Biv 27 1835 to Jan 13 1835 - PTR, Vol. 3

The arrival of Colonel Ugartechea with replacements, at the time my few soldiers were fighting for the sixth day, inch by inch over the Plaza, did not help, as we could not utilize them. (This was) due to the fact they lacked training; were tired from a twenty three league march to the city; and they only aggravated matters by increasing the consumption of provisions of which there was an absolute lack. In such critical circumstances, there were no other measures than to advance and occupy The Alamo which, due to its small size and military position, was easier to hold. In doing so, I took with me the artillery, packs and the rest of the utensils I was able to transport. (This was) in spite of the fact that two companies of the Presidiales de Rio Grande with their officers, plus those at Agua Verde and some pikemen, with their captain, had deserted me. This occurance had demoralized the other soldiers so much that almost all of them followed the example. Only 120 of the Permanent Battalion, Morelos, and some Presidial Dragoons remained faithful. The rest of those who had not deserted were wounded or dead. I was in a very difficult situation. My retreat was cut off. The troops were dead tired and without a single horse to bring provisions to maintain their positions. Under those circumstances I decided to take advantage of the evening's inaction at the moment to draw up some terms, copies of which will be forwarded to Your Excellency as soon as I arrive at Laredo where I am now heading. I am taking with me more than .§__O.Q, men, including the replacements with their cartridge boxes fuffofa mmunition and a four-pounder; the rest of the armaments remain in the power of the insurgents. I have stopped only for today in order to acquire the necessary carriages to transport my wounded and to furnish my subordinates with the indispensable supplies to undertake a ten day's march, according to my calculations. The Captains, officers and men who have accompanied me have conducted themselves with courage and steadiness as usual. (I will) send Your Excellency presently the details of the battles and actions which have taken place during the two months I was besieged. . And so I write this to you so that you may pass 1t on to his Supreme Excellency, the Provisional President. I further state:

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