The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume VI

The Writings of Sam Houston, Vol. VI

THE WRITINGS

SAM HOUSTON

1813-1863

EDITED BY

AMELIA W. WILLIAMS AND EUGENE C. BARKER

VOLUME VI JANUARY 30, 1828- FEBRUARY 25, 1858

AUSTIN, TEXAS THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS PRESS 1941

PREFACE

With this volume, the editors reach the limit estimated for the publication of the WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON. Incoming sup- plementary material greatly exceeded our hopes and expecta- tions, so that it becomes necessary to extend the work to ten volumes, including an index. The circumstances which gave rise to this collection and made its publication possible have been explained in previous Prefaces. We are indebted for contri- butions in this volume to Messrs. Temple H. Morrow, and W. A. Philpott, of Dallas, Texas, and to Mrs. Margaret John, Mrs. Madge W. Hearne, Mrs. Jennie Decker, and Mr. Ike Moore of Houston, Texas; to all of whom we return grateful thanks.

EUGENE C. BARKER.

CALENDAR 1828-1832

PAGE To Mrs. Nathan Morse, January 30, 1828, sending her a lock of Andrew Jackson's hair ____________ __________ _____ 1 1832-1853 To John H. Houston, December 2, 1832, about to enter Texas; discusses politics and affairs in general _________________ 1 To Samuel Swartwout, March 22, 1837, thanks him for aid to Texas vessels in New York harbor, and tells him that only the Texas judiciary is competent to pass on land claims _ _ ____ ____ 2 To M. P. Norton, July 14, 1844; reports serious illness, and asks for news ---------------------------- 4 A Review of the San Jacinto Campaign, a speech at Houston, summer of 1845 ___________ ______ ----·------ 5 To an Invitation Committee, September 2, 1845, consenting to address the citizens of Marion, Alabama, on September 13, 1845________________ 14 To Memucan Hunt, April 6, 1846, thanking him for a newsy letter________ 15 To Samuel Swartwout, April 29, 1846, thanking him for a friendly letter 16 To William Duncan, December 6, 1847, concerning depredations by authority of A. J. Yates on the timber on his estate at Cedar Point___ 16 Resolutions, December 25, 1847, concerning the Mexican War_____ 18 To the Secretary of the Tammany Society, June 25, 1852, regretting that he had a previous engagement for the July 4 celebration____ 20 To Mrs. Houston, June 25, 1852, a brief note explaining that George S. Houston, a member of the House of Representatives from Alabama, was a relative ________________________ 21 A Speech, [sometime in 1853] opposing legislation concerning religion and prohibition--------------------------- 21 APRIL-JULY, 1854 To James Buchanan, April 13, 1854, introducing A. J. Ruthven__ ____ 26 Remarks on his own resolution, June 14, 1854, proposing an earlier hour for the meeting of the Senate - - -------------- 26 To his daughter Nancy Elizabeth Houston, June 16, 1854, an expression of affection for all his children ------ ------- -- 28 To Lewis S. Coryell, June 21, 1854, stating that he had already accepted an invitation to be at Reading, Pennsylvania on July 4, 1854.___ 29 · Remarks, July 12, 1854, concerning E. W. Moore_, ________ 29 A Speech, July 15, 1854, answering E. W. Moore's letter to the Senator from Maryland ------ --- ---- ------------ 80 Remarks, July 27, 1854, concerning the Auxiliary Guard____ _ 64 Remarks, July 27, 1854, on the Civil and Diplomatic bill_ ___ _ _ _ 65 Remarks, July 30, 1854, concerning the Homestead bill_ _ _ ___ 66 Remarks, July 31, 1854, on the Rivers and Harbor bill_____ __ 72 A Request, July 31, 1854, for an early meeting of the Senate on August 1 74

CALENDAR

AUGUST-DECEMBER, 1854

PAGE Speech on Thomas Jefferson Green, August 1, 1854-···:--------~-:-·--- 74 Remarks, August 3, 1854, opposing supervision of armories by military officers--------------------------------- 95 Remarks, August 3, 1854, on the Naval appropriation bilL___-:-··------ 97 To Elisha M. Pease, November 7, 1854, concerning appropriations for railroads--------------------------------- 105 To Ashbel Smith, December 31, 1854, asking him to make a professional visit ____ ____ -------------··------------------·-· 106 JANUARY, 1855 Remarks, January 19, 1855, concerning relief for Captain Thomas Ap Catesby Jones __________ _ ______ 107 To Dr. J. W. Stone, January 25, 1855, concerning his speech at Boston on February 22 --·----- ____ ·--------- 108 Remarks, January 26, 1855, concerning relief for the owners and the cre\V of the Brig "General Armstrong" ________ 109 Remarks, January 30, 1855, concerning the Gag system_________ 110 Speech January 29, 31, 1855, on the Increase of the Army and the Indian policy of the government: only mounted volunteer troops effective in Indian warfare; Indians would respond quickly to justice and kind treatment, especially an opportunity to trade; injustice and harsh treatment would perpetuate Indian depredations and warfare 111

