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THE MACON GEORGIA TELEGRAPH.
J|r. VV<»d!>ur/ aa the Annexation Question
Or.tt tttfSft:—^aar letter of the 9th intt.. hss ju
I Mr. Van Bnren in the summerof 1£ .‘9—the decree of Hex- lion, rather than the British side, or the side of any of the
L- - - * ‘ • ' iWr^‘ J despotisms of the Old World, must be considered as adopt*
' here forever. What other conclusions could have iiiflu-
... ! ie-tlor abolishing slavery inter poasassiins notbeinj issued de*
WASHINGTON May 11. 1844. I^uSeptember 15,1889. I will only add, in order to avoid ed 1
jast been ' misapprehension.’ that so far from feeling opposed to the enced both Mexico srd mar Government in 1395. when
TfteairaJ, aiatiug tint a public meeting has been held in termination of slavery by all legal, safe, aud constitutional applied to her to sell Texa3 to us, without asking any assent
Prince William county, Virginia, at which a resolution was means, none could rejoice more heartily than myself to «ep by Spain, or getting her engagement not to make war upon
’ ■ itthug ended lire world over; and among the whites, as well us ? and this, though Mexico had not then maintained her
as blacks; among the disfranchised, the serfs and paupers of independence near solongss Texas now ? and though Spain
E a rone, and even the dark Hindoos, as well as the slide • was still engaged in actual hostilities with her. and occupat
ions of Africa; »ot confining mv sympathies to color or ing a fo ires* considered the key and Gibraltar of Mexico?
name but to real suffering and degradation among the whole I and thoogh Spain never recogn zed her independoure till
human race.and to their relief, by introducing gradually a * r '— * n " ‘-I * ... m .t.
pined t> ascertain my “views in regard to Annexation of
Teats." As the titrating is to couvene again oo the 18th
tnst, you request an immediate answer on that subject, for
the purp >se of laying it before those who may assemble on
that occasion.
Accordingly. though such an answer mast be very imper
fect, fro.n want of time, and though my general impressions
ill relaiio i to this subject were communicated to the public
in December last, yet, as the state of the question may ap-
gittuSMMIObive materially altered since, and yon de
sire farther explanations, 1 bssten in give a sketch of ray
views on the case, as it now stands before the community.
By a careful examination of facts and principles, I have
formed a conscientious conviction that the immediate An
nexation of Texas to the United States is proper. The rea
lms which hate had mast weight in bringing me to this
conclusion ate.as follows:
.Because the territory of Texas lies so near the great mon
arch of the Western waters, and especially the mouth of
the Mississippi on the Gulf of Mexico, and the em|H>riutn of
Western commerce at New Orleans, as to bo very import
ant, if uot vital to their security, in the event of war. An 1
its p icssi ):i by us would at all times contribute essentially
to protect a i exposed frontier from the torch and scalping
knife of Indian outrage, enabling us much moro effectually
,10 hold in check the aboriginals near, whether within or
without our present boundaries, whenever tbev may be
a irred up u tder that foreign influence which has too ofteo
h j.-et ifore stimulated that ferocious race to drench our bor
der* in blooi.
Because the obligation on ns thus to procare security and
tranquility to the industry and trade of the whole Mississippi
Valley, embracing over a million square miles, and nine
millions of people, is national and not sectional, and deeply
involves the interests as well as the affections and happiness
of their kindred in the East, and every other portion of our
fraternal Government. It is an obligation stronger and more
solemn, if possible, than that was half a century ago to pro-
Cure the freedom of their trade through the free navigation
of the Mississippi river—an object which, afterour independ
ence was achieved, long agitated the anxious conncils of the
fathers of the Revolution ; and, considering' its momentous
importance, not only then, but in the growing future, waa at
lastchesply purchased at the expense cf millions by buying
Louisiana, and afterwards cheaply defended by the sacrifice
of life and treasure on the plains of New Orleans.
Because this annexation would secure the West and
Southwest against other disturbing cauaes; aurh as collis-
i ioi in the navigation of some of our rivers, whose sources
are now in possession of a foreign power, and the want of a
large natural and striking barrier and boundary on the
Southweat, between us and different Governments, as well
Us different, if uot hostile races; end annoying exposure to
foreign aggressions on the property and domestic institutions
of the South and Southwest; which property and institu
tions, however different from those in other sections, are
such as they came into the Union with, and for half a cen
tury have remained under its sacred guaranties, and till
Changed by themselves, or the Union dissolved, are entitled
to, and especially, in the authority given by Congress in
1811. for the forcible occupation of Florida, received the
aatne security as the institutions and property of the North.
Because the anuexafrtg of Texas, in its influence on all
the great branches ol industry, is not merely a Western or
Beuihern question, but one deeply interesting to every quar
ter of on r common country—whether it promotes that indus
try by opeaiag to agriculture mure ferule soils and genial
climates, or by forming a wider home market for manufac
tures, or by furnishing new articles of commerce, and new
bays and rivers for the free navigation of Western steamers,
os well as coasting and freighting vessels from the East.
And, finally, because by this annexation we should not
only restore to the Unions Territory thus desirable, but one
bought la 1803 by our own treasure—defended in 1315 by
«urown arms—and thoogh ceded away in 1819, yet iu con
sent was not asked to the measure, ana therefore it seeins
still entitled, by the express obligation of the original treaty,
tn be admitted into :be Union, and to eojoy all its privileges
■and rights. A territory which hss never united with any
other country, except as a part of an independent State in
the Confederacy ol Mexico; and when that Confederacy
was dissolved by the oppressions smt usurpations of Santa
Anna, re assorted its rights as an indetrendent Government,
and bus since successfully maintained those rights, “with
the lives, the fortunes, and the sacred honor." of it* people;
-and, by the comnwn origin of most of them with ourselves,
-no lean than their cammon education, religion, form of Gov
-eminent. and social institutions, as well us Saxon blood, be-
-siie their contiguous residence and claims under former
treaties, they are better suited to unite with us than any otb
er pnwer. For reasons like tbeso. as they are now desirous
■of annexation, which delays may endanger, if not defeat,
through disappointment and foreign interference, it ought.
» my opinion, to be sanctioned; and if an end is ever tube
made of predatory and uncivilized marauding, or of intrigue
aud entanglement by oilier foreign powers, it would seem
wise, as wi 1! as humane, to io it forthwith; or. in the lan
guage of him who has to Wing lived in the hearts of our peo
ple, at the "present golden moment.”
But I am aware chat several objections have been urged
against the Annexation of Texas; and as some of them come
Trout gentlemen long and highly appreciated, and with whom
a d iTerence of opinion on so interesting a topic is much
-gmted.it is due to them and the occasion that I shouM
•plain tny views generally on such ofthese objections as seem
no be most prominent
1. The annexation is opposed by mme, on the ground
that it will make our territory ton large; but experience has
evinced that a representative republic can. with convenience
■and efficiency, extend over limits far wider than from the
Ht. Croix to the Rio del Norte. Indeed, by tlie aid of rail
roaJa and ateam, the Union, with Texas included, wilt be
firr more tccessible in all iu paru, either for business or
Government, than it was at the revolution with only thirteen
(States, aud those all situated on the narrow belt of tbe «as
tern declivity of the Allegbanies. And this objection, if
■teaable, should have been urged, and prevailed, before we
purchased eithei Louisiana nr theFloridas.
