121
WRlTINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1850
between the conflicting interests and prejudices in this country. I believe, in the first place, that the Congress of the United States does not possess the power to legislate upon the subject of slavery, either within the Territories or in any other section of the Union. This averment is contained in the resolution which I have pre- sented, and, whatever the decision of this body may be with reference to the subject, I have great reason to defer to the opinions of gentlemen si1perior to myself in knowledge, and experience. Nevertheless, in my humble way, I have the right to interpose my opinion where the interests of the country, and every individual within the Confederacy, are so vitally and materially affected. It is equally my duty to express here such sentiments as I entertain upon a subject which involves, as I consider, not only my interests and the interests of my con- stituents, but the dearest interests of every citizen of the United States. For, sir, if the Constitution is disregarded, or the power of construction is admitted to belong to Congress, beyond the letter of the Constitution, where it is not indispensable to the existence of the nation, I maintain it is an act of usurpation and ought not to be exercised. The North contend that they have a right to interfere with the subject of slavery; hence the Wilmot proviso. 2 The South contend that the North has no such right-no right to interfere with the subject of slavery anywhere; and hence the principle is contended for that Congress does not possess this power as applicable to the Territories-no power arising from the terms of the union be- tween the North and the South-none growing out of the Con- stitution by which they are bound together. Nor do I believe that Congress has, under the Constitution, any authority to im- pose upon States asking' for admission into the Union any condi- tion whatever, other than that of having a republican form of government. In this view I am sustained by high authority-no less than that of a statesman of long experience and distinguished reputation: I allude to the Senator from South Carolina, who is now absent from his seat [Mr. Calhoun;] and in mentioning him, permit me to express my sincere regret for the cause which has withheld him from the discharge of his duties in this house. No one feels more sympathy for his physical sufferings than myself. That gentleman, in laying down his principles upon this subject in 1847, declared them, in a resolution of that day, almost in the terms of the resolution just read. I had not the benefit of the light of that resolution when I drew the one submitted by me;
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