Unknown to G. M. Hanson, May 18, 1862

DEAR SIR: Lam requested by a number of individuals to write you at this time. Thereis a good deal of feeling manifested by the citizens, especially in Smith River Valley, in relation to the Indians. We learn by passengers per steamer Panama that the tug-boat at Humboldt will brine up in a few days 200 more Indians—as they say, Indians that have been captured, not disposed to peace. The people in the valley are feeling alarmed. I learned the other day they were making preparations to build a fort in case of an emergency. The people were expecting you up on this steamer. If you think the United States Government will not purchase the valley do not send any more Indians, for if an outbreak would happen there would be hardly men enough left to protect themselves. There seems to be a strong feeling in our midst that the valley will never be purchased by the Government. If you have any doubts upon that subject do not send any more Indians. Please write per return steamer.