transcript of the diary of treaty 9 commissioner samuel...

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Transcript of the diary of Treaty 9 Commissioner Samuel Stewart 1906 Transcribed by Ian Martyn & Associates 2009 Incorporating sections transcribed by Dr Janet Armstrong, Alison Gale and Christine Dernoi Transcribed from Indian Affairs RG 10, Vol. 11399 File/dossier 2 N.B. Changing the Cell properties in the tables in this document will result in the page # references being incorrect. The table for the diary entries is two cells wide: the first cell is set to a width of 6.48”, the second to 1.17”. The text position in each cell is set to Top. The paper margin is 0.3” each side. Do not change these settings.

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Page 1: Transcript of the diary of Treaty 9 Commissioner Samuel ...treaty.korkoladesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Stewarts-Diar… · Transcript of the diary of Treaty 9 Commissioner

Transcript of the diary of Treaty 9 Commissioner

Samuel Stewart

1906

Transcribed by Ian Martyn & Associates 2009 Incorporating sections transcribed by Dr Janet Armstrong, Alison Gale and Christine Dernoi

Transcribed from Indian Affairs RG 10, Vol. 11399 File/dossier 2

N.B. Changing the Cell properties in the tables in this document will result in the page # references being incorrect. The table for the diary entries is two cells wide: the first cell is set to a width of 6.48”, the second to 1.17”. The text position in each cell is set to Top. The paper margin is 0.3” each side. Do not change these settings.

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W.G. BrownPresented by Mrs J. C. White

Age 94, of 48 Gilmour St Ottawa-

Sister of the writer of this Diary WJB

Fsp

The James Bay Treaty Indians dealt with by the

Commissioners during summer of 1906

The operations of the Treaty Nine Commissioners during the season of 1906 ceased at Abitibi and owing to the absence all the most influential Indians interested in the proposed negotiations, it was found in possible to complete the business at that point. In addition to the Abitibi Indians there also remained a number comprising probably a third of the whole population of the treaty, situated at various Hudson's Bay Company’s posts North of the Height of Land and scattered along the line of the Canadian Pacific Railway as far west as Heron Bay. The treaty party for 1906 consisted of the Dominion Commissioners Mssrs D. C. Scott and S. Stewart and Ontario Commissioner Dr D. C. Macmartin, Mr Pelham Edgar of Toronto who acted as Scy. A G Meindl M. D. and Mr John Vanasse, Dominion Police Constable. Mr J. C. Rae of the Hudson's Bay Co who during the expedition of 1905 had charge of transportation, was unable to accompany the commission and Mr Parkinson, Dominion Constable, owing to promotion could not be spared. Four canoe men were engage to accompany the commission as a permanent staff, Henry Black, WJ Dunnettt, Joe Bennaway and Walter Ferris. These men proved to be thoroughly competent, and they performed the duties of their position in the most satisfactory manner. The Commissioners with Mssrs Edgar, Vanasse and Dunnett left Ottawa 22nd May, 1906, and arrived at Milltown at 8 p.m. when they were joined by Dr Meindl who had arranged for hotel accommodation for the party. 23rd May. We were ready to leave at 9:30 a.m. for Temiskaming by the Kippewa branch of the Canadian Pacific Railway. At the station we were joined by Harry Black, Joe Bennaway and Walter Ferris, so that our party was now complete. We arrived at Temiskaming at 11.15 and were in time to have our goods shipped to Liskeard

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by the small steamer ‘Temiskaming’, but we decided to wait for the more comfortable steamer ‘Meteor’ which was to leave at 4:15 p.m. We took dinner at the beautiful hotel Belhousie, which was under the management of an old Ottawa friend Freeman Daniels. His son Bert who assisted his father in the management of the hotel gave us a hearty welcome and paid us every attention whilst we remained there. The Meteor left on time and at 11 p.m. we arrived at New Liskeard. On the way we had a pleasant conversation with Mr Loudit Inspector for the Revillion Freres, and heard from him an interesting account of some of his adventures in the far north. We slept on the boat and were aroused on the morning of the 24th at an early hour, as the boat had to be got ready for an excursion party that was to be taken up the Mi[illeg] river. At 10:15 a.m. we boarded the steamer ‘Ville Marie’. with our baggage and arrived at North Temiskaming at 12 noon. Arrangements had to be made at this place for transport of our goods over the seventeen mile portage to Douglas farm, Quinze Lake. Carriers and additional men had also to be secured to convey the party to Fort Abitibi and return. Friday the 25th of May was a miserable cold day ending up with rain. During the day we secured two teams, but as this road for the [words crossed out] greater part of the seventeen miles to the farm is a very rough one, only a portion of our goods could be taken over on them. Dr Meindl and Mssrs MacMartin and Dunnett decided to go over at once before the rain would make the clay road impassable. 26 May. It rained all night ending up with a snowstorm in the morning. We succeeded in getting one more load of our goods sent off, but canoe guides were at a premium owing to the number of prospectors and others who desire to secure them to have canoes, tents &c brought over the portage. 27th. Our fourth and last load was taken over in the morning and we decided to follow before the road would become impassable. The road is one of the worst on the continent, especially after a rain storm. We knew what was before us as we had been over the road before, but it would take many trips across to reconcile us to its hills and hollows, its soft sticky clay and its long stretches of marsh. We arrived at the farm had 5:45 p.m. pretty well played out, but ready to do justice to the dinner that soon awaited us. Sleeping accommodation was at a premium at the farm, as we had been preceded by a number of prospectors, but as we had our own beds and bedding we were not so badly off. We secured rooms where we could put our beds, and so were well content. 28th May We found that one of our canoes had been so badly damaged crossing the portage that it was unfit for use. Mr. McCaig, foreman for Mr. Klock, the owner of Douglas Farm, came to our rescue and let us have the use of a large canoe left with him by one of the Government Survey parties. A big windstorm prevented our leaving notwithstanding our desire to get off for Abitibi. One party of prospectors inside a stout boat at was glad to return to the farm as the water was much too rough for navigation by canoes. 29th Wind still blowing very hard and the prospects of our being able to begin our journey up the Abitibi looked very improbable. By noon however, the wind moderated and through the kindness of Mr McCaig we were able to leave at 1 p.m. by ‘alligator’ boat ‘Trudell’ for the

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Barriér ten miles distant. The boat was going out to bring down a ‘driver’ of logs from the Barriér, where we would meet with our first portage north of the farm. Our route was up the Quinze Lake to Grassy Lake there entering Lonely River we proceeded to Barrier rapids where our goods were landed. On the way up, the boat had difficulty in picking its way through the logs that were coming down in large numbers. The river was so completely filled with logs for some distance above the rapids that it would have been impossible to get through with our canoes so we pitched out tents for the night at the head of the rapids where all our goods had been brought by the men. We had the company at this place of two young men Messrs Harman and Hamilton from Pittsburgh whom we had met at Douglas farm, and also of a party of Indians on their way to Fort Abitibi with supplies. One of these Indians we had met near the old H.B. Post on the north side of the lake on the previous year and had been provided by him with some fish in exchange for other provisions. 30th May. There was a heavy frost during the night so that water left in a basin was covered with a thick coating of ice. The logs were nearly all through by 9 a.m. so that we were able to leave at that time. We crossed Barrier Lake a distance of about fifteen miles, and ascended Lonely River about eight miles. At this point we came to a good camping ground where we decided to pitch our tents for the night at about 8 p.m. We enjoyed the run crossed Barrier Lake but Lonely River is not one regarding which one could become very enthusiastic. It is a dirty narrow stream devoid of any scenery worth mentioning. The day was all that could be desired, being warm and bright. 31st May. We were ready at 9 a.m. to resume our journey, and so proceeded on our way up the Lonely River a distance of one mile, when we came to Long Lake which we crossed a distance of twenty-six miles. The scenery on this portion of the trip was much admired. The mountains known as the Shamrock and the Singing Mountain looked very grand from the lake. We also identified old landmarks such as the one at which we had taken shelter from the snow the previous season, and further on ‘Moose Point’ where our larder had been added to much to our satisfaction. We reached Little Height of Land portage at 4:10 p.m. at 4:15 p.m. and on crossing over were just in time to witness the launching of an Alligator boat owned by our former acquaintance Beiderman. We had heard that our enterprising friend was bringing the log boat out to Lake Abitibi to be used in transporting supplies for the Transcontinental Railway. When we saw the boat and realised the portage over which it had to be brought we were inclined to agree with the almost general verdict that he had undertaken an almost impossible task. Beiderman however had no doubt as to his ultimate success and if perseverance and energy alone were required one could not but admire that he was likely to win out. It might take weeks or even months to cross the single portage such as the next one that awaited him, but the task would be accomplished at last. Beiderman has not a very good reputation so far as his business dealings with both whites and Indians are concerned but he certainly has lots of push, and energy, and has the facility of talking in a manner both childlike and bland. We next crossed a lake about

