Chapter IV: Part 4

Some Days after, we perceiv’d a Fire in the Country, which spread it self and burnt the dry Weeds, still drawing towards us; whereupon, Monsr. _de la Sale_ made all the Weeds and Herbs that were about us, be pull’d up, and particularly all about the Place where the Powder was. Being desirous to know the Occasion of that Fire, he took about twenty of us along with him, and we march’d that Way, and even beyond the Fire, without seeing any Body. We perceiv’d that it run towards the _W. S. W._ and judg’d it had begun about our first Camp, and at the Village next the Fire.[60]

[Sidenote: _Odd Salutation._]

Having spy’d a Cottage near the Bank of a Lake, we drew towards it, and found an old Woman in it, who fled as soon as she saw us; but having overtaken and given her to understand, that we would do her no Harm, she return’d to her Cottage, where we found some Pitchers of Water, of which we all drank. Some Time after we saw a Canoe coming, in which were two Women and a Boy, who being landed, and perceiving we had done the old Woman no Harm, came and imbraced us in a very particular Manner, blowing upon our Ears and making Signs to give us to understand, that their People were a hunting.

A few Minutes after, seven or eight of the _Indians_ appeared, who, it is likely, had hid themselves among the Weeds when they saw us coming. Being come up they saluted us, after the same Manner, as the Women had done, which made us laugh. We staid there some Time with them. Some of our Men barter’d Knives for Goats Skins, after which we return’d to our Camp; Being come thither, Monsieur _de la Sale_ made me go aboard the Bark _la Belle_, where he had imbark’d Part of the Powder, with positive Orders not to carry, or permit any Fire to be made there, having sufficient Cause to fear every thing, after what had hapned. For this Reason they carry’d me and all that were with me, our Meat every Day.

During this time it was that _l’ Aimable_ opening in the Night, the next Morning we saw all the light Things that were come out of it floating about, and Monsieur _de la Sale_ sent Men every Way, who gather’d up about 30 Casks of Wine and Brandy, and some of Flesh, Meal and Grain.

When we had gather’d all, as well what had been taken out of the Ship-wreck’d Vessel as what could be pick’d up in the Sea, the next Thing was to regulate the Provisions we had left proportionably to the Number of Men we were; and there being no more Bisket, Meal was deliver’d out, and with it we made Hasty Pudding with Water, which was none of the best; some large Beans and _India_ Corn, part of which had taken wet; and every thing was distributed very discreetly. We were much incommoded for want of Kettles, but Monsieur _de Beaujeu_ gave Monsieur _de la Sale_ one, and he order’d another to be brought from the Bark _la Belle_, by which means we were well serv’d.

We were still in want of Canoes. Monsieur _de la Sale_ sent to the Camp of the _Indians_ to barter for some, and they who went thither observ’d, that those People had made their Advantage of our Ship-wreck, and had some Bales of _Normandy_ Blankets, and they saw several Women had cut them in two and made Petticoats of them. They also saw Bits of Iron of the Ship that was cast away, and return’d immediately to make their Report to Monsieur _de la Sale_, who said we must endeavour to get some Canoes in Exchange, and resolv’d to send thither again the next Day. Monsieur _du Hamel_, Ensign to Monsr. _de Beaujeu_, offer’d to go up in his Boat, which Monsieur _de la Sale_ agreed to, and order’d Messieurs _Moranget_, his Nephew, _Desloges_, _Oris_, _Gayen_, and some others to bear him Company.

[Sidenote: _Indiscretion of an Ensign._]

No sooner were those Gentlemen, who were more Hot than Wise, landed, but they went up to the Camp of the _Indians_, with their Arms in their Hands, as if they had intended to force them, whereupon several of those People fled. Going into the Cottages, they found others, to whom Monsieur _du Hamel_ endeavor’d to signify by Signs, that he would have the Blankets they had found restor’d; but the Misfortune was, that none of them understood one another. The _Indians_ thought it their best Way to withdraw, leaving behind them some Blankets and Skins of Beasts, which those Gentlemen took away, and finding some Canoes in their Return they seiz’d two, and got in, to bring them away.

[Sidenote: _March 1685_]

But having no Oars, none of them knowing how to manage those Canoes, and having only some pitiful Poles, which they could not tell the right Use of, and the Wind being also against them, they made little Way; which the Sieur _du Hamel_, who was in his Boat perceiving, and that Night drew on, he made the best of his Way, forsook them and return’d to the Camp.

[Sidenote: _The_ Indians _take Revenge_.]

Thus Night came upon them, which oblig’d those unexperienc’d Canoe Men, being thoroughly tir’d, to go ashore to take some Rest, and the Weather being cold, they lighted a Fire, about which they laid them down and fell asleep; the Sentinel they had appointed doing the same. The _Indians_ returning to their Camp, and perceiving our Men: had carry’d away two Canoes, some Skins and Blankets, took it for a Declaration of a War, resolv’d to be reveng’d, and discovering an unusual Fire, presently concluded that our men had halted there. A considerable Number of them repair’d to the Place, without making the least Noise, found our careless People fast asleep, wrap’d up in their Blankets, and shot a full Volley of their Arrows upon them all together on a Sudden, having first given their usual Shout before they fall on.

[Sidenote: _Sieurs_ Oris _and_ Desloges _kill’d._]

The Sieur _Moranget_ awaking with the Noise, and finding himself wounded, started up and fir’d his Piece successfully enough, some others did the like, whereupon the Natives fled. The Sieur _Moranget_ came to give us the Alarm, though he was shot through one of his Arms, below the Shoulder, and had another slanting Wound on the Breast. Monsieur _de la Sale_ immediately sent some arm’d Men to the Place, who could not find the _Indians_, but when Day appear’d, they found the Sieurs _Oris_ and _Desloges_ dead upon the Spot, the Sieur _Gayen_ much hurt, and the rest all safe and sound.