FEBRUARY-MA:Y, 1855 To Dr. J. W. Stone, February 7, 1855, concerning his speech at Boston__ To the Auditor of the State of Texas, February 9, 1855, enclosing a letter from Zimri Hunt _________________ To Zimri Hunt, February 10, 1855, concerning the claims of Martha Stephenson, formerly Martha Thompson, against the state.____ Remarks, February 14, 1855, on the Indian appropriation bill: concern- ing injustice done the Indians by their agents, Medill and the Ewings ·--·---------------- Remarks, February 16, 1855, concerning the pamphlet of Thomas Jefferson Green, a copy of which had been laid on every Senator's desk ----··--·--------- To "Dear General," February 20, 1866, a cryptic note not easily understood ----··------------·------- To Gideon Granger, February 20, 1855, regretting that he could not accept an invitation ---------------·--··--··-··-·-·--····-·-----------·- Extracts from the Tremont Temple Speech at Boston, February 22, 1865: subject, slavery discussion of origin, why fastened on the South; a plea that the.North let the South alone in its institutions_ Remarks, March 3, 1865, concerning a proposed amendment to the Civil and Diplomatic bill ··-·--·-----------------.--- To Mrs. Signourney, March 6, 1855, thanking her for the gift of a volume of her poems ····--··--·--··----· h th To G. F. H. Prockett, May 2, 1855, sending his two laS t speec es on e army and the Indians ·--·-----·--··-·--···----··-······

156

157

167

169

166

167

i ! ; I l i I '

178

179

180

·-

Vll

CALENDAR

PAGE A Synopsis of a Speech at Nacogdoches, May 11, 1855, discussing: the_ Texas debt, state system of internal improvements, especially rail- roads and their development in Texas____________ 180 JUNE-DECEMBER, 1856 A Speech, June 9, 1855, being a review of the San Jacinto campaign_ 184 To John Hancock, July 21, 1855, stating that he enclosed to him a letter to Hamilton Stuart, at Galveston ______________ 191 A Letter, presumably to Hamilton Stuart, July 24, 1855, stating Houston's opinions concerning the "American Order"______ 192 Synopsis of a Speech at Washington, Texas, August 2, 1855, berating Pierce's administration and his diplomatic appointees, discussion of the principles of Know-Nothingism _______________ 199 Synopsis of a Speech at Brenham, October 20, 1855, discussing the corruptions of the Pierce administration, and the principles of the "American Order" ______________________ 204 To Ashbel Smith, November 20, 1855, saying that he wished to see Smith------------------------ 207 Speech delivered at a Know-Nothing Mass Barbecue at Austin, November 23, 1855, discussing the principles of Know-Nothingism, and his reasons for joining the party ________________ 209 To Ashbel Smith, December 8, 1855, asking that Smith use his utmost influence in behalf of the widow of Captain Ross of the Yellow- stone --------------------------- 235 Extract from an address at Nacogdoches, December 21, 1856, opposing a bill for the naturalization of foreigners _____________ 236 JANUARY-MARCH, 1856 To Mrs. Houston, probably in January, 1856_______________________ ___ 238 T. A. H. Mickle, February 11, 1856, concerning his letter to President Pierce, January 28, 1853 _____ ________ ___ . 238 To Mrs. E. E. Ewing, February 17, 1856, concerning the education of her son, Gustus __________ ___ ______ _ _ 239 Remarks concerning Charges against Naval Officers, February 21, 1856_ 240 To his daughter, Nancy Elizabeth (Nannie), February 24, 1856, express- ing paternal affection for his children _________ 241 A resolution, March 4, 1856, concerning instructions to naval officers__ 242 A resolution, March 4, 1856, asking that the Secretary of the Navy be requested to give information concerning the salaries of naval officers of all grades ------------ -------- 242 To Mrs. Houston, March 5, 1856, an affectionate family letter_ _ ___ 244 A resolution concerning the action of the Naval Retiring Board, March 10, 1856 ------------- --------------- 245 Remarks, March 10, concerning charges against naval officers.____________ 246 Speech, March 18, 1866, concerning the action of the Naval Retiring Board, also resolutions, chiefly concerning the laying off of various officers to promote the interests of favorites...............:......._____________ 247

CALENDAR

Vlll

PAGE To Peter W. Gray, March 22, 1856, concerning the reported retirement of Judge Gray's brother, Lieutenant Edward W. Gray from the 298 navy To Mrs. Ana S. Stephens, Marrb. 22, 1856, concerning the presidential nomination by the Philadelphia convention of 1856_______ 299 To Joseph Smith, March 26, 1856, concerning charges made by Thomas Jefferson Green ____________________ 301 APRIL-JULY, 1856 Remarks, April 3, 1856, on a resolution calling for the court-martial proceedings in the trial of Captain Ritchie,__________ 302 Report of a speech at Baltimore, April 7, 1856: it opposed increase of the army, naval and military academies, and defended slavery in the South _____________________ 305 To Mrs. Houston, April 18, 1856, a newsy family letter_______ 305 Speech, April 23, 1866, condemning the action of the Naval Retiring Board, accusing them of favoritism and injustice, and citing various incidents to prove his contentions ______________ 306 Remarks, July 15, 1856, on the action of the Naval Retiring Board _ 356 To John Hancock, July 21, 1856, a discussion of politics and political parties _______________________ 358 Remarks, July 23, 1856, concerning the improvement of the harbor of Milwaukee ___________________ 363 To M. D. Phillips, July 23, 1866, stating that there had been no amend- ments made to the Texas constitution since the time mentioned in Phillips' letter ___________________ 364 AUGUST-DECEMBER, 1856 To Robert A. Irion, August 1, 1856, sending spectacle case and telling political news ______________________ 364 Remarks, August 14, 1856, opposing employment of army officers in civil works: injustice to the community in general; cuts off competition; discourages men in civil life to qualify for positions of trust, etc._ 365 Remarks, August 15, 1866, opposing retroactive provisions to increase senators' salaries ____________________ 372 To Sam Houston, Jr., August 15, 1856, a letter of affection and advice_ 372 Remarks, August 16, 1866, on the post office appropriation bill____ 373 Remarks, August 16, 1866, opposing increase of the army engineering corps: not necessary; army growing too large-.- - - - - - 374 Speech, August 30, 1866, concerning the general confusion and anta~- onism among the statesmen of the Thirty-fourth Congress: condi- tions in Kansas; his position relative to the Kansas bill; his belief that the repeal of the Missouri Compromise caused all the trou?le; discussion of the American Party, and why he was_a. member _of it___ 377 To Ashbcl Smith, October 20, 1856, a letter of friendsh 1~) tells briefly of political matters; hints at their differences in pohtics_ ___ hl 394 To Thomas Jefferson Rusk, November 8, 1866, concerning the beSt sc 00 in which to place Rusk's daughter Helen -- ---- 89 4

