From the fund raised, every soldier received $7.50.
“Shucks!” exclaimed Jim to Ernest. “Did we lie out in the mud a month and a half for this?”
“Well, we helped make Texas free,” reminded Ernest.
“That’s right,” Jim agreed. “I reckon I’d do the same over again, for no money at all.”
The cabinet discussed a long time with General Houston what should be done with Santa Anna. The general still insisted that his life be spared; most of the army and the majority of the cabinet insisted that he be executed. However, finally the general won, and the cabinet decided to spare his life and compel him to sign a treaty guaranteeing to recognize the independent Republic of Texas. Colonel Rusk, the secretary of war, already had drawn up an outline of the proposed treaty, in accordance with the general’s suggestions.
The cabinet made ready to return to Galveston Island, taking Santa Anna and other captured officers with them; and the wound of General Houston was so serious, by this time, that he was ordered by the surgeons to go also.
So on May 5 the army were paraded for him. He could not be present, but the adjutant read his farewell orders.
Head Quarters, San Jacinto, May 5th, 1836.
Comrades: Circumstances connected with the battle of the 21st [of April] render our separation for the present unavoidable. I need not express to you the many painful sensations which that necessity inflicts upon me. I am solaced, however, by the hope that we shall soon be reunited in the great cause of Liberty. Brigadier-General Rusk is appointed to command the army for the present. I confide in his valor, his patriotism, his wisdom. His conduct in the battle of San Jacinto was sufficient to ensure your confidence and regard.