it an internal domestic quarrel about which they can feel but little interest. So that situated as we are, we encounter all evils of a declaration of independence without realizing one 50th of the advantages of such declaration. Again, many honestly differ in regard to the powers of the late consultation. Some believe them to have been purely recommendatory. Others say that not one 5th of the people voled for representatives, not anticipating the present crisis; and various others find various other objections. We know mankind well enough to know that every cavil objection and cause of excitement will be greedily embraced, magnified and circulated for the purpose of poisoning and prejudicing the public minds, which would be a result that could not be too much avoided and deprecated in our infant and unorganized condition. Those of course acting with authority from a body of doubtful powers would necessarily have a delicate and difficult task lo perform. We truly, do as we will, "walk upon ashes ua1derlaid with living fire." In order to obviate these evils and give universal satisfaction, I would respectfully suggest, that the present provisional government continue to exercise its functions, giving to the army now in the field, and the regular army to be raised, the speediest and most efficient aid, and that the Governor immediately order an election throughout Texas on the 1st of January, for members lo a Convention, to meet on the 15th of the same month. Let it be fully announced, that this Convention is called to ascertain the will of the majority in regard. to a declaration of independence, to sell the country to the United States, if practicable and desirable-to form a Constitution for Texas, to take prompt measures to prosecute the present war with vigor, to fix the seat of government, and also the seal of justice in the different municipalities, to appoint a board of commissioners, to adjudicate and settle our land titles on a solid and secure basis, to resolve themselves in to a legislature if necessary; in short let it be clearly understood, that this Convention will meet to do whatever in their opinion the good of the country requires, and that they exercise all the powers which the people themselves possess in their radical and original capacity. In this way the people of Texas.will vote with their eyes open, the will of the majority will be closely ascertained and carried into effect, which m my estimation will redound much indeed to the prosperity and
19
Powered by FlippingBook