Tardy interpreters, arrival of Benjamin Lincoln, overdue wampum, and concern over potential troop movements of General Wayne
Document 1793Commissioners report that General Lincoln arrived on 25 May with stores in the batteaux. No interpreters as of yet; nor is there any white wampum. Duplicate letter enclosed from Colonel McKee. The delay of proceedings provides time to obtain interpreters and white wampum. If the white wampum does not arrive in time, will borrow from British agents at Niagara or Detroit. Send the wampum to Major Littlehales, Secretary to Governor Simcoe, Niagara; or send by post to Reading, on to Williamsburg on Genesee. Quantity of white wampum is 80,000. Jasper Parrish reports seeing vast sums in Philadelphia. If the wampum comes from Major Craig, please pay him. James Dean [interpreter] has arrived. Extreme jealousy of Indians will prompt them to magnify every thing that appears hostile. General Wayne's movement to Fort Washington [near Cincinnati Ohio] will likely not give umbrage; he has assured Cornplanter he will make no advance beyond established posts. Commissioners express concern that movement by Wayne could generate suspicion of treachery toward Indian leaders while attending treaty especially if sent [north] toward Ft. Jefferson [near Greenville Ohio]. Commissioners don't recall Knox's specific instructions to Wayne; want to express concern that troop movements could upset treaty negotiations.
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