WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1858
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I know that you will not censure me for being anxious about you, particularly, as well as others, generally. I am fearful, my Dear, that you will think that I tried yesterday to be rather jocose, or witty, but I did not intend it so, and you must excuse me, for I assure you, that I do feel all that I say, of anxiety, and a desire to see you, to be with you, and to stay with you, and let the world wag; for I cannot control the destiny of this coun- try. Were I its ruler, I could rule it well. The great misfortune is, that a notion obtains with those in power, that the world, or the people, require more governing than is necessary. To govern well is a great science, but no country -is ever improved by too much governing. Govern wisely and as little as possible! Most men think when they are elevated to position, that it requires an effort to discharge their duties and they leave common sense out of the question. They think every subject is as great as their position, and imagine a mole's hill to be a mountain. Hence, they raise their heads to ascend the mountain, and stumble over the mole hill!!! It has been so with my friend Mr. B[uchanan]. He has Cabinet Councils to see who ought to be appointed Lieutenant in the army, or Post Master of a Town. The members, each has an axe to grind, and the President does not reflect that he has to turn the Grind Stone, for the whole Cabinet. This is what I would call too much governing. So, my Dear, I have served you a dish of politics, merely for a relish. Now, I have only to tell you how much I love you, and kiss my pen with which I write it. Love to all!!! Thy Devoted Houston. Margaret. 1From Mrs. Margaret John's collection of Houston materials.
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REMARKS ON THE DEFICIENCY BILL1
April 24, 1858. Mr. Houston. In relation to this survey I know very little- nothing except from the remarks I have heard in the Senate; but as to the character of the individual who was surveyor general2 of California, I can speak with a full knowledge. From fifteen years intimate acquaintance with him, with his transactions in public as well as in private life, I know that there is on the face of the globe no man more honest, more patriotic, and more faith- ful than he is, and I am satisfied that, though not the most accurate
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