WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1836
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officers of the army, under my command, of your unceasing and efficient labors in the cause of Texas, when few could be found who would place their shoulder to the wheel, fewer who breasted the storm at home, and remained soldiers, true, faithful, untiring and vigilant. The saddle and bridle now presented to you, are said to have belonged to General Cos, of the army of Mexico. He who proudly vaulted into it a second time to meet the rifles of freemen, must now give place to one whose name, unlike that of its former owner, will never be uttered by the people of Texas unaccom- panied by a prayer for his happiness and prosperity. The accompanying communication of the officers is enclosed to your notice, and I beg leave to tender to your kind acceptance, assurances of my very friendly regard. Sam Houston, Commander-in-Chief. P. S. A number of the officers belonging to the army are absent on detached service, who would gladly have united with the officers present in this expression of their gratitude for your services in the cause of Texas. Houston. 1 Temple ll. Mon·ow Collection of Houston Mcite1·ials. This letter with the names of the officers attached, as well as Christy's acknowledgments, appeared in the Commercial Bulletin (New Orleans), June 4, 1836. 2 See Houston to William Christy, March 29, 1836.
FAREWELL TO THE SAN JACINTO SOLDIERS 1
Head Quarters, San Jacinto, May 5, 1836. COMRADES: Circumstances connected with the battle of the 21st render our separation, for the present, unavoidable. I need not express to you the many painful sensations which that neces- sity inflicts upon me. I am solaced, however, by the hope that we shall soon be reunited in the great cause of Liberty. Brigadier- General Rusk is appointed to command the army for the present. I confide in his valor, his patriotism, his wisdom. His conduct in the battle of San Jacinto was sufficient to ensure your confi- dence and regard. The enemy, though retreating, are still within the limits of Texas; their situation being known to you, you cannot be taken by surprise. Discipline and subordination will tender you invincible.
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