[Extract from the letter of James Mc^Henry Esq^r Secretary at War To Isaac Williams Jun^r] War Office Oct^r 6, 1797 Sir, you may inform the Mandots, Ottawas & Chippews who have applied to the President through you to have a treaty held to enable him to convey or cede from, a certain portion of their lands considered by the him, together, to be in circumstances admit of it, although so to form a circumstances admit of it, At this moment, and until the treaty you have transmitted has been seen, which the surveys you have furnished, I cannot be ascertained with any great how much of the land it will be proper to receive— further however, it would therefore you will please be answerable to know the account shall be made fully, fell that the home at the time the lands shall be made formally determined — As to the tract of land which you wish to have purchased or noted, I generally think it being under similar circumstances as that the proposition said to the United States, it will be made a subject of discussion and negotiation at the treaty — In the mean time, I beg to advise you to inform him of it to the President intention to comply so far as comports with the National along with your request on the head. With respect to the boundary attempts orders will be given that a part of the annuity for the ensuing year shall consist of the implements most effectual to the Indian Nations among them, and arrangements made as soon as it can be done to aid you in extending the knowledge of [undecipherable] among them. The [undecipherable] you speak of in your letter of the 6 instant has not been overlooked by the President, but considered in the appointment which he has given you. I have no doubt but you will execute the duties of your trust by the appointment with fidelity, & continue to approve the approbation & that of the United States— I am Sir / y^r Hbl Ser^t James McHenry