See that we have our work cut
out. Doubt if we can make more than 10 miles a day up this river.
I took tracking line; George and Wallace the poles. Sand flies
awful - nasty, vindictive, bite out chunks, and streak our hands and
faces with blood. Mosquitoes positively friendly by contrast.
Tried net. Could not see, then tried dope - some help. Eating much
and not rustling for fish or game. Want to lighten outfit.
Friday, July 17th. - Rain and clouds. Rained hard in the night.
Awoke dreading to start out in it. Got breakfast to let George
sleep. Water so shoal and swift that we would take part of outfit
and return for the rest. Most places had to track, I pulling on
rope while Wallace and George waded, and pushed and dragged the
canoe.
Saturday, July 18th. - Bright, clear day. Lat. 53 degrees 45
minutes 30 seconds. Started out with full load and kept it most of
the day. Had to portage half load a few times. Awful work all
day. Rapids continuously. I waded with line while George and
Wallace dragged and lifted. All enjoyed the forenoon's work, and
no one depressed when P.M. weariness began. No game. Bear and
some caribou tracks. Have not seen a partridge or porcupine. Seem
to be few fish. They come later and farther on.
Sunday, July 19th. - Minimum temp. last night 38 degrees.
