further, that, as it regarded the contending parties, to preserve a perfect neutrality. I met here Colonel Darrington, who was formerly in the army, and who gave me the information which you will find in the enclosed printed paper maked A. He is of the opinion that the Caddo Indians cannot be concerned in attacking the Texians, and that they are but few in number and quite insignificant. General Gaines has at his disposal the 3d, 6th and 7th regiments of infantry, and the whole of the regiment of dragoons, which I should think sufficient, if he will properly dispose of them, to enable him to fulfil his instructions without calling for the brigade of volunteers from Louisiana. From what I can discover, it appears to me that it would be better to extend our military establishment at once to 20,000 men, instead of 10,000, as it has been proposed. The conduct of the Seminoles will have its influence with the other nations and tribes, and knowing the restlessness of the Indians, and their proneness to war, I am persuaded it will be most prudent as well as most economical to raise and keep up at once a force capable of effecting promptly any course proper to be pursued towards the Indians or blacks, in case of insurrection, and at the same time to defend the maritime frontier against foreign attack.
I have the honor to be, Very respectfully, Your ob't serv't. Alex Macomb, Maj. Gen. Com. in Chief.
Hon. Lewis Cass, Secretary of War.
A.
From Texas.••"Col. Darrington informs us that Gen. Houston was encamped on the west of the Brassos, at Groce's, a very strong position, with an aggregate force of about 2,500 men, and daily increasing. The troops were also in high spirits. The Mexican army on the 2d of April, were at Bastrap, on the Colorado. Texas is broken up, and all the women and children are fleeing, and in the most deplorable condition. The inhabitants of Natchitoches have subscribed largely, and sent many supplies for the relief of the fugitives. On the 14th April, Nacogdoches was safe, but deserted. On the 1st April, Col. Darrington left the body
I . '
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