321
\VRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1844
solicitous to see the matter consummated, and my country at rest. 'Tis true that we are not to be great gainers, when com- pared to the U. States, in what they derive. Had I been at Washington, I would most certainly have, not made a treaty so ind~finite, as to individual, rights, which may arise, and be involved in the subject of annexation. We surrender every thing and in reality we get nothing, only protection, and that, at the hazard of being invaded, or annoyed by Mexico, before any aid could be rendered by the U. States. I hope that the precautions taken will be such as to deter Mexico, from any attempt upon us. The fact that the U. States are one of the Rival powers of the world, will render that nation more liable to war, than we would be as a minor power. T'here are a thousand reasons, which I could urge, why Texas would be more secure from troubles, if she could have present peace, which she can obtain readily, if she is not annexed. When we once become a part, and parcel of the U States we are subject to all their vicissitudes. Their commercial relations are extensive which subjects them to jealousy, and the rivalry of other powers who will seek to over reach them, and cramp them by restriction or annoy them by interferences. They will not be willing to submit to these things, and the consequence will be war. Nor will this danger arise, from any one power of the earth, but from various nations. The wealth of European nations depends more upon their labors, than the people of this continent. We look to the soil, they to their manufacturing capacity; for the means of life as well as wealth,-These facts are not all, and indeed but a very partial notice of important affairs. The political relations, of the U States will increase, and become more complicated & expensive with their increase of power. Not only this, but they too will grow arrogant, and it will not be a half century, if the Union should last, until they will feel a strong inclination to possess by force, that which they at the present-would be willing to make a subject of negociation and Treaty. In all contingencies if we are annexed, we have to bear a part of their troubles, no matter of what character. Alone and Independent, Texas, would be enabled to stand aloof from all matters unconnected with her existence, as a nation, while the causes of war to the U States, would be a source of benefit, and prosperity to her. War could grow up, with no power and the U States but what Texas would be the benificiary. The value of our staples would be inhanced, and that arising from the influences of war upon the U States.
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