Surry County, April 30th, 1788.
Sir:
Yesterday I arrived home from the West Side of the Mountains, and on my way seen General Joseph Martin. He had not the least opportunity of writing to your Excellency & Requested me to let you know that the Indians have commenced Hostilities, and have killed several persons and taken some prisoners. He was on his way to the frontiers of Hawkins county, and had ordered a draught of the Militia to guard the Inhabitants & if possible to hinder that part of the county to brake up. Whilst I staid in Hawkins county, four men were killed & scalped.
The unhappy division which has for some time past subsisted between the people of the Old State & New State of Franklin (as they called themselves), seems at this time to be done away and a reconciliation taken place among the people which is Owing much to the conduct of General Martin. The General informed me he expected nothing but a troublesome bloody war with the Savages this Summer.
Most Obedt. Humble Servant,
(Endorsement):
Armstrong respecting the trouble on the frontier, &c.