Mexican Military Commander
Requests Armistice

BEFORE WORD OF THE FAILURE of Webb's mission reached the Texan authorities, an unexpected overture for the cessation of hostilities came from the commander of the northern frontier of Mexico. A week after the issuance of his proclamation against engaging in illicit trade with the Texans, General Arista, reputedly a man of wealth and the owner of a great deal of land in northern Mexico,[1]  addressed a letter to "Mr. Mirabeau Lamar," requesting an armistice to enable him to conduct a war against the Comanches which might entail crossing into Texan territory. "In that spirit of confidence, usual amongst men of honour," wrote Arista, "I address you this communication, which will be handed you by Dr. Rafael Uribe."

The Indians ferocious and sanguinary and perfectly faithless[2]  should be driven beyond the bounds of civilization, and to effect this, a force will soon move from the banks of the Río Bravo.

At the present time War should be carried on, with a frankness and gentlemanly generosity, compatible with the customs and civilizations, to which fortunately both men and Nations have arrived in this age.

Therefore, in accordance with these maxims, I make known to you, with the frankness of a soldier, and with that noble conduct, which should govern all hostilities that the expedition has not in view, as might be supposed, a surprise upon those Colonies, but simply to chastise the ferocious enemies of humanity. This expedition will not commit any acts, which injure any of the inhabitants or citizens of the country, through which it may pass.

This communication must only be interpreted as a manifestation of the anxiety I entertain, for the success of the campaign against the Indians; and not as a suspension of hostilities between us.

Our difficulties, originating, since those colonies declared their pretensions