Early Governors' Papers

Nashville April 15^th [1797]

Sir inclosed you have letter from the Chickasaws the Barrers which are five Chickasaws informe me that Woolf's Friend desired I might open your Excellencys letter, as the barrer had a virble message to me, to let your Excellency know the incroachment, on there land was meant, mr Cox and Co: - as they ware informed preparations ware making at Knoxville, to take settlers to the Bent of Tennessee, and to informe you that should mr Cox, or any other person, make attempt to settle thare that the Chickasaw Nation, will ameadiately strike them as they have given him notes, not to do it and they wish your excellency to give him such notice and that Mr Cox is to have no dependence on a few Chickasaws granting him permission, for such permission is not by the consent of the Chickasaw Nation and Sir it is my opinion if mr. Cox should make such attempts, that Blood will no Emeadeatley shed and perhaps cause an Indian War on the united states I hope mr Cox good sense will dictate to him that this is a very unfavorable time, and that a few years may turn up much more in his favour - my Brother Elijah Robertson departed this life yesterday, he has had a sever attack of the Sandres, on that exeses of drinking spirits. As we are now with out a judg and it is with in your province to appoint one- Major Howel Tatum has informed me, he will serve till next assembly if your excellency should think proper ^to give him such Commission - I shall still expect and hope to see you at may Cort - I am your Excellencys very humbel servant

Jo^s Robertson

Governer Seveir