MEETING WITH NATIVES 



ceeded to this princely dwelling, and finding the owners- 

 three young brothers— entered into negotiations with them 

 for its purchase. The value asked in exchange for the robes 

 being very moderate, they were secured and made into a snug 

 bale. Next my attention was drawn to a pile of skins lying 

 •on the rocks. As I approached these skins, several Eskimos 

 sat upon them, telling me as they did so that the owner was 

 away hunting, and therefore I could not buy them. I 

 assented, but asked to be allowed to look at them. Even this, 



GROUP OF ESKIMOS. 



however, was stoutly refused, as the owner was not present. 

 I could not help admiring these fellows for their fidelity to 

 one of their number. Some time was then spent in collecting 

 information about the country, and in purchasing nicknaeks 

 of one kind and another. Presently the owner of the 

 «kins returned. He at once proceeded to open up his furs, 

 which, with the exception of one wolf -skin, were all musk-ox 

 robes, but of inferior quality. The four best skins were 

 picked out and reserved, and the frowsy remnant then offered 



119 



