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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1858
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absurd to be entertained by a rational mind. The more she strug- gles, ostensibly for the bettering of her condition, the more anarchial she becomes. To bring such a population as hers into · the Union, would be to assume the gravest of responsibilities. To suffer her to be parceled out by filibusters-each chief per- haps a despot-would be to fraternize with every desperate adventurer in our own land, and to invite to our continent all the wild, vicious spirits of the other hemisphere. Nor could we consent, without palpable dishonor, to see her placed in the lead- ing strings of any European owner, even were there a disposition manifested to so place her. We have, then, no alternative, if we put the slightest value upon our interests, and are not disposed to disregard our duty, but to arrange plans immediately for rul- ing her wisely, and, as far as possible, gently.' In the consummation of great measures, we are apt to be- perhaps a little too apt-a closely cost-calculating people. In the matter of the proposed protectorate of Mexico, one of the first questions which is likely to suggest itself to our countrymen is that relating to the expenditure it will involve. Happily, this can be readily and satisfactorily answei:ed. The protectorate must be self-protecting-the expense incident to it defrayed by the protected. The general Government of Mexico could probably be administered, taking a term of ten years, for $6,000,000; while her customs receipts under a well- regulated and honestly administered revenue, would double that amount. Our Gulf and Pacific squadrons would be ample for the protection of her commerce in those quarters, and without sub- jecting us to additional outlays. Five thousand reliable regular troops, properly garrisoned, and distributed, would insure the establishment and preservation of internal order; and the adop- tion of a good police system would eventuate in bringing to jus- tice and effectually subduing the rapacious and blood-thirsty bandits who infest her highways. Hence it is clear that we have it in our power to improve the condition of Mexico immeasur- ably; to breathe the breath of new Iife into her nostrils; and without incurring the risk of a dollar. What a salutary change would this be, not only for both countries, but for the world at large! Faithless to her engagements, Mexico has been for a long time but little better than a national outlaw. She is powerful for the commission of wrongs, but powerless for their redress. Our Department of State is the repository for the grievances of our citizens by her high-handed deeds-but nothing more than a
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