Translation
Minute of the return and attendance of the Mohawk chiefs at the council; order to forward them home
In a Council at Fort Willem Hendrick, 5th June, 1674.
Present — | Governor, Anthony Colve, and |
The Council of War. |
The Mohawk sachems who left here on the 22nd May last, being returned, appear this
day in council, thank the Governor for the late received treatment, and request now
that they may be conveyed back to Fort Nassou in a sloop, which was promised them,
and request, furthermore, whereas their nation and all other Indians have been
forbidden since sometime back to lodge in Willemstadt, that from now henceforth that
they may be allowed to do so, being brethren of the Dutch; also that some orders may
be issued respecting trade, so that they may purchase as heretofore a coat of duffels
for one beaver, and all other goods in proportion; finally promising at all times to
remain faithful to the Dutch as their brethren; and in order that they may be
stronger, to resist all their enemies, they say, that they had removed all their
three Castles now into one Castle; and thereupon present two belts of Wampum.
The
Governor answers: They shall be forwarded by the first sloop going to Willemstadt,
and a letter also shall be furnished them recommending the Commissaries to exhibit
all possible favor to the Mohawks, as brethren of the Dutch; concerning the dearness
of merchandize, that is caused by the very long war in Europe, but so soon as peace
will return, and the Dutch will receive goods in abundance from Fatherland, then will
thsy furnish goods to the Mohawks, as their brethren, as cheap as it is in any way
possible; and thereupon they were presented with three coats of duffels, two
cartouches of powder, about 20 lbs. lead, 1 pair of hose, 1 hat, and departed
content.