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.

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.

On the contrary, if they are treated with justice and humanity, proper example and the advantages of education given them, the coming years will be as bright and prosperous to the unfortunate race as the past has been dark and painful.

The more we study the Indian's character the more we appreciate the marked distinction between the civilized being and the real savage.

The intrusions of the white race and the non- compliance with treaty obligations have been followed by atrocities that could alone satisfy a savage and revengeful spirit.

It is unfair to suppose that one party has invariably acted rightly, and that the other is responsible for every wrong that has been committed.