hem who is perfectly conversant with our usages and customs;
and he has assumed the chiefship of the tribe."

"I had a visit from them myself yesterday," replied John, "and detained
two of their boys on my station. I expect to be able to make use of them
in many ways; and, if need be, I can keep them as hostages for the well
behaviour of their countrymen."

"I am afraid that you are labouring under a delusion," said Rainsfield;
"and you will find that you are adopting the very worst course you
could. By retaining those fellows on your station you will encourage the
others of the tribe to come on your run: indeed, while you detain these
boys, you will not be able to keep their friends away. And if they take
into their heads to rob you (which in all probability they will), the
two that you have in your service will be made by their fellows to
communicate regular intelligence of your movements; and you will find
you have been harbouring a viper in your bosom."

"I have already," replied John, "been inclined to think that kind
treatment towards the blacks is better policy than harshness;
conciliation is more natural than banishment; and I cannot think any
race of savages can be so morally depraved as to commit depredations on
their benefactors. They are far more likely to indulge in acts of
reprisal, where their evil passions are excited by cupidity, or
animated by a thirst to revenge some act of aggression or cruelty. For
my own part (and my brother agrees with me in the policy), I intend to
cultivate their good feeling, by acting towards them in a kindly manner;
of course with a certain degree of firmness; for I would resent any of
their peccadillos. I am fully cognizant of their predilection for
appropriation, and will take every precaution to prevent an exercise of
their propensities; but, at the same time, I can't reconcile myself to
the idea, of visiting petty delinquencies with the severity which you
recommend."

"Well, we shall see how you succeed," returned his companion; "I found
from experience it was perfectly impossible to preserve order, and
retain my property, while the black villains were permitted to overrun
my place; and I had no peace until I adopted stringent measures, and got
rid of their annoyance by expatriation. I don't believe your principle
of leniency is practicable, and am convinced you will soon have cause to
regret its trial, and will be brought to my way of thinking; therefore,
I should st