History of the War between the United States and Mexico/Chapter 17

by John Stilwell Jenkins

 

CHAPTER XVII.

CLOSING SCENES OF THE WAR.

Defence of Puebla — Occupation of the Prominent Points on the National Road — March of General Lane to the Relief of Colonel Childa — Battle of Huamantla — Attack on Atlixco — The Guerilleros — Opening of General Scott's Communications — The Mexican Congress and Government — Negotiations Resumed — The Army in the Capital — Orders for the Collection of Taxes — Expedition to Tehuacan — Affairs in California — Capture of Guayamas and Mazatlan — Defence of La Paz and San Jose — March of Genera! Price upon Chihuahua — Storming of Santa Cruz de Rosales.

Like the memorable retreat of the British army from Burgos, the evacuation of their capital by the Mexican forces was peculiarly unfortunate. Its consequences were more disastrous than the loss of a dozen pitched battles. The legitimate fruits of insubordination were speedily visible; and the murmur — at first low, but portentous — soon swelled into a loud and general outburst of discontent. There were angry disputes and altercations among the officers; and the leaven of strife, once animated, spread rapidly through the ranks. The National Guard disbanded by companies and regiments, — many of their number returning to the city, to mingle with the populace and excite them to vengeance, — some flying to join the guerilla bands on the line of the National road, — and others, who did not care again to incur the hazards and chances of war, escaping to the more distant sections pf the country.

Santa Anna no longer possessed the ability to control the turbulent masses of which his army was composed; the spell, by which he had harmonized the discordant elements, was dissolved; his influence was gone — the wand of the magician broken. Accompanied by from three to four thousand infantry and lancers, he directed his course towards the city of Puebla, already threatened by a large force of irregular cavalry and guerilleros, under General Rea. General Alvarez, with about three thousand men, moved round the valley, into the State of Oajaca; and still another fragment of the once formidable array, consisting of cavalry, artillery and infantry, followed the movement to Queretaro, under General Herrera. While on his way to the new seat of government, the acting President, Peña y Peña, directed an order to be issued at Toluca, requiring Santa Anna to surrender the command of the forces under his immediate orders to General Rincon, until his conduct should be examined into by a military council. Before the order was received, he had once more learned how vain it was, how worse than useless, to struggle against his destiny.

When General Scott moved from Puebla. upon the Mexican capital, it will be remembered, Colonel Childs was left in command at the former place, with a garrison composed of detachments from different regiments. His actual effective force numbered about 400, consisting of one company of the 3rd dragoons, under Captain Ford, one company of the 2nd and one of the 4th artillery, under Captains Kendrick and Miller, and six companies of the 1st Pennsylvania, under Lieutenant Colonel Black.^[1] Besides these, however, there were 1,800 sick in the hospitals — a great number of whom were convalescent, or became so not long after the departure of the main army, and were capable, either of bearing arms, or of aiding, in some other manner, in the defence of the positions occupied by the garrison, — which was thus increased to near 1,400 men.

During the occupation of Puebla by the American forces, Atlixco became the seat of government of the state; guerilla expeditions, to operate in different directions, were fitted out here; and it was also the head-quarters of General Rea, who commanded the regular and irregular troops in this quarter. A tolerable degree of quiet prevailed in the city of Puebla, subsequent to the forward movement of General Scott, and while the armistice was in force,^[2] except that, on the 26th of August, a large body of the enemy’s cavalry appeared in sight, and captured and drove off a number of mules. A small party of twenty-six men,mostly teamsters, immediately mounted and started in pursuit. Within an hour’s ride of the city, they were surrounded by the enemy, and nearly annihilated. Ten of the party were killed, several badly wounded, and a few taken prisoners.

After this occurrence, no further open act of hostility took place, although robberies were frequently committed by the guerilleros, in the city and its vicinity, until the night of the 13th of September, when a warm, but desultory fire, was opened from the main street leading to the Plaza, the Tivoli,^[3] and the tops of some of the neighboring houses, on the citadel of San José, within the protection of which the hospitals had been removed upon the first indications of an outbreak. The fire proceeded from the forces of General Rea, about 4,000 in number, who had entered the town in the course of the day, with a determination, in conjunction with the lower classes of the inhabitants, to force the Americans to abandon their positions.

San José was the head-quarters of Colonel Childs, and the principal dépôt of supplies. The immediate command of the post was intrusted to Lieutenant Colonel Black, who had with him four companies of the 1st Pennsylvania, Captain Ford’s company of dragoons, Captain Miller’s company of artillery, and a battery of mountain howitzers in charge of Lieutenant Laidley, of the ordnance. Two other prominent points in the city, — Fort Loretto, and the Convent of Guadeloupe, — were likewise garrisoned. The latter is the first object of importance that attracts the attention, as you enter the town by the National road, from the east; it is perched on an eminence, on the right, commanding the approaches in that direction, and has a ditch and revêtted wall around it; but, during the siege, it was in a dilapidated condition. Fort Loretto, on the same ridge, but lower, and further to the west, is a regular work, with four barbette batteries. one at each angle, which commands a great part of the city, and rakes the principal street. This was garrisoned by about 350 men, consisting of Captain Kendrick’s company of artillery, Captain Hill's company of the 1st Pennsylvania, and a number of sick who were convalescent, with two twelve-pounder field guns, and a ten-inch mortar — the whole commanded by Major Gwynn, of the 6th infantry. Captain Morehead, of the 1st Pennsylvania, occupied the Convent of Guadaloupe, with one company of his regiment; a number of sick, convalescent; and two mountain howitzers, under Lieutenant Edwards, of the 2nd artillery.

The fire of the enemy 0n the night of the 13th of September, was briskly returned by Lieutenant Colonel Black, who remained with his command, including the inmates of the hospital able to carry muskets, on the roofs of San José and the adjacent buildings, till the morning of the 14th. At night the firing recommenced with more spirit and warmth, and was continued day after day, and night after night, until the garrison were almost worn out with watching and exposure. The number of the assailants was augmented daily, and their fire grew more intense. On the 22nd instant, Santa Anna arrived with the troops who had followed him from Mexico; and the domes and towers of the cathedral, its dark gray walls of porphyry, and the spires and roofs of the humbler church edifices in the city, were vocal with the merry peals rung forth to welcome his approach. A prompt discharge of shells and round-shot from Fort Loretto, which had several times silenced unusual disturbances in the city, or checked the enemy’s fire when it became too hot, soon put an end to the ringing of the bells.

