The Papers of Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, Volume II

282

TEXAS STATE LIBRARY

the esteem, the respect, the admiration of the world, and induce foreign nations to sue for our alliance, this the happy, the glorious end to which Union leads and which, without Union, is inattainabk 1Vhen we reflect on the present position of Texas, as well within as without do we not find new motives to remain united? - Within, the late elections have produced a general excitement, a kind of political schock which has given increased energy to the natural causes of division already existing amongst our citizens. The electoral system of our republican institutions, notwithstanding its emmense advantages, and, perhaps in very reason of that precious equality of rights of which it proves the existence,- our electoral system, I say, necessarily carries with it the evil of rousing the passions. Public men and their acts are warmly attacked, as waTmly defended, sometimes misrepresented, as often lauded to excess. In the heat of this contest, party spirit springs forth and gives birth to political hatred. Let this never exist between us. Let us ally ourselves more intimately than ever; .and by a course of conduct entirely patriotic, frank and equitable, joining strict justice to a noble indulgence, let us unite in maintaining order, in restoring internal peace in stifling dissentions.- Wthout, if we cast our eyes upon the dangers which surround us, we behold, on the one hand, the Mexicans, whose hatred against us, is only kept in check by the embarrassments of the French blocade, and of their intestine divisions, anxious, in spite of these obstacles, again to inflict upon us the scourge of war. On the other hand, the Indians, regardless of repeated assurances of amity and friendship, have taught us, by their depradations, to distrust their Punic faith. Against such enemies, what without Union, can the most chivalrous courage effect? And it is precisely because I am aware of the immense internal and external advantages which will result to the Republic from our sincere personal and political Union, because I am aware that I can fully rely on your cheerful concurrence with me in the adoption of the measures necessary for the advancement of our beloved country, that I feel, in this occasion, a joy so pure, so pTofound. It does not become me at present to speak to you of the measures I consider opportune; that is still the province of the actual administration, and God forbid that I should encroach upon its rights. I have too much rega:rd for propriety; and this same motive compels me to abstain hereafter from participating in your deliberations. But again I repeat it, I deleight to recognize in the men, intructed by the People with the charge of advising and aiding the Executive in his labo-rs, the elite of our most talented pa.triots and the friends most dear to my heart.

[Endorsed in pencil] Lamar's address to the Senate on leaving the Vice Presidency for Presidency -

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