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WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1858
509
the nation very useful information. It was not with a view of eliciting opposition that the resolution was introduced, nor did I expect any. I supposed the committee the most competent to attain the object for which it was intended. I am sorry that the Gentleman from Massachusetts has sup- posed that it was my object or that this resolution could have a tendency to foster the filibustering spirit that is abroad in the land. The very opposite was my belief and intention. I have always denounced filibusterism, when upon individual enterprise such schemes were conducted; and I shall never cease to do it. But, sir, we are aware that these people, for a quarter of a century, I think, or near that time, have been making experiments to establish a Government similar to our own. They have in- variably failed. It has brought wretchedness on the community. If they had great grievances to endure under the despotism of Spain, they are certainly more intolerant now than they were then. Every description of crime runs riot there; they have no stable government; there is no foundation, on which to build up human happiness on rational institutions, yet laid, after all the experiments that have been made; and it does seem to me that it is due to the enlightenment of the present day that this subject should claim the attention of the civilized world. This resolution is not offered with a view to extending our dominion, but with a view of improving our neighborhood. These · people are contiguous to us; our commerce has connection with them; and our political relations necessarily have been and will be further extended to them. Their defenseless situation is well calculated to invite aggression from other nations, or from indi- viduals who, either from vicious enterprising considerations, or personal ambitions, see proper to invade them. They are not in a condition to defend themselves. The want of organization, the want of regulated government, the want of power, the existence of distraction amongst them, are all calculated to invite aggres- sion; so that it is due to humanity that the situation of these people should be considered by the great community of nations. I cannot conceive that the course suggested in the resolution will be at all detrimental to their future peace or well-being. I do not urge it as a necessary measure, but I throw it out as a subject of consideration for the age and for the world. If this nation throws its eye over those countries, I cannot conceive that that will induce individuals to invade them. When it is seen that this nation has its eye on those people, that it
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