My dear Sir: July 20, 1861
To-day I send to the Senate the arrangement made through Mr. Williams with the Delaware Indians, asking their advice as to the making a formal treaty of it, as it already is in substance. On very full reflection I have thought this course the safest and best. I will thank you if you will move an amendment in about these words: ``Provided that no part of said lands, shall be patented, until the money price for such part shall have been fully paid; and provided further that time shall be extended, so that the rights of said Railroad Company under the treaty to which this is supplemental, shall not be forfeited until ---
These provisos for the perfect security of the Indians on the one hand; and for the benefit of the Co. on the other. The blank you will fill of course. Yours as ever A. LINCOLN