KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN233
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, September 23rd. 1844. My Lord,
In a letter which I had the honor to address to Your Lordship, on the 8th day of May last, I communicated the following information.
“I have heard, and I believe truly, that General Jackson has used all the influence which he possesses with the President of this Republic, as his old political and Military leader, to induce him to aid in accomplishing the Annexation of Texas to the Union.”
That I did not err in giving credit to this Statement will be seen by the enclosed printed Copy234 of a “Private” letter, addressed, on the 16th of February last, by President Houston to General Andrew Jackson. A small portion of this letter appeared some time ago in the Newspapers of the United States. The whole has been recently published in an Administration Journal of Eastern Texas, for the purpose, I believe, of promoting the election to the Presidency of Mr Anson Jones, by showing that the Government of which he is a Member is in favour of Annexation. Eastern Texas contains a large majority of the population, and the bent of the public mind, in regard to the predominant question of the day may be inferred from the motive assigned for this epistolary development.
A lately published letter of Mr Clay's seems to indicate that he has found it necessary to modify his declared opinions on the subject of Annexation. It is impossible that a people so shrewd, so land-loving and so anticipatory, as are the people of the United States, can fail to perceive the advantages that would accrue to them from the acquisition of Texas. The longer the settlement of Texan affairs is delayed, the more fixed and general will be their conviction of these advantages. Whatever professions may be put forth by American Statesmen of the East, or the West, the North, or the South, it ought not to be forgotten that, for forty years, the heads of each party have laboured in turn to extend the South-Western flank of the Republic towards the Rio Grande. It is a Stake worth playing for, and, in the estimation of General Jackson, even at the cost of War.
Representations of the probability of Mexican invasion have brought to this Port the United States Cutter “Woodbury” previously employed in the revenue department, but, at the present, commissioned for service here. The “Woodbury” arrived in Galveston Harbour on the morning of the 20th Instant, and will, it is said, remain until relieved by another vessel. After reporting the Cutter's arrival, a local Newspaper adds: “We also learn that there are two Schooners, a Steamer, and a Sloop of War lying in the Port of Pensacola, expecting daily to receive orders to sail for the Coast of Texas and Mexico.”
It appears by the Texan papers that combinations injurious to the public peace have, under the names of “Regulators” and “Moderators,” disturbed some districts on the North-Eastern frontier. It appears, also, that the authorities have, without difficulty, broken up these Combinations, and I only notice the matter because of the comparatively large Militia force (amounting to above Six hundred men) alleged to have been engaged in their suppression. This force was concentrated at a place called “Shelbyville,” close to the United States boundary line, and distant about two days' March from Fort Jessup.
Had the project of Annexation been favourable to the interests of the traders resident at Corpus Christi, I have good grounds for apprehending that United States' troops would, before this time, have been camped on the Texan territory If I have not been misinformed, it was suggested to the traders that, if they would manage to “get up” a pretext for their presence, they would soon be forthcoming.
I have been told that, after the failure of the Treaty of Annexation in the Senate of the United States' Congress, General Henderson, the Special Minister of this Republic at Washington, recommended President Tyler to take Military possession of Texas. This has been conveyed to me from a usually well-informed source. General Henderson is at present in Eastern Texas, where he resides.
On the 20th Instant, Commodore Moore attended a public dinner in Galveston, in full uniform, from which and the current reports, the fact of his acquittal by the Court Martial may be assumed. The sentence will not be made public until the Meeting of Congress.
The death of General Howard has left this Country without a representative of any Foreign Power. A Mr Barton of Louisiana, is mentioned as the probable successor of the late Chargé d' Affaires of the United States. The “New Orleans Republican”—(an Administration Journal) recommends the selection of Mr Barton for a Mission “the importance of which cannot be underrated by any Citizen of the United States,”—because, “it is peculiarly fit that the Minister who will be called upon to vindicate the rights of this Section of the Union, by watching and frustrating English Abolitionism, should be one identified with Southern interests.”
Although some returns are still wanting from the outlying Counties on Red River, it is admitted on all sides, that Mr Anson Jones has been elected to the Presidency, and by a considerable Majority.—Should the Country again retain its independence, persons supposed to have an early knowledge of these Matters say that General Houston will reappear as a candidate for the Presidential Office, after Mr Jones has served his time. Mr Jones owes his election to Houston's influence, and to the impression, which he has himself countenanced, that he will follow in his (Houston's) footsteps.
The sultry season, which, this year, commenced in May, and of which even the Southern born have complained, as being unusually oppressive, is at an end, and the relaxed European frame derives renewed vigour from the bracing Northern breezes. The earth has been prodigal of its returns to the farmer,—want is a stranger to the resident population, and nothing is required but peace—assured and unshaken peace—to make “the wilderness blossom like the rose.”
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T. P. S. By a letter from Paris. I learn that Mr. Ashbel Smith has announced his intention to return to Texas next Spring.—A Paris paper—“La Siécle”—speculates upon Texas being placed under the “protection” of France, as an arrangement to be desired.—The point has been noticed by a New Orleans paper. September 26th. The Steam Schooner for New Orleans, with characteristic regularity still lingers in Port. About ten days ago, President Houston was on his way from Eastern Texas to the Seat of Government. At the Public Dinner given in Galveston, a few days ago, to Commodore Moore, the Second Toast from the Chair was.—The Annexation of Texas to the United States. George Bancroft, the able historian of the United States, and at present a Candidate for the office of Governor of the State Massachussetts, has published a letter in advocacy of Annexation, which has been warmly applauded by part of the Galveston Press. W. K.
KENNEDY TO ADDINGTON235
Separate. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, September 24th. 1844. Sir,
I have the honor to enclose a letter addressed to His Royal Highness, Prince Albert,236 and sent to me for transmission by M. Bourgeau d' Orvanne,237 who accompanied the Prince of Solms,238 on his visit to this Country.
