This will be handed you by my friend the Revnd. Gideon Blackburn, who I apprehend has been fortunate enough at length to fall upon the plan which bids fair eventually to civelize the cherokee nation of Indians, and place them in a distinguishing rank amongst polished nations—His exertions are likely to act as a mainspring to the benevolent plan long pursued by the Executive of the United States, after so many attempts have proven abortive—It gives relief to the mind to reflect that a plan can be adopted which if Vigorously pursued, will lead a long lost nation to the rank of Men—No person can visit any of those schools without being the subject of pleasing sensation—I have been present at some of their exhibitions while my mind was hurried into tumults by the alternatings of pleasure, astonishment, and chearing hope in the prospect of their soon becoming an improved and valueable addition to the number and strength of our nation

Near eighty children are cloathed, victualed, and carefully taught—their progress has exceeded my most Sanguine expectations—The care, fatigue fidelity and unremitted exertions of its patron, aided by the prudence of his measures has enabled him to surmount serious difficulties—And all without remuneration for his Services, or sufficient support to effect his design.

Should the Government design to pursue the plan of civilization this will enter deeply into its policy—will lessen and eventually anihilate the Indian expence, and serve more effectually to preserve order, than double our Military establishment, and without the danger of the contamination of their morals so certain on a connection with the Military.—Should the Government appropriate a few thousand dollars annually to aid in this design, I apprehend policy and humanity would combine in the measure, at least, an experiment would be made, the benevolence of which would justify the expence—

I have the honor to be Sir, with Sincere & Great esteem, Your most obedient Hbl Servt.