WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1837
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San Jacinto, as you state, and I regret that it is not in My power to afford you the desired information, as I do not recollect ever to have known or heard of him in Texas- Sam Houston [Rubric] To James Paton Esqr., Paris, Ky. 1 The original letter is in the possession of Mrs. Williae Burge, Temple, Texas. !!No evidence has been found showing that Joshua Eldridge participated in the battle of San Jacinto.
To JUAN N. SEGUINL Camp Independence 16th January, 1837.
Lieut Col John N. Seguin!? Commanding Bexar Sir, Your communication of the 6th Inst, is before me and I reply to it with much pleasure! I have conversed with General F Huston on the subject of his order, a copy of which he sent enclosed, and can assure you that it was not his design to super- cede you in command with Lieut Col Swytzer, but for him to cooperate with you in any opportunity of promoting the public interests- General Huston is now directed to withdraw those of the com- mand of Bexar, who have not been able to procure cavalry, or that you have not mounted, to the Main Army, as it would be hazardous to footmen to remain at the post if the enemy should advance- Col Swytzer will be recalled to his command, leaving you in command of the Station of Bexar, so long as it can be maintained with safety and advantage to the country- Your own knowledge of facts as well as the position of the enemy, must in a great measure regulate your conduct, and you will forward reports to the General as well as to the War Department of all important information touching the movement of the enemy and the political condition of Mexico, so far as they may come to your knowledge. Your suggestion in regard to the removal of the inhabitants of Bexar, has claimed my solemn attention, and I have resolved that as great distress must be the consequence, as well as much ex- posure of life; that they shall rerna-in at their ho·mes, believing as I must that they will feel bound to return good faith and fidelity to our cause, for the humanity shown them- You may assure the Citizens who do acts of friendship to the Government and send important information to you of the enemy, which can be
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