520
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1844
branch are maintained in separate action, according to the pro- visions of the constitution. But by placing the seat of action of each of these branches remote from each other, instead of estab- lishing in the mind of the citizens one common centre as the depository of their rights and interests, it weakens the force and influence of them all upon the public mind. It is to be deplored as one of the greatest misfortunes to the country, that with the aid of the constitution and laws, there is but too little disposition manifested to render that respect and allegiance to the govern- ment so necessary to the maintenance of order and the promotion of the general prosperity. The less remote the separation in locality of the different departments of government, the greater will be their combined moral influence upon the community and the conduct of every citizen-the fewer di:.;tractions will occur, and, at the same time, convenience in administering the public affairs will be increased. Whatever might be the temporary convenience of a remova1 of the Supreme Court to Galveston, it would be more than countervailed by the bad influence which might hereafter be exerted on the country and its legislation. In matters of legis- lation, as well as in the administration of the laws, it is wise to have recourse but seldom to temporary expedients. In the man- agement of all important affairs, a system should be pursued by which the greatest good may result and the least possible injury. It is to be deplored that diversified and sectional interest should already have had such a malign influence upon our harmony as well as our national character. In the advancement of the general interest, union and harmony are all important; and whatever is calculated to promote them would seem to be the true policy to be adopted and pursued. If this bill were to pass into law, it would create a new and powerful sectional interest at Galveston; and if at any future day it should be de~med expedient that the Supreme Court should be again removed, and an attempt made to do so, Galveston would.have its adherents as a location, however manifest and important the general interest involved in its removal. During the agitation thus created, other measures affecting the general welfare would be lost sight of in the Legislature and combinations formed for the exchange of influence, having reference to this sectional measure. Believing as the Executive does, upon a full consideration of all the circumstances connected with the passage of the bill, that it would subserve the interest of the few and that the many
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