The Boers left the Cape precisely to lead a peaceful and tranquil life. Their leaders repeatedly expressed their intentions to live in peace and friendship with the African nations. Piet Retief articulated these intentions in his manifesto: "We declare solemnly that we leave this Colony with the desire to lead a quieter life than we have had up to now. We shall not harm any people, nor take the slightest property from anyone. But if attacked, we will consider ourselves fully justified in defending our persons and property to the utmost against any enemy.
