Tuesday, February 2.
The following Message was received from the President of the United States:
Gentlemen of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives:
I transmit herewith the copy of a letter, dated the 19th of December last, from Governor Blount to the Secretary of War, stating the avowed and daring designs of certain persons to take possession of lands belonging to the Cherokees, and which the United States have, by treaty, solemnly guaranteed to that nation. The injustice of such intrusions, and the mischievous consequences which must necessarily result therefrom, demand that effectual provision be made to prevent them.
G. WASHINGTON.
United States, February 2, 1796.
The said Message and letter were read, and ordered to be referred to the Committee of the whole House, to whom is committed the bill to regulate trade and intercourse with the Indian tribes, and to preserve peace on the frontiers.
Wednesday, February 3.
Lemuel Benton, from South Carolina, appeared, was qualified, and took his seat.