The Aftermath

Compiled by Stephenie Flora

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Oregon Spectator Dec 10, 1847

"Fort Vancouver, 7th Dec. 1847
Geo. Abernethy, Esq.
Sir, having received intelligence last night, by special express, from Walla Walla of the destruction of the Missionary settlement at Waiilatpu, by the Cayuse Indians of that place; we hasten to communicate the particulars of that dreadful event, one of the most attrocious which darkens the annals of Indian crime.

Our lamented friend Dr. Whitman, his amiable and accomplished lady, with nine other persons have fallen victims to the fury of these remorseless savages, who appear to have been instigated to this appaling crime by a horrible suspicion which had taken possession of their superstitious minds, in consequence of the number of deaths from dysentery and measles, that Dr. Whitman was silently working the destruction of their tribe by administering poisonous drugs under the semblance of salutary medicines.

With a goodness of heart and benevolence truly his own, Dr. Whitman had been laboring incessantly since the appearance of the measles and dysentery amoung his Indian converts, to relieve their sufferings, and such has been the reward of his generous labors.

A copy of Mr. McBean's letter herewith, will give you all the particulars, known to us, of this indiscribably painful event.

Mr. Ogden with a strong party will leave this place as soon as possible for Walla Walla, to endeavor to prevent further evil; and we beg to suggest to you the propriety of taking instant measures for the protection of the Rev. Mr. Spaulding; who for the sake of his family, ought to abandon the Clear Water Mission, without delay, and retire to a place of safety, as he cannot remain at that isolated station without imminent risk, in the present excited, and irritatable state of the Indian population.

I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your most obedient servent,
JAMES DOUGLAS"

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Oregon Spectator Dec 10, 1847

"Oregon City, Dec. 8, 1847
Gentlemen-- It is my painful duty to lay the inclosed communication before your Honorable Body. They will give you the particulars of the horrible massacre committed by the Cayuse Indians on the residents of Waiilatpu. This is one of the most distressing circumstances that has occurred in our Territory, and one that calls for immediate and prompt action. I am aware to meet this case, funds will be required, and suggest the propriety of applying to the Hon. Hudson's Bay Company and the Merchants of this place for a loan to carry out whatever plan you may fix upon. I have no doubt but the expenses attending this affair will be promptly met by the United States Government.

The wives and children of the murdered persons, Rev. Mr. Spaulding and family and all others who may be in the upper country, should at once be proffered assistance, and an escort to convey them to a place of safety.

I have the honor to remain, Gentlemen,
Your ob't servant,
GEO. ABERNETHY"

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Oregon Spectator Dec. 10, 1847

"Fort Nez Perces, 30th Nov 1847
TO THE BOARD OF MANAGEMENT:
Gentlemen, It is my painful task to make you acquainted with a horrid massacre which took place yesterday at Waiilatpu, about which I was first apprised early this morning by an American who had escaped, of the name of Hall, and who reached this half naked and covered with blood. As he started at the onset, the information I obtained was not satisfactory. He, however, assured me that the Doctor and another man were killed, but could not tell me the persons who did it, and how it originated.

I immediately determined on sending my interpreter and one man to Dr. Whitman's to find out the truth, and if possible to rescue Mr. Manson's two sons, and any of the survivors. It so happened that before the interpreter had proceeded half way, the two boys were met on their way hither escorted by Nicholas Finlay, it having been previously settled among the Indians that these boys should not be killed as also the American women and children. Peloquoit is the Chief who recommended this measure. I presume you are well acquainted that fever and dysentery has been raging here, and in this vicinity, in consequence of which a great number of Indians have been swept away, but more especially at the Doctor's place where he attended upon the indians. About 30 souls, of the Cayuse tribe died, one after another, who eventually believed the Doctor poisoned them, and in which opinion they were unfortunately confirmed by one of the Doctor's party. As far as I have been able to learn, this has been the sole cause of the dreadful butchery.

