giato and Ravalli, who have lately returned from that country.
The confidence you feel in the peaceful desires of the Indians toward the whites is shared by the general. They have only to act up to these desires to obtain the good will of the whites toward them.
The general approves your proposition of permitting some of the chiefs of the various nations to accompany you to this place to pay him their respects. He will be glad to see them and to explain to them the intentions of the Gov ernment as far as they are concerned. Their expenses and food will be provided them during the journey to and from their homes, but they must not expect presents for the general has none to give.
It would be well that you return as early in the spring as practicable, for some contingency may arise requiring the general's presence elsewhere.
I am most sensible of the kind feelings you have been pleased to entertain toward myself, and tender you the assurance of an unworthy but devoted regard and friendship. May you always enjoy the blessings you so generously solicit for others.
Your letters have been duly forwarded.
I remain, Father, with the highest respect, Your obedient servant,
A. PLEASONTON,
Captain 2d Dragoons, Asst. Adjt.-Gen'l. Reverend Father P. J. DE SMET, S. J.,
Chaplain, U. S. A., Caur d'Aline Mission.
Fort Vancouver, W. T., May 28, 1859. My Dear Father:
The general desires me to say he has notified Agent Owen not to interfere in any way with the Indian chiefs now at