Charles Ellicott Commentary Joshua 9:7

"And the men of Israel said unto the Hivites, Peradventure ye dwell among us; and how shall we make a covenant with you?" — Joshua 9:7 (ASV)

Perhaps you dwell among us; and how shall we make a league with you? —Literally, Perhaps you are a dweller in my midst; and how shall I make a covenant with you? The Israelites assume the ownership of Canaan as already theirs.