M. d' Orvanne, has thought proper to offer explanations with regard to certain engagements to which he is a party, which explanations he appears to consider due to Her Majesty's Government.—I, therefore, take leave to submit herewith a Copy of the Communication addressed to me by that gentleman, merely premising that of his arrangements, or affairs, I know nothing beyond the fact that, two or three years ago, he obtained a Conditional grant of land, for Colonizing from the Government of Texas—I had a similar grant—as you Sir, will doubtless remember—but my subsequent appointment as Her Majesty's Consul at Galveston, led me to doubt the expediency of acting upon it. Well acquainted with the jealous disposition of the North American Republicans, and not ignorant that the best intentions afford no sure protection from interested, or malicious misrepresentation, I decided on relinquishing my interest in the grant, which I did,—retaining no share of its advantages, direct or indirect.
Subsequent observation has satisfied me that this decision was the more convenient one for the public service. Mr Clay, in his letter on the Texan question, dated 17th of April last, has declared that he would regard it as the imperative duty of the Government of the United States to prevent, if necessary by an appeal to arms, the Colonizing of Texas by any European Nation. Without presuming to weigh the intrinsic justice, or practical efficacy of this declaration, I could not but perceive that, by a very slight exercise of perverted ingenuity and bold asseveration, an excitable people might be brought to believe that the private enterprize of a foreign Agent had originated in the “Ambitious designs” of the Country to which he belonged.
The never-ending clamour respecting “British influence” and “interferance,” which is heard in this part of the world, must be my apology for travelling into personal details
William Kennedy. Henry U. Addington, Esq. P. S. The Prince of Solms has accompanied President Houston to a place appointed for arranging a Treaty with the Comanche Indians. W. K.
ORVANNE TO KENNEDY239
[Enclosure] Copy. San Antonio de Bexar. 30th. August 1844. Dear Sir.
It is painful to inform you of a fact as unexpected as extraordinary. The German Association forgetting the Conditions of the Contract entered into between themselves and me, which bound us together, has violated the Condition of our joint obligation.
I would not give you this notice, if, in soliciting the favour of the English Government, I had not taken on myself the responsibility of all the acts of the Association. Now, I am compelled to decline this same responsibility
“Signed” A. S. Borgeau d' Orvanne. P. S. Be pleased to forward the enclosed letter to His Royal Highness Prince Albert. [Endorsed.] In Mr Consul Kennedy's letter to Mr. Under Secretary Addington, marked “Separate” and dated Septr 24th. 1844.
KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN240
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, September 30th. 1844. My Lord,
Information has been conveyed, by a private channel, from the Seat of Government, that the Attorney General (Mr Terrell) of whom I wrote to Your Lordship on the 9th Instant, is nominated to succeed Mr Ashbel Smith as Chargé d' Affaires in England; that Major Reilly,241 who represented this Republic in the United States, about two year ago, is to resume his former functions at Washington; and that Mr Ashbel Smith is likely to be elected to fill the Office of Secretary of State, under the newly chosen President, Mr Anson Jones.
Mr Terrell's nomination is considered by those who mention it adverse to Annexation.—He came to Texas from Tennessee, of which State General Houston was at one period Governor.—His understanding is good, his education he owes mainly to himself, and as a public Man he has the reputation of being straightforward and sincere. I first met him in the beginning of the year 1842; and all that I know of his course of Conduct is creditable to his judgment and public spirit.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T. P. S. By the last accounts from the Seat of Government, it appears that President Houston has proceeded towards the Northern frontier, for the purpose of making a Treaty with the Chiefs of the Comanche Indians, long hostile to Texas. W. K.
KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN242
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, October 2d. 1844. My Lord,
The continued delay of the Steam Schooner “Republic” enables me to add this to the Communications of previous dates which I have had the honor to address to Your Lordship.
General Duff Green,243 whose name is known in England as an American advocate of free trade views, arrived at this place late in the evening of the 29th Instant. He left the United States in the War Steamer “Union,” for the purpose of proceeding, by way of Galveston to Vera Cruz, with despatches from his Government to the American Legation in Mexico The “Union” having, it is said, sustained some damage in her Machinery, and the weather being stormy, General Green was landed at Velasco, at the Mouth of the river Brazos, whence he reached Galveston. Soon after his arrival, he arranged for proceeding to Vera Cruz, in the United States Cutter “Woodbury,” which left this Port, with him on board, yesterday afternoon.
On his return from the City of Mexico, General Green is to enter upon the duties of United States Consul at Galveston, to which office he has been appointed. At the date of his leaving Washington, the United States Government were not apprized of the death of General Howard, their late Chargé d' Affaires in Texas.
Persons professing to speak from authority intimate that the Missives of which General Green is the bearer are by no means of a conciliatory character towards Mexico. The payment of the portion of the indemnity owing to the United States will, it is said, be strongly urged, nor will the affairs of Texas be forgotten.
