Page:Life and Select Literary Remains of Sam Houston of Texas (1884).djvu/41

Rh who tried severely his remarkable powers. The path of prosecuting attorney was new to him, but it is said that he rarely failed in his prosecutions. If twitted upon the suddenness of his legal promotion, or berated for want of experience in the practice, his retorts were so well turned and applied that he was neither twitted for his freshness, nor berated for his inexperience again. His practical sense and keen insight into human genius made ample amends for want of legal reading and long experience. He labored unceasingly in the duties of District Attorney. At the end of twelve months he was compelled to resign, as the fees of the office were too inconsiderable for his support. Resuming the regular practice, business crowded upon him, and rapidly promoted him to high distinction. Only powers of the highest order could have advanced a young man so rapidly at the capital of' Tennessee, and in the presence of some of the most distinguished men of the Union. Had he confined himself to the bar he would have placed his name and fame among the first jurists of the world. But political life had its attractions for him, and in 1823, when thirty years of age, his friends urged him to submit his name to the voters of his district as a candidate for the U. S. House of Representatives. Every station, so far, in life, had been worthily filled, and had inspired his fellow-citizens with the highest respect. His career as a lawyer displayed true native genius. Self made as to education, of commanding address and imposing personal figure, a favorite of the Old Chieftain of the Hermitage, he was elected to Congress without opposition. The following letter is rare for its writer, its object, and the person to whom it is addressed: ", Oct. 4th, 1823.

", Esq.,

"Monticello, near Charlottesville, Virginia.

":—This will be handed to you by Gen. Sam. Houston, a representative to Congress from this State, and a particular friend of mine, to whom I beg leave to introduce you. I have known General Houston many years, and, entertaining for him the highest feelings of regard and confidence, recommend him to you with great safety. He has attained his present standing without the extrinsic advantages of fortune or education, and has sustained, in his various promotions from the common soldier to the Major-General, the character of the high-minded and honorable man. As such I present him to you, and shall regard the civilities which you may render him as a great favor.

"With a sincere wish that good health and happy days are still yours, "Your friend, and very obliged servant, "." Some of the most eminent men who have ever held a seat in the National Councils were members of Congress at this time. Henry