In the present critical situation of affairs with the Indians I am at a Loss what Step first to take, the Ministry are fully apprized of every thing but the time will not permit me to receive their ansvfer concerning the Calling a Gen^ Congress, to meet next Year, as this must be attended with a considerable Expence I would willingly have your Sentiments & direction concern? it, I have thought of it as what would for a time divert their attention, and the issue of it might prove to their satisfaction or in the mean time somewhat else might be done in their affairs.

His Excellency Gen'"!. Gage.

THE SAME TO THE SAME.

Johnson-hall Novr. 24th. 1767. Dear Sir,

I have had the favor of both your Letters of the 9*"* Inst, and I think as you do concerning the final consequences of the Boundary line. It would however have its advantages for a time, and the Indians think so, but whether that or any thing wee can fall upon

8S6 MANUSCRIPTS Or

will fully answer is to me a matter of doubt, the feeble state of the Governments, and the Interests and pursuits of the people of all which you are fully sensible must prove a bar to the most salutary measures, If a Government was formed on the plan you mention it would prove a good barrier against the Encroachments of others, and have strength enough in itself to restrain its own people within just bounds, the powers of the Old Governments seem to grow daily weaker, & the Inclinations of the people to do justice to the Indians lessen and therefore we cannot expect they will apply to the military of whose power they seem so Jealous -- The Settlers about Redstone Creek increase which is what I apprehended for these people when they have once found a Spot where they are not under Landlord or Law will soon draw other Idle persons about them, I shall cheerfully concur with you in pointing out the ill Consequences of such Settlements to the Governors of which I wish they may take notice, but for the reasons aforementioned I almost despair of ft.