1. The accusations against Harrison may have concerned land speculation. The governor, while acting as superintendent of sales of public lands, was a member of a company that purchased public lands and offered to pay individuals not to bid on certain parcels. treasury Secretary Gallatin concluded in 1808 that Harrison was not involved in the offers, but he also stated that, although there was nothing improper in Harrison as an individual bidding on public lands, his being a member of a company for that purpose was improper because the main object of such companies was to prevent competition and lower the prices paid for the land, thus diminishing the funds the government acquired from the sales. Gallatin suggested that the administration express dissatisfaction “at such conduct” and prevent a recurrence by sending “a circular to … Superintendents in other districts” (Carter, Territorial Papers, Indiana, description begins Clarence Carter et al., eds., The Territorial Papers of the United States (28 vols.; Washington, 1934–75). description ends 7:328, 548, 562–63). For Gallatin’s 30 Apr. 1808 circular to that effect, see ibid., 563–64.