Carlisle, Pa., July 18, 1899.

Rev. J. J. Methven,

Anadarko, Okla. Ty.

Dear Mr. Methven :-

Your letter with that of Andreas Martinez to hand. I have
just had a talk with our visiting agent who has seen Jonathon within a
few days at his farm home near Lambertville, New Jersey. He reports
him apparently well, and that it has been arranged that Jonathon shall
return to the school about the 1st of September so that he will be here
through the winter.

Mr. Martinez of course does not understand just what this outing
means. For instance, the district in which Jonathon is living is a
thoroughly settled country between Philadelphia and New York where the
farming, dairying, and trucking business is at its best, and he cannot
fail to learn a great deal in his daily experience which will be of
service to him when he returns home.

quite

On examining the records I find he has not been here two years,
and is therefore not entitled to return home by expiration of period
for some time yet. Please explain to his father just how the matter
stands.

Before leaving for the west Major Pratt said to me that he would
like very much to have an increase of pupils from your section of the
country for the next term and would probably send an agent later in
the summer for the purpose of bringing them in. One of Quannah's daugh
ters is at home and intends to return. Any others could come at the
same time. I understood you now have a railroad to Anadarko, so that
the old time difficulties of the journey are pretty well done away with
the new.

Hoping you are prospecting in your work, I am

Yours very truly,

Tailled Saturday 7/8.
Copied and printed Monday.

VOL. 38

NOT TO BE PUBLISHED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION OF
THE YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY, NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT.

Carlisle, Pa., July 10, 1899.

Miss Effie Spencer,
Stuart, Idaho.

Friend Effie :-

Your letter came just as Major Pratt was going west, and was handed over to Miss Luckenbach. She overlooked it for a few days. I now enclose you Major's check for $30.00 (Thirty Dollars) being the interest on the money, which you asked for.

Am pleased to know from your letter that the Nez Perces boys and girls are doing pretty well, and that you are disposed to keep your money, using the interest for your expenses. That is right, and you can always feel that you have something to rely upon while you have money on interest.

Things at the school are about as usual in vacation except that we are very busy building four new schoolrooms to the old building, to make room for the increase of pupils we expect to carry next year.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 10, 1899.

Mr. Laurie Tatum,

Springdale, Ia.

Dear Sir :-

I have your letter of the 5th inst. in regard to plates to be furnished No. C. Winston & Co. for your book. Your letter comes to hand in the absence of Major Pratt, but I understand his intentions and have word from Winston & Co. in regard to the matter. I find however, that with the method of printing they propose to use, these plates will not serve and they ask for photographs from which to make others they can use. The matter is being attended to, and the photographs will be sent as quickly as possible.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 10, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
C/o "The Roslyn",
Los Angeles, Cal.

Dear Major :-

Have received notification of funds asked for for the
first quarter 1900 being available in New York. According to your re-
quest to Mr. Beitzel I enclose herewith checks #63572, -3, and -4
covering in all $1000.00.

There has been no official matter of any importance other than
mentioned above, and no occurrence worthy of note. We have, however,
received three new pupils, one from Haskell, a band boy, and a boy and
girl from Tacoma. Mrs. Ewbanks arrived Saturday evening and is on du-
ty in the kitchen. She has the appearance of being able bodied and
capable. Another event of Sunday was the addition of a new member to
the Wheelock family, a boy; so there will undoubtedly be more music by
the band.

Work on the school building is being interfered with by rain, al-
though the first tier of joists is laid on the west end and Mr. Gardner
is putting up the wooden girder. I expect trouble and delay in getting
the steel work.

Mr. Thompson has completed his delivery of coal and we are daily
looking for the hard coal to begin to come in.

I have just had a call from a gentlemen whose card I forward you
herewith, who seems to have known you in Delphi. He is Carlisle to
try to sell the school board a set of apparatus for physical experiment.

VOL. 38

9

-2-

Major Pratt.

in their new school building. It is a very complete thing, and possibly would suit here. He will send us his catalog to examine.

Our supplies on home contracts are coming in in good shape. Received today the leather from Mr. Rife, which, while I have not seen it myself, Mr. Kensler pronounces tip-top.

Have had some correspondence with J. C. Winston & Co. who are publishing a book for Mr. Tatum, for which you promised to lend the plates. It seems the plates we have are not such as they can use, as I understand from Miss Burgess they want them in cylinder form. They ask for photographs from which they can make plates; these we will send as soon as possible.

Nothing of any importance in regard to western pupils has come either from San Carlos or elsewhere except from a Mr. Aubrey at the Blackfoot Agency, Browning, Montana, who writes about sending in a number.

Our wheat crop is all cut, but like that of our neighbors is not by any means a full one, although the quality seems good.

Authority on the drainage matter is not yet received. Will probably be along soon.

Mrs. Dorsett started out today on her country visiting. So far country matters are quiet except for the incoming of two or three boys apparently without reason more than that their services were not needed longer. Every year we have a little of this as soon as harvest is over.

A telegram came from Mrs. Cook yesterday in regard to the non-arrival of her box of exhibits, but as they started from here on the 1st of July they should have reached her before this time. The box was

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 11, 1899.

Mr. Ed. Bowen,

Onoville, New York.

Dear Sir :-

I have your letter of the 10th in regard to Nicholas' com-
ing home on account of the school having closed. I have to say that
this school never closes. It is true the schoolroom recitations have
closed, but it is simply a change of occupation. In the case of Nich-
olas, he is now well enough for duty and has been assigned to the sta-
ble as driver so that he might get the full advantage of outdoor life.

The matter of pupils from New York going home at this season of
the year is not one of cost, but of principle. We have a great many
students from the different New York reservations and if it were to be-
for them
come the custom to go home for the two summer months, our attendance
would be altogether a matter of uncertainty. I do not doubt that you
would live up to your promise; but the difficulty is in permitting one
and refusing others. Nicholas will get some pay for his work and is
well situated. Our surroundings here are particularly pleasant in the
summer.

I hope you will see the correctness of our position, and while
all is well as it is try not to unsettle Nicholas.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carliella, Pa., July 11, 1899.

Mr. M. Balenti,

Berlington, Okla. Ty.

Dear Sir :-

I have your letter of the 8th inst. in regard to George's
return home. The other day George came to me and we talked the matter
over quite fully. He was feeling a little badly that two boys who had
not been here so long as he had were being sent home this year and he
was not ; but when I told him that they were being expelled for bad
conduct and were not allowed to stay longer, he seemed to understand
the matter better. George himself is a good boy and is getting along
very well in his studies.

There seems to be a misunderstanding in regard to the term at
this school, which is five years. I know it is three years in most of
the western schools, but it is not so here. I see that George came in
'96 with Dr. Westfall late in the summer. He is therefore not entitled
to return home this year.

This is always an unsettled time for our pupils whose spirits
are not up when they see others making preparations to go to their
homes. It is perfectly natural they should feel so, but in a little
while they settle down all right as George has, and enjoy the pleasant
surroundings of summer at the school. I want to tell you that I crimp
ed as he is, George is becoming very skilful at wood carving, work
that ordinarily requires two good hands. He has produced some very

VOL. 38

17

Carlisle, Pa., July 12, 1899.

Horton G. Elm,
Caledonia, New York.

Dear Sir :-

Replying in the absence of Major Pratt to your letter of
July 6th, I have to say that your letter is not definite enough for me
to give you a complete answer. If however, you refer to a vacancy in
the teaching force, you would not be eligible until you had passed
the Civil Service examination, as appointments in the Indian Service
are now made through that channel.

If you have anything else in mind, you might write again a lit-
tle more explicitly.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

18

Carlisle, Pa., July 13, 1899.

Dr. Carlos Montezuma,
100 State St.,
Chicago, Ill.

Dear Doctor :-

I have your letter of the 9th in regard to the girls and enclose you herewith a check for $2.25, being your expense on their account. I am very glad they fell into your hands, although I do not understand the delay as the Railway Guide states that that train leaves Chicago daily, as can be seen on Page 616 of the Appleton Guide. I did not like to start them on Friday, but was delayed one day by non-arrival of their tickets. I felt sure they would go through without delay before I started them. However, "All's well that ends well", and they had the benefit of seeing Chicago to some extent.

We are very busy here as usual. You no doubt heard of our small-pox scare in the spring. As a consequence the hospital is getting a thorough renovation inside and out; in fact, it will look like new. Dr. Diven and Miss Barr did their duty nobly in the emergency. The latter is now away on her vacation in Nova Scotia. Major is in California at the Teachers' Convention and the usual stay-at-homes here.