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a mile wide in company with the ‘Alligator’ and came to the ‘Big Height of Land’ where the camped for the night. The water in the lake here is unfit to use but there is fortunately a beautiful clear spring near the camping place, well-known and well patronised by those who travel the route. Wood is very scarce however, and it was with difficulty we could secure enough for cooking purposes. 1st June. Our goods had to be portaged over the long portage (one mile) and the work was interrupted by showers of rain so that it was 2:15 p.m. before we will were able to leave the north side of the portage. We had first to paddle through a marshy stretch before entering Matowegojig Lake, which we crossed a distance of two miles, then descended Snake Creek one mile when we entered the beautiful Island Lake on which we travelled about eight miles. Island Lake deserves more than a passing mention. It is a beautiful sheet of water dotted with numerous pretty islands. It requires one to know the route thoroughly to find a way among the many different passages. More than one party have lost their way on the lake, and were glad to get out safely after spending days trying one route and then another before the right passage was found. We camped at 6 p.m. at a fairly good camping ground on the top of a rather high hill, from which the outlook was really beautiful. Two large pike were caught were caught by a member of the party well preparations for camping were being made. Saturday 2nd June. One of our Indians caught a very large pike before breakfast which was added to the bill of fare. We left our camping ground at 8:30 and proceeded towards the ‘three carrying places’ distant about three miles. The day was beautiful and warm and every one of the party were in the best of spirits. We arrived at the first of the carrying places at 9:15. As the name indicates the three carrying places are three rapids with only a couple of acres between each. The baggage had to be portaged here but two of our young Indians ran the last of the rapids with the canoes at the risk of their lives. One of the canoes suffered considerably by reason of the recklessness, so that it took considerable time to repair it. We took lunch at the foot of the third rapid at 12 noon while the Indians repaired the canoe. Leaving the portage at 2 p.m. we descended the river a distance of two miles to Steep Rock rapid which we reached at 4 p.m. The afternoon was very sultry, and just before reaching Steep Rock a sudden squall struck us. This was followed by a heavy shower of rain. We had fortunately time to land and cover up goods before the rain came on. The shower quickly passed over and we continue the descent of the river to its outlet into LakeAjotawaka on Sapper Lake about three and one half miles. Reaching an old camping ground about one half mile up the lake we camped for the night at 6 p.m.. Sunday, June 3rd. The drumming of a Partridge close to tents served the purpose of the an alarm clock to waken us in the early morning. We however did not break camp but observed Sunday as a day of rest. We spent a very pleasant day in the woods, although our pleasure was somewhat marred by the attention paid us by the black flies and mosquitoes which made their first such appearance at this place. The evening was cool enough to make a campfire agreeable and as we had plenty of material

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we had a fine large one which we sat around until about 10 p.m. 4th June. The morning cloudy and warm but we were hopeful that the rain would keep off until after we would reach the post, about sixteen miles distant from our camping place. We first crossed Agotamakami Lake with numerous islands to Abitibi River, where we encountered the ‘Dancing Rapids’, which necessitated a portage of about 100 feet. We then followed the river about seven miles when we reached Abitibi Lake on which, about three miles across, is the Hudson's Bay Co. post. On arriving at the post at 2.50 PM. and were greeted with a fusillade of shots from guns and revolvers fired by the Indians of both the Inds. of the Hudson's Bay Co. and the Revellion Freres as well as by our friends Harman and Hamilton who had reached the post a day ahead of us. We also received a hearty welcome from Messrs Drever, MacKenzie, Rich and Johnson, the latter of whom had just arrived to become one of the assistants at the post. We had a couple of hours rain before we arrived and it continued to rain steadily all afternoon. 5th June We had been informed that a large number of of [sic] the Indians had not yet arrived at the post, but that they were expected within the next few hours. It was therefore decided to defer action regarding the treaty for a short time. The rain continued all day so that we were glad to be under shelter. The doctor secured an office and at once began to give his professional services to those requiring medical treatment and medicines. He and his assistant, Mr. Dunnet were kept busily engaged all day. The afternoon and evening were so cold that we were glad to put up our stove in the tent. Mr Drever paid us a long visit and entertained us with stories of his experience with Indians in various sections of the country. 6th June Weather bright and warm. A large number of Indians arrived during the day, and arrangements were made for meeting with their principal men in the afternoon of the the [sic] 7th. Meanwhile the doctor was kept busily engaged giving medical advice and medicines. During the morning we paid a visit to the Revellion Bros. establishment and had a pleasant talk with Mr. Zimmerman the clerk in charge. We spent a pleasant afternoon and evening viewing the sites in and around the post, and hearing from Mr Drever an account of the manners and customs of the Indians. The view of the late at night was very beautiful. The night was bright and clear and, as the moon was almost at the full, the many canoes on the lake with their occupants engaged in putting out their fishing nets could be plainly seen. 7th June. The heavy rain with a strong East wind made the day the very unpleasant one. The looked for Indians having now arrived the meeting with representative Indians was held in the H.B. Co. house at 2.30 P.M. It was believed that some difficulty would be experienced at this place in negotiating the treaty. The post is situated a few miles within the Province of Quebec, and the majority of the Indians who trade there belong to that Province. It was natural for the Indians to conclude that, as it was the Dominion Government and not the Provincial Government that was negotiating the treaty, no distinction would be made between those hunting in Ontario and those hunting in Quebec. The Commissioners had, however, to state that they had no authority to treat with the Quebec Indians, and that the conference in regard to the treaty could only be held with those whose hunting grounds are in the Province of Ontario. The Quebec

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Indians were, however, given to understand that a conference would be held with them later, and that upon their signifying where they desired to have a reserve set apart for them, the government would undertake to secure, if possible, the land required by them at the place designated. The conference with the Ontario Indians proved to be highly satisfactory. When the terms of the treaty were fully explained to them through Mr. George Drever, who has a mastery of several Indian dialects, Louis McDougall Jr., one of the principal men of the band, stated that they were satisfied with the conditions offered and were willing to faithfully carry out the provisions of the treaty. They would also rely upon the Government keeping its promises [with] them. The band hoped that the reserve to be set apart for them would include as great an extent of lake frontage as possible. The other Indians being asked whether they were all of like mind with the spokesman in regard to the treaty, replied that they were, and that they were willing that representatives of the band should sign for them at once. The treaty was accordingly signed by the Commissioners and representative Indians, as well as by several witnesses who were present at the conference. Owing to the day being very wet, it was decided to postpone the payments of the gratuity until the 8th. 8th Very high wind. Payments of annuities were begun at 10 A.M. and continued till noon, 65 in all being paid. Great care had to be taken in making the payments that only those Indians whose hunting grounds are in Ontario should have their names placed on the list. This duty, the Commissioners felt confident, was successfully accomplished. Following the payments an election of a Chief and Councillors was held, which resulted in Louis McDougall Jr. being elected as Chief and and [sic] Michael Penatouche and Andrew McDougall as Councillors. Towards evening the Ontario Chief and Councillors met the Commissioners and a decision was come to regarding the reserve the Indians desired to have located for them, and were informed that their wishes would be given due consideration. At 3 P.M. a conference was held with the Quebec Indians. They stated that they had selected Isha Nychenny for their Chief, and John Kishtabish and John George Cutuche as Councillors. They also informed the Commissioners of the locality where they desired to have a reserve set apart for them, and were informed that an effort would be made to secure the land desired by them. The Chief was presented with a flag and a pipe and some tobacco were presented to the Chief and to each of the Councillors. The usual material for providing a feast for all the Indians was obtained from Mr. Drever, and preparations for this event were in evidence during the day. The Ontario Chief was presented with a flag and a copy of the Treaty during the evening. The doctor and his assistant were kept the busy doing our stay at the post. All manner of illness came under attention, every head of family feeling it to be a duty to secure some medical attention for[illeg] when the opportunity offered. One old woman applied for medicine and when enquiries were made as to what her trouble was she stated that she was alone in the world and required some medicine to cure lonesomeness. 9th June A few more payments were made in the morning to Indians who had just arrived and this concluded the business of the Commissioners at this place. Preparations for departure were therefore made, and at 10 a.m. we were ready to proceed on our journey. We therefore

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said goodbye to our friends Mssrs Drever, Mackenzie and Rich and Johnson of the Hudson's Bay Co. and to Mssrs Boisseneau and Blais of Revellion Freres. Both the H B Co. and Revellion people gave us a great send off by firing of guns until we had almost disappeared from view around the end of the lake. We arrived at the Dancing Portage at 12:20 where we took lunch. Leaving the place at 2:20 we crossed Ajootagami or Dogbone Lake and were compelled to land at Dogbone Point owing to a very heavy shower of rain. Leaving the point we reached our old camping ground at 6.00 p.m. where we camped for the night. Black flies had been very bad during the day and they continued to annoy us during the night. 10th Very heavy rain all night and still raining in the morning. We however broke camp about 8 a.m. in a shower of rain. A high wind rid us of the mosquitoes and flies so that the storm was not an unmitigated evil. The weather cleared about 10:30 much to our satisfaction. As there was a strong favorable wind we made good progress. We reached Steep Rock portage at 10:45, then ascended the river about 10 miles to the ‘Three Carrying Places’ and camped at 6 p.m. on a hill on Island Lake. During the afternoon and evening there was a cold north wind. This led to having a fire built in front of one tent with the result that the fire ran along the ground and set fire to the front of the larger tent which was badly burned before the flames could be extinguished. The weather was so cold and unpleasant that we were glad to retire early. 11th. Morning clear and bright. Left camp at 8:30 and crossed Island Lake, 5 miles, ascended a Snake Creek 1 mile, crossed Matangogig Lake 2 miles, and arrived at Big Height of Land at 11 a.m. While the goods were being portaged lunch was prepared at the south landing. There we found that Beiderman’s boat had made some progress on the way over the portage, but the work had been stopped temporarily awaiting the arrival of more men and supplies sent for to Abitibi. Just as lunch was ready two prospectors arrived at the portage and informed us that they had at the request of the postmaster at Temiskaming brought up a bunch of letters for our party. While we were glad to get the letters we could not but realise that it was altogether too much risk for the postmaster to have taken, as we might readily have passed the prospectors on Island Lake and thus missed getting mail. After lunch we proceeded on our way and as the wind was favorable we had a delightful run down Long Lake for about seventeen miles, keeping on our way until 7 p.m.. 12th June. Broke camp at 8 a.m. Weather again fine and wind fair sailed through the narrows and down Long Lake eight miles, down Lonely River and crossed Barrier Lake. Reached the Barrier at 3:20. Here after the goods were portaged over to Barrier river six young Indians ran the rapids in the canoes, a very dangerous and difficult undertaking. With sails set we made splendid progress arriving at Klocks at about 6:15. Where we found letters and papers awaiting us, and we were soon busily engaged on reading the news from the home folk. 13th. Loaded all our baggage on three wagons, leaving only our canoes to be brought over later.

