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Knoxville 17 February 1797

Captains Captain Sparks & Captain Wade

As you are now on the eve of seting [sic] out to hold
a Conference with the inhabitants settled in
what is called the indian lands, ^I hope permit me to
solicit your paternal, benevolent, and favorable
indulgences towards those unfortunate people,
by Granting ^unto them all the time and suitable opportunity
that may be adequate to a preparation for their
removal; and in every other instance affoard [sic] unto
them such marks of your humanity and tenderness
as the duties of your offices and the nature of the
case will admit of permit. You in doing of which you will
lay me under high very great and lasting obligations

I have the honor to be
with much Esteem & respect
Your m.^o ob. serv.^t

Signed

John Sevier