At the same time I am of opinion that provided the object is worthy attention, and that the Distance from the Sea, with the other Obstructions and Expences attending it, do not render the plan unprofitable, a Circumstance on which I cannot positively decide, the Inds may be reconciled to the Opening & Working those Mines, and that if strict care be taken to do them Justice in the manner I have already proposed, without any attempts to Private Settlements, or insisting upon Charter Rights as conveying property of soil, there is a prospect of its being enjoyed in security; and that to obtain their Consents the Chiefs of those Nat^ interested sho'^ be assembled, when the whole sho^^ be laid before them without Disguise, or making any promises but such as could and would be fully performed, and that on giving them a present & obtaining their Consent some persons of Interest amongst them sho«^ accompany those who are to prosecute the design and carry the plan into execution, the future Success of which must depend upon the manner in which it is conducted, and upvon the Temper

SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 923

not only of those Ind^ whose property it is, but of many other nations.

I could have wished it were in my power to have more diligently enquired and to have offered more particular remarks regarding this proposal, but when it is known that I have scarcely had a moment's Leisure, from the number and importunity s of Ind^ since my return last month from the Treaty at Fort Stanwix, I persuade myself I shall be in some measure Excusable sho<l it appear that I have not been able to give it all the attention that was necessary ; and as I was desirous of Complying as soon as possible with his Majesty's orders by offering my thoughts upon the matter, which with the hopes of your Lordship's favorable Indulgence I now humbly submit to his Majesty's consideration.