Page:The History of Oregon Bancroft 1888.djvu/585

 they had been notified of the point to which they were to be removed; but that in the mean time Jackson would be directed to take measures to protect the settlers, or to aid in the removal of the Modocs should force be required.

Alarmed by the delay in arresting Jack, a petition was forwarded to Governor Grover, requesting him to urge the superintendent to remove the Modocs, or authorize the organization of a company of mounted militia to be raised in the settlements for three months service, unless sooner discharged by the governor. In this petition they reiterated their former com plaint, that they had been harassed for four years by about 250 of these Indians, 80 of whom were fighting men. These latter were insolent and menacing, insulting their families, drawing arms upon citizens, and in one case firing at a house. They complained that the superintendent had turned a deaf ear, and unless the governor could help them there was no further authority to which they could appeal. Being scattered over a large area, it was to be feared that in case of an outbreak the loss of life would be heavy. Grover succeeded in procuring an order that Major Otis, with a detachment of 50 cavalry and their officers, should establish a temporary camp in Lost River district; but Canby refused to take any more active measures before the answer to the recommendation of the superintendent, with regard to a reservation in that country, should arrive from Washington.

Early in April Meacham was relieved of the superintendency, and T. B. Odeneal appointed in his place. One of his first acts was to take council of Otis in regard to the propriety of permitting Jack and his followers to remain any longer where they were,