This Disaster, which happen’d the Night of the 5th of _March_, very much afflicted Monsieur _de la Sale_; but he chiefly lamented Monsieur _Desloges_ a sprightly Youth, who serv’d well; but in short, it was their own Fault, and contrary to the Charge given them, which was to be watchful and upon their Guard. We were under Apprehensions for Messieurs _Moranget_ and _Gayen_, lest the Arrows should be poison’d. It afterwards appear’d they were not, however Monsieur _Moranget’s_ Cure prov’d difficult, because some small Vessel was cut.

The Consequences of this Misfortune, together with the Concern, most of the best Persons who had follow’d Monsieur _de la Sale_ were under,[61] supported the Design of those who were for returning to _France_ and forsaking him, of which Number were Monsieur _Dainmaville_, a Priest of the Seminary of St. _Sulpice_, the Sieur _Minet_, Engineer and some others. The common Discourses of Monsieur _de la Sale’s_ Enemies tending to discredit his Conduct, and to represent the pretended Rashness of his Enterprize, contributed considerably towards the Desertion; but his Resolution prevailing, he heard and waited all Events with Patience, and always gave his Orders, without appearing the least discompos’d.

He caus’d the Dead to be brought to our Camp, and bury’d them Honourably, the Cannon supplying the Want of Bells, and then consider’d of making some safer Settlement. He caus’d all that had been sav’d from the Shipwreck, to be brought together into one Place, threw up Intrenchments about it, to secure his Effects, and perceiving that the Water of the River, where we were, roul’d down violently into the Sea, he fancy’d that might be one of the Branches of the _Missisipi_, and propos’d to go up it, to see whether he could find any Tokens of it, or of the Marks he had left, when he went down by Land to the Mouth of it.

[Sidenote: _Debates between the Commanders._]

In the mean Time, Monsieur _de Beaujeu_ was preparing to depart: The Chevalier _de Aire_ had many Conferences with Monsieur _de la Sale_ about several things, the latter demanded of Monsieur _de Beaujeu_, particularly the Cannon and Ball which were aboard the _Joly_, and had been design’d for him; which Monsieur _de Beaujeu_ refus’d, alledging that all those things lay at the Bottom of the Hold, and that he could not rummage it without evident Danger of perishing; tho’, at the same time, he knew we had Eight Pieces of Cannon and not one Bullet.

[Sidenote: _Mr._ de la Sale _much wrong’d_.]

[Sidenote: _Mr._ de Beaujeu _leaves him_.]

I know not how that Affair was decided between them; but am sure he suffer’d the Captain of the Flyboat _l’Aimable_ to imbark aboard Monsieur _de Beaujeu_, tho’ he deserv’d to be most severely punish’d, had Justice been done him. His Crew follow’d him, contrary to what Monsieur _de Beaujeu_ had promis’d, that he would not receive a Man of them. All that Monsieur _de la Sale_ could do, tho’ so much wrong’d, was to write to _France_, to Monsieur _de Seignelay_, Minister of State, whom he acquainted with all the Particulars, as I was inform’d, when I return’d, and he gave the Packet to Monsieur _de Beaujeu_, who sail’d away for _France_.[62]

Having lost the Notes I took at that time, and being forc’d to rely much upon Memory for what I now write, I shall not pretend to be any longer exact in the Dates, for fear of mistaking, and therefore I cannot be positive as to the Day of Monsieur _de Beaujeu’s_ Departure, but believe it was the 14th of _March_, 1685.

[Sidenote: _A Fort built._]

When Monsr. _de Beaujeu_ was gone, we fell to Work to make a Fort, of the Wreck of the Ship that had been cast away, and many Pieces of Timber the Sea threw up; and during that Time, several Men deserted, which added to Monsieur _de la Sale’s_ Affliction. A _Spaniard_ and a _French_ Man stole away and fled, and were never more heard of. Four or five others follow’d their Example, but Monsieur _de la Sale_ having timely Notice, sent after them, and they were brought back. One of them was condemn’d to Death, and the others to serve the King ten Years in that Country.

[Sidenote: _Monsr._ de la Sale _goes to discover up the River_.]

When our Fort was well advanc’d, Monsr. _de la Sale_ resolv’d to clear his Doubts, and to go up the River, where we were, to know whether it was not an Arm of the _Missisipi_, and accordingly order’d fifty Men to attend him, of which Number were Monsr. _Cavelier_, his Brother, and Monsr. _Chedeville_, both Priests, two Recolet Fryars, and several Voluntiers, who set out in five Canoes we had, with the necessary Provisions. There remain’d in the Fort about an hundred and thirty Persons, and Monsr. _de la Sale_ gave me the Command of it, with Orders not to have any Commerce with the Natives, but to fire at them if they appear’d.

[Sidenote: _Returns._]

Whilst Monsr. _de la Sale_ was absent, I caus’d an Oven to be built, which was a great Help to us, and employ’d my self in finishing the Fort, and putting it in a Posture to withstand the _Indians_, who came frequently in the Night to range about us, howling like Wolves and Dogs; but two or three[63] Musquet Shots put them to Flight. It happen’d one Night, that having fir’d six or seven Shot, Monsieur _de la Sale_ who was not far from us, heard them, and being in Pain about it, he return’d with six or seven Men, and found all Things in a good Posture.

[Sidenote: _Sets out again._]

He told us he had found a good Country, fit to sow and plant all Sorts of Grain, abounding in Beeves and wild Fowl; that he design’d to erect a Fort farther up the River,[64] and accordingly, he left me Orders to square out as much Timber as I could get, the Sea casting up much upon the Shore. He had given the same Orders to the Men he had left on the Spot, seven or eight of whom, detach’d from the rest, being busy at that Work, and seeing a Number of the Natives, fled, and unadviseably left their Tools behind them. Monsieur _de la Sale_ returning thither, found a Paper made fast to a Reed, which gave him Notice of that Accident, which he was concern’d at, because of the Tools, not so much for the Value of the Loss, as because it was furnishing the Natives with such Things as they might afterwards make Use of against us.

