HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
It was my purpose to dedicate, exclusively, these pages to my
beloved parents. What correctness of sentiment appears in this
book is mainly ascribable to a principle they endeavored to instil
into the minds of their children, that purity of heart and intellectual
attainment are never more appropriately exercised than in
promoting the good of our fellow-creatures.
Yet the sincere sentiments of respect and regard that I entertain
for you, the remembrance of the many acts of friendship
received from you during my residence at Fort Snelling, and the
assurance that you are ever prompt to assist and protect the
Indian, induce me to unite your name with those most dear to me
in this dedication.
An additional inducement is, that no one knows better than
yourself the opportunities that presented themselves to collect
materials for these legends, and with what interest these occasions
were improved. With whatever favor this little work may
be received it is a most pleasing reflection to me, that the object
in publishing it being to excite attention to the moral wants of the
Dahcotahs, will be kindly appreciated by the friends of humanity,
and by none more readily than yourself.
Very truly yours,
Mary H. Eastman.
New London, March 1st, 1849.
