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Rh nations, did not consider of slight importance the crossing of the border by American troops and, while anxious to secure the friendship of the United States, was unwilling to do anything that seemed to cloud what was declared to be a principle of national sovereignty. In taking this position the government received the hearty support of the press. The administration insisted that in the later '70s raids were becoming less frequent. When an instance of violation of American territory by Mexicans was brought to his attention. President Diaz gave complete disavowal and promised prompt investigation, reparation, and punishment. He withdrew to the interior generals toward whom the United States had expressed distrust and whom it appears Diaz himself could not fully control. He sought a similar standard of action from the United States.

But, for the United States, evidences of the Mexican desire to relieve the tense situation on the border were not enough. The Mexican generals who were sent to replace those who had shown themselves in sympathy with border lawlessness were given a cool reception by the Mexican state and local officials and their authority was not recognized. Between October, 1876, and March, 1877, it was reported Indian marauders from Mexico killed 17 men and the arms and horses taken from the