Original documents on microfilm (in Spanish) and typescript translations (English) reporting trials of smugglers highwaymen, thieves, traitors, murderers, foreigners, deserters, and others who failed to comply with Spanish and Mexican laws give the reader an eyewitness view of the judicial procedure and the everyday life in Texas over a century ago. Royal orders, official and personal letters from officers, enlisted men, and civilians present a vivid picture of the administrative and financial methods of the government. Reports of occasional inspections, reconnaissance expeditions, explorations, new settlements, diaries, lists of Indian presents and military supplies are other interesting matters recorded in the Bexar Archives. Even duels, love affairs and other bits of intimate life are found in these documents. Many Texans, who are descendants of the early Spanish, Mexican, or Anglo-American settlers of Texas soil would glow with pride if they could read about the deeds of valor and gallantry performed by their forefathers, as preserved in these valuable Bexar Archives.