333
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1859
his liberation. He was informed that the general had not the power; that there was an organized civil government, and it must be referred to them. Santa Anna insisted upon negotiation, and expressed his great aversion to all civil government. The general assured him that he could not do it. He then observed to the general something like this: That he could afford to be generous; that he was very fortunate; born to no common destiny; that.he had conquered the Napoleon of the West. The Commander-in-chief adverted to his conduct at the Alamo, as well as the massacre of Fannin and his men at Goliad. The first he sought to justify on the ground that it was in accordance with the rules of war. The second he excused himself for, assur- ing the general that he was not aware of any capitulation between General Urea and Colonel Fannin, and if he lived to regain power, he would make an example of Urea. The Commander-in-chief after awhile asked him if he wanted refreshment. It was ordered. He was asked if he wished his marquee, if he desired his camp baggage, if he wished his aide-de- camp. He expressed great pleasure at the proposition, but looked doubtful as to whether it could be so. They were ordered. Colonel· Almonte went and selected his baggage. His keys were never asked for; no search was made. He was treated as a guest. No indignity was offered him by the Commander-in-chief. To be sure, there was some turbulence of feeling in camp, but no rude manifestations. Under these circumstances it was that Santa Anna was received. Propositions were made to the Commander- in-chief that he should be executed, but they were repelled in a becoming manner. No one has sought to claim the honor of saving him on that occasion; and did the general feel a dispo- sition to claim any renown, distinction, or fame, for any one act of his life, stripped of all its :policy, he might do it for his conduct on that occasion. But, sir, there was reason as well as humanity for it. While Santa Anna was held a prisoner his friends were afraid to invade Texas, because they knew not at what moment it would cause his sacrifice. His enemies dared not attempt a combination in Mexico for invasion, for they did not know at what moment he would be turned loose upon them. So that it guaranteed peace to Texas so long as he was kept a prisoner; and for that reason, together with reasons of humanity, his life was preserved. It is true, he had forfeited it to the laws of war. Retaliation was just; but was it either wise, or was it humane, that he should have perished?
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