which mark with equal precision, the
state of civilization existing in any community, as the rank assigned
in it to females. In the rude and barbarous stages of society, they
are invariably regarded as inferior beings, [31] instruments of
sensual gratification, and unworthy the attention and respect of men.
As mankind advance to refinement, females gradually attain an
elevation of rank, and acquire an influence in society, which smoothes
the asperities of life and produces the highest polish, of which human
nature is susceptible.

Among the Indians there is, however rude they may be in other
respects, a great respect always paid to female chastity. Instances in
which it has been violated by them, if to be found at all, are
extremely few. However much the passion of revenge may stimulate to
acts of cruelty, the propensities of nature never lead them to
infringe the virtue of women in their power.

The general character of the Indians, was more estimable, when they
first became known to Europeans, than it is at present. This has been
ascribed to the introduction of ardent spirits among them--other
causes however, have conspired to produce the result.

The cupidity of those who were engaged in commerce with the natives,
too frequently prompted them to take every advantage, for self
aggrandizement, which they could obtain over the Indians. In the
lucrative traffic carried on with them, the influence of honesty
was not predominant--the real value of the commodity procured, was
never allowed; while upon every article given in exchange, extortion
alone affixed the price. These examples could not fail to have a
deteriorating effect upon their untutored minds; and we find them
accordingly losing their former regard for truth, honesty and
fidelity; and becoming instead deceitful, dishonest and treacherous.
Many of their ancient virtues however, are still practised by them.

The rights of hospitality are accorded to those who go among them,
with a liberality and sincerity which would reflect credit on
civilized man. And although it has been justly said that they rarely
forgive an enemy, yet is it equally true that they never forsake their
friends; to them they are always kind, generous and beneficent.

After the ceremony of introduction is over,[3] a captive enemy, [32]
who is adopted by them, is also treated with the utmost humanity and
attention. An Indian cheerfully divides his last morsel with an
adopted son or brother;