3. Tbe Annexation ha* been opposed, as inclining tbe
balance of polities! power in oor system ton much in Uvor
-of the West and South But tbe same course of reasoning
-would strip as of all our great domain on the Pacific Ocean
—a country never to be surrendered while an American
•whaler visit* its waters, or an American emigrant chooses
to fUh, hunt, or plant on tbe banka of the Columbia. It
would aSn. from like apprehensions as to the balance of
•power in the North, prevent any future peaceable annexa
tion of the Canadas. »o ardently contemplated by ourfatltris
•from the commencement of the Revolution; and it would
•heretofore have defeated the purchase of tbe Florida* by
Mr, Monroe, and of Louisiana, including Texas, by Mr.
-Je.Terson : and would not only cast censure on them and
-their venerable coadjutors, for thus deranging the balance
ref pnwer then, but would add reproach on Messrs. Adams
aru Clay for attempting to regain Texas in 1625 and 1827;
and of G.-n. Jackson and Mr. Van Buren for a like attempt
on 1839; and. what ia still worse, by this course of reasoning,
dot seeking, as was done in 1835 oy Gen. Jackson and Mr.
Forsyth, to obtain avast tract of additional country atill
'farther South and IVe-l front the forty second degree of
la-itud* to the thirty seventh, stretching towards tbe setting
aun over that degree across the entire continent. But. in
itrcth, the durable interests of die whole Union, are believed
" to have been looked to on those occasions as new; and the
theoretical balance of power, if adverted to at all, can never
-endanger the practical workings of our system. which will
always he most attractive, strongest, and most flourishing,
where freest—unless liberty ana progress are mere phan
toms of the imagination—and will always proJuce greatest
harmony When less influenced by any sectional jealousies or
local prejudices.
- 3. The Annexation has been deprecated by some as likely
m cause disunion. when its legitimate object is to secure the
great interests and compromises of the Union; and when
such mast be iu consequences, and perpetuate that -Uninn. I
'trust, forever, unless thwarted by a disregaid of plighted
Taith, and by fanatical violations of those solemn ctmprotc-
iiH.
Tils opposed by others oh account or the badness of
some of the reasons assigned for it; as if a good measure
-ought'tn bo rejected because any one may please to urge
eome week reasons for iu By others, because a few of its
advocates are suspected of being interested in lira question;
as if that could impair tho usefulness of the Annexation it
self, ot was not always an incident to almost every question
•of greet magnitude. And by o^bert still, because tbeaus-
, trie ;s under which the measure'it now proposed are dis
liked ; as if the nc easily or value of a gift or.purchase de-
tpended upon tbe character of the agents employ ed.
5. It 'is resisted by many for fra r-*a*ons that elarery ex-
•ista in Texas. That is an institution, to be sure, which moat
people, born at tho North, are. like myself, averse to. -But
•those who respect the Constitution and tho Union remember
that it is an institution whic.li our parent country, before the
Revolution, forced upon both the North ana tbo South;
-which, after Wing mure deeply interwoven through the so
cial and political systems of the la tter, tbe revi <.f the States
did not hesitate to confederate with hr.- in fighting the bat
tles of Itidependrcre; nor to counsel with her heroes, patri
ots, and (talesmen, in forming the present Constitution; nor
to associate with them in carrying out its great, destinies ;
-nor in guaranteeing tbeir property and rights in common
with the rest, then and during the half century since, in
qieace and war, and in weal or-wo.
However deprnstedby many ol us. we know that none
voan legally abolish the institut.on but those who possess it;
and tbit while thia has already- been dons sicce the Revo
lution by nearly hslf nT the old States, it may continue,-tn be
■done by Texas heraelf, as well as others ao-meror later,
when dietr sense of doty and safety-may permit it,-if left
tranquilly to tbsSlItflN oftlttir own rights. What effect
superior state of intelligence, religion, and rights, rather than
by a rash crusade against law and order, aud the public
pea-e. "T** 1
6. The Annexation is disapproved by olheis. because
considered unconstitutional. But as the provision for intro
ducing new State* was altered in its progress- through the
Convention, so as to leave the language broad enough to in
clude territory' without, as wel 1 a* within, our original lim
its; and as the adtnissi <n of Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mis
souri since into the Union, though not embraced within our
old boundaries, besides tbe purchases of Flo ids and Loui-
sia ia as -erritoriea have taken place, this question should be
regarded as offirislly settled in favor of Annexation
In reply to some objections which have been urged a-
gninstthe admission of the whole Territory of any State,
rather than a p: it. and of iu sovereignty, as well as territo
ry, the principles involved ia tlie above decisions and the
language of the Constitution and the precedents ore all
broad enough to include the whole—and they thus accord
with what is the conaiaui usage of other confederacies, both
iu Europe and South America. Nor is any sanction to
auch admission required under our Constitution, and the
principle* of public law, except tbe consent of those ceded
on the one band; and on tbe other, that of Congress, by
proper laws and treaties. And if the people and the inde
pendent Republic of Texas are, for this reason, not as com
potent to unite with ua ent<relv, as they are to cede only a
f >art of their territory, then tlie absurdity w ould seem to fob
ow, that they never -an be competent for admission into
the Union, though recognized by Mexico, and no shadow of
war existing, till they become qualified by abandoning tbeir
independence, repudiating republicanism, and as a servile
dependency or reconqnest of the monarch* of Spain nt
Mexico, be* sold merely as a portion of their Territory to the
United States.
Lastly, this measure is opposed by some from fear that
auch a step will subject us to a wat with Mexico, or some
other foreign power.
But the right of Texas to cede, and the right of the United
Slates to accept, bet territory, ami admit it into the Union,
without producing any'exposure to a just war from any
quarter, is, in my opinion, dear.
In tbe purchase ni Louisiana, we obtained within her lim
its Texas, as certainly at, we obtained ‘ the Island of New
Orleans,'* according is the opinions of such jurist* and dip
lomatists as Jefferson. Madison, Monroe. Livingston, Clay,
and even Adams, in 1818; and. as since developed, of Don
Onis himself, if not of the Spanish Government. But we
have ceded it away by a treaty ratified in 1820, the revolu
tion from that year until 1824 breaking out, and ripening in
all the Spanish provinces west of ns. each acted and made
constitutinns for itself, like ourselves after 1776. as inde
pendent States. Texas and Coahuila making «ne for them
selves, joioe t the Mexican Confeileracy in 1824 as an inde
pendent State; remained faithful to it till dissolved ten
years after by tin usurpations of Santa Anna; refused as
was their right, to anile in his new consolidated Govern
ment, built upon the ruins of the Confederacy; and has re
mained and acted since as she began, an independent sove
reignty. What duty then to Mexico has she violated? Tbe
wrong is on the other side. Where is the justice for Mexi
co now to bo d. or now to rule her ? And moro especially
on the principle* row set up by Mexico, when twelve years
before the latter was recognized by Spain as independent.
Texas bad established her own Constitutmn, and two years
before that efent had separated entirely from the Mexican
Confederacy.
