war ship of the enemy, which had many Guns.
Sam Houston Colonneh
Camp on Brasos 13th Apl. 1836 [Addressed:] To Colonel Cherokees Texas By Mr. Johnson
Bowl Great Chief of the
[2739) [HOUSTON to CITIZENS]
Headquarters of the Army, Camp on Brazos, April 13, 1836
TO THE CITIZENS OF TEXAS:
You have suffered panic to seize you, and idle rumor to guide you. You will now be told that the enemy have crossed the Brasos, and that Texas is conquered. Reflect, reason with yourselves, and you can not believe a part of it. The enemy have crossed the Brasos, but they are treading the soil on which they are to be conquered. That he has not been already beaten, has been caused by the tardiness of some, and the apathy of others. The force of the enemy does not exceed nine hundred men. With a semblance of force sufficient to meet him, his fate is certain. If, then, you wish your country saved, join her standard. Protect your wives, your children, and your homes, by repairing to the field, where alone, by discipline and concert of action, you can be effective. The presence of the small ·force now in the field has divided his army. Our spies have once checked his career. Then march forward; and with the confidence of men determined lo conquer, join the troops now in the field, and your enemy is certainly in your power. Twenty men in number checked the force of the enemy in crossing the Brasos at Fort Bend. The rumor that is curculated about the Mexicans being on the Trinity, was reported at the falls of the Brasos three weeks ago. A gentleman is in camp who says no enemy had passed there; so, like other reports, it must be unfounded. Come and free your country at once; and be men! Let those who are on the march, advance to the army. Those who do not aid Texas in her present stmggle, but flee and forfeit all the rights of citizens, will deserve their fate. Sam Houston, Commander-in-Chief
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