[Copy] Niagara 18^th May 1791. Sir, A few days ago I had your letter of the 5^th Instant, to which I should have returned an immediate answer, had I not waited for some Public Papers, which I was told were to be handed to me by the Paymaster, and other Officers, who were to wait upon me, to receive my advice on Business of Importance. They have However never made their appearance at this Post. I think it not proper to give you the explanation of my not having sooner replied to your letter, but as there is no Document which places you in any other light, there is to no doubt, I can not enter into any discussion of a Public nature. Whenever any of the Chiefs of the Senecas, or others of the Six Nations apply to me for Counsel, I shall give them such advice, as I conceive best suits with the general situation of Affairs. As to that part of your letter, which regards to be brought out of the Ohio, to the Lake, Lake Erie, to convey you, and such Indians as may be inclined to accompany you to Presqu'Isle, on the West side of the Lake — I beg leave to inform you, that I am not authorized to interfere with your request. I am Sir your most Obedient humble Servant (Signed) A. Gordon Colonel Norton. [Indorsed: 36 Lt. Col. McKechler to Lord Hueville N^o 84. of the 4^th June 1791.]