[2775] [QUITMAN to HUSTON]
[Nacogdoches, April 15, 1836]
[Dear Gen. Huston:]
There is not a woman or child in the town of
Nacogdoches.
The facts seem to be that a body of Mexican cavalry were sent early last month to co-operate with the Indians on the upper frontier, and make a descent upon this unprotected country, and that the Cherokees had given them assurance of support; that owing to the incessant rains, the unprecedented floods, and the rottenness of the soil in the woods and prairies, the cavalry have not been able to operate this side of Trinity River, and that the Indians, finding themselves unsupported, and learning that the 4th and 6th regiments U.S. Infantry had arrived at Fort Jessup, and that Gen. Gaines had resolved to keep them in check, have dissembled their intentions, and now profess friendship. I conclude, therefore, that the Mexicans on the Trinity will endeavor to operate on Houston's rear, and that there is no immediate danger to this section. The panic, however, has done its work. The houses are all deserted. There are several thousands of women and children in the woods on both sides of the Sabine, without supplies or money. Everything was left in flight-the corn in the crib, the meat in the smoke-house, their poultry, cattle, and furniture. Many fled from San Augustine. Advancing into the country, we found the roads literally lined with flying families, and, instead of the men turning their faces to the enemy, we met at least 300 men, with arms in their hands, going east. Perhaps they condisered the contest hopeless, and did not care to throw away their lives. The reports of the enemy's overwhelming numbers and bloody intentions were indeed alarming. We must have met, at least, 1000 women and children, and every where along the road were wagons, furniture, and provisions abandoned. Almost every house was deserted, and its contents left open to depredation. We shall probably set out for the Brazos tomorrow. An express has just arrived from Gen. Houston. He is at Gross's Ferry, 20 miles above San Felipe. A corps of 900 Mexicans are
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