The Writings of Sam Houston, Vol. V
THE WRITINGS
OF
SAM HOUSTON
1813-1863
EDITED BY
AMELIA W. WILLIAMS AND EUGENE C. BARKER
VOLUME V AUGUST 28, 1824-MARCH 14, 1854
AUSTIN, TEXAS THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS PRESS 1941
PREFACE
For certain documents contributed to this volume we continue to be indebted to Mr. W. A. Philpott, of Dallas, and to four grandchildren of General Sam Houston-Mrs. Madge W. Hearne, Mrs. Margaret John, and Mr. Franklin Williams-all of Houston, and Mr. Temple Houston Morrow, of Dallas. It is expected that Volume VI will issue before the end of 1941, but the collection has grown beyond our anticipations, and it now seems certain that nine volumes will be necessary to include the publication. In addition to some text the ninth volume will con- tain a general index. EUGENE C. BARKER
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1824-1843
PAGE To John I-I. Houston, August 28, 1824; says that Andrew Jackson will carry the South and West, that New York will be doubtful; either Jackson or Adams will succeed.·-····-·········· - - -······-··········-····--··· 1 To John H. Houston, March 12, 1825; relates his unpleasant traveling experiences on the way to South Carolina________________________ 2 To John H. Houston, June 30, 1825; says the reason he did not marry the South Carolina girl was that he had not prepared a home for her, but that he will return to South Carolina for her in the fall. He also states that he will not make the 1·ace for governor, but will 1·eturn to Congress ---···-···----------- _____ 3 To John H. Houston, June 28, 1830, a letter of friendship and affection; concerning politics, he states that Jackson will always be his friend; that he and the War Department differ; that Eaton will destroy himself by retaining unjust Indian agents___________ 4 To John H. Houston, July 31, 1833, a letter of friendship and affection; gives some account of his personal activities and successes__ ____ 5 To Thomas Jefferson Green, October 25, 1836; states that, in his opinion, there was no Texas constitution, until the final action on the document by the people; also, that he will not question the competency of the House of Representatives________________________ 7 To Thomas Jefferson Green, December 27, 1836; states his opm1on concerning Green's claims to the rank of Major General; asserts that he did for Green all that he honestly could______ 7 To W. D. Miller, March 16, 1843; asks Miller to make out an account to be charged to Indian affairs_ ___ ____ _____ 9 1847 The Texan Delegation to President James K. Polk, Ma1·ch 1, 1847; they ask that E. H. L. Wheelock be favorably considered for a govern- ment. position; the document is signed by Kaufman, Pilsbury, Rusk, and Houston ___ ______ ---·····-···---------·-·-- 9 To Ashbel Smith, April 12, 1847; a letter of affectionate friendship, and gratitude for skillful professional service________________ 10 To Ashbel Smith, April 27, 1847; asks Smith to pay Mrs. Houston a professional visit as soon as possible___________ 11 To Elijah Pu1·dy, June 3, 1847; discusses and refutes charges against himself; denies that he was unfriendly to General Taylor____ 12 To Joseph Ellis, June 12, 1847, a friendly letter giving news of family affairs, and states that he had bought a new place, Raven Hill, about two miles from Huntsville, Texas____ ----------·-·-···-- 13 To F. L. Hatch, July 18, 1847, in reply to a printed letter from President Tyler, concerning the annexation of Texas; he denies the charge of having flirted with England and France; states facts concerning the status of annexation in 1841, and 1842, and the roles played by Reily, Van Zandt and Murphy; he ends by declaring that General Jackson's letters brought the subject to the American people...._______ 14
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VI
PAGE To Sterling C. Robertson, September 15, 1847; says that he will sell his horse, "Proclamation," if he can get a fair price,________ 19 A Certificate of Expense, October 11, 1847; states that the men who accompanied Santa Anna to Washington City in 1836, had never been reimbursed for their expenses on the trip_______________ 19 To Anson Jones, October 18, 1847; states that he himself will reply to the first part of President Tyler's second letter, but will leave the latter part of it to Jones,_______ ---------- 19 To F. L. Hatch, October 20, 1847; a reply to President Tyler's letter of October 1, 1847. He again explains lhe roles played in the annexation episode by Reily, Van Zandt, and Murphy; denies that Tyler was the moving spirit of annexation, and declares that General Jackson was; says that Tyler flirted with Texas; discusses the moot question of the United States guarantee to protect Texas during annexation negotiations____ ----------- 20 To Ebenezer Allen, December 21, 1847; asks Allen to attend: a case at Jaw-Floyd vs. Stephen G. McCleney, also a case in which he him- self was personally involved through the questionable conduct of J. Pickney Henderso,.