CALENDAR

PAGE To Mrs. Houston, December 16, 1856, concerning the death of Henderson Yoakum ___________ _ ____________________ 395 JANUARY-AUGUST, 1857 Remarks, January 12, 1857, concerning the Iowa senatorial election__ 396 A Resolution, January 14, 1857, concerning naval desertions___ 397 Speech, January 16, 1857, concerning naval desertions. ______ 398 Remarks, January 26, 1857, concerning the allowance of travelling ex- pences for Indian agents __ --------------------····--···---- 402 Remarks, January 30, 1857, on the resolution relative to naval desertions ______ __________ _________ 404 Speech, January 31, 1857, on the best method of controlling Indians___ 410 .Speech, February 3, 1857, concerning desertions in the navy____ 418 Remarks, February 10, 1857, recommending relief for the heirs of Colonel John Hardin_________ __________ _ __ 424 Remarks, February 11, 1857, concerning the counting of the presidential votes ········-··-- --------····---------__________ 425 To Ashbel Smith, February 11, 1857, enclosing a letter.·-······-·····-···-- 428 Speech, February 17, 1857, concerning increased pay for army officers_ 428 To Mrs. Houston, March 1, 1857, a family letter of affection_____ 434 Speech, March 2, 1857, arguing against the United States' accepting the "Hermitage," home of Andrew Jackson, as a donation___________ 435 Remarks, March 3, 1857, in favor of the bill for an appropriation for the distribution of seeds ___ _________________ 440 Remarks, March 3, 1857, on the bill for the enlarging and beautifying of the grounds of the Capitol ___ _ ___________ 441 To Arthur G. Coffin, March 5, 1857, sending his autograph__________ 443 To Thomas J. Rusk, April 23, 1857, asking for Rusk's influence in be- half of Sam Hay ------------·-·------·--- -----··---443 To Thomas J . .Rusk, May 12, 1857, announcing his candidacy for governor ----------··----------------·-------------444 Itinerary of Campaign Speeches in 1857 ---------·--····-----·-·--·--· 444 To Thomas J. Rusk, May 28, 1857, asking to see Rusk before his speech at Nacogdoches, May 30 ______ ____ ···----·-·····---445 To Ashbel Smith, May 30, 1857, introducing Bryan M. Morel, of Savannah, Georgia -------··········--···--···-------------------·------ 446 To Ashbel Smith, July 6, 1867, explaining his candidacy for the gov- ernorship ------····-·····---·---··-·---------------------·---·---·---·-·-·-·--446 To A. P. Wiley, July 6, 1857, refusing a joint discussion of campaign issues ___________ ----·----------------- 447 To Ashbel Smith, August 22, 1867, saying that altho defeated, the sun was still shining for him; asks for a visit from Smith_.._____ 447 To Hamilton Stuart, August 25, 1857; denying and explaining charges made by his enemies to discredit his conduct of the San Jacinto campaign ----- --------·-·······--·-······---··-······--··-·····---·--448 A Report, October, 1867, to the State Baptist Convention at Huntsville.... 462 To John M. Swisher, November 11, 1867, relative to the claims of Mrs. Bond, formerly Mrs. Hinton, for salary owed to her husband_______ 462

CALENDAR

PAGB Resolution and remarks, January 19, 1858, relative to the death of Thomas J. Rusk _________ ------- 463 Speech, February 1, 1858, against increase in the regular army___ 466 To Mrs. Houston, February 10, 1858, a family letter, discussing clothes for her and the children _______________ 486 Speech, February 10, 1858, against the increase of the regular army_ 487 Speech, February 11, 1858, against the increase of the regular army___ 493 Remarks, February 16, 1858, concerning his resolution proposing a protectorate over Mexico and certain Latin-American states___ 508 Remarks, February 17, 1858, opposing the alteration of the rules for promotion in the regular army ______________ 512 Remarks, February 19, 1858, making a personal explanation concerning criticism of his Watrous Case address____________ 516 Speech, February 25, 1868, opposing increase of the regular army ___ 617

THE WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON

1828-1832

To MRS. NATHAN MoRSEl Gen 1 Houston has the honor to present to Mrs Colonel Morse his most respectful salutations and assure her of the pleasure he derives from having it in his power, to comply with the request by which she was so kind as to distinguish him! From the veteran Warrior's brow the enclosed lock was taken, and regarded by him as a high compliment, from a lady, possess- ing so many charms, and so much excellence as Mrs. Morse! Gen 1 Houston begs leave to assure Mrs Morse of his most affec- tionate recollection, and to add his fervent prayers for her happiness. Nashville 30th Jany 1828 [Enclosure]: A lock of hair wrapped and marked: Gen. Andrew Jackson' [s] hair Sent to Mrs. Nathan Morse by Gen. Houston, 1828. [Addressed] : Mrs. Colonel Morse Rampart Street New Orleans Mr. Gasquett 1 0riginal in San Jacinto Museum of History, Houston, Texas. Copied by the courtesy of Mr. Ike Moore.

