SW_JP1796_062

some piece of writing, contrary to the Custom of Indians; and that they did not understand the writing, and therefore would not sign it; and because they had refused to sign this writing, their Chiefs had taken away their Lots and had deprived them of several national priviledges; and divers other Charges they had brought against them. The Oneida Speaker, Cap Peter, opened the Council with the customary Formality of Thankfulness to the great Spirit for being favoured to meet Face to Face in that