Rocheblave to Carleton (?) (sent by Hamilton to Quebec, 6th August) (in French).Reports of brigandage of Willing, à soi disant Captain for Congress. Has carried off plunderfrom the British settlements on the lower Mississippi to the amount of $1,500,000. BritishArkansas destroyed and people carried off to Spanish settlement. Details of the acts ofbrigandage at Natchez, by Willing and by gangs who had joined him. Their odious acts haveroused resistance but their success is due to the general sympathy with them ofthe great part ofthe settlers. The Spaniards at New Orleans have supplied Willing with clothingfor three or fourthousand men, under cover of selling to merchants; although the real merchants can only get asmall quantity. Gunpowder also sold to the rebels. Barge loads of plunder sent off andprovisions from Fort Pitt to New Orleans. A messenger sent to warn Natchez.
Spaniards preparing to build forts on the Illinois, where detachments areto be sent.Vessels despatched to Vera Cruz for soldiers. The discouragement of the settlers; the conduct ofpeople of English birth less patriotic than that of the new subjects, who, however, have little hopeof defending themselves. Spaniards offering inducements for settlers to come into their territory,but unsuccessfully. Suggests the plan of exporting the crop to New Orleans, asa means ofstarving out the Spanish battalion. The Spanish crews have taken possession ofthe housesdeserted by the British settlers. Complaints sent to New Orleans. Urges his being relieved fromhis charge in the Illinois by some one of British origin, to do away with the jealousies whichexist, although these are groundless; the selfishness and greed of the settlers.
Troops urgently required to prevent the importation of munitions of war, &c., and thegathering of armed brigands; no time to be lost if the affection of the people is to be retained.The Indians well disposed but not to be trusted. His expenses since 24th May, 1777; begs for asettlement; will draw on Mr. Dunn.