in regard to forming a union with some of the nearest tribes. Our salvation is the destruction of the gentiles and their destruction will be our salvation. We ought to have as much wisdom as this generation & if we are authorised to act for ourselves and secure a good portion he thinks we ought to do it. He does not think we shall be called to fight, but we may be called to stand in the attitude of those who do fight. In case we are routed by our enemies, how can we secure our retreat. On the same principle we are now looking out for a home, he would look out for a place of retreat near by, We are not called upon to move now, we have some commandments to fulfil, but in case we are uprooted where is the place of resort. As to going a little distance and [p. [155]]