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opinions as to the propriety of such a step. On 
this occasion, after representing the numerous diffi¬ 
culties under which they laboured in consequence of 
not receiving supplies, and their inferiority in point 
of numbers to the enemy, he on the other hand 
pointed out the dangers which would arise from 
shewing any signs of fear or timidity. They had 
hitherto maintained their character for bravery and 
military prowess, and had thereby gained the alliance 
of one third of the islanders; and the surest way to 
preserve their respect, was to shew that they in no 
way feared the enemy, but were ready in their turn 
to become the assailants, and attack them on their 
frontier; whereas to purchase a peace would debase 
them in the eyes of their allies, and of all the nations 
on the island, who would despise them when they 
saw them embarrassed, and undecided in their pro¬ 
ceedings. He therefore left it to them to decide the 
question of peace or war, declaring, at the same time, 
lie saw no alternative but of instantly taking the field 
and carrying the war to the frontier of the Seclaves, 
by which means they would preserve their own pos¬ 
sessions, and those of their allies, from devastation, 
and, by surprising the enemy, compel them to sub¬ 
mit to such terms as they should subscribe. 
This plan was approved of by all the officers, who 
assured him, that though their number was small, and 
even that must be reduced by the necessary guards 
for the posts, yet they would not shrink from the 
danger, but desired nothing more earnestly than to 
