known lo those who will have charge of these matters. But they have no hope that this convention will at this time patiently examine and audit them as strict justice would require. The chairman of this committee would do injustice to his own convictions of truth were he not to recommend Mr T. F. McKinny to this body as a parson who has acted with a liberality & energy more than ordinary in promoting the best interests of Texas. And in conclusion begs leave to be discharged from this committee.
Jas Collinsworth Chairman. &c. &c
[March 16, 1836]
[2337] [ELLIS to PUBLIC]
To the people of the United States.
Friends and Brothers:- The intelligence conveyed to us by the above letters, confirms alJ that we have heretofore alledged of the barbarism of the arch fiend, who, after suberting the liberties of his own countrymen, has arrayed all his forces to reduce us-the free-born colonists of Texas-to the yoke of military and ecclesiasti- cal despotism. We have exercised the right inherent in all considerable societies of men, of choosing the form of government most consonant to our feelings, and most likely to secure our happiness. It is the same right which impelled your fathers and our fathers to throw the gauntlet of defiance at the power of Britain, and to claim and gloriously to acheive a name amongst the nations of the earth. The enemy was comparatively, christian and magnanimous-ours is semi-civilized, infuriate and merciless. They appealed to the sympathies of monarchs and of strangers, and they appealed not in vain-aid, prompt, powerful and efficient was rendered. The descendents of Pericles, lifted up their voices to supplicate the aid of strangers in their struggle for liberty; and you, Americano, responded to the call by a zealous, active, and efficient succor. The gallant Poles, also, richly participated in your generous sympathies for the oppressed. · Friends and brothers!- We, the citizens of Texas, threat- ened with an indiscriminate slaughter, by the minions of a complicated and cruel despotism, now in this hour of our trial, turn our thoughts and hearts, with an unwavering confidence, to the land of our common nativity, and we ask you for assistance.
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