[Sidenote: _Apr. 1685_]

[Sidenote: _A Spanish Vessel appears._]

About the Beginning of _April_ we were alarm’d by a Vessel which appear’d at Sea, near enough to discern the Sails, and we supposed they might be _Spaniards_, who had heard of our Coming and were ranging the Coast to find us out. That made us stand upon our Guard, to keep within the Fort, and see that our Arms were fit for Service. We afterwards saw two Men in that Vessel, who[65] instead of coming to us, went towards the other Point, and by that Means pass’d on, without perceiving us.

[Sidenote: _Plenty of Fish taken._]

Having one Day observ’d, that the Water work’d and bubbled up, and afterwards perceiving it was occasion’d by the Fish skipping from Place to Place, I caused a Net to be brought, and we took a prodigious Quantity of Fish, among which were many _Dorado’s_ or Gilt-Heads, Mullets and others about as big as a Herring, which afforded us good Food for several Days. This fishery, which I caused to be often follow’d, was a great Help towards our Subsistance.

[Sidenote: _Rattle Snake bites Mr._ le Gros.]

About that Time, and on _Easter-day_ that Year, an unfortunate Accident befell Monsieur _le Gros_. After Divine Service he took a Gun to go kill Snipes about the Fort. He shot one, which fell into a Marsh; he took off his Shoes and Stockings to fetch it out, and returning, through Carelessness trod upon a Rattle Snake, so call’d, because it has a Sort of Scale on the Tail, which makes a Noise. The Serpent bit him a little above the Ankle, he was carefully dress’d and look’d after, yet after having endur’d very much, he dy’d at last, as I shall mention in its Place. Another more unlucky Accident befell us, one of our Fishermen swimming about the Net to gather the Fish, was carry’d away by the Current, and could not be help’d by us.

[Sidenote: _May 1685_]

[Sidenote: _Salt found in Pools._]

Our Men sometimes went about several little Salt Water Lakes, that were near our Fort, and found on the Banks a Sort of flat Fishes, like Turbots asleep, which they struck with sharp pointed Sticks, and they were good Food. Providence also shew’d us that there was Salt made by the Sun, upon several little Salt Water Pools there were in divers Places, for having observ’d that there grew on them a Sort of white Substance, like the Cream upon Milk, I took care every Day to send and fetch that Scum off, which prov’d to be a very white and good Salt, whereof I gather’d a Quantity, and it did us good Service.

[Sidenote: Indians _come to the Fort_.]

Some of our Hunters having seen a Parcel of wild Goats running as if they were frighted, judg’d they were pursued by the _Indians_, and came for Refuge to the Fort, and to give me Notice. Accordingly some Time after, we discover’d a Parcel of Natives, who came and posted themselves on an Eminence, within Cannon Shot, some of them drew off from the rest and approach’d the Fort by the Way of the Downs. I caused our Men immediately to handle their Arms, and wet Blankets to be laid on our Huts, to prevent their being burnt by the Fire the Savages sometimes shoot with their Arrows. All this Time those who had separated themselves from the rest, being three in Number, still drew nearer, making Signs for us to go to them; but Monsieur _de la Sale_ had forbid me having any Commerce with them; however, since they had neither Bows nor Arrows, we made signs to them to draw near, which they did without hesitating.

We went out to meet them. Monsieur _Moranget_ made them sit down, and they gave us to understand by Signs, that their People were hunting near us; being able to make no more of what they said. Monsieur _Moranget_ was for knocking out their Brains, to revenge their having murder’d our Companions, but I would not consent to it, since they had come confiding in us. I made Signs to them to be gone, which they did as fast as they could, some small Shot we fir’d into the Air making them run, and a Cannon Shot, I pointed towards the rising Ground, where the rest were, put them all to Flight.

These Accidents made us double our Guards, since we were at open War with that crafty Nation, which let slip no Opportunity to surprize us, and therefore Penalties were appointed for such as should be found asleep upon Sentinel; the Wooden-Horse was set up for them without Remission; and by Means of such Precautions we sav’d our Lives.

[Sidenote: _June 1685_]

[Sidenote: _Second Settlement._]

Thus we spent the rest of the Month, till the Beginning of _June_. In the mean Time, Monsieur _de la Sale_ had begun to make another Settlement, in the Place he before told us of, looking upon it as better, because it was further up the Country.[66] To that Purpose he sent to us the Sieur _de Villeperdry_ with two Canoes and Orders for the Sieur _Moranget_ to repair to him, if he were recover’d, and that all the Men should march, except 30 of the ablest to make a good Defence, who were to stay with me in the Fort. The rest being seventy Persons, as well Men and Women as Children, set up with the Sieur _Moranget_; and we being but a small Number remaining, I caused the Fort to be brought into a less Compass, to save posting so many Sentinels.

[Sidenote: _A Conspiracy discover’d._]

[Sidenote: _July 1685_]

Our little Company began to take Satisfaction in the Ease of getting and the Nature of our Provisions, which a greater Number has more Difficulty to be supply’d with, and which we had Plenty of, by Means of Hunting and Fishing, those being our principal Employments, and we liv’d well enough contented, expecting to be remov’d. However there were some Malcontents, who resolv’d to desert; but finding a Difficulty to put it in Execution, for that they could neither get Arms, nor Powder nor Ball, because the Sieur _le Gros_ and I kept all lock’d up, and were very vigilant, that none might be lavishly spent, they took the cruel Resolution to rid themselves of us.

