Fort Brown, Texas, March 25, 1860.
I have also to report that Captain Stoneman crossed into Mexico on the 17th with the two cavalry and two ranger companies, and endeavored to surprise Cortinas at the rancho of the Mera, where he was reported by General Garcia to be. He escaped.
Several ranchos which were examined showed indications of his having been there. The troops went as far as Cayetano rancho, 42 miles from the river, and then returned (on the 21st) to our side of the Rio Grande. The operation was conducted with much energy.
Cortinas has left for Burgos, three days’ march from the river, and it is not believed that he will again venture to concentrate a force in the vicinity of the Rio Grande.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Major 1st Infantry, Commanding Brownsville Expedition.
Adjutant General U. S. A., Washington.
Troubles on Texas Frontier, Letter from The Secretary of War (John B. Floyd), Communicating, In compliance with a resolution of the House, information in relation to the troubles on the Texas frontier, May 5, 1860; House Documents, Otherwise Publ. as Executive Documents: 13th Congress, 2d Session-49th Congress, 1st Session, Volume 12
“During the 12 years following the Mexican-American War, there were present on the frontiers of Texas and Mexico many factors that tended to create disturbances. The topography of the country, the sparsity and general character of its population, the lack of an extradition treaty and of sufficient national authority, wild Indians of uncertain abode, the Mexican tariff system, all caused friction and gave encouragement to lawlessness which not only retarded the development of the region but often threatened to interrupt friendly relations between the two republics.” [Border Troubles along the Rio Grande, 1848-1860, The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Vol. 23, No. 2 (OCTOBER, 1919)]