The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume I

WRITINGS OF 5AM: HOUSTON, 1829

142

object were to obtain wealth, it must be done by fraud, and pecu- lation upon the Government,-and many perjuries would be neces- sary to its effectuation! Were I disposed to abandon my present seclusion, I would submit to you, if it would not be more ad- vantageous, for me to locate in Natchez. I am well known to the first men of that state. I was presented there under your kind auspices, _on your last visit to that country, and I would rally around me very many Tennesseans who have migrated thither! You can think of all the advantages presented by me, and the many more, which will present themselves to your mind! When I left the world I had persuaded myself that I would lose all care, about the passing political events, of the world, as well as those of my own country, but it is not so, for as often as I visit Cant. Gibson, where I can obtain News Papers, I find that my interest is rather increased than diminished. It is hard for an old Trooper, to forget the note of the Bugle! Having been so actively engaged for years past in politics, it is impossible to lose all interest in them for some time to come, should I remain in my present situation! I am not so vain as to suppose, myself so important to the world, or to my own country, as to believe my location on earth can, have any important influence upon its des- tinies, and therefore the claims, of Patriotism and duty to the land of my birth rest easy! If we were to judge of the future by the past, it might so hap- pen, were I settled in a state; that I might render my aid in some future political struggle between usurpation, and rights of the people in wresting power from the hands of a corrupt Userper, and depositing it, where the spirit of the constitution, and will of the people would wish it placed. These considerations are not without their influence, for I must ever love that country and its institutions, which gave Liberty and happiness to my kind1·ed, and f1·iends ! And these blessings can only be preserved by vig- ilance and virtue ! I am rejoiced that you have cleaned the stalls of Washington, as well as others! Get rid of all the wolves and the barking of Puppies, can never destroy -the fold! It amuses me to see the leaden pointed arrows shot at you by Gales and Co. 2 I trust in God, the Edifice which you have so nobly reared, and are now finishing, will receive, your own peculiar impress, and be worthy of your renown !

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