The above is a true Copy StepHen Fay.

GOV TRYON TO THE INHABITANTS OF BENNINGTON

Albany August 11 1772. Gentlemen,

At the same time I express to you my satisfaction, by the opportunity of Mr. Fay, on the grateful manner in which you received and accepted the lenient measures prescribed by this government, for your peaceable conduct, until his Majesty's pleasure should be known, respecting the disputed claim to lands within this government, I cannot conceal from you my high

794 CONTROVERSY RESPECTING THE

displeasure at the breach of faith and honor, made by abody of your people, in dispossessing several settlers on Ofter Creek, and its neighbourhood, of their possessions, during the very time the Commissioners you appointed to attend me at Vew York were waiting the determination of government on your petition, that you might remain unmolested in your possessions, until the King's pleasure be obtained. Such disingenuous and dishonorable proceedings, I view with great concern, considering them as daring insults to government, a Violation of public faith, and the conditions granted to you on petition. To prevent, therefore, the fatal consequence that must follow so manifest a breach of public confidence, Iam to require your assistance, in putting, forthwith, those families, who have been thus dispossessed, into re-possession of theirlands and tenements, in the same manner, in which they were, at the time Mr. Fay and his son, waited on me at Wew York. Such a conduct on your part, will not fail of recommending your situation to his Majesty, and insure a continuance of my friendly intentions towards you. Wm Tryon, To the Inhabitants of Bennington, and the adjacent Country.