WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1856
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naval board was void, because it was not in accordance with the law; and that, therefore, by repealing the law, we should place the officers retired or dropped by the board in statu quo. If in this resolution we were to use the language, "execution of the law," it might be construed to admit that the law had been executed. To avoid any such conclusion, I propose to insert the word "alleged" before "executed." It seems to be that it implies no reflection on the head of the Navy Department. I did not intend anything of the kind; nor do I see the resolution can be so understood.
1 Congressional Globe, 1855-1856, Part 1, pp. 567-568.
To MRS. HousToN 1
Washington, 5th Mar. 1856. My Dear Love, For fear that you might think that you were forgotten by me for a single day, I will not fail to write you. It is true that I have nothing interesting to write as I have been in my room today, the Senate not being in session, as it is Saturday. Tomorrow is our Communion day, at E. Street Baptist Church. If the Lord spares me, I expect to attend and partake of the Sacrament of our Lords Supper. I do not feel that I am worthy of so high a privilege. I know that I am a Sinner, and can only pray God, to enable me to live as I ought to do, to merit the forgiveness of our Saviour. We are in the world, & while we are, we may, and I do avoid all infractions of the commands of my Saviour, so far as my actions, and appetites are concerned, but I feel that I do not love God, as I ought to do, or appreciate His infinite love, and Kind- ness to us. I try to feel, as I am convinced by my Judgment, I ought to do, and yet I come short of the great mark. To use the means ap- pointed, with God's help, I will do as long as I live. Pray for me Dearest, that by grace, my spirit may be enlightened, and that I may enjoy full evidence of my regeneration of heart & spirit. For weeks, I have written to you every day, and I hope you get my letters. I fear that you will have quit writing to me though I asked you to continue even until I reached home, for
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