The enemy, with their numerous cavalry, had succeeded, at the commencement of the siege, in cutting off all kinds of supplies; but they vainly attempted to change the current of the stream of water on which the Americans depended. Fortunately, the latter had secured four hundred sheep and thirty head of cattle, the very night before the flocks and herds disappeared from the vicinity. Still, it seemed as if that feeble garrison must fall an easy prey to the numerous army that had invested the posts they occupied. Yet, notwithstanding their precarious position, they were animated by the best spirit, and, with a bold and determined front, an undoubting confidence, and a courage of mailed proof, they awaited the general assault which they supposed would shortly be made.^[4]

On the 23rd instant, a dropping fire was kept up on San José; and a part of the enemy’s forces were sent against Guadaloupe, but they were repulsed with severe loss, and retired in great haste and disorder. A second attempt was made on the convent. in the afternoon of the 24th, by a party about 500 strong, under a general officer, who approached within one hundred and fifty yards of the breastwork, and discharged their pieces. A brisk fire dispersed them in a moment, with the loss of ten men killed, and a much greater number wounded. Fort Loretto remained unmolested, though its guns rendered essential service, in checking the constant shower of bullets poured from the streets and balconies, the house-tops and churches, upon the garrison of San José.

On the 25th of September, Santa Anna summoned Colonel Childs to surrender, informing him that there were 8,000 men in his vicinity, but offering to permit him and his command, if they evacuated the city within a certain time, to join General Scott, or the garrison of Perote. But one reply could be given to the summons; — where duty pointed, there inclination led the way. Colonel Childs assured the Mexican commander, on the same day, that his means were ample; and that, as he had been left to guard the positions held by his troops, he should defend them to the last. He then rode to the different posts, and communicated both the summons and reply to his men, who gave the latter a most cordial and hearty response.

Contrary to the expectations of the American troops, no attack was made on the night of the 25th, or on the following day. On the 27th, the assault was resumed, and a heavy cannonade was opened from San Juan de Dios, and the convents of Santa Rosa, and Santa Monica. A constant fire was now kept up from Fort Loretto, from which the city and the inhabitants suffered severely. Infantry pickets were also detailed from the fort, Who became warmly engaged with parties of the enemy. In the morning of the 29th, Lieutenant Lewis sallied out from Guadaloupe, with a party, and attacked a body of Mexicans firing on San José; after a sharp conflict, in which eight of the enemy were killed, and a great number wounded, a shower of rain compelled him to retire. Another successful sally was made from the same point, in the afternoon, by a party under Lieutenant Bryan.

During the night of the 29th, Santa Anna placed two six-pounders in battery, above the Tivoli, protected by a breastwork of cotton bags, which Opened with much spirit on San José, in the morning of the 30th instant. In anticipation of this movement, Colonel Childs had thrown up a traverse on the Plaza, and withdrawn a twelve-pounder from Fort Loretto, with which he returned the enemy’s fire. Throughout the day the firing was animated and incessant; but, failing to make any impression on the American works, the Mexican guns ceased playing towards nightfall, and on the morning of the 1st of October, Santa Anna marched out from the city with his troops, and three pieces of artillery, to meet the reinforcements understood to be hastening up from the coast, to the relief of Colonel Childs. General Rea. remained with his forces, and continued the attack with vigor and zeal. Reinforcements for the column under General Scott were constantly arriving at Vera Cruz, during the summer and fall, and were dispatched as rapidly as possible into the interior, to open his communications, and, if necessary, to join the main body of the army. Colonel Hughes, of the Maryland and District of Columbia volunteers, left Vera Cruz on the 6th of September, with a battalion of his regiment, one company of the 11th and one of the 12th infantry, and 100 Louisiana cavalry — — in all 400 strong — together with two pieces of artillery. The guerilleros were discovered, as usual, at the Hobbers’ Den; but they did not attempt to impede his march. On the 9th instant, the command approached the National Bridge, when the enemy’s heads were seen peeping over the fortifications on the heights. The guns were immediately planted within six hundred yards of the fort, but the Mexicans were found to be posted too high to be reached by their fire; whereupon Colonel Hughes ordered the hill to be carried with the bayonet. Major Kenley moved up in reverse with three companies, — his men laying aside their jackets and knapsacks, and carrying nothing but their arms and canteens. Nearly three hours were spent in climbing the steep ascent, which could only be done by clinging to the roots, and the long trailing vines of the dark purple grape, that were spread all over the hill-side. On reaching the crest, the party paused a few seconds for breath, and then dashed into the fort which the enemy had hurriedly evacuated. Having thus driven the Mexicans from the position, Colonel Hughes established his troops at this point, to keep the road open.

Colonel Collins, of the 5th Illinois, followed the command of Colonel Hughes in a few days, with a part of his regiment, and a detachment of Louisiana rangers, under Captain Fairchild, and took post at the Rio Frio. He was once attacked by the guerilleros, but repulsed them with loss. On the 10th of September, Captain Heintzleman, of the 2nd infantry, left Vera Cruz, with a mixed command of 350 men, and halted, temporarily, at the San Juan river. General Lane took up the line of march, on the 19th instant, with over 1,700 men, — his command consisting of the 4th Ohio, Colonel Brough; 4th Indiana, Colonel Gorman; Captain Lewis' company of Louisiana cavalry; and a detachment of recruits for different regiments of regulars, under Captain Simmons; together with the light batteries of Captain Taylor, of the 3rd artillery, and Lieutenant Pratt, of the 2nd artillery. On approaching the San Juan, a party of guerilleros was discovered near the hacienda of Santa Anna, and Captain Lewis was detached with his company in pursuit; Lieutenant Lilley, with a part of the company, came up with the enemy, and a smart skirmish ensued, in which the Mexicans were severely worsted. On leaving Paso de Ovejas, also, the rear-guard was fired upon by a small guerilla force, and a brief conflict took place, in which Lieutenant Kline, of Captain Lewis' company, was killed. The enemy were again driven off, and the command continued their march, having been joined by the detachment under Captain Heintzleman.