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Left Klocks at 6:30 a.m. and arrived at North Temiskaming at 12:30 weary and tired with the awful portage. Took lunch at the hotel and at 1:30 boarded Steamer Jubilee for Haileybury where we arrived at 4:30. We found that town as lively as on our former visit, being full of miners and prospectors. The four hotels were all pretty well crowded, but we were successful in getting accommodation at the ‘Attorney’ a new hotel kept by a friend of our doctor. 14th June. A beautiful warm day. Left at 1:15 p.m. by Temiskaming and Northern Railway arriving at Latchford at 2:10. All the stations along the route were thronged with miners and prospectors. All ranks and conditions of men from all parts of the world were to be seen and heard, the chief topics of conversation being mines and minerals. We had a view of some of the mines in the vicinity of Cobalt and nearly all the members of our party became more or less interested in the subject that was causing so much excitement in the district. We arrived at Latchford at 2:10 p.m. This town has a very new appearance indeed. It [illeg] of three sawmills which give employment to a good many men. The houses are mere rough board sheds or log shanties. Some of these shacks or shanties had been given very pretentious names. There is one having the inscription ‘Grand Central Restaurant’ another little shed has a sign announcing to the public that all miners, prospectors and lumbermen’s supplies can be had within. Indeed every shack is a place of business of some kind or other. At Latchford we had our baggage carted to a point on the Montreal River, about one mile from the station. Mr. Taylor, district representative[?] of the H.B. Co. was on hand to render us any assistance necessary. He had secured a crew of eleven Indians for us, five from Temagami and six from Matachewan. He also supplied us with two birch bark canoes and two Peterboroughs, but before these were ready it was too late to start on the crossing. We therefore had our tents pitched beside those of some prospectors, on the bank of the river. The mosquitoes gave is a very hearty welcome, their attentions being persistent and continuous. Our tents, luggage, and the members of our party appeared to create a good deal of curiosity among the people of the village as many of them paid us a visit during the evening. 15th June. Left Latchford at 9:30 a.m. the day was very hot and the flies very numerous. We ascended Bay Lake on Montreal River seven miles, then up the river two miles to the foot of Pork Rapids. Here the canoes had to be lightened, one half of a load of each canoe being portaged to the head of the rapid, while the other half was poled up in the canoes, a distance of about a 1/4 of a mile. We took lunch at the head of the rapid, but with very little comfort as the mosquitoes and flies were there in millions. Proceeding on our journey we passed eight miles further up the mouth of the Temagami River. At 5:45 we pitched our tents on the west side of the river 25 miles from Latchford. The mosquitoes were so thick that this place there we were compelled to keep as near our smudge as possible. The day had been very hot, but towards evening the clouds began to gather, and about 9 P M. it began came on to rain. During the day we had met with several parties of prospectors, all of whom were warned us

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that it would be impossible to go up the river owing to the black flies and mosquitoes being so numerous. 16th June. Another oppressively hot day with indications of a thunderstorm. We left [illeg line] ascended the river some nine miles to Curve rapids where the canoes were poled up while the other members of the party walked to the head. Three miles above we landed at the foot of Round Lake rapids where everything had to be portaged about 300 yards. About 10 o'clock we were overtaken by a very heavy shower, which lasted for about an hour, there not being a breath of wind. The mosquitoes and black flies took full advantage of our position driving us nearly distracted with their attentions. The rain getting up somewhat we continued our journey to Mountain Lake. It looked for a time as if we would not be able to proceed far as we were threatened with a big wind storm. However we crossed Mountain Lake about two miles and crossing to a good camping ground close to the residence of one of our Indians, we concluded to end our travels for the time. Our tents were therefore pitched at 4:30 p.m. about 15 miles from where we left in the morning. Saturday 17th June. Spent the day in camp. The weather was extremely hot and the flies something terrible. Those of us who had mosquito nets were glad to wear them. The camp fires were also found to be of great service and good use was made of them. 18th June. Left camp at 8:40 a.m. ascended the [illeg line] and entered Elk Lake which we crossed eight miles. We next ascended the river about 10 miles to the foot of Indian rapids. Here everything had to be portaged a distance of about a quarter of a mile. On the portage we found the black flies awaiting us in myriads and they made us pay toll before leaving them. One of our half breed paddlers on being asked whether he ever knew the mosquitoes and flies to be worse, replied ‘Mr I never did and then added ‘they could not be worse, there would not be room for any more’. After loading our canoes we ascended the river for about two miles and coming to a good camping ground we put up at tents for the night shortly after 6 p.m. 19th June. Owing to the mosquitoes here, so numerous in the tents it was impossible to stay there. We were glad to take a hurries meal and make a quick departure in the hope of getting away from [illeg] which must have equalled that through which [illeg] had to pass. The current at this part of the river is very strong and necessitated polling. The men had to make a big fight for every inch of the way. A mile and a half up the river we passed the outlet of Forks River. A mile or so further up we discovered a man on the west shore who informed us he had been trying unsuccessfully for a couple of days to get up the rapids with his canoe, which contained supplies for a party of prospectors awaiting him above Fort Matachewan. We helped him out by putting one of our Indians into his canoe to assist him in navigating the rough water. About seven miles further up we came to Fox rapids and five miles above them we landed at the foot of Matachewan rapids which the Inds poled while we crossed the portage a distance of a 1/4 of a mile. As we were now how about a mile and half from Fort Matachewan we put up our flags on the canoes and came into the post with the canoes abreast at 5:35 p.m. As we drew near to the Fort, the H.B. Co. flag was run up and the Indians belonging to the

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post hurried up on the shores and fired off their guns to give us a welcome. On landing we were welcomed by Mr. Lafrican, H.B. Co. agent, while the Indians, old and young, male and female, formed in two lines through which we had to pass and shake each one by the hand as we went along to the head of the hill where our tents were to be pitched. Fort Matachewan is very nicely situated on the slope of a hill, commanding a fine view of the river and the surrounding country. The Indian population were remarkably clean and tidy. They nominally belong to the Roman Catholic Church, but as they are seldom visited by a missionary they know very little about the religion they profess. Immorality is said to prevail to a large extent, and in making payment of annuity we learned that many of the unmarried women had large families for whom they asked to be paid annuities. The Indians here, as indeed at all the places we visited, are fond of pet animals. In visiting the tents we saw a tame beaver, six foxes, and a hawk. Fort Matachewan itself is anything but a pretentious place. The village consists of but three log houses, namely the H.B. Store, Mr. Lafrican's house and a storehouse and workshop combined. For several months in the year, there is no other family residing at the post but that of Mr. Lafrican. There are about forty families in the band trading at this post. 20th June. The Commissioners were occupied in preparing the paylists in the forenoon, and in the afternoon met the Chief and principal men of the band in the storehouse. The usual explanations of the terms of the treaty were made, Walter Ferries acting as interpreter. Michel Baptiste replied for the band and said that they were all perfectly satisfied with the terms of the treaty. Four of the Indians then signed for the band, and their signatures were duly witnessed. [illegible lines] The usual preparations were made for the feast, and in the evening a dance was held at which old and young appeared to enjoy themselves greatly. 21st June In the morning a meeting of the Indians was held at which Michel Baptiste was elected Chief. At the meeting the location where they desired to have their reserve set apart was agreed upon. The place named was at Turtle Lake four miles east of Fort Matachewan. At noon the feast was held and was apparently much enjoyed. In the afternoon payment of gratuities were made in the storehouse, and the flag was presented to the Chief. Dr Meindl and his assistant had meanwhile been kept busy attending to the sick. The doctor reported that at this post he noticed a marked absence of pulmonary troubles. 22nd. Arrangements had been made for leaving Matachewan early in the morning, but a heavy rain storm prevented us doing so before half past four in the afternoon. Although the weather looked far from settled, we decided to leave at that time and therefore say goodbye to our friends at the post. This latter was quite an undertaking as every Indian present old and young, desired to shake hands with every member of our party. The female members of the population were in no way behind in the handshaking business and it was evident that not one of them could be overlooked without giving offence. The usual firing of guns also took place as our canoes left the wharf, and this was continued until we were far out on the river. Shortly after leaving the post the rain began to come down in torrents, but as we were soon as wet as men could be we decided to keep right on.