Again thanking you for your care of the girls, I am

Dictated(P)

VOL. 38

TELEGRAMS.

July 12, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
Hotel "Roslyn",
Los Angeles, Cal.

First quarter funds received. Checks mailed 10th. Ninety-nine credit
received by telegraph today. Thirty-one hundred pays all tickets;
surplus Eight hundred. Wire instructions as to balance.

Standing.

Govt. rate.
Night.

July 12, 1899.

Oscar J. Howard,
Minot, N. Dak.

Byron away from the school. Will notify he cannot come.

Pratt, Major.

Govt. rate.
Night message, charged.

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 13, 1899.

Mrs. Maggie Eberts,
Detroit, Minn.

Dear Madam :-

Your daughter was up to see me this morning in regard to a
letter she had from you about going home for the vacation. I have to
say that this school has no vacation. There is a period during July
and August when classes are not in session, but the other departments
of the school operate as usual. There are at present over 250 pupils
here; the others are away spending the summer at different places in
families within easy reach of the school. Those girls who remain here
work half of each day, taking their rest and pleasure the other half
always under proper supervision.

It would be impracticable in a school of this kind to recognize
the customary vacation, as pupils come from so long a distance and at
Government expense. Your daughter has been very sensible about it, as
she understands the conditions fully, and has just shown me her letter
to you. She is in good health and has improved wonderfully.

In the future in such matters the right course would be for you
to correspond with the superintendent before attempting to make any
arrangements with your daughter.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

22

Carlisle, Pa., July 13, 1899.

Chief Quannah Parker,

Fort Sill, Okla. Ty.

Dear Quannah :-

I was away from the school at the time of your last visit and missed seeing you. I find that Laura went home with you for a summer visit, to come back in the fall.

We are needing about 150 new students this fall to make out our whole number of 1000. Cannot you and Laura make up a good party of Comanche boys and girls to come when she does in the fall? Major is away just now on the Pacific Coast, but talked some before he left of my coming out to your section after his return; but we have so much work that it is very doubtful whether I can come or not. This need not make any difference because you know very well the sort of boys and girls that are wanted to make good scholars. Think the matter over and get Laura to write me what the prospect is for a party.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle Pa., July 13, 1899.

J. H. Seger,
Supt. Indian School,
Colony, Okla. Ty.

Dear Mr. Seger :-

I have your recent letter to hand and thank you for the
items of news and interest it contained, but write you now especially
in regard to one point, viz., the students you think are disposed to
go to a nonreservation school. We have word from the Indian Office
that there are several at the Cantonment school who may possibly come
and your letter contained a hint that there may be some in your dis-
trict. If this is the case we will arrange for their coming; or pos-
sibly someone may be sent to look over your district during the month
of August. Before going to the Pacific Coast Major Pratt talked as
though he would like me to make such a trip, but I am doubtful about
being able to do it, though I would like to open the way for those who
wish to come and can fill our requirements of health, etc. If you
think it would be worth while for an agent from Carlisle to make a tour
of your section, I would be glad to hear from you.

Was pleased to find from your letter that you are getting the ac-
commodations needed to conduct your school in good shape. We are doing
some building here this year, adding three large schoolrooms, six rec-
itation rooms and a large sloyd room, providing the accommodations we
need to carry the full 1000 pupils. We much prefer those who are ad-

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

-2- Mr. J. H. Seger.

advanced to the proper grade and may be able to complete the course in
five years or sooner. Amelia Clark is now a member of the graduating
class and should receive her diploma next March. She has developed
very well and seems to know her own mind about things. Although in
the past she has had some poor health to struggle against, I think she
is now stronger physically than ever before.

Would be pleased to hear from you in regard to the prospect of
pupils at your convenience.

Dictated (P)

P. S. - Would much prefer that you bring in the party yourself.

VOL. 38

NOTE

letter to R. V. Griffin was returned July 15th. The note below
was written at the bottom of the letter and returned immediately.

Major 1st Cavalry, Supt.

Dictated (R)

July 15, 1899.

The above letter was mailed as dated to you at Republic, Wash. and
came back this morning. In the meantime your daughter Ida who is now
in the country wrote me about her sister, and I told her what to say
to you. I enclose blanks for you to fill out. There may be other
children coming from the Pacific Coast in a few weeks, and when we
know that her health is good, arrangements can be made for her to come
with others, or if necessary we can arrange so it will be entirely
safe for her to come alone.

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 17, 1899.

Mrs. Lucy Fenassa,
Kewadin, Mich.

Dear Madam :-

I have your letter of the 11th inst. about Jonas Fenassa returning home. On looking up the matter I find that he came in Aug. 1896 and is therefore not entitled to go home this year. I have had a talk with him about your affairs, and he has decided to send you $10.00 from his money here which will enable you to hire someone to do the necessary work for a while. This looks to me a much more profitable thing for him to do than to spend more than that much in getting home.

It would not do at all for us to attempt to comply with requests that may come on account of different members of the family being sick, as anyone can understand that in a school of nearly a thousand pupils, under these conditions it would be "come and go" all the time and there would be no school to speak of.

I think Jonas has done the best he is able to do.

Dictated (F)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 17, 1899.

Ulysses L. Ferris,
"Beacon by the Sea",
Point Pleasant, New Jersey.

Friend Ulysses :-

I have your letter of the 14th making request for a pair of
uniform pants. It seems a little early to make the call, as I think
you were well outfitted when you went out; but as you cannot get them
anywhere else, I will have a pair sent you.

Am pleased to know you are getting on all right and hope there
will be no complaints in regard to the conduct of any boys this year.
Last year there were some complaints.

In regard to the latter part of your letter, I will keep your secret and hope your plan will materialize. With kind regards to all the boys,

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

34

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 17, 1899.

Miss Alice C. Fletcher,
C/o Mrs. William Bell,
Box 1086,
Pittsburg, Pa.

Dear Miss Fletcher :-

I have your letter of the 13th written in Washington in
regard to Vincent Nahtailsh, the young Apache you speak of and the
prospect of Dartmouth College.

I am sorry, to say of Vincent that his companionship with Antonio
seems to have been the reverse of beneficial. We do not know much of
him, but do know that the brave face he has tried to put on his situa-
tion in letters here, is not justified by the facts.

In regard to Dartmouth, it is quite right there should be some
Indians there as I believe the college was started in the first place
for their special benefit, but do not know of anyone who would just
now be eligible on account of their scholarship, as it takes at least
two years of preparatory work after graduation here before they can en-
ter at Dickinson, and I suppose it would be the same at Dartmouth. We
have several boys who are taking this course at Dickinson and would be
able before a great while to enter Dartmouth. The letter you enclose
from the Dean indicates that room and tuition would be furnished. This
would leave the board unprovided for, but would still give a boy a
good chance. There is one now going through Princeton almost entirely
on his own resources and is keeping up very well with his classes.

I will hold this matter under advisement and talk it over with
Prof. Bakeless who will shortly be here, and see if it is best to make

VOL. 38

36

Carlisle, Pa., July 17, 1899.

Miss Foss Wilson,
Mechanicsburg, Pa.

Dear Madam :-

Your letter of the 15th to Major Pratt in regard to the po-
sition of Secretary comes to hand in his absence. The position is not
filled, although he is expecting a nominee from the Civil Service Com-
mission at any time. I would not say there is absolutely no chance
for you, but it is very small. If, however, you will write a letter
giving more particulars of yourself and your experience I will take
pleasure in forwarding it to Major Pratt, so he may be fully informed
of your application.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 17, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
"The Roslyn",
Los Angeles, Cal.

Dear Major :-

The press of office work has made me put off writing you for
several days past, but I know you heard from Miss Ely and others, and
I sent you a telegram covering the only matter of any importance, viz.,
the ability to use our funds. This work is now about accomplished, one
voucher still being open on which to close out the balance. It seems
as though the surplus must have come about from the fact of credits
to us for sales during the Third Quarter not being included in the bal-
ance given you at the end of April, on which our Fourth Quarter requis-
ition was based, but were subsequently so placed and therefore not in-
cluded in the funds transmitted until the final action of Mr. Slater.
It takes almost every unused authority we have had during the year ex-
cept the flag pole. Looking that up, I find that now it will take
$300 to do what we wanted to do, and as other authorities were avail-
able, I dropped the idea of the flag pole.

Building matters are at a stand-still for material, which, al-
though according to promise should be here, is not. This morning we
received the tin from Philadelphia, but no contract supplies from the
Indian Department are here as yet.

Nothing at all tangible comes to hand about new students. I hope
you will be able to accomplish something on this line while at the
Convention.