__________ ___ 27 JANUARY, 1848-MAY, 1848 To the Editors of the National Intelligencer, January 1, 1848; it con- cerns Anson Jones's statement that had he no't disobeyed Houston's orders during his second administration of Texas, that annexation would have been defeated_______________________ 28 Houston's speech on the Texan Boundary in Tammany Hall, February 22, 1848; The Texan boundary on the south and west was the Rio Grande from mouth to source; Mexico recognized this claim; Texas did not rebel against Mexico-it was Mexico who violated the Constitution of 1824 and subverted the laws; the Mexican centralist government's object in Texas was to annihilate the entire Anglo-American race there; a review of the Texas revolution; the Mexican invasion of 1842 was begun by the Mexicans crossing the Rio Grande; the so-called Cuevas Treaty of 1845 recognized that boundary; Mexico unable to protect her borders and subdue the Indians; Mexicans incapable of self-government; Texans gave Mexico liberal principles, and thus elevated its citizenry___________ 29 Speech, May 8, 1848, in the United States Senate, on the Yucatan Bill and the Davis amendment thereto: the United States at war with Mexico, of which Yucatan was an integral part; Yucatan claimed not to be involved in the causes of the war; a. restatement and a discussion of the Monroe Doctrine; Clay's position thereon; the obligation of the United States to take possession of Yucatan if there was danger of any other nation's doing so; thei true policy would force the United States to take Yucatan, not annex it, but defend its white population; refutation of Calhoun's argument that the annexation of Texas not the cause of the Mexican War; review of Texas history leading up to the controversy over the Texas
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PAGE boundary; the guarantee of the United States to protect Texas during negotiations for annexation_·-··-··-··-·--- ------ 37 JUNE, 1848-DECEMBER, 1848 Remarks, June 2, 1848, on the bill to establish territorial government in Oregon: it would give the people of Oregon protection ·against the Indians; -it would establish a government under the United States Constitution without reference to slaverY---···--·-··- 53 To the Washington Monument Society, July 2, 1848; expresses regret that he could not attend their July 4th celebration......·-·····---··-··· 56 To Ashbel Smith, July 21, 1848; asks Smith to go by East Tennessee on his way home and pay a professional visit to his sister Mary (Mrs. Wallace) who was ill·-········---·--- ___________ 57 To Ashbel Smith, August 2, 1848, again asks Smith to visit Mrs. Vv a II ace ·-- ··-············-·-·-··-··-------·····--··-··---- 57 Remarks, August 12, 14, 1848, on the bill to establish territorial govern- ment in Oregon: argues that Oregon lies north of the latitudinal line 36°-30', therefore prohibition of slavery there could not affect Southern interests, therefore, he does not fear disunion over the matter; both sections ought to make some sacrifices; each section mutually dependent on the other......·- ·········-···--·-·······-········-··· 58 To M. K. Snell, October 31, 1848; asks that Snell pay B. L. Wilson $150 -····-·-··--·-···-··-·········-··-···-··········-···--····-··-·-········----- 61 To Mrs. Houston, December 3, 1848; tells of his safe arrival in Wash- ington after a hard journey, and other family matters.·-- ··-·-- 62 JANUARY, 1849-FEBRUARY, 1849 R€marks, January 4, 1849, on the bill for the 1·elief of John Devlin: argues for the just payment for thirteen months of labor______.__ 63 Resolutions, January 8, 1849, concerning a railroad to California: national interests will be created; Senate should investigate ex- pediency of the government's establishing it for military purposes between San Francisco and suitable points on navigable rivers of the Mississippi valley-·-···-···-·----·-····--··'··-·····-··-····-··-··--- 65 Remarks, January 24, 1849, concerning the purchase of 500 copies of De Cordova's Map of Texas...·- ···--- ·-- ··-·-·----·-···-··-········-- - - -· 66 Remarks, January 29, 1849, on the Indian appropriation bill; argues that the Indians had a just claim against the United States arising under certain treaties·--··-·-······-·---- ----·---- ··--···-- 68 To Henderson Yoakum, January 31, 1849; concerns cases at law; also a controversy with John C. Calhoun over the Southern Convention- a matter of union or disunion------···--·- ···-····-···--····------·· 70 To "Mr. Grinnell," no date given, probably February, 1849; concerns the trade and commerce of Galveston, Texas, and the need for establishing a light-boat off Galveston Ba-i.··-·····-·-----·--······-····-··--·- 72 Remarks, February 5, 1849, on the bill for the payment of certain claims on the Republic of Texas: states that the liabilities were incurred when Texan notes and bonds were depreciated to twenty cents on the dollar.....- ·-····--···-·--·-··-···-········---··-···---- -·---·--·-· 74
