My old opponent had still a post in this district, and I was directed
to send a party in opposition to him; which being done, I remained
quiet until the winter communication became practicable, when I
determined on paying a visit to my friends in the Fort Coulonge
district. The distance being short, and my object having no connexion
with the Company's interests, I set off on my pleasure jaunt alone.
I put up the first night at a sort of tavern just then opened by an
American at the upper end of the Chats' Lake, the only habitation at
that time in the quarter, whence I started at early dawn, expecting
to reach Fort Coulonge before night. The lumbermen having commenced
sledging their winter supplies, the road formed by these vehicles
presented a hard, smooth surface, on which I made good speed, as I had
nothing to encumber me, save my blanket and tomahawk.

Arriving at a long bend of the river about 2 P.M., I put on my
snow-shoes to cut across the point and meet the road again, flattering
myself that I should thus shorten the distance some two or three
miles. The weather being mild, and the sun overcast, I was as much at
a loss to find my way in the woods as if I had been blindfolded; I
nevertheless continued my onward course, and again came on the road. I
proceeded in high spirits for a considerable time, when I perceived a
man before me going in the same direction with myself; quickening my
pace I soon came up with him, and asked him if he was bound for the
Fort?

"I guess I don't know of any fort in this part of the world," said he.

"What! not know of Fort Coulonge, and you so near to it? are you not
going there?"