Commissioners report that on 29 June 1793, they embarked at Fort Erie for Sandusky, but winds not favorable and returned. On 30 June, winds still unfavorable; nevertheless commissioners embarked on Schooner Dunmore. On 5 July, Commissioners still detained by unfavorable winds. Vessel arrived from the Miami with Colonel Butler British Superintendent Indian Affairs, and Captain Brant, with fifty deputized Indians. Shawanese Chief Cat's Eyes addressed commissioners. He reports that he was sent by council at Miami to meet Federal Commissioners. They request presence of the father, the governor of the province. Asks not to be uneasy because of late arrival at Sandusky. Wampum exchanged and agreed to meet at Governor John Graves Simcoe's residence at Niagara on next day.
Present at this meeting 7 July 1793 at Navy Hall, Niagara: Federal Commissioners, Colonel Simcoe, Governor General Upper Canada, civil and military officers, deputation of Indians, Captain Brant.
Captain Brant, interpreter, explains that reason why Indian delegation was late was out of fear of white warriors on lands north of Ohio. Indians also want to know if the Commissioners have authority to make treaties and establish boundaries between United States and Indian Nations. Commissioners will provide answers following day; council fire extinguished.
On following day, 8 July, commissioners express regret over presence of military force; assure Indians that President of United States General George Washington has forbidden hostilities during Sandusky proceedings; General Anthony Wayne has issued proclamation of same. Commissioners answer that they have been given authority to make treaties. Point out that concessions will have to take place on both sides if treaty to be successful. Ask for names of chiefs and nations represented. Speech was translated by James Dean in Oneida tongue, by Captain Brant's nephew in the Shawanese tongue, by another interpreter in Chippewa language.
Cat's Eyes addressed commissioners by expressing thanks and acknowledge presence of English fathers. They take up pipes and retire to encampments. Will provide answer on next day.