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PAGE To Mrs. Houston, February 9, 1849, concerning personal matters..__ 74 Remarks, February 15, 1849, on the bill granting a pension to Mrs. Dix: he argues tha~ she should be paid, although her husband did not die in actual service,______ ----·---- 75 MARCH, 1849 Address to Constituents, March 2, 1849, concerning his action in the United States Senate: a justification of his vote on the Oregon bill; a refutation of John C. Calhoun's speech at Charleston, which accused Houston of having betrayed the South by this vote; a review of Calhoun's career; The Crisis of 1835 showed Calhoun's disunion opinions ______________ ······--·---··-·---····· 78 Remarks, March 3, 1849, on the proposition to extend the laws ofl the United States over California and New Mexico; argues that order and sanity must prevail__________________ 89 Remarks, March 3, 1849, on the bill for the relief of Elizabeth S. Cobbs: the pension should be paid, although her husband did not fall in battle - ··----- ___ ____ ___ 91 MAY, 1849-DECEMBER, 1849 To Thomas M. Bagby, May 7, 1849; asks that his portrait be sent to him at Washington_________·-----·-------- 92 To H. Yoakum, William Lehr, and G. W. Rogers, May 10, 1849; accepts an invitation to address the Sons of Temperance on July 4·-·---····· 93 To Ashbel Smith, May 31, 1849, a friendly letter; pays a high compli- ment to Hamilton Stuart.______________ ____ 94 To Mrs. Houston, July 9, 1849, a family letter____··--·------·------ 95 To James Gadsden, September 20, 1849, an answer to a letter from Gadsden condemning Houston, and championing the actions and career of Calhoun: discusses Houston's addrC'ss to his constituents, March 2, 1849; Houston's lack of a classic education; a comparison of the nullifiers of the South with the Whigs; Calhoun and the abolitionists; the Southern Address; the Southern Convention, the machine to devise ways and means for secession; Houston's vote on the Oregon bill; Houston's opinion of the Missouri Compromise- a part of the Texas constitution; his relation to the Wilmot Proviso; Congress's lack of authority to legislate on slavery_____.___ To Nahum Capen, November 4, 1849; thanks Capen for the gift of a book 95 107 To Mrs. Houston, November 18, 1849, a family letter·-------··------ 108 Speech, December 20, 1849, on the privilege of the floor: the occasion was a request that Theobald Matthew, a Catholic priest, be allowed to sit within the bar of the Senate during' a visit to Washington. The debate involved the slavery question·-·-·------·-·--·· ____ 109 A Resolution, December 27, 1849, concerning the submission to the Senate of certain correspondence between the government of the United States and the military authority of Santa Fe______ 112
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JX
JANUARY, 1850-FEBRUARY, 1850
PAGE To the Editors of the Union, January 10, 1850; concerns Memucan Hunt's letter to the creditors of Texas and the Holders of Texas liabilities ------------·--·----------------- _______________ 112 Resolution, January 14, 1850, concerning negro slavery___________ ____ 113 Resolution, January 30, 1850, concerning the public domain: would grant to each immigrant family, not already landholders, or worth $1500, the amount of 160 acres; special provision for female settlers with f a1nily ------------------------------------- ------------------------····--·---_ 113 Speech on the Compromise of 1850, February 8, 1850: Congress had no right to impose upon territories seeking statehood any other condition than that of having a republican form of government; Calhoun's resolution of February 19, 1847, cited and supported by argument; discussion of the Wilmot Proviso; a plea for sacrifice on the part of both North and SQ'Uth for the preservation of the union; a1·gument that the Texas boundary claims were just and valid; long argument on the value of the union, and the necessity for its preservation; gives his reasons for his refusal to sign the Southern Address; lays the blame for much of the agitation on southern statesmen; discussion of the Southern Convention; denial of charge that he had said that South Carolina influenced the calling of the convention; discussion of the defects of the South Carolina constitution; review of his own personal service and sacrifice for the South _____ _ ____________________ 119 To Edward Hall, April 24, 1850, a refutation of Hall's statement con- cerning Houston's conduct of the Texas government while he was President of the Republic__________________________ 144 To Mrs. Houston, April 30, 1850, upon the birth of their third daughter, Willie Mary, who was later Mrs·. J. S. Morrow_______________________ 145 To Henderson Yoakum, May 6, 1850, concerning the death of their mutual friend, Sam Laughlin____________________________________ 147 Remarks, May 8, 1850, concerning the admission of California as a state -------------------------·-------------··-··--------····-148 Remarks, May 9, 1850, opposing the creation of a Board of Accounts: the board unnecessary; dangerous to the treasury, and to the moral status of the country; not beneficial to the business of Congress__ 149 To Henderson Yoakum, May 14, 1850: tells that the President and his Cabinet are prodding Henry Clay, who is determined to oust the Cabinet; says that the President (Taylor) was not a man of high intelligence, and had no real friends_________ _ ___ 153 Remarks, June 4, 1850, urging the refund of certain tariff duties___ 154 Resolution, June 11, 1850, concerning Texan boundary claims in New Mexico: asks the President to inform the Senate whether military officers had had orders at Santa Fe to hold possession against the authorities of Texas_______ ---------------------------- 155 Speech, June 12, 1850, on the Texas-New Mexico boundary: Texas not responsible for the bad condition of the Pueblo Indians; New Mexico not benefited by the extension of its territory; the United States responsible for the state of affairs; inefficient Indian agents sent out;
..
