And inasmuch as there was nothing wrote to me manifesting your Pleasure in the Affair, I presume your Honour did not know the Contents of the Inclosed though it came under your Seal ; and how to conduct in the Affair Iam at a great Loss--Mr Smith is now gone to New York &c to prepare for his Mission ; I expect him back soon, and if he comes & finds Joseph gone, whom he depends upon for a Pilot & Companion he will be greatly disappointed, and I fear will think himself very ungratefully treated. Joseph is rendered so very uneasy, for fear of gaining the Displeasure of his Friends, that I am doubtful whether it will do to detain him, and to send him alone will not be well, be sure on Foot, and to send a Horse with him may give him much Trouble to return him.
Nor have I any intimation of any valuable End that may be served by his going before the Time proposed--And as Joseph desires to put himself under your Honour's Conduct, as what he apprehends most safe & prudent for him to do, so I. should be glad your Honour would as explicitly as you please let me know your Pleasure, And upon the whole think it advisable to detain Joseph (if he will be content to stay), till I receive your Honour's Pleasure, or till the Time appointed for his coming by Mt Smith.
And I am with Sincere Respect & Esteem Your Honour's most obedient humble Servt Sir William Johnson. Eveazar WHEELOCK.