That bloody Massacre was to begin by me, when I was asleep, and then to proceed to the Sieur _le Gros_, who lay in the Magazine, or Warehouse, and was in no Condition to defend himself, because his Leg was still swollen, and put him to much Pain. The Execution was to be by stabbing. One of the Conspirators reveal’d this to the Sieur _Devault_, a Hunter, who immediately came and acquainted me. I did not just then take Notice of what I had been told; but in the Evening, when they return’d from hunting, I caused one to be secur’d, who presently confess’d all. His Accomplice was also seiz’d, and it was very troublesome to secure them till the Time when we should remove.

About the Middle of _July_, the Bark _la Belle_ came and anchor’d near us. An Order was brought me from Monsieur _de la Sale_, directing me to put aboard it all the Effects that were in our Fort, to make a Float of the Timber I had caused to be squar’d, if Time would permit, if not to bury it in the Ground. Every Man set his Hand to the Work, with all possible Diligence, and our two Prisoners were put aboard, as was also Monsieur _le Gros_ and his Surgeon, with all our Effects.

The Float was begun with immense Labour; but the Weather proving very Stormy, and holding very long, I was oblig’d to cause what had been done to be taken in Pieces, and to bury the Timber in the Sand, the best we could, that the Natives might not find it.

[Sidenote: _The First Fort abandon’d._]

We then set out towards the Place where the _Indians_ had been encamp’d, when Monsieur _de la Sale_ went the first time to see them. We found no Creature, and lay there that Night, and so proceeded along the Sea Coast, without any Accident, to the Camp of the Sieur _Hurie_, which was a Post in the Way, where Monsieur _de la Sale_ had order’d all our Effects to be laid up. It had no other Inclosure but Chests and Barrels; but there was nothing to fear from the _Europeans_.

[Sidenote: _Ill posture of the 2d. Settlement._]

We spent the Night at that Post, and two Canoes coming thither the next Morning, I went aboard one of them, with Part of my Company, and join’d Monsieur _de la Sale_ the next Day, at the Place where he had resolv’d to make his new Settlement. I gave him an Account of all that had happen’d, and was amaz’d to see Things so ill begun and so little advanc’d. As for the Plantation, the Seed and Grain put into the Ground, was either lost through Drought, or eaten by Birds or Beasts. There were several Dead, and among them the Sieur _de Villeperdry_; many sick, and of that Number Monsieur _Cavalier_ the Priest; no Shelter but a little square Place stak’d in, where the Powder was and some Casks of Brandy; many other Inconveniences there were, which made all Things appear in a miserable Condition.

[Sidenote: _Hard Labour._]

It was requisite to think of building a large Lodgement, Monsieur _de la Sale_ design’d it, but the Difficulty was to get proper Timber for Building. There was a little Wood, where a good Quantity might be had, but it was a League up the Country, and we had neither Carts nor Horses to carry it; however Monsr. _de la Sale_ sent Workmen thither, with others to guard them. The Trees were cut down and squar’d, but the Carpenters were so ignorant, that Monsr. _de la Sale_ was forc’d to act the Master Builder, and to mark out the Pieces for the Work he design’d. Some of those Pieces of Timber were dragg’d to the Camp, over the Grass and Weeds the Plain was cover’d with; afterwards the Carriage of a Gun was made use of; but all cost so much Labour, that the ablest Men were quite spent.

[Sidenote: _Aug. 1685_]

[Sidenote: _Carpenter lost._]

This excessive Toil, the poor Sustenance the labouring Men had, and that often retrench’d as a Penalty for having fail’d in doing their Duty; the Uneasiness Monsieur _de la Sale_ was under to see nothing succeed as he had imagin’d, and which often made him insult the Men, when there was little Reason for it; All these things together afflicted very many so sensibly, that they visibly declin’d, and above thirty dy’d. The Loss of so many Men was follow’d by that of the Master Carpenter, who was returning one Evening with me; but I happening to step aside to kill some wild Fowl, when I came to our Habitation I found him not, and it was never known what became of him; an Accident which added to our Vexation, for tho’ he had but little Skill at his Trade, yet we stood in Need of him.

Notwithstanding all those Disappointments, enough Timber was carry’d or rather dragg’d, to build the House Monsieur _de la Sale_ designed, and he was himself the Architect. He mark’d out the Lengths, the Tenants and Mortises, and made good the Defect of the Workmen and calling to Mind that I had bury’d several Pieces of Timber at our first Habitation, which might be of Use, he order’d me to take two Canoes and 20 men, to go fetch them, in the Bark _la Belle_, which was with us.

Being come to the Place, we found the Natives had discover’d our Timber, and carry’d away some Planks, to pick out the Nails there were in them, which they value very much, to point their Arrows. We labour’d to make a Float, loaded the Bark _la Belle_ with the rest of the Planks and other Effects, and set out again. Some of the Natives appear’d whilst we were at Work, but seeing us advance towards them, with our Arms in our Hands, they fled.

[Sidenote: _Second Settlement._]

[Sidenote: _Sep. 1685_]

We return’d safe to Monsieur _de la Sale_, who was glad to see us, tho’ we had lost one of the Canoes, for want of its being well made fast to the Float; but the Timber we brought was a mighty help towards carrying on his Design, and much fitter than that we had hew’d in the Wood, with so much Labour; so that this Timber occasion’d the raising another Structure contiguous to the former. All was cover’d with Planks, and Bullocks Hides over them. The Apartments were divided, and all of them well cover’d. The Stores had a Place apart, and that Dwelling had the name of St. _Lewis_ given it, as well as the Neighbouring Bay.[67]

[Sidenote: _Mr._ le Gros _dies and others_.]

