Oct 1 1835 to Nov 26 1835 - PTR, Vol. 2

Papers of the Texas Revolution, Vol. 2

The Papers of the TEXAS REVOLUTION 1835-1836

John H. Jenkins general editor

Volume 2

Presidial Press Brig. Gen. Jay A. Matthews Publisher Austin 1973

Editorial Advisory Board

Maj. Gen. Thomas S. Bishop Dr. Dorman H. Winfrey Dr. Malcolm D. Mclean

Dr. Robert Cotner Dr. James M. Day Robert Weddle Charles Corkran Richard Santos John Kinney

The interest and assistance of the National Guard Association ofTexas in the publication o( these works is grate!ully acknowledged.

[709) [CASTANEDA to UGARTECHEAJ

En la man<!na de hoy pase a la orilla de! rio enfrente de la Villa de Gonzales con el Fin de hablar con el Alcalde respeclo a mi comicion y se me contesto por un Regidor q. se hallava aussnte pero q. lo havian mandado !Jamar y devia venir pronto asegurandome dicho Regidor q. para las cuatro de la tarde podria tener una conferencia con dicho Alcalde o con el por ausencia del primo. en aquel mismo punto a donde pasarian para verificarlo. En efecto se llego su hora senalada y me presente en el punto citado a donde acudieron el expresado regidor acompanado de otros dos y Mr. Smith y el resultado Fue q. se negaron a pasar como me habian ofrecido y se me leyo desde el otro lado la siguiente comuniacion q. original remito a V.S. pa. su conocimiento.= Por ella se impondra V.S. de q. ya no queda duda en q. eslos hombres desagradecidos han obrado y eslan obrando de mala Fe. Les manifeste la ninga. q. tenian para retener el canon q. por un favor se les tenia prestado asi como la tropelia q. havian uzado con el Caho y Soldado q. tenian prezos, pero a todo se negaron contrayendose en sus respuestas a la q. tenian dada por escrito.= Por un Yndio Cochate q. se me presento esta tarde huyendo por haverle dado muerte a su companero despues de hacer muchos dias que estan con ellos, se de positivo q. la Fuerza q. actualmte. tienen son cicnto cuarenta hombres y trescientos q. devian llegar este tarde o pr. la manana de San Felipe y Tenoxtitlan en cuya comision anda el Senor Alcalde. Todos las Familias las han Lechado fuera no se para donde y estan los hombres solos Mr. Smith se halla prezo como los soldados.= Tengo el sentimto. de no haver podido dar el Ueno devido a las ordenes de V.S. por embarazarmelo cl rio y me como imposible poder verificarlo a las inmediaciones de esta Villa por q. por la orilla tienen gente apostada para impedirmelo, asi es q. pienzo si pa. manana no recivo nuevas ordenes de V.S. abandonar este punto y cortar el rio arriba hasta retirarme lo suficienle y poder pasar sin ambarazo.= Dios y Libertad. A la vista de Gonzales Septe. 30. de 1835.= A las siete de la noche.= Fran. de Castaneda. Senor Comandante Pral. Coronel D. Domingo Ugartechea. Es copia Bejar Io. de Octe. de 1835. Ugartechea.

(710] [AUSTIN to HARRIS]

Dear Sir

1 send you the enclosed open that you may see its contents and send it by express to the Committee etc. There is no time to lose send a safo express and seal the letter and also taking Copies-Oct 1st 1835 S. F. Austin [To A. J. Harris] Copy San Felipe Oct 1st 1835 Committee of Safety of the Jurisdiction of Austin Enclosed are copies of letters recd. by Express by way of Coles' Settlement, they speak for themselves- · The District of Washington is turning out and will march to Gonzales as fast as possible. The urgency of the occasion renders it necessary to appeal to the patriotism of the people etc This committee propose that one of the members of each of the Committee's of Safety be appointed to come to this place without one moments delay, and remain here as a permanent council, such a measure is now deemed undispensahly necessary- S. F. Austin-Chairman of Committee-

(711] [AUSTIN to -----1

Committee of Safety of the Jurisdiction of Austin

San Felipe October 1, 1835 Inward are copies of letters this moment recd. by express

by way of Coles Settlement. They speak for themselves.

The district of Washington is turning out and will march to

Gonzales as fast as possible.

The urgency of the ocasion renders it unnecessary to appeal lo the patriotism of the people. Now is the time for action- The volunteers from the younger co~nlry Colombia would

perhaps do well lo rendezvous al Beason on Colorado as soon as possible. This commillee proposes that one of lhe members of each of lhe other commillees of safely be appointed to come to this place without one momenls delay, and remain here as a permanent counsel-such .. a measure now deemed to lie indispensably necessry.

S. F. Austin Chairman of Com.

(712) [CLEMENTS to------]

[c. Oct. 1, 1835] Deviendo la aucencia del Alcalde la obligacion ha recaido

Senor.

sohre mi asegurando la comuniacion dirigida al mismo Alcalde de esta Vilia demandando nuevamente un canon que existe en este lugar tambien como una respuesta a su nota en la que decea abrir una negociacion sobre el obgeto. · En respuesta a su primera demanda que hace sabre el dho. cacon el Alcalde espresa sus dudas de lo que era estrictamente su obligacion sobre esta materia, y decea consultarlo con el Gefe politico de este Departamento antes de decidir el positivamenle en el caso de conclucion; este derecho de consultar a nuestro gefe, me parece se nos sera negado, la unica respuesta que puedo dar a V. No. puedo ni hare la entrega, agradable a mi parecer de propiedad, y estos son los sentimientos de los mienbros de este ayuntamiento qucines sc hallan prcsentes. El dho. canon esta ahora en esta Villa y si su fuerza q. se halla frente de nosotros es numrosa, la nuestra aunque somos pocos en numero jamas sucumbiremos contra lo que creemos justo a nuestros principios. Dios y Libertad.

