Excerpt from A Complete History of the Mexican War: Its Causes, Conduct, and Consequences; Comprising an Account of the Various Military and Naval Operations, From Its Commencement to the Treaty of Peace

IN relation to the origin of the Mexican War, which now forms an important part of the history of our coun try, public opinion has been divided, and much affected by the political bias of the two leading pmties; so that it is impossible for an impartial chronicler to please both, and difficult even to avoid giving offence to either.

I have therefore reviewed the causes which led to the war between the sister republics, unaffected by any party preferences or prejudices whatever; and after a careful examination of all the points at issue, and the diplomatic action of the two governments, have endea voured at least to arrive at just and candid conclusions.

In the record of the events of the war - which may challenge comparison with the military achievements of any age or nation - I have endeavoured to award to each arm of the service - cavalry, artillery, and infantry, and to our navy - the meed of praise it has so nobly won; and if, in any case, the claims of particular persons may have been overlooked, it is to be hoped that the circum stance will not be attributed to a disposition to do injus tice to any.

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