Wednesday, January 17.
The following Message was received from the President of the United States:
Gentlemen of the Senate, and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:
The situation of affairs between the United States and the Cherokee Indians having evinced the expediency of a treaty with that nation, for the promotion of justice to them, as well as of the interests and convenience of our citizens, I have nominated, and, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, appointed Commissioners to hold conferences, and conclude a treaty, as early as the season of the year and the convenience of the parties will admit.
As we know very well, by experience, such negotiations cannot be carried on without considerable expenses, I recommend to your consideration the propriety of making an appropriation, at this time, for defraying such as may be necessary for holding and concluding a treaty.
That you may form your judgments with greater facility, I shall direct the proper officer to lay before you an estimate of such articles and expenses as may be thought indispensable.
JOHN ADAMS.
United States, January 17, 1798.