a
sad business; but the bad fire-water is to blame for it all."

My stratagem had succeeded. Most of the natives acknowledged the
justice of the punishment inflicted on their young chief, who had a
brother present, however, whose sullen countenance betrayed the
vindictive feelings in his breast, although he maintained a profound
silence.

The Fort Coulonge party started early next day, dragging their wounded
companion on a sled, until they were out of sight. The relatives of
the chief removed him to the camp, where he soon recovered. All the
other Indians took their departure on the day following the affray.
Shortly afterwards we were favoured with a visit from one whose
hunting-grounds bordered on Rice Lake, a distance of 150 miles. I
had advanced this Indian all the supplies he required previous to
Mr. Siviright's arrival, which formed a pretty large amount. On
examining the books, he animadverted upon the advance in terms of
disapprobation, as being very imprudent to risk so much with an
Indian. Most gratified and happy was I then to learn from the hunter
that he had sufficient to liquidate the debt, and nearly as much more
to trade. On making out his requisition for the latter purpose, it was
found that four sleds at least would be required for the transport of
all the property. To employ this number in one direction, however,
would leave my neighbour at liberty to prosecute his views in another
quarter without the necessary attendance. Still, I determined on
risking a point, and securing at all hazards the valuable prize now
offered. Obtaining a _piece_ at the sacrifice of a _pawn_ is
considered good play.

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