But if this view of the ease should appear in any respect
objectionable, there jp another, which shows the Annexation
to be proper and just
As we purchased Texas in 1803, within tbe limits nl Lou
isiana, and then engaged by treaty to admit her into the
Union "as tojn as possible," consistent with the principles
of the Constitution, and to allow to her inhabitants all the
ightsand immunities of citizens, how could we rid our
selves of that engagt-meut, without first getting the consent
of France, with w horn tbe treaty waa made, or of Texa*,
which was the party more immediately to enjoy those bene
fits ? Yet without asking the consent of either, we unadvis
edly. in 1819, undertook to cede Texas to irpnin. This ces
sion, being without authority, seems in law to have brenim-
perfect or inoperative, and Texas to remain still possessed
of a right, which she now virtually asks, to enter the Union
and to have conferred on her people alltlte privileges which
the original treaty promised. In this aspect of the case, if
we would not violate good faith and the sanctity of trentir*.
we ought to execute the stipulation first made, by now ad-
milting her; and if any injury should result therefrom to
Spain nr Mexico, under the provisions of subsequent trea
ties not being able to be longer fulfilled, the amount < f dam
age ought tu bepaid to thore who suffer, Httl when' it is
recollected tint we have never guarantied the integrity of
t .e territories of eitlrer of them, and the -very defective title,
if any. which either retains over Texas, there could not be
great diffi ulty in estimating this damage
r o ’sr as regards war on this account, the just cause for
nne srrms tube on the part of France or Texas, if we do
mi re-annex the latier, rather than on the part of Mexico if
we do. The solemnity ami inviolability ot the treaty cf
1803 must be quite as great as that uf either 1819, 1828, or
any other more recent.
But. finally, supposing that both these views of the sul-jert
are untenable; ami, for the sake of argument, indulgin'* a
moment in the idea that Texas was not embraced within
the limits of Louisiana, or. if so. was legally ceded to Spain,
and afterward* became an integral part of'die Mexican em
pire-bad sbenot, when the terms of her Confederacy with
that Government became wantonly violated, her citizens
imprisoned, and her privilege* outraged—had she not a
right to assert and maintain ber independence ? Would
she nut bare been false to her American blood, not to have
dune it on the field of San Jacinto, as well a* down to tbe
present moment 1
She has done it. too, in sucb a manner and form, no less
than substance, as in my apprehensi iu justifies other nation*
in treating ber *6 a dejuic as well as a de facto Govern
ment, and competent, under the principleaof popular liberty
and the soundest international law in both hemispheres, to
e«de her Territory or unite her Government to another
without giving just-cause of war to any power.
What are the common sense teats o.i this subject? If
size of territory, she is as big as France, and as large at any
four of our own States. If population, she has one ranging
by different estimates, from two to three hundred tbousan i
people, of all kinds. If a regular constitution of Govern
incut and code of laws, she has both. If a uniform adminis
traiian oVjustice und die rights of conscience secured to all.
rather than tlte protection of tbe Catholic religion alone, as
in Mexico, sl-e enjoys them. She has troops aud ships ol'
war. She has had her Independence acknowledged by tbe
United Slate*, by Great Britain, France, and, indeed, all
tlie great powers of Christendom, nut under the sway of the
llnly Alliance; and the has treaties of commerce and inter
national agents with most of them. Scarce a hot t le font, even
from Mexico, ba* profaned her soil from 1636, when Sants
Anna pnblicly stipulated with liertn eud the war, to 1842.
And the predatory incursions since, in breach cf his solemn
compact, and iu a manner violating the rules of civilized
warfare, have never secured a lodgement within her boun
daries for a single month at a time. Nn towers, raatfe*. nr
counties, have there been held by ber old enemy in dnu.itful
or divifled empire. . Her revolution is not in embryo, but full
grown. Not distracted by. rival cntiMitutions, rival eliief-
t tins, and rival armies, sucb as long desolated many-Span
ish provinces, but domestic I arnmny and pears reign
throughout. Tbeir prisons are not filled wiili political vic
tims. Order, and law, and the .right* of property are re
speeted ; and neither taste, nor education, tier sympathies
of any kind are lingering around their former Government,
and smoothing the way to the remotest thought at reconcilia
tion. Under this condition of things, bow properly have the
United State*, fur-some years, urged on Mexico, that tbe in
dependence of Texas ought to be recognized by her. and no
further hostilities waged / France and England have done
tbe same; aud the latter, since 1840, bas.hound herself, by
a treaty of mediation, to try to procure an abandonment of
be claims of Mexico.
. What fears, then, ought to be entertained, after such ad
vice from suvb nations, oT nirr being involved in any justifia
ble war by means of the Annexation ? But Texas has oth
er qualities aud characteristics nf a nation, showing her
competent to enter into any contract or arrangement with
other nations, as fully astheohlpst pnwer of Europe. Be
sides having been for several years admit ed, in all respect*,
into tbe great family of nations, she is liatlefor her own
wiongs to (hem, and is held so, and not Mexico, as appear*
by ber treaty ofiudemnity to us in 1838. She ie authorized
to seek redress for injuries to herself, and not Mexico for
ber; and she has, in thia way, and by treaties binding her
commerce, limits, soiL und jurisdiction. been mu<-h wider
acknowledged, and longer in tbe independent government of
herself.thau han Buonaparte in France, when he sold Lou
isiana tn us. Such, I admit, was not tbe position of her af
fairs when annexation was proposed and declined in 1-37;
hut tbeir affairs have made great strides sinre. and one un
fortunate mistake, with some, in tbe consideration of this to
pic. appears to be in not reflecting-enough on the changes in
iter relations- and national matumy ami stability, made by
the progress of time and events, during the past seven years
It is manifest, that if a people have. by. sound principle*, a
right to self-Government. and, when oppressed, ran, like
the United Slates, properly revolt from England or Mexico
from Spain, or" Texas from'Mexico. and having deviated
their Independence, do maintain h till-they give, as in this
case, all the usual indications among nations of manhood—
eleven years after? On whit principle<could we'make, or
Mexico receive, the application which would not justify still
stronger the present Annexation of Texas? On what prin
ciple, but this could we apply again to buy. in 1825 and
1829. without obtaining tbo consent or recognition of $paiu
firat ? Bui if some concede that we erred in making our ne
gotiation* in 1625 and 1829, ft by no means follow* that we
err now. On the contrary, now. Texas, as before explain
ed, has been much longer ami wider acknowledged than
Mexico was at tb*t time; has more internal stability and
peace, and ia freer from actual or probable invasion; and ber
independent right* have become rpened fully iutu national
manhood.
But some indulge in apprehensions that, a* a war row ex
ists between Texas end -Mexico, or an armistice exists mi-
expired, we a-e in more danger of becoming involved in ac
tual hostilities. Yet, in 1825, Spain and Mexico were at
war. and tbe former in ac ual possession of the must imp -r-
tanl fortress of the country ; and in 1829 poured her trm p-t
into Mexvo in flagrante hello. And that state of things
was even urged by our Government as an additional induce
nient to Mexico aioncio cede Texas rather than regarding
it. as would seem now. an insuperable obstacle to a proper
cession without the consent of both belligeients. Uifor'u-
nately. also, for the force of this objection, no actual war
now exists betw een Mexico and Texas. Indeed, uo. regu
ar war, of a civilized character, has prevailed theie for the
lastvx years. At times there have been a paper war and
marauding; and. to put an end to the irregular and occa
sional incursions that have sometimes happened during that
„ ,, TT , Mr Clav returned home, and left his friends in a very
WASHINGTON, May 17. J different frame of atiud to what they held before the late
The Senate, yesterday, directed that the injunction of se- demonstralion3 r or Texas. They fear he has reached once
crecy be reniOTed from dll the documents appertaining ‘J.. ^0^* ^he next highest round of the ladder, to be again pre-
the treaty with Texas, the motion to reconsider tbe vote o c ,*pj| a t e d to the ground. “That the hngtr ol Fate is on him
the previous day having been rejected. # now as before. While in Washington, lie was constantly
Th^ mn.munirntirm the instructions wbicli "Cr pacin** the rotunda of the capitol, seemingly ill at ease with
himse'if, and eagerly consulting with hi* friends. There
was an effort made by the more politic Whigs to induce
him to take the collar off' the Senate-thattt might, if u
thought proper, ratify the treaty—and thus regain in part,
the ground be had lost. He deemed, however, that a soeetly
rejection would have the effect of stopping the excitement,
and retainine M-. Von Buren as a candidate against him.