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PAGE elections at Santa Fe were unconstitutional; character of the voters questionable; the representation not for the people, but for the favored few______ ---- ----------- 155 Speech on the Texas boundary question, June 13, 1850: argues that the Rio Grande must be the southern and western boundary of Texas; declares against Seward's claims for the Nueces; Mexico had always recognized the Rio Grande as the Texas boundary; Texas had peaceably established jurisdiction over New Mexico·-············-·····-··· 161 Speech on the Texas-New Mexico boundary, June 29, July 3, 1850: admits that martial law set up in New Mexico during the Mexican War was necessary, but since and during peace it was unnecessary, unconstitutional and an outrage against Texan sovereignty; the President of the United States was prejudiced against Texas, and acted arbitrarily for his own pleasure; a review of the treatment of Texas soldiers during the Mexican War; a discussion of the legality and the constitutionality of memorials from New Mexico; a review of the justice and constitutionality of the Texan claims; a return to a discussion of President Taylor's treatment of Texas, based on information given him by J. Pinckney Henderson; the unconstitu- tionality of the Nashville convention, and its injury to the institu- tions of the country; a discussion of the Xearny Code·-···-··--······· 167 A Resolution, July 8, 1850, asking for information, concerning plans to evacuate Point Isabel, near Brownsville; this point a useful port for shipping, and trans-shipment; point was evacuated in April, 1850, and left unprotected from marauding Indians and other pirates ·---------····-·-··----···-··----···· 193 To Lewis S. Coryell, July 21, 1850, an invitation to visit the Houston home in Texas·------------------··-·········-···-·- 196 Presentation, July 22, 1850, of the proceedings of a mass meeting at Matagorda, Texas__________________ 196 A Speech, July 25, 1850, concerning the Texas-New Mexico boundary: no new claims made by Texas, the same claims held as recognized by Mexico, the United States, and England before annexation; the organization of New Mexico as a state by the President was unjust, unconstitutional, and an act of usurpation; no civil authority ex·isted in New Mexico, except by a person acting as both civil and military governor _________ ·········---··-·········-·- 197 To Sam Houston, Jr., July 29, 1850, a father's letter to a young son_.__ 204 Speech, July 30, 1850, on the Texas-New Mexico boundary: refutes the charge that the vote of the Texas senators was bribed; a review of much of Texas history concerning annexation; declaration that Texas debts were not repudiated_·-----·--·---···-···--···-·· 204 Speech, July 31, 1850, on the Texas-New Mexico boundary: a history of how the New Mexico territory was acquired; it was never an organized territory except under despotism; Texas came into the union as a sovereign nation, voluntarily yielding nationality for statehood, but retained equal rights with the United States in stipulating for conditions of annexation, and in construing the instrument of her incorporation into the union·-·-······--·-·······-·--·- 208
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PAGE To Thomas H. Bayly, August 6, 1850; Houston concurs with his col- leagues in recommending Colt's pistols on the frontier.....----- 211 Speech, August 8, 1850, concerning Texas boundary claims: admits Indian incursions into Texas; gives account of Texan expeditions west of the Rio Grande, 1842-1843; explains the Canales effort to establish the Republic of the Rio Grande______ ______ !:!12 Speech, August 13, 1850, explaining his vote for the admission of Cali- fornia: his love and interest for both North and South; the ad- mission of Texas . to the Union on the principles of the Missouri Compromise; the first slave territory granted to free soil since 1819 taken from Texas by southern votes; Texas not injured by it; he and Texas take stand for the South andl the constitution; the Nashville Convention, a dangerous meeting, because it tried to dictate to Congress in violation of the principles of the forefathers; sarcastic mention of J. Pinckney Henderson, the Texas delegate to that convention; an argument that southern men destroyed the Clayton compromise of 1848; a contention that California should be admitted to the union on the principle of self-government, a matter neither for nor against rights of either North or South; quizzed by Jefferson Davis, a statement made that not half the counties of Mississippi had been represented in the Nashville Con- vention, and that Texan claims which were anchored on justice and the constitution of the United States, did not need the endorse- ment of that convention.........................·---·-·····-·····--·····--·-·----- 214 To Daniel ·wallace, August 14, 1850; gives assurance that he had not used the name of Wallace, of Calhoun, or of any other man in disrespectful manner in his August 13th speech.·--·-----·--·-· 231 Speech, August 15, 1850, disavowing sympathy for disunion sentiment: the rumor to connect him ,vith a disunion plot, a humbug; Texan difficulty in entering the union; his belief that all laws passed by the present congress were constitutional; public opinion in Texas not of his making; declaration of his loyalty to the South and his adherence to the Union___ ------------- 232 To Sam Houston, Jr., August 23, 1850, a letter of paternal affection and advice --···--·-·--··--- 236
To P. H. Bell, August 26, 1850, recommending R. W. Latham as fiscal agent for Texas ........ ---·-······--···-·-··-···-···-··-····-·--·-·-··-- SEPTEMBER, 1850-DECEMBER, 1850 A Reply to reflections upon his record as sub-Indian ageITt, September 9, 1850: attack made by General Daniel Wallace of South Carolina, in the Sou,thern Press; his appointment as Indian agent, September 29, 1817, made by Secretary of War, George Graham, under Presi- dent Monroe; detailed explanation of his appointment to, his services in, and of his resignation of the office, and of the approval of his superior officers; General Jackson's interest in the matter; John C. Calhoun's conduct concerning it, the charges made against him, his exoneration from the charges; Butler's (of South Carolina) explanation that his reflections against Houston were
