Letter from Chief John Ross and Joseph Vann to Captain John Drew, Executive Counselor, Webbers Falls, instructing him to 'secure an amicable adjustment of the affairs.' (Moulton). One sheet of paper with handwritten text in ink on recto and verso. Folder 1112

Ex. Department. Park Hill July 2nd 1861 Sir We regret very much indeed to hear that difficulties of a serious character exist in your neighborhood between some of the half & full blood Cherokees which we have been informed may be in part the result of a mutual misunderstanding. The object of this communication is to call you attention to this subject and to ask your kindly interference to secure an amicable adjustment of the affair. We greatly regret to hear of difficulties among our people at any time and particularly so at the present time, when surrounded by the commotions that exist among the people of the states. Please impress upon your neighbors the importance of harmony and good feeling and of avoiding every cause of dissension. There is no reason why we should split up & become involved in internal strife & violence on account of the political condition of the states. We should really have nothing to do with them but remain quiet and observe their relations of peace & friendship towards all the people of the states imposed by our treaties. By this means alone can we avoid every cause for hostility from either section of the country and upon this policy we ought all to be able to attend to our ordinary affairs and avoid all cause of strife among ourselves- Yrs Very Respectfully Capt John Drew John Ross Prl. Chief Ex. Counsellor Cherokee Nation Webbers Falls. C.N. & Joseph Vann Ass. P. Chief Cherokee Nation

[Transcribed by Danielle Culp., 2014-08-29]