On their haunts, as on all other occasions, they are strict observers of meum and tuum; and this from principle, holding . theft in contempt; so that they are rarely guilty of it, though tempted by articles of much value. Neither do thé strong attempt to seize the prey of the weak; and I must do them the justice to say that, unless heated by liquor, or inflamed by revenge, their ideas of right and wrong and their practices in consequence of them, would, if more known, do them much honour. It is true, that having been often deceived by us in the purchase of lands, in trade, and other transactions, many

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of them begin now to act the same part. But this reflects most on those who set them the example.

As to your remark on their apparent repugnance to civilization, I must observe, that this is not owing to any viciousness of their nature, or want of capacity; as they have a strong genius for arts, and uncommon patience. I believe they are put to the English schools too late, and sent back too soon to their people, whose political maxim, Spartan like, is to discountenance all pursuits but war, holding all other knowledge as unworthy the dignity of man, and tending to enervate and divert them from that warfare on which they conceive their liberty and happiness depend. These sentiments constantly instilled into the minds of youth, and illustrated by examples. drawn from the contemptible state of the domesticated tribes, leave lasting impressions: and can hardly be defeated by an ordinary school education.