General Duff Green has already tasked his skill as a Newspaper writer in sustaining the pretensions of General Burleson to the Presidency of Texas, and I am disposed to think that his ability as a Journalist, and political Manager have weighed as deeply in his appointment to Galveston, as with his desire, or his qualifications, for the Consular office.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
KENNEDY TO ADDINGTON244
Separate. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston., October 24th 1844. Sir,
In reference to my Despatch marked “Separate,” and dated the 24th Ultimo, I have the honor to inform you that the Prince of Solms, arrived in Galveston on the 12th Instant. It appeared that the account of his having accompanied President Houston to the Indian Treaty Ground, was incorrect. It had been his intention to accompany the President, but the unexpectedly sudden departure of the latter prevented him from carrying his intention into effect. The Prince is still in Galveston, and I only regret that the circumstances of the Country do not enable me to render his stay more agreeable
As I was inclined to anticipate, I find, on conversing with the Prince of Solms, that M. Bourgeois d' Orvanne had no just ground of complaint against the German Association. The facts seem to stand thus: The German Association, desirous to aid emigrants of their Country, arranged with M. Bourgeois d' Orvanne to avail themselves, for this purpose, of his grant of land from the government of Texas. This grant, as I mentioned on the 24th Ultimo, was conditional. To avoid forfeiture, it was requisite that a specified number of families should be placed upon the lands within a specified time, or the grant itself renewed. The Contractor (M. B. de O.) having failed to fulfill either of these conditions, forfeited his grant, and was consequently unable to execute his part of the arrangements between himself and the German Association, who, as the matter presents itself to me, are more “sinned against than sinning”
The Association have arranged to avail themselves of another conditional grant, obtained by a Mr. Fisher, and the Prince of Solms is in expectation of the early arrival of a portion of the German emigrants at Galveston--To plant successfully the first body of European Settlers, in the unpeopled region of the West, will be a difficult undertaking—and I fear that the Association have been somewhat slow to perceive the character of the Measures essential to its success. They have, however, an able and active representative in the Prince of Solms, and it is by no means too late to retrieve the effects of past miscalculation. Their object is every way laudable, and it were a pity that they should not succeed.
William Kennedy Henry U. Addington, Esqr.
ELLIOT TO ABERDEEN245
Separate. Philadelphia October 28th 1844 My Lord,
I have the honor to report that I shall set out to my post between the 7th and 10th Proximo, after having passed a few days with Mr Pakenham at Washington, to which place I am about to proceed on the 1st Proximo.
I take this occasion to mention to Your Lordship that I have received a few private lines from Mr Anson Jones, the Secretary of State in Texas, dated on the 24th September, confirming the accounts of his success in the late Presidential election in that Country.
May I request that any despatches to my address may once more be addressed to the care of Her Majesty's Consul at New Orleans.
Charles Elliot. To The Right Honorable, The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T., Downing Street.
KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN246
No 26. Her Majesty's Consulate Galveston, October 29th. 1844. My Lord,
I have the honor to enclose two copies of a Return of Charges on British Vessels, at the Port of Galveston, in accordance with the terms of Your Lordship's Circular Despatch, dated June 13th 1844, and received by me on the 21st Instant.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
Custom House Charges
Tonnage Duty. Sixty cents per ton, according to registered Tonnage.
Entrance. For every Ship, or Vessel, of less than One Hundred tons burthen—One dollar and a half—For each Ship or Vessel, of one hundred tons and upwards—Two dollars and a half.
Clearance. The same fees as for entrances.
Post Entries. For each post entry, two dollars.
Permits Permit to land goods—twenty Cents; to load goods for exportation, that may be entitled to debenture, or other official certificate—twenty cents.
Any Bond taken officially Forty Cents.
For every document required by any Merchant, owner, or Shipmaster, not before enumerated—Twenty cents.
Pilotage
The rates of Pilotage at Galveston are regulated by Act of Congress:
On all vessels drawing less than eight feet water, Two dollars Fifty Cents per foot—On all vessels drawing eight feet water and more Three dollars per foot.
Pilots detained waiting on vessels, bound for Sea, or vessels prevented from entering Port, by contrary winds, or otherwise, are entitled to Three dollars a day, for each day's detention, after the first four and twenty hours.
Any Pilot taking charge of a vessel in distress, from the loss of anchors, spars or rudder, will be entitled to such compensation, as the Collector of Customs, under the circumstances of the case, may think proper to award.
Any Pilot speaking a vessel inward bound outside the Bar, or a vessel outward bound inside the Bar, and offering his services, will be entitled to full pilotage, whether his services be accepted or not
Any Pilot speaking a vessel inward bound inside the Bar, is entitled, if employed to half pilotage:—if not employed he is entitled to no pilotage.
Any Pilot speaking a vessel fifteen miles from Shore, is entitled to twenty-five per Cent, more than the regular rates of off shore pilotage.
Any vessel after waiting outside the Bar for four hours, with a Signal for a Pilot flying, may enter the Port free from pilotage charges.
Charges under the Galveston incorporation Acts and City Ordi- nances
Passenger Tax. For the purpose of establishing and maintaining a public Hospital, the Mayor and Aldermen of Galveston are empowered to exact from the Master, Owner, or Consignee of any vessel, steam boat, or other craft, arriving from a Foreign Port, the Sum of One dollar for every free White passenger.
Harbour Master. The Harbour Master is entitled to receive one Cent and a half per ton, according to registered tonnage.
Port Wardens. Scale of Port Wardens' Fees: Survey of damaged goods—Five dollars per diem. Survey of hatches—Two dollars. Survey of Stowage—Two dollars. Copying Certificates—One dollar each Copy.
Ten dollars per diem for all services rendered beyond the City limits, with payment of travelling expences.
Vouchers
Vouchers are given for all charges on Shipping at the Port of Galveston.
Coasting Trade
The privilege of the Coasting Trade, with freedom from Tonnage duties, is, by a recent Act of Congress, granted exclusively to vessels bearing the Texan Flag. This is the only advantage possessed by such Vessels over British Ships.
William Kennedy. Galveston October 29th 1844.
KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN248
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, October 30th 1844. My Lord,
In a Communication dated the 2d Inst I had the honor, to inform Your Lordship of the arrival of General Duff Green at Galveston, his appointment as Consul at this Port, and departure for Vera Cruz, in the United States Cutter “Woodbury.” General Green has not returned, nor has a Chargé d' Affaires from the United States yet arrived in Texas to fill the vacancy created by the death of General Howard. Mr Donaldson, a relative of General Jackson, is, according to confident rumor, to fill the Office.
