WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1835
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TO THE TROOPS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NACOGDOCHES 1
HEAD QUARTERS, TEXAS-DEPARTMENT OF NACOG- DOCHES, OCT. 8, 1835. DEPARTMENT ORDERS. The time has arrived when the revolutions in the interior of Mexico have resulted in the creation of a dictator, and Texas is ·compelled to assume an attitude defensive of her rights, and the property of her citizens. Our oaths and pledges to the Constitution have been preserved. inviolate. Our hopes of promised benefits have been deferred. Our constitutions have been declared at an end, while all that is sacred is menaced by arbitrary power! The priesthood and the army are to mete out the measure of our wretchedness. War is our only alternative! War, in defense of our rights must be our motto! Volunteers are invited to our standard. Liberal bounties of land 2 will be given to all who will join our ranks with a good rifle and one hundred rounds of ammunition. The troops of the department will forthwith organize, under the direction of the Committee of Vigilance and Safety, into com- panies of fifty men each, who will elect their officers, and when organized, they will report to the head quarters of the army, unless special orders are given for their destination. The morning of glory is dawning upon us. The work of liberty has begun. Our actions are to become a part of the history of mankind. Patriotic millions will sympathize in our struggles, while nations will admire our achievements. We must be united- subordinate to the laws and authorities which we avow, and freedom will not withhold the seal of approbation. Rally around the standard of the Constitution, entrench your rights with noble resolution, and defend them with heroic manliness. . Let your valor proclaim to the world that liberty is your birth- right. We cannot be conquered by all the arts of anarchy and despotism combined. In heaven and in valorous hearts we re- pose our confidence. Our only ambition is the attainmnt of rational liberty-the freedom of religious opinion, and just laws. To acquire these blessings, we solemnly pledge our persons, our property, and our lives.
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