Memorandum: Preliminary Conference with the Indians
ad: American Philosophical Society
[September 26, 1753]

They drank Health to the English. We drank their Healths. They ours. They drank the King &c. We wish’d them good Night; and told them we would send for them again tomorrow.

Orders to all Tavern keepers and others not to let the Indians have any Spirituous Liquors.

Thursday 27. Sept.

Considering the Goods not come agreed to forbear further Treaty till their Arrival, It being necessary the Presents of Condolence should be first made to wipe away Tears, &c. of which we let the Indians know.

Enquir’d of Croghan and Montour concerning the Virginia Treaty and learnt that the Indians had now forbid the Virginians building the Fort at Mohongala. They would defend the Country themselves and drive off the French, provided they might be supply’d with Powder and Lead. These should be lodg’d in a particular Place under the Care of Trent, Guest, and Montour.

The Half King is gone to warn off the French. If they will not go he will strike &c.

The Council at Onondago neglect them. Therefore they will stir themselves.

The Virginia Presents chiefly fine Cloths, and a few Guns.

Conrad Weiser talks privately with a few Indians, learns that the Cagnawaga Indians who came with the French were dissatisfied with the Expedition; &c.

Commissioners Agree with J. Carson for a Quantity Goods to be sent hither tomorrow, at Philadelphia Price with the Carriage.

12 or 14 Gentlemen dine with us at our Expence.

623117 = 005-064a.html