You might as well expect rivers to run backwards as any man born free to be contented penned up.

All men were made brothers. The earth is the mother of all people, and all people should have equal rights upon it. You might as well expect the rivers to run backward as that any man who was born free should be content when penned up and denied liberty to go where he pleases.

I will obey every law, or submit to the penalty.

It takes few words to tell the truth.

Lawyer acted without authority from our band. He had no right to sell the Wallowa country.

We were contented to let things remain as the Great Spirit Chief made them. They were not; and would change the rivers and mountains if they did not suit them.

Treat all men alike. Give them the same law. Give them an even chance to live and grow.