The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume III

47

WRITINGS OF SAl\I HOUSTON, 1842

To WILLIAM IBA 1

Houston, Texas, May 10, 1842.

To William Iba, Esq. Sir,- Your communication of the 6th Ultimo, came to hand some few days ago. I thank you for your propositions, but am compelled to state, in reply, that the T'reasury of Texas at this time will not admit of making the contracts which you suggest. There is no author- ity with the President to make engagements of the kind, with- out the sanction of the Congress. However much, therefore, we may need the arms you could furnish, necessity compels me to forego the pleasure and advantage of entering into contract Sam Houston.

1 Executive Reconl Book, No. 40, p. 89, Texas State Library.

To GENERAL LESLIE COMBS 1

Houston, Texas, May 11, 1842.

General Leslie Combs : 2 Dear Sir,- This will be handed to you by Mr. James Lyne, who goes to the United States for the purpose of enlisting sup- port for the cause of Texas, in the strife in which the friends of liberty are about to engage. He comes to me recommended as a young gentleman of promise and character. I commend him to your regard, and solicit for him in the prosecution of his patrio- tic intentions, such countenance and aid as you may properly be- stow. For your kindness towards him you will enlarge the obligations with which I have the honor to be, very respectfully your obt. servt. Sam Houston. P. S. I addressed you immediately after the commencement of our late difficulties, and forwarded the letter to the United States by Doctor Shackelford, who was here at the time. In my note I requested your aid, in bringing to our standard a few companies of the gallant sons of old Kentucky. Since then, I have been anxiously awaiting some intelligence from you, but as yet have not received a syllable. I hope, however, you have been

Powered by