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In addition lo this, it may be proper lo mention, that the Mexicans, ungrateful for the immense aid rendered by our countrymen, and the countenance of our government in recognizing their independence, no sooner conceived themselves safe, than they beaan to indulac in the most grossly illiberal feelings to our country 0 0 d . I and countrymen. The poor Texians were treate m t 1e most shameful manner - their humble remonstrances and petitions were spurned, and the bearers of them cast into prison. Was it in the nature of things for them to submit without a struggle? and is it in the nature of things for their countrymen, their relations and friends, lo view that struggle with indifference, or with folded arms? The events connected with that country have consequently been the result of circumstances unforseen, and unavoidable to them and to us. It is in vain to talk to people of what is reasonable, just, or discreet, when they are in the very midst of the whirlwind. There is no resemblance between this case and that of France, when an attempt was made to involve us in a war, in spite of the existence of the most friendly feelings between the nations so situated in an idle and causeless war, against their wishes and inclinations. I rejoiced at our escape, and so did almost every American, and I should heartily rejoice that we may avoid a war with Mexico; but it is an outrage on common sense to suppose that our individual fellow citizens will stand by and take no part with their friends and relatives, when such atrocities have been witnessed in Texas. Harsh things may be said of them; base motives imputed; and the same might have been imputed to La Fayette and his associates. And if this neutrality of individual Americans were observed, it would be a thousand times more disgraceful to them, than the violation of any treaties or laws. But in my humble opinion, no treaties have been violated, and no laws have been borken. As a government, we have taken as yet no part in the contest; we have proclaimed a neutrality, and we have gone farther than we were bound, or had a right to do, in fortbidding our individual citizens to take a part. I hope no step will be taken by the government to bring on the contest, for it must come soon enough of itself. Mexico says we have stipulated by treaty to respect her territory, and that Texas is a part of it. The reply is, that Texas may once have been hers, but is no longer so. We have seen the Mexican power completely expelled, and an independent government set up in Texas, with complete possession of the whole territory for some months - we have seen Mexico return as an invader, and we have seen that invader repelled with the loss of the chief of her
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