282 stipulations between them and the Government of the United States, in any event, without the unconditional surrender of the offending parties, and the return of the stolen property of our citizens. If the General Government cannot or will not protect our citizens from her Indians, and the necessity devolves on them of doing so, the whole civilized world will justify and sustain them in exercising the right. If you should find it necessary to cross Red River, you can co-operate with Maj. Van Dorn's command or not as you may think best. You will use all possible exertion to overtake and punish the offenders find them where you will, within our territory or out of it, without regard to time or pleace, excepting the Indian Re- serves only, but regarding the circumstances of your ability to do so alone. You will perceive the necessity of the greatest celerity of movement, at the same time that due caution should be exercised on attempting an expedition against any of the bands in their own strong holds, less the force of the blow should be foiled or weakened, by giving them time for preparation or escape. If you should determine not to act under this commission, you are then authorized to raise the company or designate some proper person to do so, to the efficient and proper officering and manning of which, I shall hope you will give some attention, as without good officers and good men, there is no efficient service to be expected. All reasonable expenses for ammunition will be paid to your requisition on the comptroller. The means for the pay and sub- sistence of the men will have to be provided by the Legislature, at its next regular Session. You will please let me hear from you by return of the messenger, and give me as exact an account of the situation of affairs and the requirements of the occasion as may be in your power.
Oblige very Respectfully H. R. RUNNELS
Col. James Bourland. Austin Oct 6th 1858
I have been disappointed in getting the messenger off as soon as expected, and have opened the envelope to make an addi- tional suggestion. I hope you will take no action unless it is absolutely neces- sary without communicating further with me, or until you are
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