Virginia Argus

INDIAN NEWS.

Extract of a letter from Ninian Edwards, Governor of the Illinois Territory, to Governor Scott

"Elvirade, Randolph county, Illinois Territory, July 23, 1812.

"I have this moment received the most important communications on the subject of Indian relations, that have been made from any quarter in the present year—containing a complete development of the system upon which they have hitherto acted and the measures they hereafter intend to pursue.

"Being engaged in preparing dispatches for the War department, it is impossible for me now to detail the information I have received—or even to give you extracts from it. I hazard nothing however, in saying that it unquestionably proves, that it has been the object of the Indians to amuse and deceive us, that they might gain time to strike some decisive blow—That British agents have been and still are very active in exciting their hostility towards us—that the hostile confederacy is as extensive and formidable at least as any that the western country has ever had to contend with—That a very short time ago they were only waiting for directions from the British when to attack us; that they contemplate simultaneous attacks, upon different parts of our country and flatter themselves they will be able to overrun these Territories.

"I doubt very much whether these circumstances do not justify the apprehension that an emergency may present itself which the government may not be prepared to meet owing to the distance of Washington city from the scene of action; & the length of time that must elapse before any communication can reach there—And I submit to you the expediency of being prepared to aid in the execution of any operations which the government may determine on—believing however that circumstances may arise that would even justify anticipating their measure.—By the next mail I will forward you copies of the communications I have alluded to, pledging myself in the mean time, that they will convince you that I have not expressed myself too strongly upon this subject."

The Governor of this state in answer to Gov. Edwards has informed him that he has received orders to furnish him with what troops he may need out of our quota; and requesting him to make known to him as soon as circumstances may require in what number and kind of troops he may need.—Kentucky Paper.