The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume I

193

WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1830

If it were the object of the mover of the Report, to afflict the reputation which I had acquired, as a public agent, or officer, it was transcending all bounds, for a fe.w individuals to reflect .formally, upon the reputation, which had been created, and sanc- tioned; by the suffrages of the state! And it affords me pleasure, while I cherish the belief that no proceedings (however designed) of such character, will ever be hailed with satisfaction, by those who know me well, - nor by the citizens of Tennessee, - who have marked my conduct, in every vicissitude of life - and whose often repeated confidence, has graven upon my heart, the deepest sense of affectionate gratitude! . Had the committee not attacked my reputation, as I deem im- properly; but pursued for their object, the reparation of an in- jured Lady, and the feelings of her family, I do most solemnly assure you, Sir, I would never have addressed you upon this sub- ject, - for it is impossible for me, ever to cherish, any other, than kind feelings and the sincerest wishes for their happiness! You have my free permission (should you regard it as an act of justice to me) to publish this letter, that my protest, may be

judged of, as well, as the report of the committee. With high respect, I am your obedient servant,

Sam Houston. 1 The original is in the Historical Commission of Tennessee. This copy was made from a certified copy of the original. ~General William Hall was the Speaker of the Senate of Tennessee at the time of Houston's resignation, April 16; 1829, of the gubernatorial office, and by constitutional provision automatically became Governor for the unexpired term. See Houston to William Hall, "Resigning His Office as Governor of Tennessee," April 16, 1829. 3 For the full text of the "Report" see Jo. C. Guild, Old Times in Tcn- mssce (1878), 270-273. To ANDREW JACKSON 1 Wigwam Neosho 15th Deer 1830 To Genl Jackson Sir, I have the honor to addrrns you upon the subject of one of your old soldiers .at the Battle of New Orleans. I allude to Captain Nathaniel Pryor,2 who has for several years, past re- sided with the osages as a sub agent, by appointment of Govr Clark 3 but without any permanent appointment from [the] Gov- ernment. A vacancy has lately occurred by the decease of W Carr, sub agent for the Osages; and I do most earnestly, solicit

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