409
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1836
crossed the Brasos, but they are-treading the soil on which they are to be conquered. That he has not been already beaten, has been caused by the tardiness of some, and the apathy of others. The force of the enemy does not exceed nine hundred men. With a semblance of force sufficient to meet him, his fate is certain. If, then, you wish your country saved, join her standard. Protect your wives, your children, and your homes, by repairing to the field, where alone, by discipline and concert of action, you can be effective. The presence of the small force now in the field has divided his army. Our svies have once checked his career. Then march forward; and with the confidence of men determined to conquer, join the troops now in the field, and your enemy is cer- tainly in your power. Twenty men in number checked the force of the enemy in cro~sing the Brasos at Fort Bend. The rumor that is curculated about the Mexicans being on the Trinity, was reported at the falls of the Brasos three weeks ago. A gentle- man is in camp who says no enemy had passed there; so, like other reports, it must be unfounded. Come and free your coun- try at once; and be men ! Let those who are on the march, advance to the army. Those who do not aid Texas in her present struggle, but flee and for- feit all the rights of citizens, will deserve their fate. SAM HOUSTON Corrmw.nde1·-in-Chief
1 Yoakum, Histo1-y of Texas, II, 495.
To COLONEL BOWL 1
My friend Col. Bowl. I am busy and will only say, how da do. to you! You will get your land as it was promised in our Treaty, and you, and all my Red brothers, may rest satisfied that I will always hold you by the hand, and look at you as Brothers and treat you as such! You must give my best compliments to my sister, and tell her that I have not wore out the Mockasins which she made me; and I hope to see her and you and all my relations, before they are wore out. Our army are all well, and in good spirits. In a little fight the other day several of the Mexicans were killed, and none of our men hurt. There are not many of the enemy now in the country, and one of our ships took one of the enemys and took
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