WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1842
464
interpose in behalf of Texas ; and unless some obstacle should intervene we may, at no very distant period, anticipate the most favorable result from the mediation of that power in our favor. Should the present measure, however, be adopted, and a proposi- tion be submitted to the Mexican government, we cannot expect that this extraordinary assumption of right by Texas would be overlooked by Mexico in the negotiation, but would present an insuperable barrier not only to our recognition, but would anni- hilate every hope of an amicable adjustment of our differences. The British Minister would not be authorized to enter into any arrangement, but such as would present Texas with the limits avowed at the time of her recognition and declared by the law, approved on the 19th of December, 1836. The promulgation of this bill, if it were to become a law would suspend all action on the part of Great Britain. To assume a right which we cannot exercise, would only work evil and could produce no salutary result. It would be useless in itself. Indeed, a proposition of this character is calculated to irritate and arouse the indignation of every man ·within the limits of Mexico. And whilst we would thus pursue phantoms, and profit less as the pursuit is dangerous, our character for policy, sagacity and fore- cast would suffer serious detriment. I need not assure your Honorable Body of the ardent desire which I entertain for peace and friendly intercourse with all nations. So long as we are not on amicable terms with Mexico, so long will we suffer hindrance to our prosperity. The con- stant cry of invasion will be sounded, not only throughout Texas, but throughout all nations to whom we are known; and while this is the case, we may feel confident that emigration will be im- peded, if not entirely prevented. From this source we are to draw • both population and wealth; and no matter how desirable our soil and climate might be to foreigners, nor how great their anxiety to make our country their home, it could certainly be no additional inducement to families, that Texas should remain in hostile relations with Mexico; which might and would at all times render their situation one of unpleasant excitement, if not of danger. We may regard Mexicans as we may think proper ; but still they are men and entertain ideas of nationality and some sense of shame and injury. If then they do, the present project must have a powerful influence upon them. Indignity always inspires feel- ings of revenge. The very thought of suffering a partition of
Powered by FlippingBook