CHAPTER XVII.
On December 9th, 1844, the second term of the administration of Gen. Sam Houston closed. His valedictory, like all other papers and addresses emanating from his pen and tongue, ranks him among the first statesmen and patriots of the world. Texas was prosperous. Certain formalities, hereafter to be indicated, only were necessary to introduce her to the sisterhood of the United States. He anticipated the pleasure of retiring to domestic life, only to be disappointed by the call of his countrymen for further and long-protracted services. The following document places his administration in its true light before the world:
"Senate Chamber, December 9, 1844.
"To His Excellency, Sam Houston, President.
"Sir: I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency the following Resolutions, introduced by the Hon. David S. Kaufman, Senator from the District of Shelby, Sabine, and Harrison, and passed by the Senate.
"1st. Resolved by the Senate, That the Administration of President Houston, which this day terminates, has been characterized by a forecast, economy, and ability, which entitle it to the thanks and gratitude of the Nation.
"2d. Resolved, That as the Constitutional advisers of the President, we have undiminished confidence in the unbending integrity and devoted patriotism of Gen. Sam Houston, and he carries with him into retirement, our warm wishes for his health and happiness.
"3d. Resolved, That the Secretary furnish Gen. Houston with a copy of these Resolutions.
" With great respect,
"Henry J. Jenet,
"Secretary of the Senate."
The history of the Republic of Texas, the history of the two administrations of President Houston, the personal history of General Houston himself, would be incomplete, would not be clearly intel-
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