WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1858
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regarded as the most healthy portion of our State. About you and your present situation, I reflect more than I do about politics; and I feel that I am well employed, while reflecting that I am absent and ought to be at home. Thy Devoted Houston. Margaret. 1 From the Collection of Houston materials owned by Mrs. Margaret John, Houston, Texas. zFor many years Mrs. Houston was a great sufferer from asthma. REMARKS ON THE BILL CONCERNING FISHING BOUNTIES 1 May 19, 1858. Mr. Houston. I have heard with some attention the discussion upon this subject, and I do not intend to detain the Senate by any lengthened remarks of mine. Under another state of affairs I might be disposed to vote for the passage of this bill; but I think the indications of this morning bespeak for us a prospect of diffi- culties on the ocean. The message which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations a few minutes ago, would seem to indicate that there is, perhaps, trouble ahead; and that will be, to a great extent, confined to the ocean ; and a marine will be necessary; and it ought to be the most efficient we can muster under the auspices of the nation. Our present Navy, I consider, is practicaHy abolished or disbanded. It is in no situation to compete with the navy of any nation upon earth in its present .disorganized state. Our seamen and marines are generally for- eigners. We have no tie that binds them to our service, but the pay that they get. They are mercenaries. They are not citizens . who have at heart the interests of the country. They do not feel concerned for the honor of the national flag. They serve where they can get the best pay. We cannot rely on such men on board our vessels to the extent that is necessary in case of a maritime war. It is essential, then, that we should pursue that policy which is best calculated to strengthen our marine. If war should grow up between the United States and England it will be mainly con- ducted-at least the efficient part of it-by privateers, manned by active seamen; and I feel satisfied, on reflection, that this policy, inaugurated under the administration of General Jack- son was intended with reference to that very object-to foster and increase our mercantile and fishing marine as fast as pos- sible, so as, in the event of war, to enable us to maintain our position on the seas.
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