The Documentary history of the state of New-York; arranged under direction of the Hon. Christopher Morgan, secretary of State. By E. B. O'Callaghan ...

FIVE CONFEDERATE NATIONS OF INDIANS. 1097
disregard to them, and our neglect of them besides in these
matters, gives them a mean opinion of our principles and wisdom. It were needless to say that this disposition will afford
great advantages to the French priests, and procure them a
more favorable reception, which they will not fail to improve.
Under these circumstances the affection of the Indians will be
alienated from us more and more, to which the pomp and ceremonies of the Romisli religion, with which the Savages are much
captivated, will not a little contribute. The only method that
is left to counteract this and prevent the bad consequences that
must evidently attend it, is to send Protestant Missionaries
among the Iroquois. Establishments of this kind, if properly
supported, will be a counterpoise to the advantages those Popish
Missionaries possess, and to the assiduity of their endeavors.
Hereby those Savages who are yet in the bosom of heathenism,
may be brought to the knowledge of Christianity, and preserved
from their influence; those more perfectly instructed, who have
received some impressions of religion, and the false prejudices
they have embibed from Romish priests entirely removed.
These advantages already mentioned resulting from the conversion of the Iroquois are very great. It would be making
faithful allies or subjects of those who otherwise might prove
dangerous enemies, which is a matter of real importance. But
besides this, there are many other benefits which would arise
from it. Our frontier settlements are extended to a great
length; they are defenceless, and open to the incursions of an
enemy. Christianising those Indians would not only secure a
lasting peace with them, but they would by this means form a
barrier to our frontiers against any Indians that are more remote,
and might be at war with us. The security of our frontiers
would contribute to the quick population of this Province, and
among several advantages of which this would be productive,
the following is one-that as the lands are held of the crown,
and pay quit rents, this branch of his majesty's revenue would
be proportionably increased. Our commerce with the Indians
would also gain by their conversion. For although it has been
alledged by some who knew little of Indian'affairs, or thought
superficially on the subject, that were the Indians converted to