[1459) [SMITH Lo COUNCIL]
Gentlemen: I transmit lo your body various bills which I have considered and signed. The one with resolutions requiring me lo communicate with the committee al the city of Mobile, for the purpose therein named, I have not as yet complied with, nor am I al present in a situation lo do promptly, as my health is bad, and my situation quite uncomfortable, but hope in a few days lo better situated lo discharge the functions of my office. I have signed the revenue, post-office and many other bills and resolutions of minor importance, all of which I lransmil lo you, with one lo call the convention, not approved, inasmuch as I consider it in some degree exceptionable. My objections are confined to the third and fourth articles, and are these: That the Mexican population within our limits, particularly where they are unmixed with other population, could not properly be tested, al an election, to know whether they were in favor of centralism or nol-lhat being made the touchstone for eligibility. Under existing circumstances, I consider one fact plain and evident: that they who are not for us musl be against us. In my opinion they should be so considered and treated. Actions always speak louder than words; and a very great proportion of Lhe inhabitants of Bexar afford fair examples. They have had, il is well known, every opportunity lo evince their friendship by joining our standard. With very few exceptions they have nol done so, which is evidence, strong and conclusive, that they are reaJly our enemies. In many instances they have been known to fight against us. I therefore consider Lhal they should neither be entitled to our respect or favor, and as such not entitled to a seal in our councils. As it respects the other Mexican jurisdictions that are intermixed with our own population, where the touchstone could be more properly applied- it would be different. I, therefore, hope you will reconsider the bill, and make the alterations suggested, as l consider the objections reasonable and justly founded. T am,
I .
Your obedient servant, Henry Smith, Governor.
December 12, 1835.
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