Sylvester was hired by William Cormack in 1822 to guide him across Newfoundland in search of Beothuk encampments. In fact, he followed the advice of his Elders and guided Cormack away from the Beothuk. Having parted ways with Cormack at St. George's Bay, Sylvester decides to go out on his own, in search of the winter camp of the last of the remaining Beothuk.