37
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1826
particular population of these countries; and in reference to Cuba and the West Indies, that it is of vast importance that we should be there, to prevent anything arising that might be prejudicial to the interests of the Southern part of the Union. Mr. H. had the misfortune not to be ab!e to see the immediate connection be- tween the Southern States and the regulations of the South Amer- ican Republics, in regard -to the Islands. Those nations would find it as much to their interest to respect the rights of the United States as the Unite~ States would find a facility in guar- antying their rights, ,vithout entering into all the views that would be presented at the Congress of Panama. We are told, also, that this is a splendid opportunity afforded us and our Ministers of figuring there. What splendid figures were to be cut? Are we to show more largely in the drama than other Powers? Are we to stand in bold relief there whi!st those who projected this scheme are to be thrown in the background? Mr. H. said he could not believe that the opportunity was afforded us for figuring to more advantage there than we do at home. We stand preeminent amongst the nations of the earth. The pinnacle is desirable and enviable, and we can maintain it so long as we continue to rely on our own resources, and refrain from borrowing foreign aid. But, it is said, it is a dignified course to send Ministers. The United States by their Ministers, will occupy a dignified and important station. Mr. H. said, he could not perceive any great dignity that was to attach to the United States from this meas- ure. It might dignify the nation, but ,vhere was the safety of it? The page of history to be opened by us is splendid and new: splendid are the records of American achievements spread on it, and it asks for no civic wreath to be acquired there. The laurel and the civic wreaths have been p!anted in the soil, and we cannot expect them to flourish by any alliance we can form with South America, beyond the common connexion we have formed with other nations with whom we stand on friendly relations. But, above all, one principle had been advanced by an honor- able gentleman, which he presumed, had been advanced with de- liberation, and not on the spur of the occasion; and which Mr. H. thought of a most extraordinary character. We are told that this House has a right either to expedite or retard the progress of busine~s in other coordinate departments of this Government; that comity ought to be exercised towards other branches of the Government; but that, in case of emergency, this House ought to
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