7:Z::Z:12 dH7ftMMttlHtt:rttH II ::WW:RtM • .
Our Catliolic Heritage in T e:i:as
334
approximately two hundred leagues, or between five and six hundred miles. Such a course would take them across the Panhandle in the vicinity of Amarillo and through a good part of Oklahoma before they reached the large stream which they called the Jesus Maria. In order to have gone to the Platte River, as suggested by some, he would have had to go in an almost due north direction. Furthermore, it is to be remembered that one of the causes for this expedition had been the incursion of the French in East Texas, consequently the goal would have been to the east. If, therefore, they turned slightly to the south, they very likely followed a course parallel to the Red River along the northern boundary of the State, between this stream and the Arkansas. But be that as it may, when they came to the ranclze1'tas of the Pananas, which were on the opposite side of the river called Jesus Maria, Captain Villasur decided to send an Indian of that nation, who was in the expe- dition, across the river with presents and with a message to inform them that the Spaniards were their friends, who had come to obtain informa- tion about the whites who had introduced themselves among the Indians. The native scout took some bundles of tobacco, knives, and other things to present to the Pananas. The messenger did not return that day. But a number of chiefs or warriors came to the Spanish camp. Unfortunately there was no one who could understand their language and the Spaniards could learn nothing from them. The visitors showed great reserve during the stay and appeared to be suspicious of the designs of the Spaniards. The next day the messenger was seen on the opposite bank of the river. He informed the Spaniards through signs that he could not come over . because he was being kept a prisoner by the Pananas. 'When asked if there were white men among the Indians, .....eplied that he did not know. Captain Villasur wanted to cross the river immediately to find out for himself the true state of affairs, but a council was held and it was decided to find a good passageway first. While the deliberations were going on some of the friendly Indians who had accompanied the Spaniards went into the river for a swim. The Pananas attacked them and succeeded in capturing one of them. Because of this hostile act, the council of officers decided it would be wise for the exploring party to retire. The leader of the expedition agreed to abide by the decision and ordered a retreat on the following day, August 12. The men marched so fast that in one day they retreated the distance they had advanced in two days. They came upon a river, which they called San Lorenzo, and passed over it, pitching camp just beyond. Shortly after dark a dog was heard to bark and the
r: r, I
'( ., I, I I ,,
I
I
-I ;'
,·
I I I' i ' I, j
Powered by FlippingBook