The Implications of a Changing Landscape in a Tumultuous Time
The article provides updates from Vera Cruz, including the presence of Col. Childs in Jalapa with troops, Gen. Taylor's movements, disbandment of a foreign legion, and the arrival of supplies and personnel. It also details an incident where English officers were mistaken for Americans and taken prisoner by Mexicans, highlighting the tension in the region.
The article titled "FROM VERA CRUZ" offers a firsthand account of military movements and political developments during the U.S.-Mexican War, particularly in late 1847. This period was marked by significant military engagements and fragile governance in Mexico, following the American forces’ successful landing at Vera Cruz earlier that spring.
One of the central figures mentioned is Colonel Childs, who serves as the governor of Jalapa. The article states, “Col. Childs is governor of Jalapa, and will remain there with 2000 picked troops when General Scott moves on to Puebla.” This highlights the strategic importance of Jalapa as a military and logistical center, which was crucial for further campaigns by U.S. forces led by General Winfield Scott. As Scott’s army planned to advance on Puebla, the role of Jalapa became increasingly vital, both as a place of rest and resource replenishment for the troops.
The article also touches upon the broader context of military personnel transitioning and reorganizing. It mentions Major General Shields’ recovery, signaling the toll of the war on American officers: “Gen. Shields is mending, though slowly, and Gen. P. F. Smith has reported for duty.” This reflects the ongoing human cost of the conflict, illustrating how critical injuries affected command structures and the war effort itself.
A significant narrative in the article revolves around a disbanded contingent known as the "Yankee" or "foreign legion," comprised of deserters from American armies. The text states, “The Yankee, or 'foreign legion,' organized by Santa Anna from deserters from our armies, has been disbanded and ordered out of the city.” This indicates not only the internal strife within Mexican ranks but also the complexities of loyalty and morale among soldiers during wartime. The mention of their “immorality and insubordination” implies that these soldiers might have struggled to integrate into the Mexican military structure, reflecting wider cultural and social tensions of the time.
The correspondence also details logistical challenges faced by the American forces. The slow movement of supplies is a critical concern; the article notes that “the long wagon train is now coming into the city from Vera Cruz,” but emphasizes that General Scott could not move forward until “the non-arrival of all the train” was resolved. It reveals the difficulties of maintaining a supply line in hostile environments, which was a common theme in military history, especially in the context of the U.S.-Mexican War.
Additionally, the distressing incident involving British naval officers adds another layer to the interpretation of international relations at that time. The article describes how a party of British officers found themselves captured by Mexican forces, with a commander declaring, “that it was a trick of the Yankees.” This incident encapsulates the war's potential for diplomatic fallout beyond the immediate conflict. While the officers ultimately secured their release, the episode underscores the fragile state of international diplomacy during the conflict, exemplified by the potential consequences of mistaken identity or assumptions about loyalty.
In conclusion, the article provides a snapshot of the complex military, logistical, and international dynamics of the U.S.-Mexican War. The account from Vera Cruz serves to underline not only the operational challenges faced by General Scott's advancing army but also reflects the relationships and tensions between different nationalities and the subtext of cooperation amidst a backdrop of war.
The mid-19th century was a time of profound upheaval in North America, epitomized by the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). This conflict was rooted in themes of national identity, territorial ambition, and political maneuvering—elements that would echo through the years to come. An article from *The Californian* titled "From Vera Cruz," published in 1847, provides a glimpse into the military and political landscape of Mexico during this turbulent period, revealing the intricate dynamics between the United States and its southern neighbor. In this blog post, we will dissect the article's contents, explore the broader historical context, and reflect on how these events continue to shape our understanding of U.S.-Mexico relations today.
Transitioning from Jalapa to General Taylor’s strategic movements reveals the broader ambitions of the U.S. military. Reports of maneuvers toward pivotal cities such as Zacatecas or San Luis Potosi highlight the desire to deepen control over central Mexico. Furthermore, the disbanding of the so-called "Yankee, or 'foreign legion'" by Santa Anna sheds light on the internal strife faced by the Mexican government during wartime. The legion's reputation for "immorality and insubordination" illustrates the challenges in maintaining a united front amid the chaos.
