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TEXAS STATE LIBRARY
shrewed, intelligent gentleman. This was intended to be a secret here, but Saligny, being acquainted with several respectable gentlemen here, and particularly intimate with one who happens to be a friend and acquaintance of mine ; he informed my friend of the fact of his going, received their and his, (my friends) favorable impressions, and became strongly predisposed from the start, in favor of Texas. I have no doubt my friend will know the tenor of his report to Pontois, as soon as the latter, himself, receives it, and long befoie the French government has it before them. Again, within the last week, Mr Pontois has stated in his opinion, the report of Saligny would be very favorable, Now, the letters which Saligny took, were to Genl Houston, and some others, under the supposition that he would arrive there during Houston's presidency. But the fact, probably, is that he will be there too late for Houston, but just in time for Lamar's ina1tgura- tion, or say about this tirne. Now, on the other side, we find the French government holding on to Henderson, keeping him there, under one pretext or other, and finally, by latest advices, designing nim to wait until they heard from their agent. Evidently wishin~ first to get over their difficulties with Mexico, and then if they received a favorable report from their agent, to take any advantage that might offer, on the part of Texas for a recognition on the part of France. And it may be here set down as alrnost certa,in, that if France recognizes, so will England forthwith. Now in my opinion it is a matter of rnitch importance, that the ,French agent, lVIr Saligny (whether he appears there incog. or as an agent) should be so received. have such proper attention paid to him, and such pains taken t<? show him the country, and its resources to advantage, as will ensure a report, not rnerely favorable (which he is disposed to ma'.ke) but such a strong and convincing report, as will ensure the prompt and favorable action of his Govt. in the matter of recognition, com- mercial treaty &c &c., which of course will give such a character to Texas in Europe as will secure her credit for her bonds; and enable her to make a loan there. I thought if I could reach the Boat in time for the 1st Jany. this might be in time to furnish a hint, which might do some good. Therefore it is that I write this letter, at this time, If the Report be favorable, and known as it will be, before it goes over by some inff,uential gQntlernen, and men of means here, it may be made the basis•of a conditional loan, of, say a million or so ; or your Govt. may, when that report is known here to be strong and favorable, obtain at Jnce a million of dollars; meanwhile the matter goes for- ward and produces its effect on the French Govt., whereby the bal- ance of the 5 rnillions may be secured".-- • The old Com. is about taking his station in the U. S. navy again, or at least is urged to do so! He has gone to Florida for his health lately, and I, presume undeter- mined what course he will pursue-will depend much on the state of his health.
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