It can
not be too soon for the Indian nor for the interests and good name of
the nation.
The average attendance of Indian pupils on the schools increased by over
900 during the year, and the total enrollment reached 15,212. The cost
of maintenance was not materially raised. The number of teachable Indian
youth is now estimated at 40,000, or nearly three times the enrollment
of the schools. It is believed the obstacles in the way of instructing
are all surmountable, and that the necessary expenditure would be a
measure of economy.
The Sioux tribes on the great reservation of Dakota refused to assent to
the act passed by the Congress at its last session for opening a portion
of their lands to settlement, notwithstanding modification of the terms
was suggested which met most of their objections. Their demand is for
immediate payment of the full price of $1.25 per acre for the entire
body of land the occupancy of which they are asked to relinquish.
The manner of submission insured their fair understanding of the law,
and their action was undoubtedly as thoroughly intelligent as their
capacity admitted. It is at least gratifying that no reproach of
over-reaching can in any manner lie against the Government, however
advisable the favorable completion of the negotiation may have been
esteemed.
I concur in the suggestions of the Secretary regarding the Turtle
Mountain Indians, the two reservations in California, and the Crees.
Pages:
884
885
886
887
888
889
890
891
892
893
894
895
896
897
898
899
900
901
902
903
904
905
906
907
908