237
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PAGE initiated by a book written by Thomas Jefferson Green, followed by Houston's brief statement concerning T. J. Green·-·······--···--- 238 To P.H. Bell, September 12, 1850, enclosing a letter from R. W. Latham 252 Remarks, September 17, 1850, favoring homestead grants in Oregon: a brief review of the history of homestead grants; an argument that the minimum grant in Oregon should be 640 acres..·-··--·····--·-·-·· 253 Remarks, September 23, 1850, concerning certain financial claims made by New Mexican officials for mileage...-·-··----·-··-·-······--···- 256 To Sam Houston, Jr., September 23, 1850, a letter of paternal affection and admonition -----------··-···-· ----·-···-··· 258 Remarks, September 28, 1850, in favor of the bill giving relief to Lieutenant Henry F. Evans who was disabled in the service of his country ---------------·---·· ------259 To B. Rush Wallace, November 11, 1850, an invitation to breakfast.·-···· 259 To B. Rush Wallace, November 18, 1850, concerning certain official correspondence relative to Edwin W. Moore.·---··- - -···--··-·- 260 To Mrs. Houston, November 18, 1850, a letter written en route to Washington: relates fact that Joseph L. Hogg had been acquitted for killing Eli Chandler_______ ___ --- 260
JANUARY, 1851-FEBRUARY, 1851 To John Letcher, January 24, 1851, a discussion of national and sec- tional matters: discussion of causes of tha great agitation of the times-the slavery problem, boundary disputes, admission of new states, nullification sentiment; the Nashville Convention-the diso- lution of the union fever; his disagreement with this agitation; his belief that Virginia might save the union by calling a convention of all southern states to meet at Richmond; an enumeration. and discussion of some points to be discussed at such a convention...._._ A lecture on the trials and dangers of frontier life, Janµary 28, 1851: history of the colonization of Texas; the Texas revolution; the San Jacinto campaign; finances of the Republic of Texas; his policy of effecting annexation; rapid immigration into Texas; rights of married women; loyalty of Texas to the union...·-··-·--····-···-···-- To Robert Wilson, February 8, 1851, thanking him for favors..---·- To Henderson Yoakum, February 10, 1851, a friendly letter giving some information concerning his personal ambition for the presidency..-- To Mrs. James R. Jones, February 11, 1851, expressing willingness to lecture, February 12, on any subject that the ladies of the Harris- burg Episcopal church might choose ---··--·-·····---- A Speech, February 12, 1851, opposing the creation of the rank of lieutenant genei-al: no need for such an officer in time of peace; General Scott had not been breveted, because he had already attained the acme of military rank; medals and swords delivered to him were substitutes for the usual brevet·------·-·-··-··-
261
267 281
282
283
284 To Henderson Yoakum, February 19, 1851, concerning certain docu- ments from which Yoakum might collect a fee.....·--···-···-····-·--·-- 287
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MARCH, 1851-APRIL, 1851
PAGE To Griffith Owen, March 1, 1851, promising to read a certain manu- script _____ --- 287
To Henderson Yoakum, March 1, 1851, concerning Mrs. Houston's trial_ Speech, March 3, 1851, on the rivers and harbors bill: views on internal improvements, latitudinous constitutional constructions, and public debt To Henderson Yoakum, March 3, 1851, concerning Mrs. Houston's case in court - -----····- ----- -- ----····-·--··-·---·-···---- Remarks, March 10, 1851, on the constitution of South Carolina: that constitution produces an oligarchy, because the people as a whole do not express an opinion..·- - ··--·--·--··-·------ MAY, 1851-DECEMBER, 1851
287
288
292
293
To Nicholas Dean, May 8, 1851; thanks Dean for recommending a satis- factory nurse maid, and tells about his farming experiences, and incidences of his home life...·--·-··---·-·- ·--- ·-- ___ ____ _ 297 To Henderson Yoakum, June 13, 1851; invites Yoakum to a family dinner to meet Elisha Pease, and Sam Hay..·--·-·····----··-·--·-···-··· 299 To John R. Burke, July 19, 1851; invites Burke to pay him a visit; tells about his children.---·-···--·--···---·--·--·-··----·-·-·····-··---·-·--·-···--·--·--302 To Henderson Yoakum, July 19, 1851; concerns witnesses in Mrs. Houston's trial - ------------·····--·---·-···-·---·------------··--·----304 To Henderson Yoakum, August 9, 1851, relative to a remedy for the illness of his son, Sam_______ _______________ 304 To Henderson Yoakum, August 31, 1851, telling' about a visit that he was about to make·---···--·-·-----·-·---·-··-····- ···-·---··-···-·------304 To Samuel McKinney, September 1, 1851, concerning a fodder crop......_ 305 To Henderson Yoakum, September 1, 1851; tells about a. disagreement between himself and Dr. Samuel McKinney concerning the gathering of fodder ___ - ----···------ ·-··------- 306 To James Kemp Holland, September 4, 1851; expresses pleasant anticipations of a visit from James K. Holland and his father.____. 307 To Milton McClanahan, September 10, 1851; tells how to recover a lost discharge ····---·--·---- ----·-·--··----·--··----·--··-····-·--·············---309 To the Editor of the Texas Monument, September 27, 1851, stating that he did not know a person named C. H. Donelson··-···--·-····-···-·------·-··· 309 A speech in the Presbyterian church at Huntsville, October 6, 1851, in defense of his record: his reasons for supporting the bill for the organization of, the Oregon territory, the admission of California to statehood, the Compromise of 1850; an account of the San Jacinto campaign; his policy on annexation, and other presidential policies; the Texas boundary settlement, and slavery···········--····-····-···-........ 310 To John Woods Ha rris, October 7, 1851, concerning personal affairs.._ ._ 314 To John H. Houston, October 11, 1851; Houston sends a synopsis of his speech, and says that he intends to speak in Tammany Hall during the winter --- --·-··-----·-···-··-·---·-····-·-·-·-···-·····--···········-····-·--316