General Lane left a portion of the Indiana regiment, under Major McCoy, at the Puente Nacional; but, upon his arrival at the Plan del Rio, on the 27th of September, he learned that Major Lally, then at Jalapa, had received orders to move forward to Puebla with all possible speed. General Lane instantly sent an express back to the National Bridge, with orders for Major McCoy to join him at once with all the disposable troops at the post, except the battalion of Colonel Hughes' regiment. When Major McCoy came up, the column pressed rapidly forward towards Puebla, through J alapa and Perote, taking with them the troops under Major Lally and Colonel Wynkoop. At Perote, General Lane was informed that a large force was concentrating in his front, and, on reaching the hacienda of San Antonio Tamaris, on the morning of the 9th of October, he learned that the enemy were at the city of Huamantla, which lies between Perote and Puebla, and a little east of the National road.

Leaving his train at San Antonio Tamaris, guarded by the Ohio regiment, Captain Simmons' detachment, and Lieutenant Pratt's battery, General Lane advanced against Huamantla, where Santa Anna was concentrating his forces, for the last time, as it proved, during the war, to encounter an American commander. The force moving upon Huamantla was something more than 2,000 strong,^[5] and consisted of four companies of the 1st Pennsylvania, under Colonel Wynkoop; Colonel Gorman's Indiana volunteers; the detachments under Major Lally, and Captains Heintzleman and Simmons; four companies of mounted rifles and volunteer cavalry, under Captains Walker, Besançon, Loyall, and Lewis; and five pieces of artillery, under Captain Taylor. The Americans arrived near the. city about one o'clock in the afternoon, and General Lane then ordered Captain Walker to move ahead of the column with the cavalry companies, but to keep within supporting distance, and, if the enemy were in force, to wait for the infantry to close up.

When within three miles of the city, parties of horsemen were seen making their way towards it, through the fields, and Captain Walker advanced at a gallop: — owing to the dense thickets of maguey lining the road, it was impossible to distinguish his further movements, from the main column; but, in a few moments, a sharp, quick firing was heard in the direction of the town. At the same time a body of lancers, supposed to be over 2,000 strong, commanded by Santa Anna in person, were observed moving rapidly over the hills, in a line parallel with the march of the American troops, as if striving to reach the city before them. General Lane immediately hurried forward, with the remainder of his troops, at a run. Colonel Gorman was directed to enter the west side of the city with his regiment; while Colonel Wynkoop's battalion and the artillery, having Captain Heintzleman's detachment on their right, moved towards the east side. The command of Major Lally was held in reserve.

On gaining the entrance of the city, Captain Walker discovered about five hundred of the enemy, with three pieces of artillery, in the Plaza, and ordered a charge. His men rushed forward gallantly, routed the Mexicans in an instant, and drove them from their guns. While the command were scattered in the pursuit, and

THE GALLANT CAPT. WALKER.

consequently somewhat in disorder, Santa Anna fell upon them with his lancers. A fierce hand-to-hand conflict took place, in which the American cavalry sustained considerable loss. Captain Walker was killed fighting bravely; but his men held the ground manfully, though unable to fire the captured guns, from the want of priming tubes. Colonel Gorman, however, had now arrived with the Indiana volunteers, and opened a well-directed fire on the enemy. Their line soon wavered and broke. Before Colonel Wynkoop and the artillery came within range, they were completely dispersed, the city was in possession of the American troops, and the colors of the Indiana regiment planted on the arsenal. Two of the Mexican pieces were captured; together with a large quantity of ammunition, and a number of wagons, which General Lane ordered to be destroyed. The enemy lost one hundred and fifty, killed and wounded, in this affair; and the Americans thirteen killed and eleven wounded. A number of prisoners were also taken, among whom were Colonel La Vega. and Major Iturbide, — the latter a son of the former Emperor of Mexico.

Having rejoined his train, General Lane proceeded to Puebla, where he arrived on the 12th of October. As his troops approached the city. a rapid firing was heard, which assured him that Colonel Childs was not yet entirely vanquished. Feeling confident, therefore, that his force was strong enough to enter the town at once, he directed Colonel Brough, with the Ohio regiment and Captain Heintzleman's detachment, to proceed along the main road, and Colonel Gorman, with the Indiana volunteers, to feel his way cautiously into the city, further to the east and left.

The attack on the American posts in Puebla, was continued. without cessation, after the departure of Santa Anna. On the 2nd of October, Colonel Childs availed himself of the reduction of the enemy's numbers, to make a sortie against some barricades and buildings, the fire from which had become very annoying. One of the expeditions was confided to Captain Small, of the 1st Pennsylvania, who passed through the walls of an entire square, by the aid of picks and crowbars, with fifty men, gained a position opposite one of the largest barricades, and drove the enemy from behind it with great loss, — they leaving seventeen dead on the ground. The barricade, consisting of one hundred and fifty bales of cotton, was consumed; and Captain Small retained possession of a prominent building near it, for twenty-four hours, when it was blown up by Lieutenant Laidley. Another expedition was intrusted to Lieutenant Morgan, of the 14th infantry, with a detachment of marines and Lieutenant Merrifield, of the 15th infantry, with a party of rifles. They attempted to gain possession of certain buildings from which a galling fire was constantly poured, but were only partially successful, and returned again to San José. On the 5th instant, Captain Herron, of the lst Pennsylvania, was detached with his company to take possession of a building, from which the enemy had been enfilading the Plaza, and accomplished it in a handsome manner. Successful sorties were also made from Guadaloupe, on the 6th and 8th, by Lieutenant Edwards and Captain Johnson, with small parties.

The assailants were largely reinforced on the 8th instant; the supplies of the garrison were growing low; and affairs began to assume a still more critical aspect. Still, there were no symptoms of giving way, and none proposed a surrender. The Mexicans made a close demonstration in the afternoon of the 8th, but were promptly met and repulsed. On the 10th, hostilities were suspended; a few scattering shots were thrown until the night of the 11th; and on the following morning the enemy began to retire from their positions. The movement had already commenced when General Lane arrived with his reinforcements, and opened his fire on the disappointed troops of General Rea. Meanwhile Lieutenant Colonel Black had moved down the main street, with two companies of the lst Pennsylvania, under Captains Hill and Herron, to silence a warm fire still kept up near the Plaza. At his approach, a body of lancers fled down a cross street, and Captain Herron was directed to move round the square with his company, and cut off their retreat. Whilst hastening to execute the order, Captain Herron was suddenly surrounded by over five hundred lancers, who charged upon him from the lanes and cross-streets intersecting the road along which he was moving; his men fought with the utmost desperation, losing thirteen killed and four wounded; but they were at length rescued from their perilous situation by the timely' arrival of Lieutenant Colonel Black, with Captain Hill's company, who had moved upon the enemy in front.

