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"'RITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1844
and return to Texas, Texas ought not, cannot, and will not re- main in its present situation. The subject of annexation has already embarrassed our rela- tions with Mexico. The truce will end on the first of May as I presume, for I did not accede to the terms of the continuance of the armistice, as Texas was recognized as a "Department of Mexico" in the terms of agreement between the commissioners. Mexico was well disposed to settle matters very amicably, when our commissioners arrived at Sabinas, but one of the Mexican commissioners was too unwell to proceed in business. When he recovered, the subject of annexation was mooted in the United States, and the Texian Congress, all of which had reached Mexico. Of these facts, in part, Genl. Henderson was apprised, and the anticipated rupture of our negotiations with Mexico was one reason why I was so careful to require of Genl. Murphy, (en- dorsed by his Government) such pledges, as would secure us against all contingences that might arise to us, in consequence of our opening negotiations with the United States, on the subject of annexation. This Government has been called upon, and requested by her Majestys Government to know our relations to the Government of the United States. It was due to England and her Majestys Government was informed that au agent, Genl. Henderson, had been sent to Washington City to negotiate upon the subject of annexation; but the particulars were not rendered. Since this occurred, I had an interview with Capt. Elliot, and I do not think the British Government will withdraw its friendly offices from the subject of Peace between Texas and Mexico. It is reported here, that the Government of the United States has refused to sanction the pledges given by General Murphy. This surely cannot be the case. If so you will have found your- selves in a most awkward dilemma. What--disavow such pledges when they were based upon Mr. Upshur's letter? I can- not believe this, unless the United States desired Texas to sur- render herself to the uncertainty, or chances of annexation, contingent upon the various political influences which might interpose to the effectuation of the object, and subject us to the injurious and annoying action. of Mexico, instigated by the ad- hesion of Texas to the United States. A refusal on the part of that Government to secure us against consequences, which it has produced by direct solicitation to us, would be selfish in the ex- treme, and indeed I cannot conceive appropriate terms in which
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