| OCR Text |
Show Mr. James Bush, Care Box 207, Durango, Colorado. My Friend: I have the letter of April 9 signed by Buckskin Charles and other Indians of the Southern Ute Jurisdiction wherein you ask for information in connection with the draft of Indians, the Investment of your funds in Liberty bonds, and what will become of your ranches if yon enter the military service. On the question of Indians entering the military service, I am anxious to see them serve their country. Of course those within the draft age can not enlist, but they can waive all claims for deferred classification and ask immediately Induction into the military service. Citizen Indians are subjeot to the draft, and non-citizen Indians are entitled to exemption therefrom, although they can waive such claims and be placed in the army. The service, training and experience of the Indians in the army will be of benefit both t the Government and to the individual, and I shall be glad to learn that a large number of your people are aiding the Government in this great war. I am anxious to see the Indians invest liberally in liberty bonds, and want them to do so as far as practicable. Such action assists the Government and should be considered as a privilege by the individual, and should be taken advantage of by the Indians as well as all others. Your ranch will lie idle during the time you are in the military service unless some relative can attend to same, or it is leased to others. I am pleased that you have made inquiry regarding these matters, and in that way shown an interest in the affairs of your Government and its needs. Your friend, (signed) Cato Sells Commissioner. Copy to Southern Ute. " " Perkins & Perkins. " " Durango, Colo. |
