p APERS OF l\IIRABEA u BuoN APARTE LAMAR
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of these notes is certain and that their early payment is altogether probable. With every prospect of effecting a foreign loan equal to our wants-with a fair probability of a speedy pacification with our prin- cipal foe-with ample and abundant preparation for effective war when- ever circumstances require it-with peace upon our borders, a prosperous commerce' on the Gulf, and the cheering promises of an almost exhaust- less harvest throughout _the land, I can perceive no well founded cause of complaint nor any just grounds for public dissatisfaction; neither can I appreciate the motives or the utility of those efforts which are calculated to increase distrust in the measures of the Government and to excite dissensions among the people, at a period when all is prosper- ous happy and contented. No nation on the globe is in a more flourish- ing condition than Texas at the present moment; none in the enjoy- ment of a larger share of political and providential blessings; and I can no more frame an apology for the patriot who, under such circumstances would mar the public tranquility by unfounded complaints against a Government that thus promotes his prosperity, than I can for the christian who murmurs at the dispensations of providence amidst the enjoyment of its numerous benefices. But, gentlemen, no Executive need flatter himself with the hope of inspiring universal confidence, or of having his every act applauded and sustained. Perhaps such entire unanimity, in public sentiment, even if attainable, might not be desirable. The light of truth like sparks from the smitten steel, is often the .result of violent intellectual collision. When diversity of opinion is occasioned by the diversified character of the human mind, it is always favorable to the growth of knowledge and the spread of correct principles; but when an opposition to any course of policy or conduct is not founded on honest conviction, but prompted by the influence of selfish passions, it becomes a fruitful source of error, vice and calamity; and if it be not moderated and cor- rected by a predominant intelligence and virtue in the community, it will inevitably sink a people into cureless immorality, violence and degradation with the loss of public liberty and every hope of private happiness. Which of these two causes, after a full review of the present administration, have had the largest share in that continued personal detraction of the President, and the denunciation of his measures_, by discontented agitators is a question which must be left to the judgment and decision of the people for the ,lay, and to the faithful historian for the future. It is sufficient for him that he has for all hiR acts an approving conscience, uncontaminated by cupidity or crime; and this is quite reward enough, if he receive no other. But, gentlemen your letter ru;sures me that the efforts of the Execu- tive to advance our young republic have not been unappreciated by a virtuous and enlightened community-a community distinguished for its watchfulness over the general interests of the Country, as well as for the faithful observance and enforcement of the laws of the land, and the preservation of good order, sobriety and dignity on the administration of its local affairs. The approbation of such a people is not likely to be prized; it calls forth my livliest sentiments of gratitude, and inspires me with additional confidence and zeal in the discharge of my official duties; feelings gentlemen, which you will be pleased to communicate
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