and the Mexican Government Saint Anna has overthrown the government of Mexico and violated the laws and constitution of 1824 which we were invited the the country under and has declared himself Dictator and usurper he wants lo enforce a military government lo have his laws enforced by the force of arms and establish Catholic religion annoying the inhabitants of Texas such things the Americans will nol submit lo like true Americans they have taken up arms in defense of their rights and their country Blood has already been shed and the cry is lo arms lo arms my countrymen to arms they have had several engagements in which the Americans came off victorious we have lost but one man as yel and one wounded the Mexicans have lost a great number I will give you a small sketch of the last battle [The Battle of Gonzales] 90 of the Americans was allacked by 400 Mexicans and in a short time the Americans completely routed them and obtained a most glorious victory without the loss of but one man moelally wounded tomorrow morning I shall start to join the army al Saint Antone al which place the Mexicans have fortified themselves the Americans have surrounded them [Siege of Bexar] sand only are waiting for reir.forcements and some large cannon and Bums [bombs] lo storm the fort yes dear parents I shall soon join the army and like a lrne born American fight for Liberty. God and Liberty is our motto and I think I shall not disgrace the cause it is about three hundred miles from this place lo San Antone I slarl in company with two other Gentlemen from Kentucky there is about Seven Hundred [coming) from that place to Texas lo join our army I wish Brother Daniel was out here lo go with me and learn to be a soldier if I never return you can tell Brother Daniel to come ou l lo this place and settle my business I have Lands and other properly here all of which I shall leave in the care of Thos. B. Huling Merchant at this place Zavalla I must draw lo a close as it is about 12 oclock J only ask you to sometimes think of me far away and offer a silent prayer for my prosperity and success please give my best respects lo all Please except[accept] this from you far distant son I Addressed:] Mr. Daniel Bowker Sudbury Massachusetts E. Bowker
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