A F RJ C A. 319 
the dlftance, the time neceffary to convey intel- 
ligence to him, raid other circumftances, per- 
haps, which it may be prudent not to inquire 
into, d/iguife it fb much when it reaches the 
town, that it fcarcely furniihes fubjed for the 
converfation of the day. 
A planter arrives from, the diftance of an 
Jumdred leagues; he complains to the governor 
that the Cafixes have carried away all his cattle; 
and he requefts a commando^ that is to fay, 
permiffion to go and recover his property with 
the affiflance of his neighbours. The governor 
fufpeding no deceit, or pretending not to dif- 
cover any, takes every thing in the fame light 
as it is reprefented to him., and fees nothing but 
juftice in the demand of an impoilor : a pre- 
vious enquiry would require too much time, 
befides being laborious and embarraffing. To 
grant permiffion is eafy ; it cofts little, and is 
only a fingle vvord. This fatal word is there- 
fore written, and it becomes the fentence of 
death pafTed agaiuft thoufands of favages, who 
have neither the lame refources nor the fame 
means of defence. The monfter who thus de- 
ceives the credulity of the governor, returns 
fatisfied amidft the accomplices of his rapacity, 
and gives to his commando whatever extent he 
may 
