Dragging Canoe then demanded that Cameron and Stuart come forward and take hold of the war belt--"which we refused." Despite the offense their refusal gave--and it would seem a dangerous time to give such offense--Cameron delivered a "strong talk" for peace, warning the Cherokees of what must surely be the end of the rashness they contemplated.

Stuart informed the chief that if the Indians persisted in attacking the settlements with out waiting for answers to his letters, he would not remain with them any longer or bring them any more ammunition.

He went to his house and made ready to leave on the following day.

Early the next morning Dragging Canoe appeared at his door and told him that the Indians were now very angry about the letters he had written, which could only have put the settlers on their guard; and that if any white man attempted to leave the nation "they had determined to follow him but NOT TO BRING HIM BACK." Dragging Canoe had painted his face black to carry this message.

Thomas now returned with an answer from "the West Fincastle men," which was so unsatisfactory to the tribe that war ceremonies were immediately begun.