Supposing this order to have been given in good faith, its sole object could have been to protect the Texans from assaults by American Indians. There was no reason whatever to apprehend that the Texans, Americans them- selves, and daily receiving supplies from their country- men, would make hostile incursions into the American territory. The Mexicans had neitlj^r the disposition nor the abihty to invade the United States. There was, more- over, no proof that the American Indians intended any aggressions upon the Texans. The army was stationed on the frontier of Texas for objects very different from those which were avowed. Commanded by a General devoted to the cause of annexation, it gave countenance and support to the Texans in their struggle ; and, should more efficient aid be needed, no small portion of its men, arms, and ammunition, would readily find their way into the Texan camp. It is to be observed, moreover, that Gaines was not directed to prevent American citizens from compromitting the neutrahty of the Government.
Regiments raised in the Southern States might freely pass his tent on their way to wage war against a friendly power. In deference to our treaty stipulations, Indians were to be restrained from entering Mexico ; but foes far more dangerous to the Mexicans than savages were to have free admittance. General Gaines was a willing in- stniment ; and, in acknowledging the receipt of the orders sent to him, showed that lie thoroughly understood the purposes for which they were issued. "Should I (said he in his letter to the Secretary of War of 29 th March, 1836,*) find any disposition on the part of the Mexicans or thp-ir red brethren to menace our frontier, I cannot but deem it my duty, not only to hold the troops of my command in readiness for action in defence of our slender frontier, but to anticipate their lawless movements by crossing our supposed or imaginary national boundary, and meeting the savage marauders wherever they may be found in their approach towards our frontier." In other words, he would march to the rescue of Texas, should the Mexican forces advance into the revolted province. A few days after the date