We learn with gratification that it is at least rumored that
an expedition is about to be got up in Saint Louis, to
colonize the rich and interesting Territory of Oregon. To
such as have so laudable and advantageous an enterprise in
view, we are prepared and feel warranted in saying, that it
rests not upon "rumor" that many of our fellow-citizens of
upper Missouri intend emigrating to that highly celebrated
region next spring, and will no doubt be glad to be joined
by as many of the enterprising citizens of Saint Louis as
may think it their interests to join them.
We learn from the "Oregon Correspondence Committee" of this
place, that already they are beginning to receive names of
gentlemen desirous of joining the expeditions, and from
present indications, there seems to be no doubt remaining
that there will be quite a large company formed. Let not
those who now [have it?] in contemplation, draw back, but
steadily persevere, and they may confidently promise
themselves success. The country which they seek is no doubt
one of equal attraction and advantages as any on the globe,
and we rest assured that so soon as the number of
inhabitants will justify, the fostering hand of a
territorial government will be extended to it. Up then every
pioneer, and let your cry be "Onward!"--_Western
Missourian._
* * * * *
From the _Ohio Statesman_, March 7, 1843.
LETTER FROM AN OREGON EMIGRATION AGENT TO A FRIEND AT
PITTSBURG.
WASHINGTON CITY, February 21, 1843.
DEAR SIR: Nothing of importance has transpired in Congress
since my last. I am informed by members of the House of
Representatives that the bill for the occupation and
settlement of Oregon Territory will come before the House
this week. It will pass when acted upon. It was referred to
the Committee of Foreign Affairs. John Quincy Adams,
chairman of the committee, reported back the same without
amendment, on the 13th, and, as might have been expected
from him, recommended that the bill do not pass. It is
evident, notwithstanding, that the bill will pass when acted
upon. Captain Stine [Steen], commanding the Dragoons at Fort
Leavenworth, has addressed several letters to Dr. L. F. Linn
and others, wishing the Secretary of War to grant him
permission to accompany us with the Dragoons. I have
postponed an interview with the Secretary of War till I am
ready to leave for the West. I have sent many documents to
you and others. You will please send some of them to your
friends in Ohio, Wheeling, and other places, if you have any
to spare. I have given the names of the several committees
in Pittsburgh, and west of it, to a number of the members,
who promise that they will continue to send all the
documents calculated to throw light on the subject of
Oregon, etc.
I am happy to learn that the citizens of Pittsburgh take so
warm an interest in the matter.