In order to satisfy any doubt on that point, it is reported that they requested the Doctor to administer medicine to three of their friends, two of whom were really sick, but the third only feigning illness, and that the three were corpses next morning. After they were buried, and while the Doctor's men were employed slaughtering an ox, the Indians came one by one to his house, with their arms concealed under their blankets and being all assembled, commenced firing on those slaughtering the animal, and in a moment the Doctor's house was surrounded. The Doctor and a young lad brought up by himself, were shot in the house. His lady, Mr. Rogers and the children had taken refuge in the garret, but were dragged down and dispatched (excepting the children) outside, where their bodies were left exposed. It is reported that it was not their intention to kill Mr. Rogers, in consequence of an avowal to the following effect, which he is said to have made, and which nothing but a desire to save his life could have prompted him to do so. He said, `I was one evening lying down and I overheard the Doctor telling Rev. Mr. Spaulding that it was best you should be all poisoned at once, but that the latter told him it was best to continue slowly and cautiously, and between this and spring not a soul would remain, when they would take possession of your lands, cattle and horses.'

These are only Indian reports, and no person can believe the Doctor capable of such an action, without being as ignorant and brutal as the Indians themselves. One of the murderers not having been made acquainted with the above understanding, shot Mr. Rogers.

It is well understood that eleven lives were lost and three wounded. It is also rumored they are to make an attack upon the Fort; let them come! If they will not listen to reason; thought I have only five men at the establishment I am prepared to give them a warm reception; the gates are closed day and night, and bastions in readiness. In company with Mr. Manson's two sons was sent a young half breed Lad, brought up by Doctor Whitman--they are all here and have got over their fright. The ring-leaders in this horrible butchery, are Telequoit, his son, Big Belly, Tamsuchy, Esticus, Toumoulish, etc. I understand from the interpreter that they were making one common grave for the deceased.

The houses were stripped of everything in the shape of property, but when they came to divide the spoil, they fell out among themselves, and all agreed to put back the property. I am happy to state the Walla Wallas had no hand in the whole business--they were all the Doctor's own people, (the Cayuses.) One American shot another and took the Indian's part, to save his own life.

Allow me to draw a veil over this dreadful affair which is too painful to dwell upon, and which I have explained comfortably to information received, and with sympathizing feelings.
I remain, with much respect, Gentlemen,
Your most obe't hum. serv't
WILLIAM MCBEAN
N.B. I have just learnt that the Cayuses are to be here to-morrow to kill Serpent Jaune the Walla Walla chief. W.McB.

NAMES OF THOSE WHO WERE KILLED:
1. Doctor Whitman
2. Mrs. Whitman
3. Mr. Rogers
4. Mr. Hofman
5. Mr. Sanders (Schoolmaster)
6. Mr. Osborne (Carpenter)
7. Mr. Marsh
8. Jno. Sager
9. Frs. Sager
10. Mr. Canfield (Blacksmith)
11. Mr. _________ (a Sailor)
Besides three that were wounded, more or less, Messrs. Hall, Kemble and another whose name I cannot learn. W. McB."
[NOTE: see my list at end of page]

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Oregon Spectator January 20, 1847

"Fort Vancouver, Dec. 4, 1847, Mr. George Abernethy, Dear Sir--A Frenchman from Walla Walla arrived at my place on last Saturday and informed me that he was on his way to Vancouver and wished me to assist in procuring him a canoe immediately. I was very inquisitive to know if there was any difficulty above. He said four Frenchmen had died recently and he wished to get others to occupy their places. I immediately got him a canoe and concluded to go down in company with him in order to get some medicine for the Indians as they were dying off with the measles and other diseases very fast. I was charged with indifference. They said we were killing in not giving them medicine, and I found if we were not exposing our lives we were our peace and consequently I set out for this place. This side of the Cascades I was made acquainted with the horrid massacre that took place at Waiilatpu last Monday. Horrid to relate! The Doctor and Mrs. Whitman, Mr. Rogers, Mr. Osborn, Mr. Saunders (a school teacher), the two orphan boys, viz. John and Francis together with all of the men at that place, numbering eleven in all. Some are living at the saw-mill which is situated about 20 miles from the Doctor's. A party set out for that place to despatch them; also a party for Mr. Spaulding's to despatch them, and they are not satisfied yet, but a party is said to have started for my place and doubtless has, if true, reached there before this time. Oh, had I known it when I was at home. I can neither sleep nor take any rest on the account of my family and those with them, viz. my wife and child, the Doctor's nephew, Doct. Saffarans, Mr. McKinney and wife. If I had ten men I could defend myself with perfect case by occupying the meeting house which is very roomy and close. You see my situation, as well as Mr. Spaulding's. I have perfect confidence in your doing all you can to get a party to come up and spend the winter here; likewise to go to the rescue of the women and children, and Mr. Spaulding is alive which I think is very doubtful.

