[Edward Manning Ruttenber (1872)] We are resolved to live and die here in this government, and do pray that our father will support and protect us." " I thank you for your kind expressions," replied Bellomont; " and you may be sure I will do every thing to maintain the covenant chain firm and steadfast. I should be 1 Peace was established between the 1700. — Colonial History, iv, 758. Abenaquis and the Five Nations, Oct. 7, 184 THE INDIAN TRIBES very glad if you would invite your friends the Pennacokes and eastern Indians to come and settle with you. Since the Five Nations and you are linked together in interest, it would be an advantage to engage those other Indians in the same interest."1 At a conference held July 18, 1701, Soquans again appeared with joyful heart. " We are now two hundred fighting men belonging to this county of Albany2 from Katskill to Skachkook," said he, "and hope to increase in a year's time to three hundred. Our neighbors, the Maquas, have not been so fortunate, for their tree was burnt. We have been so happy and fortunate that our number is increased to that degree that we cannot all