1832-1853

To JOHN H. HousToN 1

Fort Towson, 2nd Deer 1832 My dear Jack, I have been for weeks past in the Indian Country, and, of course, no writing, but now, as I am about to enter the Texas, I will just give you a touch. My health and spirits are both good, my habits sober, and my heart straight. It is reported that my friends have announced my name as a candidate for next Governor of Tennessee. Shou'd I live, I must be back by the first of April, or last of March and see how the land

WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

lies for such business. My .friends are sanguine of my success. I do not doubt it, if I should run! as I think I shall. My business to Texas is of some importance to my pecuniary interest, and as such, I must attend to it! Eaton, I see, was not elected in Tennessee to the Senate. I regret that matters took the turn they did, but it is over now. I am almost crazy to hear of Old Hickory's success. As I can't doubt it, I pray you to offer him my hearty congratulations, and wish him honor & happiness.-The latter is rarely found in office, and scoundrels try to rob greatness itself of the former. Now Houston upon the first and very first opportunity (and make one if necessary) present my grateful and most affectionate compliments to Mr. Leckey, and to his charming and lovely niece Miss Bell, and say for me, that their kind civilities have left upon my heart impressions which I will never cease to cherish, as the choicest treasures of existence, and then Sir you substitute your own excellent manner, and say what else you please. Ask Miss Bell to play upon her Harmonicon "Auld Jang sine" for me! Its notes would even reach me in the Indian's wigwam, and reclaim me to the civilized world again. Now for Cousin, dear woman, and my dear little daughter Mary, Tom, & all. Oh Houston! If I could but behold these dear objects again, I should be happy! And all this, I may yet do!- but-if not, my benison rests upon you Give my compliments to Wm B. Lewis, and to all old friends who regard me kindly. Give my warmest love to Cousin, Kiss my Daughter, and the weans. Send my love to Doct. Nancrede, Madam & family-Tell the madam to kiss Sam for me!. Thy cousin Sam Houston Mr. Jno H. Houston [Addressed]: To Mr. John H. ·Houston, Washington City, D. C. [Endorsed] : 2nd Dec. 1832 Gov S. Houston Fort Towson Ar. Terry. [Postmark written by hand]: Fort Towson A. T. · December 3, 1832. 1original in the possession of Mr. W. A. Philpott, Dallas, Texas.

To SAMUEL Sw ARTWOUT 1

(Confidential) Columbia, Texas 22nd Mar 1837 . My dear Swartwout. Your favor of the 23d of Feby reached me yesterday, and to day Captain Brown reported in good health.

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

Nothing definite has taken place with him as to his absence. It will be looked into, and decided upon. I thank you for the very kind earnest which you send of your generous recollection of me. The articles are yet on board at Galveston and will meet me at Houston, as they call the new City. In a few days the Govern- ment will remove to that place, and be stationary for some five years. We see that "Uncle Sam" has recognized our Independ- ence. This is pretty well, and if we are annexed next session, "I will die appie." You must start the town in public meetings, and let it bear on the next elections for Congress. As to the subject of "Aliens" if I were you I would not regard it at all! Matters about aliens. I told General Mason who has time on hand to write to you on the subject. You will see that no Bill passed in their favor, nor have their rights in my estimation been preju- diced by either the Convention, nor otherwise. You may suppose, because my name appears on the Constitution, that I signed it, and of course approve it. I was on the Colorado with the army when the Convention adjourned, and I had never seen the Con- stitution, nor did I ever authorize any one to sign my name to it. I never would have signed it had I have been present. The members had no power, no direct, or vested right, nor had they any power, or faculty, to establish any retroactive matter; nor to do anything which could impair the validity of acts done by the Legislature of Coahuila & Texas; not contrary to the consti- tution, and laws of the Republic. To decide upon the justice of your claims as to land &c., it clearly belongs to the Judiciary of the country, and to no other power on earth. If Congress were to pass a law saying that no aliens should hold land in Texas, I would at once say that such a law could only affect those who might hereafter acquire land and none others. There is no reason in a contrary belief. I render you ten thousand thanks for the efficient aid which you have rendered our Vessels in New York, and feel assured that to you alone, we are endebted for their release and use. We will get on, I hope, by and bye, and then we can render the things to Cresar that are due to Cresar. At the next Congress I hope that something will be done creditable to our Government. Look out! I am pressed greatly for time, and I hope you will present me to friend Price, and all our friends. I thank Price most kindly, and will write to him at the first moment of leisure which I can command. I hope that you will present my very respectful salutations to Madam and Miss Swartwout, and my dear fellow, if I live to

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

get time to see myself a p1·ivate Gentleman, I will visit you and my other friends in the U[nited] States. I will then return and for the balance ofmy fife, I will live in retirement and peace.- Raise horses, cows, hogs, chickens, &c., &c., and corn to feed them all. Then, you can come to see me and pass with me a few months in rest and quiet! In the meantime, dont fail to write on all occasions, and when I can, I will do so. We are bad off for the current news of the U[nited] States. Texas at this time is busy in preparation for fine crops, and I trust that we will not soon be disturbed by any enemy. Ever yours, dear Sam, Sam Houston Colonel S. Swartwout. [P. S.] A thousand thanks for th~ Ring. I will kiss it and wear it as long as I am "a young man." 10riginal in the New York Public Library, New York City; a photostat copy is in The University of Texas Library. Thanks to Mr. Victor H. Paltsits.

