WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1844
540
been so. When an individual is overwhelmed by misfortune, and that misfortune is lightened or relieved, the beneficiary always feels grateful for the benefits conferred, and in the event of a recurrence, would naturally look to the same source for a renewal of favor. Thus it must be with nations; and it will require no argument to convince the United States that, in submitting to the first proposition for a treaty of alliance with them, the authori- ties of Texas are far from pretermitting any just claims which they may have to the confidence of Texas as a nation-but the reverse. It is true that our eyes were directed to the United States, not only as a people but as a Government, to which Texas was most willing to feel herself obligated. If we did not realize all our expectations, we were far from concluding that anything left unaccomplished by her, arose from hostility to Texas on her part; and for that, among other reasons, we proposed an alliance as an earnest of the confidence we are still willing to place upon them and their efforts. You can, I presume, very readily ascertain, on presenting the subject to the consideration of that Government, in what light such a subject would be regarded. If they are really anxious for the maintenance of the institution of slavery in this country, and dread the interference of other powers upon that subject, it could be made a stipulation antecedent to others, in the treaty of alliance contemplated, and at once quiet the noise and appre- hension existing in the United States on that subject. I perceive that this subject has been one of great excitement in the United States, if I were to judge from the newspapers and the calumnies against myself to which it has given rise. I discover that many of the United States journals have become the vehicles of the coarsest abuse of me both personally and politically; and I was much gratified to see that a writer, over the signature of "Amistad," has written a piece both creditable to his head and his heart, and I have no doubt a complete refutation with all reason- able men who are disposed to regard things without jaundiced vision. I hope you will find it convenient to write to me pretty much at length upon the subjects touched in this letter; and keep us as well advised here, through newspapers, &c., as you can, of what is passing at Washington. I hope you will have the kindness to present me in terms of personal respect to Mr. Tyler, and salutations of cordial esteem to Col. Benton and others of my old friends with whom you may
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