The _Maid of the North_ called at many harbours by the way and the
fame of Captain Hanks spread amongst the livyeres, as the native
Labradormen are called. He told them what fabulous prices he would pay
them for their furs in the spring when he came south, with open
water, and they promised him to a man to reserve the bulk of their
catch for him, and all had visions of coming wealth.
It was decided that they winter in the Harbour of God's Hope, just
north of Cape Harrigan, and after passing Indian Harbour the natives
were notified that if they wished any supplies during the winter they
could bring their furs there and get what they needed.
The Harbour of God's Hope was found to be a deep, narrow inlet, not as
well protected from the sea as might be desired, but still
comparatively well sheltered, and particularly advantageous from the
fact that the shores of the upper end of the inlet were wooded, an
essential feature, as it provided an abundance of good fuel, and the
supply on board was far from adequate for their needs.
The _Maid of the North_ was made as snug as possible for the
freeze-up, but could not be brought as close to shore as desirable,
because of shoals. However, her position was deemed quite safe, and
Skipper Sam experienced a sense of supreme satisfaction at his
achievements and the prospects for a profitable trade in the spring.
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