Delay not a moment in sending a few men for my protection. A few moments may save our lives. I expect to leave to-morrow for home, and perhaps the first salutation will be a ball. My family is there and I must return if it costs my life. We are all in the hands of the merciful God. Why should we be alarmed? I will close by saying again send a small force immediately without the delay of one day. Farewell,
Yours truly,
ALANSON HINMAN"

On December 19 Peter Skene Ogden arrived at Fort Walla Walla with two batteaus loaded with trading goods. Runners were sent in all directions to the chief men of the tribes to be with him at the fort.

There were only two men in all Oregon who would dare to take so small a force far into the heart of the enemy country for such a parley. But Dr. McLoughlin, the great white headed eagle, was not in charge at Fort Vancouver in 1847. Peter Skene Ogden stood next in the minds of the Indians. He was known and trusted the length of the land as the representative of the great Hudson's Bay company that had brought them wealth and security for so long.

With the care of long practice he stood before them in all the splendor and gold braid he could assemble. He spoke with sharp authority and the leaders sitting in a half circle before him felt the justice of his rebukes.

He states his desires simply. He wanted the survivors and was prepared to pay a suitable ransom. Each of the chieftains talked, and Ogden watched the sullen face of Five Crows closely.

At last the meeting was dismissed and the Indians rode homeward in dejected silence. Their wrath had been allowed to flare in one act of vicious hatred but they knew well it was futile to attempt to stem the tide.

Back at the mission Five Crows renewed his pleas to Lorinda to become his wife. He pointed out the advantages of position and prestige that would be hers as his wife. All of his proposals were met with only a negative shake of her head

Finally, Lorinda was returned to the mission where she rejoined the other captives for the trip to Oregon City and freedom.

*****
Oregon Spectator Jan 20, 1847

"Fort Vancouver, Sat. 12h 40m. P.M.
Geo. Abernethy, Esq.
Governor,
Sir--Mr. Ogden has this moment arrived with three boats from Walla Walla and I [? faded] to say that he has brought down all the women and children from Waiilatpu. Mr. and Mrs. Spaulding, and Mr. Stanley, the artist. Messrs. Walker and Eels were safe and well--they were not considered to be in danger. The reports of the later murders committed at Waiilatpu, are all absolutely without foundation--not a life having been lost there since the day of Dr. Whitman's death.

Mr. Ogden will visit the Falls on Monday and give you every information in his power respecting the Indians of the Interior. The Cayuse, Walla Walla, Nez Perces, and Yakanias are said to have entered into an alliance for mutual defence.
In haste,
Yours respectfully,
JAMES DOUGLAS"

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Oregon Spectator January 20, 1847

"Clear Water, Dec. 10th, 1847
Mr. McBean:
My Dear Sir--Will you have the kindness to lend me four blankets? Give two of them to these men, one to each. The five you had the kindness to let me have, were among the goods plundered at Waiilatpu. Please to send also 10 shirts, 10 lb. tobacco, 12 scalpers and 20 awls. I am in great need of these things to pay for moving my property and family up the Valley, some 10 miles where the Nez Perces are camped. I reached home on foot, travelling six nights, suffering from hunger, cold and sore feet. Mr. Canfield escaped wounded and reached this place three days before me. There are here 5 Americans, 2 Frenchmen and my family, except by daughter, who is yet at Waiilatpu. Please let me know about the women and children and give other information. These people have pledged to protect me if we will do all we can to make peace, to prevent the Americans from coming up to avenge the late deaths. We have agreed to do so, and hope you will have the goodness to send to Governor Abernethy and request for sake of our lives, that they will keep quiet. Should the Americans come up I think would prove our ruin and involve the country in war. We beg you to keep quiet. The Nez Perces wish to have peace continued. Could Mr. Grant come to see us it would be a great relief.