To M. P. NoRTON 1

Grand Cane, 14th July, 1844.

Col. M. P. Norton, Sir, After thirty days suffering, I am able to sit up for a short time, say one hour at a time, & to eat a little. My suffering has been great and protracted. I am recovering slowly since the arrival of Dr. Stell-& I hope to be able to reach Houston, by Saturday or Sunday, the 20th, or 21st Inst. I have sent to Houston for news, among other things; will you please send me, by the bearer, Mr. Holdermann, any dispatches, or other news of importance of which you may have a knowledge, & oblige Your friend Sam Houston [Endorsed]: To Col. M. P. Norton, P.M. for Mr. Holdermann. 1we are indebted to Judge Hobart Huson for this copy of an original letter in his possession. · ' Milford. Phillips Norton, postmaster, editor, District Judge during the lat- ter years of the Republic of Texas, was born in Readfield, Maine, in 1794. When still a very young man he served in both houses of the Maine Legisla- ture, and from 1830-1831 was the Land Agent of Maine. He was also

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

named by the Maine Governor as one of three commissioners to determine and run the northeast boundary of the State. In 1823 he had married Sarah Ann Gilman, but she died in 1829, leaving him with two young sons. In 1832 he married Mary Stevens Russell, daughter of General Edward Rus- sell who had come to Texas with the Edwards colonists and had bought large acreage of land. In 1839, General Russell sent his son-in-law to Texas to look after this land in order to make his titles clear. Colonel Norton was so well pleased with Texas from all points of view, that he determined to make it his home provided his wife would consent to remove with him to the newly settled land. They settled in Montgomery County at Bayou City, and there Norton practiced his profession-law-for one year. He then removed to Houston, at which place he practiced law, was postmaster of the town, and later was appointed District Judge of that district. He died in 1860. Davis and Grobe, New Encyclopedia of Texas, IV, 2312-2315, gives a fairly good sketch of Norton's career; his grandson, Charles G. Norton, has writ- ten a sketch of some thirty typed pages, entitled Milford Phillips Norton, Pioneer of Bayou City. The Texas State Library has a copy of this sketch. Also see The Writings, IV, 305. A REVIEW OF THE SAN JACINTO CAMPAIGN : A SPEECH AT HOUSTON IN THE SUMMER OF 1845 1 We have assembled today to take a reckoning of the present, review the past, and consult and exchange views as to what is best for the future. The greater portion of this audience knows that since 1832, the period that I became a citizen of Texas, that I have assumed the responsibility of many important official posi- tions, conferred by a generous and confiding people. How I have discharged the various important and responsible trusts thus con- ferred, it is the duty as well as the right of the people to judge. That my official policy and actions, military and civil, from and during the period that has passed between 1835 to the present, as commander-in-chief of your army, and as President, should have met with a just and fair opposition, is but natural. Men were born to differ as to the policy that should be pursued to accomplish an important object; especially is this the case when the object to be attained is of a public nature. But when that opposition consists of misrep1·esentations, abuse, and slander, of a violent and personal character, it must be ascribed to motives not patriotic. At the very commencement of my military career I became associated with men of extraordinary patriotism, brav- ery, and intelligence. I refer to Colonels Fannin, Milam, Travis, Johnson, Bowie, and others; some of whom I have considered it my duty to differ with as to important public measures. If I should say anything that might be considered disparaging in

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

the least to the reputation and memory of these gallant men, I beg of the audience to believe me, when I say, I do it only as a means of attempting a vindication of my own character and reputation, against the cruel and unrelenting misrepresentations and slanders published to the world during the last ten years by a violent and unscrupulous press. It has been alleged with great vindictiveness and vehemence, that I am responsible for the massacre of Travis and his men at the Alamo, and of Fannin and his men at Goliad. That I, as commander-in-chief of the army, actuated by feelings of personal revenge, refused to reinforce Fannin and Travis, when I had the power so to do-accusations as cruel and malicious as they are false. I never had aught but tears to shed over the sad and tragic fate of those brave men and their companions. I am proud of the brilliant and enduring page of history that they, with their blood, have writ. When the consultation convention appointed me Commander- in-Chief of the Army, I felt it to be my duty to accept the great and responsible position. It is a well known fact to most of you, that I did not take command of the soldiers in the field move- ments in person during the existence of the Government organ- ized by the consultation convention. I was desirous not to do any act calculated to wound the pride and aspirations of those gallant men who had displayed such heroic bravery in previous victories and successful contests.- It is with painful emotion that I am compelled to allude to the subject that public policy has heretofore deterred me from mentioning. Soon after I was appointed to the command of your military forces Colonel F. W. Johnson presented for my inspection a reso- lution passed by the Council empowering him and Colonel J. W. Fannin to raise and control, in the capacity of agents for the Government, an army to attack and capture Matamoras, and empowering a certain Dr. Grant to act as commander-in-chief. At the first sight of the order I saw that it was an attempt to supersede me in the command of the army, and that the motive that inspired the campaign was spoils for private gain. The insult and mortification intended for me I pocketed for the good of my country. But I opposed the intended campaign with all my power, because I believed that an attempt to capture so large a city by so few men would result in a military disaster and the destruction of the participants.

