CHAPTER XVII.

THE X Y COMPANY.

"Le Marquis" Simon McTavish unpopular--Alexander Mackenzie, his rival--Enormous activity of the "Potties"--Why called X Y--Five rival posts at Souris--Sir Alexander, the silent partner--Old Lion of Montreal roused--"Posts of the King"--Schooner sent to Hudson Bay--Nor'-Westers erect two posts on Hudson Bay--Supreme folly--Old and new Nor'-Westers unite--List of partners 148