The Dutch traders, without any fear, penetrated the wilderness in all directions, and were invariably hospitably received in the wigwams of the Indians.
In their traffic the Dutch at first exchanged for furs only articles of ornament or of domestic value.

But the bullet was a far more potent weapon in the chase and in the hunting-field than the arrow.

The Indians very soon perceived the vast advantage they would derive in their pursuit of game, from the musket, as well as the superiority it would give them over all their foes.

They consequently became very eager to obtain muskets, powder and ball.

They were warm friends of the Europeans.