Previous to my setting out I received very unfavorable accots of their disposition & unwillingness to come down, wliich obliged me to take such steps as would shew them that we continued our friendship as usual, I accordingly purchased some Goods which added to the present from the Provinces of Maryland and Pensilvania afforded them all a part and sent them away Contented, after having w*^''. much difficulty settled the differences between them and the frontier people, and prevailed on them to agree to a peace with the Cherokees. The Exigency of the occasion prevented me from consulting you hereon or waits', yi". ansr., which I know you will Excuse on that accot. and as soon as possible I shall send down on acco* of the Expenses, w^. are not considerable on such an occasion. I have not for a considerable time past discovered so general a discontent amongst them, the causes of which have been daily increasing, and retaliation seemed resolved upon. There is a French lad at Detroit who saw the Negro murder the Squaws of which I thought it necessary to acquaint you. I wish the fellow who fled to Virginia may be apprehended, & the Intruders near the Ohio, removed, which will have a good Effect.

The Expenses of North America, is doubtless a matter of serious Consideration at home, the more so fium the proceedings of people

854 MANUSCRIPTS OF

here, -- It will nevertheless be a groat pity & a general loss should they alliect the public Service or the Security of the Country, Avhich must be the case if they are hasty in their Resolutions. The withdrawing the Garrisons from the Small posts may not be attended with ill consequences ; but care certainly should be taken of the frontiers otherwise such a scope will be given both to Indians and French, as will leave tliem at Liberty to form Designs and even put them in Execution before we are able to take any precautions for the public security.