[Letters from the Secretary of War to Major Henry Gaither, commanding the Troops of the United States on the State of Georgia.] War Department 29^th April 1792 Sir, From the representations of his Excellency the Governor of Georgia, founded upon the information of M^r Abrajones and others it would appear that the Creeks had recently committed depredations upon the frontiers, and were disposed for war. As to the affair at Trader's hill, it would appear at this distance rather the robbery of some marauders than the result of any design of the Creeks generally, at the same time it is confessed that this view may be dictated partly by the hope that the fact was so. The peaceable Creeks who were at or near Colerain would certainly give it this complexion. But in case of great danger the country ought to be protected by the Militia. The propriety of the system of calling out Cavalry or horsemen may justly be questioned. The expence would probably far exceed the value of the services between them and the foot militia. The Western frontiers experience great benefit, and have great confidence in a species of rangers called scouts. These are the most expert and hardy Woodsmen, and upon whom judgment reliance may be placed. They are generally two of them together, and they traverse the country at right angles to the path used by the Indians. Upon sincerely