Captain Nicolás Flores y Valdéz had begun military service in 1696, entering the army as a private, and when, in 1701, the garrison of San Juan Bautista was established, he was one of the first to enlist. Here he served for fourteen years in the capacities of soldier, sergeant, and alférez, ranking in the last position next to the captain, as no lieutenant was assigned to that garrison. In Aguayo's expedition to Texas, Flores was made subaltern of his company. In 1720, after this appointment, he defeated a force of Indians near the Nadadores River, in Coahuila, distinguishing himself by his bravery and ability. In the expedition to Texas he served as explorer, assisted in the repairing of the missions in eastern Texas, and was employed by Aguayo in many important minor duties, all of which he performed entirely satisfactorly. Several times he was sent to bring back supplies, and he always did so with the greatest dispatch. Thus, as a reward for ability and faithful service, when Captain García was made protector of the Indians of Coahuila, Flores was appointed to succeed him at San Antonio, on April 30, 1722. He was wounded four times in different fights, and always gave a good account of himself in action (Autos hechos a consulta, González contra Flores, 12-17). Such is the account of Flores given by the Marqués de Aguayo in 1724.