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At 7 p.m. we reached one of the riverside camping grounds about 15 miles from Matachewan: and here we decided to camp for the night.. The flies had been pretty bad at the post, but at the campground they evidently gathered from far and wide to give us a warm reception. 23 June. The rain continued doing most of the night and in the morning the weather looked very unsettled. About 10.15 there were indications of fair weather and we decided to proceed on our journey down the Montréal River. The swift current which had caused is so much hard work going up now helped is greatly. Reaching Indian Falls after having descended quite a series of rapids, the Indians portaged all the luggage to the foot of the rapids about a quarter of a mile. The canoes were carried to the first of the falls from where the Indians ran them down the rapids. After reloading we descended the river some ten or twelve miles and crossed Elk Lake about eight miles, and then about a mile further on we reached her campground of the previous Sunday. There not being another suitable camping place within reasonable distance we again occupied the grounds here, close to the residence of one of our Indians ‘Round Eyes’ by name and who here left us his services being no longer required. The sky had been cloudy most of the afternoon, the sun appearing from time to time, while there were also occasional showers. We had also a headwind to contend with most of the day, so that this part of her journey was not a very pleasant one. [illeg line] crossed the Mountain Lake, descended the river shooting the Round Lake rapids, portaging part of the stuff, ran Curve Rapids, crossed Indian Lake and descended The Montréal River to the junction of the Temagami. We now proceeded up the latter river to Mattawapika Falls which we reached at 3:30 p.m. Just before reaching Mattawapika Falls we saw on our right a clearance with farm buildings. This place we were informed was owned by Mr James Mowat, the former H. B. Co. trader, who now works a small farm. The clearance for hundreds of years back has been used for a general meeting place for the Indians travelling between Fort Matachewan, Lake Temagami and Temiskaming, it being the junction point of their routes. In times gone by an Indian village was situated here, and to this day numbers of stone arrowheads, sheets of white mica, and lumps of pure plumbago are discovered, denoting the existence at one time of an extensive workshop. Many Indian graves are found here also and one skeleton found nearby contained an arrow head fastened firmly in the back bone which showed that some Indian had met a violent death. A little above Mowatt's house may still be seen shallow pits or trenches where the Iroquois lay in ambush for their enemies the Ojibways, as they passed down the river on their way to the trading posts. Mattawapika Falls is about a quarter of a mile from the mouth of the River. The fall which is about thirty feet high is a very imposing sight. The fall is divided by an island, and the surrounding scenery is also quite picturesque. Our goods had all to be portaged about 200 yards, and when this was accomplished eight of our crew bade us goodbye and left with one of the canoes for Latchford in order to bring up goods for the Matachewan post. Before leaving the Montréal River it may be said that it is not so picturesque as some of the other rivers we had been on. Its shores are flat and bordered for the most part with alders or cedars close to the water's edge rendering the shore almost inaccessible. The waters are deep but contained very few fish. The water is good to drink but of a blue

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black color. Here and there along the shores houses are to be seen which are owned by Indians, firerangers or lumbermen. The timber along the shore is principally red pine, white birch, cedar, cyprus and spruce. There is also a considerable quantity of balsam and poplar. After loading our canoes we reached the Mattawapika Lake about three miles and pitched our tents just below the narrows on the East side of the lake at 5:30 p.m. Good camping places are scarce at this section of the river as the shores are very rocky and abrupt. It was with difficulty that the tents were put up as there was very little soil on the rocks into which to drive the pegs. The difficulty was overcome by cutting down trees, one of which was placed on each side of the tent and the strings were then fastened to them. The sky was cloudy all day with little or no wind but there was no rain except in the early hours of the morning. We covered a distance of about twenty-six miles rather more than the regulation Sabbath day's journey. 25th of June. We left camp at 8:45 crossed the narrows of Mattawapika Lake and into the waters of Lady Evelyn Lake which are shallow for several miles but very clear. After sending about a mile we saw a deer on the east side, and a moose on the west side. About a mile further on we saw another moose on the east side, wading in a marsh. He followed us along the shore for some distance, looking at us once in a while but evidently appearing to think that we were too far away to do him any harm. A few miles further on we caught sight of a cow moose with two calves. These we got so near that photos were taken of them, but at rather too greater distance to have the moose show up very distinctly in the picture. We then resumed our journey towards Lady Evelyn Falls through a labyrinth of beautiful islands which with rugged rocky shores well covered with trees of every shade of green made a scene of almost unrivalled splendour. Maple Mountain rising majestically about 6000 feet above the sea level, added greatly to the beauty of the picture. In addition to all this there was the knowledge that the lakes and rivers that we were travelling over are well stocked with fish and that the woods are recognized all over the continent as the sportsman's paradise. Travelling through such a district on a perfect June day it might well be asked what could add to our enjoyment. After travelling through beauty spots a distance of nineteen miles we landed at the foot of Lady Evelyn Falls while the crew portaged our dunnage and canoes to the head a distance of some three hundred yards. Dr Meindl and Professor Edgar improved the opportunity while the goods were being brought over by fishing at the foot of the falls. In a short time they secured thirteen fine pickerel and were very loath to leave off when the announcement was made that the canoes were again loaded. From the head of the falls the waters take the name of Diamond Lake over which we travelled a distance of ten miles, and then landed on an island at 6:25 p.m. and put up our tents for the night twenty one miles from our last camping ground. 26th June. We left camp at 9:25 a.m. and proceeded to the south side of Diamond Lake a distance of about ten miles, landed at the foot of ‘Sharp Rock Portage’ over which our goods had to be portaged a quarter of a mile. When that was accomplished we launched our canoes on the

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famous Lake Temogami and Indian name meaning ‘deep water’. We then travelled southward passing the new Lady Evelyn hotel then in course of construction by [illeg] property of the [illeg] at Temogami station. From then on we realized that we were nearing the civilisation. First there were the [illeg] men working on the river [illeg] and the steam tug which was being used in bringing the men to and from Temagami station, and also on bringing supplies from the same point. Next we passed the big camp of American students where we received a salute as we passed. Near the same place we met a steamer loaded with a pleasure party viewing the scenery and evidently having a good time. Fifteen miles distance from where we entered the lake we came to Bear Island the home of our Indian guides, and where the Hudson's Bay post is situated. Here we landed to get some supplies after which we crossed to an island adjacent to Bear Island where we camped about seventeen miles from our camping grounds of the previous night. Lake Temogami is noted for the beauty of the scenery. Its waters cover in an area of about 100 square miles and are dotted with fourteen hundred and sixty islands covered with white and golden birch and red and white pine. Several of the islands a rented to private parties or to clubs at $20 per acre per year. Some of the islands have quite an area, one of them being thirteen and a half miles in circumference. They are all included in the five hundred and fifty thousand square miles of the Ontario forest reserve. The waters of the lake a very clear so that although very deep one can see the bottom of the river for a long distance from the shore. Fish, especially bass, pickerel and trout, are caught in large numbers by both Indians and tourists. There is quite a settlement around the H B Co post on Bear Island, the population consisting of Indians with the exception of the fire ranger and the H B Co officials and a few settlers. There is an Indian school on the island maintained by the Indian Dept. The school was visited on the 27th June by the Commissioners and Mr Edgar. About twenty pupils were present, who at the request of Ms Doherty in the teacher, underwent an examination by the Commissioners in reading and arithmetic, and acquitted themselves very creditably. There [sic] copybooks will also show and gave proof of advancement in writing. The classroom was in the rear end of the R.C. church building, and hardly suitable for the purpose. School is hailed from the beginning of June to the 31st October. On the morning of the 27th Dr Meindl left by Steamer Bobs for Temogami, as it was necessary for him to go on to Mattewa to restock his medical chest. He was then to join us at Biscotasing. 28th June. Arrangements were made for leaving for Temogami station. Supplies required were purchased and notice was given to have the boat call for us and our goods on the morning of the 29th. The Temogami men, five in number, were paid off and left for their homes on Bear Island. Friday 29th June. We were up early to pack our goods for the shipment on the steamer which was to call for us at 9:45 am. We bade goodbye to our island home at 10 a.m. with many regrets. We had been favoured with beautiful weather while here, the flies and mosquitoes had troubled us very little and our surroundings [illeg] all that could be desired. We also parted without Temogami men with regret as they had given us [illeg]. We had a pleasant sail to Temogami station which was reached at 11:45 a.m. We took dinner at the Ronoceo hotel, and at 3:00 p.m. boarded the southbound Temiskaming and Northern Ontario railway train for North Bay, where we arrived at 6.00 p.m. Here we put up for the

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night at the Queens Hotel. The morning had been brightened and fine, but during the afternoon and evening we were favored with a few showers. We found quite a number of letters and papers awaiting us at North Bay, and all the members of the party were soon engrossed in reading the home news. At North Bay we realised that we were once more within a civilised district. In the woods we had quietness and peace at night. At North Bay we were favored with music and dancing most of the night and at times were inclined to wish that we were once more in the wilderness. 30th June. We boarded the C.P.R. train at 10:45 it being 55 minutes late, and arrived at Biscotasing about 340 miles west of Ottawa at 4.00 p.m. and put up our tents in [the] rear of the H B Co store. To our regret we found that the sandflies were also much at home at the place and prepared to give us a warm reception. Mr Armstrong of the H B Co and his assistant showed us every attention both in locating our tents and in giving us the use of their office and storeroom. The weather very unsettled all day with occasional storms of rain until the evening. 1st July. Sunday. We found that we were located in a very noisy place, as we were situated close to the railway track, over which trains passed very frequently during the night. Added to this was the noise made by a crowd of fellows who had secured more whisky than was good for them. A row was the result which was carried on close to our tents and these two combined to keep us awake a considerable part of the night. Sunday was a beautiful day, and the flies were not so troublesome as they had been so that we passed a pleasant useful day. Monday 2nd July. This day was observed as a holiday in the village. The H B Co store was closed, and Mr Armstrong and family went off in their gasoline yacht for a sail on the lake. In the evening he box social was held in aid of the friends of the village inter-denominational school. At the conclusion of the sale of the boxes of eatables, which brought prices varying from one dollar to six dollars, refreshments were served in the schoolroom. A dancing platform had been erected close to the building and that was occupied with dancers until after midnight. We had been joined early in me afternoon by Dr Meindl who was again in a position to attend to the ailments of the Indians. 3rd July. We learnt from Mr Miller in charge of the post at Mattagami who had come to meet us, that the crew from that place would not arrive until sometime during the afternoon. We therefore had the day in which to write letters and visit points in the vicinity of Bisco. We spent a pleasant hour in the saw mill of Booth and Shannon, and found it well up to date. The average cut of the mill is about eight hundred logs per day. 4th July. Our men having arrived, we left Bisco at 9:00 a.m. our fleet consisted of four Peterborough canoes and one large birch bark canoe. One crew numbered eighteen men, fifteen from Mattagami and our three Mattawa men . While our men sent supplies went forward in the canoes the rest of the party was, through the kindness of Mr Armstrong, taken in his yacht to the first portage six miles up Bisco Lake. At this portage we said goodbye for a time to Mr Armstrong, Mr Miller, who is going by a shorter but more difficult route, and Mr Kenneth G. Ross, Forest Ranger whom we had met at Bisco.

