\VRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1827
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The Constitution has guaranteed to me that right in my indi- vidual character, and in my representative capacity, most as- suredly I ·will not abondon it. But as Mr. Adams is at the head of the Govunment, whenever he brings forward a measure for which I believe there is a necessity, I will vote for it with p!easure nnd alacrity. I have ever done so. I voted for the bill making appropriations for the Navy and Fortifications, at the last session, although I consider the appropriations for both these objects somewhat extravagant. In the prosecution of any laudable ob- ject by the Administration, if it were in my power, I would not embarrass it. . I am charged, for the purpose of producing political effect, I presume, of being the organ of General Jackson upon this floor. I am also charged with being his personal and political friend. I will inform the gentleman that General Jackson's public acts are his best organ, and his sentiments a sure passport to the affec- tions and confidence of his countrymen. To be esteemed his per- sonal friend, I consider a proud and honorable distinction. Nor can I consider it a reproach to be esteemed his political friend, when I advert to the sentiments of the great body of the American People. But I trust I shall never become so far the slave of any man as to support power and forget right. [Mr. Houston was again arrested in his remarks by the Speaker. On motion, however, the House granted him leave to proceed.] Mr. H. resumed, and said that it had been his intention, when arrested by the Speaker, to advert for a moment to the manner in which the present incumbent of the Presidential office had signified his acceptance of it; and his wish that the election could be referred back to the People. I will, however, said Mr. Hous- ton, take the liberty to remark, that, in his famous inaugural speech the President did openly declare that he came into the office by a less minority than any of his predecessors. And am I not justified in calling this a minority Administra- tion? And what has this minority President seen fit to do? Did he not suspend the execution of a treaty ratified by the Senate,7 and thereby, made void the supreme law of the land? Has he not sworn to execute the laws? And has he done so? What, too, was his conduct to the gallant Porter,8 after he had achieved for the naval glory of his country everything that a gallant spirit could effect? Yes, in the full recollection of his heroic and des- perate valor at Valparaiso, and all his other acts of honorable enterpris~, he is brought home and put upon his trial for pursuing
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