In the Arctic Regions. 405 
and their account of the coast on that side was, that, 
as far as they were acquainted with it, it was free from 
ice during the summer. 
Having ascertained that the Esquimaux we were likely 
to be seen in greater numbers than had been at first 
imagined, I increased the stock of presents from the 
store at this place, and exchanged two of our guns, 
which were defective, that the party might have entire 
confidence in their arms. And to provide against the 
casualty of either or both branches of the Expedition 
having to return this way, I requested Mr. Bell to 
store up as much meat as he could during the summer, 
We learned from.this gentleman that the supply of 
meat at this post was very precarious, and that had 
we not left the five bags of pemmican in the autumn, 
the residents would have been reduced to great distress 
for food during the winter. These bags were now re- 
placed. The arrangements being concluded, we spent 
the greater part of the night in writing to England. 
T addressed to the Colonial Secretary an account of 
our proceedings up to this time, and I felt happy to 
be able to state that we were equipped with every 
requisite for the Expedition. 
Sundsy We quitted Fort Good Hope at five on the 
2nd. In the passage down the river we were visited 
by several Loucheux, who, the instant we appeared, 
launched their canoes, and came off to welcome us. 