The Annexation papers, in this part of the Country, are censuring the appointment of Judge Terrell as Minister to England, although the appointment has not, up to this time, been publicly announced. They complain that he will misrepresent the popular sentiment in regard to their favourite Measure
President Houston returned to the Seat of Government on the 15th Instant, from the Waco Village, where he met the heads of the Comanche and other Indian Tribes, for the purpose of forming a treaty.—Captain Boon,249 of the United States Army, attended as a Commissioner from his Government. The Texan papers say that a satisfactory Treaty has been concluded between Texas, and the Comanches, with “ten other of the wild Indian Tribes.” The President was to leave the Seat of Government on the 21st Instant, to join his family on the river Trinity
The “Galveston Civilian”.—the Government paper, which is usually considered an authority for official intelligence, states that Lieut. Stevens, of the United States Army, arrived at Washington (Texas) on the 12th Instant, bearing despatches from Washington in the United States, “represented to be of a character favourable to Texas.”
Some of the Texan prisoners released by the Mexican Government have arrived at Galveston.
According to recent accounts from the West, all is quiet on the Rio Grande.—And a Mexican invasion is no longer to be apprehended. The people of the departments bordering upon Texas, are, it is said, much more desirous of Commercial intercourse than War
Mr Anson Jones had a Majority of about fifteen hundred votes over General Burleson, at the late election for the Presidency Until the result of the Presidential election in the United States is known here, there is likely to be a pause in political agitation.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T. P. S. The Brig “Rover” by which I transmitted a letter marked “Private” and dated the 9th Ultimo, was, I find, thirty two days in reaching New Orleans. W. K.
KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN250
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, November 12th. 1844. My Lord,
Major Donaldson, whose probable appointment to the Office of Chargé d' Affaires of the United States in Texas, I mentioned in a Communication which I had the honor to address to Your Lordship on the 30th Ultimo, arrived in Galveston on the 10th instant.—In the hurry of his departure for this Country, he has found it necessary to await the transmission of the documents which usually accompany an Officer of his Class.—At this place, I have had an opportunity of conversing with him, and, so far as that opportunity presented grounds for an opinion, he seemed to be a person, well adapted to promote the main object of his Mission among the people of Texas. His solicitude for “Annexation” is, I understand, quite as lively as might be anticipated from a Nephew of General Andrew Jackson.
The only intelligence that has transpired respecting General Duff Green and his movements, since he sailed from Galveston, is in a paragraph of the “Pensacola Gazette,” which mentions that—“the United States Brig of War “Lawrence,” sailed from Pensacola on the 13th Ulto for Vera Cruz, to await the return of General Duff Green from the City of Mexico, and should he have despatches—to convey him, or them, to any port of the United States which may be designated.”
All the Texan prisoners in Mexico have been liberated with the exception of one—of Mexican origin—and the greater part of them arrived at this Port, from New Orleans, on the 10th Instant.
If my memory deceive me not, during an interview with which I was honored by Your Lordship about two years ago, I adverted to the circumstance of Don Manuel Godoy (el Principe de la Paz251) being resident in Paris, where I understood he subsisted on a small pension, allowed him by His Majesty the King of the French.—It appears by the Spanish Journals, that the exile, in his Seventy Seventh year, has returned to Madrid, and the credit of his restoration is claimed here for M. de Saligny, French Chargé de Affaires in Texas. The matter attracts notice, as it has been alleged that the “Province of Texas,” previous to the year 1804, was ceded to Don Manuel by Charles IV.
President Houston will remain with his family on the Trinity until the last of this Month—about which time Mr. Ashbel Smith, who has been offered the appointment of Secretary of State, is expected to arrive from Europe.
It is said that Her Majesty's Chargé d' Affaires, and the Chargé d' Affairs of France will soon return to their posts. I trust I shall be pardoned for saying that their residence at the Seat of Government, at least during the approaching Legislative Session, will be highly desirable. I am instructed to believe that it had been better, as regards the question of Annexation, if they could have been at Washington, between the close of the Presidential Election and the Meeting of the Texan Congress. Mr Anson Jones, Secretary of State, and President elect, writing to me, on the 2d Instant, observes.—“I am truly sorry your Government have not an accredited Minister here, at this time.”
By a letter from a trust-worthy Correspondent, dated, New Orleans, October 24th, I am informed that,“—large quantities of Military Stores, Waggons, etc., were being forwarded, by the Government of the United States, to the Texan frontier on the Red River.” The writer surmises these preparations—“to be intended to counteract Mexican movements.”
It is a standing assumption of the leading advocates of Annexation that the British Government, in their [ridemtoa; anxiety for peace, will make no determined stand against the Measure.
Mr. Terrell (late Attorney General) whose name, as an opponent of Annexation, I have brought under Your Lordship's Notice, in various Communications,—commencing as early as the 31st of May last,—is at present in Galveston, waiting the departure of the Steamer for New Orleans. He is instructed to proceed as expeditiously as the state of his health will permit, to Europe, where he is to undertake the duties hitherto executed by Mr Ashbel Smith. To what I have already said of him I think it necessary only to add that possessing, as I believe he does, a becoming sense of self respect, he is a modest and unobtrusive Man, and, in harmony with that character, will, I doubt not, feel all the more acutely the gratefulness of the considerate courtesy which Your Lordship, notwithstanding the anomalies of Texan politics, is sure to extend to him.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
ELLIOT TO ABERDEEN252
Separate. Philadelphia, November 13th 1844 My Lord,
Previously to my departure to my post I should mention to Your Lordship that I have recently visited Mr. Pakenham; and pending further Commands I shall of course guide myself in the spirit of the Instructions which he has done me the honor to impart to me. I proceed tomorrow, and I have the honor to be.
