WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 184,3
330
visit did not advance the prospect of a treaty; and I am sorry that they ever went upon their voluntary mission,- for so it was. It is important that we should come to some understanding of our affairs with our red brothers. Therefore, if there is a decided prospect of a speedy treaty being made, it will be proper to have it done; but if there is not, let one of the commissioners remain at some point where he can be safe and comfortable, and keep some one or more of the men who have been engaged, still employed among the different tribes, giving and receiving in- formation, and sending all that is important to this place by express, so as to keep the President properly advised, that he may suggest such measures and pursue such a course as will enable him hereafter to establish relations of a friendly character, if possible, with the Indians. While things are thus attended to on the frontier, it will be proper for the commissioners to stay on the ground, unless they had an immediate prospect, thereby, of success; and that, I would suppose, could be ascertained by this time. I would like to see Luis Sanchez and John Jacobs with the chiefs here; but it may be that they could not be spared, if you do not succeed for the present in making a treaty with the tribes gen- erally. I would like much to see Mr. Wyman, as it is probable that his services may be employed hereafter by the government. If Maj. Thomas I. Smith 1 is a commissioner, and it would suit him to remain, I would be gratified - if they conclude generally to return, from the intimation I have made. If none of the com- missioners can remain, it will be proper to select some suitable person, in whom they have confidence, with character and quali- fications, to remain and act as stated, until such time as the Indians could genreally be brought in. But before leaving, they can make a treat11 with such as are vresent, and engage them to b1·ing about a peace with those whom you do not see. The tribes on the frontier being at peace generally with each other will give weight to this suggestion; and the very name of a treaty with those already there will have a very decided influence with those who have not attended to treat. Even a treaty for the :present with the Shawnees, Delawares, and Kickapoos, would Jiave an imp01·tant bearing upon our Indian relations. This you ,can do at once, and bring the chiefs to see me. You surely can .ao· something that will serve as a commencement and leave to the future its conduct and consummation.
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