May the God of peace protect us and stay the work of blood.
Yours in love,
H.H. Spalding"

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Oregon Spectator Jan 20, 1848

"Oregon City, Oregon Thursday, Jan. 20, 1848
THE MASSACRE AT WAIILATPU
After the extreme solicitude that has filled the public minds since intelligence of the horrible butchery at Waiilatpu for the survivors of the melancholy affair--those helpless women and children--it is with feelings of pain and pleasure that we announce their deliverance from captivity and safe arrival in our midst. The pleasure incident to their rescue from danger and captivity is [word faded] however, the the painful intelligence that a portion of them have been subjected to further outrage and insult-- the basest--the deepest that can possibly be conceived, and from which our mind recoils with horror. In our career as a public journalist, for the last five years, we have never shrunk from our duty, in recording events howsoever painful and abhorrent to our feelings, but in this case our pen refuses--we dare not chronicle the terrible story of their wrongs.

Pity for the poor sufferers--for the grieviously injured; let there be, for them at least, an oblivion of the past; let human kindness assiduously strive to assuage the bitterness of the pang and again replune the spirit that has been crushed in the violation of its honor.

But for the barbarian murderers and violaters; let them be pursued with unrelenting hatred and hostility, until their life blood has atoned for their infamous deeds; let them be hunted as beasts of prey; let their name and race be blotted from the face of the earth, and `the places that once knew them, know them no more forever'. Oh, how terrible should be the retribution. There are no mitigating circumstances. They knew the enormity of their conduct. Their unpardonable insult was achieved with the coolest determination and the most unmistakable intention. They let the knife be bared and in throwing away the scabbard, let the cry be `[3 faded words] and the knife up to the hilt'.

Peter Skene Ogden, Esq. Chief Factor of the H.B.C., reached this place on Wednesday evening, accompanied by the survivors of the Massacre, whom his courageous energy and indefatigable efforts had delivered from fearful servitude. Thanks would seem but a trifling recompense for such distinguished service. To him we are indebted for our principle information and the various documents subjoined.

Mr. Ogden arrived at Walla Walla on the 19th of December last, having accomplished the journey from Fort Vancouver in ten days. Immediately upon his arrival at Fort Nez Perces, in the evening, and during the second day, he despatched couriers to call a meeting of the Cayuse Chiefs; on the third day in the evening Two Chiefs arrived accompanied by about thirty men--Cayuses. The council assembled on the 23d ult., in which the several speeches were made, the substance of which will be found appended. The council continued until late at night and was concluded upon the savages agreeing to deliver up the captives within six days, on the promise of a ransom being paid for them. In the intermediate time speeches were made to the Nez Perces in regard to the surrender of Mr. Spaulding. During this space of time Mr. Ogden suffered considerable anxiety of mind, fearing from the various reports in circulation and constantly reaching the Fort, that the attempt had been fruitless and that the prisoners would not be restored.

On the evening of the 29th ult. a few of the principal men of the Cayuses arrived at the Fort, bringing with them the captives, who with some of their property, were conveyed in five wagons. Every preparation had been made to receive them so far as the limited means of the post would allow, and sure we are that the hospitalities extended on the occasion were the source of as much pleasure to the gentlemen of the Hudson's Bay Company as to the numerous recipients thereof. The day after the restoration, the promised ransom was paid and many speeches followed. A day or two thereafter brought Indian reports of the arrival of our troops at the Dalles, and the excitements consequent thereupon, among the Indians, was so great that Mr. Ogden assures us, that it was his firm conviction that had not the women and children been given up, they undoubtedly would all have been murdered. At the same time Mr. Ogden could make no downward movement in consequence of having pledged himself to await the arrival of Mr. Spalding and family who happily made their appearance on the ensuing Saturday evening, escorted by a formidable body of Nez Perces. The greater part of that night was passed in council with these Indians, and on the following morning the line of departure was taken up for Fort Vancouver, the safety of the party, and their arrival at which place, was first communicated by the subjoined letter from James Douglas, Esq. which was received on Sunday week and its gratifying contents imparted to the congregation of the Methodist church.

