WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1853
402
armories were in quite as prosperous a condition under civil, as they have been under military rule. I do not wish to disparage either; but from the very nature of the work, and the character of the mechanics and artisans who are employed in it, it is clear that harmony never can exist between a military ruler and civil employees. One has ideas of discipline and obedience for man, and the others have pride to prompt them. If they are not con- strained by military authority, harmony may exist between the superintending authority and the employees, but then it will depend, not on the caprice of individuals, but on their superior qualifications and industry; and civilians will judge more im- partially of these things than military gentlemen, accustomed to command, can ever do. So long as military gentlemen remain in command of civilians, not subject to the rules and regulations of war expressly, you will never have harmony and never have a successful operation of the business of the armories... We all know the duties of regular soldiers, and I like to see etiquette, discipline, subordination, and respect from them to their officers. I like to see it in the employees of the government, and fidelity to their engagements ; but I would ask the honorable chairman of the Committee on Military Affairs, if it is not true that the civilians never approach the commandant of the armory without saluting him as a regular soldier would do? I understand that that is required of them, and it is looked upon by them as an act of humiliation to which they do not wish to submit. I am for subordination in the Army-I am for courtesy in civil life. Men are willing to accord it when it is not exacted as a duty. But if you exact it of any citizens, mechanics, or othewise, they never will perform it with a good grace; for all men who are free have pride. They may do it with great deference if de- pendent upon their own choice, but if you make it a duty and exact it of them, they never will render willing and quiescent obedience... I think the amendment of the gentleman from Illinois is defective in one particular, and I think when his attention is called to it, he will perceive it himself. It does not state what number of civilians shall be selected for the purpose of investi- gating.this subject, or what number of Army officers. I think it would be necessary to insert something as to the number. [Mr. Shields spoke.] I will answer the gentleman as he has presented his proposi- tions. I think that the gentlemen in command of the armories
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