The Liberator

GOV. BRIGGS AND THE MEXICAN WAR.

On our first page, we give an extract from the recent message of Gov. Briggs to the Legislature of Massachusetts, which embraces all that he says respecting the iniquitous war with Mexico. Of course, we heartily endorse his sentiments on this subject; but we think they strikingly illustrate the glaring inconsistency of his conduct. 'Actions speak louder than words,' is a time-worn proverb. His words in the message are—

'And that Supreme Ruler of the world and searcher of hearts, to whom they appealed for the rectitude of their intentions and for the justice of their cause, will hold this people responsible for all the misery, blood and guilt of this war, which they might have prevented, or which they may now prevent, by observing, in their conduct towards Mexico, that divine rule of action binding alike upon individuals and upon nations, doing unto others as we would that others should do unto us.'

Certainly, this is an emphatic condemnation of the war as a wicked one, and also of the American people for their participation in it, who are to be held responsible for 'all the misery, blood and guilt of this war.' Well—what did Gov. Briggs say and advise, in regard to this same war, soon after its declaration, on a mere request (mark! not an order) of the Secretary of War to cause to be enrolled and held in readiness, in Massachusetts, for muster into the service of the United States, ONE REGIMENT OF INFANTRY? Here is an extract from his Proclamation— Whatever may be the difference of opinion as to the origin or necessity of the war, the constitutional authorities of the country have declared that a war with a foreign country actually exists. * * I call upon the citizen soldiers of Massachusetts at once to enrol themselves in sufficient numbers to meet the request of the President of the United States, and to hold themselves in readiness to be mustered into the service of the republic when the exigencies of the country shall require it.'

We trust that Gov. Briggs has sincerely repented of the folly and wickedness of his course, in raising troops for the war in the manner described.