in 1604 Jean de Biencourt, Seigneur de Poutrincourt,
whose ancestors had been illustrious in Picardy for five
hundred years. Champlain made a third, joining the
expedition as geographer rather than shipmaster. Lescarbot
and Hebert came two years later.

The company left Havre in two ships--on March 7, 1604,
according to Champlain, or just a month later, according
to Lescarbot. Although De Monts' commission gave him the
usual privilege of impressing convicts, the personnel of
his band was far above the average. Champlain's statement
is that it comprised about one hundred and twenty artisans,
and there were also 'a large number of gentlemen, of whom
not a few were of noble birth.' Besides the excitement
provided by icebergs, the arguments of priest and pastor
diversified the voyage, even to the point of scandal.
After crossing the Grand Bank in safety they were nearly
wrecked off Sable Island, but succeeded in reaching the
Acadian coast on May 8. From their landfall at Cap de la
Heve they skirted the coast-line to Port Mouton,
confiscating en route a ship which was buying furs in
defiance of De Monts' monopoly.

Rabbits and other game were found in abundance at Port
Mouton, but the spot proved quite unfit for settlement,
and on May 19 De Monts charged Champlain with the task
of exploring the coast in search of harbours. Taking a
barque of eight tons and a crew of ten men (together with
Ralleau, De Monts' secretary), Champlain set out upon
this important reconnaissance. Fish, game, good soil,