WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1844
264
rather the deleterious influence which it has upon our population. The revolution has already introduced into Texas more wicked and ambitious men than could be desired in our present condition. In armies and in camps such men have an opportunity of ex- tending their acquaintance, and of deriving some prominence from associations which totally disqualifies them from usefulness in a peaceful community. Unwilling to embark in the useful avocations of life, in many instances they become restless dema- gogues or useless loafers. They are either ready to consume the substance which they have not earned, or to form combinations unfavorable to good order and the administration of the laws. Peace in Texas would relieve us from such people, and in the absence of their baleful influence give to society a vigorous con- stitution and healthy complexion. All the evifs which we have experienced have resulted from such characters, and unless we have peace permanently established among us we can not tell when a September election might not subject the country to the misrule of such men for three years. Furthermore, I wish to reside in a land where all will be sub- ordinate to law, and where none dare to defy its mandates. I have arrived·at that period of life when I desire retirement, and assurance that whatever I possess will be secured to me by just laws wisely administered. This privilege I would deem a rich requital for whatever I may have performed useful in life. With it I would be happy to retire from all the cares of public station, and live in the enjoyment of the reflection that if I had been serviceable to any portion of mankind their prosperity and hap- piness were ample recompense. I would give no thought to what the world might say of me, when I could transmit to posterity the reputation of an honest man. A special Minister, together with our resident Charge, has been appointed, with full powers and dispatches to consummate the work of annexation. But that you may be more perfectly in- formed of everything interesting connected with the subject, I have directed my private secretary and confidential friend, W. D. Miller, Esq., to convey my personal salutation and embraces to you, with authority to communicate everything and upon every subject. Mr. Miller is a young gentleman who has been connected with me in my office since the commencement of my present ad- ministration. He knows all my actions and understands all my motives. I have concealed nothing from him, nor will he conceal anything from you. Mr. Miller bears dispatches, and has been
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