Early Governors' Papers

Knoxville 9th May 1798

D^r Sir

I have the honor to Acknowledge yours of the 11^th April Ultimo, With the paper containing the instructions to our envoys, and a copy of their dispatches ^which is amusing enough - M^r Steele arrived here yesterday. And Walter, & Moore, is daily expected- Great complaints Among the poor inhabitants that have been forced from their farms and homes, Their prospects for making crops is very doubtful- Your brother is in good health and doing well - pray write me on every opportunity, and let me know what you are all about- Tallyrand together with the [directory?] is great lovers of money, and understand ^the diplomatic nego =ciating [sic] business I take the liberty to of inclosing you a copy one of my circular letters -

Accept the assurances of my sincere Esteem

J

Honble M^r W^m C C Claiborne

P. S. the presidents late conduct toward this Country, has gained him much friendship, and should he continue to manifest his regard, he will become much admired by the people -

Knoxville 9th May 1798

D^r Sir

I do my self the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of 23 Ma^rch Ultimo, in which you express Your Uneasiness on Account of the Unfortunate people that had has been compelled to remove.

Be assured sir that I do not entertain a most distant doubt, of your real concern, and I feel fully convinced that both you and your colleagues have been sufficiently attentive to towards those Unhappy settlers interests, and have done every thing in your power ^to serve them - I do most sincerely lament their condition, and am extremely doubtful that they will not be relieved in time to make crops -

M^r. Steele have Arrived ^here on yesterday, the other two gentlemen is expected in a day or two, I have great hopes that matters will go on well - appearances at the present are good favorable - The presidents late conduct towards this country has gained him much friendship, here and should he continue to manifest his regard, he will be very much admired by the people

I am sorry the peace of our country is ^so likely to be disturbed and should it be the case, I hope that our American patriots, will become United, and repel every insult that may ^be offered to the sovereignity and dignity of our Nation