FEDERAL RELATIONS OF OREGON 219 1835 when he returned to New England by the way of the Sandwich Islands, after having lost a considerable portion of his means in the venture. Kelley's schemes were looked upon by many, perhaps most, people as absolutely wild, in view of the fact that Congress after so much discussion had decided to make no move regarding Oregon. Ridicule and scorn were heaped upon the "gentleman for whose talents and ambition his native land does not afford sufficient scope," 8 and who had "been employing his leisure in devising schemes to better the condition of his countrymen." He was undertaking a venture which had been repudiated even by the people of Missouri who, although "a little addicted to dirking and duelling" were not "destitute of humanity" and so would not see their fellow creatures perish without their expostulation. 9 He proposed to withdraw his fellow men from the haunts of civilization and lead them into a region of which the most conflicting reports were given ; he promised them wealth from trade in grain and lumber with Japan and South America, although in Japan only one port was open to foreign trade and that only to the Dutch, while South America was supplied with lumber which, under any circumstances, could be obtained more cheaply from Maine. Mr. Kelley promised lands to his dupes yet no title could be given, and it was against the laws of the United States for individuals to buy from the Indians. One of those who had been interested in Kelley's plans wrote the Secretary of War early in 1832 and received a response which he published in the Boston Courier. "The executive," wrote Cass, "can give no aid to individuals in their efforts to establish a colony upon the Oregon river," since the law made no provision for occupying the country or for negotiating with the Indians there, and Congress alone could give the requisite authority. 10 8 W. J. S. in New England Magazine, II, 123-32 (Feb. 1832). Se also by same writer article in II, 320-6 (Apr. 1832). 9 The St. Louis Republican* spoke disparagingly of Kelley's projects, and con- sidered that Missouri offered quite as good opportunities as Oregon. Niles' Regis- ter, 6, Aug., 1831. 10 Niles' Register, 28 July, 1832. After Oregon was organized as a terri- tory Kelley petitioned Congress for a grant of land in recognition of his services, but nothing was done. Globe, XXII, 92.
