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8

Prof Baird, Col Bulkley orders are to build a line, from the head of Frazier to Behring Strait. And despite obstacles I shall finish the work in the time promised, if the supplies can be sent me in time.  I go in, via, Frazier & Pelly rivers, leaving here about May 5th and
New Westminster May 10th to 20th.  Telegrams repeated to me here.  Reach lower Youkon in July.  When I meet Col Bulkley and my men and supplies; return to Lake Babine before winter, having meantime established depots for provisions and trade, and made other arrangements. I want very much, Officers, men, and trained Indians from McKenzie's river to meet me in fall at Fort Youkon or the Laird river at the mouth of Dease River to help establish depots & for general purposes.  I can pay largely. Write this to Mr Hardsty, & the other base officer and tell them to engage all retiring servants at Portage La Loche, who can reach my line before winter.  For good & experienced men, and officers I will pay double the fur Company's regular Invoices.

Transcription Notes:
jeni92127 reviewed 29 Sept 2017 - "orders are" is "orders me" in the original - For the "leaving here about May 5th" entry, it's the "6th" - For the "other base" entry, the word where "base" is looks like it should be a different word, but I'm not sure what other word would fit. - "invoices" are "prices" in the original