Unknown, April 20, 1861

MAJOR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding the department, that in consequence of Indian troubles existing in the valley, on the 8th instant I sent for the head Indian chiefs of all the ranches in this valley and informed them that they must deliver up to me all the fire-arms in their possession, and I gave them four days to bring them to this post. On the day appointed several of the chiefs came to the post bringing a few rifles. Learning from an Indian who had had some considerable difficulty with some others of his race that there [were] more among the tribes, I dismissed the chiefs, informing them that I was aware they had more arms in their possession, and if they were not brought in at once I would send the men of my command over and take them. For several days the Indians came in, one or two at a time, bringing their arms, until I think I have them nearly all collected from these Indians that live in this valley. The excitement among the Indians has been great, and they seemed disposed not to surrender their guns without a struggle, inasmuch as these arms are their greatest wealth. Although I did not apprehend an attack from the Indians, I took the necessary precaution by issuing ammunition to my men and doubling my guards. I think that so long as a considerable force remains here there will be no trouble with the Hoopas for some time; but should the troops (or a large portion of them) be withdrawn from here I am apprehensive that the Indians may commit depredations upon the property of the whites. The white inhabitants of this valley are much excited, and from their Jong acquaintance with the Hoopa Indians apprehend trouble. The citizens of the valley are at present engaged building a block-house, and I know if these troops be withdrawn the families will leave the valley for the bay. After delivering up their arms the Indians living in two of the principal ranches on the Trinity River left the valley, takin g with them most of their arms, a supply of provisions, and all their movable goods. The whites feel insecure without the presence of a large military force, and many families speak of moving should the troops, or any considerable number of them, be ordered out of the valley. From all the information I can gain, there are at least 1,500 Indians living within a circle of ten miles from this valley, whilst the white population amounts only to about thirty men, of whom three have families. The principal chief is disposed to friendship. The last lot of arms brought in to me numbered some seven or eight. Some thirty Indians were with the old Mowhema at the time. The old man said he did not wish to fight, he was too old. He wanted to be buried where all his tribe were buried. He tries to control the younger bucks, but I am sorry to say with but little success. I would communicate more fully upon the state of Indian affairs in this valley, but owing to my bad health I am hardly able to attend to the duties either of the bureau or field. For several days past I have hardly been able to leave myroom. I am the only commissioned officer with this command, and there is no physician, either civil or military, residing nearer this post than Arcata, Humboldt Bay, about forty miles distant. I am, major,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,