Mr. Van Buren's friends consider n impossible lor him to
withdraw from the ground he has already taken, without
giving proof to the charge so often made against him, ol non-
committalism. and mete popularity hunting. Most of the
Democratic members will, however, go for the party. A
letter from Gen. Jackson, dated the 3d Mny, after B. t.
Butter't vitit to the Hermitase, contains the following ex
tract. I pledge my veracity on its correctness:—“The t-ena-
tor who votes neainsr the treaty is a traitor to the beet inter
ests of our common country, whatever shield lie may take
to hide himself.” Iam only doubtful as to whether tlie
word beat is used or n--t. This letter, written for publica
tion, has been suppressed by the Van Burenites, lowborn
it was addressed, but Dr. Gwtn has gone on to the Hprmtt-
age to obtain a full expression of Gen. Jackson’s opinion,
which will then be giver, to the world.
The Senate commenced yesterday upon the preliminaries
for taking up the treaty—the debate will probably be tegu-
larly continued in secret session. Tappan is desirous the
in unction of secrecy should be removed, so that the pro
ceedings against him may be made public. The proceed
ings against him were, as stated in a previous letter, a se
vere censure—Benton and Allen, who endeavored to come
to the support of their co-conspitator, fairly quailed ^before
the storm they had raised. W. X. Y.
The message communicating the instructions
given to the naval force sent to the Gulf of Mexico, and to
the phrtion of the army which was ordered to the Texan
frontier has just appeared. Tbe following js the Message •
To the Scnolcofthe United, Stoles:
Li answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 13th inst.,
requesting to be informed "whether since the commence
ment of the negotiations which resulted in the treaty “ow
before the Senate, for tlte Annexation of Texas to the Uni
ted State*, nnv military preparation lias been made or or
dered by the President, for or in anticipation of war; and
if so. for what cause, and w^h. whom was such a war ap
prehended, and wbat are the preparations that have been
made or ordered 7 Has any movement or assemblage! or
disposition of any of the military or naval forces of the Uni
ted States been made or ordered with a view to such hostil
ities ? And to communicate to the Senate copies of all or
ders or directions given fm-any such preparation, or f- rany
such movement or disposition, - r for tlie future conduct of
such military or naval forcesI have to inform the Sen
ate that, in consequence of the declaration of Mexico com
municated to this Government, and by me laid before Con
great at the o; enmg of it* present session, announcing the
determination of Mexico to regard as a declaration of war
against her by tlte United States the definitive ratification of
any trratv with Texas annexing the territory of that Repub
lic tu tlte United States, and the hope and belief entertained
by the Executive that the treaty with Texns for that pur
pose would be speedily approved and ratified by the Senate,
it was repaided by the Executive to have become empbati
cally its duty to concentrate in the Gulf of Mexico and its
vicinity, .** a precautionary measure, as large a portion of
the home squadron, under the command of Capt. Conner,
as could well be drawn together; and nt the same lime, tn
assemble at Fort Jesup. on the borders of Texas, as large tr
military force as the demands of the service at other en
period, an armistice has been proposed by Mexico", which m.ntary tore as me uemana* o. me serv.ee « «
thereto, and such as are placed under orders for that desti
been ratified hv Texas. So that the question (whether
may be aided by an armistice which admits n temporary
peace, and in the rase between Holland and Spain lasted
twelve year*, and was surceedeu by a 'durable peace, nr
may be embarrassed by it. a* some suppose, by its imply tag
the existence of a-prevtons war.) is probably free from this
lifflruhy ; and if Texas is taketn by us-now, we take with
her neither an existing war, uor probably any existing ar
mistice.
At the same time. I am free to admit, that, though actual
hostilities an not now exist, and of course will not now be
assumed by us if uniting with Texas, vet Mexico can obsti
njtely persist in claiming her allegiance forever— may re
'use to recognize her independence for centuries, and
threaten everlasting w*r. But before actually r t commen
ring hostilities, she will be likely to look a little tn public
opinion and ber true policy, under all the facts of the case,
and will probably come to the conclusion, that a war, renew-
c I after all the circumstances just recapitulated, can hardly
be deemed a just war, or receive any countenance from the
intelligence and civilization of the rest of the world. It is
ecrtsinly preferable not toenmein collision wilh cny nation
under any pretensions, however ill fi utided, if they ran be
overcome by reasonable remonstrance or friendly solicita
tion. Bat if all these have been exhausted in vain by us
and the leading powers of Europe, to persuade Mexico to
recognize the independence of Texa*. die safety of interna
tional intercourse, and the claims of humanity w 'h compel
the rest of the world to perform their dories to others, and
sustain tbeir own national rights. Atnl if war be threaten
ed, or actually comes, it will be gratifying to reflect that ii
comes wrongfully, and might come so in any other difficulty
—even for the mere acknowledgement of Texian indepen
deuce, as was menaced by Spain in a like case, and by Santa
Anna himself, for still slighter reasons; as. when starting
in 1836 to conquer Texas, he is said t» have threatened that
alterwi.rds lie would plant bis victorious standard on tbe
dome of our Capitol. Hut whatever nation, heeding threats
or exposure to unjust war. is tempted by th* dread of them
to turn aside from the path of doty, humanity, and honor, is
itself unfit to exerctve independent powers, and sLould be
re-annexed to her ancient masters.
I shall not dwell on the reasons against any danger nfwar
from other powers than Mexico, if the Annexation is made.
No other has any pretei.ee to interfere, if inclined to; much
less can we. without shame and depredation, allow auch io
terference, after the declaration by Mr Monroe, in 1623. a-
giinst any new colonization front Europe on ibis continent,
and ill renewal under Mr. Adama’ admnrslralion, and after
sending a delegation tn tbe Congress of Panama, with a
view, among other things, to organize united efforts against
any »nch foreign interferences.
These are my general view* on the top : e* of your inqui
res. But in relation to tbe terms of sny treaty or corrcs
ponden-.-e supp. sed to be now before the Senate. I give nei
titer comment nor opinion; always holding my mind open ic
conviction on all officialqneslinnr. till the time fir final ac
tion. snrl then adopting tlie convictions of my judgment on
the whole ease, unless otherwise insttucted by the State I
feel proud to represent. Respectfully.
LEVI WOODBURY.
To J. H. Rrib. L. D. Lipscomb. J. B. T. Tuonsros. D
jAsrtJt, Esqs.
- From the Globe.
WASHINGTON, May 16,1641.
Silt:—The following letter having been subtnitied to my
•1'spnssl, I ask of you to give it an immediate publication in
your paper. I ant satisfied that you will take pleasure in
complying with this request, that the poblic may be apprised
ot the sentiments of another distinguished Democrat upon
the interesting (object to which tl-.e letter refers. Your
compliance will much oblige yours. Ac.
W. T.-COLQUITT.
Detroit. May io, IS44.
Dear Silt;—Tn answer to your inquiry, whether Iam
favorable to the immediate Annexation of Texa* to the U-
nitrd Slates, I reply that 1 ain. As you demand my opinion
only ol this measure, and briefly the reasons winch influ
ence me. I shall confine myself to thra-t point*.
