WRITINGS OF 5AI"1 HOUSTON, 184-2
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any prospect of success. But for various reasons this was not done. No organization, although attempted, could be accomplished. Difficulties arose among themselves as to wtio should lead them; and in the end, they found themselves on examination, totally unprepared for the campaign- inasmuch as they had left their homes upon a momentary summons and were destitute of the means for sufficient and protracted service. The result was, they returned to their homes and the orders of the government were not executed. Before the excitement incident to this incursion had subsided in the community, the pompous declaration of the self-created potentate of Mexico had reached our shores, denouncing the subjugation of Texas, and lavishing upon its government and people unmeasured abuse. Disregarding all the pledges which he had voluntarily made of friendly disposition towards the recog- nition and establishment of ours rights, he evinced upon his assumption of po,ver, the most malignant hostility towards our country and holds out the idea of immediate invasion and "moles- tation." It is not for us to act upon the supposition that this declaration, deliberately made by him, while in supreme authority, was in- tended merely to give him a temporary popularity at home and to furnish a pretext for levying contributions and maintaining a large standing army for the purpose of establishing himself per- manently in the possession of usurped power and securing the means of oppressing his countrymen, or that it was designed only to embarrass our intercourse and relations with other countries, and, if possible, in that way retard the prosperity of Texas. But we are to regard, with peculiar vigilance and attention, our internal safety and well-being, as well as our foreign relations, and secure ourselves in season against every contingency which might arise from his threats. Our past and present position to- wards Mexico are matters which cannot be viewed with indiffer- ence or contemplated with apathy. If it be within the power of the nation, it is indispensable that protection be given to the frontiers. Our citizens have been and are still liable to continual annoyance from the enemy. No fo1·miclable invasion, it is true, has been attempted since 1836- nor do I believe they will be ever able to effect its accomplish- ment. But though this is my firm conviction, I am, nevertheless, equally satisfied that they will interpose every impediment to the peace, prosperity and settlement of our frontier. I esteem it
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