The long-continued siege of the posts occupied by the American troops in the city of Puebla, was now terminated. Their anxiety and suspense were at an end. Although they had lost but nineteen killed and fifty-one wounded during the attack,^[6] and had never doubted their ability to maintain the. position; yet, their emotions can be more easily conceived than expressed. when they caught sight of the glistening sabres, the flashing bayonets, and the victorious banners of General Lane, as his columns wound through the now almost deserted streets; and when his trumpets sounded their shrill notes of defiance, every man breathed "freer and deeper," and felt prouder of his country, of her honor and fame.

On the evening of the 18th of October, General Lane learned that General Rea was then quartered at Atlixco, about ten leagues distant, with a considerable force, and immediately made preparations for a forced march on that place on the ensuing day. At eleven o'clock in the forenoon of the 19th, he left Puebla with the 4th Ohio, Colonel Brough; the 4th Indiana, Colonel Gorinan; a battalion of the 1st Pennsylvania, Colonel Wynkoop; the battalions of Major Lally and Captain Heintzleman; the batteries of Captain Taylor and Lieutenant Pratt; and a squadron of dragoons, under Captain Ford.

General Lane's column pressed forward all day, at a rapid rate, though exposed to the broiling sun, which beat fiercely on their heads; and at four o'clock in the afternoon they reached Santa Isabella, three leagues from Atlixco, where the Mexican advance guard was posted. The enemy's outposts were driven in by the dragoons, who pursued them for more than a mile. They then made a stand on a small hill, and contested the ground warmly, until the American infantry appeared, when they continued their retreat. A running fight was kept up for four miles, and, within a mile and a half of Atlixco, the main body of the enemy were discovered posted on the side of a hill covered with thick Chaparral. The American dragoons dismounted, and fought on foot, cutting and hewing the way with their sabres. The contest was severe and bloody, and the hill-side was strewn with the dead bodies of the Mexican guerilleros. The infantry, nearly exhausted, and panting for breath, having strained every nerve for the last six miles, soon arrived, and the enemy again retreated. The artillery took no part in the skirmishing, as the road was intersected by such deep gulleys that they could only advance at a walk.

Although his horses and men were almost overcome, General Lane followed like a sleuth-hound on the track. Notwithstanding their utmost efforts, his troops were unable to reach Atlixco before the night had set in. The moon Was shining gloriously, however; and its softened light came down pure and clear, through the highly rarified atmosphere of that elevated clime, throwing out the prominent objects in bolder relief, and enveloping the shadows in still deeper gloom. Several shots were fired upon the Americans as they approached the town, but General Lane deemed it unwise to risk a street fight, in a place of which he and his men were so entirely ignorant. He therefore ordered the batteries to be brought up, and to open their fire. A most picturesque sight was now presented, and it might even have been considered beautiful, were it not for the blazing roofs and tumbling walls, the shrieking women and affrighted children. The cannonade was continued for about three-quarters of an hour, and Colonel Brough and Major Lally were then ordered to advance with care and caution. The ayuntamiento soon made their appearance, and begged that the town might be spared. General Lane listened to their request, and suspended his operations. In the morning search was made for arms and ammunition, quantities of which were found and destroyed.

General Rea made his escape from Atlixco with 400 guerilleros; but the stroke was as effectual, as it was bold and well — executed. The inhabitants of the town had hitherto clamored loudly for a continuance of the war, but, now that its terrors were brought to their own firesides, they began to assume a more pacific tone. General Lane lost but one man killed, and one wounded, during the day; — while the enemy had 219 killed, and about 300 wounded. On his return to Puebla, he learned, when at Cholula, that two pieces of artillery had just been finished at Guexocingo, whither he proceeded with a portion of his command, and destroyed the carriages, — the guns having been previously removed by the enemy.

Bands of guerilleros still hovered in the neighborhood of Puebla, after the arrival of General Lane with reinforcements, and the consequent raising of the siege. The official reports of General Scott were repeatedly intercepted;^[7] and on the 19th of October, Lieutenant Sears, of the 2nd artillery, on his way down from Puebla, with dispatches, escorted by a Mexican spy company, under Captain, or, as he is sometimes called, Colonel Dominguez, was attacked near that city by a large force under General Torrejon. Having beaten off the enemy, he proceeded on his course; but, on encountering another body, under Colonel Vamos, within a short distance, he was obliged to return, having lost fifteen killed and wounded in the two engagements. The enemy's loss was near one hundred. The escort accompanying the bearer of dispatches was now joined by a part of the 1st Pennsylvania, under Colonel Wynkoop, who proceeded as far as the Plan del Rio, and soon after returned with General Patterson.

But the plundering propensities, and hostile feelings of the guerilleros, were not manifested alone towards the Americans, and those connected with them. On the 8th of November, a train of thirty-six wagons, containing merchandise belonging to merchants in Puebla and Mexico, left the former place on their way to the capital. On reaching San Martin, Generals Rea and Torrejon made a descent upon the train, with a guerilla force. and captured it. Information of this transaction was speedily conveyed to General Lane, at Puebla, who forthwith started in pursuit of the marauders, with a party of cavalry and infantry. At Tlascala he overtook the enemy, who were proceeding towards Queretaro with their booty. Captain Roberts, of the mounted rifles, in command of the cavalry, fell upon a portion of the guerilleros, who were attempting to run off the train, and routed them, with ease, — killing seventeen of their number, and taking thirteen officers prisoners. The wagons, except a number which had been destroyed, together with their contents, were recaptured.

General Patterson arrived at Vera Cruz, with large reinforcements, shortly after General Lane left for the interior. In pursuance of special instructions from the War Department, he took effectual measures to clear the road of the guerilleros, and to open the communications of General Scott.

