On the 7th of February, he encloses an extensive list of books, which he wishes to procure, to aid him in his contemplated examinations of aboriginal subjects, with discriminating remarks on their character.  In calling my attention to a close examination of them in the various book-stores and libraries of the Atlantic cities, where they may be found, he imposes no light nor important labor.  “You know my general object is confined to the Indians of this quarter (the west).  Their particular history, however, will be preceded by a review of the condition of the Indians in this part of America, at the time it became known to Europeans.  I have myself little doubt but that they were then pretty much as they are now.

“There is, however, one historical event, the narrator of which represents the Indians to have been in an entirely different condition from what they are now, or have been since.  This is the account of Ferdinand de Soto’s expedition to Florida.  There are two historians of this expedition.  One is Garcilasso de la Vega, and the other is an anonymous gentleman of Elvas.  I believe both are found in Purchas or Hackluyt.  I believe the narrative is almost entirely fabulous.  One mode of ascertaining this is by an examination of the earlier accounts of the Indians.  If they agree with De Soto’s history, the latter may be correct.  If not, they must be unworthy of credit, more particularly in the amount of the Indian population, which was certainly greatly misrepresented by the Spanish historians, and which has been always overrated.

“If any of the above works touch upon these subjects, they may be useful to me; if not, I do not wish them.  Can you find any of the other Spanish writers describing or alluding to this expedition?

“Is there any account of the expedition of Pamphilo Narvaez into Florida in 1528?”

“Should I go to Prairie du Chien, would you not like the trip?  I see many reasons to induce you to take such a measure.  If you come on, as I hope you will, by the first boat, we can make all the necessary arrangements; for, if I go, I shall go early, certainly in May.  Unless I am greatly deceived, you would make something interesting out of the proposed treaty.”

Samuel S. Conant, Esq., informs me (January 21st) that he is making progress in his contemplated work on Indian biography.

“I shall read,” he says, “everything which speaks of Indians, and my enthusiasm may take the place of ability, and enable me to present not only honorable testimonials of Indian genius and valor, but some defence of their character, and an exposition of the slanders and vulgar errors which, through blind traditions, have obtained the authority of truth.”

“It would have pleased me,” says he (Feb. 16th), “to have presented Mr. Theodore Dwight, Jr., to you in person.  But this introductory note will do as well.  He is one of those who feel an interest, disinterested and benevolent, in the fate of the remnants of the Indian tribes, and wishes some conversation with you relative to their feelings on the subject of their removal west of the Mississippi.”