Early Governors' Papers

of War to the executive of this state, dated 13 August last only arrived here on the 11^th instant, brought by Mr John Deadrick from Cumberland, Another from same department dated 29 September came by our fort a few days before. How these irregularities happen Iam at a loss to know. It is not the first time my letters directed to me at this place from Philadelphia, has went round by the way of Cumberland, and some of them came forward with a broken seal.

Ihope you will ^please acquaint the post Master General of such Irregularities, in order ^that the defect may be remedied.

Captains Captain Wades and Captain Spark's companies have arrived neither of them compleat, if no more is sent, these will be inadequate to the protection of our Frontiers, and the defect ought to be supplyed by militia. Three companies of infantry and a troop of horse, would answer the purpose, in which Ihave wrote the secretary of war

Ihave the honor to be &c

Signed

J. Sevier

John Sevier Letter to the members in Congress 17^th January 1797

(No 17)

Knoxville 17 Jan^y 1797.

Sir

Ihad the honor of receiving your favors of 29 Sep. by the mail on the 11 instant, and that of the 13th of August on the same day, the latter came to hand by Mr. John Deadrick from the district of Moro. from such circumstances it appears there is great [page damaged] And irregularities in conveying your dispatches to this place.

Captains Captain Wade and Captain Spark have arrived, neither of the Companies compleat. I would beg leave to mention, that three companies of Infantry and a troop of horse, in my opinion would ^not be more than adequate: to the Valuable Consequences that would result from Cavalry being employed in addition to the infantry would ensure the safety of the frontiers. The very appearance of well appointed Cavalry will always have powerful effects, and Awing and detering the indians from Hostilities.

I have continued the Militia Gaurd at Fort Blount, to remain there until relieved by regular troops.

Several families on the road to Cumberland through the Wilderness have had their homes stolen and waggons plundered by the indians. I have wrote the agent & Cheifs on