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Our second portage was occasioned by the railway and measured only about half a mile distant from the first portage. On the bank we saw a deer quietly feeding and it allowed us to approach within about fifty yards when it concluded that its wisest course was to take to the woods, which it did at considerable speed. Our next portage was reached at 11:30 where we took lunch. The walk of a mile and a quarter brought us to a narrow and crooked creek which empties into the Spanish River quarter of a mile further on. We descended the river about 3/4 of a mile and landed at the head of a third portage about a quarter of a mile long. Three miles further down we landed at the head of the fourth portage. The crew portaged a portion of the goods at this place but a ran the balance and the canoes down the rapids. Another 1/4 of a mile brought us to the fifth portage fifty or sixty yards long, where again a portion of the goods were run down in the canoes. About two miles farther down we saw a moose feeding on the east side of the river and it allowed us to come within speaking distance before noticing us. Another two miles brought us to portage No. 6 where we pitched our tents for the night at 6:00 p.m. about sixteen miles from Bisco. The weather was fine and bright all day but the evening was quite chilly. 5th July. A beautiful bright day. The first duty of the morning was to have the goods and canoes carried across the portage which is only about 700 yards long . By 7:15 this duty was completed and we were ready to resume our journey. We had a short run of about four acres [?] when we reached the head of another rapid, making portage No 7. This portage is over a high hill and is almost half a mile across. We then proceeded northward and ascended a branch of the Spanish River for a distance of fifteen miles. This branch of the river is called the Dam river on account of an old dam built across the forks. At the head of these waters be crossed No 8 portage, about 300 yards then over a small lake of about half a mile in width, crossed [illeg] portage about 600 yards and then came to a lake about a mile wide. Neither the waters of the lake nor of the Spanish River are good to drink. Those of the Spanish [river] are of a deep brown in color while those of the Lake have an unpleasant taste. After crossing this last lake we reached the Height of Land portage, and pitched our tents at the north end of it at 6:30 p.m. This last portage is about 1 ½ miles long so that we were about 19 miles from our previous camping place. The weather was bright and fine all day but with a north wind which during the evening made the air quite cool. The mosquitoes and blackflies gave us some attention but were not as bad as formerly. Friday 6th July. Left at 7:00 and crossed Sucker to Kapinamenaka Lake one mile, descended a shallow creek containing many boulders rendering navigation difficult. After ascending the creek a mile we entered Muskegoma Lake and decended [sic] it a distance of ten miles. We next descended another shallow creek with many boulders both in the creek and along the shore. In the course of about a mile the baggage had to be portaged in two places one portage No (1) of one hundred yards, and the other No (2) about two hundred yards. In both cases the canoes were floated down light. The creek now widened out considerably and we descended it a distance of about three miles to the head of No 13 portage. The above river retains the name of the lake, Muskegoma. After lunch we went over portage No 13 which is a mile and a half long, descended Mesmaqua Lake twelve miles and the river of same name

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five miles to the head of Fishing Rapids where we landed at 6:45 p.m. and put up our tents for the night thirty four miles from our last camping ground. The weather was very pleasant all day with a light northerly breeze. There were more mosquitoes at this camping ground men we desired for comfort but we were pretty well used to them by this time. Shortly after reaching the camp we were joined by Mr Kenneth Ross, Fire Ranger, another of his assistants and also by a young intern and his sister all on their way to Mattagami. They only waited with us long enough to take lunch and then proceeded on their way. Saturday 7th July. The night was very warm and the mosquitoes very bad. Portage No 14, one mile long was crossed, and at 8:30 we entered on Lake Mattagami and after a paddle of five miles landed at the H B Co post at 11:10 a.m. As soon as we came in sight of the post several volleys were fired by the Indians, as well as by a number of fire rangers who had come to the post owing to the Indians employed by them desiring to be present at the treaty. On landing we were given a cordial welcome by Mr Miller, who had arrived the previous day, and by Mr Ross and his assistant. We also met at the post Dr H. Goldie and his wife of Toronto who were spending their holidays at Mattagami. Dr Goldie had been giving the Indians free medical attendance and he kindly offered his service in assisting with Dr Meindl during our stay at the post. In the afternoon a meeting was held with the principal men of the band, when the terms of the treaty were fully explained to them and an opportunity given to ask any questions or to make any remarks with reference to the propositions made of them. The Indians held a conversation among themselves and then announced through Joseph Shemeket, one of their number, that they were fully satisfied with the terms of the treaty, and were prepared to have it signed by representatives of the band. The treaty was therefore at once signed and witnessed. Payments were begun and concluded in the afternoon, and preparations made for the feast. 8th. Services were held by Rev. A.M.C. Banting, who had arrived at the post on the 6th. The Indians contributed out of their gratuity a very liberal collection toward the erection of a Church at Biscotasing. During the evening the feast was held and was apparently much enjoyed by old and young. It was announced that Andrew Luke had been elected Chief, and at the feast a twelve foot Union Jack and a printed copy of the treaty were presented to him. A decision was also come to as to the location of the reserve, and thus concluded our business at this place. Owing to the good work done by Dr Goldie the services of Dr Meindl were not so much in request here as at other posts. It should have been mentioned that on Saturday night the usual dance was held at which the forest rangers took a prominent part, much to their enjoyment as well as to that of the native population. Mr James Miller, a sturdy [gentleman?], has the Indians at this post well under control. His word is law with every member of the band, and his paternal care appears to have worked for the benefit of those under his charge. The Indians had every appearance of living well, they are well dressed, clean, and evidently contented. Mattagami post is beautifully situated on a peninsula commanding a view of the lake, as well as of the surrounding country. There is a nice sandy beach along the shores of the lake, and

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the waters are all that could be desired for a bathing resort. We had delightful weather during our stay at the post the only unpleasant item being the number of black flies and mosquitoes that desired to make our acquaintance. 9th July. Our preparations for departure began at an early hour, and at 8:10 we were all ready to begin our return journey. Mr Miller is the owner of a neat little gasoline yacht and he invited several of the party to goonce in it to the first portage. Mr Ross and two of the Indian girls also came along to see us off at that place. The Indians at the post and a party of fire rangers fired off a salute as we left Mattagami. At the portage we said goodbye to Mr Miller, Mr Ross and the other members of their party. Dr Goldie and two of the fire rangers who descend to return to Biscoe accompanied us in our canoes and worked their passage very conscientiously. We had a beautiful day but the mosquitoes in black flies were very bad especially in the evening. We camped at 5:40 at the foot of portage number 13, about 23 ½ miles from Fort Mattagami just as signs of rain began to appear. It came onto rain about 6:00 p.m. and continued on into the night. 10th July. The flies were exceedingly numerous in the morning so that we were glad to leave camp at 7:20 a.m. We made good progress during the day and camped about 28 miles from where we left in the morning. To our great satisfaction, there were very few mosquitoes where we camped. 11 We were up early and ready to proceed at 6 a.m. the night has been quite cool on the air was still chilly in the morning. There was also a dense fog which however cleared away after sunrise. During the morning we saw a moose and deer and three skunks. The first two were glad to get away from us and we were glad to get safely away from the latter. After crossing the CPR embankment we [illeg line] journey north. We portaged [illeg lines] we crossed to a narrow and crooked creek leading to within a short distance of Mattagami Station where we arrived at 12.00 p.m. The day was especially hot and we were glad to take shelter in the small station house. At the station we were interested in seeing some new Grand Trunk Pacific passenger cars the first of these we had seen. All of our Mattagami crew with the exception of one man left us at this point. At 3.00 p.m. we boarded the west bound CPR train and arrived at Bisco at 3:30. 12th July. Our Flying Post Crew arrived late last night, and preparations had to be made for the trip to that place. In the afternoon we said good bye to Dr Goldie and to the two forest rangers Black and Wells. A little Indian boy, threatened with tuberculosis trouble, had been brought down by his people from Mattagama, at the request of Dr Goldie, and the little lad was taken by the doctor to be placed in the childrens’ hospital in Toronto. It was really affecting to see the parting between the little fellow and his parents. The train from the east brought in an old friend Chief Louis Espaniel of Pagmasing. Louis was attired in great splendour and his appearance was greatly admired. He had on a Caribou Skin uniform with any amount of fringe as well as pendants of goose

