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Knoxville 17 August 1797

(Copy)

Sir

I was absent when yours of last evening came forward
Otherways I should have done Myself the honor
to have replyed [sic] ^of replying immeadiately. I thank you Col^o.
Butler for his politeness in offering to lay before
me as Chiefe [sic] Magistrate of the state, the address
intended to the people who have intruded on the indian
lands, how far such a business may come within
my province I am not at present able to say,
but will be happy to have an interview with
you the Colonel the Col.^o the time he has proposed, in order to
become more acquainted with the business.
Circumstances - I have the honor to be &c

Signed

John Sevier

Colonel ^Thomas (in pencil) Butler