WRITINGS OF 5AM: HOUSTON, 1842
247
as consistent with their amicable relations with Mexico; and by extracts from private notes addressed by the Charge d'Affaires of Her Britannic Majesty, to the Executive, which are herewith submitted, it will be perceived that France has also mainfested a readiness and willingness to become, so far as she can, a party to the mediation. How far the United or separate efforts of those powers many influence the action of Mexico, it is not possible to divine; but they certainly present the ground for a reasonable hope that they will have a beneficial influence upon our affairs with that country. In reply to the desire expressed by one branch of the Honor- able Congress, for all the information in possession of the Execu- tive in relation to the probability of invasion, he can only say, that from the general tenor of the information (if such it can be termed) which he has received, he is left to make his reflections without such data as would enable him to arrive at satisfactory conclusions. His opinion is that Mexico at this time, is in a revo- lutionary condition, and should the present dictator and the· Con- gress disagree as to the form of government now or lately under discussion, the consequence will be an attempt on the part of the dictator to rivet the chains of his power upon the Mexican people by military force; and in that event a revolution will most probably ensue. Should this be the case, it is not probable that Mexico would be in a situation to invade Texas ·with a formidable army; nor can I yet believe she will attempt the establishment of a permanent force within our limits. Her superiority by sea, may enable her to harrass our sea board and thereby inflict upon us occasional embarrassments. To this end, therefore, we ought to direct some precaution. That she will attempt an incursion into our borders, with an inconsiderable regular force, united with rancheros and a few Indians as auxiliaries may reasonably be expected. If this should be the case we should be prepared for them by the first of March at farthest. The Executive hopes, with the aid of Congress, to have it in his power to meet this possible emergency. Alone and unaided by means, he can achieve nothing; with the assistance of Congress much may be done. He anticipates confidently a treaty of peace and amity with all the Indians upon our borders; and should adequate means be placed at his disposition, he can render them efficient friends in preventing the successful inroads of the Mexicans; as they would have it in their power and be ready, with small encouragement, to deprive the enemy of their cavalry and pack mules.
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