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OSL James Dill to Meigs

Sir [May 11, 1812

The late Indian alarm created and depredations committed on the front- iers of our Territory, is likely to prove distructive to the whole popu- lation of this and the neighbouring counties of the Territory unless some extraordinary exertions are made to prevent it and to quiet the fears of the people

It is not unknown to you sir the dread and horrour with w hich an Indian War is at all times received by any people under any circumstances - but when this dread and horrour is considerably increased by the peculiar- ly defenceless and exposed situation of those about to be attacked the effects are irresistable -- the people are flying from the back parts of this county in all directions, and we shall soon be completely a desert

I have made application directly to the president of the United States for a supply of arms and ammunition, as also to the governour of our Terr- itory, but the distance from hence to Vincennes or Washington City is so great that by the time assistance can reach us from either place, it may come too late.

Under the impression therefore that a present supply, (if even a small one) of arms and ammunition, would be of great service in quieting the fears of the people - and knowing that there are some persons better ac- quainted with the circumstances and situation of our country than you are, I am induced to apply to you Sir for one hundred Muskets & Dayonets, one hundred gun screws, one hundred wipers, one hundred cartridge boxes, & fifty pounds of powder on Loan, holding myself responsible for their safe return to you in good order w hen required. (accidents or loss by the enemy excepted)

I am very respectfully Your most obt Servt

James Dill
Colo. Commdt. 3rd Regt
Inda. Militia
Lawrenceburgh
Dearborn County I.T.

His Excellency
R. J. Meigs Esquire
Governour & Commander in
Chief of the State of Ohio