The Special Agent's Plea for Peace

Having been appointed special agent for the Indians of the Puget Sound District, I have thought it not improper to publish to you the general instructions and directions from the Governor and Superintendent of Indian affairs in our Territory. The duties of an Indian agent are arduous and frequently of a very delicate nature. The Indians have certain inalienable rights secured to them by law, and it is our duty, equally enjoined by law and ordinary humanity, to respect those rights. While it will be my aim to protect the Indians, it will also be required of me to restrain them within suitable limits. The secret infraction of the law prohibiting liquor to the Indians is the great cause of all the difficulties with them, and I earnestly call for your assistance in extirpating this most vicious practice. Whenever you become aware of such a violation, notify me of the facts and I will take immediate measures. It is also reported that it is not unusual for the Indians to receive liquor from some of the vessels visiting our Sound; this is equally a violation of law. I also recommend that whenever you hire an Indian for any length of time, you have a written agreement. The practice of punishing Indians for supposed wrongs committed by them without sufficient evidence is one frequently abused, and I desire that injuries of any importance be fully reported to the special Indian agent.