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bones with tips of deerskin. The jacket had pockets of red and blue cloth decorated with beads of various colours. He also wore garters similarly decorated. On his feet were a pair of Caribou moccasins with porcupine designs. He wore a wampum bandolier, and on his breast [illeg words] large [illeg words] medals. Round his waist was a gaudy sash with long fringes. Although the day was very hot Louis wore on his head an otter cap with a black curly feather descending a half circle from front to back of cap. In addition there were two eagle feathers, one on each side of the cap standing vertically and decorated with short red ribbons. Taking him all in all Louis was quite a heavy swell and he was very well aware of the fact. We left Bisco at 4.20 PM for Flying Post. Our crew consisted of our three Mattawa Indians, one from Mattagami, and twelve from Flying Post. Three of the latter were mere boys, and we had doubts of their ability to perform the services required of them. These doubts, however, were soon dispelled, as every member of the crew from Flying Post proved to be energetic, competent and obliging. Our fleet consisted of four good sized birch bark canoes. We first ascended Bisco Lake in a northwesterly direction, and travelled about ten miles when we camped on an island about 6.00 PM. 13th. We left camp at 7:00 a.m. and soon entered a creek having its outlet in a tract of drowned land. We travelled through a marsh for about two and a half miles and came to a ‘lift’ over a point of land where a dam had been constructed. About a mile further on we came to another ‘lift’ similar to the previous one. A quarter of a mile brought us to ‘Mosquito portage’ 50 yards long. Another quarter of a mile quarters to portage of about a mile in length. We next crossed Lake Arbutus to ‘Boulder’ portage which is also called Height of Land portage and is about a mile across. Both of these last portages are very rough the path being over boulders and sharp rocks. We next crossed a pond known as ‘Dismal’ about 100 feet across which brought us to Pishmakaby portage about a mile in length. [illeg lines] ….bag filled with goods hanging on a Cypress tree close to the water’s edge. These goods we were informed were the blankets and clothing belonging to two Indians, father and son, who had been drowned below the [illeg]ing rapids early in the month of June. They with two other Indians were upset from the canoe at the foot of the rapids. Two of the Indians who could not swim hung onto the canoe and came safely ashore while the father and son who could swim and attempted to reach shore in that way were both drowned. The bag of clothes was picked up shortly afterwards and taken to the point where we saw it but the Indians for some superstitious reason were averse to having anything further to do with it. The body of the father was found soon after the accident but the body of the son had not been recovered when we were there. The latter had a wife and four children living at Flying Post. After lunch we descended Crowfish Mac-a-kush-ka Lake and creek, one mile. Crossed Pine portage about six hundred yards long to Poplar or Albert Hoffman Lake which we crossed a distance of about three miles. Our next portage was ‘Money’ about 100 feet of carry and came to a creek about 3/4 of a mile in length, and then crossed Possashisagay portage about 100 yards. We next travelled about three miles to Lake Kabibitsha or Jeepusways and camped for the night, about seventeen miles from our last camping ground. This day was rather a trying one as it was very warm and the mosquitoes and flies very bad, especially on some of

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the portages. We were glad to come to an occasional spring on our travels as the water in most of the streams and lakes was not fit to drink. We passed through some rather pretty scenery especially along the lakes. 14th July. We left camp at 7.00 a.m. [illeg].. the ascent of Kabibitcha lake 6 miles, crossed No 10, Piquaskotinga portage, half a mile descended Lake Douglas Rael, 9 miles and the creek of that name one mile. This Creek is covered to such an extent with reeds and rushes as to render navigation difficult. [illeg line].. Mallard which we now crossed 3/4of a mile to another creek about a mile in length. This Creek is also grown up with reeds, and is narrow and winding. We next crossed Lake Marion 1/2 mile and descended Lake Rushburn S[illeg words] five miles to Red Rock portage about 300 yards long. The portage was necessitated by Red Rock fall. The scenery at this place is very picturesque. The beautiful fall in the high rocky hills and the green foliage formed a beautiful picture. Our canoes were next launched on Matagaming River. We had only proceeded a short distance when a deer was seen grazing near the shore, [illeg, ink blot]after being seen by those in our first canoe. Two miles from our entrance to Matagaming River we came to Cedar rapid with a short portage of about 97 yards long. Another mile and a half brought us to Smooth Rock Rapid and a portage of about 175 yards. Here a [illeg words] Diving Rapid was reached where a portage of about six hundred yards was made. Another half mile brought us to ‘Face The Hill’ portage about 275 yards long. Crossing this we came to Little Trout Creek which empties into the Matagaming river. Our next portage was only about a quarter of a mile up the creek and is known as Shallow Sand and is about 531 yards across. This brought us to Shallow Sand falls on the Matagaming. These falls are two in number and very beautiful. The falls are divided by an immense rock, one of the falls being about a hundred feet on the middle, and the other about fifteen feet. The water snakes down between two swaths of rock for about fifty feet [illeg]the noise of the fall being heard for quite a long distance. We reluctantly left the beautiful spot and proceeded through some of the forest scenery on the water. The high hills well wooded towered above us on either hand forming a picture well worth going a long distance to see. We landed about 7.00 p.m. and put up our tents for the night about twenty-nine miles from our camping point of the previous night. The weather [blot] all day had been extremely warm, a few showers in the afternoon however, called the temperature somewhat. The mosquitoes were in evidence on the portages and at the camp. 15th July Sunday. We left camp at 7.45 and crossed Lake Matagaming ten miles, and then decended [sic] Ground Hog or Kukatonche River to the Hudson's Bay post, three miles, arriving at the Fort at 11.15 AM. Before arriving at the post we came to bend in the river where there is a considerable rapid. Here the Indians informed us, it is customary to fire several shots to convince to the people at the post the approach of strangers. In order to conform to the etiquette of the place we accordingly fired the necessary salute and as a result the Indians along with Mr. McLeod, who is [in] charge of the post, were lined up on the shore to give us a welcome.

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The Indians at this post had been taught by Mr. McLeod to observe the Sabbath very strictly, and no demonstration of any kind was therefore made by them beyond their shaking hands cordially with the members of our party. The afternoon was wet and very sultry and was spent quietly by us in our tents, or in conversation with Mr. McLeod in his office. Monday 16th July There was a very heavy thunder storm during the night which one of the dogs tried to escape a taking shelter in our tent. He proved such an undesirable companion that strong measures had more than once to be used to compel him to seek other quarters. During the morning a meeting with the Indians was held, and the terms of the treaty were fully explained through Mr. McLeod who acted as interpreter. Isaac, one of the leading Indians, speaking for the band, said they thankfully accepted the benefits offered by the treaty and were willing to observe its provisions. The treaty was, therefore, duly signed and witnessed. The Indians also expressed their wishes regarding the position of their reserve, and their choice was duly noted for recommendation by the Commissioners. The Commissioners having been informed that immorality was prevalent among certain members of the band, an effort was made to impress upon the Indians the necessity for the observance of the marriage laws and the danger they would incur of punishment if offences such as had been reported were continued. Payments were made during the afternoon, and in the evening the feast was held, at which the flag was presented to Albert Black Ice, who had been chosen as Chief of the band. The inevitable dance was of course held in the evening. Dr Meindl and Mr. Dunnett were busy all day attending the sick and in vaccinating the children. 17th July. We bade goodbye to Mr McLeod and his Indians in the early morning and at 7:55 began a return journey to Biscotasing. We saw two moose the first morning and the next morning either the same two or two more and on both occasions were within a short distance of them before they took any notice of us. We had some heavy storms of wind and rain but as the wind had the effect of driving the flies away we made no complaint as to the slight discomfort experienced. Biscoe was reached at 3:30 on the afternoon of the 19th of July. 20th July. The Commissioners were engaged during the morning in paying the Indians who trade at this post, later Dr Meindl gave attention to the sick and also vaccinated the children of the place. In the afternoon we got our dunnage properly packed and at 4.10 took the train for Chapleau where we arrived at 4.10 PM [the times given so not seem possible; one must be in error]. On the train we were joined by Mr. Edmund Morris of Toronto who had been authorized to accompany us to the places still to be visited by us, to make portraits of Indian types to be disposed of to the Governments of the Dominion and of the Province. We were met on the station by Bishop Holmes, and his assistants Messrs Banting, Owens and McLeod, and also by Mr J.M. Austin, merchant who has carried on an extensive business with the Indians for many years past. These gentlemen informed us that they had secured a good camping place for us on Nebsquashing Lake, and that they had also secured a conveyance to transport our goods to the place chosen. We found the grounds selected to be

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in every way suitable for the purpose and soon had our men engaged in putting up our tents. We had decided to take our meals in one or other of the hotels in the town and had therefore sent on our cook to Missanabie where his people lived. Chapleau is a nicely laid out town with a population of about 500 or less. It boasts a public library, a R.C. Church, a Methodist Church, and is also the Cathedral town of the bishop of Moosonee. It is a divisional point of the CP Railway, and has a repair shop employing a good many mechanics and helpers. 21st July. Our tents and outfit proved to be of considerable interest to the people of the village, and we were favored with visits from many of them during the day. It was not necessary to make treaty with the Indians of Chapleau, as they belong to bands residing at Moose Factory, English River, and other points where treaty had already been made. They were however recognized as members of the bands to which they belong, and were paid the gratuity due them, after being informed as to what the acceptance of the money by them involved. Both the Ojibeways and Crees were consulted as to the locations where they desired to have reserves set apart for them, and their wishes in regard to this matter were duly noted for recommendation to the Ontario Govt. The request of the Ojibeways was for an addition to the present Indian reserve south of Chapleau, while the Crees asked for a point of land some 200 acres in extent, East of Chapleau, on the South bank of the Nebsquashing River. In the evening we were entertained by Bishop Holmes and Mrs. Holmes, at their residence. We there met Mrs Owens, Miss Quartermain and Miss Barker who with Mr. Owens were to accompany the Bishop to Moose Factory and to reside at that place as teachers and nurses. 22nd. All the members of our party went to church in the morning, some to the RC Church several to the English Church and others to the Methodist Church. The afternoon was spent very quietly and at 6.15 PM we left by the westbound train for Missinabie where we arrived at 8.15 PM and put up our tents in a field adjoining the Hudson's Bay Cos. store. Missinabie is a small village of about 150 souls, the great majority of whom are Crees or Ojibeways. The Crees live west of the C.P.R. track, while the Ojibeways are all on the East side. There are two stores in the village, both situated on the East side of the line. One of these stores is kept by the H.B. Co. and the other by their rivals the Revillion Freres. There is no hotel or saloon, but we were soon made aware that the Indians experienced no difficulty in getting intoxicants. A favorite drink with them is one known as "John Bull Bitters" which purports to cure almost every known disease. The Commissioners took this matter in hand, and their actions, it is to be hoped, will be attended with beneficial results. 23rd July. Our crew from New Brunswick House had not arrived and we were consequently unable to leave on this date. Bishop Holmes and the members of his party came in on the morning train, and his men from Moose Factory having been waiting here for several days they decided not to wait for us but to begin their journey for Moose Factory by way of the Missanabie river. The men from Brunswick House arrived about 7 p.m. with one large birch bark canoe 24th July. It rained during the greater part of the night and was still raining in the morning at 7 a.m. It was necessary for us to procure additional canoes and an additional quantity of provisions. Two Peterboroughs were obtained from the HB Co and we also engaged an old friend Joe

