President Polk’ inaugural address, and the Mexican War

In the Liberator, December 25, 1846 there is this quote from the President’s inaugural, followed by comment by the editor.  From the President:   “…. This accession to our territory has been a bloodless achievement.  No arm of force has been raised to produce this result.  The sword has no part in this victory.  We have not sought to extend our territorial possessions by conquest, or our republican institutions over a reluctant people.  It was deliberate homage of each people, to the great principles of our federative union”.  The editorial response by  Garrison:   “What a bloody commentary upon this boastful declaration is the Mexican War!”