which, however disagreeable, were unhappily supported by facts, and which had already been most abundantly repaid with in- sult and injury. The acquisition of California, and the^ extension of slavery, afforded motives for war which the pretended causes assigned by Mr. Buchanan failed to supply.
It was not sufficient that Taylor should march to the Rio Grande ; the Secretary tells him, " points opposite Metamoras and Mier, and the vicinity of Laredo, are sug- gested for your conisideration." The object was to pro- voke a colhsion, and, if possible, induce the Mexicans to attack our forces ; and hence the American standard was to be insultingly displayed in the immediate vicinity and in full view of these Mexican towns. It would be hard indeed if our troops, stationed in the suburbs of these three places, did not bring on a quarrel, and thus enable Mr. Polk to announce to Congress that " War existed by the act of Mexico."
General Taylor, in pursuance of orders, commenced his march into the Mexican territory. Not an American, not a Texan was to be