The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume III

WRITINGS OF SAl\I HOUSTON, 18,12

111

Having thus laid before your Honorable Body the main points of a system which I have the strongest confidence would prove entirely practicable and secure to the nation the great blessings of a good currency, I cannot refrain in conclusion from invoking for them your early and earnest consideration. The condition of the country must be apparent to all. It would be unavailing to recite the causes which have produced it. It is sufficient to know that the country is in imminent peril,. and that something must be done to resuscitate a sinking currency upon which so much- upon which, indeed, our all depends. The navy cannot go to sea- the offices of the government cannot be supported- the government must inevitably cease its functions, unless something is done- and done quickly. Wreck and ruin are fearfully conspicuous on every hand. The period in which we could rely upon credit unsupported and the ink and paper of our statute books, has passed away. We must now turn to some- thing tangible and substantial. It is in the power, and it is the province of the Congress to provide relief. Will they do so? I have performed my duty; and I now commit the fate of Texas to the patriotic wisdom of her assembled counsellors! May God direct them in the choice of the proper course, and avert from our unhappy country heavy and impending evil. Sam Houston ·

1 "1\1:essages of the Presidents," Cono1·essional Pa.pers; also Executive Rec- ord Book, No. 40, pp. 123-124, Texas State Library.

To ANSON J ONEs 1

City of Houston, Texas, July 19th, 1842.

To Dr. Anson Jones: Dear Sir,- I have been much embarrassed in consequence of your absence during the session of Congress now near its ad- journment. Many subjects with which you have had connection have been brought upon the tapis, and your presence would have relieved me from reflections Which have been ventured against me. At one time I have heard that you were ill, at another that you were not. Is it in your power to make me a visit? Your doing so would afford me much gratification. Do so if you can,

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