WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1843
185
above mentioned communication, has agreed with the said Robinson upon the basis by which the object in view may be consummated and to this end, he the undersigned, by virtue of the authority vested in him, ap- points the said Robinson as commissioner to proceed to Texas and in conformity therewith take such preparatory steps as he in his judgment may deem most suitable and conducive to the attainment of the object proposed: Wherefore, Mr. Robinson agreeably to the tenor of the b~sis above mentioned will: Firstly: intimate to the inhabitant proprietors in Texas that the Supreme Government is desirous to terminate the War with that territory, not because it considers itself without the means and resources to maintain the contest and eventually triumph, but from mo- tives of humanity and on account of the interest she feels for the welfare of those colonists. Second: That inasmuch as the interest of those inhabitants is peace and tranquility and good order, and the security of their persons and property, the enjoyment of which they cannot expect to realize while they remain in one continued state of turmoil, a natural consequence of this same war; the Supreme Government guarantees to them the full enjoyment of those blessings. Fourth: That with this in view the inhabitants of Texas will lay aside their arms; and it is an essential and imprescriptable condition that they recognize in Mexico her right of property to the territory and acknowledge the sovereignty of the nation, her laws, ordinances, and general orders. Fifth: That inasmuch as this is the basis of the whole, none of the other propositions will be entertained or even listened to until this ~hall be admitted by Texas in plain and unequivocal terms without the least modification. Sixth: That this being admitted as a fundamental principle as above mentioned, Texas will be permitted to appoint her own functionaries and authorities, both civil and military, in conformity with the General Con- stitution of the Republic. Seventh: That no Mexican troops will be sent to Texas-she will depend upon herself for the security of that Department as such, and the defence of her frontier which will be effected by her own forces formed of the resident citizens. Eighth: That as regards the power of the legislature to approve or enact laws with the exception of those esteemed necessary for the regulation of her internal police, the "junta Departmental" may, in the e:,cercise of its functions, present to the General Congress such as it mny deem 1·equisite. · Ninth: And finally, that in all other particulars, Texas will conform to whatever may be established for the government of the othet· Dc-part- ments of the Republic. Taking for granted the foregoing as a basis, and Mi·. Robinson p•·on~is- ing faithfully to discharge the duties of his commission in conformity therewith, and with the greatest zeal and efficiency, it is understood thut the Supreme Government will receive with pleasure information of the favorable result of his laudable exertions, or any deputation which, in relation to the matter, may be directed to the seat of Government, to
Powered by FlippingBook