The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume VI

239

WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1856

for my reputation. For months past the newspapers inimical to me have been twitting me on the subject of a correspondence with the Presidency. Of late the allusions to it have increased in number. In writing my letter I was actuated by the kindest feelings of personal regard for Mr. Pierce, a desire for the success of his administration, and an anxious wish for the prosperity of my country. I have the control of my own correspondence, and therefore send you a copy of my letter. 2 If you think it neces- sary and fit, you are at full liberty to give it publicity as you may think proper. If its publication incurs any responsibility, or should reflect discredit upon me, I would rather it should pass for what it is worth than to have repeated insinuations against my character. My motives require no vindication. I will not send a copy of Mr. Pierce's reply, because it was doubtless written hastily, and without any more expectation than I had, of ever seeing it published. It is, nevertheless, but just to Mr. Pierce to say, that he was pleased to characterize mine as a kind and noble letter, and respond heartily to every sentiment and opinion expressed by me. Thine Truly Sam Houston [Addressed] : A. H. Mickle, Esq., New York 1 The Washington A1ne1-ican, March 19, 1856. This issue of The Washing- ton American also carried Mickie's letter to Houston, February !), 1866, to which Houston's letter is the reply. 2 See Houston to General Franklin Pierce, January 28, 1853, Volume V, 370-373.

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To MRs. E. E. Ew1NG 1

Washington, 17th Feby 1856. Dear Mrs. Ewing. I wrote to you a short time since saying Gustus was promised a place in the Navy. This had been told him by the Secretary, if the Delegation from Texas would recom- mend him. We all did so, and when he took it to the Sec'ty he told Gustus that Col. Bell had recommended another boy for the place. It is the members of the District, which by law claims the right to say who shall be appointed to his district, & the senators can do nothing. If he could get the place, I have no idea that he could pass such an examination as is required of a boy going to the Naval School.