Not only did the Lamanites deal harshly with the Nephites, who had now become slaves to their taskmasters, but also the Lamanites constantly encroached upon the lands given to the Nephites. Gradually, and stealthily the Lamanites obtained possession of the rights and property of the Nephites. These rights had been assured the Nephites in the treaties made by their respective kings. On every side, until they were completely surrounded, the Nephites suffered loss, through theft, of crops and of cattle. The Lamanites hemmed them in and in every way conceivable harassed the peaceable Nephites.