Thomas H Nelson to Hamilton Fish, April 26, 1872

No. 310. Mr. Nelson to Mr. Fish.

Sir: Herewith I inclose a copy and translation (A and B) of Mr. Mariscal’s reply of the 23d instant to my note of the 18th ultimo, upon the depredations of the Kickapoo Indians.

While Mr. Mariscal does not accede to my solicitude for the passage of American troops into Mexican territory in pursuit of marauding Indians, he nevertheless makes propositions, which may, I hope, facilitate the final settlement of the important subject in hand. He assures me that the government will lend efficient co-operation to the realization of the plan for the removal of the Kickapoos to their reservations in the United States. For this purpose it will direct its local authorities to participate in the conferences with those Indians, and will not allow the authorities, who are accused of having frustrated the attempt of last year, to have any share in the proposed conferences.

In case the Kickapoos freely consent to emigrate, the Mexican government will furnish troops to escort them to a designated place on the frontier; and, lest the agents employed in the unsuccessful attempt of last year may have unfortunately excited prejudices and suspicions in the minds of these Indians, the Mexican government suggests the propriety of other persons being selected for the proposed new attempt.

It appears to me that the proposal of the Mexican government deserves serious attention, and that, if approved, the necessary steps should be taken with as little delay as possible.

I am, &c.,