interests of my native country, and the great principles of liberty, are deeply involved in this subject. I have in Limes past, had more kind and charitable feelings for the Mexicans in general, and have been much more faithful to them than they merited. I acted from a sound and honest principle-that of mutually benefiting my native and adopted country, by Americanizing Texas and securing to liberal principles in Mexico a support and a guide in Texas, and at the same Lime serving my native country by a po.pulation there, that would harmonize with their neighbors. But sad and dear bought experience has convinced me that it is in vain to hope for any good from Mexican institutions, or Mexican justice. I am, therefore, for the independence of Texas, and I am so from the soundest principles that move the human heart-those of liberty, justice, humanity, and self-preservation. Respectfully, your most obedient servant,
S. F. Austin
(2967] [CASS to GAINES]
War Department May 4, 1836. Sir: I have received your letter of the 8th ultimo, and in answer, have to inform you that the President wiU sanction the employment of whatever force may be necessary to protect the western frontier of the United States from hostile incursions. This Department has addressed the Governors of the States of Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky and Alabama, requesting them to caU into service such militia force as you may find necessary in carrying into effect the instructions heretofore given to you. The theatre of operations is so distant from the seat of Government, that much must be entrusted to your discretion. The two great objects you have to attain are, first the protection of the frontier!-; :md secondly, as strict a perfnrmance 0f the neutral duties of the United States as the great object of self defence will permit. You will take care and do no act which can give just cause of offence to any other Government; and on the other hand, you wiU not permit the frontiers to be invaded by any forces .whatever. I have to request that the militia you may call
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