Bretheren

We have something to say to you of great Importance. The Treatys subsisting between us and you our Brethren, as well as the Great Affection we bear towards you. Oblige us to mention it. The French profess to be in perfect Friendship with us as well as you, Notwithstanding this, they are making continual Incroachments upon us both: They have lately done so in the most insulting manner both to the Northward and Westward. Your Fathers by their valour above One hundred Years ago, gained a considerable Country, which they Afterwards of their own Accord put under the protection of the King of Great Britain. The French are endeavouring to possess themselves of this whole Country, altho' they have made the most Express Treaties with the English to the contrary,

Bretheren^ It appears to us that these Measures of the French must necessarily soon interrupt and destroy all Trade and Intercourse between the English and the several Indian Nations on the Continent, and will Block up and Obstruct, the Great Road?

SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 569

which have hitherto lain open between you and your Allies and Friends who live at a distance.

We want to know whether these things appear to you in the same light as they do to us, or whether the French taking possession of the Lands in your Country, and building Forts between the Lakes Erie and the River Ohio, be done with ybur Consent or Approbation. A large Belt

Bretheren

Open your Hearts to us, deal with us as Bretheren, we are ready to consult with you how to Scatter these Clouds that hang over us. This is a matter of so great weight, that we think it best to defer mentioning any other Affair till you have considered this, least they should take away part of that attention which is necessary on so extraordinary an Occasion A Belt