FL661530

to deprive them of their spirit of independence
they seem to feel that they are a conquered
people. This may partly be owing to the
fact that not infrequently, their bravest
and most determined men [words crossed out]
who may have had the courage to oppose the
advance of Europeans, may have felt
destroyed by them. Indeed in many
respects we can hardly judge of [word crossed out]
[words crossed out] The Aborigines in their
wild state after they have been more or
less influenced whether for better or for worse
by Europeans.
Before they go to war they usually send
& exchange messengers to each other
who are treated wth respect and safe
on the enemy's territory. These messengers
are often sent back accompanied by others from
the opposite party to make stipulation for peace
or for a compromise. If war is decided upon
it often takes weeks till the various [indecipherable]
tribes are gathered. Many a consultation may
be held till the allies agree to promise
their aid, and sometimes some of the same
tribe may withdraw from the conflict, if they dont
approve of it. For there is no supreme power