OCR Text |
Show I 24 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER. forded to acquaint the department, as fully as possible, with the con-dition of Indian affairs in that quarter. To his letters, which have been written from time to time while en ronte, you are respertfully referred, as not only affording important information, but as containing many valuable suggestions and recommendations with regard to the future 1 oli~:y of the government relative to those Indian tribes with whom he as had communication. On the important and deeply iltteresting subject of the civilization and improvement of our Ind~ans, I have but little to say ; less, donbt-less, than may he expected, considering the flattering accounts of the '$rapid improvement" and "rapid advancement in civilization" of the various frontier tribes generally, contained in the reports on the sub-ject of their condition and prospects. Judging from these in past yeears, most of the tribes that have been under our immediate supervi-slon, for considerable period$, should by this time have attained to an advanced state of civilization and improvement; but, unhappily, this is not the case with any; yet, that many have made an encouraging P degree of progress, in acquiring the elements of a rude civilization, can-not be denled. The circumstmce of their having abandoned the hun-ter state, with most of its wild habits and characteristics, and adopted the more peaceful and profitable pursuit of agriculture, is, of itself, a great and important step in the tedious process of their civilization. And, to the full extent of the resources available for that purpose, every favorable opportunity has been seized upon by the government, and by most of the Christian denominations throughout the hand, to introduce and multiply amongst them the means and instrumentalities of ednca-tion and moral and social elevation. Much has certainly been effected, hut tar more remains yet to be done, to secure and accomplish the full and complete regeneration of this singular hut interesting race within our borders; but the object I is a noble one, and in all respects deserving of the attention and en- ) ergies of the government and of a great Christian people. Very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, GEO. W. MANYPENNY, Comnaissimcr. Hon. R. MCCLELLAND, flecretary ofthe Interior. |