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the pay of Russians in the employ of our Company;  the Major gave to those men serving as Interpreters and guides, one Dollar per day while on the road, and fifty cents per day while at Post.  I scarcely know if this will meet your approval, but if I may be allowed to suggest, I would advise that those men holding such positions as Guides and Interpreters, should receive good pay, as it insures their working for the interests of our company, whereas if they be ordered into our service, their zeal will be little, and their energy less.  I find some men in the Russian
Company, who are intelligent, and if they are employed, could be made very useful to the company, such men as Talyik Nikifor, and V. Hanson, who understand the natives and their language;  men who have served in our company, could, by being secured, render valuable service to the Company.  [[marginalia]] (30) [[/marginalia]]

[[marginalia]] (10) [[/marginalia]]
On the 21" of May, after breaking up of the ice, Messrs [[?Ketchum]] and Lebarge, accompanied by Lukine, the guide, proceeded to Fort Youkon, in a three hole [[?Baidarka]], (skin boat) and from a letter which I received from Mr. [[?Ketchum]] previous to his departure, he stated that I might expect him at this point by the 4" or 5" of July.  On the 25" of May, Messrs Pease, Adams & Smith left Nulato in a large [[?Baidara]], carrying the remains of the late commander, and proceeded