Jose D. Clements, Regidor

(7131 [COS to ALCA1,DE]

Comanda. Gral. e Ynspon. de los E.E. Ynts. de oriente. Ha llcgado a notivia de esta Comada. {!:ral. q. havien- dosele reelamado a V. un canon que ecsiste en esa Villa indevidam-

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te. 8C ha ncg:a1lo a entrcg:arlo, y coma esla con~lu~la sumame,nl~ escandalosa, prodllcira males cle m~1cho tamano prm~1palmte. a \·SI no hace inmeclialam Le. la comumcacla enlrega, cp11ero Cl• an les Cl · obrc la fllcrza, rcflcccione sobrc Sil cilllaCio11 y advierla los ~H~lcs qllc va a callsar con su mancjo.= Hagalo V. asi y en caso _cle decHhrse a proscgllir en la marcha q. ha empreendid~ enllenda CJ· la responsaviliclad cle la~ consecuencias pcsara escncialmen_Le sohre su persona, y q. no va a pelear con solo la_ pcque~~a Secc1on q • s~ ~e presenlara a la vista, sino con locla la Nacion l\')e_1~cana Cl·. lo adm_'L 1 0 en Sil seno y lo tolcra pr Sil ronclad caraclerist,c~.= D,os y L1bc~ Goliad 0etllbe. lo. de 1835.= A las once y media de la noche.- ~larlin Perfecto cle Cos.= Al Alcalde lo. cle la Villa de Gonzales. Es copia. M.M. Mendoza. Secreto

(714] [COS to UGARTECHEA l

Sr. Coronel Dn. Domingo Ugarlechea.= Goliad lo. de Octuhre de 1835.= Mil)' eslimado amigo: No me disgusla q. la Villa de Gonsalez se manifieste renucnte a la entrega de la pieza q. hubiera sido corabenienle Sil aclquisicion anticipada, ni me ofende tam poco ese or~ullo altanero por q. aun no hemos llegado a las veras; pero sienlo infinilo q. cse molivo lribial violenle una declaracion q. ya espero y acaso deseo.= ~larehc V. pues como se le dice de oficio, dejando a Bejar Aseg:uarado con la fuerza reslanle de la Guarnicion, y con la confianza de q. el amigo Condelle ha de defender como el mejor ese imporlanle punto.= Yo no resuelvo tadavia el rumbo q. he de seguir, pero lo avisare a V, yes provable q. nos veremos pronto.= Como estoy inslruido de q. V. es valienle, hivo y moderado, nada lengo q. cncargarle parlicularmenle, sino ofrecerle de nueve mi cooperacion en sus Servicios, y el afeclo particular con q. Soy su amigo vcrdadero.= l\lartin P. de Cos.

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[715) [COS to UGARTECHEAJ

Comanda. Gral. de los E.E. internos de Oriente.

Me he impuesto de cuanto me dice V.S. en su comunicacion de ayer y en concecuencia he determinado qe. V.S. a la caheza de 100. Cahallos y las eompanias de preferencia clel Morelos completadas hta igual numero, marche inrnediatamte. a la Villa de Gonzalez para ecsigir y conducir a esa Ciudacl el canon de a 8. que inclcviclante. ecsiste alli haciendo que sobre la rnarcha se le incorporcn los otros I 00. draJ!ones qe. llevo a sus oms. el Tente. D. Franco. Castaneda.= Para que ya del otra lado del Rio pueda V.S. con mas seguridad conbinar sus opcraciones en caso de q. aqa. pohlacion se resista a hacer dha. entrega, dispondra V.S. el pasarlo a aliruna distancia del frente de Gonzales, ocultando su movimto. y tomando aqucllas precauciones q. conoce en estos casos.= Si V.S. I~ ere com bte. llevara asi mismo concigo una piesa de batalla m1e apoye a la infanteria.= No es posihle qe. sc tolere la conclucta escandalosa de la autoridad de Gonsalez, y por lo mismo VS. obrara en el precen te caso con la firmesa necesaria, pero siempre sus providencias seran meditadas, y con la prudencia y circunspeccion que ecsigo el decoro del Gobierno y el Estaclo mismo de las cosas.= Ya de la otra margen del Rio y a la inmediaciondel pueblo, abisara V.S. como corresponde el objeto de su marcha, y remitira a aquel Alcalde el pliego que va adjunto, senalando un lermino muy perentorio pa. la contestacion, en la que no admitira moratorias de ninga. clace, pero seria combeninete el qe. todo se dispusiera de modo qe. las hostilidades comensaran pr. los sublevados, si acaso fuere asi adsequible.= Recomienclo a V.S. muy particularmle. y le ecsijo bajo su responsabilidad, qe en caso de tener q. obrar con lasarmas, no permita ecsesos de ninga. clace a su tropa. y haga qe. con una religiosidad estremadse respeten las propiedades aun de · aquellos sugctos qe capilanean la rehelion pues es preciso darles a conocer q. las lropas del Supmo. Gobno. tienen diciplina, y no quieren olra cosa, sino qe. se respetan las leyes y qe. los Ciudads. no se sobrepongan a ells.= Ultimamte. no dudo de la pericia y prudencia de V.S. q. en esla operacion q. le eonfio llenara conpletam te. mis cleseos, y dara honor al Gobno. Supmo.= Dios y Libertad Goliad Octube. lo. de 1835.= A las once y media de la noche.= Martin Perfecto de Cos.= Sor. Coronl. D. Domingo Ugartechea. Comte. Prat. de este Estado. Es copia. J i\l i\l 1 .l ' . l' en,oza. Secreto,

