Address from an Indian Chief of the Penobscot Tribe

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The Committee who were appointed to confer with the Indians, reported as follows, viz:

The Committee appointed by the honourable Colony Congress now sitting, to treat with the Indian Chief from the Penobscot Tribe, after an introduction on their part, received from the Indian the following Address, viz:

The representation he now makes, and the engagements he enters into, are in behalf of the whole Tribe he represents. His heart is good, honest, and upright in all he says. The English are a people old and strong, but they are children and weak. They have a large tract of land which they have a right to call their own, and have possessed accordingly for many years. These lands Have been encroached upon by the English, who have for miles on end cut much of their good timber. They ask that the English would interpose and prevent such encroachments for the future, and they will assist us with all their power in the common defence of our country; and they hope, if the Almighty be on our side, the enemy will not be able to deprive us of our lands. They request that Captain Lane be an agent for them to settle all matters relative to the above difficulties respecting their lands. They desire a Commissary may be sent among them, of whom they may purchase goods. They desire provisions, powder, &c˙, may be sent them, which they will buy at a reasonable rate. They say they have been much imposed upon by our traders, and desire such evils may be by us prevented.

Ordered, That the request of the Indians, as mentioned in said Report, be considered by the Committee aforesaid.