[1755) [COUNCIL to PUBLIC]
TO THE PEOPLE OF TEXAS. When, in the execution of delegated powers, the representa- tives of a Sovereign People are urged to the necessity of adopting harsh means, to protect the interests of their country, and save her from anarchy, it becomes their duty to their constituents to explain to them the circumstances under which they have acted, and the inefficacy of a milder course. Under these considerations, and a full sense of the high responsibility resting upon them, the representa- tives of the people of Texas, in General Council assembled, chosen and delegated to guard her rights and interests, in her present embarrassed and critical situation, are painfully compelled to disclose to their constituents and to the world, occurrences as unlooked for, as they are to be deplored and regretted. In a government like ours, formed for the present emergencies, hastily organized, and at a time when confusion and disorder prevailed throughout our oppressed land, it could not be expected that perfect harmony and concord would characterize all the acts of all its departments, or entire satisfaction could be given by all its legislations; but it was at least to have been hoped, and the hope was fondly cherished by thymembers of this Council, as well as by alJ patriots, that, by mutual compromises and a general spirit of concession, the present necessities of our beloved country could be answered. All immediate self-interest we endeavored to discard; all private ambition and individual jealousies to sacrifice on the altar of our country, and to unite in fraternal Council lo promote and advance the general weal. That this department of the government has so far succeeded in their adherence to these principles, we appeal to our public acts, and to alJ who have witnessed our deliberations. When complaints have been made to us, of our acts, we have endeavored calmly and considerately to revise our conduct, and correct, so far as we are able, all errors and inconsistencies. With the other department _of the Provision~!. Government,_ we have endeavored to co-operate m the same sp1r1t of concession, and allowance for all errors and misconceptions, and to avert the present lamentable stale of affairs, has been our C_?nstant and unremitting care: but, unfortunately_ fo~ the country, 1t was not to be prevented. From the very orga111zat1on of the government we
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