[2195] [FANNIN to MIMS]
Goliad, 28th Feby 1836.
Mr. Jos. Mims
The advise I gave you a few days back is too true- The enemy have the town of Bejar, with a large force- and I fear will soon have our brave countrymen in the Alamo. Another force is near me- and crossed the river yesterday morning, and attacked a party by surprise, under Col. Johnson, and routed them, killing Capt. Pearson, and several others after they had surrendered. I have about 420 men here, and if I can get provisions in tomorrow or next day, can maintain myself against any force. I will never give up the ship, while there is a pea in the ditch. If I am whipped, it will be well done-and you may never expect to see me. I hope to see all Texas in arms soon, if not, we lose our homes, and must go east of the Trinity for awhile. Look to our property-save it for my family, whatever may be my fate. I expect some in about this time, by Coghy and wish you to receive and take care of it. I now tell you, be always ready. I have not as much confidence in the people of Texas as I once had. They have been called on and entreated to fly to arms and prevent what has now been done. I have but three citizens in the ranks, and tho' I have called on them for six weeks, not one yet arrived, and no assistance in bringing me provisions, even Texans refused me. I feel too indignant to say more about them. If I was honora- bly out their service, I would never re-enter it. But I must now play a bold game-I will go the whole hog. If I am lost, be the censure on the right head, and may my wife & children and child- ren's children curse the sluggards for ever. I am too mad, and too much to do-any thing but fight. If my family arrive, send my wife this letter. Inquire of McKinney. Hoping for the best, being prepared for the worst, I am in a devil of a bad humor,
Forever, J. W. Fannin.
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