ACKOSS THE SUB-AKCTICS OF CANADA 



shoes were made somewhat after the Montreal model, sym- 

 metrical on either side, framed of one stick and slightly bent 

 up at the toe, but those used by the rest were of very differ- 

 ent make and more peculiar design. Though we purchased 

 them from the Hudson's Bay Company at Churchill, they 

 were made by the Chipewyan Indians. Their shoes are not 

 made symmetrically, but are constructed with bulges upon 

 their outer sides, and are formed of two pieces of wood, tied 

 together at both ends and held apart in the middle by cross- 

 bars, while the toes are turned up with a sharp curve. 



Having reached the shelter of the Eastern .Woods, and 

 concluded the first day's march, a camping-place was chosen. 

 The drivers of the teams at once proceeded to unharness the 

 dogs, make beds for them of spruce boughs, and give them 

 their daily meal of seal-blubber or fish. The other members 

 of the party busied themselves in clearing away the sno«-, 

 cutting dovm brush and firewood, and building the camp. 

 This latter did not consist of a tent, shanty, or indeed cover- 

 ing of any kind, but simply of a wall of brush built crescent- 

 shape to a height of three or four feet, and in such a posi- 

 tion as to best afford shelter from the cutting wind. The 

 two main elements of a good winter camp-ground are shelter 

 and dry wood, both of which are indispensable. 



The snow was cleared away from the inside of the wind- 

 break, and in its stead spruce boughs were strewn to a depth 

 of several inches, and in front of this a big fire kindled — 

 and camp was complete. 



These tasks ended, the preparation of supper was com- 

 menced. Baoon and biscuits were hauled out, while frying- 

 pans and tea-kettles were brought and placed with their 

 contents upon the fire. Fresh water had been found by cut- 

 ting through the ice of a creek close by, so nothing was 

 lacking. 



Tin plates and cups, knives and forks were provided, but 

 as we took hold of them they froze to our fingers, and before 



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