I ahal! not dwell upon the policy of oniiing coterminous
countries, situated like out* aiul Texas, with nn marked
geographical feature to divide them.' and with navigable
streams penetrating the leiritnrie* of both; uor upon the
common origin of the peope whu inhabit them, upon their
common language, manners, religion, institutions, aad. in
fact, t eir identity as a branch of the Iranian family. Nor
shall 1 urge the material interests involved in the measure,
by the free intercourse it would esicblisb-beiween tbe vari
ous sections of a vast country, mutually deoendent upon, and
supplying one another. These considerations are so obvi
ous. that iney need no elucidation from ii.c
llut. in a military (mint of view. Annexation strike* me as
still more important, and my mind has oejji the more foyci
bly impressed with this idea, from reading the able letter of
Gen. Jackson upon this subject, which has just come under
tny observa ion. With the intuitive sagacity which makes
part of the character of that great man and pure patriot, he
l as foreseen the use which a Eunqieau enemy might make
of Texas, in theevenl of a war with the United Stales. \
lodgementmthata-oumrv wnuMTay open for whole south
western border to bis devastation*. We could establish no
fortress, nor occupy any favorable position.; for the immense
frontier may. in a vast many p-necs. be crossed as readily as
a man passes from one part of his farm to another. The ad
vantage an active enemy would enjoy, under such circum
stances, it requires no sagacity In foretell.
These consideration* re-call to my memory, an article
which made its appearance just before I left Kuro| e in a
leading lory periodical in England, which is understood to !
sneak the sentiments nf a powerful party. This is Frazet ’a
nation, and of troops now assembled upon tho frontier, I re
fer von to the accompanying reports from the Secretaries of
the War and Navy Departments. It will also be perceived
by the Senate by referring tn the order* of the Navy De
partment, which are herewith transmitted, that the naval
officer itt command of the fleet, is directed to cause bis ships
to perform all the duties of a fleet of observation, and tn ap
prise the Executive of any indication of a hostile design
upon Texas, on the part of any nation, pending the deliber
ations of the Senate upon the treaty, with a view that tlte
same should promptly be submitted to Congress, fur its ma
ture deliberation. At the same lime, it is doe to mrself
■hot I should declare it as my opinion, that the United Stairs
having by the treaty of annexation acquired a title to Texas,
which requires onfv the action of the Sena e to perfect it
no Jtlter Power could be .permitted to invade, and.by force
of arms to possess itself of. any portion of the Territory of
Texas, (lending your deldierniioiis upon the treaty, without
placing itself in a hostile attitude to the United States, and
justifying the employment of any military means at our dis
posal to drive back the invasion. At the same time it is
my opinion, that Mexico or any other Power will find in
vour approval of the treaty no just cause of wnr against the
Uuited States; nor do I believe that there is any serious
Inizard of war to be found in the lact of such approval. Ne
venbeless,every proper measure will be resorted to by the
Executive to preserve upon an honorable and just basis the
public peace, by reconciling Mexico, through u liberal
course of policy to the treaty.
JOHN TYLER.
Washington, May 15, 1844.
Correspondence oj the Charleston Courier.
WASHINGTON. May 18.
This is the first Saturday on which the Senate has met,
during this session. The House have adjourned over. The
Senate met with a view to continue the discussion of the
Vnnexaiion treaty. This subject now engrosses much at
tention. The question is upon advising and consenting tn
tbe ratification of tbe treaty. Mr. Benton. I ledru, had the
floor for to day, and was expected to speak two or three
days, against the ratification of tlte treaty. The former de
bates have been very hot. but they were upon some prelimi
nary que-tit.u*. Almost every Senator, it is thought, will
engage in the discussion nf the main question.
The documents relative to the military and naval move-
inr.nis against Mexico, or rather, for ti e detenre of Texas
from any invasion Irian Mexico or Great Britain, have been
placed before the public. 1 hey d in-1 sectn to justify all that
It is been said in regard to their purport. Fmtherdocu
tnrnts have been communicated by (he President to the
Senate in relation to the subject, but the injunction of secre
cy ha* not been removed in regard to them.
It is now said that the number of Senators who writ vote
for the treaty will be fifteen or sixteen, of uourse. it will be
rejected. Mr. T'appan is most vehemently and violently op-,
p sed to it, aud, tor that teasoii, undcitnok to declare it.
He say*, "an effiot was made t» foist it upon tbe country
under a lie," and be fell it his doty to disclose the truth.
Further, he says. 1 1-arn, that the project was treasonable
in his estimation, and he therefore cottsidated himself bound
to evjK'se it
Mr. Archer is against the treaty; Mr. Rives, it is said, is
in favor of die treaty.and wiH probably vote for it, though
of this a doubt ha*.been raised.
It will be found that many Senators, in voting against the
treaty, will disclose themselves in favor <-f Annexation, stib
troth).
The Senate spent nne hour in legislative session, at-d de
voted it chiefly to private bills. The navy pension bill was
considered am! postponed till Tuesday.
At oneos'clock Mr. Benton rose ai d stated that the hour
had arrived for the c- nsideration of the special order, an I
on his motion, the Senate went into executive session. The
session continued till a late hour. It is said that the oppo.
nents of the treaty are anxious to bring the debate to a
close, in lime to permit an adjournment on the 17th of
June, as proposed by the Honse.
Correspondence of the Charleston Mercury.
WASHINGTON. May 18.1644.
The Senate was in legislative session about an hour pre
vious to proceeding to the-consideration of Executive bu*i
ness. A number of private bids from the House was finally
disposed of.
There was a memorial from the citizens nfChambersburg
in Pennsylvania, in iavur of the immediate Annexation of
Texas.
A new Pension Bill was discussed, but laid aside until
Tuesday next.
The denote remained in secret session unt'l a la'e hoar;
it is understood (list Mr. Benton was concluding remarks
commenced yesierday on-the Treaty. I am of opinion that
we shall have his speech in the Globe ere long, without
waiting for the injunction of secrecy tube removed.
The document* sent a day or two aeo to the Senate, by
President Tyler, it is confidently thought, will secure the
raiifi'niintiof the Treaty, unless certain Senators are de
termined that nothing shall be done for the interests of the
country, that deed uot emanate frum tbeir own particular
clique.
By reference to the Madisonian, you will find the letter
of th-- President, in relation to the orders issued -to tome of
the ships of the Home Squadron, and for the rein ral of cer
tain troops to F»rt J-asup. Ynn will perceive there is no
thing to justifv the gratuitous attacks made by the Intelli
gencer and Globe on the President The course pursued
by him was dictated by prudence and foresight, and does
not warrant tbe wicked attempts of these prints to shew that
PEMOC Raty
~ '—'
Magazine; and a more nel.rmu. article never ..sued from , one „ f wjr M eIlc „. TJj( . lilne wi „ be
r 1 ' OU8ht ° b * , r rM M l ' e< *" J r ltcv •- long ere this step will have been proved tohave beeneraro-
ted frwt, one eadrofxrar country to the other o show the , J, nere „ary. The papers now in the archives of the
_ . «° ‘. r f h u » I department to which J alluded yesterday, show ample
cause to jnstify the whole proceeding; and the whole
course of proceeding of the. Executive will brighten as it
that our safety in that mighty contest which ia craning upon
us, is in a knowledge of our danger, and in a determination, *
te p» "7.«"«? «»* 7;'
The *pmt of this anrfc is nunkicntlj* indicated its title,)
which w«f, a war with the United States a blessing to I , ,, , 1 : Z _ T ,
mankind*." 1 .-atm.it sefer to it at this moment, but mutt! TbeGorr«*pondent»f-the True Sun has attracted great
speak of it fromtei-ollection. I have often been surprised «tenli.-n from the political press of alt parties. The smpu-
it has not attracted more attention inourc notry. Its object > ur accuracy of his information and the great sagacity ofhis
was to provoke a war with the United States, and to lay remark* put bun at tbe herd of the \Y asbtngton letter wn-
dr.wn the plan of a campaign, which would smnest bring it tecs. . We know uot who he is the paper to which lie
In (fortunate ronclusion for England.. Thq| basis of this
plan wa« the organization of the ueCessery black face in ibe
West India Islands, and its debarkation upon nur southern
en*»t. Tlie consequences which our enemies fondly hoped
for. in such a rase, but wilh an entire ignoranre of the true
state of the country, were foretold with n rare union of phi-,
lanthropy aud hatred. 1 wish I had 'he number at hand, to
ctril some choice passages fnr your reflection. The result
writesisstrictlvneutial.bat we are inclined to think tlte
correspondent himself leanatowarda the Republican party.
