service to you. You will make The Dalles headquarters until further orders. Companies are still being formed throughout the country, and will be forwarded on to join you at The Dalles as they come in. Perhaps the hostile Indians may come down to meet you. Give them liberty to get close as you think they will venture before you commence operations. If you think there is any danger of a party of Indians attacking Fort Gilliam at the cascades, send as many men to protect it as you think will be necessary.
I remain, sir, you obedient servant,
{{right|George Abernethy,
Governor of Oregon Territory and Commander-in-Chief.
Col. C. Gilliam,
First Regiment Oregon Riflemen, The Dalles.
A little later the following letter and order were sent:—
Dear Sir: As Lieutenant Ross leaves this morning, I send the enclosed order. I do not know your situation with regard to the Indians, and must leave the field at your discretion, to act as you think most advisable. My reasons for retaining you at The Dalles is that the companies now forming and expected next week may join you; that the commissioners may also join you, and that you may send word on to the Indians that no friendly tribes will be attacked; that all you want is the murderers, and a restitution of stolen property. If they will bring the murderers down to The Dalles, and agree to make restitution for the property stolen and destroyed, let them know that our operations will cease, provided they, the chiefs, enter into a treaty to protect American citizens passing through their country. This, in substance, you might say to the chiefs every opportunity. I hope you may succeed in bringing this serious affair to a speedy, and to yourself, a praiseworthy end. I have full confidence that you will do all you can to protect friendly Indians. Keep a sharp lookout for Siletza without letting him know it.
I remain yours, George Abernethy,
Governor of Oregon Territory.
Col. C. Gilliam,
First Regiment Oregon Riflemen.
Sir: I have appointed Major Lee and Robert Newell commissioners to act with General Palmer, superintendent of Indian affairs, for the purpose of settling the present difficulty with the Indians in the upper country. I have ordered them to hold a council with the field officers of the army to decide on the steps necessary to be taken, as there should be entire unity between the officers and the
