WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1860
540
an effective force, much beyond even that authorized to be called out by the Legislature. On the 17th inst., the following order was issued: [See to M. T. Johnson, March 17, 1860, above.] Colonel Johnson will take the field immediately, and although the grass is not high enough to sustain horses well, he will make a determined effort to get the Indians out of the country, track them up and punish them. A treaty negotiated between the United States and Mexico, is now before the United States Senate for ratification. Upon its success greatly depends the existence of friendly relationships between the two countries. While this delicate state of things exists, the Executive does not desire to precipitate or complicate matters. If compelled to act for the defence of Texas and to "adopt means to prevent recurrence of the outrages," he desires the cooperation of all Texians, and the sanction of law. He can but warn his fellow citizens against an unauthorized or premature movement, which can but result in great evil to those engaged in it and prevent the consummation of the end desired. An authorized expedition, governed by all the restraints of law, having for its object the overthrow of the bandits who made hostile incµrsions into ·Texas, would be hailed with delight by a large body of the Mexican people. An unauthorized one would but tend to strengthen those opposed to American influence in Mexico. What the Executive will do should the United States not pursue that course calculated to guard Texas against such outrages as have recently been committed on the Rio Grande, his fellow-citizens who have been with him in perilous days of the past can well determine; but, for the present, a bleeding frontier demands his action. He implores them to engage in no rash adventures, which would create erroneous impressions as to the designs of Texas. Our bleeding and suffering fellow-citizens on the frontier call for aid! The services of all those in a situation to respond to the call of humanity are needed to arrest the thefts, murders, and rapine, of which tidings are borne by express almost daily to the Executive. If there are any who meditate an independent invasion of Mexico, he points them to their own race and kindred and fellow-citizens-the helpless women and children on the frontier. Sam Houston. lThe Ha1·1·ison Flag (Marshall), April 13, 1860; Executive Reco1·ds, 1859-1861, pp. 111-112, Texas State Library.
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