The Sieur _le Gros_, who had remain’d aboard the Bark _La Belle_, ever since the first Voyage she made to our former Habitation, was carry’d ashore to the new One, and his Leg still swelling, the Surgeon was apprehensive of a Mortification, and advis’d him to consent to have it cut off. He did so, tho’ with Regret, the Operation was made, but a Fever follow’d immediately, and he liv’d but two Days, dying on the Feast of the Decollation of St. _John Baptist_, much lamented by all Men, and particularly by Monsieur _de la Sale_, to whom he was very serviceable, by reason of his general Knowledge, and his particular Fidelity towards him. Monsieur _Carpentier_, Son to the Master of the Works and the Sieur _Thibault_, both of Roan, and some others, dy’d about the same time.

[Sidenote: _River of Bullocks._]

Monsieur _de la Sale_ being desirous to take a Progress, to find his fatal _Missisipi_ River, and only expecting the Recovery of his Brother Monsieur _Cavalier_, who was to bear him Company, he began to make some Preparations towards it, and in the mean time, took some small Journeys of four or five Leagues about, but could learn nothing further, than that it was a very fine Country, hem’d in on one Side by a small Mountain, which appear’d at about Fifteen or Twenty Leagues distance; beautify’d with very fine Trees, and water’d by many little Rivers, whereof that, on which we had built our Habitation was the least. We call’d it _la Rivière aux Bœufs_, that is the River of Bullocks, by reason of the great Number of them there was about it. These Bullocks are very like ours, there are Thousands of them, but instead of Hair they have a very long curl’d Sort of Wool.[68]

Monsieur _de la Sale_ Studying all Ways to find out the River _Missisipi_, imagin’d it might fall into the adjacent Bay, and resolv’d to go view all the Coasts about it, and to make use of the Bark _la Belle_. Accordingly he order’d me to repair to the said Bark, with five Men and a Canoe, into which he put his Cloaths, and other Effects in several Chests.

That short Voyage was very troublesome to us, by reason of the foul Weather, with contrary Winds and Storms, which had like to have overwhelm’d us, and what was still worse, we did not find the Bark, where we had left her. We went on a League further, to no Purpose, and Provisions beginning to fall short, because we had been six Days on the Way, instead of three, we resolv’d to return to the Place from whence we came.

[Sidenote: _Boat of the Bark lost._]

Monsieur _de la Sale_ seeing us return at a distance, came to meet us. Our Report troubled him for the Bark, which he stood in need of, so that he resolv’d to go himself to seek her, imbark’d in a Canoe, and sent me another Way, in another. After having wander’d about all that Day, the next Night and the Day following, we at last perceiv’d her, where she lay under Shelter in a little Creek, having been in Danger of Perishing by the foul Weather we had been in, and had lost her Boat, which was not well made fast.

[Sidenote: _Oct. 1685_]

The Bark was also discover’d by Monsieur _de la Sale_, who was on the other side, which made him draw near and land, whence he sent his Canoe to the said Bark, and Monsieur _Moranget_ who commanded it, went aboard to meet him. The Loss of the Boat troubled Monsieur _de la Sale_, I sent a Canoe to bring him, but to no Purpose; however the Trunks were put aboard the Bark.

[Sidenote: _What Stores they had._]

[Sidenote: _Nov. 1685_]

Monsieur _Cavalier_ the Priest, being recover’d Monsieur _de la Sale_ prepar’d to set out with all Speed. He was pleas’d to Honour me with the Command, during his Absence, and left me an Inventory of all that was in our Habitation, consisting of Eight Pieces of Cannon, two Hundred Firelocks, as many Cutlaces, an Hundred Barrels of Powder, three Thousand Weight of Ball, about three Hundred Weight of other Lead, some Bars of Iron, twenty Packs of Iron to make Nails, some Iron Work and Tools, as Hatchets and the like.

As for Provisions, all that were left me amounted to twenty Casks of Meal, one Cask and a half of Wine, three Quarters of a Cask of Brandy, and for living Creatures some few Swine, a Cock and a Hen; which is very short of what has been Publish’d by the Author of a Book entitled, _The first Establishment in New France_: but the Reason of it is, that he compiled his Work upon the Credit of Relations, which were as false as to the Point of the Ammunition and Provisions, remaining in our Habitation, when Monsieur _de la Sale_ set out that Time, as concerning the Fort well condition’d, and the Magazines or Storehouses under Ground, which are all imaginary, there being Nothing but the House I have mention’d, pallisado’d, with some old Stakes.

Monsr. _de la Sale_ farther order’d me not to receive any Men of those he took along with him, unless they brought an Order from him in Writing; nor to hold or admit of any Communication with the Natives, but rather to fire upon them, and some other Particulars he thought fit to be observ’d. He had made himself a Coat of Mail with small Laths, to secure himself against the Arrows, which he took along with him, he also took the Canoes, and promis’d to send me one back. Five Cannon Shot were the Signal of his Departure.

[Sidenote: _Monsr._ de la Sale _goes out to discover_.]

[Sidenote: _St._ Lewis_’s Bay_.]

He took his Way along the lower Part of the River, to march by Land along the neighbouring Bay, which was call’d of St. _Lewis_, the Canoes keeping within Sight. I was left in the Habitation with thirty four Persons, Men, Women and Children, and of that Number were three _Recolet_ Friars, the Sieur _Hurie_, who was to command in my Absence, one of the Sieurs _Duhaut_, the Sieurs _Thibault_ and a Surgeon.

Our Provisions being very small, and it being requisite to spare them, for the Sick, we were oblig’d to apply our selves to Fishing and Shooting. Both of them at first prov’d very unsuccessful, especially the latter; because we were not yet well vers’d in them, and Monsieur _de la Sale_ had taken our Huntsman along with him; but at length, Necessity made us more expert. We kill’d Beeves, some of which I caus’d to be dry’d, and they were a considerable Help to subsist us.

