The houses of the two Companies are small and have a bleak northern aspect.

There are vast accumulations of driftwood on the shores of the lake, brought down by the river, which afford plenty of fuel.

The inhabitants live principally on the fish, which the lake at certain seasons furnishes in great abundance; of these the white-fish, trout, and poisson inconnu are considered the best.

They also procure moose, buffalo, and reindeer meat occasionally from their hunters; but these animals are generally found at the distance of several days' walk from the forts.

The Indians who trade here are Chipewyans.