, 1858-03-19

Total sl39, 100
"of these treaties the only one ratified was that of
Medicine creek, made in December, 1854.
THE breaking out Of the war, subsequent to ratf.
cation Of this treaty has been alleged the cause
the nontifcaton OF the others. Political and sec
tiona difficulties in Puget Sound, growing out Of the
course pursued by Governor Stevens both before and
during the war, and a disposition the part OF his
opponents 10 misrepresen his acts, have in my opn.
ion, contributed to produce much misunderstanding
relative to Indian Affairs in Washington.
From the general testimony Of dsintcrested parties
throughout the Territory, | am disposed TO believe
that Governor Stevens acted cOnscentousy and with
sincere regard for the public interests. The uuani-
nous opinion of all intelligent persons on the Sound,
not preldced by interest is In favor OF the ratfca-
ton Of these treaties The assertion that the war diff
hcutes resulted from the dissatisfaction Of the In
dams n consequence Of the treaties made with them
Is wholly without foundation. Some Few Indians, no
doubt were dissatisfied, butke ma9rity were anxious
that friendly relations should be established The true
causes Of the war existed long prior to the arrival Of
Governor Stevens in the Territory as shall be enabled
TO show In fture report that subject by testrno-
ny OF the most conclusive character That errors are
committed in the administration Of the affairs Of the
Territory is more than probabe but the condition Of
things there was anomalous. No parallel can be found
in any Territory Of the United States; no territorial
government was ever conducted under circumstances
so disadvantageous, or where difficulties fOrmda-
bic existed. Tribes OF Indians with whom no previ-
relations Of friendship had been established had
70 De DTOugnt WInu tue FesttiCtOns OF laws OF Wcn
they had never heard; white population, composed
Of adyenturers from all parts Of the Union had to be
restrained from acts Of retaliation where aggressons
were committed upon them; the jeaouses OF political
and military cliques had to be encountered at every
step and every species OF annoyance, prvation and
suffering endured under relentless opposition the bit
temess Of which only be accounted for by the in.
domtable energy and manness with which it was re-
sisted.
since the close of the war there can no longer ex-
st any good why treaties with these Indians
should not be ratified but if the provisions of those
made by Governor Stevens are deemed Objectionable
It is within the power Of the Executive to direct that
new treaties shall be made"
'For very impartial and intelligent account Of the
origin and Of the late Indian war in the Terri
tory Of Washington respectfully refer you to the re-
port Of Mr.. Gosnel of December ls 1856, to the SUI
perintendent. From long residence in the Territory
and active participation in its affairs as well as
thorough knowledge Of Indian character. Mr.. Gosne
is well qualified to give correct version of the diff
cuties which have resulted disasrousy to the Ter
rtory. His views In reference TO the policy adopted
towards the Indians. and the expedency Of carrying
into effect the treaties made with them, arc worthy Of
great consideration"