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

I very soon discovered that I was a General without an army, serving under and by authority of a pretended government, that had no head, and no loyal subjects to obey its commands. I saw then that the blood of more martyrs had to crimson the sacred soil of Texas before the people would consent to organize them- selves into a government having one head and yielding to that head implicit obedience. I therefore considered myself virtually superseded in the com- mand of the army by an illegal act of the Council, at the solicita- tion of my inferior officers. I had, at that early period, reliable information that Santa Anna was raising a large and enthusiastic army for the avowed purpose to invade Texas, avenge and wipe out the humiliation and disgrace cast upon Mexico by the defeat and expulsion of her military forces from Texas. I thought at that time that the war would be a long and bloody one. I there- fore deemed it prudent and wise for the army to be well organized and to retreat to some advantageous point. To that policy I had no support. I ordered Colonel Travis to blow up the fortress at San Antonio and retreat, and, as I considered my usefulness in the army was at an end for the then present, I asked for and obtained a parole, and directed my attention and what influence I possessed to the securement of a convention of the people for the purpose of adopting a declaration of independence and organizing a per- manent government. You are all familiar with the action of that convention. The delegates thought proper to re-elect me ·Com- mander-in-Chief of the army. Santa Anna's advance with from eight to ten thousand soldiers was so rapid that the intended Matamoras expedition was aban- doned. It has been asserted, as I have before stated, that I am responsible for the massacre of Fannin and his command. I have even been called a cowardly murderer by the leading news- papers of the country, and repeated time and time again for years. I beg the attention of this audience while I cite you to facts and circumstances that prove this foul and cruel slander to be a pre- meditated falsehood. On the 2d day of March, 1836, I took my seat in the convention. I was absent from the army on parole for reasons that I have before stated. I did not have a soldier under my control. All the organized military force was under the command of Colonels Travis, Fannin, and Johnson, consisting of about 750 men. There were some unorganized military gath- erings in different portions of the country that were not in the regular service. On the 3d day of March Colonel Travis sent a

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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

despatch to the President of the convention stating that he and his command were entrenched within the fortress of the Alamo, and besieged by a large force commanded by Santa Anna, and requesting the convention to send reinforcements to relieve him from his perilous situation. He did not direct his despatch to the General of the army, because he did not consider that there was any such officer that ranked him. He also sent despatches to Colonel ·Fannin imploring aid, because he was well aware that Colonel Fannin was the only officer in the command of troops. On the 4th of March/ one day after my reappointment, and two days previous to the fall of the Alamo, at the request of members of the convention, I proceeded with all possible haste to Gonzales to collect all the armed forces that could be found with the inten- tion of marching to San Antonio and reinforcing Colonel Travis. I arrived at Gonzales on the 6th 2 and gathered some three hundred and fifty men fit for service, many of them without arms or ammu- nition. In the course of two days I received the lamentable information that Colonel Travis and his noble compatriots had succumbed to overwhelming numbers and had been brutally slaughtered. I immediately sent a courier to Colonel Fannin ordering him to destroy all his artillery that he could not remove and retreat to Victoria, and informed him of the fall of the Alamo. Deaf Smith having returned from a scout reported the enemy advancing. I then determined to retreat and get as near to Andrew Jackson and the old flag as I could. 8 [Long and vocifer- ous cheering.] Had Colonel Fannin obeyed my order promptly his forces and those under my command would have joined several days before his capture and inhuman massacre. These facts so painful to me to detail to you, I defy any high- minded person to come before me and an intelligent audience and deny. Travis, Fannin, Crockett, Bowie, were all brave and gallant spirits; they never, while living employed falsehood and slander to carry a point or injure a character; their acts were open and bold; their policy of warfare was to divide, advance and conquer. My policy was to concentrate, retreat and conquer, and at this very moment could the veil be drawn that divides the earth from heaven, I cannot but imagine that these brave and manly heroes, bending from their exalted position, would look down upon my insignificant and wicked slanderers with withering scorn and contempt.

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

A vast amount of abuse is indulged in and errors alleged against me for ordering the retreat of the army from the Colorado,-·by persons inspired by passions of malice and hate only; yet in order to deceive the people, they assumed the role of public benefactors. Cowardice and want of military capacity is the basis of the ven- omous criticism. It is gravely asserted by my enemies, that if the policy of cer- tain military chieftains had prevailed the Texans would have crossed the river, annihilated the enemy and saved the people of the west from the ravages of war. If we are disposed to specu- late in ifs, we may as well discuss the other hypothetical if. If the Texas army had countermarched, crossed the river and attacked the enemy, and been defeated, what then? Let the wails of the fallen at the Alamo and Goliad answer. Such speculations, seriously engaged in, are as unprofitable and vain as they are V1c10us. It is virtually an attempt to reverse the decrees of Divine Providence. The past is at least, secure and unalterable. The only legitimate question that admits of serious discussion is, whether or not the retreat was in accordance with wise and prudent military strategy. When I reached the Colorado on my retreat from Gonzales, I expected to have been reinforced by Colonel Fannin's command,. . and intended at that point to have resisted the advance of the enemy; but my plans were thwarted by the failure of Colonel Fannin to reach me. You are all familiar with the cause. I had reliable information from my scouts that Santa Anna was advanc- ing with his army in detached columns. His force was estimated at seve:ri thousand five hundred men well supplied with means of transportation. The nature of the country west of the Colorado was such that he was able to mass his forces with rapidity. The force with which I had to meet the enemy consisted of six hundred and fifty men without artillery or means of transportation. I admit that many of my officers and privates did desire to cross the river at Beason's and attack the enemy, but no two could agree exactly as to how it should be done. After learning the views and plans of my officers and privates, I concluded to retreat in the direction of my reinforcements and supplies, with a hope of enticing the enemy to advance in detached columns; and when he was in a position, surrounded with difficult water courses to cross-at a proper time, strike him an effectual and decisive blow. When I look back upon the battle of San Jacinto and its sequence,