[716] [GRITTEN to LEWIS}

Bexar 1 October 1835

Major I. R. Le\\~S

Matagorda

Dear Sir,

I had last the pleasure of addressing you by D Juan A. Padilla and I now repeat it, in consequence of the departure for your town of Mess Buckley and Kirby, the bearers, whom I beg leave to intorduce to your acquaintance and attentions. Intelligence has been received from Gonzales, stating that the Ayuntamiento has refused to give up a dismounted cannon demanded by this Military Commandant on an order from the Political Chief, claiming it as belonging lo the place. The 28 ult one hund cavalry left for Gonzales to enforce the order, which however was not then complied with and in this situation of the affair it was judged expedient, after consultation, to adopt the suggestion of Col. Ugartechea (who professes himself unwilling to come to a mpture with the Colonies) that D Smither should proceed to Gonzales and recommend to that Municipaljty to await the orders of the Political Chief of the Brazos direct the gun to be given up and the Colonel withdraw his troops, an arrangement may yet be effectcd, suitable lo the honor and interests of Texas, if not, the Colonies, when they go into the struggle, should do so unanimously and with heart and would, if they wish lo succeed. General Cos is to be here in a few days and is appointed Commissioner for the affairs of the Colonies: more troops are also expected. Please present my best comp to Judge Chambers and my best respects to your lady who I sincerely hope has improved in health. Mess Buckley and Kirby wil! give you all the information they [are in possession of.} Edward Gritten (Addressed:} Major I. R. Lewis Matagorda Politeness Mess Buckley and Kirby

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[717] [MOORE to STEPP ET AL]

Gonzales, Oct. 1st, 1835. I inform you that we have about 150 men, and are , expecting more troops hourly, and earnestly request that you .;,,---- should spare no pains to send us as much aid as possible. Our situation requires that all of Texas should now aid us. It is the most important crisis that the people of Texas have ever experienced, and our welfare for the future, does depend a great deal on the first stroke that is made. The enemy is now just on the opposite side of the river; in number about 200 troops, and is reinforcing rapidly. Spare no pains in sending us aid, immediately. At all events send us Expresses and state th,e situation of the troops and affairs generally. ' / Respectfully, &c. John H. Moore, Commandant A true Copy. W. H. Wharton [To Messrs. Stepp, Sutherland & Kerr] Comandancia Principal de Coahuila 1 y T~xas.= En mi oficio fecha de ayer previne a V. qe. si para cuando lo reciviera nada habia logrado sobre la entrega del canon, se retirase a esta ciudad conservando la Cahallada; ahora impuesto de quanto V. me manifuesta en su oficio fecha 30. reitero aquella ordcn para q. sin comprometer el honor de las armas Mejicanas verifique dicha retirada= Dios y Libertad. Bejar Octubre lo. de 1835.= Domingo de Ugartechea.= Sor. Ten. D. Fran. Castaneda. Es copia Bejar Octubre lo. de. 1835. Ugartechea. [718) [UGARTECHEA to CASTANEDA] '

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[719] [UGARTECHEA to COS]

Comanda. Gral. de los E.E. internos de Oriente.

Comanda. Pral. de Coahuila v Texas.= SR. Comte. Gen~ral= Por D. Ramon Muzquis Gefe Politico qe. fue de este Deprlrtamto., supe queen la Villa de Gonsales ecsistia una piesa de a 8. de muy biena clace, la qe. pr. el Comte. militar mi antesesor y pr suplica suya se franquco en cl ace de aucsilio al em presario de dha. Villa, qdo. comenso esta a formarse.= El suseso de la Goleta correo y el Estimbot de S. Felipe me hizo prever qe. tal ves se propusiesen hacer uso en contra nuestra de dha. piesa, y para evitarlo ocurri al Gefc Politico de e~te Departamto. pa. qe. solicitase del Alcalde de Gonsales la entrega del Canon.= Al efecto dirijio el oficio que aparece en copia bajo en no. l.= Habiendo mandado esta comunicacion con un cabo y sinco soldads. no creyendo hubiese un motivo pa. negar la entrega de una piesa q. no pertenecia a la Villa, hice tambien qe. fuese una carreta, en qe. conducirla a: esta Ciudad; po no se verifico asi, pretestando el Alcalde de Gonsales lo que aparece en la copia no. 2.= En tal virtud el Gefe politico de Bejar dirijio nuevo oficio que es el marcauo con el no. 3. y el no. 4. es el qe. yo dirgi al alcalde por conducto del Tenle. D. Framco. Castaneda quien con una partida de 100. hombres hice marchar a traer el canon precitado, aun quando pa. ello se hiciese resistencia dandole la om. que manifiesla la copia no 5.= En la madrugada de hoy recibo el oficio dcl Tente. D. Franco. Castaneda que va con el no. 6. y le conteste lo que vera V.S. pr. la copia no. 7.= To dos estos pasos han sido acordados pr. mi con el Sor. Coronel Condelle como V.S. me tiene recomendado, y amhos hemos combenido en qe. se retire la tropa pa. no comprometer el honor nacional, dando a V.S. parte por estraordo. pa. q. impuesto de que ya en las colonias esta declarada la guerra de una manera positiva se sirva a cordar las medidas q. crea mas combenientes.= Dios y Libertad Bejar Sepe. 30. de 1835.= Domingo Ugartechea= Sr. Comte. Grat. de estos Estach de Oriente. Es copia. Goliad. Octube. lo. de 1835. M.M. Mendoza. Secrto.

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(720] [UGARTECHEA to COS]

Comanda. Pral. de Coahuila y Tejas.= No. 205.= Ahora mismo acabo de recivir nuebo oficio de el Tente. D. Francisco el q. en copia acompano a V.S. marcado con el No. 1., y sigte. el oficio que en Yngles le dio el Regidor de Gonzales qe. funciona de Alcalde pr. aucencia de) q. lo es en propiedad.= Para no comprometer de una manera insegura el honor de las armas mejicanas le he reiterado la om. q. va bajo el no. 2.= Estos nuebos motivos ponen mas en clard, y de una manera inducable q. las colonias se han insurreccionado y demandan q. V.S. se sirba adoptar las medidas que jusgue oportunas y convenientes.= Dios y Libd. Bejar lo. de Octubre de 1835.= Domingo de Ugartechea.= Sor. Comandte. Gral. de estos Estados. (721] [UGARTECHEA to SANDOBAL] [Domingo de Ugartechea, Bexar, to Francisco Sandobal, Goliad, October 1, 1835, instructing to forward to Cos his urgent plea to hasten the movement of troops from Copano to Bexar.]

