Lt. Edward Deas to C.A. Harris — April 4 1838
Tuscumbia Alabama
4 April 1838
To C A Harris Esqr
Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Sir,
I have the honour herewith to forward my accounts for disbursements in the Indian Department for the 1st Quarter of 1838. I left the Cherokee Agency on the 25 ultimo, to accompany a Party of Emigrants, in number near 300, as Disbursing Agent, and expect to be called upon by the Superintendent (Gen. l Smith) to take charge of the same as Conductor, when it reaches Waterloo 30 miles below this. After having done so, I shall report when opportunity offers, all matters of interest relative to the progress of the Party upon the route of Emigration. There was no objection to my going west with the present Party, as there was no probability of my presence being required in the Cherokee Country until my return, on account of the refugee Creeks, with whose emigration I will remain charged, agreeably to your instructions to myself.
Very respectfully
Yo. Mo. Ob. Servt.
Edw Deas
Lt. USA & Disbr Agent
Ind. Dept
Source: Lt. Edward Deas to C.A. Harris, April 4th 1838, National Archives Record Group 75, Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Letters Received, Cherokee Emigration, Roll 115, D204.