If I do accept, I shall take Mr.Upshur's and Mr.
Nelson's place only on one condition--yes, if I do, here is what _I_ shall say to England regarding Texas.

I shall show her what a Monroe Doctrine is; shall show her that while Texas is small and weak, Texas _and_ this republic are not.

This is what I have drafted as a possible reply.

I shall tell Mr.Pakenham that his chief's avowal of intentions has made it our _imperious duty_, in self-defense, to hasten the annexation of Texas, cost what it may, mean what it may! John Calhoun does not shilly-shally.
"_That_ will be my answer," repeated my chief at last.

Again they looked gravely, each into the other's eye, each knowing what all this might mean.
"Yes, I shall have Texas, as I shall have Oregon, settled before I lay down my arms, Sam Ward.