David Davis

“ The grant, in this case, was complete when the location was made, and the location is, in itself, evidence that the directions of the treaty on the subject were observed, and it cannot be presumed that the officers empowered to make the location violated their duty. Even if the agent neglected to annex a proper certificate to the roll of Indians entitled to the reservations, it is difficult to see how the Indians could be prejudiced by this neglect. ”

“ This treaty did not prove satisfactory, and the Indians asked, and the United States conceded to them, a limited quantity of land for a permanent home. This object could not be obtained if it were meant to give only an equitable title to the Indians. Such a title would soon become complicated by the encroachments of the white race; and that the Indians supposed they were providing for a good title to their 'reservations' is manifest enough, because they declare, in the second treaty, that they wish to have the management of their affairs in their own hands. ”

“ This objection cannot be sustained, for the certificate bears date the 2d March, 1849, and he was commissioned to hold the office of register 'during the term of four years from the 2d day of March, 1845.' The word 'from' always excludes the day of date. ”