VOL. 38

38

-2- Major Pratt.

The hard coal is now coming along in something like regular de-
livery. It appears to be of good quality and in good condition.

Saturday morning I asked Dr. Diven to go with Mr. Weber and try
to lay off a line for the new sewer on what they considered the best
route. Dr. Diven came back and reported they could not fix a route,
and thought it would be better for an engineer to run the line and give
the levels. Now that some of the boys who have been working on the
lower farm and in the near-by country are in and the boys from North-
field have returned, large boys are more numerous than for many years
at this season, and there is available labor for anything necessary to
be done. I am running as strong a force as practicable at Kalsomining
and painting, and good progress is being made.

A letter from Mrs. Etnier states that a prominent lady of Porto
Rico is now at Washington and expects to come to Carlisle before re-
turning to Porto Rico. She has a project for starting a school for the
many uncared for orphans in Ponce and San Juan and is trying to enlist
the Government in her project. Mrs. Etnier speaks very highly of her
as being a lady of wealth and influence, who has been very kind to her
and is deserving well of Americans.

Kitchen affairs seem to be running very smoothly. Mrs. Ewbanks
is capable and getting hold of her work very nicely.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

39

Carlisle, Pa., July 17, 1899.

Thomas P. Ullom,
80 Institute Place,
Chicago, Ill.

Dear Sir :-

Replying to your letter of July 10th, will send you a copy of our two publications, "The Indian Helper" and "The Red Man", the former a weekly sheet, the latter being issued irregularly, twelve numbers a year. Enclose also several addresses and reports from which you will be able to get some information. As to methods to be pursued in Christianizing the Indian, you might consult Dr. Carlos Montezuma, an Apache in Indian living Chicago and practicing medicine. He is greatly interested in this work and I have no doubt you can get many valuable suggestions from him. Your experience as Supt. of an Indian School has doubtless given you some insight into Indian character, which in the main does not differ greatly from that of any semi or uncivilized people.

There are from seventy to eighty different tribes in the United States, some of them subdivided into bands and smaller tribes, the Sioux being the most numerous. It would be hard to name the smallest tribe, as some have diminished to less than a dozen members. In our school there are about sixty tribes represented. As to intelligence, the members of a single tribe differ so much in this respect, that no positive statement can be made; but the Indians coming from Alaska as a whole seem among the very brightest. We expect to enroll 1000 next year. Just now the number is smaller than in the winter by reason

VOL. 38

-2- Mr. Ullom.

of the expiration of time of fifty or more. These will be replaced
by fall.

Visitors are always welcome, and a much more satisfactory idea
of our aims and progress can be obtained through a visit than by cor-
respondence.

Hoping you may receive the information you desire from Dr. Mon-
tezuma at 100 State St., Chicago, and thanking you for your kind wishe-
es, I am

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

William White, Jr.,
Columbus, Mont.

Dear Sir :-

I have your letter of July 18th relative to entering this
school. Since writing to you in October last for full particulars
in regard to yourself, I know no more of your health, character, pro-
portion of Indian blood, etc. than before. When I have the necessary
information on these points I can decide whether you are entitled
to enter. There are several others at the Crow Agency who expect to
come to Carlisle sometime in August, and if you fill the conditions
you can join the party. You understand of course that the Agent should
have full knowledge of your coming and give his consent.

P.

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Mr. Juan A. Jacques,
Largo,
San Juan Co., N. Mex.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of July 13th in regard to your daughter Delfina has been received. In reply I am pleased to be able to say that Delfina is in good health and is doing very well, but for some reason she writes letters that cause you to think differently. She has had a little trouble with her eyes, but it was found that all she needed was a pair of glasses to suit her eyes. These she now has and the trouble is over. It is not necessary to have anything done to her eyes except to use these glasses.

A letter to hand in regard to her dated the 1st of July says that she is in perfect health and very happy. We have a report every month and in a few days our visiting agent will see her and make a special report. You need not be anxious about her for any reason at present.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Postmaster,

Tahlequah, Ind. Ty.

Sir :-

which was
Enclosed herewith I send you a copy of an article published
in the New York Journal last Sunday and has since been copied in oth-
er papers, presenting a highly sensational story of crime such as
newspapers love to print about Indians when they get a chance, and
as usual the Carlisle School is coupled with the subject.

If you can take the time I would be glad to know from you what
basis there is on which to build this story. So far as the connection
of Carlisle pupils with the matter is concerned, if the names given are
correct there is no connection whatever. We have not had any Cherokee
girls from Indian Territory as they are not eligible here.

Please let me know in regard to this, and oblige,

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Chief Geo. D. Rickard,

Pekin, N. Y.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of the 15th duly to hand. In regard to Edgar's
coming home I have this to say and then you will fully understand :
You know he has had a very serious illness through which he has come
very nicely; but it has left his face somewhat marked and has made it
necessary to wait a while in order that the marks might be somewhat worn
off before he started on a journey by train. It has always been the in
tention that he should visit home. I talked with the Doctor yesterday
and he said he might go some time next week. Edgar's general health
is good and his detention has not been on account of any present sick-
ness, but only for the reason before stated.

It is pleasant to hear your words of commendation in regard to
the school. We get so many letters from parents which show they have
not much judgment as to how school matters should be handled to keep
up discipline and do the work a school should do.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Mrs. Nancy Halftown,
Irving, N. Y.

Dear Madam :-

Your letter in regard to your daughter Frances has been re-
solved. In regard to pupils of this school "working out," as you call
it, I must tell you that this is a fixed part of the school course,
and we consider it very beneficial to the pupils in many ways : first,
We select the families: Second, The girls get instruction in housework
and the general way of living in a well conducted white family. In
the winter they attend a good district school and generally learn to
make an independent support for themselves, which, if they can do for
a while as pupils here, they can afterwards do for themselves anywhere.

Your daughter has been out one winter and is due to return to the
school in September. It is not as you seem to suppose, a question of
finding work and just doing so much work with no instruction. I am
sure if you could see the results of this system as we can, instead of
placing yourself in opposition to it you would commend it. The last
monthly report shows that Frances was in good health and has saved
quite a little sum of money while out, of which she will have the use
and benefit when back at the school which will be before many weeks.

Diated (P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Anna S. Blackburn,
Friends' Boarding School,
Tunisia, N. Y.

Dear Madam 1-

Replying to your letter of the 17th inst. in regard to the
Course of Study at this school, I have to say that the supply of the
same has been exhausted, but a new edition is in print and will prob-
ably be out in a month or six weeks, and I will see that a copy is sent
you.

I think it would be a good plan on your part to follow this as
nearly as practicable, for the reason that we occasionally receive pu-
pile from your school, who could then easily find their proper place
in our classes by means of a simple statement from you.

Dictated (P)

BLURRED TEXT

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Rev. F. Thompson,

Fort Covington, N. Y.

Dear Sir :-

Replying to your letter of the 17th in regard to the admission of a St. Regis boy, I have to say that we are expecting to receive the a party from St. Regis Reservation in time for the opening of the school term in September, as there are a number of applications from there.

In order to make selections from those who have applied, and to escort the pupils to Carlisle, it is intended that one of our teachers, Miss Carter whose home is in New England, shall visit you towards the end of August and act on all applications that may come before her.

Will use your letter as a memorandum in this case and ask her to advise you of the time she will be there.

Pupils are given the opportunity of attending services at the church they prefer, and ministers from town are invited to call and look after the children who attend their church, several of them having weekly classes which all their members may attend.

Dictated (F)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

Miss Nellie Robertson,

Sisseton Agency, S. Dak.

Dear Miss Robertson :--

I have your letter of the 14th inst. in regard to pupils
and note what you say about your cousin. She is, of course, really too
young, but inasmuch as it is a personal favor to yourself that you ask
I will have to say "Yes", with the distinct understanding that this ex-
ception has no bearing whatever on other cases, and is simply granted
on your own account.

Am pleased to know that Mr. Johnson has shown himself friendly
to you, and hope you may be successful in organizing a party which
outside of the one exception will meet the requirements given you.
Whenever you are ready, let me know how many tickets you will need and
allow time for the arrangement to work, which will be about a week.
Also, in receipting for tickets, be careful that you pay only half
fare for your cousin.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 19, 1899.

N. W. Eggleston,
Chamberlain, S. Dakota.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of the 15th inst. containing statement of un-
paid account against Louis St.Cyr has been received. St. Cyr is now
earning a little money during the summer, and so far as possible he
will be required to use it in squaring up his unpaid bills at Chamber-
lain, of which yours is not the only one. He will not return to the
school until sometime in September when we can tell the balance avail-
able, as he has certain traveling expenses to pay out of his earnings.

