Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
E. S. PARKER,
Commissioner.
A. B. Meacham, Esq.,
Supt. Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon.
Office Supt. Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon, May 30, 1870.
Chas. Lafollette, Agent Grand Ronde:—
Sir,—Mr. Tillottson reported to this office on yesterday. We have decided to proceed with the saw-mill as soon as you can have Indian laborers to assist. It is desirable that we push this enterprise, and, in order to do so, it would seem necessary for you to “call in” enough to make a gang of say twenty workingmen; and as soon as this is done notify Mr. Tillottson at Dallas. I have ordered all the tools required to be forwarded to you at Dayton; and have no doubt they will be awaiting your orders. I think you can send immediately without fear of disappointment. In the mean time you will arrange subsistence for the Indian with my parties. It would be well also to assist Mr. Tillottson about a boarding-place. My arrangement is, that “the mechanics are to board themselves” with him; he to have the entire control of the works, we to furnish the laborers. When he is dissatisfied with the services, to certify to the time through your office, and forward to me for payment. I think it best not to transfer funds until an answer is obtained from the commissioner in regard to diverting the funds. We cannot expend or anticipate a fund not yet remitted, as I find a rule laid down to that effect. If we meet with a favorable reply we will then proceed with the flouring-mill. You
may find employment, while waiting for tools for Mr. Reinhart, at such wages as you may agree upon. Hoping you will give this enterprise sufficient attention to secure success, etc.,
I am respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
A. B. MEACHAM,
Supt. Indian Affairs, Oregon.
Office Supt. Indian Affairs, Salem, Oregon, Dec. 19, 1874.