NYYM_scrapbook_111

of the perfect knowledge which he possessed of the English, as well as his native language. The proposals made by the agent of the proprietors, to the Chiefs in council, were fully explained to them; and they were distinctly ad- vised by me, that if a sale was made, it must be a voluntary act on their part, as they were at perfect liberty, to sell their lands or to retain them, as they should under the circumstances think expedient and proper. Red Jacket, opposed the sale, of any of the Indian lands, from commencement of the negotiation. There- fore, after the treaty was committed to writing, and ready to be executed, he was advised by me, that if on mature reflection, his opinion should remain unchanged, he ought not to sign it, as his name and seal would be evidence of approbation, and could not be contradicted. It was there read, article by article, in presence of myself, W. N. Gosham, superintendent on the part of Massachu- setts. Horatio Jones, interpreter, Jasper Parrish, agents, and interpreted by Dr. Jimeson, by whom no part of it could have been misunderstood. Having been there read, explained, and declared to be satisfactory, it was executed by every one of the chiefs present. Having understood that Red Jacket, together with a number of the Tonewanta Indians (most of whom are not Chiefs) had procured a remonstrance to be drawn at Butavia, a village about forty miles East of this place; which remonstrance they had signed, and caused to be forwarded to the seat of Government, I thought it my duty thus briefly to state the facts in relation to the treaty, and in which every person present will fully con- cur. I was aware at the time, that a few of the Indians who were scattered over the small reservations upon the Genesee river, and a part of the Tonnewan- tas, were opposed to the proceeding; but they compose a very small proportion of the tribe, and have very little weight in its councils. As it regards these people, I am satisfied the sale is a beneficial one, and believe the stipulated annuity, equal to the fair value of the lands sold, including the amount paid for the preemption right. I beg to be advised of the receipt of the treaty, and of the fulfilment of the Conditions thereof, on the part of the grantees. I have the honor &;. (signed)Oliver Forward.Commissioner.