Hamilton Fish to Foster, April 12, 1875

No. 427. Mr. Fish to Mr. Foster.

Sir: I transmit a copy of a letter of the 8th instant and of the accompanying papers, addressed to this Department by the Secretary of the Interior. It will be observed that these relate to the embarrassments which Henry M. Atkinson has experienced in removing Lipan Indians from Mexico to their reservation in this country. From that gentleman’s statement it appears that the local authorities, at least, are averse to the measure, and are not indisposed actively to thwart it. This Department is reluctant to believe that the authorities at Mexico are insincere in their professions of good-will in the matter; but it is hoped that they may have control enough over the frontiersmen to cause their orders to be respected. It is difficult to see what substantial advantage Mexico can expect from keeping those Indians. So long as they stay there they are tempted to plunder and commit other acts of violence, not only upon Mexicans, but on our side, by the latter keeping up that irritation which it would obviously be wise to allay by all honorable means. On the contrary, if the savages are delivered to us to be disposed of pursuant to our policy, they are kept from harming others, and have a chance of materially benefiting their condition. You will make such representations on this subject to the Mexican government as may tend to facilitate the success of the measures which we desire.

I am, &c.,