Page:The Early Indian Wars of Oregon.djvu/516

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498
INDIAN WARS OF OREGON.

riors, with their families, to be sent to Walla Walla; the return of the property taken from Steptoe's command; consent that troops and other white men should pass through their country; the exclusion of the turbulent hostile Indians from their country, and a promise to engage in no hostilities themselves against white men. They were also required to be at peace with the Nez Percés, to which they cheerfully agreed, the whole treaty being written out and formerly signed; Polatkin, for the Spokanes, signing and smoking the peace pipe.

On the twenty-third, a council was held with the Spokanes, to which Kamiakin was invited; but he declined, fearing he might be selected to be sent to Walla Walla. The same terms were offered and accepted as had been accepted by the Cœur d'Alenes. After its conclusion, Owhi of the Yakimas came into camp, when Wright had him arrested for breaking his agreement made with him in 1856, and ordered him to send for his son Qualchin, telling him he would be hanged if Qualchin did not appear. Unexpectedly, the young chief rode into camp without being summoned and was hanged without trial. Owhi, attempting to escape on the return march when Wright was at Snake river, was shot by Lieutenant Morgan and died in an hour or two. Only Kamiakin and Skloom of the Yakima chiefs of any note were now left. Their influence was greatly lessened by the results of their previous acts. Kamiakin abandoned his country and people, going to British Columbia, whence he returned no more, and Skloom sank into obscurity.

As for the Palouses, Colonel Wright refused to treat with them, but instead had several of them hanged. Fort Taylor was abandoned on the first of October, and on the fifth the whole command returned to Fort Walla Walla.

On the ninth, Wright summoned the Walla Wallas into his presence. When they were assembled he ordered all those who had taken a part in the recent battles to stand up. Thirty-five standing up at once, he selected four who