February 19th, 1816

Editor's Note: This was written by Erastus Granger to Secretary of War, William Crawford, while Granger was actually in Washington, D.C. Here, Granger politely- but succintly- complains about not receiving money and/or supplies from the Federal government as payment for the loss of trees (pines) and livestock caused by the presence of American troops during the War of 1812. "Secondly", Granger writes of receiving no pay or reimbursement from the Federal government which would normally got to the Seneca Indians ("Indian volunteers"). This was a common complaint that arises in many of Granger's letters and is a reminder of how Granger had to keep the Senecas' situation before the Federal Government as much as possible. Finally, in exasperation, Granger reminds the Secretary of War just how small Granger's yearly salary is: $60.00 per year, and how little such a sum is able to pay for his expenses to the nation's capitol-and those of his Seneca companions who accompanied him.

Washington City
February 19, 1816

The enclosed papers are respectfully
Submitted for the consideration of the Honourable, the Secretary of War, with
The following brief remarks.

First an appraisement of injuries which I sustained by the troops of
The United States encamping on My land – destroying my pines – and for which I have not received any compensation.

Secondly – [?] [commission?] [as?] [?] [?] of Indian Volunteers, for which I have received no pay, excepting subsistence and forage for four months.

Third, an amount of expenses in traveling from Buffalo to this place and returning – being requested by the Indians to undertake the journey. I would mention that my salary, as Indian agent is only $60.00 per annum.

Erastus Granger