The early period had been one of formation, the second was one of readjustment.

So far as Indian administration was con- cerned the government simply marked time.

The Indians were useful friends but dangerous enemies, and the agents were instructed to make every effort to win their friendship.

When the new Constitution was inaugurated in 1789 a more definite policy of administering Indian affairs became possible.

This third period, which ended in 1849 was marked by the extension of white settlements westward and the constant removal of the Indians to new hunting-grounds.