The article also delves into logistical considerations crucial for military success. The arrival of a lengthy wagon train from Vera Cruz, made up of 300 to 400 wagons, emphasizes the importance of supply lines in sustaining operations. The mention of Captain Grayson, described as "the stirring and most popular commissary," personalizes the otherwise faceless machinery of warfare, showing how individual leaders can galvanize troops' morale and ensure efficiency. The logistical hurdles depicted—"carpet bags here, trunks there and boxes elsewhere"—reflect the ongoing challenge for American officers in navigating the complexities of military life.
This incident serves as a lens through which we can examine the larger geopolitical dynamics of the Mexican-American War. It was not merely a bilateral strife but a conflict with critical implications for European powers, particularly Great Britain. The article ominously concludes, "It is not likely that matters will end here, as John Bull does not allow such transactions to pass in silence." This foreshadowing hints at the potential for escalating tensions that would reverberate long after the war's conclusion.
The war solidified the ideology of Manifest Destiny, the belief that the U.S. was divinely ordained to expand across the continent. This notion increasingly influenced American politics and identity, fueling a spirit of nationalism as well as expansionism. Conversely, the conflict from Mexico’s perspective represented a deep-seated loss of territory and national pride, resulting in political instability and regional divisions that would linger for decades. The narrative of loss and resistance shaped Mexican identity, anchoring historical grievances that continue to resonate in U.S.-Mexico relations to this day.
Discussions surrounding immigration, trade, and cross-border cooperation evoke haunting memories of the past. In an era of globalization, themes of territorial disputes resurface in the ongoing discourse surrounding border policies and migration. Moreover, the historical legacy of the Mexican-American War has engendered a keen awareness in both countries of the sensitive nature of their relationship, as lingering grievances and historical narratives continue to affect perceptions and policies.
The lens through which we examine these historical events also influences contemporary conversations surrounding nationalism, identity, and global citizenship. As the importance of borders is constantly reevaluated, the lessons gleaned from the Mexican-American War remind us that history continues to shape our present realities. The article’s mention of British officers being mistaken for Americans serves as a poignant reminder of how historical perceptions can cloud modern attitudes, leading to potential misinterpretations rooted in past conflicts.
These historical currents continue to inform our understanding of cross-border interactions today. In synthesizing the narratives presented in articles like "From Vera Cruz," we create opportunities not only for retrospective analysis but also for proactive dialogues about our shared future. The choices we make today—guided by lessons from history—may pave the way for a more compassionate, understanding, and united North America.
2. **General Winfield Scott's campaign** - This campaign played a crucial role during the war, leading to significant territorial gains for the U.S. For more information, refer to the Military History article on "Winfield Scott's Campaign" at [MilitaryHistory.org](https://militaryhistory.com/the-mexican-american-war/winfield-scott-campaign).
3. **Territorial expansions post-war** - The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo significantly reshaped North America. Learn more from "Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848)" on [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/event/Treaty-of-Guadalupe-Hidalgo).
4. **Manifest Destiny** - This ideological concept drove American expansionism and had lasting impacts on national identity. For further exploration, see the National Park Service’s article "Manifest Destiny" at [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/articles/manifest-destiny.htm).
5. **Geopolitical tensions during the war** - The interactions between Mexico and European powers like Great Britain reveal the complexities of international relations. The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy has an article on "International Relations" that may provide useful insights, which can be found at [plato.stanford.edu](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ir/).
6. **Legacy of the Mexican-American War** - The war's legacy continues to influence U.S.-Mexico relations today. An insightful analysis is available in "Legacies of the Mexican-American War" from [The Atlantic](https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2017/05/mexican-american-war-legacy/524288/).
7. **Cultural narratives and historical grievances** - Understanding how history shapes contemporary identity and politics is essential. For an exploration of this concept, see "Memory, History, and Identity" from [The University of Edinburgh](https://www.ed.ac.uk/iash/whats-on/events/2021/memory-history-and-identity).
8. **Modern U.S.-Mexico relations** - The ongoing dynamics surrounding immigration and trade reflect historical roots. For an overview of current relations, refer to "U.S.-Mexico Relations: Current Issues and Historical Perspectives" on [Council on Foreign Relations](https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/us-mexico-relations).
