Biv 27 1835 to Jan 13 1835 - PTR, Vol. 3

Thal some acls have been commillcd in Texas, which I have always disapproved, and still disapprove, is well known. They were reprobalcd and disapproved by the great mass of the people. But that these individual acts were of the rebel character, which the government of Mexico says they are, or that all Texas should be condemned to ruin 011 this account, is as false a pretext as that of the wolf for eating the sheep. The truth is that liberal and free principles must be banished from Texas, as they have been, or perhaps will be, from all Mexico, to suit the views of the central party. To do this, the people of Texas must be annihilated; and some reasons must be given to the world, for so harsh a measure. The rumors circulated by my enemies, that I was instructed, or in any way concerned in these large land sales and speculations, is false. This specimen of the ruinous legislation of Coahuila, as to lands, is a fair specimen of their legislation for Texas, in all other matters. A large portion of this country has thus been thrown away into the hands of speculators, and entangled by conflicting claims. And are the people of Texas lo be blamed for all this? Was it their acts that involved this country in a perplexing land labyrinth, and in anarchy and revolution? No, it was the acts of native born Mexican legislators and revolutionists. This subject, and all other matters connected with Texas, ought to be fully explained in a manifesto from the representatives of the people. This is therefore another reason why a convention ought lo be called. The fact is now evident that Texas is engaged in a struggle for existence, against great numerical strength and resources; and she must supply her physical weakness, by the justice of the cause. If she cannot do this, she deserves to fall. For the reasons expressed, I am of opinion a convention should be called, without any delay, lo meet as soon as possible to hold the elections and convene the members. This is also the decided opinion of the citizen volunteers of the army, as expressed to me very generally, before I left the camp. The provisional government will, of course, continue in full force, until changed by the conve11tion. Their labors, in my opinion, have been directed by the purest desire to promote the general good, and merit the approbation of the country, I remain, very respectfully, your most obedient serva11t, S. F. Austin.

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