TREATMENT OF NATIVES. 249 



aside the utter uselessness of risking injury or death 

 to either side, it must be obvious that a sanguinary 

 result could only have excited vindictive feehngs, 

 which, in case any of Franklin's or other party should 

 afterwards be thrown on the coast, probably in a 

 reduced condition, woidd surely find vent in their 

 destruction. But it must, on the other hand, be 

 confessed that the usual moderation of the whites has 

 inspired the Esquimaux with contempt for their 

 corn-age, rather than a correct estimation of their 

 motives. It is most unwise unnecessarily to expose 

 to their view trinkets and implements, which have in 

 their eyes an almost inestimable value, and cannot 

 fail to excite their cupidity. Had our possessions 

 been more guardedly veiled at Point Berens, I feel 

 persuaded we should never have been subjected to 

 the late annoyance. Firmness and unfailing vigilance 

 are indispensable to security : never should the 

 slightest wavering from an original resolution be. 

 displayed, nor should distrust ever be apparent, 

 though it must also be particularly noticed that 

 treachery lurks in every act of the Esquimaux, they 

 are not to be confided in for an instant ; and it should 

 always be remembered that the adage, " too much 

 familiarity breeds contempt," is peculiarly appropriate 

 as regards communication with unenlightened tribes. 



