the august Congress of the nation, as soon as they assemble, to take into consideration all the consequences of the conflict in which we are involved. But if, during this interval the United States should without notice, attack our sea coasts on the Texan frontier, then it will become necessary to repel force by force, and a beginning once made by the invaders, to make fall upon them the immense responsi- bility of disturbing the peace of the world."
It will be observed that in no instanpe is the annexation of Texas cited as an e\idence of the existence of hos- tilities ; but solely the invasion of the Rio Grande, and the acts of General Taylor connected with the invasion.
General Taylor lost no time in prosecuting the war with his utmost energy without waiting for further orders. On the lYth of May, only four days after Congress had de- clared, " that war existed by the act of Mexico," and of course before he had received advices that the war he had commenced had been recognized by either government, General Arista sent a flag of truce to him requesting an armistice for six weeks, giving as a reason, his wish to communicate with his own government. But General Taylor was too Avell acquainted with the designs of his own government to accept a proposition so much in ac- cordance with the dictates of humanity, and which possi^ bly might have led to the restoration of peace. The armistice was rejected ; and the next day he crossed the river and took possession of the city of Metamoras.* In the fierce strife of contending factions, the awful guilt of commencing an offensive and unnecessary war, will be imputed to different parties ; but the punishment due to guilt so enormous will be awarded by a tribunal before which all hearts will be open, and from which no secrets will be hid.
- General Taylor, informing the War Department of his rejection of this proposal, states, that he replied to Arista, " I was receiving large reinforcements and could ^ot now suspend