Introduction. Properties of empire -- 1. Networks of property and belonging. Land use in the 17th century -- 2. Dawnland encounters, 1600-1713 -- 3. Land claims, 1713-1722 -- 4. Breaking-and making-the peace, 1722-1727 -- 5. In defiance of the proprietors, 1722-1727 -- 6. The rightful owners thereof, 1735-1741 -- 7. Troubled times, 1741-1752 -- 8. Contrary to their own laws, 1749-1755 -- Conclusion. Treaties buried and lost. Indigenous rights and colonial property since 1755.