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Mongoose who had been employed by members of the party on previous occasions. It should here be mentioned that one of the men who came from the Bishop was our old friend Daniel Moscone who had acted as Cook for our mess in 1905. One preparations were not complete until noon when we left for our trip up the Missanabie river. After proceeding about two miles we landed for lunch and found that we were in the midst of a blackberry patch where we had little difficulty in filling several dishes with that fruit. These made a pleasant addition to our larder and were much appreciated. While resuming a journey we found that there was a good fair wind, so that sails were improvised and we had a very enjoyable [blot] all afternoon. Shortly after 6 p.m. there were indications of a storm, and we had barely time to land and have our tents put up when a heavy shower of rain came on. The mosquitoes were very bad during the evening. 25th July. We left camp at 7 a.m. and finished the descent of Crooked Lake about seven miles, then portaged over Missanabie Lake portage and entered Missanabie Lake. Here we had again a strong fair winds so that sails were put up and we sped up the lake and had a most enjoyable sail a distance of about twenty-six miles to Brunswick House. Lake Missinabie is of considerable extent, and is dotted with with [sic] a number of beautiful islands. The shores of the lake rise some thirty or forty feet above the water and are well wooded with a second growth of white birch, poplar, balsam and Jack pine. At Brunswick, which was reached at 4 PM, we were welcomed by Mr. James G. Christie of the H.B. Co., his niece Miss Grace McTavish, who was paying a visit here, and Bishop Holmes and his party. New Brunswick House is beautifully situated at the northern end of the lake, and the outlook from the post is delightful. Bishop Holmes was anxious to be present at the making of the treaty, and the Indians were therefore assembled in the evening and the terms of the treaty explained to them. On being asked whether they had any questions to ask or any remarks to make, they replied through Mr. Christie that they were perfectly satisfied with what they were to receive under the treaty, and were willing to sign at once. The signatures of the Commissioners and of five of the leading men were, therefore, affixed to the treaty, as well as that of six witnesses. It should have been mentioned that with the crew from Brunswick there was a young Indian man and a young girl who had come to Missinabie for the purpose of being united in matrimony by Bishop Holmes. As the bishop had however left before their arrival the marriage had of necessity to be postponed. The ceremony took place shortly after our arrival at the post, and we were somewhat amused to see that the contracting parties immediately went each their own way, and were rarely seen together during the time we remained at the post. The Indians had their usual dance in the evening, while the members of our party, as well as Bishop Holmes and his party were entertained by Mr and Mrs Christie and Miss McTavish. A Mr. McGrath, in charge of a Grand Trunk survey party was also present. 26th July A portion of the forenoon was occupied in paying gratuity to about 100 Indians. The election for a Chief was also held resulting in the choice of Alex Peekotay, to whom a flag and a copy of the treaty were presented at the feast held in the evening. Bishop Holmes had intended leaving for Moose Factory shortly after noon but a rainstorm

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prevented his doing so. We spent another pleasant evening with Mr and Mrs Christie and family while the Indians indulged in a dance which they kept up till well on towards the morning. 27th July We had a conference with the Indians relative to a reserve to be set apart for them and a satisfactory decision was come to in regard thereto. Bishop Holmes and his party left early in the morning for Moose. The doctor was kept busy attending to those requiring medical treatment, and Mr Morris was busily engaged in completing sketches made by him of several of the Indians. 28th. Our duty is having concluded we said goodbye to our friends at Brunswick and at 7:30 a.m. we left for Missanabie. The Indians were as usual lined up on the shore to give us a send off and as we left the wharf several volleys were fired by them. We travelled about thirty three miles and camped at 5:30 at a very pretty spot on the lake. 29th. A beautiful bright day. As we were preparing for breakfast a bear and cub were seen in swimming across the lake five or six hundred yards from our camp. At once the Indians jumped into a canoe and gave chase but both bear and cub got to land just ahead of the canoe and soon made their escape into the woods. We left camp at 9:40 a.m. finished the ascent of Crooked Lake and went over the portage of that name in to Dog Lake. About four miles further on we landed on an island for lunch and found we were in the midst of a blueberry garden to which we paid [blot] attention. Leaving the island after lunch we arrived at Missanabie at 3:40 p.m. and were glad to find letters and papers awaiting us. 30th July The Commissioners had a talk with the agents of the H.B. Co. and of the Revillion Co. on the subject of the sale of intoxicants to Inds. and receive [sic] and received a promise from each of them that they would cease selling John Bull Bitters, Re[illeg] &c to them. The greater part of the day was taken up in enquiring into the claims of the Ojibeway and Cree Indians residing at Missinabie. In all ninety-eight Indians were paid gratuity. Considerable time was occupied in obtaining supplies, securing canoes, and in engaging men for the trip to the head of Long Lake. 31st. our slumbers were greatly disturbed by a dance that was kept up by the Indians until well on towards the morning. We left for Heron Bay at 8:15 a.m. and arrived at that place at 12:30 p.m. and on invitation of Mr Joseph Miller, merchant, put up our tents beside his store and immediately opposite the railway station. 1 Aug. Mr H. E. Tremain district inspector for the H B Co had been entrusted with the duty of supplying canoes and men for the journey to and from Long Lake but we soon learned that his arrangements were far from satisfactory. The men positively declined to attempt to go up the river with the canoes provided as they stated that they were altogether unsuitable. This occasioned a delay as another canoe had to be sent for to Missanabie. During the forenoon numerous telegrams were sent and when the afternoon train came in we were pleased to see that it had brought along the required canoes. We cut down our dunnage to be lowest possible point, leaving a large portion of our goods in charge of Mr Miller and at 5:50 were ready to begin our journey from the bridge at Pic River. Mr Tremain, wife and young daughter who were to accompany

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us had to remain behind as their canoes had not been brought down to the river. We however, agreed to camp early and wait for their arrival. The Pic River is at many points and particularly near Heron Bay a very picturesque stream. The winding river and its high clay banks [illeg] many fantastic shapes, makes a very pretty picture indeed. It is however a difficult river to navigate as thee current is very swift and the water at many places very low, so that it is necessary to have men thoroughly acquainted with its peculiarities to go either up or down it without running into boulders or sandbanks. We camped at 6:45 p.m. and in about an hours time were joined by Mr Tremain and his party. We found that the place where we had camped was a favourite spot for black and sandflies and these creatures soon made us aware of their presence. 2nd August. We were a pretty formidable party as we left our camping place at 8 a.m. Our fleet was composed of seven Peterborough canoes, several of them quite small and the paddlers numbered eighteen in all. Including Mr and Mrs Tremain and daughter, there were twenty eight in all in the party. During the day and the dangers of the Pic River were made known to us by one running aground, and by one having holes punched in the canvas by branches of dead trees that could not be seen owing to the water being so dark and dirty. The steep clay banks made it very difficult to find a suitable place to land for our meals and to enable us to put up a tents for the night. 3rd August. It rained heavily all night and during the morning so that we were unable to continue our journey until about 11:30. During the afternoon we made good progress notwithstanding that we were delayed by a hole being punched in one of our canoes. The rain of the night and morning which washed a good deal of clay from the banks caused the water to be so dark. and dirty that obstacles on the bottom could not be seen. We put out our tents on the top of a rather steep hill at 6:45 p.m. having travelled about twenty five miles during the afternoon. We spent a pleasant hour around the campfire in company with Mr and Mrs Tremain and their little daughter Gladys. 4th August. We left camp at 6:45 a.m. and ascended the Pic River to Lake Superior portage the distance of about seventeen miles which place we reached at 1:30. The falls at the portage are well worth seeing. The swift current has cut out for itself a channel through the rock on one side and the clay on the other through which the waters come hurtling and tossing for a distance of about one hundred yards. We were informed that trout are plentiful at this place and this was found to be the fact on its being put to the test. In a very short time nine fine trout were caught by members of the party. We reluctantly left the beautiful spot at about 2:30. The water above the portage is much clearer than below where it takes the color of the clay. The next point of interest, about 12 miles above the portage was the ‘devils [illeg]houses’ so called from the fantastic shapes in several cases resembling houses, into which the clay banks have been cut by the rush of the water down its sides. About a mile further on we put up our tents for the night at 6:15 p.m. The day had been beautiful and bright and in every way enjoyable. The enjoyment of the evening was only marred by the sandflies which were very persistent in their attentions. 5th August. Our journey was resumed at 6:45 a.m. Progress was for a time very slow owing to the lowness of the water. At 8 a.m. we arrived at the White Otter Falls where a second portage

