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painful.
    â€œThen I shall take them by cannon and musket,” Scott said icily. “And I shall assume no responsibility for the damage done to anything in the city.”
    Giffard’s scowl deepened and he pinched his lower lip as he struggled to hold back a sharp retort. He caught his emotions and his face became a mask. He removed a large folded paper from a pocket and spread it on the table in front of Scott. “I took note of your comments about stray cannon balls. In anticipation of the invasion going forward, I had this map of Veracruz prepared to assist you in avoiding British property during the battle.” With finger pointing at the map, he said. “This is our Consulate, and these are our warehouses, and this is a store house for some of Captain Matson’s naval supplies. All of the areas in red are British owned. These other areas in color and labeled are the Consulates of the other neutral nations.”
    Lee leaned forward to better see the Britisher’s map. It was drawn to scale and quite plainly the work of a skilled engineer. The American’s best map of Veracruz was one prepared by the Spanish in 1818. This one would be extremely valuable in sighting targets within the city.
    Giffard straightened in his chair and focused on Scott. ”The map is for your use so you can avoid our property with your cannon fire.” He paused. “Since you have a firm plan to invade, when will it occur? If I may ask?”
    â€œYou may ask,” replied Scott. His mouth closed like a trap and his eyes shot an accusatory look at Giffard, as if to say, that question was out of order.
    Giffard spoke hastily. “General, I only ask because there are British nationals who plan to move their portable valuables to Commodore Matson’s ships, and to British merchant vessels. And the other nationals to their ships in the harbor. I merely wondered how much time they had to do that. And to further request that you don’t attempt to stop them.”
    â€œIf I should attempt to stop such activity, then I would succeed,” Scott said matter-of-factly.
    Lee suppressed a smile. General Scott was here with an army and most of the American navy and spoiling for a fight. So that the British wouldn’t cause trouble, he was putting them in their place early in the campaign.
    Scott added in a conciliatory tone. “All neutrals may continue to come and go to the ships, or go inland if they desire. Mexican citizens may do likewise. We have no quarrel with either.”
    He smiled ruefully. “In fact, I would suggest that when you have your discussions with the Mexican officials that you tell them that all people, including the Mexican soldiers should leave both the city and the fort. Anything you can do to encourage them to do so would be to their welfare.”
    â€œRegarding Ulua,” Giffard said, his attitude and words were much subdued. “I’ve been in the Fort and I don’t believe a sea attack could capture it. I believe Captain Matson would agree with me that its many huge cannon could sink the greatest number of warships.” He spook to Commodore Conner. “Sir, I say this with no intention to belittle your fleet.”
    â€œNo offense taken,” Conner replied. “It’s a strong fortification.”
    â€œCounsel Giffard, how many civilians in Veracruz?” Scott asks.
    â€œMany people have left to seek safety away from the city. I estimate that there are between six and seven thousand people remaining.”
    â€œAnd how many soldiers?”
    Lee felt the total silence as every American in the room waited for Giffard’s response. How he answered this question was critical for it would indicate how the British would act during the coming hostilities, be neutral, or choose a side.
    Giffard retained his noncommittal expression and made the most of a situation he couldn’t control. “I estimate the number of Mexican troops in the