NYYM_scrapbook_054

Norwich U. Canada 2 mo 10th 1817 Dear Friend I rec. thy kind communication Vz. E Moore on the Indian concern--may say, It was far from my intention by what I wrote the smallest descourage. in the way of an extension of care to the poor Natives in this Land, but only that the concern might be proceeded in with all possible caution--for The natives who are numerous perhaps 2000 on Grand River composed of part of the 6 Na- tions--&; a settlement of Mohawks in the vecinity of Adolphus Town I apprehend would be very grateful for any friendly and interference from Friends--those on G River I am acquainted with, have some imperfect notion of cultivation in Agriculture &; civilization--one Tribe the Mohawk generally profess Christianity--under the care of a Clergyman who under a salary from G. visits them occasionally and administers what they call Ordinances but I apprehend--its influence has had very trifling effects except a little formality--its like People like Print A number of White People have occasionally for a few years settle amongst them--and with scarcely an exception they have been of abandoned Character--their Example has powerfully corrupted &; continues to corrupt their Moral Character encourage Drunkenness profanity Debauchery chicanry &; every vice--Government has been very Liberal in annually supplying them when pressed with want but even Government has almost become discou- raged with them--for Aid seems only to render many of them less provident &; more proflegate I have had several interviews with some of the principle chiefs who seem disheartened and talk of leaving the country on account of the bad effects of the wicked White peoples influence among them. I have also confered with some of the Deputy Agents for Indian affairs and am of the mind that a few friends settled amongst them