WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1846
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mind of both countries? Think you not that the popular mind of England is agitated to some extent? Can she be calm at heart? We know that the public mind in this country cannot be at rest, and is it therefore wise in us to permit this agitating subject to remain in its present condition? I answer no, Mr. President. I venture this opinion, however erroneous it may be, that had the co-.ordinate branches of the government cooperated with the Executive with the promptitude, and in the spirit in which he acted, to-day everything had been tranquil, England quiet, and the public mind in the United States calm, serene, and unexcited. On the subject of our having acted in accordance with our right in giving the notice, no question could have arisen. England knows it is our right, and our perogative to exercise it. But when Great Britain finds that the policy of the Executive is opposed or denounced by American statesmen, her presses at once change their tone. This very opposition is sufficient to inspirit England to beard this country into a war-to embarrass the Executive of the nation-I mean the measures of the Executive, not the man. I do not know that he can be embarrassed. Twenty years since I was associated with him in the counsels of this nation. Since then, it is true, time has silvered his locks, and left an impress upon his brow. But I believe he yet retains unimpaired all the faculties which he ever possessed. Once I knew his perceptions were clear, his views comprehensive, his mind vigorous, his poli- tical purposes patriotic; and he was decidedly energetic in the accomplishment of his designs. He is, I trust, yet all that he ever was; and by the efficient co-operation of the co-ordinate departments of government, I doubt not but that he will be enabled to bring this matter to a happy consummation, and thus avert the evils of war, so much deprecated in this chamber. If war is not averted, it has been suggested that preparations are necessary. I grant it true. Our situation is not one of preparation. We should always be in a defensible position. Within more than a half a century, when have we been in a proper situation for defence? Are we now making preparations for war? ·wm we ever be prepared until it comes upon us? Never. It is not in the genius of this people. They are bold, daring, and confident; and until the shock of danger comes, every American is proud of the national character; and, glorying in his individual liberty, each feels that he is indeed a freeman, and therefore cannot be conquered. They cannot realize the necessity of concert and preparation. It is this uni- versal feeling that prevents the national defences from assuming
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