troops withdrew to the other side the ferry in canoes, so that when the commander of the party arrived on the banks of the river he was met hy that ohstacal, Notwithstanding which, he solicited an interview-with the Alcalde but in vain altho he was informed that within three hours he would come, nto being in town, when that time expired the next Regidor made his appearance and made k11own that he had to consult with the Political Chief of the Brazos and without his sanction he could not, nor would not deliver up the cannon, I was informed of this occurrence and the11 ordered the commandant of the party to withdraw, in the belief that on the political Chiefs answer the gun would be delivered up, so far from that however, the inhabitants of the town acting on the wrong belief that the troops retired thro fear came out, pass the river and committing the outrage of attacking the party and intimating surrender to the Commandant. A report was made to me of that event and that besides the Citizens of Gonzales 300 men from San Felipe had collected and as I did not wish to see that small force compromitted, I ordered it to withdraw, and shall march tomorrow with the knowledge of the Commandant General with a force of every discription of arms, sufficient lo prove that the Mexicans can never suffer themselves to be insulted. There are in the Colo11y some individuals, who, like yourself know me to be frank in my proceedings, and also that I possess the character and energy characteristic of my country. I may therefore assure you that if you make use of your influence with the political Chief to have the gun delivered up lo me, wherever it may meet me, from that spot I will return immediately, fi not I will act militarily and the consequence will be a war declared by the Colonists, which shall be maintained by .the Government of the nation with corresponding dignity. I know you are right to complain of Thompsons proceed- ings, which I do not approve much less as they are arbitrary, and having no authority for acting in such a manner but some sacrifice is requisite in favor of peace, which, if it disappear from Texas, will be caused 011ly by the oposition of the colonists to what is just, and I am convinced of your good sentiments in favor of your adopted Country, notwithstanding your sufferings and have not doubt that in favour of this country you will continue to make fresh sacrifices and cooperate effectually in removing the evils which threaten, for which important purpose you may reckon upon me for the use of my influence with the Supreme Government and with the Comman- dant General, and I can assure you if peace should be sincerely established and unalterably so, the introduction of troops into
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