WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1836
4-38
opposed to any movement of this kind. So far as Texas has been injured, it has been [done] by separating, and not keeping the forces united. By keeping forces united, we can resist any in- vasion: if we detach our forces we are liable to be cut up at any time in detail. Our policy is to hazard nothing- let us act on the defensive. If the Enemy chooses let them run [the] risk. A wise man will wait for the harvest, and prepare the reapers for it when it comes. A system of discipline and subordination main- tained in our Army will insure safety to Texas, and safety would give us our independence. I am advised that the Congress of the United States has adopted a resolution authorizing the president of the United States [to send] a Diplomatic Agent to this govern- ment for the purpose of ascertaining [our] capabilities for self government, and if the Agent should report fa[vorably,] that the President is authorized to recognize its independence during the present recess of Congress. Enclosed with this Communication · you will receive copies of s_undry documents which I have received from Genl Santa Anna and which will be forwarded to General Jackson by first opportunity. You will also receive the Copy of a letter which I have [the] honor of addressing through you to the Cabinet, and which I desire to [be] communicated to the Country. The conduct of the Cabinet ~enerally since they came into [pos- session] of Genl Santa Anna, and particularly their attempt to release [him] with the means employed in so doing (so far as I am informed) there is but one feeling either in the United States of America ... that feeling is deeply inbued with indignation. Their general course, so far as I have understood it, has impaired its standing abroad and unless some remedy can be found, must prove ruinous at [home]' The remedy perhaps would be best found by the Army calling a Convention on some proper basis, at least as soon as a Diplomatic Agent will arrive at Texas from the United States. The Constitution framed by the last Conven- tion, has never been submitted to the people for their ratification, nor was it ever signed by the members of the Convention. 2 So far as it is understood it does not [give] satisfaction. It is alleged that when the Convention dissolved there was [no]t one third of the members present, and the President of the Convention [pre] suming upon the power given to him by that small minority assumed the right of signing the names of members who had never seen the Constitution. It is most desirable that Texas from post experience of two Governments should be enabled to pursue that course that will harmonize the feelings of citizens,
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