I had the honor of receiving your favors of 29 Sep. by the mail on the 11 instant, and that of the 13th of August on the same day, the letter came to hand by Mr. John Deadrick from the district of Mero , from such Circumstances it appears there is great [unclear: (document damaged) ] And irregularities in carrying your dispatches to this place.

Captains Wade and Sparks have arrived, neither of [unclear: their ] Companies compleat [complete]. I would beg leave to mention, that three companies of Infantry And a troop of horse, in my opinion would [added: not] be more than adequate: The Valuable Consequences that would result from cavalry being employed in addition to the infantry would ensure the safety of the Frontiers. The very appearance of well appointed cavalry will always have powerful effects, in [unclear: Owing ] and detering [deterring] the indians from Hostilities.

I have continued the Militia Gaurd [Guard] at Fort Blount , to remain there untilrelieved [until relieved] by regular troops.

Several families on the road to Cumberland through the wilderness have had their horses stolen and waggons [wagons] plundered by the indians. I have wrote the agent & Cheifs [Chiefs]
on

on the Occasion, and have my hopes they will put a stop to any further roberies [robberies] [added: being] committed of the kind.

I shall endeavor to prevent encroachments on the land recieved [received] to the indians for their hunting grounds, Altho [Although] as in a former letter I observed to you, it will be difficult to accomplish, and will require time and address, nonetheless have no Doubt I shall effect it, Without having recourse to any Violent and coersive [coercive] means —

I have the honor to be
With great respect
your obedt. Servt. [obedient Servant]
(Signed)

John Sevier

Secy [Secretary] of the department of war

[added: Letter to the
Honble [Honorable] James
McHenry Sec [Secretary] of War
17 Jany [January] 1797
(No. [Number] 100)
Record.]