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had to be made. The falls are about fifteen feet in height the waters being spread out for a considerable width and as the name implies they are perfectly white forming a pretty picture. The portage is over the hill about seventy five feet high and is about one hundred and fifty yards long. Ascending the river another three miles we came to the Big Sandhill Falls one of the most picturesque spots one could well imagine. The fall is about seventy five feet high, there being first a drop of about twenty five feet then a sharp turn and another drop of about the same height and then another turn makes a drop to the rugged rocks below. Several members of the party climbed the steep rocks to view the falls from above, whilst the others contented themselves by taking in the view from several points at the foot of the falls. The portage at this place goes over a steep [illeg] hill about one hundred and fifty feet high. The work of carrying heavy loads up the steep hill is a very difficult one, and the work could only be accomplished by men who have had long experience in this task. At the head of the portage we came to a party of Grand Trunk Pacific men who were camping here owing to one member of the party having met with a severe accident at the big hill. He had gone on ahead of his party with supplies and when found by them had been six days without having received any attention and unable to do anything for himself. Our doctor soon took the man in charge and found that he had one rib broken and was otherwise badly shaken up. The doctor fixed the man up as well as possible under the circumstances and left lotions and medicines for his use for which he expresses his heartfelt thanks. Proceeding on our journey a distance of five miles we came to Deadman’s Portage in crossing which a distance of about a mile and a half three members of the party got lost for a time in a muskeg and had a bad time with mosquitoes before getting back to the path. A short run of about half a mile brought us to Huckleberry portage, [illeg words crossed out] where usually at this time of the year large quantities of that fruit can be gathered. The late frosts had however injured the bushes to such an extent that only a few patches of the berries were to be seen. Another three quarters of a mile brought us to Split Rock portage where our journey ended for the day at about 6 p.m. Our tents were put up close to the beautiful Split Rock falls, the noise of the waters assisting rather than hindering our slumbers. 6thAugust. We left camp at 6:40 a.m. and crossed Split Rock portage 200 yards and ascended the Pic through a series of small lakes to Sarigahow rapids which runs into the lake and Weikunbeboogun rapid where the boat is pulled up by a rope. Both of these portages are close together and necessitate the passengers disembarking while the canoes with their contents were poled up by the men. Another ¼ of a mile brought us to the Cedars portage, about two hundred yards long, and a mile beyond this we came to Smooth Rock rapids about one hundred yards long. At both of these last portages a portion of the luggage was portaged to lighten the canoes which were poled up the rapids. We next ascended to Grasshopper Lake one and the half miles to the foot of Cat Rapids which also were poled up while the passengers walked. Next we ascended Crooked Lake and river about four miles which brought us to Turning portage about 260 yards across. Ascending the river about one mile we came to Pulling

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portage about 120 yards long. Fifty yards further on is the portage where ‘The Water goes between the Rocks’ which well describes the rapids at this place. From then on we were on the lookout for a good camping place and at 7:25 we came to a beautiful one which on examination we agreed filled the bill in a satisfactory manner. This had been a trying day for the crew who had a for long distances to wade in the rapids in order to lift the canoes over the stones owing to the water being so low. 7th August We left camp at 6.30 and in about an hour's time arrived at Poplar portage which we were not long in crossing as it is only about 40 yards long. About 3 miles further on the river widened out into McKay's Lake to the relief of everyone as we were now in deep water and had no fear of damaging the canoes on rocks or sunken trees. We landed for lunch at 11.30 and were soon visited by an Indian family that were camped nearby. One of the members of the family, a woman, was an invalid, and the doctor gave her what attention he could in the short time we were there. We left here at 1 p.m. and were soon in another marshy [illeg] The water in this section we also found to have an extremely unpleasant smell, owing to its being thick with decomposed vegetable matter. The water [illeg] is so thick in Mud Lake, which we now crossed, that it required all the strength of the men to push or paddle the canoes through it. Between McKay's Lake and Mud Lake there is a small portage known as the 2nd Poplar. Height of the Land Portage was reached at 3:15 p.m. This portage is a mile and a half long and as the day it was exceedingly hot we were glad to be able to go over it in easy stages. As it was we all reached the north side of the portage tired, hot and thirsty. A drink, therefore, of lime juice was very acceptable to both whites and Indians, the latter especially expressing their appreciation very heartily. It was 7.30 before all our goods were over the portage. One of our men was completely prostrated by the heat, that he required the attention of the doctor. The mosquitoes and black flies were exceedingly numerous and troublesome in the vicinity of our camp, so that we were glad to make frequent use of the fly oil of which we had a good supply. 8th August. We left at 6:45 a.m. on the ‘Suicide’ or Little at Albany river, a narrow stream, and for the first eight or nine miles so shallow that all but the crew were at times required to walk along the shore so that the canoes might thus the lightened. As there was rather a good path near the edge of the water well sheltered by the trees, the walk was not by any means considered a hardship. At one of the narrow parts of the river we met ten Indians in four canoes who were were [sic] engaged as freighters by the Revillion Freres, or as they are generally called the French Company, or the opposition. We had met some of the men on a previous occasion, and these gave us a very hearty hand-shake. The Tremains, however, did not express any great pleasure at seeing these men, indeed there is anything but a friendly feeling between certain members of the H.B. Co. and of the Revellion Freres. Shortly after leaving these men we met Rev. Father Dugas, Roman Catholic Missionary in charge of this district. We had expected to meet the Rev Father at Long Lake post, but learned that engagements made by him did not permit of his remaining until our arrival. Another five miles brought us to the entrance to Long Lake, and here we made a short stop to put up our flags, in order to make a good appearance coming in to the post just across the

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Lake. Our seven canoes well manned made, we were informed, a very pretty picture as [we] came near to our destination. Immediately upon our being seen, flags were run up at several points on the shore. We landed at 11.30 and were welcomed by Mr P. Godchere, in charge of the Long Lake post, and by the Indians who were assembled here. In the afternoon payment of annuities were made to the Robinson Treaty Indians eighty in number. At the post as at almost all the others we visited, a gramophone was kept going most of the day for the amusement of the Indians, who appeared to be highly delighted with the performance. 9th August. A meeting was held with principal men of the non treaty Indians of Long Lake, when the usual explanations were made as to the terms of the treaty to which their adherence was desired. The Indians were asked to speak their minds freely as to its terms. The Indians at once signified their acceptance of the proposed terms, and Peter Taylor one of their number speaking for them expressed their pleasure of the band that they were to receive annuity like their brethern [sic] of the Robinson Treaty and also that they were to be granted land which they could feel was their own. The signatures of four of the leading men were then attached to the treaty, the syllabic characters being used by them, these being witnessed by Mr and Mrs Tremain, P Godchere and Mr P Edgar. The gratuity was then paid to 188 Indians, all of whom appeared to be very grateful for the generosity shown them. In the evening the Indians held their feast at the close of which a flag was presented to Newatchigegwabe who was now the recognized chief of both bands. At the conclusion of the feast the chief spoke, thanking the government for what had been done for the Indians of Long lake. He said that the Indians who had been receiving annuity money for years were glad that their brethern [sic] were now placed on an equal footing with them. He hoped that provision would be made for their sick and destitute, as even in the best seasons the Indians found it to be very difficult to do more than make a living, and were able to do very little towards assisting one another. In reply, the Chief was informed that the government was always ready to assist those actually requiring help, but that the Indians must rely as much as possible upon their own exertions for their support. The Chief also complained of the high prices charged by the H.B. Co. for goods, and of the very small price paid the Indians for their furs. The Commissioners felt that there was some reason for complaint in regard to both these matters, but could promise no relief beyond representing the matter to the inspector of the Company. After the feast and the speeches a bon-fire was lit in the field where the feast was held, and four old men took turns on beating a drum while the Indians, men, women and children, circled around the fire, dancing, kicking and yelling. After carrying on this dance for a couple of hours, the younger members of the band retired to a near by shack where they danced a good part of the night. 10th August The business of the Commissioners and of the doctor being finished preparations for departure were begun in the morning. Mr Morris, however, decided to remain at Long Lake for a couple of weeks, as he desired to obtain portraits of a number of the Indians at this place. Shortly after noon we said goodbye to Mr Morris, Mr Godchere and to our many Indian friends. About a dozen of the Indians had provided themselves with guns and as we left the

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wharf a salute was fired by them in our honour. A similar courtesy was shown us by the Revillion Brothers people, whose agent Mr McDonald had visited us with his wife shortly after our arrival at Long Lake. The only special incident that marred our return journey was a big bush fire that almost barred our way at the big Height of Land Portage. This fire had evidently started after we passed through here on her way north and must have burned fiercely for a time as was shown by the number of trees that had fallen across the path. Our party had been exceedingly careful in the matter of fires all the way up, and we were confident that we could not have been the cause of this fire. We were inclined to think that the same care had [illeg] taken by the freighters we had met a short distance north of the portage. We made very good progress on the journey south arriving at the bridge at Heron Bay at 7:25 Tuesday 14th August. We put up out tents close to the bridge and retired to rest soon after as we were pretty well tired as we had been up shortly after 4 a.m. and began our day's journey at 5:30. Our men had proven themselves competent and willing and we were glad to know that they all felt that our estimate of them had been all that they could desire. Our experience with the Indians led us to form a high opinion of them for their ability and for their willingness to perform the duties required of them and for their desire to recognize any kindness shown them. We were always on the best of terms with all the men we had in our employ, and parted with many of them with serious regret. The last of the Treaty 9 Indians were paid by us at Heron Bay. These [were] some belonging to the English River band who now reside at Montizambert. On the morning of the 15th of August we said goodbye to Mr and Mrs Miller of Heron Bay who had shown us much kindness when we camped near their residence. We also said goodbye here to Mr and Mrs Tremain and their little daughter Gladys who left during the morning for Fort Henderson. At 9 p.m. we took the train for the East and arrived at Ottawa aboard the same train on the 16th August.

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