Department of War
Off: Ind: Affairs
20th Decr 1827
To Capt. 
Jasper Parrish,
U. S. Sub-Agent, &c.
Sir,
Complains have been preferred, by the British Minister, to the Department of State, and by that conduct of the St. Regis Indians, which is represented to have been disorderly to an extent which demands the interference of the Government. The outrages complained of, are said to have been committed in June last. The Secretary of War directs that you ascertain the nature and extent of the disturbance; and report the same to him. It may be proper, to enlighten the Indians, in regard to the line which divides the United States, from his Britanick Majesty's possessions in Canada; and require it of all the Indians, who may claim to be under the protection of the American Government, to enroll themselves. To such you will say, in the name of the President of the United States, that if they remain on the American side of the permanent guide, and live peaceably and conform to our Counsels, they will be protected; but if they shall cross the line, and commit violence, they will be left to be punished, by the forces of Canada.
Inform them distinctly, on the subject of their new relations, which the dividing line imposes; and assure them, that no protection will be afforded, by the American Government, if they cross it, and commit violence of any kind, either upon those Indians living on the British side, or the subjects of the King residing there.
I am, very respectfully, yr obt Servt.
Tho. L. McKenney

Department of War
Off: Ind: Affairs
20th Decr 1827
To Capt. 
Jasper Parrish,
U. S. Sub-Agent, &c.
Sir,
Complains have been preferred, by the British Minister, to the Department of State, and by that conduct of the St. Regis Indians, which is represented to have been disorderly to an extent which demands the interference of the Government. The outrages complained of, are said to have been committed in June last. The Secretary of War directs that you ascertain the nature and extent of the disturbance; and report the same to him. It may be proper, to enlighten the Indians, in regard to the line which divides the United States, from his Britanick Majesty's possessions in Canada; and require it of all the Indians, who may claim to be under the protection of the American Government, to enroll themselves. To such you will say, in the name of the President of the United States, that if they remain on the American side of the permanent guide, and live peaceably and conform to our Counsels, they will be protected; but if they shall cross the line, and commit violence, they will be left to be punished, by the forces of Canada.
Inform them distinctly, on the subject of their new relations, which the dividing line imposes; and assure them, that no protection will be afforded, by the American Government, if they cross it, and commit violence of any kind, either upon those Indians living on the British side, or the subjects of the King residing there.
I am, very respectfully, yr obt Servt.
Tho. L. McKenney