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Many men, old men, steady men have said, "Under Monteith we are slaves." "We cannot live here if he comes back. No use to take land." Many have said they will leave the US. if he is forced on them, others shut their lips & their eyes gleam. Now this I have heard. The tribe awaits the [[result?]] of James Rubens plea in Washington. if he fails, they will go and ask Monteith to resign. if he refuses, then — no one will say what will happen — but a look that is not very pleasant comes in their faces. There is danger here. If Monteith suspects its power of presence he will call the Military & then there will be no comfort here. Looking at the case cooly, I cannot blame the Indians. They have appealed in every form, and they will try every peaceable means to rid themselves of the man they detest, but if all fails, they cannot be blamed if they take the law in their hands. White men would do so. Surely if the Pres't knew the feeling here, he would not force Monteith on these tribes, stop their progress, hurt them morally & socially, by so arbitrary an act.  There is an excellent man here Republican, & from Lewiston Edward McConville. He was an old soldier, he led the volunteers in the Nez Perce war, he is known, loved, & trusted by the people. He has been teaching here and at Salem School, he is now in charge of one of the schools, — put him in. — Everything becomes plain & calm —

Dear Captain it is no fear that prompts this letter. I am not afraid but advise that the Gov't shall not act blindly and injure a good trusting clan of people by holding on to one official. Do what you think but you know as an official I can speak to no one, but I have spoken to you in the cause of humanity & perhaps human life.

With sincere friendship
[[signature]] Alice C Fletcher. [[/signature]]