This large congressional volume features the 305-page Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. Commissioner John Q. Smith describes Sitting Bull’s role in assembling a band of “desperadoes” that roamed freely and engaged in hostilities against other Indians as well as white settlers. He estimated this band to be 3,000 with 600 to 800 warriors. They were given one more chance to return to their reservations. When they failed to comply, the matter was turned over to the military. He reported that a General and Lieutenant General (presumably Terry and Custer) “were of the opinion that a movement against the ‘hostiles’ undertaken in the winter would be entirely practicable, for which none but the regular troops stationed in that part of the territory would be needed." The Commissioner acknowledged the “terrible slaughter of our forces under General Custer” and reported the hostilities have extended through the year. Custer’s battalion had about 210 troops. Even if the Indian Commissioner’s estimate of warriors was overestimated, Custer’s battalion was clearly outnumbered. The full volume is 766 pages. Hardbound in brown cloth with gilt title on spine.

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Condition: B+

Contents have pleasant light toning throughout with a few pencil notations in the margins. The final leaf of the commissioner's report (pp. 401-403) has been inserted. Front hinge is starting. Covers have light wear with a few small stains on the rear cover.