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PAGE A Speech, December 22, 1851, opposing the re-affirmation of the Com- promise of 1850: a statement of his political principles-that repre- sentatives and senators should reflect, not shape the views of their constituents; reiteration of the Compromise of 1850, unnecessary and inadvisable; defence of his vote on the provisions of the compromise; a tribute to Henry Clay; discussion of the Nashville Convention; reflections on the constitution of South Carolina________ 317 JANUARY, 1852-JULY, 1852 A Lecture on the North American Indians, January 5, 1852, at Hart- ford, Connecticut, a eulogy on the Indian character_ _____________ 337 To Joseph L. Noble, February 12, 1852; sends his autograph________ 337 To Ashbel Smith, April 6, 1852; asks that his portrait be sent to him__ 338 To Messrs. Case, Tiffany & Company, May 10, 1852, in reference to a book, published by that firm. ------·-·-·----------·- 340 To Hezekiah Brown, May 11, 1852, concerning a lecture engagement__ 340 To Robert G. Scott, May 20, 1852; states that he voted for each and every measure constituting the Compromise of 1850________ 340 Remarks on the Indian relations on the Texas frontier, May 31, 1852: inefficiency of Indian agents and of frontier garrisons stressed____ 341 To Ashbel Smith, June 2, 1852; asks Smith to come by the next train to see hi.....____________________ 345 To Lewis S. Coryell, June 13, 1852; accepts an invitation to make an address at New Hope, Pennsylvania_____________ 346 To Lewis S. Coryell, June 19, 1852, saying that he would arrive at Minton on July 3, 1852____________________ 346 To Lewis S. Coryell, June 30, 1852; says that he cannot make the address at New Hope, on July 4, because he had been selected as .a member of the Senate committee to accompany the remains of Henry Clay to Kentucky __________ ______ 346 To Thomas J. Rusk, and George T. Howard, July 1, 1852, asking that one of them would lecture in his stead at New Hope on July 5..----- 347 To Sam Houston, Jr., July 19, 1852; tells of presents for the family_ 347 To Peter Force, July 23, 1852; asks Force to cite sources of informa- tion concerning Jean La Fitte______ _________ 349 A speech August 11, 1852, on the appropriation for the Indians in California: the necessity of the Indians caused by their removal from their accustomed means of subsistence; the important ques- tion-whether or not the money appropriated will be applied to the object contemplated; the condition of the Indians is desperate; the Indians never the first to break treaty pledges: specific ex- amples _________________ _ __ 349 To Gideon Welles, August 15, 1852; commends the internal policy of Welles as wise and practical..___ · __________ 354 To Sam Houston, Jr., August 16, 1852, a letter of affection and home talk . ___ ····-354 Brief remarks, August 17, 1852, urging delay in considering the rivers and harbors bill_______________ _ _____________________ 355 Remarks, August 26, 1852, on the provision of the public debt of Texas: the law of 1850 made the United States liable for the Texas debt;
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PAGE Texas had not repudiated any of her debt--had made several pledges of revenue from imports to redeem loans; Texas able to regulate her own affairs, let the United States take what action it may --------------------------- ____ 356 Remarks, August 27, 1852, on a bill to pay for public printing: Mr. Ritchie had lost heavily on his contract with the government, and the government should give him some recompense________ 357 Remarks, August 28, 1852, concerning contracts for public works: a resolution offered to the effect that the materials used be measured according to the original contract, and no further payment be made until the measurements be taken; also, that good and sufficient security be given by contractors_______________________________ 359 To Lewis S. Coryell, August 28, 1852; regrets that he will not be able to accept the invitation to lecture at New Hope; promises to address citizens of Coryell's town on the next "Holy-days"----------361 Remarks, August 30, 1852, on the naval appropriation bill ____ 361 Remarks, August 30, 1852, on the light house bill: disapproves of rush- ing the bill, unless the need be urgent; proposes to let the measure rest until the next Congress______ ______ _______ 362 To Guy M. Bryan, November 15, 1852: a review of his relations with Stephen F. Austin from December, 1833, until Austin's death, December 27, 1836; his attitude and statements concerning Austin's memory ------------------------ _______________ 364 JANUARY, 1853-MARCH, 1853 To Franklin Pierce, January 28, 1853, congratulating Pierce upon his election to the Presidency, and offers advice: the responsibility of the President to the people; his right to select his cabinet, free from all influences; a warning against the "jobbing system"_________ 370 To his daughter Nannie, February 2, 1853, telling of a locket he has for her -------------------------------374 A resolution on the marine corps, February 4, 1853: inquiry to be made concerning the method employed for supplying the marine corps with clothing, arms, and subsistence; the expediency of a thorough organization of the marine corps________________ ____________ 374 Speech, February 11, 1853, on the bill that provided for the Texas debt: increases in the debt due to Lamar's questionable policies; nature of the debt; tendency of the present debt-holders to speculate; economical administration of Texas after 1841; defence of the scaling of the debt; oppositioll! to full payment of debt by the United States ------------------------------- 375 Remarks, February 16, 1853, on the deficiency appropriation bill: salaries should not be increased dispropo1·tionate to duties per- . formed; the chief of the census bureau not favorably commended to the Senate; a review of the facts in the case_____________________________ 388 Remarks, February 19, 1853, concerning the railroad to the Pacific: The power of the general government to perform a work of this kind if it is necessary to carry out the provisions of the constitution, and if it is of a national, not a local character___________________________ __ 395