Dictated (P)

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50

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 20, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
C/o Van Nuy's Annex,
Los Angeles, Cal.

Dear Major:-

Your telegram announcing change of location received yesterday. Nothing of importance has transpired since my former letter to you except that Christine passed quietly away last night about midnight. We have also in from the country a Cheyenne boy, Percy White - Bear, who is in a very critical condition. The attack commenced with pneumonia is now apparently quick consumption.

Mrs. Kemp has submitted to an operation at the Todd Hospital, and the doctors are hopeful but do not seem to be by any means sure of the outcome.

Nancy Seneca is still here, as she claims by your invitation, and proposes an indefinite stay. At first she and her friend were a little fresh, but of late have been doing better and last night were useful in helping the inexperience of Miss Newcomer, who however has done very well in her place at the hospital.

Received this morning the first invoice of the new year's supply being sugar from Chicago. Hemlock joists needed for the building were delivered yesterday, but notwithstanding promises, have not yet received the beams and frames. The masons are therefore laid off for the week. Will not call on them until material is in sight. Nothing has yet reached us in regard to the sewerage; so I wrote yesterday to the

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VOL. 38

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Major Pratt.

Commissioner, calling attention to your letter and asking for action
so that we might use the vacation period and the very pleasant weather
we are now having. The number of pupils here, especially large boys, is
so much in excess of what is usual that we find it a little difficult
to keep all profitably employed. I have therefore called on the Trol-
lay Company to try to get them to furnish us a motor to start the
stone work again. Work could be done on the track of the athletic
field if I knew we would be doing it right. The last information I
had from Mr. Thompson was that you proposed sending for some expert
who would supervise a portion of the track, so the rest could be made
like it. I am not therefore in a position to do anything in that line.
Mr. Thompson also stated that it was your order that the boys should
not make any use of the athletic field this season. I did not have
any such word from you, but am acting on the information, although it
would be very pleasant to have the use of it as this way everything
is crowded on the little lot back of the school-house.

The tin from Taylors' is received and is being put together in
the shop.

I forward you a letter received this morning from Mr. Davis,
which gives an insight into Indian politics a little, and as I see he
wants a word from you as quickly as possible, I enclose it.

You will also find copy of a song written by Mrs. Eastman which
Miss Senseney proposes to set to music and make use of in the future.
Please keep us informed of your movements and address. I con-
sider we are generally in good shape here; a little late with the pa-
per work of course, but that is now going forward and will be completed
as rapidly as possible.

very truly yours,

Asst. Supt. in charge.

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 20, 1899.

Mrs. Julia Funk,
Ada, Minn.

Dear Madam :-

Rea returned last week from his stay in the mountains looking very hearty and well, and bringing Mrs. Howe's bill for eight weeks' board at $1.50 per week, making $12.00, of which she asks prompt settlement. I understand we are to look to you for this amount, according to your arrangement with Mrs. Given. Mrs. Given is now absent on her vacation not to return for some weeks. I therefore ask you to please send the amount to me here in order that Mrs. Howe's claim may be settled. Do not send direct to Mrs. Howe.

Dictated (P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 21, 1899.

Norton G. Elm,
Caledonia,
Livingston Co., New York.

Dear Sir :-

I have your letter of the 19th from which I understand that
you wish to be admitted here as a student. The conditions for this are
that you are an Indian, that you come within the limits of 14 and 20
years of age, are in good health and willing to enter for a five year
period unless you should graduate sooner. If you send me a certifi-
cate as to your health and character from some responsible person, I
will at once give you a definite answer to your request.

Dictated (P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 21, 1899.

Mrs. Nancy Dixon,
Pinconning, Mich.

Dear Madam :-

Your letter of July 19th in regard to Ernest's coming home
this summer, like your previous letter, came to hand in Major Pratt's
absence. When you wrote to me I did not answer for the reason that
the letter of June 29th was mine and answered your question in the only
I could answer it. Major Pratt is away in California. Before going
he left me a list he had carefully made up of the students to go home
this summer. Ernest's name was not among them, as he did not consider
his full time for the second five years had been completed, having
entered sometime in the fall of the year. Being only temporarily in
charge of the school, I am not expected to change any arrangement he
has decided upon. I cannot therefore do more than promise to bring
your letter to Major Pratt's notice on his return about the middle of
August, when the matter will again have his consideration.

I must say, however, that while in the main Ernest has been a
satisfactory boy in conduct, just this summer there has been a little
falling out between him and the Major, which I am afraid will not make
the Major feel disposed to grant him any particular favors.

I understand very well your feeling in the matter and regret
that I am not at liberty to comply with your request at once. You will
hear again later.

(P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 21, 1899.

Mrs. Manda Antell,
Kimberly,
Aitkin Co., Minn.

Dear Madam :-

Your letter in regard to Charles coming home has been re-
ceived, but on looking up the records I find he only entered the school
in September, '97, and is therefore not entitled to return home.

Students who enter here come for a five year period. Of course
during that time it is more than probable there will be sickness and
possibly death in the home circle; but the Government could not under-
take to give Indians this education if it were expected they should be
allowed to go home whenever sickness occurs in the family. Such a
course would be unreasonable, although it is very natural to feel as
you do in regard to Charles; but as he is not yet entitled to home
transportation, your request cannot be complied with at this time,

Dictated(P)

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Curlisie, Pa., July 21, 1899.

Clarence White Thunder,
Rosebud Agency, S. Dak.

Dear Friend :-

Your letter of July 13th to Major Pratt finds him away from
home on the Pacific Coast. I will therefore answer for him and say
that we are pleased to hear from you and to know that you are doing
well. In regard to the boys and girls who wish to come from your dis-
trict, I would be pleased to have you send me their names and ages so
that I may know a little better what to say, because it will be nec-
essary to have them properly transferred to this school through the
Agent and I should like to know just who they are before taking up the
matter with him. Write me as to this as soon as you can. We should
be very glad indeed to increase the number of Rosebud Sioux at this
school, which is at present very low - not at all as it was in the
old times.

Things here are going on much as usual. This year we are build-
ing an addition to each end of the school house and expect to be able
to take care of 1000 pupils next winter. Nearly all the teachers are
away on their vacations. The boys who are here are busy as usual in
kalsomining, painting, and making the general repairs necessary at this
season.

Dictated (P)

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Carlisle, Pa., July 21, 1899.

Miss Carrie L. Miller,
Williamson School,
Delaware Co., Pa.

Dear Madam :-

I have your letter of the 19th in regard to your probable
duties at this school, and have to say they will be almost entirely
correspondence work, probably more as Major Pratt's secretary although
there will be a certain amount of copying and general official corres-
pondence included, in case that is the position he has in mind for you
There is another position somewhat similar in character, but in which
a larger amount of statistical and record work is to be done.

Our working hours are from eight o'clock in the morning to
about five in the evening, but of course all are expected to respond
to duty's calls at whatever hour they may occur.

In regard to compensation, it seems a little strange there has
been no mention of this before between yourself and Major. It has bee
at the rate of $600 per year with the use of a furnished room. Board
at personal expense at the Teachers' Club is at the rate of $2.50 per
week for club members. We are pleasantly situated one mile from town
with communicating trolley line.

There is no printed material that would give any idea of your
duties, but I send you by this mail the Annual Reports for '97 and
'98 containing illustrations which show something of the general work
of the school, Mr. Shrigley is quite familiar with the place and
the general workings of the school as is also Captain Crawford.

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Carlisle, Pa., July 32, 1899.

Little Snake,
Runtsville P. O.,
Kingfisher Co.,
Okla.

My friend :-

The other day I wrote to Major Woodson, telling him of the
serious illness of your son Percy, who is home at school. Yesterday
I learned from Percy the fact that you live quite a long distance from
the agency, so write to me at your own postoffice.

I am sorry to tell you that Percy has pneumonia and is not any
better today. The doctor is looking after him as carefully as possible and he is well taken care of in every way, but I am afraid he will not recover as his lungs are in a very bad condition. This has come on as quickly and unexpectedly that there was no chance to tell you to be fore he became so ill as to make any idea of reaching home and seeing you again out of the question.

We are very sorry this is so, but you know how rapidly this disease works and how fatal it is among the Indians everywhere.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 22, 1899.

Mr. John Bruce,

Cornwall Is., Ont.

