WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1861
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too high for you, and was uneasy about your safety. Affection- ately Thy Father Sam Houston. Andrew is splurging as usual. Give how do to all. H. 1 0riginal is in Mrs. Marg·aret John's collection. By her courtesy this copy was made.
To SAM HOUSTON, JR. 1 Independence, Texas, 22nd May, 1861.
My Dear Son, On yesterday I wrote to you, and hoped that today would be fair, and the road so that we would get off to- morrow, but today is quite cloudy, and looks as like rain as need be. If it rains today, I may go to Huntsville on business. I am weary and distressed to be thus detained. Though all is kindness, I ·do not like to eat our friends out of House and home at one visit. Moreover, a sense of duty calls me to the Point, though I feel assured that you will do the best that you can! We have no news of interest, in the Sensation Extras. They lie to suit the market. Do you, my son, not let anything disturb you; attend to business, and when it is proper, you shall go to war, if you really wish to do so. It is every man's duty to defend his Coun- try; and I wish my offspring to do so at the proper time and in the proper way. We are not wanted or needed out of Texas, and we may soon be wanted and needed in Texas. Until then, my son, be content. On yesterday while I was writing, I did not know it, but your Dear Ma was quite ill. All night she was very ill, and today she is far from being well. She is very anxious, as we all are, to get to the Point. So soon as we can get there, you and Mart and Jeff will have to come up for stock, if the roads are so that you can drive sheep. The flock looks quite formidable, and the ewes are still lambing. Andrew told me last night that two "were born" the day before. Andrew is quite busy, and feels much responsibility rests in his hands. He wishes to return with you -from the Point & assist you down with the stock, but I am in hopes that the Goats will engross his attention when he gets home! The family are all well, but your Dear Ma. We all join in love to you, and kind regards to Armstrong & family. Tell all the
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