195
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1843
that I have lost all confidence in all reports which are not im- mediately confirmed by facts. When we are out of all patience, we can say with Dawson: "Texas is a funny country!" Unless something occurs in its favor, before long there will be some solemnity in its situation. I have heard of, but have not seen, a publication which I am told our friend Gail has made about taking Exchequers at 80 cents, &c. I do hope it is but a report; and that it cannot be true that he has given this notice and assurance that he would take them at this rate until the expiration of his term of office. If he has done so, it will become a matter of very se1;ious consideration; and I doubt not it will call the attention of the Department, as it most certainly invokes the most direct reprehension while it involves a serious responsibility. Gail is a great enthusiast, and so far as this is confined to his private relations, 'tis all well; but when he blends it with his official duties, it is an unpardonable offence against the obligations which he owes to his station, both morally and officially. I hope it may not be as represented to me. I have always believed Gail an honest man; and if this is the case and it is decided that he is a sane man, I will canvass my belief and see if it has not [been] erroneous. Write to me whenever you have nothing else to do; but my request is; let nothing on my account interfere with your business. Sam Houston [Rubric] "'Houston's Private Executive Record Book," pp. 367-368, courtesy of Mr. Franklin Williams. The name of the person to whom this letter was written has not been ascertained. The context of the letter It-ads on& to guess that it was written to Colonel James Morgan or to William S. Murphy. See Houston to Morgan, March 26, 1843, this volume.
To THOMAS C. CoLLINs 1
Private
Washington, 4th May, 1843.
To Thomas P. Collins, Esq. Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 22d of April has been placed in my hands and perused. I discover that you are apprehensive some representations may be made to your prejudice. None have been made to the Department, and I hope there will be none. Dr. Kirchhoffer did not attend the office in person; and
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