Francisco Amangual
to
Gov. J.B. Elguezabal
April 20, 1805
Concerning state of affairs

Source: Bexar Archives, R.B. Blake Collection, Supp., Vol. V, Pg. 21.

"Answered April 29, 1805.

"The critical state of affairs at this time makes many demands on the service, all of them important.  The duties of putting this garrison in a state of defense, as well as reconnoitering along the coast and at the port of Matagorda whenever it appears that our own vessels, or those of hostile aliens, are about to land, are especially important.

"I have to be responsible for the consequences when the troops of this company and the detachments now here are scattered in so many places, as shown by the enclosed statement.  Besides I can not depend upon the residents, who, for the most part, are useless because they are so poor.  Such of them as might help are otherwise occupied with their own business.  I am urged by these circumstances to write to you so that in view of everything you may instruct me as to what I should do in such emergency cases as your sagacious discernment will have enabled you to foresee.  By this means I shall manage best to fulfill my duties, to which I am prompted by my own natural efficiency.

"May God preserve you many years.

"La Bahia del Espiritu Santo, April 20, 1805.

"Francisco Amangual (rubric)

Governor Don Juan
Bautista de Elguezabal