For a time during the early settlement of this country peace and goodwill prevailed, only to be followed later by violent and relentless warfare.

A Christian people who have for two hundred years kept a race in bondage, deprived of the advantages of civilization and religion, owe them a debt of gratitude which it would seem ungenerous to withhold.

Our relations with the Indians have been governed chiefly by treaties and trade, or war and subjugation.

Whether or not our system of Indian management has been a success during the past ten, fifty, or hundred years is almost answered in the asking.

These are hallowed moments, when every American has reason to express his gratitude to Almighty God that it has been our good fortune to witness the light of this auspicious morn.

If we dismiss from our minds the prejudice we may have against the Indians we shall be able to more clearly understand the impulses that govern both races.

To illustrate to the Indians the advantages the white race had in the telephone I divided a body of warriors from Sitting Bull's camp into two parties and had them talk to each other over the telephone line.