The Writings of Sam Houston, Volume IV

WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1843

220

cheering displays ever witnessed in Texas. I hope my presence here will not be necessary in reference to our Mexican affairs, until my return. At all events I shall feel very confident that my friend, Captain Elliot will· know how to appreciate my absence, and that his suggestions to the Secretary of State will be well received. I am not so well off as the " mock duke" in the play. He could perform his duties by deputy. To get matters along in " ship shape, " I find it necessary to perform a portion of the disagreeable duties of my station " in propria persona." Hence the necessity of my bearing the sins of the people to the wilderness in imitation of the Israelitish custom, in which a very _inelegant animal had to perform a portion of the ritual! I hope, however, that it will result in good. Universal peace will make Texas: a blessed country, indeed; and I sincerely hope that when the object is accomplished those who have ministered in the temple will not be cast aside, but that gratitude will manifest a nation's sense of obligation. Orders will be left here, that if important dispatches arrive they will be forwarded to me. I wish I had time to address you at more length. I might then advert to the conduct of a certain diplomatic agent of a friendly power now in Mexico. He is making developemnts which I imagine will startle his Government. I apprehend he will think he has fallen upon evil times. Very truly your friend, Sam Houston [Rubric] "'Houston's Private Executive Record Book," pp. 403-404, courtesy of Mr. Franklin Williams.

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To JAMES H. RAYMOND 1

Washington, 24th July, 1843

$24.00 Mr. J. H. Raymond, Acting Treasurer,

Sir You will please to pay to Dani. J. Toler, Esq., Twenty four Dollars in Exchequers out of my salary fund on Deposit and this shall be your voucher Sam Houston [Rubric]

1 From the original owned by Mrs. Madge W. Hearne.

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