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Show operation of that matter this season. The goods could probably be obtained here but at such an advance that it would be much better and far more economical to purchase them in St. Louis and freight them out. I cannot in justice to my feelings conclude my Report without expressing my sentiments in relation to the true policy to be exercised, towards the Indians to keep them friendly and slowly but surely lead them to adopt a more peaceful, industrious, useful, and civilized existence. I am also happy to learn that my views opinions, & policy upon this subject so intimately correspond with yours. To feed and clothe them is not only much cheaper; more humane, but far the most affectual and if rigidly adhered to must make its impression and eventually be successful. lit is with profound regret that I witness the preparations for waging war upon the Sious, they have generally, I might almost say always manifested the greatest friendship toward the Whites. In all of our intercourse with them (and it has been considerable within the last nine years), we have ever felt safe in their country and had the most convincing proofs of their friendly disposition toward the Whites. In all their depredations which have come to my knowledge, (with perhaps the single exception of the attack upon the mail, last September, they have been strongly incited thereto by some mismanagement, or wrong on the part of the whites. And so far as regards that particular instance, I have no doubt, but that those who were actually guilty of the act could be brought to justice, which would be much better than to visit wholesale destruction upon all alike, both the innocent, and guilty. Indeed I find that in all such cases, the guilty are the most |