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

I consider it almost a miracle, and I am disposed 'to render due praise to God, the valor and bravery of the victorious Texans, and let it remain a fixed and unalterable fact forever. [Applause, long and continued.] I am charged with the heinous offense of preserving the life of Santa Anna, when, as my enemies claim, justice and public policy demanded his execution. I should be inclined to forgive my assailants for some unworthy motive. They allege that the motive that prompted the act was prejudice and illwill to Fannin and Travis when living. Nevertheless, I am thankful they give me credit for the deed. If there was ever a period in my life when every pulsation of my heart beat true time to calm and serious obedience to duty, in promoting the interests of my country and the welfare of future generations, it was at the moment that I conceived the idea that led to the treaty with Santa Anna on the field of San Jacinto. It was on the night of the 21st and the early morn of the 22d when I was confined to my cot in camp, suffering from my wound. My mind was directed to the subject of how to secure the greatest good to Texas from the victory. Santa Anna and his command were overpowered and vanquished, it was true, but a large mili- tary force of the enemy, consisting of 5,000 troops, were advanc- ing in battle array, within forty-eight hours march of my camp. Nor was Texas a free Republic. I was not unmindful of the failure of the Republicans of 1812, led by the brave Magee, Kemper, and Perry. Their victories on the field of conflict were as complete and decisive as was the one at San Jacinto in 1836; but the lack of diplomatic skill and the inhuman slaughter of the Mexican prisoners ruined their cause. My motive in sparing the life of Santa Anna was to relieve the country of all hostile enemies without further bloodshed, and secure his acknowledgment of our independence, which I consid- ered of vastly more importance to the welfare of Texas than the mere gratification of revenge. The clemency extended to Santa Anna and other prisoners was of great moral power in securing our recognition by powerful christian nations. It is unprofitable to indulge in speculation of what might have been the consequences if Santa Anna and other Mexican prisoners had been summarily executed and the Texas army left to expel the foe from the country in bloody warfare. There would have been at least many valuable lives sacrificed. But of one thing we are certain, that the treatment of the Mexican

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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

prisoners has received the approbation of civilized people and nations throughout the civilized world, and I rejoice that it is not within the province of human power to reverse the act. [Pro- longed cheering.] It pains me, fellow-citizens, to weary your patience in listening to matters personal to myself, but I feel it to be my duty to notice one other unfriendly stricture upon my public acts. It is alleged, as many of you well know, that I was unfaithful to the interests of Texas and Southern institutions when I directed our minister at Washington to withdraw the proposition to the Federal Union and courted the assistance and good will of England and France. I have even been called an abolitionist by some of our scribbling newspaper editors. Will my fellow citizens forgive me for lowering myself suf- ficiently to notice these creatures? ["Yes, yes, go on," from the audience.] This fellow Richardson of the News; I don't know him, and should not if I should meet him on the street. He hails, I am informed, from South Carolina, and professes to be the cham- pion of extreme Southern rights. But, I am informed, also, (and I believe it to be true) that he is late from the classic land of wooden nutmegs, warming pans, blue laws, witchcraft, and the hot bed of abolitionism. He won't steal! He is too mean! That is fortunate; for the inmates of the penitentiary are not likely to be disgraced and corrupted by being his associate. [Laughter and applause.] The lying scribbler of the Telegraph, [Dr. Francis Moore,] is a one armed man. You never would forgive me for abusing a crip- ple, but I must confess that one arm can write more malicious falsehoods than any man with two arms I ever saw. His one arm is more prolific for evil than the traditional bag that had seven cats and every cat had seven kits. The idea that such men should accuse me of being disloyal to the interests of the South; how absurd! how illogical! I who first saw light of day in Old Vir- ginia, educated in Tennessee at the feet of Andrew Jackson, and was taught in my infancy to love the South and all her institu- tions, social, religious, and political. The love of the South is part of my very being. It grew in me with my growth from childhood to manhood. These men, however, in retailing their slanders, are compelled to tell some truths. I did direct our minister at Washington to withdraw the application of Texas for annexation and commence

