By a gentleman from Texas, whose information may be relied on, we learn that a party of about 200 North Americans from Austin's settlemet, (sic) had set out on an expedition against the Waco Indians. This expedition is carried on against the consent of the Government of Mexico. We further understand that Col Austin had received orders not to set on foot the expedition before the next fall, , when officers would be sent from Mesico, to lead them. The settlers not relishing this proposition, volunteered and set out against the instructioins of Col. Austin.
Our informant further states that the settlers on the Colorado were forting, and were considered by the Indians the hostile party, they having killed the Indians of which we were informed some weeks ago.
We are happy to learn that the prospect of crops is excellent, and the government very tolerant.
What will be the result of the expedition against the Indians, our informant could form no opinion, nor could he tell how the conduct of the settlers would be received by the Mexican Government.
The Waco and Pawnee Indians, and people of Mexico are at war, and it was generally believed in Texas that the reason the government forbid the expedition against the Indians until fall, was an apprehension that the force which could be raised in the province would be inadequate to chastize the enemy.
We intended yesterday to offer some reflections on the news from Teas, in order to shew the necessity of augmenting the military force on our western frontier, but were prevented from the want of a sufficient knowledge of the names and strength of the respective tribes of Indians who inhadit (sic) the neighbouring provinces of Mexico. It is in vain that we have sought for information by inquiry — we are as much in want of light to day as we were yesterday.
The Comanches and the Pawnees are powerful tribes, & as warlike as numerous. That the expedition set on foot in Texas, may inflict on one or both of the tribes, an immediate injury, is not unlikely. All acquainted with the Indian character, well know that this injury will not be forgotten. Horbes (sic) of hostile Indians will pour into Texas, and the people will be compelled to take refuge in Louisiana. As to protection from Mexico, it cannot be expected. — Safety require troops on our frontier — without them, the tomahawk and scalping knife may be in use before the end of summer, in our own state and our own citizens. We call the attention of the national executive, to this subject. — La Gaz.
"By a gentleman from Texas.", National Banner & Nashville Whig, (Nashville, TN), Saturday, July 29, 1826; p. 3, col. 2.