(722] [ALLEY to AUSTIN]

Navadad Oct 2, 1835 Dear Sir

in riding home this morning and reflecting on the movement of Coss I think that it is verry probable that he will not leve Labahia for several days and I have concluded to send a man to asertain that fact and if I find that I will have time after the fifth to march on and intersept him on his march to St. Antonio I shall do so this is for your consideration

Your liberty and Tndipendance John Alley

Col. Stephen F. Austin

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(723] (AUSTIN to MATAGORDA COMMITIEE]

Committee of Austin

San Felipe Oct 2,1835 This committee have recd and read with great satisfaction

your several communications under elate of 27 & 30 ult.

It is highly gratifying that.the people of Matagorda a~p~o_ve of the circulars of this committee of 19 & 21 ult. S11mhar manifestations of approbation and of union have been recd. from every quarter of the country. Public opinion at Nacadoches is hard and firm upon the same basis. The whole country is in motion for the fromticrs, and the utmost confidence & enthusiasm prevails in all -· there is now hut one spirit, one mind, one object --- to drive the military out of Texas and organize a government for this country. The head quarters are now at Gonzales. & all are directed to that point in order to attack Bexar. This committee recommend prudence is to the amunition & arms at that place. The publication which that commit1ee has ordered of its proceedings will inform the enemy that there is such a deposit there, and they may send in boats from some armed vessell to take or destroy it. There is as yet no legally acknowledged head and conse- quently there is some want of concert, but events and a common purpose will supply this object untill the convention meets and makes a Declaration, & organizes a head. The common purpose at this time is to take Bexar and drive the military out of Texas. Enclosed is the last dispatch from Gonzales-- it speaks for itself.

Respectfully yours obt st S. F. Austin Chairman

Committee of Matagorda

(724] (AUSTIN to------]

San Felipe Oct 2. 1835 The volunteers from Columbia &c. about one hundred in number have marched to James Kerrs on La Baca-where I expect there will be a force of 150 men embodied by tonight. This movement was made in consequence of the circular of this committee of 19th & 21st-I have despatched an express to Kerrs

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informing them of the stale of things at Gon~ales up to last accounts The two parties now embodied al Kerrs and Gonzales ought lo communicate with each other by express, and give full information to each other of everything so as to combine their movements and act in concert. I expect a large company from Harrisburg and Trinity and so soon as they come over,.and I can hear certain information from the scene of operations, I will go on to Gonzales myself-I think that Bexar must be cleared of the enemy before the present campaign closes-I expect five hundred men from the Nacogdoches

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country.

Yours respectfully, S. F. Austin

[725) [BALEMUELA to COMMANDERJ

[Marlin Balemuela, Mier, to Commander of the 2nd Company of Regulars, October 2, J 835, giving details on the movement of the company of Tamaulipas. J [726) [COS to UGARTECHEA] [Marlin Perfecto de Cos, Matamoros, to Domingo de Ugartechea, Bexar, October 2, 1835, stating that he has no funds and that Ugartechea must make out as best he can.] [727) [CASTANEDA to UGARTECHEA] Hoy a las cinco de la manana fui atacado en la habitaeion de la Perra por doscientos Americanos mas que menos, con una piesa mediana y un esmeril, y tanto pr. la superioridad de las fuerzas contrarias como pr. las repetidas oms. de VS. he cmprendido mi retirada pa. esa Ciudad en donde dare a VS. un parte circunstancia- do de todo lo ocurrido.= No ha habido mas desgracia que un Soldado de la la. permte. de Tamaulipas de bala de carabina.= Dios y Libel. Campo <lei Carrizo Octubre 2. de 1835.= a la una de la Larde= Frnco. Castaneda.= Sr. Comte. pral. Corl. D. Domingo Ugarlcchea.= Es copia Bejar Octe. 3. de 1835.= Ugarlechea.

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(728) [RANDON ET AL lo PUBLIC]

Camp of the Volunteers Friday Night. .Ll o'clock; October 2, 1835.

Fellow Citizens: -

We have prevailed on our fellow citizen Wm. H. Wharton, Esq. to return and communicate to you the following express, and . also to urge as many as can by possibility leave their homes to repair lo Gonza as immediately, "armed and equipped for war even to the knife." On the receipt of this intelligence the Volunteers iny_nediately resolved to march to Gonzales to aid their countrymen. QVe are just now starting which must apologize for the brevity of this communication) We refer you to Mr. Wharton for an explanation of our wishes, o'pinions and intentions, and also for such political information as has come into our hands. If Texas will now act promptly; she will soon be redeemed from that worse than Egyptian bondage which now cramps her resources and retards her prosperity.

David Randon, Wm. J. Bryand, J. W. Fannin, Jr. F. T. Wells, Geo. Sutherland, B. T. Archer, W. D. C. Hall, W. H. Jack, Wm. T. Austin, P. D. McNeel.

P.S. An action took place on yesterday at Gonzales, in • which the Mexican Commander and several soldiers were slain- no loss on the American side.

[729) IACUIRRE lo CEFEI

1 Jos«'. Maria de Aguirre, Leona Vicario, lo C«~rc, B«~xar, October :J, I m!!'5, ordning him lo lurn over lo (;l'ncral ·Cos the house ; form«·rly occupied by th«~political d1icf. j

