TEXAS INDIAN PAPERS, 1846-1859
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tenure than as mere occupants, and who by our Constitution and laws have no right whatever; and I am not insensible fo the obligations of the General Government to devise the ways and means for their speedy amelioration; nor do I forget the duty of our State to lend its best cooperation for the consum- mation of this end, but paramount of obligations to our own Citizens, do not allow me to extend to the Red man kindness, sympathy, or aid, when it costs one drop of the blood of our own people, or the sacrifice of their peace; and we must acqui- esce in the necessity which obliges us to consider them as the very worst of enemies so long as the property of our frontier inhabitants is appropriated to their use whenever opportunity stimulates their thieving propensities, and their desire for re- venge shall continue to be gratified upon the defenseless being who may chance to fall upon their warpath. Your suggestions, General, are good ; Let the Indians have a Country-hunting ground, trading houses be established amongst them,-honest men to deal with and the trade properly regulated, and let annuities be given them. They should, if possible, be removed from all proximity to the settlements of this Country. Too much blood has been spilled on both sides to permit us to be good neighbours. Indeed, I am satisfied that there is no other alternative than their removal, or their total extinction. Though cramped in my position from the want of suitable provisions by the Legislative branch of the State Gov- ernment, you still have my assurances that whatever I can do as ansciliary in the attainment of the great object, towit; Peace and security to the frontier; shall always be at hand, if worthy of acceptance. With much respect I have the honor to be your Obdt: Servant, [P.H. BELL] [Endorsed] Relative to the military defence of the Indian frontier of Texas. lP. H. Bell, Executive Record Book, Number 34, Pages 154-156.]
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