Indian Papers of Texas and the Southwest, Vol. V

52 mitted to me. From it you will perceive, that various complaints have been made against a person, residing opposite the Presidio del Norte, calling himself Ben: Leaton, and the place of his resi- dence, Fort Leaton. Among the complaints which have been made against this person, and in fact, the one, to which I chiefly desire to call your attention, is the trade, which he continually carries on with the Apache and Comanche Indians. I need hardly state the fact to you, that these Indians are continually engaged in murdering, robbing and plundering the citizens of this coun- try; it is not therefore, not only probable, but positive proof is in the hands of the Commandant General, that a great portion of the illicit traffic, consists in the selling and purchasing of the very goods and property of the citizens of this country and of which they have been robbe~ by the Indians. But the evil con- sists not only in this: In return for the plunder which this person takes from the Indians, he furnishes them with arms, powder, lead, and other articles of ammunition. This in itself, alone would be sufficient grounds for a complaint against this individual to you, inasmuch as a citizen of the United States, a country with which this Republic is upon the most friendly terms, furnishes these Indians, who are at War with this country, with the means to carry on the War. But how much stronger is the case against this individual when you take into consideration, the Eleventh article of the Treaty of Peace, between the two Governments of the United States binds itself to protect this frontier, from the incursions of these Indians. I therefore respectfully request you to take this matter into consideration, and to inform me whether by virtue of your of- fice, you can take any steps to prevent a recurrence of these out- rages, or if not, who is the proper person to address myself to.

I am very respectfully, Your Obedt. Servt. (signed) EMILIO LANGBERG

Paso, State of Chihuahua October 23rd, 1849. Colonel Emilio Langberg Inspector of Mily Colonies to Major Van Horne, Comdg American troops opposite Paso. In reference to abuses committed by an American named Leaton near Pre- sidio del Norte. True copy: Geo: Deas Asst Adjt. Genl. Hd. Qrs. 8th Dept. San Antonio Jany. 9- 1850

[Endorsed:]

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