[730] [AUSTIN lo the Puhlic J

Circular From lhc Commitee of safely of the jurisdiction of Austin. All are aware of the present movements of volunteers towards the western frontiers. For the information of every one this Committee deem it proper to stale as briefly as possible the leading facts which have given rise lo this excitement. When the circular of this Committee, under elate of the 19th ult. was issued, information of an unquestionahle character had been received her, as to the marching of soldiers from Bexar, in some short period, within the limits of the colonies. The object appeared lo be the apprehension of certain citizens, among them Don Lorenzo de Zavala, now a citizen of Texas, was particularly designated and aimed al. This gentlemenl had come lo Texas, as lo an asylum from the persecution of the present administration of Mexico. His offence we know nol, except that he is the known friend of free insilulions. This distinguished man, the authorities of Texas have been arbitrarily required l,y military mandate lo surrender inlo the hands of general Cos, who, in his zeal to secure the person of this patriolic and virluous citizen, actually issued an order some lime sim:e, addressed lo colonel Ugartechea, commandant al. Bexar, lo march into the colonies and take him, al the risk of losing all the force he should employ. The mere inlimalion of such an order would he an evident disrespect of the cili:lcns of Texas, hut the issuing of it, wilh the correspondent thrcals of colonel Ugarlcchea of pullinµ; it into execution, is at once an open outrage upon the civil authorities of Texas, and upon lhe Conslilulion. But what is of most importance, such pro«:ccdinµ;s serve plainly lo show us all, whal kind of government; th«'. present rdorm«·:rs in Mexico arc aimi111! Lo suhjcd us lo-which

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is the aovcrnmenl of the bayonet, and the regulation of all the affairs ~f Texas by military power, regardless of the Constitution, of the civil authority, and of all the legally vested, equitable, and natural riahts of the people of Texas. Thal such is the real and ultimate object of the military power now reigning in Mexico, and that the reasons assigned for the present hostile movements are nothing but mere prelex ts to cover the main objects, and thus fill the country with troops, is clear and evident; but should there still remain doubts on the mind of any person, tel him weigh and maturely consider the following facts, and draw his own conclusions. The Constitutional Governor of the State, Viesca, and also another go\'ernor, Falcon, who had been constitutionalJy installed to suceed Viesca, have been deposed by the military at Monclova. The slate authorities were imprisoned, and a governor appointed by the acting president of the general government of Mexico. This is evidently an act of military usurpation and despotism, and the stale of Coahuila and Texas is at this time without any contilulional or legal government at all, and the people of every part of the slate, and those of Texas in particular, are left at full liberty to provide for themselves as they may deem best. But a more general, though succinct view of matters, is necessary for a full and proper understanding of this subject. A disastrous and ruinous civil war was kindled in 1832, by means of an insurrection against the Bustamante administration, and general Santa Anna was placed at its head. The avowed object of this insurrection was lo protect the federal system, and sustain the Constitution of 1824, which it was then alleged, was attacked and endangered by the measures and projects of the Bustaman le administration. On this principle the people of Texas supported general Santa Ana to defend the Constitution of 1824, and the federal system. This general was en thusiaslically supported by every liberal and free Mexican, and by the friend of the federal system in every part of the nation. With this support he triumphed. He became the man of the people-the protector of the federal system-the oracle of public opinion-the arbiter of the nation's political destinies. How has he used this power, thus acquired? Let the military despotism now enthroned in Mexico upon the ruins of the federal system-let the friends of this

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system, who are now groaning in prisons or wandering in exile-let the Constitutional of 1824, which still raises its dying voice from beneath the feet of military usurpation-let the free and impartial in Mexico and in the whole civilized world give the reply. They all ::my, he used il lo destroy what he avowed he had taken up arms to protect; hw used the federal party as blind instruments lo destroy the federal system; he abandoned his federal friends who had given him power, and united with the military, ecclesiastical and central party, against whom he took up arms in 1832. The same party is now governing in Mexico, and they say to the people of Texas, in the language of friendship and persuasion-in that of sugar-plums and honey, that in the new Constitution, or central government that is orgaizing in Mexico, guarantees shall be given to the people of Texas, their rights shall be protected and secured, and they are told that the government expects from their "docility" a submission to all the reforms and alterations that may be agreed to by the majority of the nation. See the official letter of the .Minister of Relations, a translation of which is published at the end of this paper, numbered I. But who compose, and what is this majority of the nation spoken of by the minister, and how are · these reforms to be effected? It is composed of the same military power before spoken of, who have assumed the voice of the nation, and have suppressed, by military influence, the expression of public , opinion; and the reforms are to be effected by unconstitu Lional means; a sufficient proof of which is, that the present Congress in Mexico, who was elected with constitutional powers alone, have, by their own act, declared themselves to be invested with the powers of a national convention, to frame a new constitution, or reform that of 1824 as they think proper. Whal is here meant by "reforming" the Const-itution of 1824, may be clearly deduced by the "reform" of the militia made by this same general Congress. This "reform" reduced the militia made by this same general Congress. This "reform" reduced the militia of the States· to one militiaman for every five hundred inhabitants, and disarmed all the rest. The people of Zacatecas resisted this iniquitous law, but were unfortunate and compelled, for the time being, to submit to the military power of the reformer: so that, in fact, "reform" means destruction.

From this condensed view of the past let every impartial man judge for himself what degree of faith or credit ough l lo be !riven to the professions of the present government of Mexico, and ~sk himself whether a subtle poison may not be the concealed in the sugar-plums, or a sling in the honey, that is now offered to the "docile," people of Texas. But, in addition to this general view of matters, information of the most positive and unquestionable character is in the possession of this Commitlee, that every possible effort is making by the government in Mexico to raise troops, money, and resources to fit out an expediton-an army of invasion against Texas. Infantry, arillery, and cavalry have been ordered from San Luis Potosi, Saltillo, and Tamaulipas; and all the disposable infantry at Campeche has also been ordered on to Texas by water, as it was supposed they would stand the climate better than other troops. ~lagazines of arms and ammunition are forming at Matamoras, Goliad, and Bexar, and the old barracks and fortifications al the latter place are repairing to receive a large force, In short, the common talk all over Mexico among the military is the invasion of Texas. Now if the present government of Mexico is sincere ·in its profession of liberal guarantees for Texas, why all this preparation for a military invasion? Why has general Cos marched with all the disposable force at Matamoras (about four hundred men) lo Bexar, where he now is, according to last accounts? Can it be that the government, in its fatherly care for Texas, fears that there are servile slaves in this country, who will oppose liberal guarantees? Or is it that the promised guarantees, are only a cover and a false show, lo quiet Texas until the general Government is prepared to give lo it a military government. It is well known lo all that the reforms spoken of by the minister, and now being made in Mexico, contemplate the aholition of the whole federal system, the establishment of a central or consolidated government, which is to abosrb and swallow up aU the powers and authorities of the nation: military commandancies will supply the place of the state governments, and the vested rights of Texas under the constitution and law of May 7, 1824, are lo he disrgarded and violate,l.

