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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1822-1841
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our time at the last session, and finally became a law. I gave to this measure my cheerful support, and am confirmed in the opinion which I then entertained of its policy, from its salutary effects upon the country. I am aware, that in Tennessee, as well as every other State, there is a diversity of opinions on the sub- ject. This is not to be wondered at, when we reflect with what reluctance men generally yield their accustomed theories and ·practices for new ones, however, improved. It would be a source of much satisfaction to me, could I believe that this subject is fully comprehended, by all who condemn its policy; but when I see many of the ablest statesmen here, who array their sectional interests against the general good, I fear that their seducing arguments may have improperly influenced some who would dis- dain to persevere in error, when that error became apparent. I must, therefore, suggest some of the considerations which in- fluenc•ed my mind on this subject, and which appear to be irresistible when dispassionately weighed. This is no new theory: it, in principle, took its origin with the rise of this Republic, and is now no longer a dispute as to prin- ciple; but as a mere question as to the extent to which that well founded principle should be carried. In a country so extensive and diversified as ours, and which possesses the means of pro- ducing almost every material which composes the articles of foreign manufacture; and in which an almost infinite fund of resources are yet to be unfolded, for our melioration and ad- vantage. I am at a loss to see how a free American can be willing to encourage the resources of other nations, in fabricating for us the raw materials of our own count~y, and sending them back to us more than quadrupled in price. I have never been in favor of prohibitions, or setting up for ourselves, at the present; this would be a scheme of rashness, that would deserve the cen- sure of every one; but so to increase, from time to time, the duties on foreign merchandise consumed amongst us, as would give encouragement to the growth of our infant manufactures, and when built up by the fostering hand of the National Legisla- ture, I do not fear their prostration from equal competition. It cannot have escaped the notice of anyone, that al,1 other nations, whose prosperity we have witnessed, have adopted the most rigid means for shielding themselves against buying their articles of consumption from abroad; and that, on the contrary, all who have adopted a different policy have been clothed with wretched- ness. But this subject is not, now, left to speculative opinions;
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