TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1846-1859
40
2d. Instant, calling for seven additional mounted companies, and to say, that I am taking steps to_ comply with the requisition as soon as possible. I am assured by members of the Legisla- ture from the Red River District that the whole number can be raised in that region, upon which I have heretofore made no call. I will, however, call for one of the Companies from Rob- ertson County where I think it can be had. I informed you by Capt. Stevenson, two days since, that the Militia of the State is not organized, except in four Eastern Counties, therefore, I must call for volunteers instead of resorting to a draft. The only objection which I can apprehend will be made by men to volunteering under Col. Hamey's call, is that one Company is to be stationed at this place and one at New Braunfels. Never- theless I confidently expect the demand will be readily complied with. I apprehend we shall have several tribes of the Indians down upon our frontier, unless measures are taken to interest them on the part of the United States. In accordance with a Joint Resolution of the Legislature I shall Commission Thomas I. Smith and General Morehouse to go out amongst the several Tribes in a secret way to ascertain their designs and conciliate them should they evince any hostile ~isposition. They are well acquainted with the various Tribes and have considerable in- fluence with them. They will be engaged as spies only, as the State authorities cannot interrupt the Indian policy of the Gen- eral Government. I shall instruct them to be very prudent and cautious, and to avoid any infringement of the laws of the United States. I think there are portions of several of the friendly Tribes which could be used with good effect against the Mexicans-I will, however, communicate more fully with you upon this subject when I have the pleasure of meeting you at your quarters, which I hope will be in a few days after this reaches you. I have the honor to be, Your Obt. Servant. J. PINCKNEY HENDERSON [J. Pinckney Henderson, Executive Record Book, Number 30, Pages 62-63.1
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