Thomas, The Cherokee

From the Wheeling Register, April 18, 1886
http://wheeling.weirton.lib.wv.us/history/landmark/wvpen/wvpen3.htm

Thomas is another life prisoner. He, with three others, among them a Chief "Gray Eagle," was sentenced by the Government for murder. The murders committed by these men were the killing of whites, for which crimes they were tried by the United States Courts. Had the murdered man been one of their own color and tribe they would have been tried in their own territory under Cherokee laws. These Indians were brought here several years ago, but the Government of prison life, broke the heart of his chief and two of his companions, and they died. They are buried within the prison walls, in one corner of the yard, and their spirits released from human bondage, started for the happy hunting grounds where the rattle of chains, the clanging of iron doors and the constant toil of daily existence is no longer known. The only one left, Charley Thomas, is a half breed, tall, muscular and powerful. He is one of the best blacksmiths in the shops; always prompt, obedient and attentive. Doubtless the memory of broad plains, the wild free life of the nation, often rushes upon his memory, but if so, he never mentions it, but goes on with his work, quietly and assiduously, day after day, and retires to his cell at night like the hundreds of others, apparently glad that the hours of toil are over and the shades of night and rest and sleep are bringing him one more day nearer the goal of hope -- freedom -- death.