Gazette Of The United States

Extract of a letter from a gentleman at Newtown, 20 miles above Tioga point, dated June 23.

"On the ninth day we reached Newtown, where the Indian treaty is to be held, because the waters are too low to permit the boats with presents and provisions to go up to the Painted Post. We alighted at Col. Pickering's lodgings, and found him conferring with some Oneida and other Eastern Indians, who have come down with a view to mediate a peace. Their chief, Hendrick Aupaumut, the same from whom I received a letter some time since, was speaking when we entered: "The little Tomahawk the Indians fight with," said he, "costs them very little. They can kill game with it, and support themselves; but the Great Hatchet that the United States use in war costs a great deal; and those who carry it into our country must be provided for at a great expence. I know it is said the United States are so powerful that they could rise and destroy all the Indians at once.— It is true, they are too powerful for the Indians; but remember, tho' you may kill some wolves, and frighten the rest away, you cannot destroy them all. They will return and infest you.—It were therefore much better for the United States to live in peace with the Indians. A great while ago, ourselves and the Shawanee were one people; but the Great Spirit caused a famine, and we separated to seek for food. We still speak the same language. I am willing to go to them and persuade them to peace. All other Indians know that we have always been friends to the English. They all acknowledge we know more about the white people than they do. If I go, I know it will be at the risque of my life. Perhaps your warriors will arrive at the same time, and then nothing can be done. I therefore want to see some of your Great Men. If they will keep your young men at home, I will go. Perhaps I may be able to induce their Chiefs to come down and treat with your Great Men about a lasting peace." This offer is now under consideration. We hear that about 800 of the Six Nation Indians will be at the Painted Post to-day. They are expected here by the end of the week; but it is not likely that the treaty will be held before the 27th or 30th of the month. After which we hope a week or ten days will restore us to our friends and the comforts of civilized life."