WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 184,2
77
We are in the situation I anticipated, though it has come upon us sooner than was looked for. I have sent to learn the quantity of lead in this place, which will be forwarded by express to Hous- ton, and thence to some point, of which you will be advised, to- gether with such quantity of powder as I shall deem best. I have just ascertained that there are in Houston 2128 lbs. of lead and 1550 lbs. of powder. Brigadier General Somervell will take the command in case a brigade shall be called into the service, and other officers accord- ing to the rank they now hold. The encumbering the army with Generals, Colonels, Majors, and other officers without appropriate commands, contrary to law, inflicts an intolerable burden on the people and will not be permitted. Col. Pettus will report to you as soon as practicable, with all the facilities he can command for removing the archives. I know not what disposition you have made concerning this business. Col. Pettus will cooperate with you. You will give this subject your most efficient attention. I shall leave this place for Houston tomorrow, and should the invasion prove formidable, I shall then, repair to the enemy in person. I learn there is much excitement throughout the country, and we have every reason to expect a hearty cooperation if we have the means of conducting the war. I shall not call the troops out en rnasse. The1•e must be some corn for next winter. Sam Houston [Rubric] "'Houston's Private Executive Record Book," p. 65, courtesy of Mr. Franklin Williams.
TO A COMMITTEE AT GALVESTON 1
Galveston, March 10, 1842.
Gentlemen, I have the honor to respond to your communica- tion of this day, and to inform you that I have received very direct intelligence from Austin, in relation to the demonstrations made by Mexico upon our South Western frontier-so far as the true position of Mexico is known. It is impossible to determine from all the news which has arrived what the force of the enemy is, or to what extent they may intend to press the campaign. It is certainly the duty of every citizen, liable to military duty, to hold himself in perfect readiness to march to such point as the necessities of the service may demand or the movements of the enemy may require.
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