[Sidenote: _Hunter dies with Cold._]

Some Days after, the Canoe Monsieur _de la Sale_ had promis’d me, arrived with three Soldiers, who brought us the News of the Loss of the Huntsman Monsieur _de la Sale_ had taken along with him, and who had been found dead with Cold in a Ditch, where he had lain down to rest after hunting, which troubled us all very much. They also inform’d us, that Monsr. _de la Sale_ advancing towards some Dwellings the Natives had abandon’d, after a small Resistance, some of whom had been wounded as they fled, they had taken and brought a Girl and a Woman, who was shot thro’ the Thigh, of which she dy’d.[69]

[Sidenote: _Dec. 1685_]

The Canoe was a great Help to us to carry what we kill’d, which being brought to our Habitation, found Employment for all Persons, some to flea, others to cut up, and others to dry it. At other Times, I set some of our men to throw up a Trench about our Habitation.

[Sidenote: _Jan. 1686_]

[Sidenote: Duhaut _returns from Mr._ de la Sale.]

Thus we spent our Time, till about the Middle of _January, 1686_, when being all, one Evening, in our Mansion, the Sentinel came in to acquaint me, that he heard a Voice towards the River; some men ran thither immediately, and found a Man in a Canoe, crying, _Dominick_, which was the Name of young _Duhaut_, who was with us. The Sight of that made me apprehensive lest some Disaster was befallen Monsr. _de la Sale_. I drew near, and perceiv’d it was _Duhaut_ the Elder, that was return’d.

I ask’d, him whether he had any Letters from Monsieur _de la Sale_, he answer’d he had not. It gave me some Uneasiness, considering I was forbid admitting any Man without an Order in Writing, and I was almost resolv’d to secure him; but the Account he gave me of the Occasion of his returning wholly clear’d him. I admitted him, and he told me the whole Matter as follows.

Monsr. _de la Sale_, having staid some Time on the Sea Shore, near the Place where the Bark was at Anchor he resolv’d to try the Anchoring Places of the Coasts round about, to know how near the Bark _la Belle_ might come. To that Purpose he sent the Pilot with 5 of the best Men to sound.

[Sidenote: _Six Men killed by Natives._]

The Pilot did as he was order’d, he sounded and observed the proper Places to come near several Coasts. At Night he and his Men being in all likelyhood tir’d, they thought fit to go Ashore and lie upon the Land. They made a Fire, perhaps to dress some Meat; but neglecting to stand upon their Guard, they were surpriz’d, and all six of them kill’d by the Savages; who also broke their Canoe, and thus reveng’d themselves for the Irruption Monsr. _de la Sale_ had lately made among them.

More Time being elaps’d than Monsieur _de la Sale_ had allotted those Men to return, he grew uneasy, and went himself along the Coast, to see if any News could be had of them, and keeping along the Shore, he found the sad Remains of those unfortunate Wretches, whose Carcasses scatter’d about, were torn and almost devour’d by Wolves or Wild Dogs, a Spectacle which went to his Heart.

However this Loss, which afflicted him, and particularly for the Sake of the Pilot, who was an able Man, did not quite cast him down; but exerting himself against his Misfortunes, he caus’d Flesh to be dry’d, and with that and the other Provisions he victuall’d the Bark _la Belle_. He caus’d it to advance into the Bay, put a good Number of Men on Board to secure it, among whom were Monsieur _Chedeville_, the Priest, and _Planterose_ of _Roan_, and order’d them not to stir from that Place till they heard from him, and not to go Ashore, unless with a good Guard and necessary Precautions.

Next, he chose out Twenty Men, imbark’d on two Canoes he had left, and being come Ashore, caus’d the Canoes to be sunk in the River, and every Man to take up his Bundle, consisting of Arms, Tools, some Utensils for the Kitchin, a few Goods, to trade with the Natives, if he should find any sociable, and so advanc’d into the Country, to try if any Notice could be had of the _Missisipi_.

[Sidenote: La Maligne _River_.]

After several Days March, they came to a good pleasant River, which they afterwards call’d _la Maligne_. Monsieur _de la Sale_ marching at the Head of the Company, and having order’d Monsieur _Moranget_ to keep in the Rear; it happen’d that _Duhaut_ stopping to mend his Snapsack[70] and his Shoes, which were in a bad Condition; the Sieur _Moranget_ coming up, commanded him to March, he desired him to stay a little. _Moranget_ would not, but held on his Way; _Duhaut_ follow’d some Time after, but having stay’d too long, he could not overtake the Company, and found himself about Night fall in a Plain full of Weeds, where there were several Tracks of the Way Cattle had gone, but knew not which of them to take. He fir’d his Piece several Times, without hearing any thing of his Company, and was oblig’d to pass the Night in that same Place.

[Sidenote: _Strange Adventure._]

[Sidenote: _Feb. 1686_]

In the Morning he shot again, spent the Day and Night again in that Place, so that not knowing what to do, he return’d the same Way he had gone, and after a Month’s March, for he travell’d only by Night, for Fear of meeting with the Savages, living upon what he kill’d with much Difficulty and Danger, having before spent all his own Provisions; at length after most unaccountable Hardships and Sufferings, he arriv’d at the Place where the Canoes had been sunk. He took one of them up, with incredible Labour, and too long to relate, and so came to our Habitation of St. _Lewis_. Thus it pleas’d God that he who was to be one of the Murderers of Monsieur _de la Sale_, should come off safe, and surmount almost infinite Dangers.

This Account, which seem’d to carry the Face of Probability, prevail’d with me to receive the Sieur _Duhaut_, and in Reality I could do no otherwise, and I made it my Business to examine into his Behaviour, but could find Nothing to lay to his Charge. We continued some Time longer as we had been before; during the which, I caus’d another little Wooden Structure to be made, of Timber, I had got together, and in it I lodg’d the Women and Maidens by themselves. Having hitherto said Nothing of the Situation of our Dwelling of St. _Lewis_, nor of the Nature of the Country we were in, I will here venture upon a plain but true Description.

[Sidenote: _Description of the Country and Dwelling at St._ Lewis.]

