Standard [Clarksville, TX], June 23, 1860
Belknap, Tex., June 9th, 1860.
Major DeMorse, Clarksville Standard:
Dear Sir:—Being on the eve of marching, I drop you a few lines although there is nothing of interest to chronicle. Yesterday we received orders from Lieut. Col. Smith; (Col. Johnson being absent,) to march to old Fort Shadminski, which I think is situated on Otter creek, in or near the Witchita mountains. Our orders are to start on the 10th inst. The Reserve Indians are getting scared at finding so many volunteers on the Frontiers, and they have sent a request to the Governor of Texas, to send Commissioners to the Reserve and they will open their houses, and wigwams, and show said commissioners through their caballados, to shew that they have none of the Texas stolen horses, or other plunder. Of course they will be able to establish their honesty. At least, if they have not time to hide any and all plunder and destroy all traces of guilt, (if they are guilty,) they are not as shrewd as I give them credit for being. From Shadminski, the Commissioners will start for the reserve accompanied by an escort of soldiers (volunteers.)
After the investigation of the Reserves, establishes their honesty, (which it will,) Col. Smith’s opinion is that we will move further out into the wild Comanche county, and whip somebody. The reserve Indians have offered to furnish 100 warriors as guides, for the command, and show them Texas’ enemies, and the stolen property, and all they ask is protection from their enemies, the wild Comanches. Prodigiously good and disinterested ain’t they? Our election resulted in electing M. T. Johnson, Col; Capt. Smith; Lieut. Col; Capt. Fitzhugh, Major. The staff is generally courteous and kind. They are well thought of by the companies.
Court week, here, there were several men killed in the county. Some in private squabbles; some in resisting the civil laws. Some of our commissioned officers have resigned their commissions, and we have been compelled to discharge some—cause drunkenness; and our law says dishonorably discharged for the first offence of intoxication. Gambling, horse racing, or anything of the kind not allowed in or near camp.
The command will have to do what it does do, very soon, for there has been only 90 days rations for 400 men, furnished, dating from 15th May. Powder, lead and caps have been issued to the amount, for each man, powder 4 52-87 ozs., lead 7 31-87 ozs., caps 34. You will instantly perceive from the heavy issue, that something terrible is in contemplation; when I inform you that we have nearly lead enough to lead our shot guns and six shooters once. None need be surprised if the startling news suddenly bursts upon them that the whole Indian world is completely annihilated, by the invincible well armed and prodigally furnished Texas Rangers. Taking everything into consideration I would respectfully suggest to his Excellency the propriety of sending out commissioners to the wild Commanches and investigate and inspect their camps, caballados, weapons and munitions of war; and if they have plenty to eat, and no defensive arms, that we the Invincibles be sent out against them immediately after the first rain that may fall, and cause our arms to be in excellent working condition. “Humbug.”
More anon. For the present adieu!
Respectfully yours &c.,
A. M. Gass.