297
No. 208 LETTER FROM GoVERNOR H. R. RUNNELS TO CAPTAIN
Austin, Texas, Nov. 2nd, 1858 Executive Department
Captain
You will make such disposition of the men under your com- mand as will secure to the exposed points on the frontier the greatest chance of receiving protection. You will take measures to render your campaign effective defensively and offensively. Should the good of the service, and the danger to the border set- tlements from Indian incursions, require the organization of an expedition to move against the Comanches in their haunts you are fully authorized and empowered to muster the requisite num- ber of men into the State service to accomplish the object-not to exceed three companies in addition to your own. You may issue an order for the election of a Major to command the battalion. You are also authorized to enter into contracts, either through yourself or your quarter-master, to supply the troops with ra- tions of subsistence and forage, transportation, ordnance and ordnance stores, medicines, camp and garrison equippage, and all other needful supplies, and the said contracts shall be as valid against the State of Texas as if made by myself. You are, of course, to be governed by law and a just regard to economy and efficiency. The instructions hitherto issued in regard to being governed by the Rules and Regulations of the United Army and the Articles of War, with the exceptions mentioned in said in- structions, are hereby revived and made of as full force as they were at the date of their issuance, January 28th 1858. Also the general instructions under date of February 13th 1858 will be of force, where they do not conflict with those of this date. I shall expect you to select tried and honorable men to fill your ranks, without such you can not meet the emergencies for which you are called into service, or the expectations of the public.
H. R. RUNNELS
Powered by FlippingBook