CHAPTER V.
POLICIES ON TRIAL—“ONEATTA.”
In the fall of 1866, the “Oregon Delegation,” in Washington, proposed the name of the author of this book for appointment as Superintendent of Indian Affairs in Oregon.
President Johnson, on inquiry, learned that he was not a “Johnson man,” and, of course, refused to make the nomination.
The recommendation of the author’s name was made without his solicitation or knowledge. On the accession of President Grant, the recommendation was renewed, the nomination was made and confirmed by the Senate of the United States; bonds filed, oaths of office administered, and notice given to my predecessor; and on the 1st of May, 1869, I assumed the duties of the office indicated.
The new administration had the Indian question in transit, between three policies: The old way, “Civil Service,” “The War Department Policy,” and General Grant’s “Quaker Policy.”
With good intention, doubtless, the several policies were put on trial.
Oregon superintendency and all its agencies were assigned to the tender care of the War Department policy, and I was ordered to turn over my office to an officer of the army, even before I had performed
an important official duty. Remonstrance was made by the people of Oregon against the change.