........
of medicine for the last nine years, and would like lo serve Texas in that capacity; but I care but JjLtle in what capacity I should acl, provided I was qualified for the station. I can give a rifle as deadly an aim as most other men. Knowing you to be a brother Tennessean, I lake this liberty. I reside at Fairfield l\'lission, Cherokee Nation. Heretofore, the cause of Texas was not viewed in favorable light in· this country, as far as my observation has extended. But, I perceive that prejudice with many others as with myself, has given way to a warm and friencUy geeling. My heart is enlisted in your cause, and I will let me be where I may, exert myself in your behalf. But possibly you may have expelled your enemies ere this reaches you. Permit me to request you to have a few lines written to me on the subject, directed to Vineyard P.O. Washington County, Arkansas. Sir I have the honor to be Your most obt. and humble servt. and Countryman.
·l I .
'l !· I , 1,
James P. Evans
(4118] [HOUSTON to COSTLEY]
Nacogdoches, 1st September. 1836. Dear Sir. Your note came by Mr. Cook, and was passed over to Colo. Whisler, comg [commanding] N[nited] States Troops at this place- I am not advised what course he will take. I want you to watch well, and to keep the men with you in good order. By no means do I want you to begin hostilities: Let us be prudent, for if war does begin it will produce great calamities, and would almost break up our army in the field who would feel compelled lo return lo the protection of their families, & leave our frontier without an army to protect it. Do be prudent, and do not be first to make a quarrel, with the Indians. Let the Dragoons make a report before you go into the limits of the nation. Yesterday, and this morning, there are men and women of the Cherokees trading in town. When the Dragoons return you shall have their report. Lel not the world say that we made a ,var. But that we have sought Lo keep peace. Today I hope to hear from Genl. Gaines. Your friend Sam Houston, Comdr in Chief To Capt M. Costley.
360
_J
Powered by FlippingBook