For the greater part of the distance between Vera Cruz and the mountainous country, the roads traversing the low level are lined, on either side, by almost impervious thickets of chaparral, with openings, at rare intervals, through which glimpses may be obtained of the lovely sylvan bowers of i the tierra caliente, Spangled with flowers, and overhung with the arching trees loaded down with their abundant foliage, and the gay vines and creepers lovingly entwined about their branches. These thickets are intersected by narrow, blind paths, running hither and thither, and forming a maze as intricate as the windings of the Cretan labyrinth. Leading, as they do, to the haunts of the bandits and guerilleros, they are familiar to those who use them, in the darkest night. They thus serve, both as a covert from which an enemy may be fired on unseen, and as hiding-places in which it is easy to elude pursuit; and had those who frequented them, during the war with the United States, been animated only by that noble and exalted feeling of patriotism, which nerves the arm, and strengthens the heart, the losses of the American army would have been far greater, and more terrible and severe.

Father Jarauta, who seems to have been the leading chieftain among the guerilleros, from Perote to the Gulf, had given orders to his men to shoot every person who carried provisions into Vera Cruz. He had, doubtless, a twofold object in View: — to stop the supplies, and to excite the population to join his rapidly diminishing band. But his plans were soon defeated by the active and vigilant measures of General Patterson. The country between the Jalapa and Orizaba roads, was thoroughly scoured by the Texan rangers, under Colonel Hays, at all times the terror of the guerilleros, and the other volunteer cavalry. A great number of the bandits were killed; their haunts and dépôts were broken up; and large stores of arms and ammunition were captured and destroyed.

Having effectually routed the guerilla bands, for the present, General Patterson left Vera Cruz, to join General Scott, with nearly 4,000 troops. "Then he reached the National Bridge, he received a message from Father Jarauta, making proposals for a surrender,^[8] which he declined; accompanying his reply, however, with some wholesome advice, counselling him to keep out of reach, or to forsake his occupation, if he hoped to secure favor or commiseration, should the chances of war place him in the power of the American soldiers. The 13th infantry, Colonel Echols, and the light battery of the Maryland and District of Columbia regiment, under Captain Tilghman, which had accompanied General Patterson from Vera Cruz, remained at the Puente Nacional, and the remainder of the column pushed on to Jalapa, whither Colonel Wynkoop had returned from the Plan del Rio, with his command.

While at Jalapa, on the 24th of October, General Patterson caused two Mexican officers, who had been found in command of guerilla parties, in violation of paroles previously given, to be executed. The General was earnestly besought to spare them, by the clergy, and the principal citizens of Jalapa, but refused to pardon, well knowing that the lesson would not be lost on others situated like themselves, many of whom were directly or indirectly connected with the guerilla movements.^[9] These officers with two others, were captured on the night of the 19th of October, by Colonel Wynkoop. He had learned that the Indian town of Halcomulco, thirty miles from Jalapa, was a noted haunt of the guerilleros, and set out for that place in the evening with a party of Texan rangers, under Captain Witt. Coming suddenly upon the enemy's pickets he forced them to act as guides, and entered the town. The officers were surprised in their beds; and, having secured his prisoners, Colonel Wynkoop was on his way back to Jalapa before sunrise.

General Cushing was left in command at Jalapa, with the Massachusetts regiment, and a detachment of mounted men; and General Patterson then moved forward towards Mexico, being joined by the 1st Pennsylvania. He arrived at the capital with his reinforcements about the 1st of December — the last of his command reaching the city on the 8th instant.

General Butler reached Vera Cruz, on his way to the head-quarters of the army, on the 17th of November. As soon as his arrangements could be completed, he marched for the capital, with about 5,000 men, who had recently arrived from the United States. Colonel Hughes was now ordered forward to Jalapa with his regiment, and General Cushing, with the Massachusetts volunteers, was directed to proceed to Mexico. At Puebla, General Butler was also reinforced by the column of General Lane; and, on the 19th of December, they joined the main body of the army under General Scott. Towards the close of the month, General Marshall left Vera Cruz with over 1,700 men; his command consisting of the 3rd Tennessee, Colonel Cheatham; a battalion of infantry recruits, regulars and volunteers, under Major Morris, of the 4th artillery; and the Georgia cavalry battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Calhoun. Lieutenant Colonel Miles, of the 5th infantry, followed General Marshall on the 2nd of January, 1848, with 1,500 men, and having overtaken the latter at Jalapa, they proceeded together to the city of Mexico. Shortly after the train under Lieutenant Colonel Miles left Vera Cruz, Lieutenant Walker, of the rifle regiment, in command of the rear-guard of thirty men, was attacked by three or four hundred guerilleros, who killed and wounded ten of his men, and captured three hundred pack mules. Neither train was otherwise seriously molested on the march to the capital. The guerilleros had been terribly cut up, and they only appeared in small parties, their principal depredations being committed on the merchant trains.

Upon his arrival at Queretaro, Peña y Peña issued a proclamation urging Congress to hasten the meeting convoked at that place; as there was danger, on the one hand, of losing their nationality, and, on the other, of the increase of the anarchy and confusion prevailing in every quarter of the republic.^[10] The country was, indeed, in a most distracted condition. The Puros, or anti-sacerdotal party, in Guadalajara, headed by Gomez Farias, had a violent struggle with their opponents, in which the cathedral was sacked, and a number of persons were killed, among whom was General Ampudia, one of the partisans of Farias. Paredes had an interview With Jarauta at Tulancingo, in October; a pronunciamento was issued, and measures were concerted for the establishment of a monarchy. Santa Anna was quieted for the time, but his friends and followers were still seeking an opportunity to restore him to power. After his defeat at Huamantla, refusing to obey the order requiring him to surrender his command to General Rincon, he directed the greater part of his troops to join General Alvarez in Oajaca, and the remainder to repair to Queretaro, reserving only a small party of hussars as a body-guard. At first he endeavored to make his way out of the country, through the State of Oajaca; but he afterwards returned to his hacienda at Tehuacan, from whence he addressed a protest to the new government, insisting that he had resigned the executive authority temporarily, in order to enable him better to act with the army against the enemy, and a letter to the members of Congress, expressing similar sentiments. He also issued an appeal to the Mexican people, on the 16th of October, complaining of the usage he had received, and declaring that he had done every thing for "the grandeur and glory of Mexico."^[11] The Mexican Congress finally assembled at Queretaro in November, and on the 11th instant made choice of General Anaya as Provisional President, to serve until the 8th of January following, when the regular term would expire. The inaugural address of General Anaya was not warlike, but was well calculated to soften the asperities of his countrymen; while he declared that he would never "seal the dishonor" of his native land, he pointed them to the fact, which could not be disguised, that their internal dissensions for the past twenty-five years, had brought on all the troubles and embarrassments under which they now suffered. The reply of Congress was also conciliatory, and a vote was soon after taken, defeating a proposition of Señor Otero, to deprive the Executive of the power to alienate any portion of the territory of the republic, which indicated that the war would soon be brought to a close. The governors of the several states likewise met at Queretaro, and in reply to a circular from the Secretary of State, indicated their willingness to consent to a peace. The leading members of the cabinet, Peña y Peña, Secretary of State, and Mora y Villamil, Minister of War, were open and avowed friends of a cessation of hostilities; and the former manifested a great deal more firmness in maintaining his opinions, than he exhibited as one of General Herrera's advisers.^[12]

