512
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1842
•remain after the Secretary of War's order, and wish to be em- ployed in the army, I desire to know the number and what their condition is for service. I positively command, in the name of the constitution, that none go on without orders from the government; and for that reason I wish an express sent to me immediately, apprising me of everything of importance. We have to rely upon the United States for assistance, and cooperation in the invasion of Mexico. Without their aid, we are not in a condition to make war or have such means as will be required for our success. If the people of the United States once learn that the laws and the government are disregarded in Texas, we will get no help from them. No one will sustain a cause which has no head and no rule of action. They will remember the fate of those who fell with Fannin. They will recollect what followed in the train of Governor Smith's removal from office contrary to law. The excitement of a few men at this time will injure Texas much. But the people of the country and those who have farms and families will not disregard the call of the President or the rule of the constitution. Those who disregard the authorities of the country, would not be looked upon as good soldiers in the cause of constitutional liberty. Anarchy has never achieved anything useful, great or glorious. Obedience to law, order and sub- ordination, will secure all that is desirable for free men to possess. I desire that an express be sent to me that I may know what is best to be done for the country. You will communicate this to all the troops whom you may see, and have it made known-but no copy taken. Sam Houston P. S. To be communicated to the troops as per express of Maj. T. G. Western. tExecutive Record Book, No. 40, pp. 55-56, Texas State Library. :?When the Texas revolution broke out, Thomas G. Western was living at Goliad. He was the owner of considerable ranch and farming land on the Guadalupe and had a mercantile business at Goliad. When the first letters of marque' and reprisal were issued, he was sent with them to the United States. While there he raised a company of cavalry of 48 ~en (C~mpany A) which enrolled for duration of the war. He left his busmess m _the care of Caleb Bennet. When Fannin's troops were enca~ped at Goliad they forced entrance into Western's store and took from 1t goods to the :alue of $l,800, and for the purpose of picketing ~he fort .they demohs?ed w estern's home and several other houses belonging to him. These bmld-
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