Independent Democrat

The following is the beautiful and appropriate reply of Col. J. F. H. Claiborne, Commissioner, to the speech of C. Cobb, the Choctaw Chief.

Brother.—The Commissioners appointed by your Great Father, the President of the United States, have heard your talk. Our ears are open. We like what you say. We know you to be a brave warrior and a wise man. The frost of years is upon your head, and ere long you must pursue your way to the land of shades. Many moons have passed since you first saw the light; many changes have taken place; many of your old friends and companions have gone the way of all the earth; but you never learned, to tell a lie. You are the child of truth.

Brother.—We have been up to the great Wigwam at Washington. It is a long way off. The track of the moccasin is not often seen there: but there is always a pipe burning for the Red man, and a blanket to keep him warm. The Great Chief has sent us here to do justice between the white man and the Choctaw. Both speak loud and he desires both to have their rights.

Brother.—The Great Spirit alone made the white and the Red man; his sun shines upon both; both live upon his bounty; both speak his language. The hunting grounds he made are wide enough for all. We come to set them right.

Brother.—We wish to see your people bring them up. The captains, the warriors, their wives and their children; the young and the old. Bid them not be afraid. But let them come like you and speak the truth, and not to talk with a forked tongue. Tell them, too, not to drink the fire water: evil spirits swim in it, and will lead them into dark and dreary ways where there is no game, and no light to guide their steps.

Brother.—Peace be with you and your people. May the Great Spirit smile upon you. May his sun shine and his dew-fall refresh the path of the Choctaw. May the white man, generous as his power, be your friend in peace, as you were his friend in war. May you all soon find the way to your brethren across the great father of waters, and when time shall be no longer may we all meet in the happy hunting grounds of the blessed.

Brother.—We have nothing more to say, and are now ready to take you by the hand.