isation to aid me,
and the result was, that I was soon supplied with some of the finest
dogs that could be obtained. Among them, Jack and Cuffy, the gifts of
Senator Sanford of Hamilton, were never equalled. Through the kindness
of James Ferrier, Esquire, of Montreal, five beautiful Saint Bernards
were obtained from Mrs Andrew Allan. Dr Mark of Ottawa, and other
friends also remembered me, with the result, that soon I had some of the
finest dog-trains in the land. These civilised dogs had all the good
qualities of the Esquimaux without any of their thievish tricks. They
proved themselves equal in their endurance and sagacity; and only lacked
in that their feet seemed more easily to become injured and sore.

The dog-sleds are ten feet long and eighteen inches wide. They are used
to carry our bedding and supplies, as often for days and nights together
we are entirely dependent on our loads for food and lodgings. These
miscellaneous loads are well packed up in the great deer skin wrappers
and so securely tied to the sleds, that no matter how many may be the
upsets, the loads never become disarranged. My own sled, which was
called a "cariole," was one of the usual oak sleds with parchment sides
and a firm back attached. Sometimes these carioles were handsomely
painted and were very comfortable vehicles in which to ride. When well
wrapped up in fur robes, with plenty of fat meat to eat, splendid dogs
to draw you, and loving loyal Indian attendants with you dog-travelling
was not without its pleasures and enjoyments; especially if the sun was
bright, the icy pavement under you free from drifting snows, and the
temperature not colder than forty degrees below zero. It was a
different thing, however, when blizzards howled around you and the air
was so fall of the fine cutting particles of icy snow, that it was
dangerous to expose any part of the face to their pitiless attacks.
Then it was, that the marvellous skill of the experienced Indian-guide
was seen, and we were led on amidst such miserable surroundings with an
accuracy and speed that seemed almost incredible.

The camp, when the day's travel was ended--especially if blizzards had
assailed us--was a welcomed spot, even if it was only a whole day out in
the snow on the sheltered side on some dense spruce or balsam grove. At
times we were able to find places in which thus to camp that were quite
picturesque. When the halt for the night was called by the guide, t