We nre very happy, by the by, to learn of the great success
of the True Suit; tt is oye of our tavorite exchanges, and ia
the cheapest daily paper we knout, its annual subsrripti.m
being ouiy SS-.OO. We quote the last letter of its Wash
ington Correspondent: his information in regard to Mr.
Clay, tallies.with that received by ourself from a frieud in
was to he tbe destruction of the Southern States, tbe tuin or , 'be Metropolis.—Pelcrtbut g Republican
ilia Annexation of Texa* will really have on this.measure, discretion, pnwer, justice, and order, the question nf tbeir
A—•— at:.. I de jure sovereignty thus becomes as clearly settled, in re
spect to all third persons, a* their de facto sorereigiitv.—
The assent or arknnv ledgeinrnt of tbeit old -masters, doe*
not consttturethe right, but-mercly admits it; a* the minors
or apprentices, claiming to be sdui s and free, and acting as
seems to bo doubted by some drit* opponent', among whom
.the inoq distinguished thinks it will a id more free than
kiave States. But however tbit may be, ihefriendsnfAn-
: natation believe that, while a rej- ction oT it must leave tite
-institution of slavery jit-t as it is. without mitigation,tbe ac
depression of tthe others, and the dissolution nf this great
and glorious confederacy, on which the last hopts of free
dom through the world now r ’St.
Whitmore favorable poatti -n could betaken for the oc
cupation of English black troops, and for letting them loose
upon our Southern Gtates, than i» afforded by Texas? In-
cspnble of lesisting in the event of a war between us and
England, she would be taken possession of by tbe latter, un
Correspondence of the N. Y. True Sun.
* ‘ • WASHINGTON. May 15, 1344.
It was commonly remarked by Ntpoleon. of men whose
ability wasconfesseJIy great, but whose undertakings were
invariably unlucky—"that tlte finger of Fate was upon
them." Such men he avoided with a superstitious fear,
lest the contagion might infect him. Mr Clay is a prnmi
eep-jiice of it rann-it add tnthe whole number of slave* row such, derive their riglu%from tbe facts of the case, whether
in Tex** and the United elate* t'-gether; and. if disposing acknowledged or not by those to ivli.-m they were nnee in
that number over a wider space, will gradually tend to make subjection Tlte world must otherwise becnofe divided into
their freedom lets *xpensive and timre easy in sny one
State; ct. if r .r.-antratirg them further South ibao now,
will render voluntary emancipation r.t >re Northwardly still
mere holy ailtqnrrs, wilh all tbeir monopolizing dogmas on
the one hand, and on-tlte other, only a*irh as they consider
mere rebels, pirates, and banditti; breaking up in this way
speedier and safer. Whether tueb con-idetation* have all reform or.r r.-..-ress. and yielding to the clsitn df. tfceri:
prep-'n lcratcd before in overcoming this objection wilh ma- vine right of kinj* over all tbe hatnan rare, till vulumarily
ny of ourmost eminent friend* o; liberty and pbiJanibr-w y. relinquished. The war of opinion on ibisqtiejtinn was set-
1 knaw tint; Imt certain it it. that it did nut prevent Mr. Jef- tied in favor of the pe.ip'e. alter sixty a cars nf desolation and
'frrsnn arid r.:s N 'there Democratic friends from parehssing ctrnage on the plains nf Holland; again at Lexington. Parc-
'Lon-..,;ar.a. im-iu in.g Texts hersdIL in 1803 , r.or Florida togs. Yorktnw n ; affin in Europe, alter deluging France in
from, be.tg bought b\ Me^ra. M-'-nroo s^l Adams in i819; b’o >d ; end again and again on both slopes of tbs Andes, as
cor.Texas again from >■« a negot it -d for by Mesigs. Ad- w-jll as in Mexico i.ersetf. on a basis t.erer again to be sb»-
.jr.s tod City tn ;6i.-5 end i82T ; t.’.d by &<n. Jicksnr and ken ic ti-.o Ne w World. Tho Ancerieer. sice of this quo*.
der one orsnmher of those pretences, which every page of nent man, to whom the same remark may he applied. He
ber hislojy-funtishet. and the territory would become the left Washington highly dissatisfied with tho nflairs. jnd
depot-whence she would carry on her operations against chiefly-with Ins own action on the Texas question. Before
us. snd attempt to add a servile war .to the other calamities leaving, he stated openly iu conversation, that he had been
which hostilities bring with them. He who doubts whether deceived. (Dot intentionally,) and misled by the represents-
thtswnisJd he done, has yet to learn another t'sit in the an ttousof piuttbern'Whig*. who assured hint that the qnestion
nsla of national antipalbv. It would be done,.and be called , possessed n<> strength in the South. Under this impretsion
philanthropy. * i and with their approbation, he wrote his Texas letter, tak-
Every day satisfies me more znd more, that a majority of ing what would be naturally Whig ground, independent of
the American people are in favor of Annexation. Were popular influence, and he now finds that had he taken
they not, the measure ought notto be effected. .But as.they a bold stand for Texas, It,s victory wuttld have heenas-
are. the sooner it is efl’ei-ted the better. I <ln not tooch the -euri-d.
The same applies to Mr. Van Buren. and h is manifest
thst had either ofihese great rivals embraced the popular
side of the question, or could Irave foreseen it* strength,
that erndidnte woold easily have beaten hie opponents.
Politicians of both sides dailv arriving here from Kentucky,
agree in stating that Butler.(Dem.| will be elected in that
State, S' lely on tire strength
the popular Gselii e runs so It
mass meeting, held irrespective
man offered a resolution in favor of the President. The
managers on both sides were frightened, und desired him
to withdraw it, but he continued firm, and it was passed
unanimously, approbating the course of Jnho Tyler. This
was owing solely to the inherent strength of tlte question,
fnr there was not half a duzen Tyler men in the meeting.
It is further estimated that the population of Texas con
tains upward* of two thousand young Kentuckians—of
course they are related in almost every family of the State,
and hence enoiher cause of popular feeling in favor of tn.
nexttion.
details nf the negotiation. That must be left to the respon
sibility of the-Government - as, also, roust the bearing of the
question upon, and its reception by, other countries. These
are points I do nm here enter into.
I am, dear sir, with much regard, trulv revs,
* LEW. CASS.
IIon. E. ABiiniU, Washington, D. C.
