4

I have not been ^I am not fond of forwarding complaints against
the Cherokee tribe, nation on account of some Murders &
thefts committed by some lawless fellowes of that tribe,
conceiving that it would be as difficult for ^the cheifs them to
prevent those disorders in every instance, as it would be for
the Rulers in philadelphia to restrain Murders and
Roberies often committed within that and other neighb
=ouring Cities; Having good reason to
believe that [fine?] representations go forward of the
Brutal and savage conduct of the indians, I beg
leave to inform you that several very Cruel and
barbarous Murders have been committed on several
persons of the peaceable Citizens of this state, by
the Cherokees & and one by the Creeks. also agreat
number of horses stolen by those Nations in the
Course of autumn & winter last besides likewise retaining in
their han Captivity a number of ^white persons prisoners Negros and
ther [sic] property contrary to their statement ^in violation ^of the treaties
and solemn promises ^made to the contrary. which they have made long
since - it is an unpleasant reflection to behold
as it were our dearest and nearest relations in
the hands of savages sold and bartered from indians,
to indians, and from nation, to nation, in order to
Glut and satisfy the ambition of savage Cruelty.

For to remedy these enumerated and aggravated
Grevances [sic], I trust and confidently rely upon your taking
that decisive steps will be taken. Justice and policy require
it, and if neglected will be a reproach to the Government of the United States

I am &c -