WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1843
285
we can best effect the great object of resisting the enemy, and forgetting the petty feuds which arise from local or factious feelings, unite in the holy bonds of brotherhood, and present such a phalanx to the enemy as would give them a signal repulse and at once redeem our soil from all future attempts at invasion. If, however, we permit those schisms and feelings to exi~t which have heretofore reduced Texas to the very verge of destruction, we can hope for nothing but panic and disaster. Since early in the year 1837, Texas has been recognized as an independent state, and has had little else to do except in occasional excitement, than to organize and establish the civil institutions of the country. The derangement of our finances has done much to reduce us to our present depressed condition; and though they ·were foreseen and foretold, the evil was not prevented ; and it behoves us therefore at this time if possible to remove the evils and obviate the misfortunes with which we are surrounded. This can only be done by concert and union. Dis- sensions may exist in a country in time of profound peace without great detriment to the nation; but when a community is environed by difficulties and external dangers, nothing but concord and united exertion can avert destruction. That our enemy is en- couraged with the belief and by the hope that the efforts of gov- ernment will be paralyzed by influences which will thwart its plans and render its efforts nugatory, there can be but little doubt. The newspapers of our country which reach Mexico with astonishing celerity, will convey to them the idea that we are in a distracted and compa·ratively helpless condition. This will be calculated to inspire them with confidence; and in proportion as they believe that their success will be easy so will be their willing- ness and anxiety to achieve a great and bloodless triumph. If flushed with hope, they will come with an ardor and efficiency, which they would not do if they believed that they were to invade a country whose resources have increased since the disasters which befel its enemy in 1836. If Texas is now united, and those in command of her troops will exercise forecast and discretion, these circumstances might be turned to good account, otherwise we have much less to hope for. The Executive in making this communication feels it a duty he owes to himself and the country, that he should present to the consideration of Congress a subject which immediately affects his relations with the Republic. The constitution declares that the President shall be commander-in-chief of the army and navy;
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