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of his action in leasing a house lot near Macy, on the Agency reserve without consulting the Council. He had secured authority from the Dept, and he thought he could ignore the tribe and go ahead and lease to whomever he pleased. I told him the property belonged to the tribe and the people should be consulted even if it were only a mere matter of form. He said he would submit the lease to the Council for approval but the resentment is strong and it looks as though Best might go deeper into the hot water. I approve of the resentment of the Council and I hope they will carry the matter to the Dept, and failing there, to take it to the comittees of both houses. It is true that the Omahas and other tribes show a strong objection to being treated like babys concerning their property. 

Best said he was not wedded to the position and wants to get away but is being held there by the Indian Office. He said the pay was too small for such responsibility. I hope the Council will stick to their resentment. The spoke up to Best, whom they called to the meeting. Taking moral courage from my presence they spoke freely and maintained their right