TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1846-1859
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in the campaign against Mexico, and not to such as might be called for to operate upon our Indian frontier. Had he been aware of the requisition made by Col. Harney for these com- panies, and the service for which they were intended, I have no doubt but that he would have excepted them from the operation of that order. By the last mail I wrote to the Sec'y of War, enclosing a copy of the Requisition made upon me by Col. Harney, and of the correspondence between Major Fauntleroy and myself upon this subject, and have urged him to authorize me to have the troops mustered into the service. To that communication, as well as accompanying correspondence, I beg leave to call your attention for a more full understanding of every thing in con- nection with this subject. It had been arranged between Col. Harney and myself, that the five companies above mentioned, would occupy positions at suitable points, commencing on the Trinity River at the East, and extending westward to the San Antonio River. In this way, a chain of posts would have been formed along the whole line of the frontier, and as they were directed to communicate frequently with each other, a channel of commun'ication would thus have been regularly kept open between this State and the theatre of war, affording facilities for conveying dispatches, and any intelligence that might be deemed ·important. These companies were promptly raised, though composed mostly of our frontier citizens, who are poor, and could not, at this season of the year, leave their homes without great incon- venience. They have encountered much trouble and expense, in furnishing themselves with good horses and arms, blankets, and every thing necessary to a full equipment, and now, just as they are, in all respects, properly equipped and fully organ- ized, they are informed that their services are not. required. Under these circumstances, I need not tell you of the injury, not to say actual injustice, which will be done these men, if they are not received into the service. But besides this consid- eration, there is another of higher nature, to which I will call your notice-and that is the protection of our extensive and exposed western frontier. I profess to have some acquaintance with the character of the Indian tribes upon the borders of this State, and am convinced that the presence of these companies is absolutely essential to keep them quiet, and prevent difficul-
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