OF THE POLAR SEA. 



105 



in the evening. We put up on a ridge of 

 sand hills, where we found some pines, and 

 made a large fire to apprize Mr. Back and 

 Fontano of our position. St. Germain hav- 

 ing killed a deer in the afternoon, we re- 

 ceived an acceptable supply of meat. The 

 night was stormy and very cold. 



At five the next morning, our men were 

 sent in different directions after our absent 

 companions ; but as the weather was foggy, 

 we despaired of finding them, unless they 

 should chance to hear the muskets our peo- 

 ple were desired to fire. They returned, 

 however, at ten, bringing intelligence of 

 them. I went immediately with Hepburn 

 to join Mr. Back, and directed Mr. Hood 

 to proceed with the Canadians, and halt 

 with them at the spot where the hunters 

 had killed a deer. Though Mr. Back was 

 much fatigued, he set off with me imme- 

 diately, and in the evening we rejoined our 

 friends on the borders of the Big Lake. 

 The Indians informed us that Fontano only 

 remained a few hours with them, and then 

 continued his journey. We had to oppose 



