Indian Papers of Texas and the Southwest, Vol. V

133 was necessarily embarrassed from the short notice he received. My fears for you were for a time increased by the accounts brought back by the discarded members of the Company, who to bolster up a tolerable account of themselves must need disparage the Company. This they did to a very limited extent. Your report places these men where they deserve to be found. On account of their friends I will not publish their names, tho it is enjoined by-the Regulations of the Army. While on this point let me suggest that in the discipline and proper obedience of your men will depend the character & expediency of the serv1ce. I shall be proud to see the volunteers in the present service not only sus- tain, but add to the reputation of "Texas Rangers." I am satisfied that it would be consistent with the good of the service to increase your company to one hundred men. I do not however consider myself empowered to confer authority to do so. The highest number allowed is the Aggre[g]ate 88 to int -of 4 Privates-4 Sergts-4 Corpls-1 Farrer & block-2 Mu- sicians. 1 first and 1 second lieut. making 88 into the Captain. You are authorized to fill your Company up to this number. Lieut Burleson has been informed and under your instructions will act accordingly. The customary place in accordance with the laws of the late Republic relative to property that might be recovered from the Indians by the troops was a restoration of all the articles to those parties claim out who properly identified them; and an equal distribution of the remainder among the command who captured them, either in bulk, or by the division of the proceeds of their sale, as might be found practicable. It is there my desire that you continue this separation as I deem it the most correct and just to all parties interested. Respectfully Your Obet. Servant, (signed) P. H. BELL

No. 105 LETTER FROM C. M. CONRAD TO P. H. BELL War Department

Washington Sept. 30 1852

Sir, The President has referred to this Department your Excellency's letter of the 20th ultimo with the documents therein

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