WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1836
473
I am the more satisfied of the expediency of this course, be- cause it has been laid before the Cabinet for their considera- tion; and they were unanimously of the opinion that it was proper. It has been apprehended that the circumstance would pro- duce excitement in the community, and therefore it would be unwise. On this subject my opinion is decided, that whatever course the Congress and Cabinet-the representatives of the people-might adopt, would meet with their approbation; and particularly so when that course would be referring our cause, our difficulties and our interests, to the f1iendship and media- tion of the government of the United States. That such a course would receive all possible attention from Gen. Jackson, there can be no doubt; from the character of his correspondence with Gen. Santa Anna, as well as his cor- respondence with myself, on the subject of an adjustment o_f the difficulties existing at this time, between Mexico and Texas. Faithless as Santa Anna may be, if he were to renew his pledges to Texas through the Government of the United States, he would not dare to violate them; nor could he do so without incurring the execrations of mankind, and calling down the indignation of the United States and ensuring their zealous aid in our behalf, should it ever be required. By permitting Gen. Santa Anna to throw himself on the generosity of that government and solicit their mediation, would be the highest compliment which a nation could receive. It would exhibit the President General of eight millions of people a suppliant at the court of Washington-one who had been conquered, spared, and released by the generosity and magnanimity of Texians. So far as I have been enabled to regard this subject, I have been guided by what I have esteemed to true policy of the coun- try, and with a desire to promote its true interests. A matter of so much importance to the country, does not admit of personal or individual feelings. It should in my opinion, be looked at on the ground of policy alone. Thus far I have felt it my duty to state facts and submit my views to the Honorable Senate as my constitutional advisers. Should they concur with the Cabinet and myself in these sugges- tions, and give their sanction to the measure, I shall feel strong in faith that it is wise. But should they believe that the inter- ests of the country require them to pursue a different policy from that suggested, of such vital importance in our present situation,
Powered by FlippingBook