From the preceding brief notices of the hostile bearing of the savage tribes towards the early Southern planters, it will be apparent that the colonization of that portion of America was no easy matter. The jealousy of the Indians towards their new neighbors was soon excited; nor did the conduct of the colonists serve to allay, but rather to increase it. The cruelty and vindictiveness of the Indians cannot be justified; but in their circumstances may be found, perhaps, some small apology. This was their country: they were proprietors of the soil. Here they lived: here were their altars: here their fathers' sepulchres; and they regarded them with the veneration and love of which they were capable. Who can blame them? Who censure those feelings--that patriotism--that love of liberty, which, when found among civilized nations, are highly extolled? Among the Indian chiefs, there were men of no small sagacity; who, foreseeing the consequences to themselves and people of the thrift and extension of the English--can it be deemed strange that their anticipations were most sad? or that they should adopt every expedient which seemed likely to avert calamities to them most fearful? [Illustration] [Illustration: N.E. INDIAN WARS.] FOOTNOTE: [18] Book of the Indians. IV. PLYMOUTH COLONY AND THE INDIANS. EARLY Rencontre at Plymouth--Friendly intercourse established by means of Samoset--Kindness of Squanto--Intercourse with Massasoit--Contemplated Massacre defeated--Jealousy of Caunbitant--Notice of Hobomok.