“I seemed to be expected and was well received. Chief Sunoma was informed about the issues and prepared to respond satisfactorily—”

The chief interrupted him with a slightly uplifted hand. “It will be helpful for me to know in more detail what was said. There is nothing else that awaits my attention.”

Newota thought for just a few moments and spoke again: “Chief Sunoma first wanted to give me his analysis of the current situation. He pointed out that the British and even most of the rebels want peace and trade, but some frontiersmen want no trade and welcome armed conflict with all our tribes. After a few encounters of the Rangers with white settlers, some angry Georgians and Carolinians have urged their political leaders to declare an all-out punitive war against us, as was done against our Cherokee brothers in Virginia and the Carolinas. They claim that any Creeks who give comfort to the British are to be treated as defeated enemies and have forfeited possession of our land.

“He emphasized how different Georgia is from the other colonies, where our people have been forced far westward by military pressure and insignificant rewards for more than a century. In this colony, because of the benevolence of the king, we still inhabit all the land except for a small strip along the coast and just west of the Savannah River. He realizes that this policy in Georgia has formed a natural sense of trust and cooperation between the British and our tribes. Creek and Cherokee leaders have been wise in granting allegiance where the natural advantages exist. He acknowledged that both American and British forces are now seeking the support of the Middle and Lower Creeks since effective control of Savannah and Charles Town has given the rebels a temporary advantage in trade opportunities. Chief Sunoma was careful not to criticize Superintendent John Stuart, who is attempting to overcome this handicap by using overland routes from north Florida and the Flint and Chattahoochee rivers to move goods into the interior of the colony.”

Newota paused for a moment, but he continued when Emistisiguo did not choose to respond. “It was about this time in our meeting that Thomas Brown joined us, and he was the one who now spoke. He said he realized that native leaders must strive to do what is best for their own people, always considering current circumstances and not looking back on past obligations or agreements. He said that the British offer our people reliable trade, no encroachment on our land, maximum enforcement of previous treaty terms, and a cooperative relationship, with mutual respect. The commander made it clear that there are many young men willing to join in Ranger operations, but it is important to him and them that the great chief not disapprove.