9. **Cross-border cooperation and historical narratives** - These themes are vital for understanding the contemporary socio-political landscape. For insights, see "Border Studies and Human Rights" in the Context of U.S.-Mexico Relations from [The University of Arizona](https://sbsmajors.arizona.edu/border-studies-and-human-rights).
Each of these topics provides a gateway to deeper understanding and further research into historical and contemporary issues surrounding the U.S.-Mexico relationship.
**Citation**: The Californian
- FROM VERA CRUZ, 1847-12-08
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
Gen. Shields is mending, though slowly, and Gen. P. F. Smith has reported for duty. A letter Irons Mr. Kendall dated at Jalapa on ihe 14th, says : The long wagon train is now coming into the city from Vera Cruz, and hns met with no opposition on the way. There are between three and four hundred wagons and mules in the train -- quite a string you would think were you to see them all together. Capt. Grayson, the stirring and most popular commissary, is along with the train, and I am pleased to learn is going on towards certain halls named after the elder Montezuma. Mr. Trist arrived here this morning from Vera Cruz. His business I do not know, but I suppose he goes on with the army. Gen. Scott, owing to the non-arrival of all the train, will not be able to move for two or three days to come. Capt. Walker, with his Rifles, is on his way up, guarding another smaller train. I trust there may be wagons enough to carry on the little luggage our officers now possess. For want of sufficient transportation heretofore they have been compelled to leave carpet bags here, trunks there and boxes elsewhere until nearly everything has been lost. The Courier's correspondent says : H. B. M. Surveying ship Herald nnd brig Pandora arrived here last week from the Straits of St. Juan de Fuca, having touched at San Francisco, San Diego, Monterey Mazatlan and all the principal harbors on the Mexican coast. At Gulequenio a party of officers of the Herald and Pandora, consisting of the capt. two or three lieut's surgeon, numbering some eight of the principal officers of both ships, together with two boat's crews, went ashore as usual to take observations. On going ashore they were surprised suddenly by a party of some 400 Mexicans and taken prisoners as Americans. It was in vain they declared themselves to be English officers, and it proved equally in vain for them to produce their royal commissions. The Mexican commander declaring "that it was a trick of the Yankees ; they spoke the same language as the Americans and as such they should hang them." He ordered a large hole to be dug under a tree, and politely requested the officers to go with him to view their final resting place, together with the tree on which they were to be hung. The poor tars were also made to understand that their clothing was already portioned among their captors, and that they were to share the same fate as the officers. The officers, however, finally succeeded in raising a doubt in the mind of the Mexican and were permitted to despatch one of their vessels to Acapulco, to the General in command of the Province and on her return they were released. It was useless for them to attempt to escape, as they were informed that the least demonstration made on shipboard in their favor would be the signal for the guard to fire upon them It is not likely that matters will end here, as John Bull does not allow such transactions to pass in silence. ——ooo——
One of the central figures mentioned is Colonel Childs, who serves as the governor of Jalapa. The article states, “Col. Childs is governor of Jalapa, and will remain there with 2000 picked troops when General Scott moves on to Puebla.” This highlights the strategic importance of Jalapa as a military and logistical center, which was crucial for further campaigns by U.S. forces led by General Winfield Scott. As Scott’s army planned to advance on Puebla, the role of Jalapa became increasingly vital, both as a place of rest and resource replenishment for the troops.
The article also touches upon the broader context of military personnel transitioning and reorganizing. It mentions Major General Shields’ recovery, signaling the toll of the war on American officers: “Gen. Shields is mending, though slowly, and Gen. P. F. Smith has reported for duty.” This reflects the ongoing human cost of the conflict, illustrating how critical injuries affected command structures and the war effort itself.
A significant narrative in the article revolves around a disbanded contingent known as the "Yankee" or "foreign legion," comprised of deserters from American armies. The text states, “The Yankee, or 'foreign legion,' organized by Santa Anna from deserters from our armies, has been disbanded and ordered out of the city.” This indicates not only the internal strife within Mexican ranks but also the complexities of loyalty and morale among soldiers during wartime. The mention of their “immorality and insubordination” implies that these soldiers might have struggled to integrate into the Mexican military structure, reflecting wider cultural and social tensions of the time.
