OF THE POLAR SEA. 257 
with only one day’s supply of this most essential 
article. The prospect of having to commence our 
journey from hence, almost destitute of provision, 
and scantily supplied with stores, was distressing 
to us, and very discouraging tothe men. It was 
evident, however, that any unnecessary delay 
here would have been very imprudent, as Fort 
Chipewyan did not, at the present time, furnish 
the means of subsistence for so large a party, 
much less was there a prospect of our receiving any 
supply to carry us forward. We, therefore, hast- 
ened to make the necessary arrangements for our 
speedy departure. All the stores were demanded 
that could possibly be spared from both the esta- 
blishments ; and we rejoiced to find, that when 
this collection was added to the articles that had 
been brought up by the canoes, that we had a 
sufficient quantity of clothing for the equipment 
of the men who had been engaged here, as well 
as to furnish a present to the Indians, besides 
some few goods for the winter’s consumption ; 
but we could not procure any ammunition, which 
was the most essential article, or spirits, and but 
little tobacco. 
We then made a final arrangement respecting 
the voyagers, who were to accompany the party ; 
and, fortunately, there was no difficulty in one 
Vor, I. 
OL, 