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XVI
PAGE To his daughter, Nannie, February 17, 1853, pronnsmg to send her a pretty paper ·----- ___________________ ____ 397 Remarks, February 23, 1853, in defence of the Indians in Florida: dis- approval of calling out the militia to remove them; the Indians are willing to go West and unite with their brethren under suitable agents; the inability of the militia to conquer the Indians; the cost of one company of militia per year would be $1,200,000; while $10,000 or $15,000 in hands of capable agent sufficient for the work -------'--------------------------- 397 Remarks, February 25, 1853, on the proposition to substitute the civil for the military superintendency in the national armories: Civilian workers feel humiliated to have to salute military officers, and perform other regimented acts; officers and military men should not feel reflection on them by the change______ _____________ 401 Remarks, March 1, 1853, on the Texas debt, and for the issue of certain certificates of stocks to Texas in payment thereof: speculation in the Texas debt; the Santa Fe expedition; Houston's desire to pay the first debts of Texas; comment on William Gouge and his financial history of Texas,_ _________ _______________ 404 Remarks, March 2, 1853, concerning the territory of Nebraska______ 411 Speech, March 2, 1853, opposing the reaffirmation of the principles of the Monroe Doctrine: revival of the question is impolitic; history of the Monroe Doctrine; the career of Kossuth; comparison made between the Texas revolution and the invasion of Cuba; a review of the history of Texas; a eulogy of Jackson__________________ 411 Remarks, March 3, 1853, on the Indian appropriation bill: the Indian treaty was with the United States, not with the state of Florida; an amendment to the bill offered, providing that the sum appro- priated be paid to the tribe per capita, and the culprit punished if the provisions be violated -------- ------------------------------------ 428 Remarks, March 3, 1853, on the civil and diplomatic appropriation bilL_ 432 A eulogium upon the Indians, March 3, 1853____ _______________________ 433 Remarks, March 17, 1853, opposing payment of per diem and mileage to David L. Yulee _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ___________________ _ _________ 440 A resolution, April 5, 1853, to print 1,000 copies of Bartlett and Gray's Explorations of the Mexican Botmdary: authors are scientific men; their conclusions were formed after long observations and investiga- tions of the country between Texas and California; a concern to the whole nation,____________ _____________________ 442 To Mrs. James A. Carr, April 8, 1853, concerning the payment of a pension ____________ ·------ _________ _ 446 To Guy M. Bryan, May 19, 1853, asking for a copy of a former letter__ 447 To Washington D. Miller, June 10, 1853; asks Miller to arrange a gathering on July 15, or 20, at which time he and Thomas J. Rusk might speak to the people of Austin and vicinity; asks about the collection of money owed to him by Thomas W. Ward; asks for a copy of the secret act of the Texas congress, concerning the sale of the Texas navy_____ _ ________ ______ 447
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PAGE To Washington D. Miller, June 30, 1853: puts the collection of the Ward note in Miller's hands; mentions various political heart-burnings; gives family news-a seven-year-old daughter was studying Latin__ 450 To James Buchanan, July 1, 1853, introducing Thomas S. Lubbock_______ 453 Extracts from a speech at Nacogdoches, July 1, 1853: true policy of Texas is to concentrate energies on a Pacific railroad____________________ 453 To Guy M. Bryan, August 3, 1853, thanking him for a copy of the letter for which he had asked.____________________________________ ____ 454 To Washington D. Miller, August 24, 1853; tells of intention to remove the family residence from Huntsville to Independence; instructs Miller where to obtain papers concerning the Ward case; other personal affairs ·-·-----··· ----·-···--·---·- ____ 455 To Washington D. Miller, September 13, 1853: details relative to the Ward case; description of the new home at Independence; friendly matters ___ --------··---·-··------·-····--- 456 To Washington D. Miller, October 7, 1853, concP.rning the settlement of the Ward case ---·····-------·-----------------458 To Guy M. Bryan, November 1, 1853: a review of his relations with Stephen F. Austin, and the unfriendliness of the Austin family to himself -------------·--------- ___________ 459 To Mr. Sarla, November 28, 1853, concerning furniture damaged in transit ____________ _____ ----····-·----463 JANUARY, 1854.-MARCH, 1854 Remarks, January 16, 1854, concerning remuneration for the rescuers of passengers from the steamship "San Francisco"---····----·-····--·- 464 To Washington D. Miller, February 6, 1854, concerning land deals__ 46.6 Remarks, February 7, 1854, concerning a speech to. be made on the Kansas-Nebraska bill; Houston gives notice that he will make a speech on the subject__________________ ---- 467 A motion, February 8, 1854, to admit ladies to the floor of the Senate__ 468 Speech, February 14-15, 1854, opposing the Kansas-Nebraska bill: an- nounces hims~lf to be a champion for Indians in general, and for those in Kansas and Nebraska, especially; reviews relations between the Indians and the United States Government from the Hopewell treaty with the Cherokees of Tennessee, in 1785, showing that the United States Indian policy has always been one of broken pledges and exploitation; he proposes a more economical policy--one based on redress of Wl'ongs, honest dealing, and the keeping of pledges; argues that Indians secured in the possession of their homes and land holdings would quickly adopt the arts of peace and civilization; 1·everts to his former discussion of the Texas-Ne,v Mexico situa- tion; proposes. removal of all United States troops, and the appropriation of the cost of such troops to the Indians; states that Ben McCulloch with 1,000 soldiers and adequate appropriations could civilize every Indian east of the Rocky Mountains in ten years; asserts that annuities, and strict observance of treaties will prove to be the only solution of the Indian problem; gives reasons