The correspondence also details logistical challenges faced by the American forces. The slow movement of supplies is a critical concern; the article notes that “the long wagon train is now coming into the city from Vera Cruz,” but emphasizes that General Scott could not move forward until “the non-arrival of all the train” was resolved. It reveals the difficulties of maintaining a supply line in hostile environments, which was a common theme in military history, especially in the context of the U.S.-Mexican War.
Additionally, the distressing incident involving British naval officers adds another layer to the interpretation of international relations at that time. The article describes how a party of British officers found themselves captured by Mexican forces, with a commander declaring, “that it was a trick of the Yankees.” This incident encapsulates the war's potential for diplomatic fallout beyond the immediate conflict. While the officers ultimately secured their release, the episode underscores the fragile state of international diplomacy during the conflict, exemplified by the potential consequences of mistaken identity or assumptions about loyalty.
In conclusion, the article provides a snapshot of the complex military, logistical, and international dynamics of the U.S.-Mexican War. The account from Vera Cruz serves to underline not only the operational challenges faced by General Scott's advancing army but also reflects the relationships and tensions between different nationalities and the subtext of cooperation amidst a backdrop of war.
From Vera Cruz: The Implications of a Changing Landscape in a Tumultuous Time
The mid-19th century was a time of profound upheaval in North America, epitomized by the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). This conflict was rooted in themes of national identity, territorial ambition, and political maneuvering—elements that would echo through the years to come. An article from *The Californian* titled "From Vera Cruz," published in 1847, provides a glimpse into the military and political landscape of Mexico during this turbulent period, revealing the intricate dynamics between the United States and its southern neighbor. In this blog post, we will dissect the article's contents, explore the broader historical context, and reflect on how these events continue to shape our understanding of U.S.-Mexico relations today.A Snapshot of Military Movements
To understand the state of affairs in Mexico at the time, we begin with the military operations highlighted in the article. Central to this narrative is General Winfield Scott’s campaign, which showcased the organized military presence in newly American-controlled territories. Colonel Childs, stationed as the governor of Jalapa with a contingent of 2,000 troops, represented an attempt to establish order in a region rife with conflict. Jalapa is described as "entirely quiet and orderly," a stark contrast to the chaos prevalent in other parts of Mexico, underscoring the precarious nature of occupation and the efforts of invading forces to instill stability.Transitioning from Jalapa to General Taylor’s strategic movements reveals the broader ambitions of the U.S. military. Reports of maneuvers toward pivotal cities such as Zacatecas or San Luis Potosi highlight the desire to deepen control over central Mexico. Furthermore, the disbanding of the so-called "Yankee, or 'foreign legion'" by Santa Anna sheds light on the internal strife faced by the Mexican government during wartime. The legion's reputation for "immorality and insubordination" illustrates the challenges in maintaining a united front amid the chaos.
The article also delves into logistical considerations crucial for military success. The arrival of a lengthy wagon train from Vera Cruz, made up of 300 to 400 wagons, emphasizes the importance of supply lines in sustaining operations. The mention of Captain Grayson, described as "the stirring and most popular commissary," personalizes the otherwise faceless machinery of warfare, showing how individual leaders can galvanize troops' morale and ensure efficiency. The logistical hurdles depicted—"carpet bags here, trunks there and boxes elsewhere"—reflect the ongoing challenge for American officers in navigating the complexities of military life.
The Complexities of International Relations
But the narrative does not end with military movements; it deepens with the intricacies of international relations. The article reports an incident involving the arrest of British officers by Mexican forces, which complicates the geopolitical landscape of the time. This incident illustrates Mexico's precarious position, caught between viewing the British as potential allies against American encroachment while grappling with their suspicions due to shared language and cultural ties. The Mexican commander's justification for his actions—framing it as a necessary defense against perceived American aggression—magnifies the fragility of diplomacy during this era, where linguistic and cultural similarities did little to guarantee safety.This incident serves as a lens through which we can examine the larger geopolitical dynamics of the Mexican-American War. It was not merely a bilateral strife but a conflict with critical implications for European powers, particularly Great Britain. The article ominously concludes, "It is not likely that matters will end here, as John Bull does not allow such transactions to pass in silence." This foreshadowing hints at the potential for escalating tensions that would reverberate long after the war's conclusion.
