r. Fisher's knowledge of the Indian character saved his life; had he
betrayed the slightest symptom of fear, he was a dead man; but the
undaunted attitude he assumed staggered the resolution of the savage;
a new bias seemed to operate on his mind, probably through a feeling
of respect for the determined courage displayed by his intended
victim. He could not brace his nerves to a second effort; his hand
dropped listlessly by his side; his gaze was fixed on Mr. Fisher for a
moment; then dashing the pistol violently on the ground, he beckoned
him to withdraw.[1]

[1] At that period some of the Iroquois made good hunts,
trapping beaver along the main rivers and outskirts of the
Algonquin lands.

Immediately after the close of the spring trade, the most formidable
of our opponents _hinted_ that he might be induced to quit the field;
a negotiation was accordingly opened with him, which soon terminated
in a favourable issue, on very advantageous terms to the retiring
party.

The solitary being who remained behind was thus thrown upon his own
resources, and his efforts to maintain the unequal contest unaided,
were so feeble and ineffectual, that the Company might be said to hold
a monopoly of the fur-trade at this period; but thereafter they paid
dearly for their triumph, as further sacrifices had yet to be made ere
they could enjoy it in quiet. A Canadian merchant, in easy
circumstances, who dwelt opposite to the village, having learned the
advantageous terms obtained by the petty traders from the Company,
addressed a very polite note to Mr. Fisher, stating his intention to
try his fortune as a trader, but that he would have no objection to
postpone the attempt for five years, provided the Company would allow
him 150l. per annum, during that period. The proposal was submitted to
Mr. Thane, who laconically replied, "Let him do his worst, and be...."
Accordingly, St. Julien immediately commenced operations. He hired one
end of an Indian house, which he fitted up as a trader's shop: Fisher
hired the other end. St. Julien then removed to another: Fisher
occupied the other end of that house also. St. Julien next rented a
_whole_ house: Fisher purchased a house, placed it upon rollers, and
wheeled it directly in front of that of his rival, rearwards, scarcely
leaving sufficient room for one person to pass between the premises.
This caused great amusement to the Indians; not so to St. Julien, who
had not anticipated s