[3183) [JACK to TOBY]
Department of Stale Velasco 28th !\lay 1836
To Thomas Toby Esq New Orleans Sir
I am instructed by the President and Cabinet of the Government of the Republic of Texas lo say to you, that we have viewed, with pleasure, your conduct and are impressed with a sense of the liveliest gratitude, for the repealed evidences of disinterested liberality which our country has received at your hands. In times of general prosperity, the capitalist, who advances funds to a Government, deserves nothing more than · a fair remuneration for his loan. But when an infant Republic, just sprung into existence, without a Government al home or credit abroad, is compelled lo carry on a defensive war against a powerful T)Tant, whose watchword was extermination, and whose march is traced by the desolation which is left behind him; when a cloud of the most dark and angry character was lowering over us; when "hope deferred" had almost sunk into despondency, the man who like you could fearlessly step forward and risk his fortune and credit in our behalf, deserves and receives a Nations gratitude. But for the frequent and well limed aid, which you have so liberally afforded, it is scarcely probable that wc could have sustained the war up to this period, and Texas, the fairest portion of the continent, might now have been what Santa Anna had threatened lo make it, a howling wilderness. It affords us, however, great pleasure to inform you that a very short Lime has produced a most fortunate change in the aspect of our affairs; and we have every reason lo hope for a speedy termination of the war. Should your inclinations ever lead you to visit our country, you will find that your conduct has made impressions which will not be obliterated by time or forgotten in the hour of good fortune. You will be pleased, Sir, to make public this demonstration of regard, and accept my assurances of the highest consideration. Wm. H Jack Secretary of State
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