Goliad resolutions of 1865

Houston Tri-Weekly Telegraph, March 6, 1865

REPORTED FOR THE TELEGRAPH. THE GOLIAD MEETING.

A public meeting was held in the town of Goliad, on the 15th of February, in relation to the questions now agitating the country. John R. Tally, was called to the chair, and H. Canfield appointed secretary. The object being explained, on motion, a committee was appointed to draft resolutions on the subjects in view, consisting of 10 persons, F. FauntLeRoy, J.S. Campbell, A.F. Cox, J.R. Hamilton, J.W. Patton, E.T. Smith, Jas. Cummings, W.H. Jones, A.H. Biscoe, and H. Canfield—to which the chairman was added. The meeting then adjourned until the 18th inst., at which time the following resolutions were reported and unanimously adopted:

Resolved, That the time has arrived when it behooves all men, having the true interests of the country at heart, boldly and plainly to speak out, in the advocacy of correct principles, and in reprehension of those false and pernicious doctrines which are beginning to be publicly avowed.

Resolved, That the discussion of the question, whether it is expedient or politic to abolish Southern slavery, is premature, unwise and unnecessary; and impresses the Northern mind with the belief that we feel unable to sustain the institution. The man who advocates any change in our laws on this subject, is doing more harm to the interests of the Confederate States, than he could accomplish in the ranks of the Federal army. We especially condemn this class of writers.

Resolved, That the prosperity and happiness of our country depend upon our system of slavery; and whether this doctrine be true or not, it is the institution of our choice, not to be wrested from us by any power on earth. We are fighting for the sacred right of making our own laws, as a free and independent people, unaffected by the insolent dictation of other nations; and to yield this right is, so far, to be subjugated, and allow the vandals of the North to be our victors. Rather than submit to such degradation, our people should fight for another term of four years, or by the grace of God, longer if necessary. Let us imitate our revolutionary sires, who, under every discouragement and hardship, fought for seven years rather than pay a paltry tax, imposed on them without their consent.

Resolved, That we reprehend those persons who are taking a pecuniary view of slavery—only counting the cost of the institution—without regarding the principles involved; and who, considering it an obstacle in the way of peace, are in favor of its abolition. Their false calculations and theories mislead and demoralize uninformed and unthinking men. We denounce the Southern abolitionist (who acts contrary to his education, and in the face of right and knowledge) as far more execrable than his Northern brother (who is blinded by fanatical teachings and gross ignorance). At this time men are not to be judged by their antecedents, but by their present opinions and acts. Benedict Arnold, previous to his treason, was a brave and glorious soldier.

Resolved, That is not true, as has been asserted, that the world is opposed to slavery; and in our opinion, foreign powers have been, and will continue to be, wholly governed by what they consider their interests, in relation to our recognition, without reference to the character of our laws or institutions.

Resolved, That the most effective and pointed argument the Confederacy can offer to the Lincoln government, is the bayonet, and the muzzles of our guns. Unmanly and cowardly propositions, and clamors for peace, will only prolong the war. All we need is unity and harmony throughout the country, and continued energy and determination on the part of our brave and war worn soldiers.

Resolved, That we kindly and earnestly appeal to those who are absent from the army without leave, to return promptly to their posts, and discharge their duties as honorable men and faithful soldiers. They have it in their power to cover themselves with glory or with disgrace. Let them shrink with horror from the name of deserter.

Resolved, That we also appeal to those who are not in the army, to act the part of faithful citizens, and do all within their power to aid our sacred cause. The weak and low-spirited should not attempt to influence others. Complaints and expressions of despondency from citizens, are calculated to produce an injurious effect upon the soldiers. Every effort should be made to keep alive and fresh that spirit and ardor which our gallant heroes have so wonderfully displayed on the many fields of the present war.

Resolved, That no language can fully portray the villainy of those, who, living under the protection of the Southern flag, are working, secretly or otherwise, against the government, and whose influence is as poisonous as the asp. They deserved the halter; and the undying scorn of patriots will follow them to the grave, and even hiss into the ears of their children.

Resolved, That we are proud of our noble armies, and have an abiding confidence in our final success, achieved by their valor, in spite of foreign enemies and treachery at home.

Resolved, That the Secretary furnish copies of these proceedings to the Galveston News, Houston Telegraph and Goliad Messenger, for publication, and also request other Texas papers to publish the same.

F. FAUNTLEROY, Chairman of Committee.

The following resolution was offered by D.B. Franklin, and adopted:

Resolved, That while we are not surprised to learn that abolition and traitorous articles are written for the press in Texas (knowing as we do that both traitors and abolitionists are to be found in the State,) yet we are surprised and incensed to see such communications appear in our leading State journals, and that the excuse for publishing them is “to provide for the possible contingency of abolishing slavery in the South.”

The meeting was addressed by several gentlemen, in support of the resolutions.

On motion, the meeting adjourned.

JOHN R. TALLY, Chairman.

H. Canfield, Secretary.