Meaning: This quote is attributed to William Ashley, a businessman and politician who played a significant role in American history during the 19th century. The quote appears to describe a council or meeting between Native American chiefs and representatives of the American government, during which several speeches were made by the chiefs expressing their friendly disposition towards the government. The quote also emphasizes the sincerity of the chiefs' declarations and their conduct during the council.

The context of this quote suggests a historical and political significance, as it reflects the interactions and negotiations between the American government and Native American tribes during a period of significant change and conflict in the United States. To fully understand the quote and its implications, it is important to delve into the historical background of William Ashley and the broader context of Native American relations with the American government during the 19th century.

William Ashley was a businessman and politician who is best known for his role in the fur trade and his involvement in the western expansion of the United States. He was also a prominent figure in the early development of the American West, particularly in the region that would later become the state of Missouri. Ashley was also involved in politics, serving as a representative in the Missouri State Legislature and later as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

During the early 19th century, the United States government pursued a policy of westward expansion, which often brought it into conflict with Native American tribes whose ancestral lands were being encroached upon by white settlers. This period was marked by numerous treaties and negotiations between the government and Native American tribes, as well as frequent instances of broken promises and violence.

Against this backdrop, the quote attributed to William Ashley takes on added significance. It suggests a moment of diplomacy and dialogue between Native American chiefs and representatives of the American government, during which the chiefs expressed their friendly disposition and sincerity towards the government. This may have been a rare instance of mutual understanding and respect between the two parties, amidst a larger historical narrative of broken treaties and conflict.

The quote also underscores the importance of communication and diplomacy in the often fraught and violent interactions between the American government and Native American tribes. It suggests that, at least in this particular instance, the chiefs' speeches and conduct during the council demonstrated a genuine desire for peaceful coexistence and cooperation with the government.

In conclusion, the quote attributed to William Ashley offers a glimpse into a moment of diplomacy and dialogue between Native American chiefs and the American government during a period of significant historical and political change in the United States. It underscores the importance of understanding the broader context of Native American relations with the government during the 19th century, as well as the complexities and challenges of diplomacy and negotiation in the face of westward expansion and conflict.