Franklin Pierce: “Who would wish to see Florida still a European colony?”

These results have not been attained without passing through trials and perils, by experience of which, and thus only, nations can harden into manhood.

I shall continue my efforts to procure for the wrongs of our citizens that redress which is indispensable to the continued friendly association of the two Republics.

To us of this generation remains the not less noble task of maintaining and extending the national power.

Unfortunately, it is against the Republic of Mexico, with which it is our special desire to maintain a good understanding, that such complaints are most numerous; and although earnestly urged upon its attention, they have not as yet…