Page:Life and Select Literary Remains of Sam Houston of Texas (1884).djvu/350



, July 6, 1842


 * — The path between us has been red, and the blood of our people remains on the ground. Trouble has been upon us. Our people have sorrowed for their kindred who have been slain. The red men have come upon us, and have slain and taken some of our people. We found them and slew them, and have their women and children. They are with us and are kindly treated. Our people by you have been sold; and those with you are held in suffering. This is all bad, and trouble must be while we are at war.

I learn that the red friends want peace; and our hand is now white, and shall not be stained with blood. Let our red brothers say this, and we will smoke the pipe of peace. Chiefs should make peace. I send counselors to give my talk. Listen to them. They will tell you the truth. Wise chiefs will open their ears and hear — you shall have peace; and your people who are prisoners shall be given up to you on the Brazos, when the council shall meet there. You must bring all the prisoners which you have of ours.

You shall trade with our people at new trading-houses, and no harm shall be done to you or your people. If you are friendly and keep peace with us, your women and children shall not be harmed. You shall come to our council-house, and no one shall raise a hand against you. Let the tomahawk be buried, and let the pipe of peace be handed round council of friends. I will not forget this talk — nor my people.

Your brother,

, September 1, 1842


 * — We are far from each other; we have not shaken hands. I have heard from you. The message was peace and friendship. With your son Antonio I send my friends, Dr. Cottle and Dr. Tower, with my talk. They will make it to you.

If you can come to see me, I will make the path between us white, and it shall remain open. There is no blood between us. We have had no wars; your enemies are our enemies. They will not keep friendship with us; (334)