The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Volume 20, July 1916 - April, 1917 Page: 380

The Southwestern Historical Quarterly

buried in his arms. This position seemed to be more agreeable
to him than the bed, but his weakness would not allow of this
for a long time-he rose and laid down several times during -the
night, which he passed in the room adjoining his bed room on
a pallet before the fire.
At day break Mr. Perry and Austin Bryan15 arrived. The
General was perfectly sensible, he was indeed so. until the last-
he immediately recognized them-they were told that there were
no hopes. At about nine o'clock A. M. Doctor Leger applied a
blister to his breast, and afterwards General Austin observed,
"Now, I will go to sleep," and with his left elbow on my leg
and his cheek resting on his hand, he seemed to be more at ease.
Austin was on his right also supporting him. He would at in-
tervals ask for a little tea, and during one of those intervals
uttered his last words in a very faint voice, which were, if not
exactly in these words yet the import most certainly was, as
heard and distinctly understood both by Austin and myself.
"Texas recognized. Archer told me so. Did you see it in the
papers ?"
In about a half hour afterward he ceased to breathe, in the
presence of Mr. Perry, Dr. Archer and Austin Bryan.
Dear Guy,
I have now concluded by melancholy task. If your uncle
had been spared for a few years longer, I would, by my atten-
tion to his business, probably have learned from himself many
particulars relating to his life which would interest you. Those
which I possess I have written with much prolixity, in order to
help my memory as I proceeded. If you can cull out as many
lines as I have written pages, I shall be most amply repaid. You
mnay rely on the truth of all I have written; for I would not set
down that of which I was not positive and certain.
Should I at some future period revisit Mexico, in either a
public or private capacity, it will afford me much pleasure to aid
you in collecting material for 'your uncle's life. I left many
friends there, and by their influence could have access to many
State papers.
Wishing you all success, I remain yours,
GEO. L. HAMMEKE N
'Austin's nephew.

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