WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 13,14
347
of any government. It is, however, addressed to Texians; but in language which even common courtesy does not sanction. For the information of your Excellency, I will suggest that · the commission sent out by this government for the purpose of regulating the conditions of an armistice between the two coun- tries, was authorized by the President of Texas, and as such must have been communicated to your Excellency; otherwise, the com- missioners could not have been received in their official capacity. Their credentials alone entitled them to the recognition of your- self or officers. The Texian commissioners had special and prescribed powers delegated to them, and all their acts were subject to the review and rejection or approval of the Executive. Without approval, they could acquire no validity. The designation of Texas as a depcirtment of the Mexican confederacy, so called, was highly obnoxious to the President; and, consequently, the conduct of the commissioners was at once disapproved. For this, you are now, Sir, pleased to express through your subaltern your indigncition at the perfidious conduct of the government of Texas. I regret much that you have given this complexion to the affair of the two countries. When men, by chance or providence, have been elevated to the rule of nations and entrusted with the protection of the best interests of the people, it must be considered a great misfortune, when they entail upon them calamities which their duties as philanthropists should teach them to avert. ·when belligerents even in the most angry excitement of feeling, are arrayed against each other, is it not proper that their chief- tains should preserve towards each other that comity which might render each other approachable, and thereby avert great human suffering and the effusion of human blood? 'When war rages, all ranks and conditions are subject to its agitations and calamities. Texas has already endured the extremest agony, and will en- deavor to profit by her experience. Against her you have again denounced war. We will await the event. Eight years ago you were a suppliant, obtained your liberation without ransom, ancl acknowledged the government of Texas. If Texas existed then as a nation, her recognition since that time by other powers, and her increased commercial relations, would well excuse your recognition of her sovereignty now. But, Sir, you speak of your resources and power. They were defied and triumphed over in 1836; and if you invade Texas in 1844, you will find neither her prowess nor the success of her arms less complete.
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