482
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1842
tive, gave to him the means of rendering every necessary pro- tection to this section of the country. No such means have been placed at my disposal; and when Congress adjourns, I have every reason to believe that the available force remaining at Austin will not be such as to guaranty the undoubted safety of the archives and other public property. The loss of the archives would be an irreparable injury to the country. Therefore, to the representatives of the people, I submit the question as to the measures proper to be adopted for the protec- tion and scurity of an object so important to the whole nation. The enemy must be apprised of the true situation of affairs at Austin; and can it be reasonably supposed that they will not endeavor to take advantage of our condition? Sam Houston. 1 "Messages of the Presidents," Congressional Papers; also, Executive Record Book, No. 40, pp. 43-44, Texas State Library.
To WILLIAM HENRY DAINGERFIELD 1 Executive Office, Austin, February 6th, 1842
To Col. Daingerfield, Sir, Your note of this morning has just been laid before me. For the sentiments of personal regard which it expresses, accept my cordial acknowledgments. In the estimate of the high, im- portant and responsible duties devolving upon you in the situation to which you have been called, I yield my hearty concurrence. That you will discharge them all with honor to yourself, and service to the country, I do not entertain a doubt. In relation to your inquiries concerning the procurement of the engraved or lithographed Exchequer bills, authorized to be issured by a law of the Congress just ended, I have to state that you will please proceed, at your earliest convenience, to New Orleans and superintend their execution according to such de- vices as you may yourself select and deem most appropriate. Your wishes for leave of absence, are cheerfully acceded to, with the expression of a hope that you may not be absent longer than five or six weeks. The business of the .Treasury Depart- ment requires, no doubt, some attention; particularly so, as we
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