WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1849
110
encourage any of the ultra opinions of the South, is, to my mind, a proof that he regards his mission as a mission of peace, and not himself as the agent of this cause. With a full conviction upon my mind that his intention is purely to promote the good of mankind-to add to the general sum of felicity-I am brought to the conclusion, sir, to support the resolution. I cannot see that it is at all connected with any political consideration whatever; and I think, from the evidence adduced before·the Senate, that the very contrary is his state of feeling now, and that he is determined to stand aloof from all the agita- tions of this country, but that he might, at one period, from the scenes of misery surrounding him in Ireland, as so eloquently described by the Senator from Alabama, have deprecated the horrors of slavery in any nation; and believing it as existing in the United States far beyond what he saw manifested in Ireland, in a moment of immature years, compared to those he now wears, he may have performed an act which was culpable. But if it 'Wa.s culpable, he has relieved himself from it by refusing in the United States to participate in the agitation which unfortunately exists in this country. I commend him for it, sir. He goes not with a torch of discord, but with a bond of peace, reformation, and redemption, to an unfortunate class in the community. I sir, am a disciple. I needed the discipline of reformation, and I embraced it. I am proud upon this floor to proclaim it, sir; and would that I could enforce the example upon every American heart that influences or is influenced by filial affection, conjugal love, or parental tenderness. Yes, sir, there is love, purity, and fidelity, inscribed upon the banner that he bears. It has nothing to do with abolition or with nullification, sir. Away witli your paltry objection to men who come bearing the binnacle above the turbid waters which unfortunately roll at the foot of this mighty Republic! It is unfortunate for us, that when great questions are pre- sented to the Senate, when the nation thrills, and when the heart's core of patriotism is wrung with vital affection, then comes up the objection to courtesy and civility to a foreigner. A foreigner ! Yes, sir; from the land of our •ancestors, from Erin's isle he came; and he came on a mission of peace and good- will. And could not this little testimony of respect indicate his welcome here among the representatives of millions? Could not
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