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Show So far as I can at present determine the Shoshones, or Snakes, number about 300 lodges, but they, as well, as the Utahs, Cum-um-bahs, Piedes, Pah utahs, Pah-Vants,and Diggers are so broken up into small bands, that it is impossible to tell with any degree of accuracy their numbers. As the settlements extends and the people make more explorations, as before remarked, Bands are formed who have never before seen White men. I received pr. last mail a request for estimates for the appropriation of forty five thousand dollars, in which letter it was also observed that a similar request had previously been made, but not compli«d with. I have only state that the desired estimate was made and forwarded to the Department, via of Independence, and Duplicates) -via of California in January 1st 1855. Immediately after the receipt of your last letter a Triplicate Copy was made out and forwarded by last mail, some of which I presume you have received. If you have not, and no movement has yet been made, in regards to that matter, it is rather late to make much out of it this season. If the funds could now be placed, at the disposal of some agent or persons authorized to hold the treaty with the Indians, and expend the appropriation it would be none too soon to effectually bring the business to a bearing another year. The goods wanted , as set forth in the estimate, would have to be brought from St. Louis and it is too late now, to make a successful |
