Christianising those Indians would not only secure a lasting peace with them, but they would by this means form a barrier to our frontiers against any Indians that are more remote, and might be at war-with us. The security of our frontiers would contribute to the quick population of this Province, and among several-advantages of which this would be productive, the following is one--that as the lands are held of the crown, and pay quit rents, this branch of his majesty's revenue would be proportionably inereased. Our commerce with the Indians would also gain. by their conversion. For although it has been alledged by some who. knew little of Indian affairs, or thought superficially on the subject, that were the Indians converted to

1098 MEMORIAL CONCERNING THE IROQUOIS OR

Christianity, and civilized, it would injure our trade with them ; yet the reverse of this is evidently true. Indolence, idleness, -- and intemperance are inseparable concomitants of a savage life.

A Savage life also obstructs population. A civilised state, on

the contrary, naturally promotes industry, and the increase of

mankind. Of course our, trade with the Indians would be

benefited in proportion as they became more numerous and

industrious--the consequence of their being civilised, and

brought over to christianity. This reasoning is obvious and

just, and supported by experience, which is our surest guide in

such matters. The Mohawks, to mention no other instance, are

in some measure civilised. They cultivate land, several of them

have learned trades ; all have fixed habitations ; they have also