The pacific disposition of General Anaya was manifested still further, by the appointment of Señores Cuevas, Conto, and Atristain, as commissioners to treat with Mr. Trist. The authority of the latter had been revoked, in the meantime, by the President of the United States, and instructions had been issued to transmit any proposition for peace that might be received, directly to Washington. The Mexican commissioners were extremely anxious to enter upon negotiations at once, and as they were willing to do so, with a full knowledge of the revocation of Mr. Trist's authority, he decided, under the advice of General Scott, to act in behalf of his government.^[13] The negotiations, however, were continued for several weeks, though with every prospect of a speedy settlement of the difficulties existing between the two countries; the delay being mainly occasioned by the apprehensions of the return of Santa Anna from his retirement, still cherished by the leading federalists, Herrera, Olaguibel, Anaya, and Peña y Peña. General Almonte, long his bosom friend and confidant, had been warmly supported for the office of Provisional President, in opposition to General Anaya, and they were fearful that he might regain the ascendency.^[14] But their fears proved to be unfounded; Santa Anna was completely overwhelmed by his misfortunes; and all the efforts of his friends, whatever may have been their object, were utterly abortive.

The brilliant victories of General Scott, the masterly display of military skill and strategy, exhibited in the reduction of San Juan de Ulua, and in turning the fortifications of Cerro Gordo, El Peñon, and San Antonio, closed with the possession of the Mexican capital. With the reinforcements, the arrival of which has been mentioned, the army at Vera Cruz and Mexico, and the intermediate points, numbered near 30,000 men, of whom about 20,000 were effective. The main column, under the General-in-chief, was increased to not far from 15,000; but, as the Mexican authorities manifested a disposition to treat for peace, he determined not to continue his offensive operations, although his troops were constantly drilled, and every preparation made to fit them for taking the field. Towards the latter part of October, 1847, Generals Quitman and Shields returned to the United States, and General P. F. Smith was appointed governor of Mexico.

On the 25th of November, in pursuance of instructions from home requiring him, as soon as practicable, to raise the means for defraying the expenses of his army, from the territory occupied, General Scott issued an order forbidding the exportation of uncoined bullion from the Mexican ports, until the pleasure of his government should be known, and directing that no rents should be paid for quarters, after the close of the month. On the 13th of December, a further order was issued, which directed all internal taxes, of every description, in the states occupied by the American troops, to be paid over to the officers appointed to receive them, for the support of the army of occupation. Measures were likewise taken to enforce the collection and payment of the taxes, and detachments were ordered to the prominent points in the state and federal district of Mexico, outside the capital. Colonel Withers, of the 9th infantry, with his regiment, a squadron of dragoons, and two pieces of artillery, was ordered to Real del Monte; General Cadwalader was sent to Toluca with his brigade; and Colonel Clarke was afterwards detached to Cuernavaca, in former times the favorite residence of Cortés,^[15] with his brigade, consisting of the 1st and 15th infantry, the Georgia cavalry, and Lieutenant Lovell's light battery.

Occasional disturbances took place in the capital, instigated chiefly by Mexican officers and soldiers, in disguise, and more especially those who were connected with the guerilla bands; but they were promptly put down. Inflammatory articles also appeared in the Mexican journals that were allowed to be published, which were only prevented by the positive orders of General Scott to suppress them, unless a different course was pursued.^[16] On the 10th of January, 1848, he received information that a general rising was in contemplation in the city. During the day previous to the night on which the insurrection was to take place, he directed preparations to be made to prevent an outbreak, and the designs of the enemy were thus frustrated.^[17] The guerilleros were not yet entirely quieted, although the vigilance of Colonel Wilson at Vera Cruz, of Colonel Hughes at Jalapa, of Colonel Childs at Puebla, and of Colonel Irwin, who was stationed at the pass of Rio Frio, with the 5th Ohio volunteers, prevented their doing much harm. Near the close of December, 1847, the Mexican spies, under Dominguez, had a brush with a party of cavalry escorting Generals Minon and Torrejon, between Ojo de Agua and Napoluca; the lancers were dispersed, and the two generals taken prisoners, and delivered to Colonel Childs. On the 1st of January, 1848, Colonel Wynkoop, then in pursuit of General Rea and Padre Jarauta, with a detachment, captured Generals Valencia and Arista. Colonel Hays and his rangers, and the Mexican spy companies, were also constantly on the alert in order to surprise Jarauta; and early in January, the former came unexpectedly on his band, near San Juan, in the valley of Mexico. The guerilleros were routed in an instant. Jarauta himself fell wounded, but was borne off by his men, leaving his horse, lance and cloak, in the hands of the rangers.

Early in the morning of the 18th of January, General Lane "left the capital — his men being entirely ignorant of their destination — with two companies of the 3rd dragoons and one of mounted rifles, under Major Polk, of the 3rd dragoons, and four companies of Texan rangers, under Colonel Hays, in all 350 strong. The object of the expedition was the capture of Santa Anna, then understood to be at Tehuacan, rather for the

purpose of relieving the apprehensions of the Mexican authorities, than of triumphing over a fallen enemy. It was also designed to scour the country in the neighborhood of Orizaba, in search of property taken from the American trains. Proceeding rapidly along the National road, through Puebla and Amasoque, General Lane turned to the left at the latter place, and, passing through rough and unfrequented paths, known only to him and his guide, arrived at a hacienda near Santa Clara, at five o'clock in the morning of the 21$t instant, having marched a distance of forty miles, from Puebla, during the previous night. All the Mexicans found on the road, and about the hacienda, were secured, in order to prevent the alarm being communicated, and at sunset the troops were again in the saddle. Tehuacan was still near forty miles distant, and they pressed forward with all speed.

