Joseph Watt, a pioneer of 1844, from whose "Recollections of Dr. John McLoughlin" I have already quoted, also said, in said _Recollections_:[77] "The next I saw of the Doctor was in Oregon City, he having stayed at Fort Vancouver until all the immigrants for that year [1844] had arrived. He was building a large flouring mill, at that time nearing its completion. He already had a saw mill in full blast, also was building a dwelling house, preparing to move to that place, which he did in the following spring. From that time to his death he was a prominent figure in Oregon City. Nothing pleased him better than to talk with the settlers, learn how they were getting along, their prospects, of their ability to live, and to help others. He was anxious that every one should be well and kept busy. He could not endure idleness or waste. Over-reaching, or, what we Americans call 'sharp practice,' he had no patience with whatever. As far as he was concerned all transactions were fair, straight-forward and honorable. Those who knew him best never thought of disputing his word or his declared intentions, although there were some high in authority who did this in after years, apparently for selfish motives; and through their representations, caused the U. S. Government to do an act of great injustice. But I am proud to be able to say that all, or nearly all of the first settlers, did not endorse the action, and never rested until the wrong was adjusted as nearly as it was possible to do so.... It appeared by common consent that he was practically the first governor of the great North Pacific Coast. No man ever fulfilled that trust better than Dr. John McLoughlin. He was always anxious over the Indian problem. No one understood the Indian character better than he did. All the Indians knew him as the great 'White Chief,' and believed whatever he said could be depended on; that he was not their enemy, but was strictly just with them in every thing;--could punish or reward, as he thought best, and no trouble grew out of it. But with the settlers the case was different.... Dr. McLoughlin! Kind, large-hearted Dr. John McLoughlin! One of nature's noblemen, who never feared to do his duty to his God, his country, his fellow-men and himself, even in the wilderness. The pioneers of this great North-West feel that they owe Dr. John McLoughlin a debt of gratitude above all price, and that they and their posterity will cherish his memory by a suitable monument placed on the highest pinnacle of fame within the State of Oregon."