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Dinsdale, Matthew / Matthew Dinsdale papers, 1836-1897: Folder 1
[Transcribed journal entries], pp. [1]-13
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Page 8
8. Indians had to make. I was very much interested with this interview between the government and the Indians. I became better acquainted with the mode of dealing of one and the character and state of the other. Imagine to yourself a temporary house made of boards nailed to posts with a roof of the same kind, dimensions about 18 feet by 22. In the centre was a stove In one corner against the only window sits at a table covered with paper etc. the Agent and his Secretary, beneath the table stood several kegs filled with money (silver) facing the stove forming a half circle sat the chiefs on the floor cross legged in turns smoking, talking, andlaughing behind them stood or sat other Ind-ians as lookers on. Along with others who felt some interest in "Indian affairs" you might have seen yourhumble servant stretched in Western as well as Eastern fashion upon a mat spread over bed clothes, listening, looking, and thinking. The head chief appears to be about 45 years old, he is a little below the middle size, spare of flesh, but with a good frame and is evidently an active man. He appears to be a good and fluent speaker. He always looks grave thoughtful, I do not remem-ber to have seen a smile play over his broad and strong featured face. The Indians' dress as to the fashion of it is similar to that of the Scotch soldier the material being different, the upper garment is generally made of printed callico the lower of buck skin, and a blanket is always worn over all. In the article of dress I discovered no difference between the chiefs and others. Some wear ornaments on ther head's and person's but they are not distinctive of rank. But frequently of wealth, for an Indian--if he is vain--and who is not? will carry all his treasure on his body. Some of the women wear very expensive and highly ornamen-ted apparel. I took the pains to go thro this temporary town which I
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