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j .....

■

Ought, orca11, orwill the people of Texas submit to all this? Let each man study the :-ulij«~ct, and answer for himself. If he will not submit, let him ~o lo the military power and prostrate himself. lf he will not submit, let him give his answer from the mouth of hii: rifle! ln regard lo the present movements of the military, the letter from Gonzales, and extracts from other letters of unqueslio11alile faith, will inform the public. By these letters the people of Texas arc informed that their fellow-citizens al Gonzales have been attacked-the was has commenced! They will also perceive that general Cos has arrived with reinforcement of troops, and is preparing for a campaign of extermination against the people of Texas. The head quarters of the Army of the People for the present is al Gonzales. It is already respeclalile in numbers, and invincible in spirit. This Commillce exhorts every citizen who is yet at home, to march as soon as possible lo the assistance of his countrymen now in the field. The campaign is opened. Texas must be freed from military despots before il is closed. S. F. Austin

Chairman of the Committee of the Jurisdiction of Autin.

San Felipe de Austin. October 3, 1835.

[731] [AUSTIN to KERR]

San Felipe Oct. 3. 1835 I have this moment recd. your lellcrs elated lsl instant- The communications which were taken yesterday by Mr Lightfoot, and today by Mr Perkins, will have informed you fully of the attack made on Gonzales, and that volunliers from every part of this country have marched and arc marching lo that point, which is al present the general rend1:-.lvous of the army of the people- Expresses have been sent lo Trinity and lo Na1:ogdoches, and a large force is cxpeclt~d from that q11art1·r-

The campaign is opened, and it must not be closed until!

f Bexar is taken and all the military arc driven out of Texas.

A report reached here that the voluntiers from Colombia who were to rendezvous al Kerrs had been turned back, in consequence of news received by them from .Matagorda-in consequence of which I dispatched an express to Colombia on receipt of the news of the attack on Gonzales- I also dispatched the same lo Matagorda, and yesterday to La Baca. Correct information, as to Cos's movements, and concert between Gonzales and La Baca is very important- It is possible that Cos may attempt a forced march to this place from Goliad, in the absence of the men al Gonzales. It would be well to keep this idea in view and to obtain certain information, when he left Goliad, and where the Morelos Battalion have stopped-whether they went on to Bexar, or have remained at Goliad- I expect the men from Harrisburg wilJ be on by tomorrow or next day lo this place, and unless otherwise advised they will continue on lo Gonzales I regret that there are no Guns to be had in this quarler for the supply of Capt. Allens company. There is public powder at Matagorda which you can gel by applying for in my name to the committee of that place, as they informe~ me they would hold it subject to my order. I shall dispatch expresses with the information contained in your letters, to every part of the upper and eastern country. I presume you have of course informed them in Matagorda and Bay Prairie from which il will go lo Colombia. There are some who will nol yet believe thal Genl. Cos has come on- send all the positive information you can on this subject in a letter signed by James Kerr, John Alley, George Sutherland, or some others who are well known, in order that it may be printed with the signatures- The printing press will be ready to print in this place lo-morrow-you can therefore send me what you wish lo have published- S. F. Austin To James Kerr and John Alley-

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I I I

I 1 ! I ..._

[732J [BARRAGAN DECREE]

Office of the First Secretary of Slate, Interior Department. His Excellency the President pro tern of the Mexican United States to the Inhabitants of the Republic. Know ye, that the General Congress has decreed the following: Art. l. The present government of the slates shall continue, notwithstanding the time fixed by the constitution may have expired; but shall be dependent for their continuance in the exercise of their attributes upon the Supreme Government of the nation. Art. 2. The legislatures shall immediately cease to exercise their legislative functions: but before dissolving (and those which may be in recess meeting for the purpose) they shall appoint a Department Council, composed, for the present, of five individuals, chosen either within or without their own body, to act as a council to the governor; and in case of vacancy in that office, they shall propose to the Supreme General Government three persons possessing the qualifications hitherto required; and until an appoint- ment be made, the gubernatorial powers shall be exercised by the first on the list who is not an ecclesiastic. Art. 3. In those states where the legislature cannot be assembled within eight ·clays, the Ayuntamiento of the capital shall act in its place, only for the purpose of electing the five individuals of the Department-Council. Art. 4. All the judges and tribunals of the stales, and the administration of justice, shall continue as hitherto, until the organic faw relative to this branch be formed. The responsibilities of the functionaries which could only be investigated before Congress, shall be referred to and concluded before the Supreme Court of the nation. Art. 5. All the subaltern officers of the stale shall also continue for the present (the places which are vacant, or which may be vacated, not to be filled), but they, as well as the officers, revenues, and branches under their charge, remain subject lo, and at the disposal of, the Supreme Government of the nation, by means of the respective Governor. Palace of the Federal Government in Mexico, Oct. 3d, 1835. Miguel Barragan, [Acting President) A. D. Manuel Diez de Bonilla

-------- =,--------

The campaign is opened, and it must not be closed untill

Bexar is taken and all the military arc driven out of Texas.