But the precautions of General Lane were rendered useless. Shortly after leaving the hacienda, the party came upon a Mexican gentleman travelling in his coach with a number of servants, under a passport from General Smith, as governor of Mexico. He was allowed to continue his journey unmolested, but through his instrumentality, a message being probably conveyed through some secret though more direct path, Santa Anna was apprised of his danger; and when the Americans entered the town with their jaded horses, at daylight on the 22nd, they found that he had made his escape.^[18] The main object of the expedition was thus defeated, without fault or neglect on the part of any concerned. General Lane accordingly took possession of the military property of Santa Anna, in the absence of its owner, and on the 23rd instant directed his course towards the beautiful valley and town of Orizaba, which is situated in the centre of a romantic and fertile district, chiefly inhabited, however, by bandits, in time of peace, and guerilleros in time of war. On the 24th, General Lane entered Orizaba, the ayuntamiento of which surrendered the town without resistance. White flags were displayed from every house, as the Americans marched through the streets. Several days were spent here in recovering plundered property, and the command then set out on their return, arriving at the capital on the 10th of February.

It is now time to refer once more to the position of affairs in California and New Mexico — After the arrival of the regiment of volunteers under Colonel Stevenson,^[19] it was distributed through Upper and Lower California; Colonel Stevenson was stationed at Ciudad de los Angelos, with four companies; Major Hardy, with two companies, at San Francisco; and the other companies were stationed in the valley of the San Joaquim, and at Suters' Port, on the Rio Sacramento, with the exception of two companies sent by sea, under Lieutenant Colonel Burton, to La Paz.

The watchfulness of Colonel Mason prevented any further attempts to disturb the tranquillity of Upper California, and in September, 1847, Commodore Shubrick set sail with the greater part of his squadron, for the purpose of capturing, and occupying as far as was practicable, the forts on both sides of the Gulf, not already in possession of the American forces.

On the 20th of October, Guayamas surrendered to Captain Lavallette, who had with him the frigate Congress and sloop of war Portsmouth, after a severe fire, which was continued for nearly an hour, doing considerable damage to the town, and killing and wounding a number of Mexicans. A collector was appointed for the port, but the place was not permanently occupied. The Portsmouth, Commander Montgomery, was left to blockade the port; and the Congress joined Commodore Shubrick, who proceeded to Mazatlan, with the Congress, the razee Independence, the sloop of war Cyane, Commander Du Font, and the transport Erie, Lieutenant Watson. On his way to Mazatlan, Commodore Shubrick left Lieutenant Heywood at San José, in Lower California, with thirty men and three other officers, together with two nine-pounder guns, to occupy the place.

On the morning of the 10th of November, the American squadron hove in sight of Mazatlan. The town was instantly in commotion, and the greater part of the inhabitants fled into the interior. A large body of the National Guard was stationed at this point, with several pieces of artillery, under Colonel Tellez; but they also withdrew, without offering any opposition; and on the. 11th instant Commodore Shubrick landed with a party of sailors and marines, and took possession of the town. The Mexican troops encamped in the vicinity, and several encounters took place, with small loss on either side. The American garrison was continued on shore, and the collection of duties enforced till the close of the war.

The Portsmouth remained but a short time before Guayamas, which continued for several weeks to be nearly deserted by its inhabitants; and the sloop of war Dale, Commander Selfridge, was subsequently ordered thither. On the 17th of November, fifty sailors, under Lieutenant Smith and Passed Midshipman Duncan, and seventeen marines, under Lieutenant Tansill, — Commander Selfridge heading the party, — landed for the purpose of examining the town and fort. They had proceeded but a short distance from the shore, when they were suddenly attacked by about 400 Mexicans, secreted behind the garden walls and in the houses. A brisk fire was kept up by both parties, until Lieutenant Yard, who had been left in charge of the ship, commenced throwing Paixhan shells into the town. This had the desired effect, and the enemy again abandoned the place to the Americans. Shortly after this affair, an expedition of the officers and men of the Dale, was organized for a march into the interior. They surprised a body of Mexican troops, about three miles from Guayamas, under General Campunazo, and took most of his officers and men prisoners.

After the capture of Mazatlan, the Cyane was ordered to La Paz, and the Portsmouth to San José, both of which posts were threatened by guerilla bands, under their chiefs, Piñada and Mijares. The latter appeared before the works at San José, which merely consisted of two adobé houses, with 150 men and two pieces of cannon. At the commencement of the attack, the guerilla leader was killed, and his men retired from before the post on the arrival of the Portsmouth. Ten more men were added to the cornmand of Lieutenant Heywood; the houses occupied by his force were connected by a high wall, the doors bastioned, and the windows filled in. Piñada was known to be within twenty miles of San José, with from four to five hundred men, but, as every thing appeared quiet, the Portsmouth again set sail for another part of the coast. Lieutenant Colonel Burton was besieged for three weeks by the force under Pifiada, when he organized a storming party, under Captain Steele, who drove the enemy from their works, and captured their flag.

The guerilleros, under Piñada, having been driven from La Paz, once more appeared before San José, after the departure of the Portsmouth, and closely invested the place. From the 24th of January, 1848, to the 14th of February, the efforts of the enemy to capture the post, were unintermitting, and a severe fire was constantly kept up. The provisions of the garrison were getting very low, though their courage and determination rose higher as their difficulties increased; they were strictly confined to the cuartel; Passed Midshipman Duncan and six men were taken prisoners, and on the 11th of February Passed Midshipman McLanahan was killed. The water was also cut off, and disease was fast generating. Fortunately, to the great joy of the garrison, Commander Du Pont arrived from La Paz, at sunset on the 14th of February. At daylight on the 15th, he landed with 100 men; Lieutenant Heywood sallied out with his party; and after a short, but well-contested conflict, they effectually routed the enemy, killing and wounding over fifty of their number, and making a great many prisoners.

Commodore Shubrick was now relieved in command of the Pacific Squadron, by Commodore T. Ap Catesby Jones, who arrived in the Ohio, seventy-four. All the principal ports on the coast being at this time, either occupied, or rigorously blockaded, no other event of importance transpired, until the cessation of hostilities.

