resistance to the just measures of white men. But perhaps the most effective speech of all was that made by McKay, who addressed the chiefs in their own tongue and picturesque style of oratory. He reminded them of the tragical death of his father, and of the many years he himself had spent among them, during which they had fought and suffered together, and enjoyed their peaceful sports in common. Now, however, he was growing old, and thinking to enjoy repose, had settled on a farm in the Willamette. But at a moment when all was quiet, the voice of his white brethren had aroused him, and he had come in haste to tell them, his former friends and associates, to be advised, and not to stop their ears, for the children of the great chief were as numerous as the stars in the heavens or the leaves on the trees, and they, who were not fools, as their advancement in learning showed, surely would not refuse to hearken to the voice of wisdom.
When McKay had ended, several of the leading chiefs replied, avowing friendliness toward the white men, and expressing their gratitude to the United States government for sending an agent to look after their welfare. White next proposed that for their better government and organization the Nez Percés elect a head chief, with authority to control the young men and punish them for wrong-doing, the sub-chiefs acting as his aids, each with a suite of five men to execute his orders. He also read to them, clause by clause, a code of laws which he suggested they should adopt.[1]
- ↑ Following are the offences named and penalties attached: Murder and purposely burning a dwelling, hanging. Burning an out-building, six months imprisonment, 50 lashes, and payment of damages. Burning property through carelessness, payment of damages. Entering a dwelling without permission of occupant, punishment left to the chiefs. Theft of property of the value of a beaver-skin or less, pay back twofold, and 25 lashes. Theft of property worth more than a beaver-skin, pay back twofold, and 50 lashes. Using another's horse or other property without permission, 20 to 25 lashes, as the chief directs, and payment for use of the horse. Injuring crops or fences, payment of damages, and 25 lashes. Only those travelling or living in the game country might keep a dog. If a dog kill a domestic animal, the owner must pay the
