independence as a nation. I l was at length decided to instruct the Consultation which had adjourned from San Felipe de Austin to meet at Washington the firsl day of March, 1836, Lo make a declaration of Independence, and frame a new Constitution for the Republic of Texas. On the second <lay of March our Independence was declared by the delegates assembled at Washington, and a few days after a new Consti tu Lion was formed. A copy of the Declaration of Independence I will send you, hoping it may prove interesting to you. During the meeting of the Convention the delegates elected David G. Burnett to fill the Presidential chair until another could be elected by the people. General Sam Houston was also appointed Commanding General of all the Texan forces. Before the business of the Convention was entirely completed, news arrived that the garrison at Bexar was besieged by an army of Mexicans commanded by Santa Anna in person. The following letter from the brave Commander of the forces at Lhe Alamo serves to exhibit the state of the garrison al San Antonio, and the spirit which animated them in this dark and critical hour, and in the desperate condition in which they were placed.
[Travis to Citizens, February 24, 1836]
Immediately on the receipt of the foregoing express at San Felipe de Austin, the Governor, Henry Smith, issued the following call:
[Smith Lo the People of Texas]
As soon as Travis' letter was received at Washington the Convention, which was then assembled, immediately broke up in great disorder. The Delegates fled, some in one direction, and some in another, leaving the papers to be signed by some one whom they at thal time appointed for that purpose. A fcw of the members swam across the Brazos river in the hurry and confusion of the momcnl, rather than wait for a ferryman Lo take them over. Men were seen hurrying away from the Convention bareheaded, and going, they scarce knew whither. All was excitement and confusion. They felt that now was a time for action, and the scarce knew how to act.
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