NYYM_scrapbook_068

Address from Stockbridge Indians dated 12 Sept. 1817 To the Society of Friends at the city of New York. Brothers, We have thought it is our duty to address a few words unto you in order to brighten that friendship which your forefathers and ours have always maintained; and which we, their children are still fondly cherishing under the auspi- ces of the Great and Good Spirit. We have this day received information, that our Western Friends the Seneca Nation have recently agreed to adopt the good path, which leads to civilization &; which has been very often pointed out for them by friendly White People, but particularly by friends, who have always manifested a tender regard for the welfare of Indians &;c. The main body of the Senecas have for years paste, repeat- edly rejected the friendly offers, which you have made to them that is, that they should endeavour to follow the path of civili- zed life. However we have now rejoiced to hear that they will now endeavour to follow husbandry, and have now send a messenger from one of their tribe to notify you of their determinations, &; to crave your advice &; assistence. Two other Indians we have understood will accompa- ney him, one from the Onandaga tribe &; the other from Oneida. We sincerely hope that they will persevere in their determinations to follow the good path, which will render them happy and comfortable. We moreover hope that friends will render them their assistence in this lauda- ble work or beginning. We would further inform you that our people have lately found the good effects of husbandry, which they have particularly practiced these many years since. We believe there has never been so much english grain raised by our people as it has been this season. The corn in general very promising at present and have reason to will turn out abundantly if the frosts do not off again. We