OF THE POLAR SEA. 191 
cargo among the others. We started after this 
had been arranged, and finding almost imme- 
diately a firm track, soon arrived at some In- 
dian lodges to which it led. The inhabitants 
were Crees, belonging to the posts on the Sas- 
katchawan, from whence they had come to hunt 
beaver. We made but a short Stay, and pro- 
ceeded through a Swamp to Pelican Lake. Our 
view to the right was bounded by a range of 
lofty hills, which extended for several miles in a 
north and south direction, which, it may be re- 
marked, has been that of all the Shy mewlwe 
have passed since quitting the plain. — 
Pelican. Lake is of an irregular form, about six 
miles from. east to west, and eight from north to 
south ; it decreases to the breadth of a mile to- 
iiss the northern extremity, and is there termi- 
hated by a creek. We went up this creek for a 
short distance, and then struck into the woods, 
and encamped among a cluster of the firs, which 
the Canadians term cyprés (pinus Banksiana ): 
having come fourteen miles and a half. 
February 16.—Shortly after commencing the 
journey to-day, we met an Indian and his family, 
who had come from the houses at Green Lake ; 
they informed us the track was well beaten the 
whole way. We, therefore, put forth our utmost 
Speed in the hope of reaching them by night ; but 
were disappointed, and had to halt at dark, about 
