To George Washington from Henry Knox, 31 July 1792
From Henry Knox
War-department, July 31 ’st 1792.
Sir.
It is with deep regret I transmit the enclosed paper;1 the purport of which I have just received from Mr Morris.
The number of persons with Major Trueman—the time—and other circumstances—render the account, but too credible. It is probable something upon this subject will be received shortly from the Ohio.2 I have the honor to be Sir, with the highest respect, Your most obedient servt
H. Knox
secy of War.
LS, DLC:GW; LB, DLC:GW.
1. Knox’s enclosure has not been identified.
2. On 15 Aug. the Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia) printed an “Extract of a letter, dated Buffaloe creek, July 19, 1792,” which reads in part: “By a person who left Head Quarters, Fort Washington, the 11th ult. and arrived here on Wednesday last, we are informed, that Col. Harben [John Hardin], Major [Alexander] Trueman, and two others, were killed by the Indians a short distance from Fort Jefferson, on their way to the Indian towns, to invite them to a treaty; this information was brought to Head Quarters by a party of men and an Indian from Post St. Vincent [Vincennes], two days before our informant left it; we also understand, that accounts have been received in this town, from Buffaloe creek, by the way of Fort Franklin, containing information similar to the above—(We most sincerely lament the loss of such valuable men as Col. Harden and Major Trueman, and would suggest the propriety of sending those members of Congress, who proposed, and so strenuously supported pacific measures to be adopted with the Indian nations, at this time, with the next message or invitation for a treaty.)”