much lost to them. They are using every exertion, to get an expedition fitted out, to suit their own pu~poses. They want their own leaders, but they still want the sanction of the government. They have means, and many of the council are needy and, I fear, corrupt. They are at least timid, and lack courage and firmness. They (the intTiguers) are vigilant and spare no pains lo buy up men, who they consider would have influence with the army. I well know their situation and plans, and if they should succeed, I honestly tell you, Texas is lost to all honest men. They may overpower, but they can not deceive me. They resort to every kind of intrigue, and management; but I am not idle. They wish to have the control of the army in fitting out the expedition and finally to give laws to Texas. But I confidently hope, that Texas will yet become herself, and be ruled by her own laws. Every man that is not in favor of Texas becoming independent and free, distrust him! Every one that wishes to supercede the commander-in-chief, or not recognize him in his proper place, distrust him! I have anticipated them and ordered the commander-in -chief forthwith to proceed to the frontier, take charge of the army, establish his headguarters at the most eligible point, and to immediately concentrate his troops, at the different points, so as to be in readiness for active operations, at the earliest possible day. A descent will be made on Matamoros, as soon as it can possibly be fitted out. You will therefore obey the order given to you as soon as circumstances will permit. You will however not forget the election. I consider that all important. Some men of whom I have cautioned you are making bold moves to become commander-in-chief of expeditions. I will rob them of the army and they will be flat. They have hoisted a flag at Bexar for independence, with Gen. Houston's name upon it! This I have learned to be the fact. I find it necessary, in order to circumvent them, to order Gen. Houston immediately to take charge. He will obey the order promptly.... My duties _are ard~ous in the extreme, and my situation by no means enVIable. Without means, h_arr~ssed, by the disbanding of a mob, call_ed ~n army, a new orgamzallon, without precedent, to call org~mzat10n and system out of anarchy and f · t gi·ve audience to all. ... I have been placed by my con us10n, o . . h f II •t· s on the political wale tower. I feel the e ow c1 1zen , "h'l'l and confidently hope I may prove a faithful respons1 11 y
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