In his answer the Governor admitted that the goods had not been given, but explained that this was because at the time the land had been ceded to Congress, and the authorities were waiting to see what Congress would do; and after the Cession Act was repealed the goods would have been given forthwith, had it not been for the upsetting of all legal authority west of the mountains, which brought matters to a standstill.
Moreover, the Governor in his turn made counter accusations, setting forth that the mountaineers had held unauthorized treaties with the Indians, and had trespassed on their lands, and even murdered them.

He closed by drawing a strong picture of the evils sure to be brought about by such lawless secession, and usurpation of authority.

He besought and commanded the revolted counties to return to their allegiance, and warned them that if they did not, and if peaceable measures proved of no avail, then the State of North Carolina would put down the rebellion by dint of arms.
Petition to Congress.
At the same time, in the early spring of 1785, the authorities of the new state sent a memorial to the Continental Congress.

[Footnote: State Dept.MSS., Papers Continental Congress, Memorials, etc., No.48.

State of Franklin, March 12, 1785.