R evolutiqn Ftares A gain
77
The Indians were not just silent spectators. Their attitude along the northern frontier has been noted. Disregard for Spanish authority was becoming widespread and developing into insolence. By the summer of 1812 the changed attitude was apparent even along the Rio Grande. Un- mistakable signs were the indications of propaganda activity. Governor Salcedo was both puzzled and perturbed by a letter from Captain Busta- mante. The veteran Indian fighter reported that the natives along the Rio Grande displayed an uncommon knowledge of Insurgent doctrines. It was strange, he declared, to hear the Indians questioning the right of the King over the people, and asserting the right of self-government, and protesting love of liberty and freedom. Bustamante noted that they were becoming more hostile and daring in their raids against unprotected settlers, and brazenly friendly with the leaders of the Revolution. This was particularly true in the vicinity of Revilla and Camargo, where it was generally asserted that Gutierrez was on his way with fifteen thousand men and eight thousand Indians.ST Organization, of tlie Gutierrez-Magee e::cpedition. As summer ap- proached, revolutionary activity in Natchitoches increased. The common topic of discussion was the plan to enter Texas and join the leaders of the movement for independence the moment war was declared against Great Britain. The merchants and traders were doing an unprecedented business. Supplies for the projected expedition, arms and munitions, horses and mules, even cannon were being purchased or traded openly. Groups of partly armed men, some drunk, some sober, swarmed through the busy frontier outpost on their way to the Neutral Ground area. They spoke freely of the large numbers who were assembling at different points near the Sabine. A printed circular was widely distributed with a view to encouraging volunteers to meet at the rendezvous on the Sabine. The pamphlet boasted of the armament already gathered there, and made the assertion that an army of almost five hundred was practically ready for the great adventure. The circular appears to have been printed in Rapides, where General Adair, of the famous Burr Conspiracy, was at this time. Adair seems to have been in active communication with Gutierrez. On all sides it was asserted that the expedition being organized to liberate Texas and Mexico would be ready to start within a month. By July Gutierrez had definitely made up his mind to become the leader of the expedition. Salcedo, Monclova, July 18, 1812; Juan Fermin to M. Salcedo, Camargo, October 22, 1812, Bexar Arcllives. S7Bustamante to M. Salcedo, Camargo, June 7, 1812, Bexar Arclliv,s.
Powered by FlippingBook