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Jacob Lindley's Account, 1793

SW_JL1793_Page_104

treaties and belts. Some long and broad belts, hesaid they had, that were intended, not only to bind us by the hands, but clasp us by the arms, so that no small accidents should in future, be able to make a separation. And that, notwithstanding all that had happened, the Wyandots felt some of the old affec-tion to possess their breasts, and he hoped we wouldfind it so at the general Council: but could speak fornone but themselves. We desired our interpreter, J. Heckewelder, to assure him we possessed the samelove and friendship for them, and for all other Indians, that we, or our forefathers, ever did — that our prin-ciples had always restrained us from making waragainst them. But when we believed the govern-ment was disposed to make peace with them, onprinciples of justice, we were willing to leave ourhomes and near connexions, and at a great expense,undertake a long and hazardous journey, to endea-vour to promote it, and to be present at the conclu-ding of so good a work. On delivery of which, hesaid, he knew long ago we did not fight, but werefor peace. He then got up, and shook hands withFriends, then sat down, and spoke in substance as fol-lows: That as we had come a long journey, and wereall preserved in health, it was evident the GreatSpirit was pleased with our coming; and he hopedsome good would be done, and that the Great Spiritwould bring us home in the same good health, withpeace and joy. To which we replied, we were gladof such an opportunity to talk with him, and if thegreat and good work of peace could be effected, wehoped we should return home with joy and peace;which was all the reward we wanted or looked for. He asked whether it would be disagreeable, if he