The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

20 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. [1753.
C HAPTER 1IlL1
The French make Encroachments on the Western Frontiers'of Virginia.
-- Claims of the French and English to the Western Territory considered. - Major Washington is sent by the Governor of Virginia to warn
the Intruders to retire. - Crosses the Allegany M ountains. -- Meets
Indians on the Ohio River, who accompany him to the French Garrison. Indian Speech. — Interviews with the French Commander. -
Perilous Adventures during his Journey, and in crossing the Allegany
River.-Returns to Williamsburg and reports to the Governor. —
His Journal published. -He is appointed to the Command of Troops
to repel the Invasion of the Frontiers. - Governor Dinwiddie.
THr time was now at hand, when the higher desti.ries of Washington were to unfold themselves. Intelliigence came from the frontiers, that the French had
crossed the Lakes from Canada in force, and were
about to establish posts and erect fortifications on the
waters of the Ohio. It was rumored, also, that, alarmed
for their safety, the friendly Indians were beginning to
waver in their fidelity; and the hostile tribes, encouraged by the presence and support of the French, exhibited symptoms of open war.'The crisis, in the
opinion of Governor Dinwiddie and his Council, called
_or an immediate inquiry. A messenger had already
been sent over the mountains, in the character of a
i.rader, with presents of powder, lead, and guns for
the Indians, instructed to ascertain their temper, penetrate their designs, and above all to trace out the
artifices and movements of the French.
This messenger, either intimidated or deceived by
the savages, executed his mission imperfectly. He
went as far as the Ohio River, met some of the friendly
sachems, delivered his presents, stayed a few days
with them, and then returned. He brought back various reports concerning the French, narrated to him