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least. If he were to return to Mexico, I have no doubt he would give them enough to do at home, instead of collectingand marching their force against you. You might enter into another.arrangement with him and proffer your services to assist, if required, in restoring him to the station he occupied before his Capture, provided he would guarantee the Independence of Texas, so far as depended upon him and Mexico. Were yo1i to liberate him under such circumstances and with such an understanding, I have no doubt he would be true to his engagements, and become the warm and sincere friend of Texas and her President elect. But it might be asked what could be expected of him, if liberated, as he might be powerless? Suppose such to be the fact, then in answer it might be said if he were unable to render Texas any services, neither could he do her any harm. But if his friends and followers have not abandoned him in conse- quence of his fallen fortunes, and it is likely they have not, he might still be a match for his enemies, and by compelling them to take care of them- selves at home, relieve you from the disasters of another campaign the coming winter. Others would suggest, {and no doubt think so too) that if he were again entrusted with power he might disregard his promises to Texas and endeavour to retrieve his lost honors by again invading her terri• tory and making war upon her citizens. If he were to attempt this, after stipulating to guarantee her independence as a condition of his liberation, I have no doubt your independence would be acknowledged forthwith by foreign nations, and ample means furnished you severely to punish such perfidious Conduct. However much the present Mexican authorities may object to the arrangement entered into between your Government and Santa Anna, in consequence of his being a prisner, he could not deny its authen- ticity, and especially if sanctioned and confirmed after he was set at liberty. These, my friend, are not only my views upon this all important subject, but they are the views and opinions of one who I know has great weight with you. The President in a conversation with a friend last evening, ex- pressed the same opinions as to the policy of liberating Santa Anna, and permitting him to return to Mexico without delay. He said he had no doubt but it was the best thing the Government of Texas could do, as it would-· give the Mexicans employment at home instead of making war upon their Neighbours. If liberated I should think it would be best for him lo go to Vera Cruz, as he probably has more friends there than in any other part of Mexico; but he of course would be the best judge of that himself. Gorostiza, the Mexican Minister has demanded his passport, and will I suppose soon leave the U. States if he has not already done so. The cause of his departure, was the refusal, on the part of this Government, to recall the troops stationed at Nacogdoches. The necessity of their remaining there for the protection of our fontiei: settlements is left entirely to the
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