One hundred or one hundred and fifty men were required to
transfer goods, furs, etc., from the boats during the time of open
water. Generally they received advances from the Fur Company at the
beginning of summer, for they were always in debt to the company. On the
close of the open season they were paid the balance due them. After a
few days of idleness and gossip the money would be spent and want would
begin to press them. A new engagement with an advance would follow. The
agreement was signed, and so like an endless chain, the natives were
always held to the Company's interest. At Christmas, these workmen
received a portion of their advance, and as is well known, the company
relaxed somewhat its rules as to liquor selling at this season. At this
Christmas time of 1834 payments were being made and indulgence was
supreme, when a French half-breed named Larocque entered the office of
the accountant, Thomas Simpson, a relative of Sir George, and demanded
his pay in a disrespectful way. Simpson replied somewhat roughly, which
led Larocque to insult the officer of the company. Simpson seized the
fire poker and striking Larocque's head made an ugly wound on his scalp.
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