Is it possible that Custer had some sort of relationship with this Indian girl that he then tried to cover up? He wouldn't be the first married military commander with a shady incident involving a young Native American girl
In his account, Custer gave no indication or hint of this eventuating.
According to Custer, he says at p.172:-
...'And while cherishing these friendly feelings and desiring to do all in my power to render oor captives comfortable and free from anxiety regarding their future treatment at our hands, I think even the most strenuous and ardent advocate of that peace policy which teaches that the Indian dioiild ho left free and unmolested in the gratification of his simple tastes and habits, will at least not wholly condemn me when they learn that this last touching and unmistakable proof of confidence and esteem, offered by Mah-wis-sa (
Black Kettle's sister) and gracefulIy if not blushingly acquiesced in by the Indian maiden, was firmly but respectfully declined. The few reasons which forced me to deny myself the advantages of this tempting alliance were certain circumstances over which I then had no control, among which was a previous and already solemnized ceremony of this character, which might have a tendency to render the second somewhat invalid. Then, again, I had not been consulted in regard to my choice in this matter— a trifling consideration, but still having its due influence. I had not had opportunities to become acquainted with the family of the young damsel who thus proposed to link her worldly fate with mine. Her father's bank account might or might not be in a favorable condition. No opportunity had been given me to study the tastes, disposition, or character of the young lady— whether she was fond of music, literature, or domestic duties. All these were questions with which I was not sufficiently familiar to justify me in taking the important step before me, I did not, however, like certain candidates for office, thrice decline by standing up, and with my hand pressed to my heart say. " Your husband I cannot be "; but through the intermediation of Romeo, the interpreter, who from tfie first had been highly entertained by what he saw was an excellent joke on the big chief, and wondering in his own mind how I would extricate myself without giving offence. I explained to Mah-wis-sa my due appreciation of the kindness intended by herself and her young friend, but that according to the white man's laws I was debarred from availing myself of the offer, at the same time assuring them of my high consideration, etc. Glad to get away to duties that called me elsewhere, I left with Romeo (
Custer's scout and interpreter).'...
In this self-account, Custer emphatically states he denied himself this 'tempting alliance' (using his words) because he was already married and unfamiliar with his would-be partner's disposition and situation.
But knowing his character, can Custer be believed that he did not have physical relations with this young native American girl (whose age could have been less than Custer's stated estimate of 17 years)?
en.wikipedia.org
Bringing the