Page:The History of Oregon Bancroft 1888.djvu/626

608 cunningly remarked that the Modocs might surrender that day. Roseborough being deceived into thinking that they so intended, Toby Riddle was immediately sent to Jack with a message encouraging him in this purpose. The proposition was not only declined, but in such a manner that on her return Toby assured the commissioners and General Canby that it would not be safe for them to meet the Modocs in council. This information was lightly treated by Canby and Thomas, but was regarded as of more consequence by Meacham and Dyar. Jack had succeeded in allaying the apprehensions of treachery once entertained by Canby, by his apparently weak and vacillating course, which appeared more like the obstinacy of a spoiled child than the resolution of a desperate man. The military, too, were disposed to regard Jack's attachment to the region about Tule Lake as highly patriotic, and to see in it something romantic and touching. These influences were at that critical juncture of affairs undermining the better judgment of the army.

On the morning of the 8th of April Jack sent a messenger to the commissioner to request a meeting at the council-tent, the former to be accompanied by six unarmed Modocs. But the signal-officer at the station overlooking the lava-beds reporting six Indians at the council-tent, and twenty more armed in the rocks behind them, the invitation was declined. Jack understood from this rejection of his overtures that he was suspected, and that whatever he did must be done quickly. If the truth must be told, in point of natural sagacity, diplomatic ability, genius, this savage was more than a match for them all. His plans so