We have received considerable other information relative to this melancholy affair but so desultory in character that we hardly think it worth while at present to give it publication. One of the most horrible circumstances of the tragic event is, that of the two men who were prostrated by sickness at the time of the massacre, and nine days afterward dragged from their beds, killed and mangled in the most shocking manner. This shows plainly that there had been no reaction of feeling after the first massacre--nothing like regret for what had been done. There will be many painfully interesting incidents, doubtless, hereafter to be told of this terrible tragedy--of intense suffering and hair breadth escapes--but the force of circumstances will prevent us from telling them; may they find a more efficient chronicler. We cannot close however, without alluding to the surprising escape of our friend Mr. Stanley, the Artist, who was returning from the mission of Walker and Eels, and on the day of the massacre encamped on Snake River. Two days after the sad event he reached, within less than two miles of Waiilatpu, before he was apprised of it, when he took the trail to the Fort, where he arrived in safety-- having encountered in his unarmed condition, but one of the murderous villians, who, by ready stratagem he succeeded in getting rid of. Messrs. Walker and Eels, whose Mission is situated in the `Spokan' country, it is thought are not in danger in the event of it however, they will, of course, fall back, up on Fort Colville, the nearest place of safety. It is intended we understand, to discontinue the Catholic mission among the Cayuses, for the present."

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Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848

"Clear Water, Dec. 10, 1847,
To the Bishop of Walla Walla, or either of the Catholic Priests,

Reverend and Dear Friend, this hasty note may inform you that I am yet alive, through the astonishing mercy of God, the hand of our merciful God brought me to my family, after 6 days and nights from the time my dear friend furnished me with provisions and I escpaed from the Indians. My daughter is yet a captive I fear, but in the hands of our kind heavenly father--two Indians have gone for her.

My object in writing principally is to give information through you to the Cayuse, that it is our wish to have peace, that we do not wish Americans to come from below to avenge the wrong; we hope the Cayuse and Americans will be on friendly terms, that Americans will no more come into their country, unless they wish it. As soon as these men return, I hope if alive to send them to the Governor, to prevent Americans coming up to molest the Cayuse for what is done.

I know that you will do all in your power for the relief of the captive women and children at Waiilatpu, that you will spare no pains to appease and quiet the Indians.--There are 5 Americans here, my wife and three children, one young woman and two Frenchmen. We cannot leave the country without help. Our hope, under God, is in your hands and the hands of the H.H.B. Co. Can help come from that source? Please let this be known to the H.H.B. Co. Ask their advice and let meknow. I am certain that should Americans attempt to come, it would be likely to prove the ruin of us all in this upper country, and would involve the country. God grant that they will not attempt--At this moment I have obtained permission of the Indians to write more, but have but a moment. Please send this or copy to Governor Abernethy. The Nez Perces held a meeting yesterday; they pledged to protect us from the Cayuse if we would prevent the Americans from coming up to avenge the murders. This we have pledged to do, and for this we beg for the sake of our lives at this place and at Mr. Walkers. By all means keep quiet; send no war report, send nothing but proposals of peace. They say they have buried the death of the Walla Walla Chief's son killed in California? They wish us to bury this offence. I hope to write soon direct to Gov. Abernethy, but as yet the Indians are not willing, but are willing that I should send these hints through you. I hope you will send by all means and with all speed, to keep quiet in Willamette. Could Mr. Grant come this way, it would be a great favour to us and do good to the Indians--I just learn that these Indians wish us to remain in the country as hostages of peace--They wish the communication for Americans to be kept open. We are willing to remain so if peace can be secured. It does not seem safe for us to attempt to leave the country in any way at present. May the God of heaven protect us and finally bring peace. These two men go to make peace, and when they return if successful with the Cayuse they will to to Willamette.

We have learned that one man escaped to Walla Walla, was crossed over the river and went below, he would naturally suppose that all were killed; besides myself, another white man escaped wounded, and reached my house 3 days before I did. Late Indian report says that no women except Mrs. Whitman or children killed, but all are in captivity. This people, if the Cayuse will consent, will bring them all to this place--I travelled only nights and hid myself days, most of the way on foot as my horse escaped from me--suffered some from cold, hunger and sore feet, had no shoes as I threw my boots away not being able to wear them, also left blanket, God in mercy brought me here. From the white men who escaped and from Indians we learn that an Indian from the States who was in the employ of Dr. Whitman, was at the head of the bloody affair, helped demolish the windows and take the property. We think the Cayuse have been urged on to do the dreadful deed. God in mercy forgive them for they know not what they do.

