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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1837
84
and the public faith, so far as it is concerned, in the redemption of pledges, based on the public domain, must also suffer serious prejudices. I would recommend that some plan be devised that will ascertain all the located lands of the country; this being done, the vacant land will be readily indicated, and prevent the future conflict of titles. Unless some precaution of this character is adopted, endless litigation must be the consequence. The subject of the undefined limits on our northeastern frontier, between the United States and this republic will require the action of congress. The boundaries have been so well de- scribed by the treaty of 1819, between Spain and the United States, that little difficulty is apprehended in defining, and estab- lishing our just lines and obviating all trifling difficulties which may have at any time existed, through a want of proper con- sideration. Prpvision for the appointment of a commissioner to meet one on the part of the U. States is desirable. Connected with the subject of boundary is that of the Caddo Indians, in- habiting a portion of our north eastern frontier. By a treaty recently held with that tribe they have ceded certain lands to the United States, and have shown a disposition to amalgamate with the wild Indians within our unquestionable boundary, while late advices have assured me that the United States agent of the tribe has issued to the warriors, rifles and ammunition. The condition and disposition of these Indians as well as their thefts and murders upon our borders, have been subjects on which our ministers at Washington City, have been advised and instructed to make immediate and urgent remonstrance to that government, and I am well assured from the character of the gentlemen, that they have not been wanting to their duty in this respect. The principal aggressions upon our frontiers have either been insti- gated or perpetrated by the Caddos : It would be painful to suppose under the circumstances, that the U. S. agent in furnish- ing them the means of further injury to the exposed frontier inhabitants of our country, had acted under the orders of his government. It is due to this government to suppose that he has proceeded unadvisedly and that the stipulations of the treaty concluded between the United States and Mexico in April, 1830, 2 will be rigidly adhered to so far as they appertain to the United States and the Republic of Texas. It was among the first objects of the constitutional government, on assuming its duties, to adopt such measures as would give peace and security to our extended frontier. For this purpose commissioners were appointed at an
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