We were in about the 27th Degree of North Latitude, two Leagues up the Country, near the Bay of St. _Lewis_ and the Bank of the River _aux Bœufs_, on a little Hillock, whence we discover’d vast and beautiful Plains, extending very far to the Westward, all level and full of Greens, which afford Pasture to an infinite Number of Beeves and other Creatures.

[Sidenote: _The Land._]

Turning from the West to the Southward, there appear’d other Plains adorn’d with several little Woods of several Sorts of Trees. Towards the South and East was the Bay, and the Plains that hem it in from the East; to the Northward, was the River running along by a little Hill,[71] beyond which there were other large Plains, with some little Tufts of Wood at small Distances, terminating in a Border of Wood, which seem’d to us to be very high.

[Sidenote: _Living Creatures._]

Between that little Hill and our Dwelling, was a Sort of Marsh, and in it Abundance of wild Fowl, as Curlies, Water-Hens and other Sorts. In the Marsh there were little Pools full of Fish. We had also an infinite Number of Beeves, wild Goats, Rabbits, Turkeys, Bustards, Geese, Swans, Feldifares, Plovers, Teal, Partridges and many other Sorts of Fowl fit to eat, and among them one call’d _le grand Gosier_, or, the great Gullet, because it has a very large one; another as big and Fleshy as a Pullet, which we called the _Spatula_, because it’s Beak is shap’d like one, and the Feathers of it being of a pale Red, are very beautiful.

[Sidenote: _Fish._]

As for Fish, we had several Sorts in the River and in the Lakes I have mention’d. The River afforded a Sort of Barbles, differing from ours in Roundness, in their having three Bones sticking out, one on the Back, the others on each Side of the Head, and in the Flesh, which is like Cod, and without Scales. The River supply’d us with Abundance of other Fishes, whose Names we know not. The Sea afforded us Oysters, Eeles, Trouts, a Sort of red Fishes and others whose long, sharp and hard Beak tore all our Nets.

[Sidenote: _Tortoises._]

[Sidenote: _Venomous Creatures._]

We had Plenty both of Land and Sea Tortoises, whose Eggs serv’d to season our Sauces. The Land Tortoises differ from those of the Sea, as being smaller, round, and their Shell more beautiful. They hide themselves in Holes they find or make in the Earth. It was looking for these Tortoises, that one of our Surgeons, thrust his Arm into a Hole, and was bit by some venomous Creature, which we suppos’d to be a Sort of Toad, having four Feet, the Top of his Back sharp and very hard, with a little Tail. Whether it was this Creature, or a Snake, his Arm swelled very much, however he was cured by such Applications as were made Use of; but it cost him a Finger was cut off.

[Sidenote: _Rattle-Snakes._]

Among the venomous Sorts of Snakes, as Vipers, Asps and others, whereof there are many, those call’d Rattle-Snakes are the most common. They generally lye among the Brambles, where they make a Noise by the Motion of two Scales they have at the End of their Tail, which is heard at a considerable Distance, and therefore they are call’d Rattle-Snakes. Some of our Men had eaten of them and found their Flesh was not amiss, and when we had kill’d any of them, our Swine made a good Meal.

[Sidenote: _Alligators._]

There are also many Alligators in the Rivers, some of them of a frightful Magnitude and Bulk. I kill’d one that was between four and five Foot about, and twenty Foot in Length, on which our Swine feasted. This Creature has very short Legs, insomuch that it rather drags along than walks, and it is easy to follow the Tract of it, either among the Weeds or on the Sands, where it has been. It is very ravenous, and attacks either Men or Beasts, when they are within Reach in the River, and comes also ashore to seek for Food. It has this particular Quality, that it flies from such as pursue, and pursues those who fly from it. I have shot many of them dead.

[Sidenote: _Trees._]

The Woods are composed of Trees of several Sorts. There are Oaks, some of them ever green and never without Leaves; others like ours in _Europe_, bearing a Fruit much like our Galls, and lose their Leaves in Winter, and another Sort not unlike ours in _France_, but the Bark of them thicker, these as well as the second Sort bear an Acorn, differing from ours both in Taste and Bigness.

[Sidenote: _Dangerous Fruit._]

There is a Sort of Tree, which bears small Berries, which, when ripe, are red, and indifferent pleasant. It bears twice a Year, but the second Crop never ripens. There is another Tree, bearing a Fruit not unlike _Cassia_, in Taste and Virtue.

There are others of the Sort I had seen in the Islands, whose Leaves are like Rackets, whence the Tree bears the Name. The Blossoms grow out about the Leaves, and of them comes a Fruit somewhat resembling Figs, but the Leaves and the Fruit are full of Prickles, which must be carefully rubb’d and taken off, before it is eaten, else they dangerously inflame the Mouth and the Throat, and may prove mortal, as happen’d to one of our Soldiers, who had eaten of them too greedily, and without that Precaution.

I have seen some Trees resembling the Palm, whose lofty and long Branches spread like that call’d the _Latanier_, bearing a Fruit, said to be indifferent good. Others the same Sort, but whose Leaves are like Gutters, harsh and so sharp pointed, that they will pierce the thickest Stuffs. This Tree has a Sprout on the Top, which shoots out Flowers in the Shape of a Nosegay, of a whitish yellow, and some of them at the Top of that Sprout have sixty or eighty Flowers hanging down, not unlike the Flower de Luce, and after those Flowers follows a Fruit as long as a Man’s Finger, and thicker than the Thumb, full of little Seeds, so that there is scarce any Thing but the Rhind fit to eat, the Taste whereof is sweet and delicate.

[Sidenote: _Vines._]

There are Abundance of creeping Vines and others, that run up the Bodies and to the Tops of Trees, which bear plenty of Grapes, fleshy and sharp, not to compare to the Delicacy of ours in _Europe_; but we made Verjuice of them, which was very good in Sauce. Mulberry Trees are numerous along the Rivers, their Fruit is smaller, but sweeter and more delicious than ours; their Leaves are beautiful and large, which would be of good Use for feeding of Silk-worms.

