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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1837
MAY, 1837
THE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE, MAY 5, 1837 1 Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives: With peculiar pleasure I greet your return to the Capitol. At the adjournment of the last session, the country was under the apprehension of an invasion from our enemy, which created much solicitude, and had an unkind influence on our Foreign relations. It was temporary in its effects, as was manifested in the recogni- tion of our independence by the Government of the United States of America. We now occupy the proud attitude of a sovereign and independent Republic; which will impose upon us the obliga- tion of evincing to the world, that we are worthy to be _free. This will only be accomplished by wise legislation, the mainte- nance of our integrity, and the faithful and just redemption of our plighted faith wherever it has been pledged. Nothing can be better calculated to advance our interests and character than the establishment of a liberal and disinterested policy, enlight- ened by patriotism, and guided by wisdom. The plan of legislating for present emergencies, without refer- ence to a general and permanent system, will render a government less stable in its institutions and less prosperous in its progress, than it must where a proper foundation is laid, and a corre- sponding fabric is erected on its basis. Diversified interests ·must exist in every community, and that system which is best calculated to promote the general interest, is the one which should be adopted and adhered to with fidelity. The representa- tives of the Sovereign people by a calm and deliberate discussion of the various interests of the different sections of our country will be enabled to arrive at such conclusions as will induce them to adopt a course, which must be in its effects, both salutary and pleasing to every true patriot. The views which must actuate every friend of the country will be the advancement of its glory and the happiness of its citizens. The present prospects of crops in our country is a subject of sincere gratulation, and while it reflects lustre on the industry and enterprise of our citizens, it should inspire us with venera- tion and gratitude to a Divine Providence for this manifestation of his continued favor. Among the various subjects of deep and vital interest to the country, is that of our finances. The demands on our Treasury
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