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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 184,2
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come quickly. The commencement of active operations will, under no circumstances, be delayed longer than the 20th of July. Companies should come fully organized, be completely armed, and clothed and provisioned for six months. The arms may con- sist of rifles, yagers, and muskets with bayonets, with ammuni- tion; and provisions-pilot bread, bacon, sugar and coffee. The expenses, however, must necessarily be borne by the troops them- selves, from the inability of the Government to render present aid. The rendezvous for troops coming by water has been estab- lished at Corpus Christi, in Western Texas, where it is desired the troops should report with all possible despatch. Your rank in the army will correspond with the number of men you bring into the service. The remuneration for all ex- penses, and for service must be borne by the enemy who have provoked hostilities. Sam Houston [Rubric] 1 ''Houston's Private Executive Record Book," pp. 133-134, courtesy of !\Ir. Franklin Williams.
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To WALTER SMITH 1
Private
Houston, Texas, May 12th, 1842.
To General Walter Smith, Consul of Texas at Mobile: Dear Sir, Accompanying this you have a communication addressed to Col. John Darrington, which you will please have the goodness to forward, so it may reach him at an early day. He has been required to give some attention to the interests of our cause and country among his friends in Alabama; and to cooperate with you in doing what can be done. I am sure you could not call upon anyone better qualified, and more disposed to discharge faithfully and efficiently his duty to the country in the present emergency. You will please have the goodness to render him all assistance in your power in advancing such plans as may be adopted for the successful prosecution of the war with Mexico. Your knowledge of the means and disposition of the people of your city and State, among whom you will operate, will enable you to act to the best advantage. The 20th day of July will be the utmost period to which the commencement of active operations can be delayed. You will, therefore, hasten on such succor as may be afforded to our cause.
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