fifteen during the space of twenty two days we destroyed for to Keep us alive upwards of three Hundred Beaver S[kins] Besides a few Lynxes Skins and otter ditto[.] Since that time to the present date we have a meal now & then at Intervals we are still two or three days without any thing yet all my men are dead of Starvation – viz. the Deceased Louis Le Mai dit Poudrier, Tone of his children François Pillon & William Henry my Hunter[.] I am unable to describe my own Situation – all my Indians have Starved more or less – from one small band only I received news yesterday evening – that five were dead of Hunger[.] But the majority of the natives I have heard nothing of Since the month of November, who were then at that early period gnawing the clothings they had upon themselves[.] Hares have Totally failed throughout all Parts of the Country & Large Cattle have been uncommon Scare at this place in Particular – and the Cold this last winter has been the severest I have ever yet Known[.] The Ice of the Grand is no less than four & a half & five feet thick – at this late date none of the Snow has yet disappeared in the woods[.] [M]y own situation is yet but precarious – tho' I support my feelings in reflecting that no Blame can attach to me these thoughts are my only comfort[.] I am quite alone at the Fort not even an Animal to keep me in

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