CHAPTER II.

Contests between the Colonists and Savages revive--Murderous
skirmish.--Mikak.--Karpik, his conversion and death.--The
Moravians receive a grant of land on the coast of
Labrador--resolve to renew the mission--voyage to explore the
land.--Jans Haven, Drachart, &c., arrive at Labrador--their
interview with the natives--meet Mikak and Tuglavina--their
kindness.--Segulliak the sorcerer.--Anxiety of the Esquimaux for
their remaining among them--ground purchased for a
settlement--manner of bargaining with the Esquimaux--sail for
Esquimaux bay--the natives troublesome--the Captain's method of
checking them--conduct of the missionaries--they preach on
shore.--Conversation with the Esquimaux--search out a place for
a settlement--purchase it of the natives--ceremonies used on the
occasion--take formal possession.--Deputation return to England.


Various impediments prevented any further negociations with the
government of Great Britain, in regard to establishing a mission among
the Esquimaux, for nearly five years. During this period the English
merchants and the natives on the coast of Labrador were anew involved
in strife and bloodshed. With the missionaries all confidence had left
the country; the colonists had no check, and the savages had no
friend. The mercenary views of the traders were ever leading them to
cheat and deceive these poor untutored unprotected beings, who in
return, deemed retaliation no crime; nor in balancing the amount of
guilt would it be easy to settle which of the parties were most deeply