Charles Elliot. The Right Honorable, The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
KENNEDY TO ABERDEEN253
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston, December 5th. 1844. My Lord,
On the 28th Ultimo, the United States Schooner “Woodbury” arrived at this Port, from Vera Cruz, having on board General Duff Green, with despatches for the United States Chargé d' Affaires to this Country, and his son, Mr. Benjamin E. Green, Secretary of the American Legation at Mexico, also with despatches for his own Government. The latter left Galveston for New Orleans, by the Steam packet of the 30th ultimo,—the former proceeded, on the 3d Instant, to the Seat of Government at Washington on the Brazos, where he still remains,—having appointed a Vice-Consul to transact his official business at this place.
On his arrival at Galveston, General Duff Green communicated to the local Journals an abstract of Mexican news, including, among other Matters, an announcement that it was the purpose of Mexico—“to exterminate the present inhabitants of Texas, without regard to age, sex, or condition”—for the reason that—“Mexico sees in the conduct of the Governments of Presidents Jackson and Tyler, and the Southern people of the United States, cause to apprehend still further encroachments on its territory.”254
I have learned, from competent sources, that it will not be owing to General Green's endeavours as a peace-maker if events do not justify the alleged apprehensions of Mexico.—He has urged more than one Member of the Texan Congress, during his sojourn at Galveston, to declare for the invasion of Mexico—with the view that further territorial aggrandizement,—(even it is said, Southward and Westward of the Rio Grande),—should accompany the Annexation of Texas to the Confederacy of the North.—Before the “espousals” are perfected, it is desired that the bride should bring a still more ample dowry. Nor does it seem likely that the affianced will be backward in supplying needful aid for the accomplishment of this provident object. A Correspondent on whom I can rely thus addresses me from a locality in the United States favourable to apposite observation.
—“Be assured that no child's play operations are at hand. The present moment demands all the devotion and energy of British Servants in this quarter. The accumulation of Military Stores on your frontier still goes on. And Arms, Ammunition, Camp equipage and Ordnance Stores for ten thousand men have already reached Fort Jessup. Mr Calhoun and his party, or section of a party, would prefer war with England to the non-acquisition of Texas, and, to precipitate that calamity upon the United States, or to commit some iniquitous overt act, from which the pride of the people would be unwilling to recede, is, in my opinion the end and aim of the present Administration.”
The same Correspondent further remarks—“Texas, it is now sufficiently apparent, is the Key to Mexico, and the fall of the latter and its subjugation by these States are talked of here in a way not to be misunderstood by any but those who are too wise in their own conceit to derive instruction from what is passing around them.”
A follower of Mr Calhoun's, General Hamilton, formerly of South Carolina and of some political note, especially as a fervid professor of Free Trade opinions—has published a letter addressed to Mr Webster, in which he sets forth reasons why the New England and Middle States should favour the Annexation of Texas to the Union.—He confines himself to the argumentum ad crumenam, which he winds up by a hint that the South might not be indisposed, in return for Northern concurrence, in its Texan views—to adopt an Anti-European Tariff. In his appeal to the Manufacturing heart of Massachussetts, General Hamilton parades with all the emphasis of typography the vulgar metaphor for unreasoning avarice.”
“After all, Mr Webster” inquires the General—“What, in the vast advent of ages is the privilege to our Government of planting its Custom House in Texas, and hoisting on its flagstaff the Close fist of our American System, and excluding Great Britain from all Competition?”—
The American imagination eagerly anticipates the day, predicted by Humboldt, when the products of European industry should be excluded from this Continent.—It takes at times even a more self-exalting range, and, by means of Settlements on the North Western Shores of the Pacific, dreams of creating a commerical dominion in India and China. I should not be surprised if American Missionaries were to prove as willing instruments of National aggrandizement as the Missionaries of France are apparently expected to be by many of their secular patrons.
A work worthy of the scientific munificence of France, lately published in Paris, seems entitled to particular notice at the present Juncture. The title of the work is “Exploration du Territoire de L' Orégon, de Californies et de la Mer Vermeille”:—it was executed during the Years 1840, 1841 and 1842, by M. Duflot de Mofras,255 an Attaché of the Legation of France in Mexico, and has been published by order of the King, under the auspices of the President of the Council, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Were other evidences wanting, it would indicate that the French Government is not indifferent to the destinies of this Continent, although there are well-informed Americans in this quarter quick to allege that His Majesty the King of the French has declared that there will be no interference, as regards the question of Annexation, on the Part of the Power of which he is the Executive head. M. de Mofras has been so kind as to transmit to me a copy of his work, and I have observed that the Marquesas and Tahiti seem to be laid down on one of his brilliant Charts not merely as convenient touching-points for Whalers, but a “Stepping-Stones” to China.
It appears to me that the question of Annexation will be graduated in its progress by the relations of parties in the United States. It may, on the one hand, be assumed that Mr. Tyler is anxious to draw from it all the political capital it is capable of bringing to an advocate of the Measure,—and, on the other hand, that the Northern Section of the democratic voters for Mr. Polk will be not less anxious to secure that Capital than their own Man and their own party. As Matters now stand, the strength lies with the latter, and the only opening left to Mr Tyler, is apparently some audacious and unexpected Move—Such as war with Mexico—that would produce an embarrassment of affairs, and leave warm work and divided laurels for his successor.
The Polk party, or rather the Jackson party, are in the ascendent here, as well as in the United States,—the New President, Mr Anson Jones, owing his election almost entirely to the support of General Houston. The present United States', Chargé d'Affaires in Texas is General Jackson's Nephew, and the particular friend of Mr Polk.—General Duff Green may be designated the representative of Mr Tyler—while the latter exhorts the Texans to instant invasion of Mexico, the former probably contents himself with concerting Measures of united action between this and the Northern Republic, to be carried into effect after Mr Polk's induction to the Presidential Office, on the 4th of March next.
