I cannot yet say if I shall sacrifice my horses at Red river, but every exertion shall be made to save them for the public; some, if in good condition, would be fine ones, and average between $50 and $60. Should the fortune of war at length have honored me with a company,[VI-10] I hope the general will recollect his promise to me, and have my command attached to it; and on my arrival I shall take the liberty of soliciting his influence, that they may obtain the same or similar rewards, as those who accompanied Capt. Lewis; as I will make bold to say that they have in the two voyages incurred as great dangers, and gone through as many hardships.
Dr. Robinson presents his respectful compliments, and is sanguine of the success of our expedition.
I am, dear General,
Your ever attached friend
and obedient servant,
[Signed] Z. M. Pike.
General J. Wilkinson.
PIKE'S EXPEDITIONS.
Part III.
THE MEXICAN TOUR.