I have been honored with Yours of the 25th. Instant—1 The Chiefs have just left me— They insist on their having plenary powers, & seem much to regret that the Instrument expressing those powers cannot be found— The Interpreter as well as the Chiefs are certain that it was presented to the President.

For my own part I perceive no reason to doubt, but on the contrary I beleive that they are authorized to come to a final Settlement with us— As the Treaty is to be held under National Authority, it is of importance that the National Government be satisfied that they treat only with Persons duly authorized— If the President is content to proceed, I am— if he should hesitate, the Interpreter and One of the Chiefs will return and obtain a New Instrument—but this will consume much time, and they are very impatient to finish their Business and go Home in order to attend and assist at some Great Council Fire soon to be held. How far it would be expedient to conclude with them provisionally, I am not clear— to ratify or not to ratify is a question which would enable and perhaps induce mischievous Men among those Indians to give further trouble to the President and to us.—2

As to Col. Wadsworth—3 I really think the Business of holding the proposed Treaty cannot be committed to any Gentleman more worthy of Confidence.— I have the Honor to be With Great Respect Sir Your Mo[st] Obt & H’ble Servt.