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Red Clay 25th May 1836

Mr. John H. Payne

Dear Sir Yours of the 23d was duly received. When I last wrote you I had just been informed by a Cherokee, that he had most of the numbers of the Cherokee Phoenix, and that I might select those you wished for to complete your file. When I came to examine his papers I found he had but a small part of the file. I selected what I could and have forwarded them to you by my two sons who left here three weeks since for New York. You have probably received them before this. Soon after receiving your letter I wrote to Mr. Pratt requesting him to assist me in procuring the remaining numbers of the Phoenix. I also mentioned to him with regard to the discussion you spoke of in your letter. I have had no reply from him - I received three copies of your statement for which I thank you. In a few days they were in circulation, and I have not been fortunate enough to lay my hands on one since. I was at the time a little sorry my name was mentioned, but I do not know that any harm has