Note 5 — XXXV THE FOREIGN RELATIONS OF THE WAR 1846–1848

Buchanan wished to give a pledge to take no Mexican territory, insisting that unless we should do so, if interrogated, it was “almost certain that both England and France would join with Mexico.” Polk refused, however, to do this, adding that such an inquiry would be “insulting” and would not be answered, and adding also that he would like to obtain a proper territorial indemnity (Polk, Diary, May 13, 1846). Doubtless Buchanan had an eye to his standing with the northern Democrats, who did not wish the area of slavery extended.