The Northern Galaxy

TEXAS.

Extract from the Nat. Intelligencer.

Our first objection to the annexation of Texas is, that it cannot be accomplished without involving the country in war; too great a price to pay for any territorial acquisition whatever, which the National honor does not demand.

Our second objection is, that, far from demanding this acquisition, the National honor forbids it. So long as war continues between Mexico and Texas, and a solemn Treaty of Peace and Amity exists between us and Mexico we cannot, without violating the sacred faith of treaties, Mexico still maintains her right. We have, it is true, acknowledged the independence of Texas, as we had a right to do for certain international purposes; but that recognition did not extinguish or in any manner affect the rights of Mexico upon Texas. The obligations of our Treaty with Mexico remain untouched; and Mexico would have the same right to possess herself (if she could) of any State of this Union, as the Government of the United States has to possess herself of Texas.

Our third great objection (which would be conclusive without the preceding) is, that the territory of the United States is already large enough. It is infinitely more important that we should people and improve what we have, than grasp for more, especially when its acquisition would be inevitably attended with discord and dissatisfaction. It is far more important to the happiness of the people of the United States that they should enjoy in peace, contentment, and harmony, what they already have, than that they should place all those blessings at hazard by this new experiment.

Our fourth objection is, that, if the "annexation" of Texas were in other respects desirable, one entire third of this Union at least, forbids the bans, doubts the constitutional right to establish the connexion and declares its determination to resist it. The proposition to annex or incorporate a Foreign Nation in this Union, moreover, is entirely new, and the authority to do it is solemnly questioned. This objection would have much less force had we, in this case, instead of recognizing the independence of Texas, negotiated with Mexico, with or without the consent of the People of Texas, for the acquisition of that territory

We would not, merely to acquire more land, of which we have already more than we want) jeopard the existence of the Union, which ought to be dearer to the heart of every American citizen than any consideration extraneous to it.

Our fifth reason is, that we dread the beginning by the United States of a system of acquisition of foreign territory by conquest, (which, as things stand, the annexation of Texas would effectively be,) or even by purchase. Once begin it, and where will it end? Shall we ever have territory enough for ambition, though we have enough for our wants?

Extract from Mr Webster's Speech

"It is evident, at least, that there must be some boundary, or even some limits to a Republic which is to have a common centre. Free and ardent speculations may lead to the indulgence of an idea, that such a Republic may be extended over a whole hemisphere. On the other hand, minds less sanguine, or more chastened by the examples of history, may fear, that extension often produces weakness, rather than strength; and that political attraction, like other attractions, is less and less powerful, as the parts become more and more distant. In this difference, between ardent calculations, and cautious fears, it seems to me to be the truest wisdom to abide by the present state of things, since that state of things is acknowledged on all hands, to be singularly happy, prosperous and honorable." In all points of view, therefore, in which I can regard the subject, my judgement is decidedly unfavorable to the report of annexing Texas to the United States." "You have a Sparta"—such was the admonition of the ancient prudence—"embellish it!" We have a Republic, gentlemen, of vast extent and unequalled natural advantages; a Republic, full of interest in its origin, its history, its present condition, and its prospects for the future. Instead of aiming to enlarge its boundaries, let us seek, rather to strengthen its union, to draw out its resources, to maintain and improve its institutions of Religion and Liberty, and thus to push it forward in its career of prosperity and glory."