431
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1836
1 0riginal in possession of R. Roller Richardson, Commander, U.S.N., 1·etired. Photostat in The University of Texas Library." 2 For the story of Captain John Sowers Brooks, see Texas Historical Association Quarterly, IX, 157-209.
To RICHARD G. DUNLAP 1
Near Sabine, July 2, 1836. To Gen. Dunlap : 2 Sir: Your favor of the 1st of June, reached me last evening. I regret so much delay will necessarily result before you can reach us, we will need your aid, and that speedily, the enemy in large numbers are reported to be in Texas, their forces are estimated at from 8 to 12,000. It is impossible to ascertain, but I think it somewhat exaggerated. We can meet and beat them with one-third the number. The army with which they first entered Texas is broken up, and dispersed by desertion and other causes. If they get another army of the extent proposed, it must be composed of new recruits, and men pressed into service. They will not possess the mechanical efficiency of discipline which gives the Mexican troops the only advantage they have, they will be easily routed by a very inferior force, for a portion· of that force we shall be obliged to look to the U. States. It cannot reach us too soon, there is but one feeling in Texas, in my opinion, and that is to establish the independence of Texas, and to be attached to the United States. The war has assumed a most deplorable aspect. Priest craft and fanaticism have been united against all liberal principles, to establish and maintain this, it is necessary that despotism should be created. The God of liberty will crush it, liberal principles will triumph, and Texas must be free. March as speedily as possible with all the aid you can bring, ·and I doubt not but you will be gratified with your reception, and situation. Come the most expedious route, and do not encumber yourself with baggage. Bring with you arms, and forward such aid to Texas as you can. The troops who were driven from Texas, I understand, refused to return under any circumstances. They returned home miserable, naked and disheartened. For minute particulars of our situation and much important informa- tion, I refer you to rev. S. Bacon, 3 the bearer of this, who has been actively engaged in the cause of Texas. The path of honor and wealth in Texas, is open to the patriotic and chivalrous. SAM HOUSTON Gen R. G. Dunlap, Nashville, Tenn.
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