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April 15, 1946

Mr. Robert Yellowtail
Lodge Grass, Montana

Dear Bob:

I have just returned from Washington where I have been for the last two weeks. This is why I have not replied to your letter sooner.

While in Washington, I heard that you were due there and also got the same information in Chicago as I visited the Indian Office on my return to Oklahoma. I would like so much to have seen you and gone into your specific bills - as well as other matters of mutual interest.

If you get your bills introduced, let me know and I will be glad to do what I appropriately can.

I feel very hopeful about the Indian Claims Commission bill. While the vote in the House has been delayed, I believe that it will get to the Claims Commission bill in the near future - and that action thereon will be favorable. I might say, in passing, that the National Congress of American Indians, through interested members as yourself, has done some fine work on this bill. Also, the Confederated Womens' Club, the Farmers Union, The American Legion, and several non-Indian organizations interested in Indian affairs have contributed such to the advancement of this legislation.

Judge Johnson and I have been in touch, in one way or another, with most of the State delegations - and we will continue with this effort until the bill is voted  on.

Judge Johnson is thinking about calling the Executive Committee together for a meeting womewhere [[somewhere]] in Oklahoma during the first week in June. We will advice you more in detail regarding this in the near future. However, I may tell you that the purpose of this meeting will be to  take stock of the activities and commitments of the National Congress of American Indians - and to lay specific plans for the Annual Convention to be held here in Oklahoma during the latter part of August.

With all good wishes, I am

Sincerely yours,
BD:hc
cc Judge Johnson
Ben Dwight, Acting Executive Secretary
National Congress of American Indians