A report reached here that the voluntiers from Colombia who were to rendezvous al Kcrrs had been turned back, in consequence of news received by them from Matagorda-in consequence of which I dispatched an express to Colombia on receipt of the news of the attack on Gonzales- I also dispatched the same to ~latagorda, and yesterday to La Baca. Correct information, as lo Cos's movements, and concert between Gonzales and La Baca is very important- It is possible that Cos may attempt a forced march to this place from Goliad, in the absence of the men al Gonzales. It would be well lo keep this idea in view and to obtain certain information, when he left Goliad, and where the Morelos Battalion have stopped-whether they went on to Bexar, or have remained at Goliad- I expect the men from Harrisburg will be on by tomorrow or next day lo this place, and unless otherwise advised they will continue on lo Gonzales I regret that there are no Guns to be had in this quarter for the supply of Capt. Allens company. There is public powder at Matagorda which you can gel by applying for in my name to the committee of that place, as they informe1 me they would hold it subject to my order. I shall dispatch expresses with the information contained in your letters, to every part of the upper and eastern country. I presume you have of course informed them in Matagorda and Bay Prairie from which it will go lo Colombia. There are some who will not yet believe that Genl. Cos has come on- send all the positive information you can on this subject in a letter signed by James Kerr, John Alley, George Sutherland, or some others who are well known, in order that it may be printed with the signatures- The printing press will be ready to print in this place to-morrow-you can therefore send me what you wish to have published- s. F. Austin To James Kerr and John Alley-

I l

! I I ~-

[732] [BARRAGAN DECREE]

Office of the First Secretary of State, Interior Department. His Excellency the President pro Lem of the Mexican United States to the Inhabitants of the Republic. Know ye, that the General Congress has decreed the following: Art. 1. The present government of the states shall continue, notwithstanding the time fixed by the constitution may have expired; but shall be dependent for their continuance in the exercise of their attributes upon the Supreme Government of the nation. Art. 2. The legislatures shall immediately cease to exercise their legislative functions: but before dissolving (and those which may be in recess meeting for the purpose) they shall appoint a Department Council, com posed, for the present, of five individuals, chosen either within or without their own body, to act as a council to the governor; and in case of vacancy in that office, they shall propose to the Supreme General Government three persons possessing the qualifications hitherto required; and until an appoint- ment be made, the gubernatorial powers shall be exercised by the first on the list who is not an ecclesiastic. Art. 3. In those states where the legislature cannot be assembled within eight ·days, the Ayuntamiento of the capital shall act in its place, only for the purpose of electing the five individuals of the Department-Council. Art. 4. All the judges and tribunals of the states, and the administration of justice, shall continue as hitherto, until the organic '1aw relative to this branch be formed. The responsibilities of the functionaries which could only be investigated before Congress, shall be referred to and concluded before the Supreme Court of the nation. Art. 5. All the subaltern officers of the state shall also continue for the present (the places which are vacant, or which may be vacated, not to be filled), but they, as well as the officers, revenues, and branches under their charge, remain subject to, and al the disposal of, the Supreme Government of the nation, by means of the respective Governor. Palace of the Federal Government in Mexico, Oct. 3d, 1835. Miguel Barragan, [Aeling President] A. D. Manuel Diez de Bonilla

[733) [COS to TORNEL]

N. 605 E.S. Co anterioridad he tenido el honor de hablar a V.E. sobre la necesidad absoluta que hay de que la Comisaria Gral. de Coahuila ty Tejas sc trasladw a Bejar clonde eslando en el centro de · las tropas poclra con mas oportunidad practicar las operaciones que le perlenecen on una utilidad palpable del Servicio. Pudiera cituarse una SubComisa o Pagucluria en la Cuidad de Bejar, pero cslo no seria masque aumentar gastos mediante a que la Coma. Gral. dotado compltenlemte. prestaria mejor este Servicio, al paso q. hpy es absolutamente inutil en Leona Vicario distante mas de doscienlas leguas de los puntos en q. estan cituadas las tropas cuyas cuentas es de su clever arreglar. Por tales razones ruego a V.E. de nuevo tenga la vondad de acordar con el E.S. Presidente la medida q. he propuesto siempre q. asi fuera de su Superior Agrado. Dios y Lihertad Goliad Octe. 3. de 1835. Martin Perfecto de Cos E.S. ~linistro de la Guerra y Marina. Mejico. [In margin:] Consulta de nuevo las traslacion de la Comisaria GI. de Coahuila y Tejas, a la Ciudad de Bejar. Octe. 26-35- Ynsertese a Hoda. pa. que unida ala Comunicon. q. sele dirijio sre. el particular acuerde con el E.S.P. la resolon. q. tenga pra. convcnte.

[734] [COS to UGARTECHEA]

[Martin Perfecto de Cos, Goliad, to Domingo de Ugartcchea, Bexar, October 3, 1835, calling for mililarv reports from companies in Texas. J "

J73!1] [FISHER L,d AUSTIN]

Gonzales, October 3, 1835. .your letter of September 27, has been received and we are rejoiced lo hear that volunteers are on their ma~ch to our assistance. The rubieon is crossed, and it is now of vital importance to Texas that we should be immediately reinforced.

About 12 o'clock on the 20th the military, about two hundred in number, arrived on the western bank of the Guadalupe, and attempted the passage of the river, but were repulsed by eighteen men (the whole force then in this place,) they then encamped on the mound al DeWill's. On the 1st of October, about 12 o'clock, they then look up their march and encamped about seven miles ahovc this place, in a very strong position. Suspecting that their object in this movement was either to wait for reinforcement from San Antonio, or to cross al the upper crossing, about fifteen miles above, it was determined to attack them before their plans could be carried into execution. Accordingly, on the same night, the whole force, on foot, amounting to about one hundred and sixty men, from the 9uadalupe, Colorado, and La Baca, commanded by Colonel ). H. Moore, crossed the river, attacked the enemy about daybreak, and put them flight without the loss of a single man. Inasmuch as we expect a formidable attack from Ugartachea, should the forces long remain idle, the determination is lo attack San Antonio, as soon as we can receive reinforcements, to prevent this country, as far as possible, from becoming the battle ground. This committee, therefore, earnestly desire that you would use your influence to send to this place, as soon as possible, as many volunteers as possible.

Yours respectfully, Wm. Fisher, Chairman

Colonel S. F. Austin, Chairman of committee of Austin.

[736)

[SANTA ANNA PROCLA!VIATION]

[Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Mexico, October 3, 1835, promulgating a decree of Congress and abolishing all slate legislatures and making all_ state officials subservient to national officials.]