Perhaps these men can bring horses and things. Please give all the particulars you have been able to learn and what news have gone below. How do the women and children fare? How extensive is the war? In giving this information and by sending this letter below to Governor Abernethy you will oblige your afflicted friend.

I would write directly to the Governor, but the Indians wish me to rest till they return.

Yours in affliction and with best wishes,
H.H. SPALDING"

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Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848

"Fort Nez Perces, Dec 23, 1847
Rev. Mr. Spalding,

Dear Sir--I have assembled all the chiefs and addressed them in regard to the helpless situation of yourself and the rest at Waiilatpu, and I have got them to consent to deliver them all to me: Yourself and those with you, save the two Canadians who are safe enough among the Indians. And have now to advice you to lose no time in joining me, at the same time bear in mind sir, you have no promise to make them or payments to make; once more use all the diligence possible to overtake us.

Yours truly,
P.S. OGDEN"

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Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848
"Clear Water, Dec. 25, 1847
To Peter Ogden, Esq.

My Dear Sir, your kind favour of 26 inst. came to hand this evening, it gives us great joy to learn that you are about to rescue the captives at Waiilatpu, may the Lord enable you to land them safe at Vancouver. This people are unwilling that I should leave their country and I have promised to return and live with them provided the melancholy affair at Waiilatpu can be settled and the Nez Perces continue friendly to the whites and keep their hands clean from blood and plunder.

I shall make all expedition to collect my horses, pack up and be off, God willing I hope to be at Walla Walla next Saturday, Mr. Craig and two Frenchmen stop in the country, our company therefore will consist of Mrs. Spalding and myself and three children, Miss Johnson, Messrs. Hart, Jackson and Canfield.

I hope our little daughter has recovered her health and that through the interposing mercy of God we shall yet meet in the land of the living. Should you find it to be your duty to leave before we can come I desire that she may remain at the fort.

Your obedient servant,
H.H. SPALDING

P.S. I have just learned from the two who returned that the Cayuse have resolved should they learn that the Americans purpose to come up to arrange the death of those who have been massacred,that they will immediately fall upon myself and family and the other Americans in the country and kill all. If it is possible for you to delay till we arrive, it may be the means of saving our lives. Should you leave before, they may feel no restraint. Moreover if a few of your men come and meet us we should deem it a great favour and it would be great protection. We throw ourselves upon your good judgement.

May the God of peace protect and deliver us all in safety at your fort.

Your very truly,
H.H. SPALDING"

*****
Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848

"Fort Nez Perces, Dec. 31, 1847
Rev. E. Walker,
My dear sir, Mr. Stanley has promised to give you a recital of the melancholy massacre of the worthy Doctor and his wife and nearly all the inmates of the mission.

On receiving this account at Vancouver, and that many unfortunate individuals were still remaining--the following day I started with 16 men and reached this place on the 12th. inst. and since that period have been employed in rescuing the captives and have succeeded in securing all that were taken prisoners, and shall now take my departure tomorrow for Vancouver in effecting this humane object, I have endured many an anxious hour and for the last two nights have not closed my eyes, but thanks to the Almighty I have succeeded. During the captivity of the prisoners they have suffered every indignity, but fortunately were well provided with food. I have been enabled to effect my object without compromising myself or others, and it now remains with the American Government to take what measures they deem most beneficial to restore tranquility to this part of the country,and this I apprehend cannot be finally effected without blood being made to flow freely.--So as not to compromise either party, I have made a heavy sacrifice of goods; but these indeed are of trifling value compared to the unfortunate beings I have rescuedfrom the hands of these murderous wretches and I feel truly happy, let this suffice for the present.

On my arrival at the Dalles, Mr. Hindmans mission, the previous day, had been plundered of four horses in open day and in the presence of all the inmates of the mission, and on consulting me on the property, I advised him to move, leaving a trusty Indian on whom he could rely, and who speaks the English language, to remain in charge of the establishment, and he would have started the same day I left it. I trust this arrangement will meet your approbation, under existing circumstances could not conscientiously give any other.

Yours truly,
P.S. OGDEN"

*****
Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848

"MR. OGDEN'S ADDRESS:
To the most influential chief's in behalf of the American families, kept as hostages and prisoners by them. I regret to observe that all the chiefs I asked for are not present, two being absent. I expect the words I am about addressing you will be repeated to them, and your young men on your return to your camp.

