1

Knoxville 31 December 1797

Sir

Yours of the 19^th Instant with the several papers
therein inclosed I am duly honored with by your
express. The contents of your request shall be
Strictly adhered to, and every possible exertion
Will be made, to seize and bring to light the
papers & documents in that will throw in the
office of [Martin Armstrong]] and his deputies, and
all papers in the hands of any suspected persons
that may throw light on the black and base
affair you have communicated to me upon; -
And also to, ^discover & bring to Justice the culprits, who have
been guilty of the fraud & forgery practiced in
obtaining warrants & grants for military lands.

I am &c

J. S

His Excellency Gov^r. Ashe