[2141) [WARD to C0Mi\l1TTEE]
Goliad, February 20, 1836. Gentlemen: Your letter under date of the l l th inst., was duly received. It seems that an inveterate and incurable coUision between the body, of which you arc the representatives, and Governor Henry Smith, has taken place, and you call upon me to furnish you with the copy of a leller, written by the said Smith lo me some time during the past month, extracts from which have been furnished you by Col. J. W. Fannin, Jr. This leller, the production of which is thus sought, 110 doubt is intended lo he used by his enemies, to the detriment and injury of Governor Smith, as containing sentiments and expressions highly insulting and obnoxious to the late and present volunteer army. After maturely reflecting upon the subject, I feel myself compelled to decline compliance with your request, and a sense of self-respect and courtesy lo your body prompts me to explain to you frankly the reasons which prompt me lo adopt this course. When first I came to Texas, a total stranger, to aid her with all the power and influence I possessed, it was my first business lo receive all the information I could in relation to the internal and external situation of the country, and the prospects and expectations of her leading and most important characters. With feelings of no common sorrow I saw that the germ of feuds and divisions, had already been planted in the heart of the country. Without even intending lo mingle in these civil strifes, and hoping from a common sense of danger and the complete necessity of general harmony there would be found in the country patriotism sufficient to lull these commotions in their incipient stage, I freely mixed with all, conversed with all and sought information from all. On a visit to the capital, transacting business for myself and those individuals who had generously followed my fortunes and placed themselves under my direction, I early became acquainted with Governor Smith, who, with an ardor and zeal more upright than perhaps discreet, frankly disclosed to me his views and sentiments in relation lo the civil affairs and prospects of the country, and the suggestions he threw out and the advice he gave me were of a character naturally to inspire a stranger with
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