lorers
should see no more of them at that time, because the Slave and Beaver
Indians, as well as others of the tribe, were about to depart, and would
not be in that region again till the time when the swans cast their
feathers.

"Ask him," said Mackenzie, "if he and his friends have many furs to
dispose of."

To this the Indian replied by at once producing upwards of eight large
packs of good beaver and marten skins; and added the information that
his friends had plenty more.

"Now, then, Le Roux," said Mackenzie, turning to his clerk, "here you
and I shall part. This seems a good spot and a good opportunity for
opening up the trade with these Indians. When the rest of them arrive
we shall have a palaver, and then you shall remain to look after them,
so, open up your packs, and get ready a few small presents without
delay."

That day was spent in considerable bustle and excitement; the Indians
being overjoyed that the white traders had at last penetrated into their
country; and their joy being increased by the distribution of such
trifling, but much-prized, gifts as glass beads, knives, small
looking-glasses, etcetera. It rained in torrents all the time but this
did not damp their spirits; and as for their bodies--they were used to
it! In the afternoon Mackenzie assembled the whole tribe, and made them
the following speech, which was translated by English Chief in a very
pompous manner, for that excellent red-skin was fully alive to the
dignity of his position.

"My friends," began our explorer, "I am glad to meet with you. The
white man and the Indians are always glad to meet--they can benefit each
other mutually. Each has got what the other requires. I have come for
the purpose of opening up trade with you. It is true that I myself will
take my departure to-morrow, because I am in search of new lands; but
some of my people will remain on the spot, and if you bring in a
sufficient quantity of furs to make it answer, my men will return to
Fort Chipewyan for more goods, and will spend the winter here. They
will build a fort and continue to dwell among you as long as you shall
be found to deserve it."

At this point the speaker paused, and the dark-skinned audience gave
vent to a loud "Ho!" which was equivalent to the British "Hear, hear!"

"In regard to my own work," continued Mackenzie, "I intend to search
for, and find the great river, which, it is said, flows out of this
lake, and follow its current