[2667] [BURNET PROCLAMATION]
The Government being anxious to provide a pleasant location, al some one point where the means of comfortable subsistence can he had for those families, who have left their homes, and are now on the road exposed to the inclemency of the weather, and to all the inconveniences incident to their scattered and houseless condition! And several respectable heads of families so situated, having expressed a wish lo have their families so provided for by the Govt, lo afford them an opportunity to return lo the army and to participate in the glory of chastising Lhe insolent barbarities of the common enemy, and of expelling them from the country! lt is therefore ordered and decreed and by and with the advice and consent of my Cabinet, I do order and decree that all the families now on the road do stop their further progress eastward, and that such as have not found suitable and convenient locations for a temporary residence, do repair to the south side of Buffaloe Bayou and to the tract of land known as the tract of Luke Moore, which point has been selected by the heads of families above alluded to, and there make an encampment. This point is eligible on several •········· It abounds in woods suitable for shade, is supplied with good wholesome water and is convenient for obtaining provisions either by land or water It will become necessary to erect temporary shelters For this purpose a person or persons will be provided timber and to superintend the construction of proper sheds. Persons will also be appointed to procure corn and beef for the use of the families. When the families shall be so collected, it will become expedient that a portion of the heads of families shall be designated for the purpose of taking the special charge and protection of those parts of the families who are not subject to militia duty. For this purpose a draft will be made among all the adult males, belonging to said families drawing in the proportion of one man to every five families, and when such draft is effected one person among those drawn will be elected by a majority of the heads of families to whom the general superintendance of the families will be committed. The Commissary appointed to procure provisions, will make weekly reports to the general superintendant of the amount
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