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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1842
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those provided by law. If they persist in their determination, they must depend upon their own resources, as they will receive no countenance from this government-as you are doubtless the commander and have orders to cross into the enemy's country. News up to the evening of the 20th is received from N [ew] Orleans, assuring us of a hearty cooperation from that source, in case of an invasion. Various rumors are current of preparations to invade us by Mexico-but nothing tangible. The consul at New Orleans writes that the Mexican Government has purchased the Steam Ship Natchez to blockade Galveston harbor. Every- thing must have direction. I forwarded your orders day before yesterday. I will not fail to annoy and injure Mexico all that I can within the power and means that I have at my disposal. Sam Houston [Rubric] :u•Houston's Private Executive Record Book," p. 101, courtesy of Mr. Franklin Williams. For Alexander Somervell, see Volume II, 493. To WILLIAM HENRY DAINGERFIELD 1 Executive Department, City of Houston, March 25, 1842. To Honorable William Henry Daingerfield, &c. Sir, It being necessary, in the present situation of war affairs, that Texas should have a duly authorized agent in the United States, for the purpose of giving proper direction to such aid as the citizens of that country may be disposed to render in the present struggle with Mexico: You are hereby duly author- ized and empowered to act as such agent, and are appointed a special commissioner of this government for the purpose above refe1Ted to. Orders have been issued to Brigadier General Alexander Som- ervell, to repel the Mexican forces, which are threatening our country with invasion and to make reprisals for the plundering of San Antonio by carrying the war across the Rio Grande into the enemy's territory; nor is it 1ny intention to relax in rny efforts until due satisfaction is obtained from Mexico for the rnany in- juries she has inflicted upon ou1· country and countrymen; and the recognition of our independence accorded by that nation. Detailed instructions will be furnished you from time to time by the Secretary of War and Navy. In the meantime, you will
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