Page:The History of Oregon Bancroft 1888.djvu/622

604 interring their dead, but would soon keep their promise. Canby then sent warning that unless they surrendered at once the troops would be sent against them, and Mary was sent once more to convey messages from Sconchin and Jack. The former affected surprise that the white officers should so soon be offended with them, and wished to know the names of those who sent the warning message; and Jack declared he desired peace or war at once, but preferred peace. There was little in his message, however, to indicate any degree of humility. On the contrary, he dictated the terms, which would leave him master of the situation, his people fed and clothed, and allowed to remain on Lost River, while he went forth free. Riddle and Toby, who interpreted the messages from the Modocs, saw in them a sinister meaning, and cautioned Canby.

The general, finding himself forced into a position where he must vindicate the power and righteousness of the government, and obey orders from the departments, had little choice. Either he must make war on the Modocs, which he was forbidden to do, or he must make peace with them, which was still doubtful. He chose to accept as valid the excuses for their want of faith, and went on making preparations for their reception at his camp on the 10th. Tents were put up to shelter them, hay provided for beds, and new blankets, with food and fire-wood furnished, besides many actual luxuries for the head men. On the day appointed, four wagons were sent, under the charge of Steele and David Horn, a teamster, to Point of Rocks on Klamath Lake, the rendezvous agreed upon; but no Indians appearing, after four hours of waiting the expedition returned and reported. Notwithstanding this, Canby telegraphed that he did not regard the last action of the Modocs as final, and would spare no pains to bring about the result desired; but might be compelled to make some movement of troops to keep them under observation. This was satisfac-