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[[preprinted]] 272 [[/preprinted]]

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Clearwater river, thence westward to Lewiston Idaho, has a tendency to enhance the value of this tract. The proposed railroad will pass by or through the Langford claim, and the level patch of 21 acres at the mouth of the Lapwai, affords a good town site, the valley of this creek being a natural opening to the Clearwater for quite a region West of Craigs Mountain. In view of these facts it would be contrary to all previous experience in Indian matters, to assume that after the allotment of the Nez Perce Indians is complete, the Indians now living on this tract would be able to maintain their possession of their land in addition to their full allotments elsewhere. If this land is to be left "to be held by the Indians in common," it will be tantamount to taking it from the families who for over 50 years have lived and worked upon it, raising their crops, and supporting their families, by their industry, sending their children to school and listening to the teachings of the Missionary. The