Abrant Kan-ak-ar-a-toph-qua, Chief Sachem of the Mohawks, King of the Six Nations and Lord of all their Castles, etc., etc., to all Liege Subjects. Health.
Whereas, tea is an Indian Plant and of right belongs to the Indians of every land and tribe; and whereas, our good allies, the English, have in lieu of it given us that pernicious liquor, Rum, which they have poured down our throats to steal away our brains; and whereas, the English have learned the most expeditious way or method of drawing an infusion of said Tea, without the expense of wood or trouble of fire, to the benefit and emolument of the East India trade, and, as vastly greater quantities may be used by that method than by that heretofore practiced in this country, and therefore help to support the East India Company under the present melancholy circumstances:
Therefore, we of our certain knowledge, special grace, and mere motion will permit or allow any of our liege subjects to barter, buy, or procure of any of our English allies, Teas of any kind: provided always each man can purchase not less than ten nor more than one hundred and fourteen boxes at a time and those the property of the East India Company; and provided also that they pour the same into the lakes, rivers, and ponds, that, while our subjects in their hunting, instead of slaking their thirst with cold water, they may do it with tea.
Of all which our subjects will take notice and govern themselves accordingly. By command,
To-ne-ter-a-que.
“Attention, braves,” said the sachem. “Each subject will provide himself with a tomahawk and be at the wigwam one hour after candle-lighting to-night, prepared to carry out the proclamation. The tribe will remember that the Mohawks do not talk much, but do in silence what they have to do.”
They heard the proclamation in silence, and one by one took their departure. Roger said he would be in the Old South Meetinghouse at three o’clock to hear the result of the visit of Mr. Rotch to Governor Hutchinson.
“I doubt if I shall be there; I may have an engagement early in the evening,” said Tom.
Abraham Duncan said the same.