Major Donaldson (United States Chargé d' Affaires to Texas) arrived at the Seat of Government on the 21st ultimo.—On the 29th he delivered his letter of credence to the Secretary of State, and, on the same day, was presented, in his official capacity, to the (then) President—Complimentary speeches were exchanged on each of these occasions, Generals Jackson and Houston were respectively lauded, and Annexation was insinuated in the language of bland allusion. I quote a sentence from the published reply of Mr Anson Jones—which commands notice from the Speaker's position as President Elect. He refers to the assurances given by Major Donaldson of “the Sincere desire of the President of the United States to improve and render stable the good understanding now existing between the two Republics.”
“The sameness of the origin and interests of the two Countries by which you have so kindly alluded”—(said Mr Jones)—“has led the people of this, on all occasions, to desire the maintenance of the most friendly relations; and if the hope which they have sometimes indulged, that these considerations might lead to the accomplishment of a common destiny, should be disappointed, I trust they will not be lost in their influences upon either Country, in the preservation of those paramount principles which they hold in common keeping.”
The Congress of Texas, called upon by law to assemble on the 2d Instant, was duly organized on the 3d.—The retiring President (Houston) sent in a Message on the 4th, which is chiefly remarkable for the quietude with which it passes by the topic of Annexation. Of this Message I shall have the honor to enclose a copy.
On Monday the 9th Instant Mr Anson Jones is to enter upon the discharge of his duties as President.
Galveston. December 16th.
On the 6th Instant. Her Majesty's Ship “Spartan” Commanded by the Hon. Charles Elliot, appeared off this Port, and on the following day, Her Majesty's Chargé d' Affaires to this Republic, who was on board the “Spartan” came ashore. He remained at Galveston until the 12th, when he left for Washington on the Brazos, which he would probably reach about the 20th Instant. In consequence of the return of Her Majesty's Chargé d' Affaires, this Correspondence, which was commenced by me, under instruction, on the 31st of May last, will terminate with the present letter.
The United States Schooner “Woodbury,” remained in the Harbour until the 11th Instant, on which day a vessel, understood to be the United States Sloop of War “Falmouth,” appeared off the Bar, and made signal to the “Woodbury” to join her, which she did, and the two vessels put out to Sea in company. The Lieutenant in Command of the “Woodbury,” when in port, spoke of Annexation as inevitable, and said that, within two Months, the Castle of San Juan de Ulloa would be occupied by troops of the United States.—I mention this only as an additional indication that President Tyler is for War with Mexico. Mr Tyler's Annual Message has not yet reached Galveston.
On the 14th Instant, a vessel (the second this season) arrived from Bremen, conveying German Emigrants for the Colony which the Prince of Solms is engaged in settling in Western Texas. The emigrants appear to possess the proper requisites for life in the wilds.
Galveston, December 18th
Another vessel, with settlers for the Colony of the German Association, appeared in the Roads on yesterday.
I enclose a copy of the late President's Message, and a copy of the Inaugural Address delivered by President Jones. In neither of these documents is the word “Annexation” to be found.256
There is one aspect of affairs which (if I may presume to offer an opinion) may render Texas too important a point to be lightly regarded in the progress of diplomatic arrangements.—The United States may have gone so far in respect to Annexation as to be unwilling to bear what might be deemed the humiliation of retreat. This possible obstacle to the adoption of more moderate Councils would be removed by the refusal of Texas to negotiate farther for incorporation into the Union.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T. P. S. Galveston Decr. 21st. I have the honor to enclose a copy of President Houston's Farewell Address,257 which has just come to hand. A public Meeting in favour of “Annexation” was held in Matagorda County on the 7th Inst. The “opposition” papers urge other Counties to follow example. Major Donaldson, United States Chargé d' Affaires, arrived here on yesterday from the Seat of Government and leaves today in the Steamer for New Orleans. General Duff Green remains at Washington on the Brazos. W. K.
KENNDDY TO ABERDEEN258
Private. Her Majesty's Consulate Galveston, December 6th. 1844. My Lord,
I have the honor to enclose to Your Lordship a copy of a communication forwarded to me on the 3rd Instant, by the Prince of Solms, at present in this Country, with a copy of my reply to that communication, bearing this day's date.
I have had opportunities of knowing that the Prince of Solms, is an acute observer of passing events, and of recognizing fitness for the arduous enterprize of planting European Settlements in the wastes of Texas.
In despatch No. 21 of this years series, dated 9th September, and addressed to Your Lordship, I bore favourable testimony to the character of German emigration to this Country. Still greater success may be anticipated for that emigration when conducted under the auspices of so respectable and enlightened a body as the German Association represented by the Prince of Solms. Their first company of Colonists, which arrived here lately, from Bremen, in the Ship “John Dethard,” is composed of persons that would be a Valuable acquisition to any Country where extensive tracts of unoccupied land solicit the labours of the husbandman. To the introduction of such Colonists, on however large a scale, no sensible friend of independent Texas would, I conceive, offer any obstacle.
The lands appropriated for the German Colonization lie towards the West, and are exposed to the troubles of that Frontier. For this reason,—and without looking to the very serious contingency alluded to by the Prince of Solms,—it is desirable that the Settlers should be well armed and equipped. In the absence of due provision against aggression, a single Indian inroad might break up the first establishments, and affect disastrously the entire plan of the Association.
The Prince of Solms is in expectation of the early arrival of three additional vessels, bringing emigrants from Germany.
William Kennedy. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
PRINCE OF SOLMS TO KENNEDY259
Copy. On board the Texan Revenue Cutter “Alert,” Galveston Bay, Decr 3d. 1844 Dear and Honoured Sir.
I am hardly on board this vessel and under sail for Matagorda Pass, before I take the pen to express to you the regret I feel that our last conversation, before my hasty departure, could only be so short a one.
The more I think of what General Duff Green, the United States Consul, expressed to me this morning, during the long visit with which he honoured me, the more important I think it, that you, dear Sir, as the only representative of Her Britannick Majesty in this country at the moment, should have every possible knowledge of what at present is going on.