The Aftermath and Legacy of the Mexican-American War
Examining the legacies of the Mexican-American War and the events chronicled in the article highlights the far-reaching consequences that followed. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 brought significant territorial expansions for the United States, including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. This redrawing of the North American map had profound implications for American identity, cultural narratives, and the contentious debates over slavery and states' rights that would emerge in the ensuing decades.The war solidified the ideology of Manifest Destiny, the belief that the U.S. was divinely ordained to expand across the continent. This notion increasingly influenced American politics and identity, fueling a spirit of nationalism as well as expansionism. Conversely, the conflict from Mexico’s perspective represented a deep-seated loss of territory and national pride, resulting in political instability and regional divisions that would linger for decades. The narrative of loss and resistance shaped Mexican identity, anchoring historical grievances that continue to resonate in U.S.-Mexico relations to this day.
Modern Echoes of Historical Events
As we reflect on the events captured in the article, we must consider how these historical developments have shaped contemporary U.S.-Mexico relations. While the geopolitical landscape has evolved, deep currents of mistrust and misconceptions still influence interactions between the two nations.Discussions surrounding immigration, trade, and cross-border cooperation evoke haunting memories of the past. In an era of globalization, themes of territorial disputes resurface in the ongoing discourse surrounding border policies and migration. Moreover, the historical legacy of the Mexican-American War has engendered a keen awareness in both countries of the sensitive nature of their relationship, as lingering grievances and historical narratives continue to affect perceptions and policies.
The lens through which we examine these historical events also influences contemporary conversations surrounding nationalism, identity, and global citizenship. As the importance of borders is constantly reevaluated, the lessons gleaned from the Mexican-American War remind us that history continues to shape our present realities. The article’s mention of British officers being mistaken for Americans serves as a poignant reminder of how historical perceptions can cloud modern attitudes, leading to potential misinterpretations rooted in past conflicts.
Conclusion
"From Vera Cruz," as presented in *The Californian*, transcends its role as a mere historical record; it unveils the intricate dynamics of mid-19th century U.S.-Mexico relations. By reflecting on military maneuvers, international relations, and the ensuing legacies of conflict, we gain valuable insights into how past events have contributed to the formation of national identities and territorial ambitions.These historical currents continue to inform our understanding of cross-border interactions today. In synthesizing the narratives presented in articles like "From Vera Cruz," we create opportunities not only for retrospective analysis but also for proactive dialogues about our shared future. The choices we make today—guided by lessons from history—may pave the way for a more compassionate, understanding, and united North America.
Key Phrases:
1. **Mexican-American War** - This conflict was pivotal in shaping U.S.-Mexico relations and national identities. For further reading, see "The Mexican-American War: An Overview" from [History.com](https://www.history.com/topics/mexico/mexican-american-war).2. **General Winfield Scott's campaign** - This campaign played a crucial role during the war, leading to significant territorial gains for the U.S. For more information, refer to the Military History article on "Winfield Scott's Campaign" at [MilitaryHistory.org](https://militaryhistory.com/the-mexican-american-war/winfield-scott-campaign).
3. **Territorial expansions post-war** - The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo significantly reshaped North America. Learn more from "Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848)" on [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/event/Treaty-of-Guadalupe-Hidalgo).
4. **Manifest Destiny** - This ideological concept drove American expansionism and had lasting impacts on national identity. For further exploration, see the National Park Service’s article "Manifest Destiny" at [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/articles/manifest-destiny.htm).
5. **Geopolitical tensions during the war** - The interactions between Mexico and European powers like Great Britain reveal the complexities of international relations. The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy has an article on "International Relations" that may provide useful insights, which can be found at [plato.stanford.edu](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ir/).
6. **Legacy of the Mexican-American War** - The war's legacy continues to influence U.S.-Mexico relations today. An insightful analysis is available in "Legacies of the Mexican-American War" from [The Atlantic](https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2017/05/mexican-american-war-legacy/524288/).