Recent n»ws from Ilavti represent that a now Govern
ment had been formed at Cape Haxtien etnhraciny the 'pop.
ulation of the north of the Island- Tire east had been Before
dissevered, and a sort of Government er-i ted at rft. Do
mingo. Even tlte Southern part does nut re tt quietly under
the rule i f Prerident Riviere, and-4ux Cay es is said lobe
in the pnssessioi of« rebel force. The end. it seems likely
wi 1 be the establishment of many petty tribes, after the
manner of-.heir native Alriea, who will take prisoners of
war end rr.-.ke staves of them, and in the course of time
rosy be sb e to supply the Havana market without the
trouble »nd danger of crossing the Atlantic.— Chzr. Merc.
EATONTON. May llth, 1644.
Pursuant to the adjournment nf a previous meeting, a re
spectable portion of the Democrats of the county of Putnam,
met it the Court House, for the purpose of adopting a con
stitution. and n.ore perfectly organizing themselves into an
association. .
On motion, Gen. Rnbt. Blrdsue was requested to act as
Chairman, and J. M. Adams as Secretary.
Win. Turner, Esq., of the Committee appointed at the
previous meeting to draft a constitution, reported tbe follow
ing:
It is no longer left to men who take an interest in public
affairs, to rely on the ordinary methods of conducting them.
The great advantage enjoyed by some, by means of a more
perfect organization, renders more perfect organization t,e
cessary on the part of others.
The* matters in controversy between tbe parties are of
immense importance They involve the doctrines of98-1800;
a strict or a liberal rule of construction; the exercise of
doubtful powers, or of (towers clearly delegated ; the test
questions of bank or no bank, internal improvements, pro
tective tariff, und so on.
We, therefore, whose names are underwritten, acquiesc
ing in tlte necessity which is laid upon us, and in pursuance
of the recommendation of tlte Democratic Convention, here
by form ourselves into an association, to be governed by the
following regulations, to wit:
I. Unwilling to take our name from any living man, or to
lend ourselvea to the elevation or depression of any mere
individual, but-associating on the ground of principle, the
association shall be called. The Democratic Association of
Putnam County.
2 The purpose of the Association shall be to dissemi
nate correct political principles, to promote a strict adher
ence to the Constitution, and to oppose latitudinary con
struction, the exercise of doubtful powera, the protection of
one branch of industry to the injury of another, and so on.
It shall be the purpose of the association to disseminate cor
rect information on all these topics.
3. There shall be a President, a Vice-President, a Re
cording Secretary, a Corresponding Secretary, and a Treas
urer; who shall be chosen every six mondts, who shall dis
charge the usual duties of such officers, and who shall con
tinue in office until successors are elec ted.
4. Iu each'Mtliita District nf the county, there shall be a
Committee of three, having tbe pr,vilege of choosing their
Chairman, a.id the Cltai-man of whom shall be a Vice Pres
ident of the Democratic Association. These Committees
may be appointed by the Association, but the members of
the Democratic party in each district, may in every instance
confirm or reject the appointments, and make new ones.
The business of the Committees shall be to collect and dis
geminate information which may be intereiting to the punlii-,
give notice of the movements of the party, and generally
perform such service as may be calculated to promote the
objects ofibe Association.
5. As soon as may l*e. the nature and object of this Asso-
iation shall be made known by the officers and committees.
in orde' that nil persons so disposed may unite with tbe
Association; but it is recommended that no one be pressed
to do so; and itia distinctly understood that persons suiting
with -.he Association will not only b? at perfect liberty to
act upon their own opinions while they remain members ot
the Association, but that they will be at liberty to withdraw
their, names whenever they think proper to do so.
6. For the purpose of defraying the expenses of the As
sociation, members and others will contribute from time to
lime, such sums as they mny think proper. Monies will be
disbursed by t- e Treasurer under tbe direction of the Asso
ciation, or of the Executive Committee herein designated.
7. The Association wi.l meet monthly in the town of Ea-
tonton, and at such other time and place as it may think
proper.. The meeting* may he public or private, but they
will ordinarily be public, as it is the design of the Associa
tion in tbe use of legitimate means to exert a legitimate in
fluence on the public mi«d. Unwilling a* a body, however,
tu eng ige in alterration, at the same time persons differ
ing from us in opinion w-11, in general, he gladly peimitted
hear our debates. Tbe debates will be confined to Dem
ocrats. In the absence of written ru!ea, which, however,
may be provided by the Association, tlte debates will he
governed by the rules which commonly govern deliberative
bodies.
8. As there may be shades of difference among Demo
crats, it is distinctly understood that the peculiar views of
individuals will not be pressed upon the Association, nor
ill individuals be required to abandon their ((eridiar opin
ions. It is sufficient that the Association stand upon the
broad common ground recognised by the great body ot
Democrats. Members will of coarse be expected to be
Democrats in the main.
9. -Unwilling to rely upon degrading emblems, silly songs,
or inflammatory appeals to the passions and prejudices ol
the people, and disposed to trust to lads and arguments,
w-e will give a decided preference to docutueuts and pro
ceedings which correspond with this feeling.
10. Claiming to be honest ourselves, and fully recognising
the honesty and patriotism of the great b-idy of our oppo
nents, we will'endeavor to maintain friendly intercourse
with those who differ from us iu opinion.
11. The President, tbe Vice President, the Secretaries,
the Treasurer, a d the seven other members to be appointed
by the Association, shall beat Executive Commii'ee. any
five of whom may discharge Such duties as may be assigned
them by the Association, or such other duties a* may prop
erly devolve upon them in carry ug out the designs ol this
Association.
12. Any seven members, including one or more offthe
officers, tnav at auy regular meeting of the Association,
proceed with the business of the Association.
13. The President of tlte As»«ci»lion, or any two other
officers, or any three members, may, on due iiotice, call a
meeting of this Association
14. By-laws not contrary to this constitution may be a-
dopted from time to time by the Association.
15. The Constitution may be amended.by a majority cf
two-thirds nf any quorums that may attend at iwu successive
reeular meetings.
Upon motion nf Jno. Hudson tlte Constitution was unani
mously adopted.
Mr. Hudson moved tbst all the Democrats of the county,
from tbe tact of-iheir being Democrats, should he consider
ed ns members of this body.
Whereupon. Win. Turner, Esq., moved the following**
an amendment to tlte Constitniioti. which was adopted.
16. All the Democrats in the county, whether they sign
the Constitution or not, shall, at their option, be considered
as members of this Association, and entitled to take par: in
all its deliberation* and proceedings.
John B. Trippe, Esq., moved that the Association pro
ceed to elect its officer*.
The Association then went into an election. Gen. Robt.
Bledsoe, was elected President. John Hudson. Vice-Presi
dent, J. M. Adams. Recording Secretary. Natltau Bass
Corresponding Secretary, and D. R Adams, Treasurer.
After various other motions and resolves, the regular
meeting having been gone through with, tlie President polite
ly requested auy persons present, who might do-so, to address
the meetirg.
Wm. Turner. Esq., made remarks at_ length upon the
uncnnstitutinnality nt the bank and tariff, and exhibited in
strong and glaring colors the inconsistency of some of the
Whig leaders of Georgia. His remarks were clear, forci
ble. anti conclusive.