Dear Sir :-

I have yours of July 17th expressing your wish to visit this
school by coming on with the party from your district. I cannot now
give you a definite answer as to this, as it will depend upon the cir-
cumstances. We should be very glad to have you come to see us, and
I will talk the matter over with Miss Carter, the lady who will visit
you. Will leave it in this way : if she has a considerable party and
feels the need of your services in helping to bring them in, it can be
so arranged, but if the number should be small, the extra expense would
not be justified and you would have to wait for some other opportunity.
If you do not come in this summer, about Christmas or at Commencement
would be a good time for a visit, and we can at almost any time help
a little in the matter of railroad rates. We are very desirous that
parents and people of influence among the Indians should become thor-
oughly acquainted with the school, and hope that now or later your
wish may be realized.

Dictated(F)

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Carli news, Pa., July 22, 1909.

Mike Agnesi L. Baton,
Bay View, Mich.

Dear Mike Baten :-

Your letter to Major Pratt finds him away from home for some weeks. I therefore ask you that we have had a saloon department at this school for the last four years and have a competent instructor who, so far as we know, will remain another year.

As the Indian Department is paying some attention to this kind of instruction now, I would advise you to write directly to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D.C., stating your qualifications and wishes, you will thus get the best information that can be furnished so as to employ you in the Indian Service as concerned.

Diatates (f)

VOL. 38

Carllsle, Pa., July 24, 1899.

David Tyndall,
Omaha Agency, Neb.

Friend David :-

We have the trunk back that was sent to Bancroft by mis-
take. It was Emma Morrel's and should have gone to Davenport, Wash.
We suppose therefore that your trunk must have gone there. I have not
yet received the duplicate check from you. Send it to me in the en-
velope enclosed herewith at once, and we will get the matter made right
as soon as possible.

P. S. If you have given the check to the agent at Bancroft, all right

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 24, 1899.

Robert McFarland,
Weitchpec, Cal.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of July 2nd came duly to hand and I have al-
lowed it to remain without answer until all the facts in the case were
available.

First, I find from the lady with whom Rose is now living that
she has a habit of picking her teeth with a pin. This in itself is of
course injurious. She further says that Rose does have some trouble
with her teeth which, while they look good and should be preserved, do
need some attention; but Rose is not contented with the idea of having
them filled, but says she will have them out and buy some more. This
Mrs. Conley opposes as not being a judicious measure. She further
says that Rose shows a rather peculiar disposition and does not seem
disposed to accept advice except just so far as it suits her own no-
tions, and that Rose claims she has the promise of money from you and
is looking daily for the letter.

I find that Rose has $10.33 here in the bank and nearly as much
more coming to her as country pay. The cost of composition fillings
would not exceed one dollar each, but gold fillings run from $1.50 to
$4.00 each according to the size of the cavity. Rose probably has six
teeth that need attention. These statements give you her case. If
you wish her to have the gold filling, it may require more money than
she had, but composition filling will not.

VOL. 38

68

-2- Mr. McFarland.

I suggest that the matter be left till she comes back here in
the fall and an examination be made by our doctor and action taken ac-
cordingly, as we do with all our pupils whose teeth need attention.
It would be well enough if you care to do so to say you will send her
a little money for this purpose when she is back at Carlisle and can
have the work done here.

Dictated(P)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 24, 1899.

Emma Morrel,
C/o Mr. McKay,
Fruitland,
Stevens Co., Wash.

Dear Emma :-

I find that somehow a mistake has been made in sending your
baggage. Your trunk went to Bancroft, Neb to David Tyndall; so I sup-
pose you have his trunk. If so, we want it sent back to Gettysburg
Junction, and will send on your own trunk.

If you have the trunk at home, send it back to the agent at Dav-
onport to be sent back here. If you did not take the trunk and have
the check, send it back to me in the envelope I send you and I will
write to the R.R. agent and when that trunk comes back, will send you
yours.

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 25, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
C/O U.S. Ind. Agt.,
Klamath Agency, Ore.

Dear Sir :-

I have your message from Los Angeles dated the 24th, and
write this to as to meet you at Klamath.

have to hand this morning a letter from Miss Miller stating that
she will report for duty some time the second week in August. Mean-
while our office work is being carried along all right. Miss Lucken-
bach has asked for leave of absence beginning early in August, and
as her report is about completed she can be spared better than then
later.

Nothing of importance has come from the Department except the
usual routine of approvals, etc., all authorities having been granted
except the drainage matter, in regard to which nothing has yet been
received. Notice was received this morning that no freight con-
tract has been awarded this year and that freighting would be done as
open market business by the railroads, you receipting to the railroad
tompanies direct for supplies. As yet no supplies have been delivered.
I cannot report such progress in building. A series of contingencies
have prevented our getting the frames until now. The foreman who came
down to take the measurements was taken ill and was unable to attend to
business. They have therefore sent another man to repeat the work, and
we are to have them not later than tomorrow or next day.

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Major Pratt.

The beams which were promised more than a week ago did not come and a telegram brought the response that they would be shipped early this week, which may be so or may not. Men who have iron to sell seem to be having their own way. However, Mr. Gardner feels sure they will be here in a few days, and when once the material is assembled the work will go on rapidly. Sheaffer is a pusher.

Coal is coming in, but slowly and irregularly. Mr. Stoner claims they cannot do better owing to the very heavy demands on the mines. Our kalsominers and painters are making good headway and things will be in good shape before school begins.

James Wheelock left last night for Oneida, understanding fully his relations towards Mr. Pierce. I also wrote to Mr. Pierce just how the matter stood and that James was not in any way to encroach upon his prospects. A letter from Miss Robertson intimates that probably there will be some results from her trip, but gives nothing definite. Referring to Miss Beale, the girl you spoke of in your letter, the doctor's report of her was that she was in consumption, having then a temperature of 100 1/2. Of course she was tired from her journey, but her appearance bears out his opinion. The course you direct I think is the best one. Will carry it out shortly.

I have to report another death on Saturday last ; that of Percy White Beale, a passenger from Oklahoma, who was taken sick with pneumonia at his country home. After being attended for some time Dr. Given went to visit him and brought him to the school, then too far gone ever to recover.

After a good deal of carefulness we succeeded in expending all the money. Then word came from Washington that they had a charge against us for books from the Interior Department, amounting to nearly

VOL. 38

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-3-

Major Pratt.

$40.00. As we had been notified of a credit of $80.00 being placed to our '91 account, I suggested they take it out of that, there being no balance here.

Nothing has come up that seems specially to call your attention
that
but think to the whole country matters have been rather more trouble-
some than usual, though none more serious than ordinary failures.

Weather for the most part has been moderate, good for working -
although last Saturday was exceedingly hot, the thermometer reaching
100.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 26, 1899.

Wm. H. Patterson,
Sanborn, N. Y.
Dear Mr. Patterson :-

Your letter of the 24th has been received. In regard to
the boy and girls you mention, I see no reason why they may not be ad-
mitted here if conditions are all right, as you seem to think they are.
I have to say, however, that our school physician, Dr. Diven, is to vis-
it the New York reservations about the last of August and make person-
al examination of applicants. Will therefore the matter to be attend-
ded to at that time. Will notify you beforehand just when the doctor
will be there and you can take the children to him for examination and
acceptance if he so decides.

Hope you are all well and that you are going to have a fine big
apple crop this year.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 26, 1899.

Rev. M. F. Trippe,
Salamanca, N. Y.

Dear Mr. Trippe :-

Your letter of the 22nd inst. finds Major Pratt away from
home on the Pacific Coast and therefore comes to me?

In regard to the incoming students from New York reservations,
according to present plans it is the intention to send Dr. Diven into
your section of country, leaving here so as to be in your district by
Sunday the 20th of August. When this date is assured will write you
again; also the parties whom you mention.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 26, 1899.

Mr. D. E. Prior,
& 16 E. Broadway,
Logansport, Ind.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of the 24th inst. finds Major Pratt away from
home not to return for about a month yet. I therefore answer the
questions contained in your letter.

In regard to entering the Indian Service, it is done almost ex-
clusively through the Civil Service Commission. Applicants are re-
quired to pass an examination. This usually means a long wait and pos-
sible failure. When an appointment is to be made, the one whose ex-
amination grade is highest, gets the appointment. I understand that
the teachers' and matrons' lists are pretty well filled. There are
some minor positions that are filled outside of Civil Service , but
none that would be at all suitable for a person who is not in robust
health.

The climate of New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado is frequently
very beneficial to those who need a drier climate.

Any information as to the probability of an appointment can be
obtained by writing to The Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington
or the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Washington, D. C.
The probabilities of receiving an appointment by one who has not taken
an examination are very small indeed.

Very truly yours,

Dictated (P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 27, 1899.

Jonas Mitchell,
C/o Mrs. Katherine Keshawas,
Bay Shore, Mich.