[Sidenote: _Plants._]

[Sidenote: _March 1686_]

The Plains are strew’d with a Sort of small Sorrel, the Leaf whereof is like Trefoil, and the Taste of it sharp like ours. There are Abundance of small Onions, no bigger than the Top of a Man’s Finger, but very well tasted, and when the Heat has scorch’d up the Plains, that Plant shoots out first, and produces Flowers which look like an agreeable Enamel. Nothing is more beautiful than to behold those vast Plains, when the Blossoms appear; a thousand Sorts of different Colours, whereof many[72] have an agreeable Scent, adorn those Fields, and afford a most charming Object to the Eye. I have observed some that smelt like a Tuberose, but the Leaf resembles our Borage. I have seen Primroses, having a Scent like ours, _African_ Gilliflowers, and a Sort of purple wind Flowers. The Autumn Flowers are almost all of them yellow, so that the Plains look all of that Colour.

The Climate is mild and temperate, tho’ we were in about 27 Degrees of North Latitude, and yet the Seeds I caused to be sow’d did not thrive; whether it was because they had been soak’d in the Sea Water, or for any other Reason. Some came up pretty well, as Pompions, Melons, Parsnips and Endive; but the Beasts and the Insects, left us not much. When we come to the _Cenis_ and have travers’d so many Nations as lay between us and them, I shall speak of the Religion, Manners, Cloathing, Houses and Customs of the Natives, wherein they differ but little from one another, tho’ of several Countries.

Monsieur _de la Sale_ had been now long gone, and we began to be in Pain for him, when about the Middle of _March 1686_, hapning to be on the Top of the House, I spied seven or eight Persons coming towards us. I presently ordered eight arm’d Men to follow me, to go meet them; and as soon as we drew near them, we knew Monsieur _de la Sale_, Monsieur _Cavelier_, his brother, Monsieur _Moranget_, his Nephew and five or six Men with them, the rest being gone another Way to find out the Bark _la Belle_, to give Notice of Monsieur _de la Sale’s_ Arrival.

[Sidenote: _Monsieur_ de la Sale _returns_.]

They were in a bad Condition, their Cloaths ragged, Monsieur _Cavelier’s_ short Cassock hung in Tatters; most of them had not Hats, and their Linen was no better; however the Sight of Monsieur _de la Sale_ rejoyc’d us all. The Account he gave us of his Journey reviv’d our Hopes, tho’ he had not found the fatal River, and we thought only of making ourselves as merry as we could. Only the Sight of the Sieur _Duhaut_ interrupted it for some Time. Monsieur _de la Sale_ ask’d me in an angry Manner, why I had receiv’d him, and _Duhaut_ having given his Reasons, as I and my Men did,[73] we were all satisfy’d.

[Sidenote: _The Bark_ la Belle _lost_.]

The next Day, the Sieurs _le Barbier_, _Bihorel_, _le Petit_, _Cavelier_, the Nephew, the Surgeon and others, whom Monsieur _de la Sale_ had sent to find out and carry Advice to the Bark _la Belle_, return’d, and said they could not find her, which was another fresh Cause of Much Uneasiness to Monsieur _de la Sale_. He had been guilty of the Fault of putting aboard her, his Cloaths, his Linen, his Papers and all his best Effects, of all which he was then in the utmost Need. Besides, that Loss broke all the Measures he had concerted during his last Expedition, because he had resolv’d to cause the said Bark to go up one of the Rivers he had discover’d, to advance towards those Nations with whom he had contracted some Friendship, and to send me in the same Bark, with his Nephew _Moranget_, to the Islands to seek for some Assistance, or else to return by Sea to look for his River.

[Sidenote: _Apr. 1686_]

All these Designs being disappointed, he resolv’d to set out a second Time, and travel by Land, to find out his River.[74] He staid to rest him a while, and to provide for his Departure, but having neither Linen nor Cloaths, I supply’d him with some I had; I also afforded some Linen to Monsieur _Cavelier_, his Brother and Monsieur _Moranget_, his Nephew. All I had was at their Service, and I depriv’d myself of all that was fit for them, even to ten or twelve Pounds of strings of Beads and some Knives and Nails,[75] which Monsieur _de la Sale_ took.

The Sieur _Duhaut_, having several Effects, as Linen, Hatchets and other Tools and Commodities, which had been sav’d from the Shipwreck, Monsieur _de la Sale_ took Linen to make Shirts, for such as wanted, as also the Tools they stood in Need of. The Cloaths belonging to Messieurs _Thibault_, _le Gros_ and _Carpentier_, who were dead, were also distributed. A great Belt I had, serv’d to make Shoes for Monsieur _de la Sale_ and Monsieur _Cavelier._

[Sidenote: _Monsieur_ de la Sale _sets out upon another Expedition_.]

All Things being thus provided, Monsieur _de la Sale_ took twenty Men along with him, among whom were Monsieur _Cavelier_ his Brother, F. _Anastasius_ a Recolet, Monsieur _Moranget_ his Nephew, the Sieurs _Bihorel_, _le Clerk_, _Hurier_, _Duhaut_ the younger, _Hiens_ his Surgeon, and his Servants. He left behind those, who were not fit to undertake that second Journey, among whom were little Monsieur _Cavelier_[76] his Nephew, the Sieur _Barbier_, _Canadien_ and some others. Each of the Travellers made up his Pack, and they set out towards the latter End of _April 1686_,[77] after having given me the necessary Orders, and we parted without Ceremony, Monsieur _de la Sale_ desiring it should be so.

[Sidenote: _What was saved of the Bark_ la Belle.]

[Sidenote: _May 1686_]