as being very imprudent to risk so much with an Indian.  Most gratified and happy was I then to learn from the hunter that he had sufficient to liquidate the debt, and nearly as much more to trade.  On making out his requisition for the latter purpose, it was found that four sleds at least would be required for the transport of all the property.  To employ this number in one direction, however, would leave my neighbour at liberty to prosecute his views in another quarter without the necessary attendance.  Still, I determined on risking a point, and securing at all hazards the valuable prize now offered.  Obtaining a piece at the sacrifice of a pawn is considered good play.

I proceeded accordingly with the Indian, accompanied by four men, all with heavily laden sleds, with a pack of goods strapped over my shoulders weighing eighty pounds.  Macdonell did not follow, as the Indian gave him no encouragement.  We reached the Indian’s lodge on the eleventh day from the post, when the abundant display of furs I beheld gave assurance of being amply remunerated for my trip.  There were eleven packs of beaver piled upon a scaffold, besides some others, amounting to at least 600l. sterling.  My hospitable customer detained me two days with him to partake of his good cheer.  After settling accounts with him, together with payment of the sum he owed, seven of the eleven packs were placed in my possession, with which I started on my return, as proud as if I had been advanced to a share in the Company.

We arrived at the post after an absence of twenty-five days; and I was mortified to learn that my substitute had most stupidly bungled affairs.  A number of Indians had come in during my absence who were considered our best friends, and entering our hut without noticing our opponent, threw down their bundles, thereby clearly indicating, according to the usual custom, their intention of trading with one party only.  On the other hand, should they leave a bundle at the door, it shows that they intend to divide its contents between two parties.  With these particulars the interpreter’s experience rendered him perfectly well acquainted, but he “cau’d na be fasht.”

It is customary when the Indians arrive, to present each with a pipe, a plug of tobacco, and, though last, not least in their estimation, “a dram.”  The usual politesse was expected as a matter of course on this occasion.  Seeing it was not forthcoming, the Indians demanded it.  They were answered that no instructions had been left to that effect.

“Very well,” said they, “we shall soon find it elsewhere.”  And away they went.

Macdonell received them with open arms.  His reception not only induced them to trade every skin they had brought with them, but they also invited him to their camp; and he consequently returned with his own and his men’s sleds laden with furs.

I learnt all these particulars from himself; for he and I were on as good terms as the nature of our occupation and our relative positions would admit.  I was, moreover, made acquainted through him that the Indians had expressed regret at my absence, and that an immense quantity of “beaver” still remained at their camp.