Friend Jonas :-

When at the bank the other day Mr. Fuller asked me whether
or not we heard from you and where you were, and said that he would
like to hear from you to the extent of returning $5.00 which you
borrowed from him about the time you graduated, you stating that you
were in great need of the money and would return it promptly after you
got home.

You should never have borrowed this money. In the first place,
but having done so you should have kept your word and returned it.
It would not be hard for you to earn five dollars and pay your debt
to Mr. Fuller. I hope you will do so quickly and preserve your good
name here.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

80

Carlisle, Pa., July 27, 1899.

Mr. E. H. Funk,

Ada, Minn.

Dear Sir :-

Yours of the 24th inst. with $2.00 enclosed has been re-
ceived. Mrs. Given is still away from home. I suppose the other ten
will be found in her mail when she returns, thus making the amount
needed to pay's board.

I did not think it was desirable

In regard to Rea's coming home, I do not think it is desirable
to get his mind on the idea at all, as he seems to be perfectly well
and contented and there is no opportunity of an escort in sight. Then
again, it will be two years before he is due to go home according to
school custom, at the end of a five years' term. From what I see of
him day by day, I think you have no cause at all to be anxious on
his account.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 27, 1899.

Rev. A. Wells,
Pastor Indian Mission,
Hogansburg, N. Y.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of the 24th inst. in regard to children from
the St. Regis Reservation for this school has been received. Several
applications having been received from your district, it was decided
by Major Pratt to send one of our teachers to visit the reservation
towards the end of August who will select and bring on such suitable
pupils as may present themselves, but all pupils selected must be at
least 14 years of age, in good health and of nearly or full Indian
blood.

In regard to Mr. Billings' visit to the school, it is hardly
probable that it can be made at this time at Government expense, for
the reason that Miss Carter, the teacher appointed to visit you, will
be the pupils' escort. However, if he should wish to visit us at some
other time, say at Christmas or Commencement time we would be glad to
have him do so; at either time the school would be much more interest-
ing to him than now. We can probably help him to reduced rates on the
railroad when the time comes.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 27, 1899.

Sichu Atsye,

Laguna, N. Mex.

Friend Seichu :-

I have your letter of the 23rd in which you speak of coming back to Carlisle. Major Pratt has not as yet said anything to me about it so I suppose he does not expect anything to be done until his return about the 15th.

You understand of course that one great reason for your going home was that your health might be benefitted by the climate of New Mexico and it would be well not to be too quick in getting away from a climate that is likely to prove beneficial to you; but if it has been arranged by Major Pratt that you return and bring pupils with you, it will be necessary for you first to send in a list of those who want to come, giving the name and age of each. Parents must consent to their coming for at least five years. Do not make any promises of return home before that time nor attempt to take any under 12 years of age; boys should not be under 14. Consult with Mr. Robert Marmom and send on the list as soon as it is ready. Then if approved, tickets will be arranged for.

I enclose blanks for parents' consent and names, ages, etc. of pupils with addressed envelope for their return.

Dictated(P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 26, 1878.

Mrs. Lucy Panaas,
Kawadin,
Antrim Co., Mich.

Dear Madam :-

I have your letter of the 24th in regard to Jonah. The day he sent you some time ago, I thought would meet your case for a while, which I admit seems rather a hard one. I understand from Jonah that you have a good farm with good buildings and in fact are in very fair circumstances, and I should suppose able to hire a hand to do the necessary work on the farm, though your letter which speaks of your having so much work to do indicates otherwise.

To meet your case I have decided that if Jonah is able to pay his way, he will be allowed to return home. He has here $6.88. I ticket to Elk Rapids will cost about $25.00 If you send with the balance by P. O. money order, he may come home to help you, but the school cannot pay his way before the proper expiration of his term.

Yours very truly,

Anat. Dept. to charge.

Dietsted (P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 28, 1929.

Senator Wm. Hertzler,
Port Royal,
Juniaia Co., Is.

Dear Sirs:

Yours of the 25th accepting proposition for the band. I enclose herewith the usual agreement in such cases made in the name of Dennison Wheelock with whom settlement can be made when the service has been rendered. Please have your secretary sign and return one copy here.

yet
There is not as any advertising matter specially prepared, so I asked Mr. Wheelock to write a little description of the band which may furnish some material to include in your fair posters if you so desire.

Distorted (P)

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BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 28, 1899.

Miss Emily Paake,
Indian School,
Oneida, Wis.

Dear Friend Emily !—

I have your letter of the 24th speaking of your prospective trip to White Earth and your purpose of bringing on some pupils for Carlisle. In regard to this, there does not seem anything to be done until you have reached White Earth and know what the prospect is of getting up a party. I will say, however, that we find an increasing need of being very particular as to the class of pupils accepted. All so many who come should be real Indians, not mixed bloods, and of suitable age and character. In the case of boys, none should be under 14, nor girls under 12 years. Our object now is not to take children so young as we have been doing nor with as little preparation. They should be somewhat advanced so that they may be able to graduate within the five years' term. In every case make it plain that five years or until graduation is the school period, with no return home before that time. We must avoid any misunderstanding or cause for dissatisfaction on either they get here.

When you have reached home and found out what there is, please send a little list giving a description of the candidates, and we will quickly arrange the necessary transportation.

Diated(F)

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 28, 1899.

Mrs. Perris Fowler,
Gresham,
Shawano Co., Wis.

Dear Madam :-

Yours of the 24th to Major Pratt in regard to the return
home of Philip Towsey finds Major Pratt absent from the school not to
return until the middle of August. Your letter therefore comes to me
for a reply. I find that Philip has not been here quite two years,
whereas he entered for a term of five years unless he should graduate
sooner, so that there is no prospect of his being allowed to go home
this year.

I can say for Philip that he is much improved in every way since
being here. He was at first a pretty troublesome boy but seems to be
capable and is getting along much better.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., July 28, 1899.

Rev. Geo. Runciman,

Versailles, N. Y.

Dear Mr. Runciman :-

From time to time letters have been received from different parties on the New York reservations in regard to incoming pupils this fall, to which the reply has generally been that towards the end of August an agent of the school would visit the reservations and make selections. It is intended that Dr. Diven do this and we had in mind that he should strike the main point about the 20th of August. Whether it would be at Cattaraugus, or which place would be the best point for beginning has not been determined yet. Would like to have your opinion. The intention is to select the parties and forward them on without delay. Mr. Lincoln of the Thomas Asylum has some for transfer, I don't know just how many. For the others who come we want quality - we are endeavoring all the time to raise the grade of pupils as well as the standard of the school. No scholastic test will be enforced this time, but probably this will be the last party who can come in without such a test, as we would like to get those who could graduate within a reasonable time.

Let us hear from you again and obligo,

Dictated(P)

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., July 28, 1899.

Mrs. Theresa Gouge,
Iron River,
Bayfield Co., Wis.

Dear Madam :-

Your letter in regard to your daughter's entering this school
has been received. In reply I have to say that if she is accepted at
all it will be for the five year period unless she should graduate from
or; but before giving a definite answer it is necessary that you send
particulars as to her age, what schooling she has had, and a doctor's
certificate that her health is good; also name the railroad point
from which she would start. There are some pupils coming in from Oneida
but it would probably be difficult to arrange to come with them and
there would be no danger in your daughter's coming alone if she should
be accepted. Let us hear from you again.

I glad to know that Joseph speaks well of his school. He was a
satisfactory pupil while here.

Diated(P)

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95

Carlisle, Pa., July 29, 1899.

Mrs. Augusta R. Pyle,
Hulmeville, Pa.

Dear Madam :-

Since writing you in regard to the subject of your letter
of the 24th our visiting agent, Mrs. Dorsett, has been to Mrs. Worrell's
and canvassed the matter thoroughly with the result that she does not
think Rachel guilty of the theft. Her belief in this matter is shared
by the Worrells who have watched carefully for any evidence of the
money since the time of your visit without finding any. Personally I
share the opinion expressed by our school agent in her report, for the
reason that I regard it as practically impossible for an Indian girl,
to have so much money for any length of time without giving evidence
of it in purchases of a character that would show for themselves.

It seems that this has not happened and that there is no direct evi-
dence whatever to fasten the theft on Rachel. I do not see that there
is anything more we can do in this case, more than two months after
the occurrence.

Dictated (P)

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97

Carlisle, Pa., July 31, 1899.

Miss Lettie Scott
C/c Mrs. Hollinshead,
Hollinshead, N. J.

