Indian Papers of Texas and the Southwest, Vol. V

237 the enemy, ascertained by actual count, of those remaining on the field, was as followes

First Engagement-Killed 69 Second " " 7

Total 76

Our Loss First Engagement-Killed 1

Wounded 2

Second "

"

-Killed 1

1

3

2

The enemy had many wounded, but it was impossible to ascertain the number, and therefore no guess at it will be made. We captured over three hundred head of horses-most of them are in possession of the friendly Indians; some fifty or sixty are in the hands of my men. There are few if any American horses among them. We took eighteen prisoners, mostly women and children. For further particulars in regard to the operations of the Left wing I beg leave to refer you to the report of Lt A. Nelson. A Mexican boy was taken prisoner, and told a Mexican Muleteer, that the Comanches were drying and packing meat to make a campaign against the whites and Reserve Indians. It may not be true, though the bales of dry meat were there to show for them selves. The Mexican escaped the night of the twelfth. I am under weighty obligations to Capt S. P. Ross for his valuable advice and cordial co-operation during the expedition. He did much to render it successfully. I beg leave to recommend to your favorable notice Lts. Nelson, Tankersly, and Preston They performed their respective duties promptly cheerfully and ably. The conduct of the men of my command was characterized by obedience patience and perseverance. They behaved, while under fire in a gallant and soldier like manner and I think that they have fully vindicated their right to be recognized as Texas Rangeres of the old stamp. I could pout out many instances of chivalrous daring on their part during the engagements, but where all have done their parts well, nobly well, distinctions would be invidious. In justice to our Indian allies I beg leave to say they acted their part with zeal and fidelity; and they behaved most excellently on the field of battle. They deserve well of Texas and are entitled to the gratitude of the frontier people.

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