Diary Excerpt
During the evening the Indians informed the Commissioners that they had elected the following Chief and Counsellors: Frederick Mark, James Job, Simon Quatchequan and Simon Cheena. As they were to have their feast in the evening, it was decided to present the flag to the chief on that occasion.
The feast was held on a large workshop placed at the disposal of the Indians by the company and before this hall, just as night was coming on, the flag was presented to Chief Mark. In many respects it was a unique occasion. The gathering was addressed by Bishop Holmes, who began with a prayer in Cree, the Indians making their responses and signing their hymns in the same language.
Bishop Holmes kindly interpreted the address of the Commissioners, which was suitably replied to by Chief Mark. It may be recorded that during our stay at this point the commodious church was crowded every evening by interested Indians, who took an intelligent pad in each service.
The usual dance was held was its close of the feast. It should have been stated that on the evening of the 9th, Mr. McKenzie, district inspector for HBC, and Mr. Cochram came over from Charlton Island on the Steamer Chipman, and both of these gentlemen showed us every kindness.
August 14th: On the way to New Post:
We were up at 5 AM. and shortly after breakfast, saw three canoes coming down the stream. The occupants proved to be Ontario Govt, men who were sent to report on the mines, forests, and soil of the district.
August 19th: We were up at 5:30 and found that the day was clear and fine. On starting we could not but remark on the fine view ahead of us, which included some of the mountains in the distance. This we thought was one of the finest views we had seen for a number of days.
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We left at 1:15 for the last stage of this part of our journey, and at 2:30 we arrived at New Post. Mr. Barrett in charge of this post had come with us from Moose, and we all had all become very much attached to him.
21st Our first duty as usual was to meet with representative Indians, and the following were chosen to confer with us, viz. Angus Weenusk, Wm. Gull, and John Luke, the later acting as Interpreter. As usual, the point on which the Indians desired full information was as to the effect the treaty would have on their hunting and fishing rights. When assured that these would not be taken from them, they expressed much pleasure and their willingness to sign the treaty, which was accordingly done, and the signatures duly witnessed.