He was tall in stature, thin and refined in appearance.

He had a benignant face, his manner was easy and polite.
To the Indians he was especially interesting.

They caught the idea that being a man of title he was in some way closely connected with their Great Father the King.

Because of his generosity to them in making a treaty, they called him "The Silver Chief." He was the source of their treaty money.
It is said that some of the last party to reach his Colony had seen him at Kildonan in Scotland, where he had visited them, and encouraged them in their departure for the Colony.
His first duties were to the unfortunate settlers, who had been brought back from Jack River.
Lord Selkirk gathered the Colonists on the spot where the church and burial ground of St.John's are still found.

"The Parish," said he, "shall be Kildonan.