1. Wayne’s letter to Knox relayed a report that the Indians had met in council and were sending a flag, preparatory to the surrender of prisoners, but expressed his doubts about the report’s authenticity. Wayne also complained of the "very inferior quality" of the soldiers’ hats and shoes and recommended changes in the military uniform, including "long Coats," which would keep the soldiers "warm & comfortable during the Winter" and "aford patches or materials for repairing or mending them when reduced to Coatees" in the spring. Finally he stated that if the improved weather should continue, "I will take ground in front . . . which will probably be disputed by the Aborigines of America, but as they have Ceded that Ground by two solemn treaties to the United States I shall take and maintain possession in order to facilitate the transport and bring those Haughty savages to a speedy explanation." The letter would be delivered by Capt. Russell Bissell, who "has obtained permission to return to settle some private pecuniary concerns, but at the same time he is to recruit a full Company of men for which purpose he is directed to wait upon you & receive your orders" (Knopf, Wayne, 308-10).