Simmons certifies that $19.73 is due Aaron Dunham, Supervisor of New Jersey, being the amount of his account for receiving and paying monies from the Dept. of War between March 21, 1793 and August 10 [?], 1795.
A letter was found near the trailhead of the road leading from Lynchburg to New London which had coincidentally been in the New London mail. In order to know whether the public has sustained any injury, Hodgdon is asked whether he has sent any money since his letter of the 28th of June which enclosed $721.41.
Lieut. Taylor returned from trip to Fort Knox with letters from France that had been intercepted on en route to Fort Vincennes. Some object/document sold to the British government. Accounts mentioned. Enclosed extract from letter by Capt. Pike regarding repairs. No news on "royal chest" mentioned in letter 28th ultimo.
In a largely illegible letter, Wayne seems to be reporting on the state of the military deployment in the southwest that is a response to the hostile actions of the Creek Indians. Also addresses the time and difficulty of transporting large numbers of troops across the frontier.
Informs the president that the Creek Indians now in negotiations with U.S. commissioners desire a representative to arrange trade, explain boundaries and criminal procedures as they relate to the Indians. Notes that Georgia wishes to make sure the representative is prepared to contend for their interests in purchasing land from the Creeks, as well as establishing a program for civilizing them, as exists with the Cherokee. McHenry advises on the possibilities of these proposals, offers to frame instructions for such an envoy if Washington is in favor of it, and suggests a person for the job (a Mr. Hawkins).
Refers to recent conference between Six Nations and American representatives. Outlines treaty establishing boundary and trade. Refers to murder of Indians by Harrison. Refers to instructions of the President. Mentions plan of civilization. Mentions states anxious to get Indian land.
Attaches speech, approved by the president, to the Cherokees. Laments that recent attempts to civilize the Indians have failed; states that the key is to "wean them from hunting and trapping," and started on agriculture & animal husbandry. Says this is the basis of the president's talk. Asks that Dinsmoor be ready to report a need for tools & instructors for civilized activities like these, or, for instance, spinning & weaving. Asks that Dinsmoor familiarize himself with the Cherokee language, to better instruct and persuade them. Encloses a copy of "An Act to Regulate Trade and Intercourse with the Indian tribes, and to preserve the peace on the frontier," along with instructions to explain and enforce it among the Cherokee. Asks for frequent reports and expense accounts for the articles needed to instruct and mollify the Indians. Advises Dinsmoor that he may assign the interpreters previously hired by the U.S. as he sees fit.
Requests report of Cherokee Nation. Laments lack of success in civilizing the Indians. Suggests weaning Indians from hunting and trapping. Refers to the President's plan. Suggests that women are more docile than men. Lists plans to work with farming, animals, supplies, property, dealings with U.S. citizens, etc. Requests regular reports. Outlines salary.
Increased bounty for deserters, current punishment not adequate.
Building and repairs to fortifications discussed. Indians expectant for annuities due them by treaty of Green ville and desire a meeting with G. Washington at "seat of Government or Great Council fire". Wayne enclosed speech delivered to Indians.
Gibson apologizes for the delay in submitting his account which is due to the poor state of his health. He had recruited most of his men before he learned that he needed a certificate from the magistrate for each one attesting to their good health. He presumes they are in good health except for James Moss who deserted.
Hodgdon will send Craig a list of how he classifies items in returns and what departments those items belong to. Discussed Sec. of War's decision on Craig's reimbursement for services performed for the Ordnance and Clothing Deparments.
Acknowledges receipt of his account of commissions for acting as agent for the War Department in paying and receiving monies. Cited in Stevens to Simmons, 10/03/1796.
