I am entirely of your opinion concerning the Trade &c by way of Missisipi whilst the traders find better Markets at N Orleans &Cj but I apprehend it might be remedied by Confining the Northern Traders to the posts, and if La Baye, ^ Miamv'sj were reestablished the Ind^ would soon resort there in great numbers and the Furrs would return to the Northward, but as it would not well answer those Trading at & about the Missisipi to send theirs by any other way than that River, some restrictions might I imagine be fallen upon to prevent the French from Engrossing it, and if proper Steps Could be taken to direct the Channel of Trade in West Florida, where the French are so well supplied with goods, N Orleans would not Long be the Mart in that Quarter, tho' I own this appears a difficult task as each Province has a peculiar Interest which must often interfere with the General good of the Whole.

I have had a Letter from Capt Maturin concerning the Cash, and another from Capt Stevenson who tells me it is in his hands, & I shall send the Receipt by next apportunity.

M.} Croghan has represented the Case of the Indian Deputys who accompanied him to the Ilinois to whose Services he was 'greatly indebted, and who lost their hunting season thereby, I cannot but recommend this to your Consideration, as a reward for

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their behavior and an incitement to others to act in like manner, whatever is ordered for them may be given them at Fort Pitt ; -- I wish the Services lately performed at the Ilinois may appear adequate to the expense, the amount of which I am not acquainted with but I suppose you are furnished with the particulars --