I am too well acquainted with your activity in Her Majesty's Service, to suppose that I can tell you any thing you had not heard and appreciated long before, but I think it always good (in important matters) to hear even the same thing from different people, and in all different ways; you are by that the more able to make some new discovery, or to look at a question on a side you might not have remarked before. Let me then, Dear Sir, give you a report of what General Duff Green was kind enough to communicate to me this morning.
General Green began by praising the enterprize of Colonization which brought me to this country, and even called it a laudable one. This was the first thing that made me infer that the noble General is as true a Yankee as any one living, because I am fully convinced that he wishes me and my good German Emigrants any where else than in this country. He then proceeded with some flattering remarks about my own humble person, which were shot off to make me sure of his good intentions towards me and my native country. The next thing he tried was to get out of me my opinion about “Annexation.”—My answer was that I had heard a great deal about Annexation, and that I really could not tell what might be the result; but that I remembered having heard, before I left Europe, that this could be a case of war between the European power and the United States.—On that point, he told me, I was mistaken, because the United States had received notice from France, that this Power would not interfere at all in the question.—The General now began to speak about the existing state of affairs in Mexico, expressing his belief that Santa Anna was strong enough to overpower the recent attempt at Revolution, but that, whichever party proved victorious, Mexico was pledged to invade Texas,—to make it a desert, and to exterminate the inhabitants, men, women, and children; not even sparing the child in the mother's womb!—As the noble General saw me smiling at the eccentric idea, he stopped to enquire what I believed of this matter. Forbidden, of course, by politeness, from replying—“nothing”!—I contented myself by intimating a modest doubt that such a thing could be done in our days—it being what the French call,—“hors de saison.”—The General, however, assured me that his statements were exactly true, and declared his intention to proceed himself, this day, to Washington on the Brazos, to communicate the same to the gentlemen now assembled in Congress.
General Green next urged me to open a correspondence with the Russian Consul at Matamoros, for the purpose of being always “au fait” of the movements of the Mexican army and fleet. The General must have made extraordinary discoveries, as he gave me even the details of the plan of invasion which Santa Anna will follow, for the purpose of “extrimating” the Texan women and children.—One part of the army is to enter by the Rio Grande, steam-boats, with supplies, following the same along the line of coast; a plan which would leave all the force of this country assembled on their flank. The second part of the Mexican army is to land at Galveston, and proceed, by way of Houston, to the interior. The deduction drawn by General Green from all this is that (the hostile intentions of Mexico being known) Texas ought at once, to take up the game, and carry the war—the sooner the better—into the enemies' Country.
The noble General was now so kind as to ask my opinion on all this. I answered that, under these circumstances, an invasion of Mexico would be a very natural step, but that I did not quite perceive from what source Texas would draw the means to undertake the war. He told me this,—the General said—he was not authorized, but he asked me whether the United States, so closely connected with Texas, would ever permit such a thing as extermination to be carried into effect; if they did permit it; it would throw everlasting shame upon their policy. What (he inquired)—would Germany do in a similar case—would it allow brothers and sons to be exterminated—would I suffer the Emigrants who had come out for me to be treated in this way? The conclusion drawn by General Green was that the war against Mexico ought to begin as early as possible, and that it was his duty to urge the people of this country to it—showing them the prospect that awaited them and their families.
General Green inquired when I should be at Washington on the Brazos,—because he would have further to communicate to me about the defence of Western Texas, as I was going to settle my Emigrants in that part. He was very anxious to get my opinion about the whole of his long talk, which I gave him in the few words that—, in the event of war,—I considered those sums of money which I had already expended, and those which I might expend, up to that time—as utterly lost.
“Well,”—said he—“that is just the impression I wished to take from you, and I beg and request of you to write to your friends in Germany not to be at all alarmed about it, because this war is a necessary crisis—nothing will be lost, and just exactly after the war you will go on the safer.”
—So far the conversation with the noble General, who wanted— “de me tirer les vers par le nez.”
Now, my dear Sir, take the abundant quantity of nonsense and humbug off from this conversation, and what does it amount to?—That General Duff Green who, if I am not mistaken, is on an express Mission to this Country, pushes, and urges, the people of Texas to war, promising every aid of money, or troops, from the United States, for the sake of “Annexation”; for if the United States' troops are once within this territory, they will certainly not leave it voluntarily.—And may not the United States Government deem the present moment of internal difficulties in Mexico favourable for extending the boundaries even beyond the Rio Grande, and securing in this way, the whole trade of the Gulf?— I believe, dear Sir, that with our knowledge of Yankee character and head, we may indeed have reason for apprehension.
I am,—as you, dear Mr Kennedy, know; far from presuming to advise any political measures, but as you also know the especial interest which I feel in the welfare of Her Majesty, Your Most Gracious Queen, and the British Empire, you will excuse me if I ask you to take the following suggestions and observations into particular consideration, and to state, in your next despatches home, what of these you have found worthy of being mentioned.
I believe there is no doubt of the importance of this Country for the trade on the Gulf, and the United States, once in possession of it, will decidely command the whole commerce upon those waters. The Rio Grande as the frontier between the United States and Mexico, will not long prevent the “go-a-head Yankee nation” from trying to possess the rich Mines of Chichuahua, if, as I before observed, the Government of the United States do not consider the present moment the most favourable for making the attempt. Knowing the character of the Americans, and their contempt of every European Power, one cannot be surprised at any mad, or desperate thing that may come on. Whether the design indicated happen in a few months, or in a few years, can it be indifferent to England,—nay to any European Nation?— And if not, how can it be prevented?
It appears to me that there is a very obvious step to be taken,— and that is to fill this Country, and especially the Western part of it, as soon as possible, with a large number of Europeans. And how can this be easily accomplished?—I am disposed to believe that the Association for Protecting German Emigrants in Texas could be of great use in the matter.