Dear Friend :-

I am very glad to find by your letter of the 28th that you have been successful in getting a school for the coming winter; and now in regard to the time when you can be relieved. You must do this in such a way as to be agreeable to your country mother. Talking the matter over with Miss Ely, I find that there is no one now that we can send in your place, but perhaps inside of two weeks will be able to do so. Miss Ely will write to Mrs. Hollinshead and see what arrangements can be made.

I return your letter herewith.

Dictated (P)

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98

Carlisle, Pa., July 31, 1899.

Rev. M. F. Trippe,
Salamanca, New York.

Dear Mr. Trippe :--

Yours of the 28th inst. with letter in regard to Nicodemus
Billy has been received. Nicodemus is only a little boy who came
here last year, then nominally twelve years old; so that he could not
be of much use at home.

This is one of those numerous cases in which requests come to
have children sent home in this way, that cannot well be complied
with; otherwise pupils would be going and coming all the time.
Parents must realize in sending their children away for a term of
years that many things are possible, even the death of one or the oth-
er, and the mere matter of transportation would make it impossible
aside from the breaking up and uncertainty of the school.

Dictated (P)

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99

Carlisle, Pa., August 1, 1899.

Mrs. Edward H. Brown,
Highland Park, Ill.

Dear Madam :-

Your letter of inquiry dated July 27th has been received.
Major Pratt, the Superintendent, is away from home, and I therefore
send you all the printed information we have on hand, consisting of
annual reports, addresses, and an article on the school in a former
number of The "New England Magazine". Please return the magazine when
you have used it, as our supply is nearly exhausted, and we have many
calls for them.

From the material sent I trust you can find what you want. The
Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs gives an exhaus-
tive report of the work among the Indians all over the United States,
and you can probably obtain a copy of this report by writing to the
Commissioner at Washington, D. C.

(E)

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102

Carlisle, Pa., August 1st, 1899.

Editor of the Sentinel,
Carlisle, Pa.

Sir:

Referring to your question over the phone this morning in relation to Eugene Tankapur an Indian living in Massachusetts and said to be guilty of murder and suicide. I have to say that Eugene entered this school in 1880, remained as a pupil, with frequent country outings until 1887 when he went to live at Conway, Mass. making his home there and bearing always a good character for industry and general conduct.

He became a citizen and looked upon that locality as his permanent home.

His intelligence was not above the average, consequently he never graduated; had merely enough education for ordinary business, but here, and every where up till this time conduct and record have been of the best.

From the date of his entering the school at about the age of 16 it will be seen that he is now a man of mature years, who has been his own master for a long time and is in no sense connected with this school now, or for years past, except that he was once a student here.

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104

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 2nd, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
C/o Supt. Indian School,
Chemawa, Ore.

Dear Major :-

You should have received a letter from me at Klamath, also a telegram sent yesterday. The latter referred to an occurrence which you will see in the press despatches in regard to Eugene Tahkapeur, who has ended his career in a manner altogether at variance with his previous life. A telegram from Miss Carter states that the facts as they appear in the newspapers are correct.

Mrs. Given is back and on duty. Miss Carter left for her home yesterday with full instructions in regard to St. Regis affairs. Miss Robertson reached here Monday morning with six new pupils, five girls and one small boy in the party. They are more Indian than any we have had from that agency for many years and seem a pretty fair selection. James Wheelock left a week ago for Wisconsin, but have heard nothing from him as yet. Word came this morning from Casa Grande that Miss Gracey is ready with eight and waiting for transportation. No previous word from them had been received about this. I havearranged transportation for them over the A. T. & S.F. R.R. to Chicago. Have had no other information in regard to incoming pupils except scattering individuals.

Department matters seem very quiet. Received a reprimand letter because the accounts were not in by the 20th, stating that no more

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105

-2-

Major pratt.

funds would be placed to our credit until explanation was given.

However, as we are well fixed in that regard for some months, it does
not hurt very badly.

In about one more day we will be as far along with the building
as we can go without the steel beams. That order is with the Carnegie
people and every effort is being made by Mr. Gardner and myself to
get them here.

Supplies - sugar, coffee and rice, are coming in, but transporta-
arrangements are not completed yet and I had to guarantee the freight
before I could get the goods released. I suppose this will ar-
range itself in a day or two as I reported the case at once to the
Department.

Am sorry to say that country runaways have been very frequent
during the last ten days.

The country around here is getting pretty dry and we are much in
need of a good rain. The shower we are having just now will help
some. The prospect for a very large corn crop is good throughout the
valley, our own included.

There seems nothing more of interest or importance to report.

Asst. Supt. in charge.

Dictated (P)

Have just received word that the beams left Pittsburg yesterday.

VOL. 38

106

Mr. Pressel,
Dillsburg, Pa.

Dear Sir :-

Replying to your letter of the 29th ult. in the absence of Major Pratt I have to say that all teachers' positions here are obtained through the Civil Service Commission, and unless you have passed an examination you are not eligible for teachers' work at this school.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

108

Samuel Pontiac,
C/o Mr. A. J. Miller,
Neshaminy,
Bucks Co., Pa.

Friend Samuel :-

I have your letter of July 30th in regard to Scott Peters
and yourself. Your letter is quite a long one and tells me very much
what Scott Peters told me; but I want to call your attention to a few
things; first, Scott's ticket was for Hatboro. He got off at Willow
Grove, so of course there was no one to meet him and he and his trunk
were separated. The whole trouble was that Scott was in too great a
hurry to go and did not wait for the proper arrangements to be made.

In regard to Scott's being poisoned and his after treatment I
have this to say; that people are different, some poison, some do
not. When Scott reached here he went at once to the hospital but the
next day was well enough to be discharged and has since been doing
duty. Now I am not saying that everything that was done by Mr. Miller
or was not done by him was just right, but do say that Scott Peters
was in part to blame and is now none the worse for his experience.
For yourself I have been pleased to notice that you have stuck to
your work, and as we have twice as many boys as usual here this sum-
mer on account of the band boys, I want you to get along where you are
until the regular time for the boys to come in. It will be only a
few weeks and we will then have Mr. Miller's place under advisement
in regard to another year.

Your friend,

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113

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 3rd, 1899.

Mr. Fillmore Jackson,
Versailles, New York.

Dear Sir :-

I have your letter in regard to Rollo. Up to that date I did not know that he had had any experience in band work, but have since seen him and talked with him about it and made him acquainted with the band leader who has charge of such matters, and if not right now, he will in the future get some chance for this instruction. He is well and doing very well this summer.

Your letter found Major Pratt away from home, so I have answered it for him.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

115

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 4, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
Tacoma, Wash.

Dear Major :-

You will find a letter awaiting you at Chemawa, and by comparing dates and route I think this will reach you all right at Tacoma providing your plans have not changed. I enclose you herewith the best newspaper account of the Eugene Tahkapeur matter and will say that most eastern papers seem to treat the case fairly.

I was informed by Mr. Miller yesterday that he had manifests of the iron beams which are on the way between Pittsburg and here and should be here today. Nothing of importance has come from the Department until this morning, when authority comes to advertise for sewer-age pipes, closet fixtures, etc.

It has been a very difficult matter to arrange the students' pay roll satisfactorily as the number which is so much larger than in former years, has made the bites for each very small. When you come back it would be well to consider the matter of handling it for August. The work during July except on the farms has not been heavy, as we have not been in a position to push. In August it will be different. Have been disappointed so far about the stone crusher as the motor has been found to need repairs at the factory. No knowing now when we will get it.

Received information day before yesterday that Miss Gracey was ready to start with eight. That was the first word from her, so I ar-

VOL. 38

-2- Major Pratt.

ranged transportation over the A. T. & S. F. R.R. to Chicago and
through Mr. Wood Chicago to Carlisle.Nothing as yet from any other
point has come except two boys at Darlington and word from Mrs. Cook
in regard to a few from the Pacific Coast, and intimating that she is
to come via Laguna to be joined by a party there; but of this nothing
definite has reached me.

A letter from Miss Miller informs that she will be here on the
8th.

The whole work of kalsomining will be finished in a few days.
Coal delivery drags but there seems no help for it as the mines are
working up to their limit. A timely rain this morning will benefit
our lawn very much.

While things are much as usual, the pressure has been such that
I have not been able to keep up with what should be done in some lines
particularly in regard to the exhibit business and report preparation.

Dictated (F)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 4th, 1899.

Mrs. Jessie W. Cook,
Spaulding Hotel,
Pasadena, Cal.