[737] [SAWYER Lo HOUSTON]

New York Octr. 3d 1835

Dear Sir.

] am happy Lo hear of your being in Texas, and shall be still more so on learning that you have settled there. As I am a proprietor in both the Rio Grande & Texas, & Color~do & Red River cos., 1 feel some hopes upon the presence of a friend on the spot, that my speculation will not turn out so bad as prospects now would cause us to apprehend. The troubles with [illegible] prevent the population of the colony, & will retard its settlement until they end, either in the purchase of Texas by the United States, or in the independence of the colony. We believe that our government has the subject under consideration lo bring about the cession indirectly by agreement with Signor Almonte the comr. now in Washington to throw the boundary back to the Rio Grande de! Norte. That will bring it about without any congressional action on the subject, unless an appropriation were required to meet the payment of the consideration of the purchase, which, as it would no doubt turn out a good speculation, Congress would do that, without deciding as to the future disposition of the country. As to the other alternative, an act authorising the purchase, I apprehend much difficulty in its passage. All the conflicting interests between the different sections of our union would be brought to bear, & even the slave question would be agitated. The first move would be preferable; but we have no certain news whether any & what progress has been made in bringing it about. You would render an act of immense service, if you could be instrumental any way of bringing it about, & would in that case stand foremost among the candidates for its government. But should war ensue, & an attempt made to gain its independence by arms, the country would be ruined; the disorderly reign then for years, & we all die before we could realise any thing from our large expenditures. Mr. Jno. Chas. Beales our Empresario is there some where on our tract on the Nueces, but we cannot get a line from him. This puts us much back, as we know not what to do for want of information. It was my intention lo have gone about this time to my old District in N. C. to have raised a party of settlers lo send on, but 1 cannot stir from his six months silence. His lady & children are here but can get no tidings from him. 1f you can send him word how much distress & injury this unaccountable silence occasions, you will do us a great

favour. Should you lravel Lhru any parl of our lwo companys lands, or gain any informalion regarding Lhem, & Lhe besl quarlers for locations, I shall Lake il as a great favour to receive the benefit of it. There are frequent opportunities by land & water. I am acquainted with Madame Zavala who is here, & goes on with a friend of mine from this lo Galveston, where she hopes lo meet her husband. Pray act only on the defensive, but if you are invaded, our companies will both sympalhise in your cause, and make it our own as far as our absence will admit, I mean by good wishes, contributions in money & stores & in fact every way we can. Should you declare independence, I hope the just rights of our companies will be acknowledged & all locations afforded for the settlement & sale of our lands. Before I conclude, I must beg of you lo beware of Mr. Hotchkiss, who I have reason to know is much incensed against you. I understand he is about Nacogdoches, & his sister left here for Texas, & her brother in law last week. It is from some expressions , used in relation to his conduct with Creek Indians. I hope you will not have come in contact before this meets you; but that you will be willing as I know you are able lo enler into satisfactory explanations, & that you may become friends & useful citizens. Had I youth & strength enough, I would be along side of you, instead of this epislatory substitute. Wishing you all health & happiness I remain your old & true friend Lemuel Sawyer [Addressed:] Genl. Samuel Houston Texas [Endorsed:] Recd Deem. 23d 1835

(738) [TRAVIS to JONES]

San Felipe, October 3rd 1835

Dear Sir-

I avail myself of the opportunity of writing to you by Mr.

Morton-

The most important news on the carpet is that received by express from Gonzales night before last. Lelters from Captains Coleman, Moore, & Albert Marlin, dated the 30th Seplr note "that the Mexicans appeared in force say 125 to 150 men, on the weslcrn bank of the Guadalupe, & encamped on that day- That

on the 29th therl' wm· only 18 Americans in arms al Gom.aks-that on the 30th there were 15O-collcclcd from Bastrop Colorado & Wa~hington - & lhat rcinforcemcnls were daily arming. Thal they would elccl a commander in chief on Lhal day & the probability was the Americans would allack the Spaniards that evening - Coleman says - ":X ou need not be surprised, if you hear we have allackccl lhem Lhis day"- They cxpcclt·cl reinforcements from San Antonio & therefore Lhcy call for aid & that with dispatch - All that were prepared have gone from hrrc - Jack - Ewing, Somervell, Jackson Anderson, Bradly, Grayson &c &c &c put off yesterday & some are going daily..:.. Col. · Austin approves the whole & w'rites clay & night in Lhe cause-all arc united, our frqntier is attacked & who says now Lhal we shall not fight? Lel ·us go al it heart & hand-stand up like men & have nothing to fear-I have been quite sick with influenza, or I would haw gone. I expect to go in a few days. I) wan l to hear of Capt. W. Marlin's taking the field-f\ltho I regret the course he has pursued yet I would regret lo loose his valuable services in the field-where he can be more useful than most men & more serviceable than in any other dr.parlmr.nt. You may say to the people of Fort settlement that among others I am a candidate for the Convention & will feel grateful for their suffrages, if they believe me qualified lo serve them al this important crisis. My compliments lo Mrs. Jones and family.

~ ,, 'I I :j i ! i ! i

Your friend W. Barret Travis

I Addressed: I Capt. Randal Jones Fort Settlement

• I

[739] jUGARTECHEA to COS]

C:omanda. pral. de Coahuila Y Tcjas.= No. 214.= El cstado rcholucionrio en qe. actualmente se halla lo interior de las Colonias impidc pr. ahora qe. lcnga efccto cl amparo de la posecion de los ter~cnos quc aclualmtc. pocen las rtil111s Cado y Conchatcs, ssgun lo d1spucsto pr. cl Supremo Gohno. y VS. :-c sirve prevcnirmo en sus nolas de 2B. dd corrlc. a qw: contcslo.= Dios y liherlad Bejar Octuhrc :l. clc IBHS.= Domingo de Ugartcehca.= Sr. Comte. gral de cslos Esaclos.

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