Harmon's journal. 93 



when reason has been dethroned, and passion has 

 assumed the sole dominion over them, through the 

 influence of ardent spirits. While in that condi- 

 tion, they, like other people, often do things which 

 they will regret in their sober moments. 



Sunday, 23. It has snowed all day ; and about 

 six inches have fallen. I am waiting the arrival 

 of Mr. Henry to take charge of this post, when 

 I shall proceed to Alexandria. Two women 

 brought me a few hazelnuts, which they this day 

 gathered from the bushes. 



Monday, 31. Alexandria. Here, accompani- 

 ed by two of my people, I arrived this afternoon. 

 I ncrossing Swan River, I was so unfortunate as to 

 drown another horse ; and I was therefore obliged 

 to perform the remainder of the journey on foot, 

 with nothing to eat. Here, thanks to the Bestow- 

 er of all good, I find a tolerable stock of provis- 

 ions. Mr. Goedike is to pass the summer with 

 me, also two interpreters, and three labouring 

 men, besides several women and children, who 

 together, form a snug family. 



Wednesday, June 23. On the 16th inst. accom- 

 panied by two of my people, I set off for Swan 

 River fort, on horseback. The first night, we 

 slept at Bird Mountain ; and the day following, 

 we arrived at the lower fort. From that place, 1 

 returned in one day, which is a distance of ninety 



