Indian Papers of Texas and the Southwest, Vol. V

376

panied by one or more soldiers or other white men to speak for them. The Agents however sensitive cannot reasonably object to so simple a request. If they do I look to you sir as an officer free from their prejudices and anxious to protect the lievs and prop- erty of the people. When the Indians cross Red river as an officer of Texas I shall regard all Indians seen south of that stream unescorted, as enemies and treat them accordingly. At the request of Mr. Romos employee of Mr. Duff I send 5 or 6 of my men with him into your camp, and ask for them at your hands protection from insult by Indians or others while there. Circumstances not of my seeking induce me thus plainly to address you as a United States Officer.

Very Respectfully Your Obedient Servant JOHN HENRY BROWN Camp Comdg

Maj Thomas U S A

Comdg Indian Escort

Sergeant White, the bearer hereof is in command of the party.

J. H.B.

L Hd Qrs Indian Escort-Coperas Creek Texas August 8th 1859

Capt J H Brown

Comdng Texas State Troops Halladays Creek Texas Sir,

Your communication of the 6th inst was re- ceived this morning by the hands of Sgt. White. I am sorry to learn from you that any suspicions against the Indians of the Brazos Reserve should still exist-as I used the utmost diligence to prevent them from leaving the line of march, and had hoped that I had succeeded in preventing them from going to any dis- tance from my command up to this time. I was informed by Maj Neighbors the evening we were encamped at Judge Harmans on next evening that all the citizens in the neighborhood had had an

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