On the second morning, Newota knew in advance what the governor would say, having been thoroughly briefed by one of the Creek leaders who worked closely with the Indian superintendent. Elijah Clarke had presented the settlers’ most important demands: that no native villages be established on or near the Oconee River, and that the two escapees from Big Elk’s band be found and delivered to the settlers for trial and execution. After Governor Wright proclaimed the settlers’ ultimatum as his own proposal, the Indian leaders repaired to their own settlement and discussed the matter for the remainder of the day. The next morning, Newota interpreted Emistisiguo’s response to the entire assembly as the chief stood erect, with arms folded across his chest:

“We will honor the agreements made last year with our British brothers regarding territorial boundaries. There have been violations on both sides, but I will guarantee our commitment provided the governor gives an equal assurance that his troops will prevent illegal settlements on our land. It will not be possible for the two braves of Big Elk to be delivered to white men for trial and punishment. We acknowledge that they have been guilty of serious crimes and, although your people have also committed murder against innocent people, we ourselves will punish those of our own tribes. I will deliver their scalps to you before the next full moon.”

The chief paused and then added his crucial element as an apparent afterthought. “We know that the British need to obtain skins and hides from our people, and we are willing to resume trade without further delay.”

The governor glanced at the faces of his associates, and all the British officials indicated their agreement with the proposal. However, Elijah Clarke would show no flexibility in the matter.

His face was flushed and his voice somewhat strident when he glared around and said, “We ain’t goin’ to agree to any Indian settlements near the Oconee. Our people have suffered too much from murder, rape, and the burnin’ of our homes. We demand the right to cross the river, both to hunt and also to defend ourselves. Also, we’re the ones who suffered from Big Elk’s renegade attacks, and it’s our right to give them the punishment they deserve.”