In this letter to William Blount, Governor of Southwest Territory, Knox conveys President Washington's concerns about white inroads onto peaceable parts of Cherokee lands. President Washington asks that Blount ensure that white perpetrators be brought to justice. Warns Blount that efforts at peace, moderation and justice will be in vain unless crimes are punished. Treaties will be at an end, and violence and injustice will be the arbiters of all future disputes; will shed innocent blood and depopulate frontiers. Asks Blount to try to pacify those injured and attempt to restore good faith in eyes of Indians. Provides guidance on compensation through David Allison, storekeeper. President's policy is that if war is necessary with Indians, it should be under the auspices of justice, and not on the basis of the wanton blood thirsty disposition of the whites, or any other unjustifiable conduct. Knox asks that Blount continue to communicate with President of United States and notes that nothing would be more satisfactory than peace with Indian tribes founded on humanity and justice.