University of Virginia Library

In Biddle, "Big Ox."—Ed.

The captains carried with them a large number of "Indian commissions," or
certificates, on printed blanks measuring 7 1/2 X 12 1/4 inches, which they would fill out
with the chiefs' names. These read as follows:

THOMAS JEFFERSON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

From the powers vested in us and    by the above authority: To all who shall see these
presents, Greeting:

KNOW YE, that from the special confidence reposed by us in the sincere and unalterable attachment
of    chief of the    Nation to the United States, as also from the
abundant proofs given by him of his amicable disposition to cultivate peace, harmony, and good
neighbourhood with the said States, and the citizens of the same; we do by the authority vested in
us, require and charge, all citizens of the United States, all Indian Nations, in treaty with the same,
and all other persons whomsoever, to   acknowledge, and treat the said  
and his   in the most friendly manner, declaring him to be the friend and ally of the said
States: the government of which will at all times be extended to their protection, so long as they do
acknowledge the authority of the same.

Having signed with our hands and affixed our seals

this   day of   180