In a report of the Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations in 1772 are words which show that it was the intention of the government to confine 'the western extent of settlements to such a distance from the seaboard as that those settlements should lie within easy reach of the trade and commerce of this kingdom,...

and also of the exercise of that authority and jurisdiction...

necessary for the preservation of the colonies in a due subordination to, and dependence upon, the mother country...

It does appear to us that the extension of the fur trade depends entirely upon the Indians being undisturbed in the possession of their hunting-grounds...

Let the savages enjoy their deserts in quiet.