CHAPTER XVIII.
TREATY OF PEACE.
Firmness of the Mexican Administration — Treaty of Peace Concluded — Skirmishes — Expedition of General Lane — Ratification of the Treaty — Evacuation of Mexico by the American Troops — Reflections — The Territory Acquired — Capacity of our Country for War — Conclusion.
It was difficult for the Mexican nation to make the humiliating acknowledgment, even to themselves, — their Castilian pride revolted at the thought, — that they were compelled to sue for peace; that the eagle of Anahuac, breathing a softer, but more enervating atmosphere, was no match for the prouder and hardier bird of the North. But there was no alternative; the Congress, which had taken a recess shortly after the election of General Anaya as Provisional President, reassembled in January, 1848; and a report was then made, in regard to the condition of the army, and the number of troops necessary for the vigorous prosecution of hostilities. It was found that 65,000 men would be required to carry on the war with any prospect of success. To raise this force was impossible, and, were it otherwise, the republic was without the means to pay them. Her forts and arsenals were in possession of the enemy; her military stores and supplies were nearly exhausted; her resources were rapidly diminishing; and the American commander, backed by his victorious soldiers, was already levying heavy contributions upon
