(2981] [MORSE to------]
Natchitoches, May 5th, 1836. My Dear Sir - The war in Texas is closed - there is no doubt of the fact. - Gen. Gaines has recalled his flag which was despatched to the head quarters of Santa Anna and ordered his men to return lo Fort Jessup. I send you enclosed a list of the Mexican officers killed and taken in the late battle - we have correct information from more than twenty letters. Santa Anna crossed the Brassos at Fort Bend twenty miles below San Felippe, with six hundred men; after he took his position near Lewisburg he was joined by five hundred more. He immediately commenced in throwing up a breast work - but before he had finished his breast works Gen. Houston charged upon him with only six hundred men and two six pounders. Houston led the charge in person, he kept up a brisk fire upon the Mexicans, with his field pieces charged with grape and canister shot, but not a rifle was fired till within pistol shot of the Mexican line, when Houston formed his line and rushed over their works, at the same time pouring in upon them a most destructive and deadly fire from their rifles. The moment Houston's men cleared the Mexican breast works, they drew their pistols and knives, and the work of death commenced in earnest - the Mexicans broke in every direction. The battle lasted not more than ten minutes. At the time of the charge, Santa Anna was sitting in his carriage in the read, surrounded by his staff; he immediately mounted his horse and rode off. This was about four o'clock in the afternoon. - Houston followed the dispersed Mexicans till dark. Santa Anna was so closely pursued that he took to the swamp, and was taken the next day in the disguise of a common soldier, he was not recognised till brought to Houston's camp; when he asked to be brought to Houston, and then disclosed himself. He was immediately recognised and em- braced, by those of his officers who were present. There were several officers in Houston's army who had known him in Mexico, and immediately re,;og!!is':!d him. He has offered to surrender all his force in Texas, munitions of war, &c. - to acknowledge the absolute indcpendedce of Texas, and to remain a hostage for the ratification of the treaty. Houston led the charge most gallantly, had his horse kiUed under him, and received a wound in the leg. I have not time to give you further particulars,
Your obedient servant, P.A. Morse.
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