THE OHIO VALLEY-GREAT LAKES ETHNOHISTORY
ARCHIVES: THE MIAMI COLLECTION
It is noted that the following work from the Miami Archives should be read and
considered within the historical context in which it was composed and printed.
The opinions expressed and the language used do not reflect the opinions or
standards of the Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology, but are, rather,
indicative of thought in that historical moment during which the document was
published.
Aveneau to Cadillac
(June 4, 1702)
Aveneau, C. B. in: Wisconsin Historical
Collection, 16:pp. 213-214 and in Margry,
Découv. et etabl., v, pp. 239, 240.
pp. 213, 214.
|
FROM THE RIVER ST. JOSEPH, June 4, 1702 |
MONSIEUR- No sooner had I received last year the letter that Monsieur the Governor did me the honor of writing to me, inviting the Savages, including the Miamis, to go and settle near the French at the post of Detroit, than I read it to them in their own language, without concealing any of the contents of the letter from them. And now, when I remind them of it, they tell me that it is true that I read it to them; and that I added that, if they went to settle at Detroit, I also would certainly go thither, as I would not consent to abandon them. They replied that they were afraid, amid so large a concourse of people, of being reduced to starvation in a short time, although the prospect of obtaining cheap goods there did not fail to produce a great impression on them.
The news that 100 or 200 Iroquois are to come here next summer to speak to them- which St. Michel told me to tell them (page 214) from you- considerably surprised them, and gave them occasion to doubt the truth of the peace; for they imagined that they were not included in it, especially when they were told again on your behalf that they were to keep on their guard. This, however, has not prevented some young men from starting, a few days ago, on the war-path against the Sioux, notwithstanding all that the old men and myself could say to induce them at least to postpone their march for some time until they should obtain news from Onontio. You know the minds of the savages, I mean their manner of acting, still better than I do. They always pursue their point, so that, if they really wish to go to Detroit, they will assuredly do so; otherwise, they will remain where they are, or at least they will not exert themselves very much to change their residence. I pray God to grant us and them the grace to do his holy will in all things and always. I again present my respects to Madame your wife and ask her for a share in her prayers. I who remain with respect, Monsieur, your very humble and very obedient servant,
|
"C. B. AVENEAU." |
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