WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1837-1841
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authorize you , to proceed to the east, and to Red River, and give the commissions sent to you to take one, authorizing the raising of 120 men and as many more volunteers as they may think fit to turn out, so as to flog those Indians. Great care must be taken, and the cormnander will be Lieut Col Horton of San Augustine selected for the expedition and one that I trust will suffer no surprise from the enemy. You must be careful to hand and send all the commissions sent to your care, as it is important to have the expedition on foot soon. Should you go thro' to Red River directly, I wish you to send those to Nacogdoches, which are not for Red River-and those to take on directly; and let the men be raised and be ready for action. It will be greatly pleasant to me, to learn that the campaign has resulted favorably; and Successfully for our country. The friendly Indians I hope will unite with us for the sake of spoils, and the pay which they are to receive for their services. In a few days, if I can, I will be on and see the friendly Indians. It will not do to attack the enemy with. too small a force, as I wish them well chastised, and if the greatest care is not taken the Indians will steal your horses, or catch you sleeping, or attack you when you do not expect it. · Be on your Guard ! ! Sam Houston [Rubric] James W. Parker Esq. The officers of Red River must keep up constant expresses with Colonel A. Horton, at San Augustin to know when his command, can unite with, them, and receive his orders; and directions when to march upon the enemy, but particular orders will be sent to them. Be active. Houston. [Endorsed]: Copy to James W. Parker 10th June 1837 'Original letter in the possession of Mrs. Madge W. Hearne, by whose cour- tesy this copy has been made. James W. Parker was a member of the Parker family that suffered so severely, because of Indian massacres, May 19, 1836, and later. For accounts of these Indian troubles see, Lwma1· Pa7>ers, IV, Pt. 1, p. 38; II, 493; William C. Binkley, Official Co1nsvondence of the Texan Revolntion, 1895-1896, I, 4, 40, 44, 298; J. W. Wilbarger, Indian Depredcitions in Texas, 302, 339, 514, 521, 524; also see Volume I, 302-303.
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