Pendleton, Nathaniel, 1756-1821 to Henry Knox

Pendleton describes and discusses attempts by a consortium of settlers along the frontier to buy land along the same lines as was done by the Yazou [Yazoo] Companies. Writes, "These are the kind of People who are constantly endeavoring to provoke hostilities with the Indians, in hopes of profiting either by a War, or a treaty. They are endeavoring all in their Power to stir up an opposition to the late treaty with the Creeks, & I am informed, with what foundation in truth I can't say, that Mr. Henry and Mr. Ross of Virginia are in conjunction with them, and propose to be at the House of Assembly which meets this day, in order to stimulate the House to an opposition of the treaty." Relates, "The Treaty is very much disliked here, but very few know the particular reasons of their dislike." Pendleton says purchasing companies are lobbying hard against treaty in the Assembly but Pendleton thinks the Assembly will not go so far. Pendleton says he is off to Augusta the following day and will let Knox know of any news from there. He also wishes to keep this correspondence private.