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WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1824-1857
the ·24th or pth Instant. Notwithstanding my anxiety to see you I would not ·for the world that my desires, should cause you to do anything, which might, by misconstruction, cause you regret. But for the rains I would certainly have had the pleasure to embrace you in this hour! As to the Barbecue, it will not be in my power to attend it, and as you may desire me, to say what I deem proper for you to do in the case, I can only [say], that unless you have a strong desire to be there, I would write a kind apology and make my official engagements an excuse for declining the invitation! Since I last wrote you, I have reflected much on the terms, or basis of the proposed annexation, and I have come to the conclu- sion, that annexation can only be effected by negotiation. It is plain and manifest, that without the amendment the Bill, or resolutions never would have passed the Senate! Then if Texas on the basis of Brown's Resolutions were to accede, it is almost certain that she would be rejected, and thereby, utterly degraded, in the eyes of all nations. The boundary of Texas must be defined. It is insisted upon by some, that we will be "reannexed" as a part once of Louisiana. Now, if this be true, the Rio Grande, was the boundary of the U. States Territory previous to the Treaty of 1819. The sentiments of the U. States Congress indi- cates, a different, and more contracted boundary. I heard the most_ ardent friend of annexation that I know declare, that he would not consent. to any terms, that would not admit the Rio Grande, as the boundary of Texas, and that negotiations would be proper, under the action of the U. States Congress. I fear the U. States have made a false step, in proposing Brown's resolu- tions. These are my private views, for I will not discuss matters in their present attitude. I wish matters to move on, in the appropriate channel of intercourse between nations. Diplomacy is [the] most wise, and suitable mode of settling grave and important affairs between nations. Annexation is a subject of the most profound importance, and you may rely upon it, my friend, that no mortal forecast, can embrace, one out of a hun- dred consequences, which are a result to this continent, and its inhabitants, if it should be consummated. Undoubtedly it is more necessary to the U. States, than it can be to Texas. I only desire if it is done that it may be accomplished upon fair, just and honorable conditions, to both countries. I only intended to write
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