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WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 184,2
103
whatever assistance and support we are to receive from abroad should be concentrated at the point of rendezvous, ready for an effective onset. If, however, we are disappointed in obtaining assistance we have had reason to expect, we shall, nevertheless, march to the conflict, depending alone for success upon our own . strength. The issue has been made up, and must be tried. Where freemen meet in arms the degraded hosts of despotism, none can doubt the result. The Single Star will soon resume its westward course. Let those ·who would be lighted by its rays to victory and renown, come, and come quickly. There is yet time for those who would participate with us in the perils and achievements of the future, to reach our standard. Will it be, that Americans- that gallant Kentuckians, will linger within view of the field of strife and glory, while Americans fight for the principles and institutions of freedom? The Great High Priest of Abolition, the tyrant and disgrace of the Western world, has taunted their chivalry-has challenged them to the combat-will they not come? You will bring as many men as you can into the service. The number you bring will determine your rank and command in the army. Let your companies be well organized and prepared for the field-otherwise, they will be heavy burthens upon our impover- ished country, and will become dissatisfied from our inability to supply their wants. Companies must consist, at least, of fifty six men, rank and file, be completely armed and ammunitioned, and clothed and provisioned for six months. The arms may be rifles, yagers, or muskets with bayonets; and the provisions of pilot bread, or flour, bacon, sugar, and coffee. For all of which expenses remuneration must be expected from the enemy-they have kindled the war and must support it. The rendezvous for troops coming by water has been established at Corpus Christi, where they will report within the time above specified. Sam Houston [Rubric] 1 "Houston's Private Executive Record Book," pp. 138-139, courtesy of Mr. Franklin Williams.
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To E. L. R. WHEELOCK 1
Private
Houston, Texas, May 13th, 1842.
To Colonel E. L. R. Wheelock. Dear Sir,
Your favor by the politeness of Mr. Raymond, reached me in due season, and I will avail myself of his return
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