It is now thirty years we have been among you; during this long period we have never had an instance of blood being spilt until the inhuman massacre which has so recently taken place. We are traders and a different nation to the Americans; but recollect we supply you with ammunition not to kill the Americans. They are of the same colour as ourselves, speak the same language,children of the same God--and humanity makes our hearts bleed,when we behold you using them so cruelly! Besides this revolting butchery, have not the Indians pillaged, ill-treated the Americans and insulted their women when peaceably making their way to the Willamette? As chiefs, ought you to have connived at such conduct on the part of your young men? Was it not rather your duty to use your influence to prevent it? You tell me the young men committed these deeds without your knowledge. Why do we call you Chiefs? If you have no control over your young men,if you allow them to govern you; you are a set of Hermaphrodites, and unworthy of the appellation of men of Chiefs. You young hot-headed men, I know that you pride yourselves upon your bravery and think no one can match you. Do not deceive yourselves. If you get the Americans to commence once, you will repent it, and war will not end until every man of you is cut off from the face of the earth.

I am aware that a good many of your friends and relations have died through sickness--the Indians of other places have shared the same fate. It is not Doctor Whitman that has poisoned them; but God has commanded they should die. We are weak mortals and must submit, and trust you will avail yourselves of the opportunity and in so doing it may prove advantageous to you but at the same time remember you alone will be responsible for the consequences. It is merely advice I give you. I hold forth nopromise should war be declared against you. We have nothing to do with it. I have not come here to make you promises or hold out your quarrels. We remain neutral. On my return if you wish it I shall do all I can for you, but I do not promise you, to prevent war. If you deliver me up all the prisoners I shall pay you for them on their being delivered; but let it not be said among you afterwards that I deceived you. I and Mr. Douglas represent the Company, but I tell you once more we promise you nothing.--We sympathize with these poor people and wish to return them to their friends and relations by paying you for them. My requests in behalf of the families concerns you, so decide for the best."

*****
"THE YOUNG CHIEF'S (Tawatoe) REPLY
I rise to thank you for your good words. You white Chiefs command obedience with those that have to do with you. It is not so with us. Our young men are strong headed and foolish. Formerly we had experience, good chiefs, these are laid in the dust.--The descendants of my Father, are the only good Chiefs. Though we made war with other Tribes yet we always looked and ever will look upon the whites as our brothers.--Our blood is mixed with yours. My heart bleeds for the deaths of so many good Chiefs I have known. For the demand made by you the old Chief Teloquoit is here, speak to him; as regards myself I am willing to give the families up."

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"TELEQUOIT'S REPLY
I have listed to your words. Young men do not forget them. As for war, we have seen little of it, but our fathers know something of it. We know the whites to be our best friends who have all along prevented us killing one another, that is the reason why we avoid getting into a war with them, and why we do not wish to be separated from them. Besides the tie of blood, the whites have shown us a convincing proof of their attachment to us by burying their dead along side of ours. Chief! your words are weighty--Your hairs are grey! We have known you a long time. You have had an unpleasant trip to this place. I cannot therefore keep these families back, I make them over to you, which I would not do to another younger than yourself."

*****
"SERPANT JAUNES' REPLY
I have nothing to say: I know the Americans to be changeable, still I am of the same opinion as the young chief the whites are our friends and we follow you advice; I consent to your taking the families.

Mr. Ogden here addressed two Nez Perce Chiefs in behalf of Rev. Mr. Spalding and party; that they should be delivered to him on being paid, and spoke to them at length; the result was that both Chiefs (James and Himinilpile) promised to bring them provided they were willing to come and immediately started to effect the same having a letter from Mr. Ogden to Rev. Mr. Spalding."

*****
Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848

"(TRANSLATION)
To His Excellency, George Abernethy, Governor of Oregon Territory.

Please to your Excellency,--The Cayuses, in a moment of despair, have committed acts of atrocity, which without doubt, you must have learned already, and which I am certain must have grieved you as much as it has afflicted me.

They have massacred Dr. Whitman, his wife and the Americans who lived with him.

