The Great Chief Sends Word (Chief Steathl's Testament)

16pp, stapled booklet in stiff card covers. Illustrated with line drawings. Card covers a little worn at edges, slightly darkened around spine. Internally neat, clean, bright and tight. 8vo. Chief Seathl's speech in 1855 was made in the Salish language and was recorded in note form by Dr Henry Smith, a member of the Commission to agree settlement regarding lands for native Americans. Thirty two years later, and after Chief Seathl's death, Dr Smith submitted an English transcript to the Seattle Star newspaper, admitting it was only a partial record of what was said. The version reproduced here is longer than the Seattle Star report, developing the themes of the original speech. It is not a verbatim transcription of the original but it is believed to be near enough to be worthy of Chief Seathl. The speech argues strongly for ecological responsibility and respect for Native American's land rights.