Jan 14 1836 to Mar 5 1836 - PTR, Vol. 4

G. W. Barnett James G. Swisher Jesse Grimes S. Rhoads Fisher John W. Moore John W. Bower

Jas. Gaines Wm. Clark Jr.

Sydney 0. Penington Wm. Carrol Crawford Jno. Turner

Test. H. S. Kimble, Secretary

[2227) [AUSTIN to -----)

Louisville, ~larch 3, 1836. It possibly may be considered that the commissioners have delayed too much time in getting on to Washington. The delay has been unavoidable, owing to the ice and the illness of Mr. Wharton and myself at Nashville. Ilul had nothing of this kind detained us, we have no doubt that the cause of Texas has been much more effectually promoted by our presence in this country than could have been done in Washington City. . It is almost useless for us to appear al Washington until we receive instructions from the convention of Texas lo apply in form to the U.S. Govt. to recognize our independence. If we go lo Washington now, we cannot be received in any public capacity whatever, and a refusal to recognize us as commissioners would have a bad effect. This opinion is founded on information recd. from a source that is entitled lo confidence. The course heretofore pursued by the people of Texas, has been universally approved of by all men of reflection & calm judgment; they say it has been marked by prudence and forbearance on our part, which has placed us on high ground. The events in Mexico and the revolutionary stale of that country, the prostration of the constitution, and the establishment of centralism, have compelled and forced Texas to separate & declare absolute independence. Il ought to be done, public opinion all over this country expects and calls for such a declaration and all our friends are anxiously awaiting it, and although it would have been viewed as premature, or at least a doubtful measure in

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