WRITINGS OF SAM: HOUSTON, 1849
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Mr. Houston. It was made from actual survey as reported at the land offices of the State. Mr. Davis. All the maps that I have seen of that country contain gross errors in regard to latitude and longitude. Unless this is a map made from actual survey and by competent persons, I think we are liable to be led into error by it. I ask, therefore, that the resolution lie over for a day, in order that we may make some examination into the matter. Mr. Houston. I do not know upon what standard, sir, we will arrive at a knowledge of the correctness of this map. So far as I have been able to give my attention to the subject, (and I believe I may speak for my colleague also,) and from a familiar acquaintance with the country, I should pronounce this a correct map-certainly much more correct than any map of that country heretofore published. And for that reason, sir, as there is no prospect of getting a better, or one so good as this is, I think we ought not to hesitate to procure this one. The resolution proposes to refer the matter to the Secretary of the Senate for his con- sideration and action. If I did not believe that it would be serviceable to us I should not have offered the resolution. I have no private end to subserve by its procurement; but I hope the resolution will be adopted and the map obtained, in order that justice may be done to that section of the country which has furnished more and received less from this Government than any other portion of this Union. [Discussion followed: Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, and James A. Pearce, of Maryland.] Mr. Houston. I have no objection that the resolution should be postponed for a day. I have no particular desire to precipitate its adoption; but, at the same time, the reason why it ought to be published is, that it is the most correct and authentic map of Texas that is extant; and I have no doubt that an examination of it will convince Senators that such is the case. I was not apprised of the resolution presented by the Senator from Mississippi last session in regard to a map, nor was I aware that any topograph- ical reconnoissance was being made of that country; and unless such topographical reconnoissance is being made by gentlemen traversing the country, I should doubt whether the map to be made will be comparable to this. This map has been compiled from surveys of the country. Every county of the State, every land title, has been laid down, the distances ascertained, the
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