Maj.,David R. Adauij was then railed'for, who, in a very
happy manner showed how the old Troop and State Rights
party bail been seduced by their long cherished principles,
by nmoiti"US and designing party leader*. He alluded to
the fact, very forcibly, that in 1340. they were fai’hlully ad
monished of the danger of. uniting tlteir destinies with the
Wbigpnrty, inasmuch as it would inevitably involve them
i- the abandonment of the old Republican principles, and
bring them into the support of ir.e Federal measures of
Bank. Tariff for j^roteciion, &c. icc. :He showed, from the
present position of things, that they had been already en
trapped, and were row being called on still more to sacri
fice republican principles and southern interests to the love
of party and the ascendency of political aspirants. He
deprecated the abject subserviency with which intelligent
men bowed to the mere dictum nf party lenders, describing
it ns a state of absolute political servitude. He paid a
passing compliment to the Hon. A. H. Chappell, for tlie ele-
vali. n. ability, and integrity of his political character, and
Our CouutiT—our re hole CounlrwT'''
ded. * ***■*»*,
Wo believe it was Sir. John Q u ; ncv ,,
who. on a 4ih of July celebration,
Treaty wills Spain, which cededtnoay djf “ ^
of Texas, without an equivalent, g ave 53'^
" Our Country—our whole Country—and tell' ^
Country."
By superficial observers, this was m-
highly patriotic semiment—hut the closT^J
might have detected io tlie Delphic sent
which since has become so apparent, an( j.
peniy avowed, viz: an uncompromising
to the acquisition of new Territory, or C{| T^
at the South—in fact, to the South
whole country, in Mr. Adams' estimahn^ sj
not to extend South of the Potomac '
We allude to it now, however, merely f cr ,
purpose of giving the sentiment its true reading ^
generally understood at the South, andofjjjl*
it, as amended, as our motto for the future vhp
Our Country—our tchole Country-Text;
Ratification of the Treat*.
The Madisonian, of the I61I1 inst, sayi.wy
withstanding the desperate labors (would that
could say patriotic labors) of the Intelligent 2
opinion stiii prevails among men of f 0BCJ l'*
Washington, that the Treaty of Annexation^
confirmed. We think the friend* of Ar.otmio,
ibtoughom the Union, may relv wiihconEdentto
tlte justice of tbe {Senate. The opinion*
Clay anti Van Boren are merely the opinions
two men, and are not so likely to Uecitie theconw
of the fifty-two Senators, as many may suppose
Tlte friends of the measure may ,t rif *
tangemetus to celebrate its consummation.”
Annexation meetings.
Meetings in Georgia, called for the purpt*.
discussing the propriety of re annexing retain
the United States, crowd upon us so fast, tte hr
hardly room to enumerate them—much !e*
chronicle their proceedings, as requested, f,
hope, however, they will take the will for the deed
—our only regret being, that we have not nun 1
pjblish every thing of interest, pertaining to
momentous question.
The Democratic Convention,
Which met at Newnan, Coweta county, «,i u
16th inst. com|rosed ol Delegates front all the coca
ties of tlie 4th Congressional District, unanio;nt»i
concurred in tlie nomination of Gen. HDGHj.
HARALSON, to represent that District in «
Congress of the United Slates—and of U'iiiui
Samford, Esq. as a candidate for Elector of Pre-j
irient and Vice-President.
The Convention also, Resolved “ That we til
support no man for the Presidency of the UiM
States, in the approaching contest, who is not ii
lavor of tlie immediate and nncomiitions! Acwu-
tion of Texas to this Union.” Want of room pit-
vents any further notice of the proceedings, uisi
time.
A Tyler Reeling
Was held in Heard county, Ga.on the 7thinst.—:s|
which Resolutions, favorable tu the Annexationul
Texas, and of tlie nomination of John Tyler hi
Ptesident, and R. M, Johnson fir Vic--Prcti'c I
were passed. The meeting then adjouruedM&|
first Tuesday in June.
A Texns Meeting
Wns iieal at GritTio, on the 13th insf. by citizi^
of Pike, Dulls, Henry, and Fayette enunties-
wh'ch, spirited resolutions were passed, in&w|
immediate Annexation—among them the two I
low ing 2
Resolved. That immediate Annexation, in the <' i ,' :v:: L
this meeting, is a question paramount to allpartvtnia 1 !
ami that we will, regardless of all atn-h -irsnunelt, 3
fair and honorable n.eans for-the promotion of4kttdjj*l
Resolved, That we cannot give our support tu J 1 * 8 !
date for the Presidency or Vice-Presidency of iheh- t:1, |
at me ensuing elect ion, who is opposed to the in®'-'
Annexation of Texas.
Similar -rneefnigs 'have 'been held, atnl 1
Resolutions passed, in various ciiies, towns**
villages, throughout Ceorgia—which we
gladly-nolice at lengih, if we had lime and sp*^ I
th ot'ibe Texas question, and that c° n eluded by declaring hitnse'f for the immediate Aonexa-
> hi c h no that subject, that nt a late ; «'” n of Texas to the Union; for the men who advocated it ;
ective of party, nn administration i ® nc ] ®If*. “the man and the tnen who were against it.
r 1- A- n—:a..— mi- _ and-which remarks were warm'y applauded by the meeting.
, No other persrns being disposed to address tho Associa
tion. Mr. R. R,. Dejarnatte moved an adjournment to the 2d
Saturday in June.
I)r. M. G. Blauchter moved the proceedings be published
in tbe Constitutionalist, Federal Union, and Macon Tele
graph. ROBT. BLEDSOE, Pres’t.
J. M. Adams, Rcc. Pec.
Knit-Rcnd Convention,
We call the aitcmiun of our ciiizensg 1
to the following notice. They are 100 much is* 1
ested in -every thing relatiog to lb* tr»d« “
Great West, to suffer any movement to be®**
anywise afivcling ihat momentous object, w "
the closest scrutiny. Our rivals are wM* 8 **^
and wc must be so too, ot, Sampson-like. oor
wili.be shorn and our strength have departed-
"We suggest that a meeting of the citite 88 ^^"
ed at.an-early day, to consider the propn= j
sending Delegates to said Conventions
Rnil.Rond Meeting.
The Rail-Road meeting that was called in ^
Ala. tn take place nn the 20th inst..h»shM n 18I
the. 17th of June next—at which time it t* pf*
there will be a numerous iltendance nf there ' ^ -1 _
the subject of internal improvement upon the 4 ' C
leading from Savannah snd Charleston, to -” fr ‘V IB |J \
We would suggest to the Merchants uf those * mbOSP
Augusta and Maunn.iliere could not be * “5“'jfttJtrfP 3
ty offered, 11 extend their acquaintance in
which they may expect to receive tbeir FfT* Visit the •'
business ; and to those wjto are accustomed 1 ^ p.-t*
tering places of Viiginia or New York, , v t t ,x; ■■
memt the Manning Springs. (Sulphur snd t • tii a* m
miles south nf Huntsville, as one ofthe most P y fK k0»
attractive places in the United plater. *lnk ,: J
could there conth ne pleasure and business. t*J
porting our own public resorts, it would, at n
promote social and friendly intercourse
whose political and local interests *re comni ■
Marie.Ha (Go) Helicon ana n
Client Britain r.nd Tc* n *‘ ^ ,
A correspondent of the Richmond
from Washington, (May 16)—“Itissaio^ .
ident sent to the Senate yesterday, * lhl
message, containing the proofs 1*
entent wilh England was on fo 01 ' a J^p'r
had reasons for believing a proposal
ned.if not now ready to be sent, which « ' , <
with a ready acceptance.” * *
McDuffie is said to excel himself m jj„t
tant
rancement
Jays- Walker, Buchanan, Wood bury
The last and rnost c-assic name giv<*n to wood-*awv«r« is- J ^ nWmx of f c
Uuh dividers cf wood ” -J c Q03titute an oratorical phalanx o f-