Collections : [University of Michigan William L. Clements Library]

Reply from Choptank in the name of the Nanticoke Indians, describing the turmoil that the selling of their land would bring to his people. Offers the deputies supplies for their travels home. Choptank's speech is followed by a signed note by Amos Ogden, stating that Choptank's answer may have been influenced by Colonel Loyd, who wishes to remain in a good relationship with the Indians.

"Journal of B Roberts Esqr. C. I. A. from his leaving Mackinak till his Arrival at Johnson Hall." Lt. Christie, Capt. Spicemaker, and Joseph Ainse set out to attend the trial of Robert Rogers. At Fort Sinclair, Captain Turnbull advises that Ainse should not to go to Detroit, but Ainse persists. Rogers trial. Ainse held, then found not guilty.

Respecting transmission of Militia commissions. Fees for the commissions are unsettled. Details respecting the changing costs of commissions. Feedback about commissions from Mr. Banyar, John V. Renselaer, and Stephen V. Rensalaer [Rensselaer].

Speech by Colonel John Wilkins to the Indians of the Ouabache (Wabash) and Ohio Rivers & ca, regarding their defiant actions toward the English. Unlike the Iroquois, Shawanese, Delawares, Cherokees, and Chikasaws, they have chosen not to be allies with the English. Highlights an attack on Mr. Croghan and the killing of two Shawana Chiefs in 1765 attacks on traders and merchant ships near Fort Vincent; the wrongful imprisonment of an Iroquois Chief; and the attempt to put Silver Heels to death. Wilkins demands peace with the Indians, threatening that the English will no longer be deceived by dishonest speeches.

D. Wynkoop writes to William Johnson addressing the theft of horses from Mohawk Chief Abraham. The thief has been caught and is sentenced to execution on Friday the thirtieth.

Lord Dartmouth responds to the dispatches of April 22nd and 30th. Stresses the importance of maintaining good relations with the Six Nations. Reference to plans to establish "a Govt. on the Ohio. "

Letter concerning Benjamin Roberts. Includes extracted text from a letter by Stephen Kimble, Boston, on September 12, 1774 discussing "Robert's Conduct in seizing the Rum at Michilmackinak." Wetherhead asks for the assistance of Mr. Robinson, the Treasury Secretary. Requests assistance in his relations with the Lords of the Treasury

Lieutenant Benjamin Roberts's affairs. General Gage's opinion. Seeking assistance from London.

On the status of a man named Mr. Butler, was supposed to have been executed. The Chiefs of the Six Nations report that Butler was not executed, but was instead removed to Albany with other prisoners. Oneidas provided news of damage to Fort Stanwix, dead and injured, and the death of a pregnant woman by a cannon shot. Updates on General Burgoyne near Albany. Joseph Brant, his family, and 40 other Mohawks have taken refuge at Connatasago. Mohawk women and children at Fort Hunter. Rebel scouting party and skirmish. Four Indians are in Albany as spies. Deserter's remarks on Washington's position and plans. Brant requests fabric and tea.

Speech respecting the movement of the Council Fire, as the rebels have taken their land. Wishes the tree planted at the Council Fire be removed and planted at the new location of the Fire--at a site chosen by the Cayuga and Seneca. Requests that all furnishings from the Council House be brought to the new Council Fire location.