The inspection service is now under a new chief, Honorable E. B. Linnen. As a practical field-man of wide experience, he has selected a corps of competent men. Investigations are now carried on in a thorough manner, and incompetent persons removed, and not simply transferred, as in former times.
MOURNING THE DEAD
Photographed by Rev. Julius Jette, S. J., in a cabin at Nulato, Alaska, April, 1913
CONFERENCE OF INDIAN Y. M. C. A. STUDENTS AT DENVER, COLORADO
CHAPTER XXXVI. RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM FIELD WORKERS
Of the many correspondents who aided in the preparation of the table of statistics, there were large numbers who made most excellent recommendations. I have selected some thirty of these and herewith present them in order that they may be preserved. The writers are all persons of experience in Indian affairs. It will be observed that in many details, they do not agree, and yet they suggest, for the most part, sensible reforms. Practically every one of the entire correspondents had no criticisms to offer of the intentions of the Government, or Indian Office officials. A few criticized local officials with whom they came in contact. The following recommendations are not offered in controversial spirit, nor as a reflection on our able men at Washington. They are presented as the result of years of experience on the part of unselfish men and women, whose only aim is to see the Indian saved out of his troubles; simple justice meted out to him, and that he should take his place in American life as a real citizen.
“I never did in my private opinion approve of the allotment plan and never will. I am in favor of the old Roman style of civilizing; give the race or nation, for themselves, a large enough tract of land, facility for commercial opportunity, let them wrestle with their fate, pay a small tribute to the crown; if fit they will survive.
“Time will show the merits and demerits of the allotment system. The condition of the reservations was much better before this plan was inaugurated. Those who have tried to civilize any race or nation within twenty-four hours, figuratively speaking, have invariably failed. All history will support this statement.”
Correspondent, Beaulieu, Minn.