WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1844
326
This can be accomplished, if the United States carry out the pledges which they have already given. The compromittal of our national honor I cannot apprehend ; nor would I entertain any proposition which could be adverse to our character as an independent nation-but Texas can now command interests which will require no such sacrafice. We must act. You, gentlemen, will be advised by the former communications from this government, and act in accordance with them. It would seem, from the complexion of matters at Washington, that Gen. Henderson's remaining there longer would be unnecessary. As indicated in my last communication, negotiations can be very well conducted at this government-not designing to cast any reflections upon the Representatives of this Government at Washington, in whom the Executive has the highest confidence. Moments of leisure could be employed here, and even hours and days commanded, which is not permitted when urgent despatches arrive. The locality of our seat of government is such that the Executive has had to substitute himself in correspondence for the Secretary of State, and dispense with the services of that valuable officer, for the sake of despatch.-Tomorrow I intend to leave here for the seat of government. Gen. Henderson will, previous to leaving \1/ ashihgton City, in company with Mr. Van Zandt, who will remain at that Court, wait upon the Executive, Mr. Tyler, and assure him that this government, relying upon the pledges given by that Government will confidently expect that no molestation to T'exas by Mexico will be permitted, or the aids already ordered withdrawn, with- out the consent of this government. The measure of annexation having been taken up at the instance of the United States, ought to secure Texas and fortify her, by the United States, against all inconven1ence arising from opening negotiations upon that subject. The Treaty having been signed and submitted to the Senate is all that can be performed on the part of Texas. Further solicitations on her part would present her as an object of commiseration to the Civilized world. If the embarrassments of our condition have presented us in a humiliating posture, and we have to brook mortification, it furnishes no excuse to us for voluntary degradation- Therefore it is that my purpose is fixed in relation to the subject of which I have treated. The desires of the people of Texas, with my love of repose (this far I am selfish) had determined me in favor of annexation.
l
I
' .
l....
Powered by FlippingBook