By its very attitude the Lamar administration seems to have given some encouragement, whether intentionally or not, to the unofficial participation of Texans in the Federal cause on an individual basis; however, the government could ill-afford to jeopardize Hamilton's negotiations for a loan in London by carrying on offensive war against Mexico and blockading her ports, or to throw stumbling blocks into its efforts to obtain French and English recognition,[84]  or, by a blockade of Mexico ports, to antagonize the United States who had offered its services as mediator in Texan-Mexican affairs, or to defeat the efforts of its secret agent, James Treat, to obtain from Mexico recognition of Texas independence and a satisfactory boundary adjustment, followed, if possible, by a treaty of peace, amity, and commerce.[85]  The government position was not wholeheartedly supported by all citizens. Wrote an opponent of the policy,

When we view the causes of this determination on the part of our Government, we cannot but believe that jealousy and the fear of the advancement of others has prevailed over the more rational opinion of some of the Cabinet and that they as citizens would pursue a course different from that which they as ministers will allow others to do. The paltry excuse or reason for refusing a cooperation with the federal forces at present being the opinion entertained that England and the United States will sooner or later . . . endeavor to effect a compromise between us and the present government or central party of Mexico.[86]