Letter Signed

McHenry Instructs Guion to Inform Citizens and Spanish Garrisions of Est. of U.S. Governance in Mississippi Territory

James McHenry asks the commander of U.S. troops at Natchez (Guion, at this time) to inform inhabitants that a bill establishing government for the Mississippi Territory (of which they are a part) is before Congress. Addresses possibility that the Spanish garrisons at Walnut Hills and Natchez have not evacuated as ordered -- instructs Guion to inform them of the establishment of U.S. governance over the region, and that if they do not withdraw the U.S. will prevent any reinforcement with men or guns.

1798

04

02

Near Downings Town

Natchez

Partially Illegible

The Commander of the troops of the United States at Natches.

see below

James McHenry

Near Downings Town

You will be pleased to inform the inhabitants of the Natchez that the bill for establishing a government over the Mississippi territory including the district of Natchez has passed congress and that the President will immediately proceed to appoint the officers and give effect to the new government

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