May it please the honourable Gentlemen of the Senate to peruse the following thoughts dictated by humanity & love of my Country. A few minutes since I told General Knox I wished to be sent against the Indians as soon as possible, & that I knew some of the Senate allso wished it. General Knox replyed then lett them send you I am your friend.

Therefore Gentlemen, I hope you will be pleased to Consider my reasons for wishing to go against them in the Winter. In the Spring I make no dout but that many Tribes will join to pursue the advantage they Latly gained, & if so no doubt there will be great Carnage. Butt in the Winter they will be unprepared of Course easily subdued, and if treated with merciful humanity they may become our firm friends & allies.

To go against them, with design to take their Land, or Property from them, I would not, to be made the sovereign Ruler of the whole Globe. To go against them to convince them of our superiority, only to [ma]ke them our friends would give me pleasure

I am Honourable Gentlemen / Your Obedient humble Servant