"We were desirous to see you on this occasion, as they think you might have been mistaken in destroying that part of the tribe.
"We suppose you cannot answer us upon this subject, as the matter was agreed upon below. But perhaps you may know something of this matter.
"When we heard of this account, we sent back word to our friends remaining among them, telling them not to be pale-hearted because some of them were destroyed, but to keep up with their former engagements.
"We sent off some of our people to Canasaraga, to invite them to come to our village; but they returned an answer that they had sent some of their own runners to Onondaga, to learn the particulars, and they waited for their return.
"Our people brought for answer, that they were much obliged to their children, the Oneidas, for attending to them in their distresses, and they would be glad if they would speak smoothly to their brethren, the Americans, to know whether all this was done by design, or by mistake.
"If it was a mistake, say they, we hope to see our brethren the prisoners—if by design, we still will keep our engagements with you, and not join the King's party. But if our brethren, the Americans, mean to destroy us also, we will not fly—we will wait here and receive our death.
"Brother: This was the answer of the Onondagas. As for us, the Oneidas and Tuscaroras, you know our sentiments. We have supposed we know yours.
"The Commissioners promised us that when they found any thing wrong, they would tell us and make it right.
"Brother: If we have done anything wrong, we shall now be glad if you would now tell us so." [FN]