WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1860
539
Authority. Fearing lest the thousand rumors in reference to my intentions respecting Mexico would operate against the acceptance of our volunteers, and the sending of arms, and wishing to press still further the necessity for the protection of Texas, upon the Federal authorities, I addressed the following letter to the Secre- tary of War, on the 12th inst: [See To Floyd, March 12, 1860, above.] Since the above was written twelve additional murders have been reported-four of them within thirty miles of San Antonio, the headquarters of the Military Department of Texas; two others within twenty-five miles of Camp Cooper. It will thus be seen that I have presented fully the condition of Texas and have used all proper means to ensure the action of the Federal Government in order to save Texas the necessity of acting for herself. The following despatch from the Secretary of War, will show that my tender of volunteers will not be accepted, and that but a very small quantity of arms can be obtained. [In this sentence Houston states the substance of the letter from W. R. Dunkard, Acting Secretary of War; therefore, the editors omit it.] How far the additional 842 men ordered to the Rio Grande will affect the turbulent population of Mexico, and prevent incursions into Texas, ren{ains to be seen. I trust that none may occur; but until means are adopted to bring the guerilla bands that infest that country under subjection of law, and they are taught that no boundary line intervenes between them and punishment, that border can feel no security; and it is the duty of the Executive to give efficient protection; if his exertions should fail in obtaining it in the legitimate source. With these facts before him, the Executive can assure his fellow citizens, that he will continue to defend the State. It is well known that the Federal troops now in Texas, engaged in the Indian service, are inefficient and not calculated to afford protection. It is hoped that Congress will make appropriations for the support of the regiment authorized to be called out by the last Congress. Should it not be, our settlements must be defended at whatever cost. There are now in the field, acting under orders, 13 commands, numbering with their reserve corps, over 600 men. By my "orders" of March 8, each county in danger is authorized to put in the field a minute detachment of 15 men, with a reserve of 10. Under·this "order" there will be soon in the field, if not already,
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