7. **Cultural narratives and historical grievances** - Understanding how history shapes contemporary identity and politics is essential. For an exploration of this concept, see "Memory, History, and Identity" from [The University of Edinburgh](https://www.ed.ac.uk/iash/whats-on/events/2021/memory-history-and-identity).
8. **Modern U.S.-Mexico relations** - The ongoing dynamics surrounding immigration and trade reflect historical roots. For an overview of current relations, refer to "U.S.-Mexico Relations: Current Issues and Historical Perspectives" on [Council on Foreign Relations](https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/us-mexico-relations).
9. **Cross-border cooperation and historical narratives** - These themes are vital for understanding the contemporary socio-political landscape. For insights, see "Border Studies and Human Rights" in the Context of U.S.-Mexico Relations from [The University of Arizona](https://sbsmajors.arizona.edu/border-studies-and-human-rights).
Each of these topics provides a gateway to deeper understanding and further research into historical and contemporary issues surrounding the U.S.-Mexico relationship.
**Citation**: The Californian
- FROM VERA CRUZ, 1847-12-08
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
Original Article:
From Vera Cruz. -- By the late arrivals at New-Or-leans from Vera Cruz, with dates to the 15th ult., the Picayune has the following :-- Col. Childs is governor of Jalapa, and will remain there with 2000 picked troops when General Scott moves on to Puebla. The ci!y of Jalapa is entirely quiet and orderly ; no rows or disturbances have occurred there. We have a paper printed at Puebla on the 9th inst. It announces positively that Gen Taylor had left Saltillo and moved either upon Zacatecas or San Luis Potosi. The Yankee, or "foreign legion," organized by Santa Anna from deserters from our armies, has been disbanded and ordered out of the city. Their immorality and insubordination is assigned for this proceeding. Their manners, the Mexicans say, are not at all adapted to their society.Gen. Shields is mending, though slowly, and Gen. P. F. Smith has reported for duty. A letter Irons Mr. Kendall dated at Jalapa on ihe 14th, says : The long wagon train is now coming into the city from Vera Cruz, and hns met with no opposition on the way. There are between three and four hundred wagons and mules in the train -- quite a string you would think were you to see them all together. Capt. Grayson, the stirring and most popular commissary, is along with the train, and I am pleased to learn is going on towards certain halls named after the elder Montezuma. Mr. Trist arrived here this morning from Vera Cruz. His business I do not know, but I suppose he goes on with the army. Gen. Scott, owing to the non-arrival of all the train, will not be able to move for two or three days to come. Capt. Walker, with his Rifles, is on his way up, guarding another smaller train. I trust there may be wagons enough to carry on the little luggage our officers now possess. For want of sufficient transportation heretofore they have been compelled to leave carpet bags here, trunks there and boxes elsewhere until nearly everything has been lost. The Courier's correspondent says : H. B. M. Surveying ship Herald nnd brig Pandora arrived here last week from the Straits of St. Juan de Fuca, having touched at San Francisco, San Diego, Monterey Mazatlan and all the principal harbors on the Mexican coast. At Gulequenio a party of officers of the Herald and Pandora, consisting of the capt. two or three lieut's surgeon, numbering some eight of the principal officers of both ships, together with two boat's crews, went ashore as usual to take observations. On going ashore they were surprised suddenly by a party of some 400 Mexicans and taken prisoners as Americans. It was in vain they declared themselves to be English officers, and it proved equally in vain for them to produce their royal commissions. The Mexican commander declaring "that it was a trick of the Yankees ; they spoke the same language as the Americans and as such they should hang them." He ordered a large hole to be dug under a tree, and politely requested the officers to go with him to view their final resting place, together with the tree on which they were to be hung. The poor tars were also made to understand that their clothing was already portioned among their captors, and that they were to share the same fate as the officers. The officers, however, finally succeeded in raising a doubt in the mind of the Mexican and were permitted to despatch one of their vessels to Acapulco, to the General in command of the Province and on her return they were released. It was useless for them to attempt to escape, as they were informed that the least demonstration made on shipboard in their favor would be the signal for the guard to fire upon them It is not likely that matters will end here, as John Bull does not allow such transactions to pass in silence. ——ooo——