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

paying court to England and France, for reasons that public policy has heretofore forbid an explanation. Nations, as well as individuals, are governed and influenced, to a great extent, by feelings of jealously and self-interest. The proposition that was made at the early period of our existence as an independent nation, to become one of the Confederate States of the American Union, did not receive a respectful consideration by the executive, or the legislative branch of the government of the United States after President Jackson's term of office expired, till the late inauguration of President Polk. In some of the Southern States, even where I expected the desired measure would received a unanimous and warm support, to my great surprise, it met with a decided and insulting rebuff. Governor McDuffie, of South Carolina, sent a message to the Legislature of that State disapproving annexation, clothed in insulting lan- guage to Texans. Self-respect, as well as interest, demanded the withdrawal of all diplomatic relations with the United States in relation to annexation. I admit that I have recommended that treaties of reciprocity be made with England, squinting even to the future extinction of slavery in Texas. When at the same time- my only object was to turn public opinion in the United States in favor of annexation. I can justify myself by the suggestion of a very natural supposition. Supposing a charming lady has two suitors. One of them she is inclined to believe would make the better husband, but is a little slow to make interesting propositions. Do you think if she was a skillful practitioner in Cupid's court she would pretend that she loved the other "feller" the best and be sure that her favorite would know it? [Laughter and applause.] If ladies are justified in making use of coquetry in securing their annexation to good and agreeable husbands, you must excuse me for making use of the same means to annex Texas to Uncle Sam. [Laughter and cheers.] I can truly rejoice with you, my fellow-citizens, that we have arrived at a period when· we are permitted to turn from the anxious and checkered past, and behold the bright and cheering future. That our annexation to the mother country is assured, there is, and can be no doubt. I consider the benefit to be derived from the measure great beyond the power of language to describe. We have an extensive public domain awaiting the magic touch of the planter to call forth its inexhaustible treasures, and when we are able to say to the civilized world that we have secured a

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

permanent and stable government beyond all possibility of fail- ure, numberless emigrants with large possessions of servants and money will flock to our shores. Large planters and men of capital have not heretofore had sufficient confidence in the stability of our government to risk large investments in Texas. Annexation removes the difficulty. As an inducement to persons to cast their fortunes in Texas, institutions of learning should be established, especially a wise and liberal system of free public schools. After providing for the payment of our public debt, our public lands should be, to a great extent, set apart to create and support free public insti- tutions of learning. The only obstruction in the way of this desired measure is our public debt, which amounts from ten to twelve millions. This debt is a virtual lien upon our public domain; a part of which was contracted to maintain our armies in the field during our revolutionary war, and must be paid if it requires every foot of our public domain to do it. Texas never can assume a proud and lofty position as one of the United States and repudiate this sacred debt of honor. To pay this debt is a small sacrifice compared with the contributions of some of the fallen in the great struggle for our freedom. In looking back over the past we discover many noble patriots that labored in the cause with mighty arms, and when it became necessary, sealed it with their precious blood in death. · And now, in conclusion, my fellow-citizens, as we are on the eve of taking a new departure, let us pledge ourselves, one and all that we will defend freedom on the sacred soil of Texas for- ever and ever. 1 Judge William Lewis, Biographical Sketch of the Life of Sam Houston, with a condensed History of Texas from Its Discovery to 1861 (Dallas Herald Printing House, 1882), pp. 63-74. The source does not give the exact date of the speech, but states that it was made in Houston in the summer of 1845. The compiler explains: "This speech was written down as it fell from the lips of the speaker by a Mr. [William F.] Weeks, who was the first .shorthand reporter in Texas. The newspapers all being opposed to Houston at this period, refused to print it. This ,niter obtained this copy from the reporter himself and preserved it, believing it was an important item in the vindication of the truth of history." The Galveston News of February 9, 12, 1883, gives some information about Lewis. 2Houston's memory for dates betrayed him. He left ,vashington on March 6 and arrived at Gonzales on March 11. SThis statement, if truly reported, is the nearest that Houston ever came to an admission that he planned to retreat to the boundary.

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WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1832-1853

To AN INVITATION COMMITTEE 1

:Marion, Ala., Sept. 2nd, 1845 Gentlemen:-Your kind and polite note of this date, just received, is gratifying to my feelings in the highest degree. Knowing you, or most of you, as I do, personally, and asso- ciated as my recollections are with you, and your immediate section of the United States, you have a right to make the request which you do, and I shall take great pleasure in addressing the people on the subjects named in your note, at any place you may select, on Saturday, 13th inst. With considerations of very great respect, Your obt. servt. Sam Houston. 1 Alabama State Review, September 17, 1845; Texas National Register, October 9, 1845. The speech that Houston promised to make has not been found in complete text. The committee sending the invitation, asked for Houston's opinion concerning the annexation of Texas to the United States. The invitation was signed by S. A. Townes, J. T. Bailey, J. H. Myatt, A. B. Moore, John P. Graham, Thomas Chilton, J. N. Walthall, J. F. Cocke, J. C. Harrell, C. A. Woodruff, James Phelan, Lauren Upson. Both papers cited as sources for Houston's letter above, give the following account of his speech: General Sam Houston addressed the People of this county, on Saturday last, upon "Annexation and our relations with Mexico." He gave a succinct narration of the leading events connected with the history of Texas, and particularly with annexation. He vindicated with warmth Texas from the charge of "Land Robbery," tracing with the finger of a master that event from its beginning to its glorious termination on the Plains of San Jacinto. The leading incidents in annexation next were presented, among which was the fact that all negotiations between the United States and Texas had taken place during his administration. This, it seems to us, should relieve General Houston from all suspicion of having been opposed to annexation. As a public speaker, General Houston would rank high anywhere. To a faultless form he adds large experience, and an inti.mate knowledge of men, a fine manly voice, and a manner which is eloquence itself. Nature intended him for distinction among his fellows. He appears to be about fifty years of age, but moves with the firm elastic tread and erect carriage of the young Indian chief. He looks to be in much better health than when he was here in 1840. We have never been classed among the admirers of General Houston, and he is personally to us a stranger-and we have here recorded simply the impression made upon our mind by his ability as a speaker, and his appearance as a man, · General Houston addresses the citizens of Greensboro today, by invitation, and accepts the compliment of a dinner which has been tendered him.

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