That is the curst Misfortune of our Traders,

A thousand Fools attempt to live this Way,

Who might as well turn Ministers of State.

But, as you are a Friend, I will inform you

Of all the secret Arts by which we thrive,[Pg 118]

[Pg 118]

Which if all practis'd, we might all grow rich,

Nor circumvent each other in our Gains.

What have you got to part with to the Indians?

Murphey.

Murphey.

I've Rum and Blankets, Wampum, Powder, Bells,

And such-like Trifles as they're wont to prize.

M'Dole.

M'Dole.

'Tis very well: your Articles are good:

But now the Thing's to make a Profit from them,

Worth all your Toil and Pains of coming hither.

Our fundamental Maxim is this,

That it's no Crime to cheat and gull an Indian.

 Prev. P 9/204 next