ou now have will not be
interfered with, therefore anything you get in addition must
be a clear gain. The white man is bound to come in and open
up the country, and we come before him to explain the relations
that must exist between you, and thus prevent any trouble. You
say you have heard what the Commissioners have said, and how
you wish to live. We believe that men who have lived without
help heretofore can do it better when the country is opened
up. Any fur they catch is worth more. That comes about from
competition. You will notice that it takes more boats to
bring in goods to buy your furs than it did formerly. We think
that as the rivers and lakes of this country will be the principal
highways, good boatmen, like yourselves, cannot fail to make a
good living, and profit from the increase in traffic. We are
much pleased that you have some cattle. It will be the duty
of the Commissioners to recommend the Government, through the
Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs, to give you cattle
of a better breed. You say that you consider that you have a
right to say something about the terms we offer you. We offer
you certain terms, but you are not forced to take them. You
ask if Indians are not allowed to make a bargain. You must
understand there are always two to a bargain. We are glad you
understand the treaty is forever. If the Indians do as they are
asked we shall certainly keep all our promises. We are glad to
know that you have got on without any one's help, but you must
know times are hard, and furs scarcer than they used to be.
Indians are fond of a free life, and we do not wish to interfere
with it. When reserves are offered you there is no intention
to make you live on them if you do not want to, but, in years
to come, you may change your minds, and want these lands to
live on. The half-breeds of Athabasca are being more liberally
dealt with than in any other part of Canada. We hope you will
discuss our offer and arrive at a decision as soon as possible.
Others are now waiting for our arrival, and you, by deciding
quickly, will assist us to get to them."

KEENOOSHAYO: "Have you all heard? Do you wish to accept? All who
wish to accept, stand up!"

WENDIGO: "I have heard, and accept with a glad heart all I have heard."

KEENOOSHAYO: "Are the terms good forever? As long as the sun shines
on us? Because there are orphans we must consider, so that there
will be nothing to be thrown up to us by our people afte