31st.  Having finished all our observations here, we dropped down the stream to the place, where we had discovered the first tents.

In descending, as well as ascending the river, we saw a great number of whitefish, and many seals.  Reindeer are numerous on both shores, both in summer and winter.  All the Esquimaux declared, that this was the best provision-place in the whole country, and they consequently flock to it from all parts every summer, frequently protracting their stay during the winter.  The greater number of those we found here, purposed spending next winter in this neighbourhood.  The Esquimaux are prevented from making this place their constant residence by their fear of the land-Indians, which cause them to quit it sooner than they otherwise would wish to do.

We spared no pains to collect all the information we possibly could obtain, on every subject relating to this situation, both as to itself, and in reference to the possibility of approaching it with a ship, as likewise respecting the inhabitants of the Ungava country in general.  It appeared evident, that the place above described is the most eligible for forming a missionary-settlement.

We found it unnecessary to proceed to the Westward, by the account given us by our worthy conductor Uttakiyok, whose information hitherto we had always found correct, and confidently to be relied on.

He reported:  1.  That farther West no wood is to be found on the coast.

2.  That besides the two rivers Kangertlualuksoak and Koksoak, they knew of no place where a ship might with safety approach the land.

3.  That at this time we should probably find no inhabitants, as they had all gone into the interior to hunt reindeer.

We therefore now considered the business committed to us to be accomplished, and determined to return to Okkak, thankful to God our Saviour for the many proofs of His favour, and protection, experienced in the execution of our commission.

CHAPTER XIII.

Return to Okkak.

September 1st.—­At ten A.M. we fell down the river with the ebb-tide, and about noon anchored near its mouth.  The Esquimaux showed great attachment to us, and could hardly resolve to take a final leave.  They called after us, “Come soon again, we shall always be wishing for you.”  Several of them, and among them our friend Uttakiyok, followed us in their kayaks to the mouth of the river.

We erected here, on the promontory Kernerauyak, a board with an inscription similar to that put up at George river, but with the day of our departure inserted, viz.  Sept. 1st, instead of the day of our arrival, Aug. 7th.  The same solemnities took place as on the former occasion.  Our faithful pilot Uttakiyok, who had rendered us such important and essential services, now took leave of us, as he intends to spend the winter in this neighbourhood.  He repeated his assurance, that if we settled here, he would be the first to join us, and to turn with his whole heart to God.  Not willing to be any longer incumbered with the skin-boat, we added it to other useful articles given to Uttakiyok, as a reward for his faithful attention to us.  He was very highly gratified, and thankful for this species of remuneration.