253
THE AUSTIN PAPERS •
In a former communication, I hinted the policy of a dash at Matamoros, hoping from what I had then heard, that the movement would be approved and sustained by a majority of the people in that section of the country. But now, I fear it would not be. On the contrary, I am fully satisfied that such a movement on the part of Texas, would be as likely to be opposed, as to be approved But another view of this subject is presented. If Texas cannot achieve her liberation on any easier terms than those above supposed, would it not be wise to use in the prosecution of the war, every weapon which she can seize and weild, now in the hands of the enemy, or within his reach? The post of Matamoros, if properly, and honestly superintended, would yield a very considerable revenue. At present, its income is said to be Sl00.000 per month. It is said that it ought to produc~ much more. This is a formidable and efficient weapon. The position.is imposing-it is com- manding and its occupation would be likely to releive the grate and in- creasing population of Texas, from the immediate, and more appalling calamities of war. Foreign volunteers can be introduced at that point, as readily, and with as little expense, 86 at any other; and the position would afford many facilities for annoying the commerce of the enemy, not fur- nished by any point on the coast of Texas. This is a subject of immense importance to our coun.try; and the policy which she may adopt in relation to it, may greatly mitigate, , or it may multiply, and aggravate, the calamities of the war. The Gerraro Battallion, our friends from the interior inform us, had reached Saltillo, before they crossed the N. River, and had been ordered to march immediately for Bexar. 400 convicts were also to join them. This information was communicated by Colo. Powers who said it was told to him, a few hours previous. Cos, no doubt, has strong assurances of the arr~val of reinforcements; and on these he must rely, to enable him to hold Bexar. Your opinion on the subject of this letter is urgently solicited. P. DIMITT
AUSTIN TO F ANNIN 1
Head Quarters Concepcion Nov. 14, 1835
CAP. J. W. FANNIN This will be delivered to you by D. Salvador Flores-the brother in law of Cap. Juan Seguin- Flores and his company have engaged to go on as far as beyond the Nueces to examin whether any troops are on the road,
1 From Army Papers, Texas State Library.
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