Mirabeau Lamar to Zachary Taylor, February 1847

whole country is being organized
into bands of marauders, who, under
sanction of the Government, are pre-
preparing [sic] to commit depredations
whenever opportunities may offer.
The peaceful citizens, and those dis-
posed to favor the Americans, are
overawed by the threats of the au-
thorities and the presence of armed
men. The trade which was spring-
ing up between this place and
the adjacent towns is entirely sus-
pended.  

            This immediate vicinity is
entirely tranquil, and the utmost
good feeling prevails between our
people and the Mexican population.
The latter seem to be fully impressed
with the benefits they receive from

                                            our [sic]