Copy of a letter addressed to the officer commanding the detachment of the United States troops.

Alatoony Gold Mines, C.N. Oct. 4th 1830

Sir, Since you were here, ' ordered the Cherokees to desist digging for gold, they have had a consultation on the subject, and have come to the following conclusions: They are labouring in an honest way, upon their own lands, for the support of their families; they intruded upon the possessions of none; they infringe upon none. The United States, by treaties, and otherwise, have acknowledged the country to be theirs, and have stationed their troops within its bounds to protect them in their territorial possessions, and notwithstanding your orders they cannot believe that the arms of the government will be employed against them without just cause or aggression. They respect the Government and its officer, the intend nothing but peace ' friendship; and they do not wish to add any thing to the embarrassments under which their nation is now laboring, by their imprudence; but so firmly convinced are they of their rights and their privileges, that they are still disposed to continue their mining operations. They do not invite difficulties and sufferings; and disclaim any unpleasant feelings towards the officers commanding the United States troops in the Nation, and are perfectly resigned to such fate as the consequence of their honest labour upon their own lands may consign them to, under the laws of the United States.

With sentiments of regard and esteem we are respectfully your ob't servants.

WILLIAM S. COODEY

JAS BROWN,

THOS. BIGBY,

THOS. WOODWARD,

ELIJAH HICKS,

WULLANEDAH,

JAMES BIGBY,

GEORGE HICKS,

NATHAN HICKS.

P.S. Should it suit your convenience the Cherokees will be glad to see you on your return, and have some further conversation.