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PAGE for bis vote against the Kansas-Nebraska bill, and his position concerning the repeal of the Missouri Compromise_____ 469 To Washington D. Miller, March 2, 1854; tells that he had arranged with William W. Corcoran for the extension of Miller's note____ 503 Speech, March 3, 1854, opposing the Kansas-Nebraska bill: the meas- ure would shake the foundations of the nation; the repeal of the Missouri Compromise not necessary to the organization of Nebraska as a state; population of Kansas and Nebraska together not suf- ficient to form one populous county-population chiefly United States soldiers and Indians; a recounting of the method of state organization; the impossibility of preventing the Kansas-Nebraska issue from assuming a sectional nature; a review of the Missouri Compromise-a part of the constitution of Texas; Texas would be injured by the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, it would be treason against the northern Democrats who had fought for south- ern rights concerning slavery; the Indian question again discussed- justice should be shown the Indians, treaty pledges and government promises should be kept; a closing discussion of the Kansas- Nebraska bill-decision of the question would determine union, or disunion ___ ____ _ ____________ 504 Speech, March 14, 1854, defending the right of petition: 3,000 preachers, "vicegerents of God,'' had petitioned against the repeal of the Missouri Compromise: repeal of the compromise a breach of faith, and citizens believing so had the right to petition against the act; the petition of the ministers misunderstood by the Senate_____ 523
THE WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON
1824-1836
To JOHN H. HOUSTON 1
Nashville (Tenn), 28th August 1824 My dear Houston, You suppose me a scamp, and justly so. But hear me in extenuation of my sins. I am just out of sick bed. This season is without any parallel here, for disease of the most fatal character. We have lost some of our best citizens, and some distinguished for talents. I will not describe the disease particularly, but only state that most persons become yellow when attacked-yet it is not termed "Yellow fever." By this disease I was beset, and confined. My health is now restored. Your letter gave me great pleasure, and, the cause of many pleasurable emotions, was the consideration held of me by Mr. Pleasontons family, to whom you will please to present my most cordial and respectful salutations. I need not tell you how much I have been engaged in business since my arrival home. I have had no leisure, at court continually -and sometimes laboriously engaged there. Old Hickory will get the South and West-there is no doubt- & N. York will yet see that she cannot make Billy Crawford President-Jackson or Adams, will succeed, but I think Jackson will be the man.. The Tariff will not affect Jackson in the South. How are all our friends in the City? Commend me to them- I may yet have many pleasant winters with them; as yet I have no opposition for next term, but I think I will have just such as I can beat with ease. What of my own affairs in the So. any news from there? How does Conway wear to the South? On these matters are you informed? Write soon. I will answer your next promptly; and about the 20th of October I will leave this for So. Carolina. Tell the relatives of my Friday (Gustavus) that he is well & much pleased. .
WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1824-1836
2
To all my friends commend me affectionately, and accept the most affectionate assurance of my sincere friendship. Sam Houston J. H. Houston Esq [Addressed]: John H. Houston Esq ·washington City D. Columbia ioriginals in posse~sion of Mr. W. A. Philpott, Dallas, Texas. A photo- static copy is in The University of Texas Library.
To JOHN H. HousToN 1
Petersburg Va 12th March 1825 My door Houston-The night before I left Washington I slept none; nor the next night, did I close my eyes, but traveled the livelong night. Instead of being as I calculated 40 miles on my route to the South I have only come from Richmond to day 22 miles. My appointment is to be in Cheraw on the 20th-with luck I will be there on the 18th. You are not aware how much I was disappointed in not seeing you, to tell you at least-God bless you! T'oo I would have made you hand me the Ridges Talk. Houston you must make out 2 very handsome copies of that, and send to me at Cheraw; put them in separate papers, and fold them neatly. I promised them to ladies, and as you write so fine a hand, I will tax you that far -already having evidences of your very kind and flattering regard for me ! My friend Dumest's knife, I sent back from Fredericksburg to my friend Col Allen at Burches-you may address me at Cheraw until the 25th of March, as I wi1l not leave there before sometime after 1st of April, perhaps the 7th-and a letter will pass from Cheraw to Washington; and the reverse in 4 days! God bless your girl, and to all my friends, and croneys com- mend me! Thine Truly Sam Houston Mr. Jno. H. Houston [Addressed]: Free Sam Houston Mr. Jno. H. Houston Washington City D. C. 1Qriginal in possession of Mr. W. A. Philpott, Dallas, Texas. A photo· static copy is in The University of Texas Library.
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