Cornplanter being the principal war-chief, appeared on this occasion in
their behalf.
He said,--"They had seen with regret the misconduct of the sachems; that
they thought also the action of Mr. Morris was too hasty; but still they
were willing the negotiations should be renewed; and hoped they would be
conducted with better temper on both sides."
Mr. Morris offered a few conciliatory remarks in reply; and Farmer's
Brother, on the part of the sachems, represented these proceedings of the
women and warriors, as in accordance with the customs of their nation.
The way being thus opened, the negotiations were readily carried forward
to a successful termination.
They consented to sell their lands for the sum proposed, which was one
hundred thousand dollars, leaving their reservations to be settled, as
they could agree.
The simplicity of the Indian character was apparent, in the eagerness with
which they desired to know about a _Bank:_ the president having
directed that the money they received for their lands, in case they were
sold, should be invested for their benefit in stock of the United States
Bank; in the name of the president, and his successors in office, as
trustees of the Indians; they earnestly inquired,--_what is a Bank_?
Several attempts were made at explanation, when finally they came to
understand, that the United States Bank, at Philadelphia, was a large
place where their money would be planted, and where it would grow, like
corn in the field.
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