A PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT 247
"I have not refused supplies to the signers, but the authors need expect no more favors from me," answered Dr. McLoughlin, in a tone that made the household tremble.
"Then, as we had nothing to do with it, you can let us have Indian goods on the credit of the United States for our journey up the Columbia, can you not? " persisted the subagent.
"I am astonished that you think of going up there among those excited Indians," roared the doctor, looking hard at the venturesome four. Dr. McLoughlin's usual tone was low and slow. This thunderous key he sometimes used to his servants in reproof or command, never before to Americans.
"Not all the people of the valley signed that paper, Dr. McLoughlin. Not all of them approved of it. It was puerile and childish. I shall tell the commissioner of Indian affairs in my next report that if any one not connected with the fur company had been at half the pains and expense that you have been to to establish a claim at the Willamette Falls, there would have been few to object. Under the Joint Occupancy Treaty you have as good a right as they."
This statement quite mollified the doctor's wrath. " I thought my character as an honest man was beyond suspicion, but when I heard of those charges, well, really, really, the citizens themselves are the best judges if I have injured them or not."
The governor seized a pen and hastily scribbled some orders.
"Here, Roberts! McTavish! Let the gentlemen have whatever they want. God bless you, gentlemen, God bless you. May your errand succeed."
Mrs. Whitman joined them at the Dalles. Rogers,
