14 SKETCH OF THE BOOTHIANS. 



accompanied by a free gift of some kind. It is but a part of the 

 same cliaracter, that they were ever ready to confess a fault, and to 

 make reparation, as they best could, either by apology, or restora- 

 tion, or services; while ever seeming uneasy till they were forgiven 

 and restored to favour. 



I may indulge in relating one petty history, by which this part 

 of their character will be better illustrated than by any general 

 statements, and I have no right to consider it the exception, rather 

 than the rule, where no similar opportunity otfered; since it seemed 

 to be consistent with their general character; and in other points 

 than this. 



It had been settled, early in the spring, that Ooblooria and 

 Awack, the son and nephew of Ikmallik, should provide them- 

 selves with a sledge, dogs, and provisions, and accompany Com- 

 mander Ross, who was to furnish his own supplies and carriage, 

 and to proceed to Neitchillee, about fifty miles off, under their 

 guidance. They accordingly came, at the appointed time, which 

 was fixed by counting on the fingers, and by drawing on the snow 

 the appearance which the moon would then present ; the stipulated 

 quota of provisions being for five days. 



On arriving, however, they found that four families, including 

 some relations, were hutted near the ship, and had been unsuccessful 

 in their hunting ; on which they unpacked their sledges, and gave 

 up so much of their stores as only to leave themselves enough for 

 two days. This was barely sufficient to carry them on to Neitchillee, 

 yet not enough to maintain them during their return ; but they had 

 expected to find a deposit offish at that place. Unluckily, a storm 



