WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1861
305
the value of subordination and discipline. A good citizen, who has been obedient to law and civil authority, always makes a good soldier. I have ever been conservative; I remained con- serative as long as the Union lasted; I am now a conservative citizen of the Southern Confederacy, and giving to the consti- tuted authorities of the country, civil and military, and to the Government which a majority of the people have approved and acquisced in, an honest obedience, I feel that I should do less than my duty did I not press upon others the impo1-tance of regarding this the first duty of a good citizen. 1 Echoes F,-q,n the South, 174-181; Rebellion Reco1·d, I (1860-1861), 266- 267; New Yo,-k Tribune, May 31, 1861; The Texas Chi-istian Advocate (mere extracts), May 23, 1861.
To SAM HOUSTON, JR. 1 Independence, Texas, May 15th, 1861.
My dear Son, The rain continues, and when we will get off, I can't say. Your Grandma was quite ill today. She is better, I hope out of danger. It was colic. Be content, and if we do not get down soon, send to Wood & Palmer, or to Cousin Mart Royston for any supplies to furnish hands or yourself. Keep the Hoes in the corn, if it is too wet to plow. I fear the weeds in the corn. Keep them down. Have all things kept out of the field. See to the goats and stock. If it is too wet to do anything in the corn, put up a cow pen; also one for the goats-a brush pen will do for the goats. Do what you think best, and consult with Armstrong about matters. Keep the hands busy. I intend to be satisfied with whatever you may do. You must think for yourself, as I cannot be there to see, while the rain continues. Do the best you can, and be industrious. I do not wish you or the hands to be exposed. Today I swapped Cave [a horse] for Jenny Lynd with your uncle, so we will work her and Mart's horse in the ambulance down. I will not expect you to meet us on the way. I will write to you often so that you will know when to expect us. I hope that you will write to me often, and send your letters to be mailed at Galveston. I will send mine by way of Galveston to you. Jeff can assist Aunt Maria and attend to the Goats and Pigs-We all send kindest love to you. I was fearful that Cypress would be
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