Cherokee Agency East, February 28, 1838
Sir: I have asserted that there are in the Cherokee Nation East there are about 200 very old and infirm Indians among whom are some lame, blind, etc. who believe themselves unable to remove west with the tribe and wish to be permitted to remain, purchase land, settle, and reside in one neighborhood during their lives. Some of them wish that one or two of their young relatives may be suffered to remain with them.
I respectfully suggest to the department the propriety of granting these ages persons their request, as they in the course of nature cannot long remain here, and the young persons will emigrate as soon as their relatives die.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
Nat. Smith, Superintendent, Cherokee Removals
Office of Indian Affairs, March 24, 1838
Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 28th ultimo.
I have submitted the proposition in respect to the 200 old and infirm Cherokees being permitted to remain and become citizens, to the Secretary of War, and am directed to state, in reply, that no law forbidding such a course is known to this department; that if they wish to remain and are willing to submit to state laws, and are able to purchase land, it is presumed that no objection would be made in any quarter of their doing so.
Very etc.
C.A. Harris, Commissioner
