Page:Life and Select Literary Remains of Sam Houston of Texas (1884).djvu/316

 to the requisitions of my countrymen. If the power is given me, and I do not exercise it with fidelity and ability in the promotion of the best interests of the nation, I will never assume the plea of incapacity, for I would feel, after the confidence expressed by my countrymen in my capacity and patriotism, that I should be accountable for the motives of niy heart as well as the exercise of my intellectual faculties.

In the promotion of the prosperity and glory of my country, every energy of my mind shall be employed; and, to extricate our fair land from the misfortunes which overshadow its present prospects, my exertions shall be continued, with a fervent and devout invocation to the God who buildeth up nations, that the clouds which now lower upon our destiny may be dispelled, and that His wisdom may direct us in the path of glory and honor, and that the people of this nation may be established in virtue, prosperity, and happiness.



Events have transpired since your adjournment which, in the opinion of the Executive, demand the action of Congress in extraordinary session. The termination of your last session left the Executive surrounded with numerous and insuperable difficulties, to which circumstances, since arising, have added causes of embarrassment requiring the exercise of all the wisdom, energy, and patriotism which the nation can command. The necessary aids were solicited to meet the emergencies which have since taken place and which were anticipated by the Executive; but the honorable Congress did not accord in his suggestions, and the precautionary measures requisite were not adopted.

A demonstration by Mexico on our frontier has taken place; and a marauding party, under the most imposing aspect, has penetrated our territory as far as San Antonio. A violent excitement and commotion throughout the country were the consequence; and our brave citizens of the frontier, without order, regularity, or discipline, rushed to the supposed scene of action. On the arrival, however, at the point of expected conflict, they found that the enemy had retreated with great precipitation. No organization of the men took place, nor was any report made to the Executive, or Department of War, of their numbers or condition. Rumor, however, at last induced the belief that there was an assemblage of citizens at Bexar who were ready to rush with impetuosity across the Rio Grande. Acting under this impression, the Executive directed the organization of the men, and the prosecution of a campaign, if it could be commenced with any prospect of success. But for various reasons this was not done. No organization, although attempted, could be accomplished. Difficulties arose among themselves as to who should lead them; and. in the end, they found themselves, on examination, totally unprepared for a campaign—inasmuch as they had left their homes upon a momentary summons, and were