| Summary: | Schermerhorn writes on behalf of the United States commissioners who are negotiating the cession of Cherokee land east of the Mississippi River. In the letter he informs the council that the Cherokee government, adopted in 1827, is not recognized by the state or national governments of the United States: "...on the contrary, the Cherokees have been expressly informed, at the time of this organization...that this act of theirs was contrary to the constitution & laws of the United States; and therefore it could not be done." Therefore, when negotiating the cession of the Cherokee territory, the commissioners will only work with "the Cherokee people, assembled in General council, according to their ancient usages and customs and chiefs, head men and warriors." He then discusses the Cherokee delegation who traveled to Washington the previous winter "as your agents to settle all your difficulties with the United States"; even though the U.S. government agreed to pay the amount they requested ($5,000,000), the men would not accept: "...they...proposed that this matter should be referred to the Cherokee nation in General council to deliberate & determine on the subject; in order to produce harmony & good feeling among themselves & to prevent any unjust imputations or prejudices, against themselves or theirs." Schermerhorn now asks the council to appoint a committee to settle the matter, and he warns that the U.S. government will accept no other negotiations it the Cherokees reject this opportunity. A transcription is included.
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