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WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1844
This must be assured to her, otherwise she may act unwisely in entertaining any proposition on the subject for a single moment. I, however, rely with confidence upon the magnanimity of that Government to see that she suffers no detriment, either now or hereafter, from the plain manifestation of affection toward the mother-land. There is a sameness or unity in our national interests and institutions in Texas which does not exist in the United States. All our population is agricultural, and we have no sectional insti- tutions or diversified interests. The farming, manufacturing, maritime, and mercantile interests all claim the peculiar consid- eration of the national Congress. Texas, independent, would be free from the agitations arising from this condition of things. The interests of the North and the South render it almost two distinct nations. The question of slavery can not arise in Texas. One portion of the Republic can not, on this subject, be arrayed against another. By annexation we should subject ourselves to the hazard of tranquility and peace on this subject, which as a separate power would not exist. The debt of Texas is a mere "drop in the bucket." Our public domain comprises at least 150,- 000,000 of acres of arable land, with every delightful variety of climate, and every natural advantage which a country of the same extent could possibly enjoy. But notwithstanding I take this view of things, my deliberate judgment has led me to the conclusion, founded upon an intimate acquaintance with our condition, that the present policy of Texas dictates that I should unreservedly cooperate in the contemplated measure. I think it wisdom growing out of necessity, and not an abandonment of principle. If there is any selfishness in my heart I do not know it. I have now lived for half a century, and thirty years of that time I have been chiefly engaged in active employ- ment for, as I believed, the advancement of human happiness. How far I may have been useful is a question I never ask. How my actions are to be appreciated, so they are right, I never care. I have been actuated all my life from feelings of honorable emula- tion, but not those of empty ambition, nor the idle vanity of commanding the plaudits merely of the world. Circumstances have thrown me into prominent and responsible situations, and like yourself, General, I have received a full share of abuse. But that has never deterred me from doing what I believe to be right, regardless of consequences. I have no desire to see war renewed again in Texas. It is not the apprehension of personal danger that would alarm me, but
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