Ere this I suppose that you will have recd. [received] the Extra Circular of the Commissioners and the Superintendant [Superintendent] of Cherokee removal together with a copy of Mr. Harris 's letter which I sent you by the last mail. from appearances I have no hopes that you will be able to effect any thing on any other basis than that of general removal. If this be the case. the grave question presents itself what will be best [added: to do] under all circumstances. two alternatives only presents itself to my mind. to Stay and be forced off under the false treaty, or to treat on the basis of general removal. under such circumstances I would say let us make a treaty. if the details could be made more satisfactory [added: to] us. that is if we can get a longer time given to remove in the money placed under the control of the Nation and left free to move to whatever place we may choose the greatest difficulties must follow in either cases, but the latter course in my own opinion would be best for us. we can expect Nothing else but oppression from the Govmt [Government] of the U.S. So long as we remain in their limits. and if we had the means It may be possible that we could find a Country. out of the United States Which we might live in. I can [added: well] imagine the situation the delegation are placed in the people expect you to do the best you can for them. under [added: the present] all circumstances It will be impossible to please all. and the time seems to be at hand when something must be done and

that without much delay. — I have not heard from you since your [added: letter] dated 16 Ult. [Ultimo] we are all labouring [laboring] in great suspense to hear our final doom. there is very little business going on in the immigrating line. the late Extra Circular wont have the desired effect of those who issued it. all are waiting to hear from you.

We are generally will [well] I remain Your affectionate Brother

Lewis Ross

My Respects to your Colleagues-

Calhoun [unclear]
January 25

Lewis Ross
38