Dear Mrs. Cook :-

I have your letter in regard to bringing in some pupils, but
find some difficulty in understanding where you want the transporta-
tion. However, I gather from your letter three possible points, San
Francisco, Sacramento, and Banning. As you have to come by Laguna
transportation will necessarily be over the Santa Fe route to Chicago
at which point transportation east will be arranged over the Pennsyl-
vania. It is practicably impossible to name a definite through rate,
but the estimated amount will be $60.00. It may vary a little from
this but cannot state positively as we have not had time to obtain
the rates yet. I will arrange at once that you get the transportation
asked for. It would be better that the money paid by the guardians
be given to you and settlement with the railroad company be made
here for all, as the rates we get are special.

Nothing definite in regard to the Laguna people has come to me
although something may come in a few days. Major is probably working
it up. In regard to any who may come from Laguna, the age matter
should be carefully watched as the tendency has been to send some lit-
tle tots and some who are altogether over age. Wire me any time you
find it necessary.

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Miss Emma A. Cutter,
Amherst, Mass.

Dear Miss Cutter :—

Thank you for your letter giving particulars in regard to
Eugene Tehkapeur. I received your message in regard to the funeral,
and counseling with others here I did not feel that there was any ob-
ligation on us in the matter. He had been so long separated from the
school that to take any measures not absolutely necessary which would
seem to identify him more closely with the school, was not good policy.
Had he been a Yale or Harvard graduate, they would not have felt
called upon to move in the matter I think. By his act he surely
forfeited anything from us except pity and regret that after so many
good years the end should more than undo all the good he had accom-
plished. It was well however, that he put an end to his own life at
the same time, thus saving himself probably from a lynching even in
Massachusetts.

Things at Carlisle have not been as quiet as usual in the vaca-
tion period, our numbers here being so much larger than usual.

Owing to the difficulty of getting the necessary material, build-
ing is not progressing rapidly, and will not be nearly so far advanced
as we expected it would by the opening of school.

Hoping you are enjoying your vacation month, I am

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 4, 1899.

Miss Ella G. Hill,
Peak Island, Me.

Dear Miss Hill :-

I have your letter of the 2nd stating your desire for an
additional week at the end of August. As things now are I see no rea-
son why it cannot be as you wish, but will ask you to keep us advised
of your address so that if there should be any change necessary, we
can notify you.

Miss James not been able for duty yet. She is very anxious to
come out, but the doctor does not approve of it. I passed through the
laundry this morning and in talking with Mrs. Wolfe found they are
getting on all right. Expect next week to get the kalsominers at
work there.

The story in regard to Eugene Takapeur is all true. This is one
out of the many we will have to rest under.

With kind regards,

Dictated(P)

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126

BLURRED TEXT

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 5, 1869.

W. B. Holland, Editor,
"Journal of Finance",
45 Broadway,
New York City.

Sir :-

Complying with request in your letter of the 3rd inst. I
have had a selection of photographs made and labeled, which will meet
your wants about as well as anything we have.

In your former letter I understood your article would relate
exclusively to the Chillico School. What we did not want was that
Carlisle pictures should be used as illustrations of Chillico. I
trust therefore, that in any use you may make of them you will credit
them to Carlisle. If there are any among those sent which you do not
owe to use you can return them and remit the amount of bill less
those you return.

Bill is enclosed.

Dictated(P)

VOL. 38

BLURRED TEXT

Aug. 5, 1899.

Rev. Henry M. Field,
Stockbridge, Mass.

Dear Sir :-

Your letter of the 3rd inst. to Major Pratt
finds him away from home on the Pacific Coast. I there
fore acknowledge it in his stead, so that you may under
stand why you do not hear from him immediately. On his
behalf I thank you for your timely and kindly letter,
and would say in regard to Eugene that he was not a
graduate, and probably would never have been able to
graduate; but he was throughout his career here a reli-
able and steady boy, and all that we have known of him
since he went to Massachusetts in 1887 has been of a
favorable nature. This one act, however, destroys his
record. The fact that he was an Indian will, in the
estimation of the general public, add much to the enor-
mity of the deed.

Dictated (P)

VOL. 38

135

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 8, 1899.

Malpass Cloud,
Keshena, Wis.

Friend Malpass :-

I have your letter of Aug. 6th asking for a certificate in
regard to yourself that would aid you in procuring employment.

I am very sorry that I cannot give you a certificate that would
be of any service to you. Your record here was not of the best and
in workmanship you only reached the apprentice grade. I notice that
your letter is written on government paper and I recommend you to
make such a record in your work where you are that you can get from
your present employer the recommendation you desire, which will be mer
valuable to you than anything you can get from here at this late date.

Had the case been different I would gladly have complied with
your request.

VOL. 38

138

Carlisle, Pa., August 9, 1899.

Miss Dollie Johnson,
Powhuska, Okla. Ter.

Dear Miss Johnson:--

Your letter to Major Pratt, making application
for admission to this School, finds the Major away from home and
comes to me for attention.

Before any answer can be given you it will be necessary to know
more about you as to your health, general character, and proportion
of Indian blood that you have.

There are some others, I think, to come from your place within
a few weeks from now when Lizzie Aikin intends to return. You had
better see her and talk things over, and then write again giving
the particulars asked for. Also state why you left Lincoln. Did
you complete the course, and do they expect you back there?

(Dictated)
M.

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Penna., August 9,1899.

Mr. Thomas Black Bear,

Porcupine, S. Dakota.

Friend Thomas:--

Your letter of the 3rd to hand and referred to Miss Ely for information about the photographs. She tells me that owing to a change in the photographer, Choate selling out, there has been delay in getting them, but that the whole quantity was forwarded about two weeks ago to Henry Standing Bear, as Henry had arranged with her to do this, saying he would see to the distribution.

(Diated)
M.

VOL. 38

140

Miss Mollie M. Elmore,

Copley, Shasta Co., Cal.

Dear Friend:--

Your letter to Major in regard to your money has
been received, but whatever may be due you I am sorry to say cannot
be sent you just now because Miss Luckenbach is away on vacation
and your account on the book shows $1.80 in debt to the School,
but you may have money at interest which we know nothing about until
Miss Luckenbach returns. You will therefore have to wait.

(Dictated)
M.

VOL. 38

Carlisle, Pa., Aug. 9, 1899.

Major R. H. Pratt,
C/O Supt. Hart,
Puyallup Ind. School,
Tacoma, Wash.

Dear Major :--

I have your letter of the 2nd inst., from which I find you
are not swinging around quite as rapidly as I had expected; but you
will meet letters and telegrams at Ager, Chemawa, Portland, and Taco-
ma, one being addressed to the general delivery post office. From
them you will be advised of how we are getting along in general. I
have very little of importance to add.

Miss Miller has arrived and is on duty. Miss Barr is back today
A case in the country, that of a girl, said to be appendicitis required
Dr. Diven to go this morning. The girl is Nora Denny, from Quapaw
Agency. The doctor will bring her here if possible; if not he will
take her to the M. E. Hospital in Philadelphia in case an operation
must be performed.

Advertisements are out for the sewer pipe, etc., and we have made
a commencement on the ditching. Am now at work on the specifications
which will be ready in a day or two for the closet work.

Department matters seem particularly quiet. We have very little correspondence of any kind in that direction. The freight is coming by open market with regular government bills of lading to be receipted by you. I should say, however, that but little of it is coming, and I shall write to the Department in a day or two in regard

141

VOL. 38

142

-2- Major Pratt.

to hastening clothing material, as we have not a bit in stock.

I am in a little quandry about the harness leather. It equals the sample, is suitable in weight, and looks good. But Mr. Kemp says it is not oak tanned. Mr. Smith says it is from a first class tannery, for which he is the agent and he accepts it as oak tanned, and that he does not think the tanners would use their brand on something that was not genuine. I have asked him to procure a statement from the tanners in regard to it. This is a Milwaukee firm, and it looks as though we were in almost the same position as the Department was last year. The leather equals the sample, but is not genuine oak tanned. What do you advise ?

It seems that while you were arranging for Miss Gracey's party with Mr. Goodman, Mr. Hadley at Sacaton wired me that they were awaiting transportation, which, as I advised in my former letter, I provided over the Santa Fe. Do not know at what rate yet. All is settled for Mrs. Cook's party and the Laguna children, using Santa Fe Lines. The rate from San Francisco seems high, $52.50 to Chicago, but as there are only three or four persons and it is necessary for them to come by Laguna it cannot be helped.

I start one girl via Washington for Perris tomorrow on account of ill health.

Nothing has come to hand that would appear to mean anything from the northwest except a straggler or two from the Crow Agency.

Later .- Since writing the above a letter comes from the Crow Agent advising that he has three boys. If you are not coming that way I will arrange transportation for them. If you expect to come by that way, advise me.

(P)

VOL. 38