Should the enlightened Government of Her Majesty the Queen approve the idea, it would be easy to make some arrangement with the Direction of the said Association, and send, even by the end of next Spring, some twenty, or thirty, thousand individuals, well armed and equipped, to this Country. This number of men could be got in Germany, which suffers from a redundant population, that causes three times the amount to leave their native shore annually for the United States. English and German ships could carry them to this Country,—able and active young officers, of every arm, would accompany them. English arms—(by the testimony of every English officer, who served in the wars of the Peninsula)—were effective weapons in the hands of the German soldiers of the Legion. They would do as well to stop American encroachment towards the South. In fact, this force once established, I may pledge my word for the safety of the future, on this side.
At the present moment, the German Association has a right to introduce as many Emigrants into Texas as they are able to transport, and so large a number, promptly established, who will dare to drive them out? This is the moment for doing it, might it seem so to you—might Her Majesty's Ministers, if you think these ideas worthy of being transmitted to the other side of the Atlantic; see the real truth, and believe what I state from what we daily hear and see.
And so I send you this long letter, and suggest these thoughts to you, my dear Mr Kennedy.—My intentions, in placing all this before you, is a pure one; it is to serve my native country, as well as Great Britain—that noble Empire, always so nearly and faithfully allied with Germany, and, to show my zeal and solicitude for the service of your Most Gracious Queen, on whom may God bestow his richest blessings!
(Signed) Charles Prince of Solms. William Kennedy, Esqr. Her Britannick Majesty's Consul, Galveston. [Endorsed]. No. 1. In Mr Consul Kennedy's despatch marked “Private” of December 6th. 1844.
KENNEDY TO PRINCE OF SOLMS260
[Enclosure.]. Copy. Her Majesty's Consulate. Galveston December 6th. 1844. Dear Prince Charles,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your interesting communication, dated the 3rd Instant.
It will afford me great pleasure to be the medium of submitting the suggestions contained in your letter to the consideration of Her Majesty's Government.—As an officer of that Government, I beg to tender my respectful acknowledgments of the friendly sentiments you have expressed towards the British Crown—Germany and England, as you remark, have always been “nearly and faithfully allied,” and who can doubt the permanence of an alliance whose basis has been, not merely a common interest, but harmony of a national character and reciprocal good faith?
Permit me to add that I very sensibly appreciate your obliging expressions with regard to myself.
William Kennedy. To. H. S. H. Charles Prince of Solms. [Endorsed.] No. 2. In Mr Consul Kennedy's despatch Marked —“Private” of December 6th 1844.
ELLIOT TO ABERDEEN261
No 15. Galveston December 10th. 1844. My Lord,
I have the honour to report my arrival at this place on the 7th Instant in Her Majesty's Ship “Spartan” (sailed on the same day to Vera Cruz) and I shall proceed by the first opportunity to Washington.
The new President Mr. Anson Jones, will have been inaugurated yesterday, and I have no reason to think that there will be any material difference between the language of his communications to Congress, having any reference to annexation, and that of General Houston. The temper and turn of events in that Assembly cannot be spoken of, in the same way. Indeed it must be superfluous to repeat to Your Lordship that the representations and influence of the Government of the United States will have great weight in that quarter, and there can be little doubt that strenuous efforts will continue to be used, to indispose the people of Texas from agreeing to any settlement recommended by the Governments of Her Majesty, and the King of the French.
So far as I can judge the purpose is less to forward immediate annexation, (or at least there is less hope of effecting that result immediately,) than to break up the prospect of any other arrangement, trusting perhaps to quarrels with Mexico, or future Contingencies, for some convenient opportunity of adjusting the question in the only way that adjustment would be agreeable to that section of the Democratic party now in office in the United States.
I may state that in connexion with that view that General Duff Greene (whose name and agency in the annexation agitation have probably already attracted Your Lordship's notice) has recently arrived here from the City of Mexico, on his return to the United States, and I have it confidentially from a reliable source that he has gone up to Washington with earest recommendations to this Government at once to renew vigorous offensive hostilities against Mexico, with proposals of an extensive nature for the further acquisition of territory and schemes for the raising of men and funds, founded upon those acquisitions.
There can be little or no doubt that the Government of Texas will turn aside from any projects of that kind, neither do I believe that they will be made by the Authority of the Government of the United States. But it is possible that these hints of probable difficulties between the United States and Mexico, arising out of the late discussions262 between Mr. Shannon263 and Senor Rejon, and exaggerated statements of the disturbed condition of Mexico, may have a prejudicial effect on the dispositions of Congress here.
Reviewing the whole subject as attentively as I can, and with the limited means of judging comprehensively, open to me, (a circumstance for which I am sure Your Lordship will make full allowance in the case of error or misconception,) I certainly have formed the impression that a very advanced stage of this affair has now been reached. But although the power of effectual interference for the safe and honourable adjustment of this question appears to me to be rapidly passing away from Mexico, I still think that there is yet time and opportunity for decisive and advantageous action from that quarter, and I have availed Myself of the occasion of the “Spartan” to communicate my impressions to Mr Bankhead. If the people of Texas are indeed willing to be annexed to the United States, I see no better mode of meeting that emergency, and none more moderate or more just, than immediate proposals from Mexico adapted to the several contingencies of the safe and durable Independence of Texas, or suitable terms of annexation, or lastly, a secure truce, if this shall not be deemed to be a convenient Moment for permanent arrangement.
If events depended in any considerable degree upon the dispositions of this Government, I should have no serious apprehension of the result; but that is by no means the case, and I believe that Mexico must either shape it's proceedings to meet another state of facts, or resign herself to a combination of a very dangerous character, immediately considered, and probably still more so, in point of ulterior intention.
Charles Elliot. The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
