enforce the rules of the ayuntamiento. He continued trading goods, and also developed a ranch along Cibolo Creek, where he raised cattle, sheep, and goats. The Mexican War of Independence broke out in 1810, and while most of the fighting was in the interior, two separate revolts took place in Texas. In early 1811, Juan Bautista de las Casas led a revolt in Béxar, overthrowing local authorities. Veramendi joined other prominent men in the area in plotting a counterrevolt; they successfully captured de las Casas on March 3. For his efforts, Veramendi received public commendation from General Nemesio Salcedo. The following year, Veramendi led a trading caravan, carrying his wool to export. His mules and the wool were confiscated in east Texas by the Gutiérrez–Magee Expedition, which intended to fight the Spanish authorities in Texas. While the expedition moved south to capture Presidio La Bahia and Béxar, Veramendi travelled to Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he remained. There, he loaned money to either Jean Lafitte or his brother Pierre. Spanish forces under General José Joaquín de Arredondo soon quelled the rebellion in Texas, and Arredondo swept Béxar looking for traitors to punish. In October, Arredondo issued a general pardon and amnesty, which explicitly excluded Veramendi and his friend Francisco Ruiz (who had fought alongside the rebels), who were named as leaders of the rebellion. A 250-peso reward was offered for Veramendi's death. His home was confiscated and given to several army officers. In March 1814, Veramendi secured a partial pardon for himself and his younger brother Fernando; they were allowed to return to Mexico provided they agreed to remain under surveillance. Veramendi journeyed to Monterrey to speak with Arredondo. Following that conversation, Arredondo dismissed all charges against Veramendi and authorized the return of his property. Several years later, as the civil war in Mexico continued, there were further reports that foreigners were attempting to invade Texas. In September 1818, a small military expedition under Jose de Castenada journeyed to Galveston to investigate reports that foreigners had landed. Veramendi and his friend Navarro volunteered to accompany the troops. Castaneda assigned Sergeant Jose Jimenez to take 3 soldiers, and five civilians, including Navarro and Veramendi, to Natchitoches to deliver some official correspondence. Jimenez instructed his small group to remain camped on the Calcasieu River, while Jimenez, Navarro, and Veramendi finished the trek to Natchitoches. On their way back to camp, the trio took an