The state of affairs, however, caused them to think differently; they had already much work upon their hands, and California was very far off.
They hit upon a plan, which, if it showed their weakness, proved their knowledge of Human nature.

While I was building castles in the air, agents from Mexico privately came to Monterey and decided the matter.
They called together the Americans domiciled at Monterey, who were the wealthiest and the most influential of the inhabitants, and asked them what it was that they required from the government?
Diminution of taxes, answered they.

It was agreed.

What next?
Reduction of duty on foreign goods.

Agreed again.