ASCII text of "...Measures to be taken as would Bring about the Total Extirpation of those Indian Nations" (Amherst to Sir William Johnson, Superintendent of the Northern Indian Department, 9 July 1763); microfilm reel 34/38, item 244.

There is no Doubt but it is, & has been in the power of the Five Nations to Interrupt the Communication at any time, since the Troops were Detached from this Continent to the Havana, were they Disposed thereto; But there is as little Doubt but that such a step would, in the End, bring Certain Ruin on their own Heads; and therefore 'tis as must their own Interest as Ours to Remain Quiet & Peaceable; Indeed it is more so, for their Commencing Hostilities against Us & Persisting therein might be Attended with the Loss of our Inferior Posts & a few of our People at first, but must Inevitably Occasion such Measures to be taken as would Bring about the Total Extirpation of those Indian Nations.