Geography

Reply to request concerning intelligence about the eastern Comanches. Notes that they are fierce, and warlike, yet generous with friends. Describes Comanche ceremonies with buffalo hides and tobacco in detail as well as women's roles in these. Also discusses the eastern Comanches trade of captured horses for arms and powder with western Comanches and other tribes. Mentions that their Actual numbers and military strength as well as the number of rancherias are difficult to determine due to their nomadism. Furthermore, Cabello discusses their geographic location and reports the name of some chiefs. Finally there is a discussion of the character of the chiefs and of the Comanches in general, as well as a description of the electoral system of chiefs. (R. Graham) (1980)

Mentions that Huaes have moved 100 leagues down Missuri River and states that they are enemies of Comanches. Also mentions that it is not possible for colonist to encorporate them into their colonies. Furthermore, states that he cannot observe British movements into the area and suggests that Louisiana governor be Charged with that duty. (R. Graham) (1980)

Concerns choice of site for new settlement. Discusses the need to reconoitre area by land and sea and mentions the capitan Landrin (massacred by Indians in 1779). (R. Graham) (1980)

Mentions that Yupes and yamparizos are the only groups opposed to peace. Also discusses alliance with these for war with Apaches. (R. Graham) (1980)

King requests that every six months the officials send to him information on Weather, crops, and availability of water. (M. Bowman) (1980)

Discussion of failure of crops. Mentions that sugar Cane, Chile, beans, and corn are the only crops that can be sown in Texas. Due to the extreme heat and drought of 1785 the crops are a failure. Also mentions that cattle are very thin because of lack of corn. (R. Graham) (1980)

Reports of snow and icestorms at Bexar causing cattle to die. Mentions news Cabello received from travelers that Lipanes are killing cattle and discusses moves to capture them. (D. Coates) (1980)

Monthly report of activities by the troop at Bexar. Included are descriptions of lands traversed while in search of enemies. (D. Coates) (1980)

Cabello outlines the patrol's movements using geographical names. Intent was to encounter Indians, but only abandoned camp sites and trails were found. Also tells of loss of horses and mules due to a violent Norte. (D. Coates) (1980)

Cabello describes troop movements, patrols, and watches for Indians. Also an Indian couple arrives and he learns of wars among tribes from them. Routes taken by troops are described, named, and located by compass points in a few instances. (D. Coates) (1980)