WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1854
489
I might here close my remarks in relation to this bill. On one branch of it, I have endeavored, however imperfectly, to present my objections to it. I have indicated at least reasons sufficient to cause me to vote in the negative upon it. Nor is there a necessity for coupling three such important subjects together- Nebraska, containing a population not sufficient to warrant the organization and which is nearly all Indian territory; Kansas, which is entirely held and occupied by Indians, without a white settler; and the repeal of the Missouri compromise, an important and substantive consideration for the American people. All these are placed in this omnibus shape, and presented to the Senate for action. They are not to be separated, I presume, sir; and as my position in relation to the repeal of the Missouri com- promise, if unexplained, might not exactly be comprehended, I must speak of it. This subject is not a new one to me. I have met it of old, not in its present phase, but in one equally as formidable and imposing as on the present occasion. Although I stood alone in the South, with the exception of a southwestern Senator, [Mr. Benton, of Missouri,] I expressed my opinion, and voted my principle upon it. I supported the Missouri compromise, Mr. President, in its application to Oregon. I gave my reasons for it; and although denunciations, loud and deep, were uttered, I did not falter in the discharge of a duty which devolved upon me, and which I am as ready to mee~ on this occasion as in any former emergency. I know, sir, that abuse of the most vitupera- tive and bitter character has been directed against me in advance of any position which I have taken on this occasion. Although I had determined to vote against the bill, and the Indian pro- visions furnished insuperable objections to it, I have not denounced its general features. I am not anxious to eschew any responsi- bility that arises out of it to myself. If I was not anxious to meet it, it was because I thought it presented subjects that should not have been brought before the Senate. For the information of the Senate, though it is very seldom that I refer to newspapers and their publications, but from the re- spectability and long standing of the press which has promulgated the following, I feel that I am perfectly justified in submitting it to the Senate, that they may appreciate the spirit whirh must actuate some in relation to the agitation of this subject. I degire to read from a letter, dated Washington, 6th day of February.
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