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Knoxville 13th March 1799.

Sir

Iam duly honored with yours of the 11th instant,
Ihave had also the honor of receiving Governor Sargents
letter of 15th January ult. I have been am creditally
informed that Z. Cox, on Oath ^having been first made, by Lieu^t W^m
P Smith, by V a warrant Issueding from The Honble
Judge McNairy ^on which he was arrested and underwent an
examination before the judge, after which was returned bound in Cognizance
to appear again at some a future day before the

What charges has been exhibited against Cox
Iknow not particularly, but suppose it must be for from information
some treasonable offenses against the United States:
Admitting such to be the case, it would be premature
in ^at this time for the executive of Te this State, either to order ^him out
of the custody, or, prevent a the trial before a Federal
tribunal; Whose powers are a competant for
the trying trial trying and punishingment of all crimes and
misdemeanors, ^that may be have been alleged to have been committed.

permit me to inform you sir, that a speedy
enquiry will be made respecting the affair & Case
of Cox, and provided no lawful impediment appear
to be in the way, every compliance and respect, will be
duly paid Governor Sargents request, I have the honor &c

John Sevier

Col. Butler