not a single citizen of New Orleans could be induced to embark in the first loan, and tho' they did engage in the second the first takers had to break the ice. The balance of the capitalists who held aloof imputed great temerity to us-even then when the battle of San Jacinto had not been fought. That, we supposed had made our fortunes, so thought the commercial community of New Orleans generally but it remains yet to be seen, whether or not those who confided in the chivalry and honor of Texas, and who were willing to stake their capital upon them or those who had no confidence in either, are by the world to be considered as possessed of the greatest amount of segacity. Should we be finally disappointed in our Expectations of Justice, which I will steadily refuse to believe until I see it too manifestly to be doubted I will console myself with the reflection that I would sooner suffer from a generous impulse of the heart which would prompt me to rely upon the justice of an oppressed and strugling gallant people than save my money, by believing that there was too little honor in them, & too little courage to Justify the hazard which I had encountered, the amount which I have invested is more than I am willing to loose I have moreo·ver scattered mine among many holders-If I fail to obtain the scrip I must reimburse, the money, not only my money I have adventured, but my time, much of which I suppose the former members of the Cabinet will allow was devoted with the deepest interest, in endeavoring to advance the welfare of Texas while I was in the country only about ten days did I devote to my own individual purpose while there save that was necessary in attention to the contract of compromise I neglected my affairs at home, and suffered severely, double the amount of my investment, would hardly pay the damage which my Texas Expedition has caused me, I mean including my investment not so with the other subscribers. They ventured a small Lottery ticket which they care but little about, if they loose it they will not feel it and will at least gratif Y themselves by as much opposition as they have heretofore given support to Texas. You say in one part of your communication "no matter what motives of gratitude may be aroused in our bosoms towards those who have kindly proffered to aid us in our struggles, stilJ we recognize the doctrine that nations must be just before they are Generous" For ourselves we ask no Generosity-not one attom. Bare, naked Justice is all we ask, give us that which any tribunal of Justice, of inteligence would say was Justice, and we ask no more, we ask_a compliance with our contract only-give us that and the world will
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