Sir, if my advice were asked as to the best mode of terminating this war, I would tell you, instead of indulging in the spirit of aggression and of conquest, infuse a little moderation into your counsels, abate a little of your high and offensive pretensions, show a disposition to preserve, instead of destroying the nationality of Mexico—a disposition to leave to her the integrity of her empire, rather than to dismember it—be satisfied with a reasonable provision for your claims. If this war be a war of indemnity and not of conquest, be satisfied with a reasonable indemnity; say no more about indemnity for the expenses of the war, which you know is altogether beyond her ability; and, above all, show a willingness to relieve her from the presence of your armies, so offensive to her national pride. Place yourselves on this ground, and I will venture my humble prediction that this unfortunate war will soon be ended.

--Mr. Phelps of Vermont, Delegate to the U.S. Senate, January 27, 1848