.MTA2MA.NzE2ODE

when I first came to the nation, the Cherokees requested me to go with them to a ball play. I told them I could go before them in a good course, but would never follow them in an evil one. And you yourself would despise me for turning aside from a direct course to please any one. Now though I have disclaimed all interference with political affairs, yet I have considered it my duty to strengthen the hands of the chiefs, not merely because they were deserving it personally, but also because it was my duty to God. Of course I made it one object to instruct the people, to honor and obey their chiefs; and told them not to speak evil of the rulers of their people. Now, without any further comment, you will see at once, that your proceedings at New Echota were directly at varience with my sentiments, and with my manner of thinking & talking during the whole period of my missionary labours. You will not therefore be surprised when I say that, as appears to me, you then plunged yourself into such a thorn hedge, that I would not, and cannot get to you, without tearing myself to pieces, and getting out of sight and hearing almost of the entire Cherokee nation. You will readily perceive what I want you to do, that is,