attribute to the present war in Texas. I beg to assure you that this vessel has been treated more like an enemy than a friend. I beg that this subject may be presented to this Government without delay, and to know if United States vessels of war shall be debarred from coming into port. I have frequently, at the request of the American merchants in this place, written to Pensacola for small vessels of war that could cross the bar in order to give better protection to the American commerce in case of need. This vessel has been sent for that object; but it seems that the military commandant has taken it as an insult, and has treated the subject accordingly. As this country has been so often the scene of civil warfare, it is reasonable to suppose that it is not in their power at all times lo give that protection to foreign commerce which is required: so that, in a case of that kind, if vessels of war are debarred from coming in, we are naturally left without any protection whatever. I enclose you a copy of a communication received from Lieutenant Osborn, of the schooner Jefferson, who came on shore yesterday, by which you will perceive that he and his boat's crew were grossly insulted, by being imprisoned, and myself treated in a manner, as a public agent, that no Government ought to allow. I have resided in this country as American consul for twelve years past, and this is the first time I have ever had any dispute with the authorities of the place, and I attribute the whole to the existing warfare now raging in Texas.
I have the honor to be, sir, Your very obedient, humble servant, Geo. R. Robertson.
To P. Ellis, Esq.,
Charge d' Affaires, Mexico.
[2988] [URREA to GARAY]
Descle el Atascosito con fecha 6 de mayo, dije entre otras cosas al Sr. coronel D. Francisco Garay. - Reservada. - Mayo 7. - Amigo mio: pais esta noche piensan estos hombres tener junta de generales para conversar: se trate de ahandonar la linea de Goliad, Copano, Bejar &c: esle nuevo paso de cohardia y mala disposieion
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