Page:King Philip's war, and Witchcraft in New England (IA kingphilipswarwi00hutc).pdf/16

 the court of Plymouth, wrote to the Massachusetts governor a note, to be communicated to the council, acquainting him that they had summoned Philip to appear on the 13th of September, and that if he did not do it, they had determined on the 20th to send out forces to reduce him to submission, unless better reason should seasonably appear to them, through the advice of Massachusetts, to prevent it. The suppression of Philip, the note said, was a common cause. and they should well accept of assistance: but it wag plainly intimated that if aid should be refused they would engage alone.

Philip happened to come to Boston with his counselors the same day the letter was received, and he represented his case so favorably to the governor and council, that, m their answer to Plymouth, they urged that government to refer the difference between Philip and them to commissioners from Massachusetts and Connecticut. Plymouth declined this proposal and insisted on Philip's appearance at the time proposed, but finally Massachusetts convinced them that there did not appear sufficient grounds for commencing hostilities. Plymouth consented to give Philip further time—until the 26th, promised him safe-conduct, and desired commissioners from Massachusetts and Connecticut to be present and to give advice. Whilst Philip was at Boston he engaged that he would not enter into a quarrel with Plymouth until he had first addressed himself to Massachusetts for advice and approbation.

The mediators met at Plymouth, and matters seemed to be accommodated, Philip signed such articles as it was thought reasonable he should do, and which were as follows:

"1st. We, Philip and my Council, and my subjects, do acknowledge