Mr. Brouillet, vicar general of this Mission, who went to Waiilatpu, arrived there on Tuesday evening, and therefore the first time heard the painful intelligence. On Wednesday he had the dead bodies clothed and buried, and before starting demanded of the Indians not to harm the women and children, whose fate had not been decided. But he could obtain no assurance that this demand would be complied with, as the chiefs were not present. After his arrival here, and, as soon as I had been informed of what had happened, I instantly sent for the two chiefs, whose lodges are near my house.

After having made known to them, without delay, how much I was grieved in consequence of the commission of such an atrocious act, I told them that I hoped the women and children would be spared until they could be sent to the Willamette.

They answered,--We pity them, they shall not be harmed,--they shall be taken care of as before.--

I have since had the consolation to learn that they have been true to their word and that they have taken care of these poor people.

A few days afterwards, I do not know under what pretext, two other Americans who were sick, were also massacred.

On the arrival of the Chiefs Sahaptin, Trumilpilp and Sepianahtkeit (Nez Perces), I was enabled to make new efforts to save not only the women and children, but also the Rev. Mr. Spalding, his family and the Americans at his station. After an interview with the chiefs separately, I succeeded in gathering them in council, which was held yesterday, and lasted four hours and a half, which accompanies the present will show you the result. It is sufficient to state that all these speeches went to show that since they had been instructed by the whites they abhorred war, and that the tragedy of the 29th had occurred froman anxious desire for self preservation--and, it was the reports made against the Doctor and others which led them to commit this act. They desire to have the past forgotten, and to live in peace, as before.

You excellency has to judge of the value of the document which I have been requested to forward to you nevertheless, without having the least intention to influence one way or the other. Ifeel myself obliged to tell you that by going to war with the Cayuses, you will undoubtedly have all the Indians of this country against you. Would it be the interest of a young colony to expose herself? But that you will have to decide with your council.

Mr. Spalding's letter, which I have the honor to forward to you, merits consideration.

Receive the assurance of the high consideration with which I am
You Excellancy's
Very humble and most ob't serv't
Aug. Mage. AEX BLANCHET
Bishop of Walla Walla
Youmatilla, 21st. Dec. 1847

*****
"(TRANSLATION)
The principal Chiefs of the Cayuses in Council assembled, decided:--

That a young Indian who understands English and slept in Dr. Whitman's room heard the Doctor, his wife and Mr. Spalding express their desire of possessing the Indians lands and their animals.

He also states that Mr. Spalding had said to the Doctor: "Hurry give medicines to the Indians, that they may soon die."

That the same Indian told the Cayuses, if you do not kill the Doctor soon you will all be dead before spring.

That they buried six Cayuses on the following Sunday the 28th of November, and three the next day.

That the Schoolmaster, Mr. Rodgers, stated to them before he died that the Doctor, his wife and Mr. Spalding poisoned the Indians.

That for several years past they had to deplore the death of their children and that they according to these reports, were led to believe, that the whites had undertaken to kill them all.

That these are the motives, which made them to kill the Americans.

The same Chiefs ask at present:
1st. That the Americans may not to war with the Cayuses.
2d. That they may forget the lately committed murders, as the Cayuses will forget the murder of the Son of the great Chief of Wallawalla, committed in California.
3d. That two or three great men may come up to conclude peace.
4th. That as soon as these great men have arrived and concluded peace, they may take with them all the women and children.
5th. They give assurance that they will not harm the Americans before the arrival of these three great men.
6th. They ask, that the Americans may not travel any more through their country as their young men might do them harm.

Place of Tawatoe, Youmatilla
20th Dec. 1847

Names of the Chiefs: TILOKATE, CAMASPALO, TAWATOE, ACHEKAIA

Signed, L.P. Rosseau, D and G. Leclaire, S.D., witnesses

True copy, L.P.G. Rosseau, Missionary.

*****
Oregon Spectator January 20, 1848

Gives list of Men, Women and Children From Dr. Whitman's Mission and a List of property used in the exchange.

"LIST OF PROPERTY
Expended out of Nez Perces Outfit to Recover the American Families, &c.: 62 blankets, 3 pts.--63 Com. Cot. Shirts.--12 Com Guns.--600 loads Amunition, 37 lbs. Tobacco.--12 Flints.--

Received from Teloquoit--appertaining to the Mission, for the use of the captives: 7 oxen, small and large, 16 Bags Coarse Flour.
E.E. W. McBean

Roster of Victims of the Massacre
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