Page:The Early Indian Wars of Oregon.djvu/297

Rh During the pursuit Lane had been recognized by the chiefs, whom he had met in council the previous } r ear, who declaimed to him in stentorian tones across the river, complaining that white men on horseback had invaded their country, riding about freely everywhere; that they were afraid to lie down to sleep lest these intruding strangers should be upon them. Lane reminded them that on account of their conduct the intruders themselves enjoyed few opportunities for peaceful rest, and reproached them for breaking their treaty, on which they declared themselves tired of war and longing for peace. But Lane was no longer in his official capacity responsible for treaties, and Kearney, whose march to Benicia had so long been interrupted, would consent to no further delay, but in a few days took up the trail, carrying with him his thirty prisoners, there being no place of confinement in southern Oregon where they could be left, nor responsible men willing to escort them to the headquarters of the superintendent of Indian affairs.

He had not proceeded far when he met Lane about returning from a hasty visit to Shasta, and who, seeing Kearney's embarrassment, proposed himself to take charge of the prisoners, and deliver them either to Governor Gaines or the superintendent. This offer was gladly accepted, it being agreed that the prisoners should not be delivered up until they had consented to a permanent treaty of peace. The transferance of the captive women and children was accomplished by the aid of Lieutenant Irvine, who was attached to Williamson's topographical expedition in connection with the Pacific railroad surveys of the government, and Captain Walker of Kearney's command.

Having assumed the safe conduct of the prisoners, Lane at once proceeded north, and on the seventh of July delivered his charge to the governor, who had at last reached Rogue river, but only to find the troops gone, and not an Indian within reach. By means of the prisoners delivered