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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 184,2
96
For the generous, gallant and important services you have been pleased to tender to the cause of Texas, you have my sincere and grateful acknowledgments. The war will be prosecuted against our enemy with all the energy and power we possess; and though Texas may have to contend single handed and alone, with the hireling hosts of the Mexican despot, the issue now made up will nevertheless be tried. None will doubt the result where the sons of liberty meet the minions of despotism. Our friends and brethren of other lands are invited to a full participation in the glorious destiny of the Single Star, whose brightness lures the sunny and fruitful field of the South West. The brave spirits of my dear old State, around which so many grateful recollections still linger, will not, I am sure, be found in the rear. Let them come, then- and quickly. The commence- ment of active operations cannot under any circumstances, be longer delayed than the 20th of July. The enemy have provoked a renewal of hostilities, and must suffer the consequences. They must support the war. From this source yourself and command must expect to be remunerated for your services and expenses. Your rank will be determined by the number of men you bring into service. If you bring a regiment, you will have correspond- ing command. The larger the number, the more advantageous to the enterprise. It is not necessary to extend to you a com- mission in the service until you arrive in the country when the Government will be pleased to manifest, in that way, its confi- dence and regard. Companies must be organized and consist of fifty-six men, rank and file, be completely armed and clothed, and provisioned for six months. The arms may consist of yagers, or muskets with bayonets, and provisions of pilot bread, bacon, and Sugar and coffee. These expenses must necessarily be borne by the troops from their own means. The condition of the Government Treas- ury will not admit of present assistance. The rendezvous of the troops coming by water has been estab- lished at Corpus Christi, in Western Texas, where they will report with all possible despatch. With the earnest hope of soon meeting you in Texas with a noble band of valiant spirits, ready to do signal seryice in the great cause in which we are enlisted; I have the honor to be Sam Houston [Rubri"c] "'Houston's Private Executive Record Book," pp. 127-128, courtesy of Mr. Franklin Williams.
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