WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1846
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officer, or the good soldier, was in his own bosom. The mechanical :i;art of the profession was easily acquired. A few days' drill conferred that. But discipline was not valor; it only gave greater efficiency to valor. To the brave man, with the stout heart and sturdy arm, whatever his pursuits or profession-to the humblest soldier, whose gallantry in the field marked him above his fellows -to all who had the natural right which bravery and noble daring conferred; he would open the door of promotion. He was there- fore opposed to partial legislation on this subject, and would give to the President the fullest scope in the appointment of these officers.
1 Co11g1·essionctl Globe, 1845-1846, p. 827.
To JAMES K. PoLK 1 If His Excellency could make the appt of George Van Ness~ as a Captain in the New Regt., it may be best. The influence of his family may be important to the administration. It is powerful. Col. Howard can look to the South; and may find promotion there. Van Ness is capable & brave. He was in the Santa Fe & Mier expeditions, and twice a prisoner. Sam Houston Jas. K. Kolk President 22nd May. [1846]? [Endorsed] : President of the United States George Van Ness refers letter _of Sam Houston recommending appt of Geo. Van Ness to a Captaincy in the new Regt. 1 From the Emil Hurja Collection, Washington, D. C. While there was no year date given in this document, it was no doubt 1846. :For some information concerning George Van Ness, see Volume II, 166, 505. A JOINT RESOLUTION SUBMITTED TO CONGRESS, MAY 28, 1846, SUGGESTING A VOTE OF THANKS TO GENERAL TAYLOR AND HIS COMMAND 1 Mr. Houston submitted the following resolution which was read a first and second time: Joint Resolution presenting the thanks of Congress to Briga- dier General Taylor, and for other purposes. Resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatfres of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the thanks
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