In the month of August, 1847, General Price, with a portion of his troops, whose terms of service had expired, returned to Missouri, leaving Major Walker in command at Santa Fé. Colonel Newby, of the 6th Illinois, had previously been ordered to New Mexico with his regiment, and was then on the road. He was soon followed by a battalion of Missouri infantry, under Lieutenant Colonel Easton, and the 4th Missouri cavalry, under Colonel Rails. Another battalion of Missouri volunteers, consisting of cavalry, infantry and artillery, under Lieutenant Colonel Gilpin, was ordered to keep the road Open between Fort Leavenworth and Santa Fé — the Indians still continuing their attacks on the American trains.^[20]

General Price returned to Santa Fé in the fall, and directed the troops under his command, about 3,000 in number, to be distributed throughout the valley of the Rio Grande, from Taos to El Paso. Governor Armijo^[21] made no attempt to recover the authority that had been wrested from him, and no event of particular moment occurred, until early in February, 1848, when intelligence was received, from various sources, that General Urrea, at the head of a large body of lancers, was moving upon El Paso, where Colonel Ralls was in command, with a part of his regiment. These reports were confirmed by the capture of a small party of Mexicans, near Carrizal, below El Paso; letters announcing the intended march of Urrea being found on their commanding officer. An express was immediately dispatched to General Price, with the information obtained, who left Santa Fé at once, with two companies of the 1st dragoons, under Major Beall; one company of the same regiment, acting as artillery, under Lieutenant Love; Lieutenant Colonel Easton's battalion; and the Santa Fé battalion, under Major Walker. On the 20th of February the command reached El Paso. It was now ascertained that the reported advance of Urrea was unfounded; but General Price also learned, that Governor Trias had collected between 1,500 and 2,000 men, and fourteen pieces of artillery, at Santa Cruz de Rosales, a strongly fortified town, about sixty miles beyond Chihuahua, and determined to march down and attack him. General Price left El Paso on the 1st of March with 400 men, and arrived at Chihuahua on the 7th, performing the distance of two hundred and eighty-one miles in seven days. After Colonel Doniphan's departure, Chihuahua had been reoccupied by the Mexican authorities, and General Price was met, on his approach, by a civic deputation, who represented that a treaty of peace had been concluded, and requested him not to enter the city. Doubting the information, as he had received no official intelligence of the fact, General Price entered the town, and on the ensuing day continued his march to Santa Cruz de Rosales, where he arrived in the evening. On the morning of the 9th he summoned Governor Trias to surrender. The latter refused to comply, stating, also, that it was understood there, that the war had been terminated by a treaty. Considerable parleying ensued, and. General Price finally consented to wait for four days, during which time a messenger was expected to return, who had been sent by the governor, to ascertain whether the rumor in regard to a treaty was well founded.

After waiting twice the specified time, and having been joined by a reinforcement of 300 men, whom he had directed to follow him, with the artillery, General Price determined to attack the position, on the morning of the 16th of March. Another demand for a surrender was made, which was rejected, and the action. then commenced by a lively cannonade. A good impression having been produced, General Price divided his command into three parties, under Colonel Ralls, Lieutenant Colonel Lane, and Major Walker, who were directed to attack the works from three different positions. The contest was maintained with vigor until eleven o'clock, when it was suspended in consequence of a rumor, which proved to be false, that a body of lancers were moving up in the rear. At three o'clock in the afternoon, the attack was renewed with increased zeal, and continued until sunset, When the Americans had burrowed through the houses to the Plaza; and the Mexicans then surrendered at discretion.

The enemy lost 300 killed and wounded at the storming of Santa Cruz de Rosales, while the American loss was but five killed and twenty wounded. Governor Trias and forty of his officers, with a number of men, were taken prisoners; and 14 pieces of artillery, and 2,000 stands of small arms, were also captured by the Americans. On the 18th of March, General Price returned to Chihuahua, taking with him Governor Trias, and most of the prisoners; and leaving Colonel Ralls to follow him as soon as practicable. The report in relation to the treaty was afterwards ascertained to be correct; and Governor Trias, and his officers and men, were set at liberty, and the captured property restored.

 

---

 

1. Colonel Childs had, also, a company of Mexican spies, under Captain Arria, who did good service in the defence of the city.
2. The official dispatches of General Scott, communicating the events of the 19th and 20th of August which were sent by carriers provided with passports from Santa Anna, while the armistice was in force, did not reach Puebla. in consequence of the guerilleros infesting the road.
3. The Tivoli is one of the finest ornaments of Puebla. It is a most beautiful promenade, with three broad avenues, lined with stately trees, each separated by a stream of water.
4. “Never did troops endure more fatigue, by watching night after night, for more than thirty successive nights, nor exhibit more patience, spirit, and gallantry. Not a post of danger could present itself, but the gallant fellows were ready to fill it. Not a sentinel could be shot, but another was anxious and ready to take his place. Officers and soldiers vied with each other, to be honored martyrs in their country’s cause.” — Official report of Colonel Childs, October, 13th 1847.
5. General Lane's whole command numbered about 3,300.
6. From the nature of the case, it was impossible to ascertain the extent of the enemy's loss, in the course of the siege. It has been estimated at from 500 to 1,000 killed and wounded.
7. The first information received of the battles in the valley of Mexico, on the 8th, 13th and 14th of September, came through Mexican sources, and, of course, was greatly exaggerated and untrue.
8. The proposition of Jarauta was perhaps made, on account of the dissensions among the guerilleros. His own immediate band was mostly composed of Spaniards, while Colonel Zenobio commanded a party of native Mexicans. A serious difficulty happened in October, that terminated in a fight between the two bands, in which the Mexicans were sadly beaten.
9. General Patterson was equally firm where his own men were liable to punishment. On the day previous to the execution of the Mexican officers, two American teamsters, whom he also refused to pardon, were hung for killing a Mexican boy.
10. Proclamation of Señor Rosa, Secretary of State, dated October 13th, 1847.
11. Santa Anna styled himself in his appeal, "Benemerito de la Patria," — ("well deserving of his country.") "I have not spared," said he, at the close of his address, "my blood in achieving that purpose. You know it, and you will do me justice."
12. There was a cause for this, perhaps, as the power of the army which the federalists seem all along to have dreaded, more than any thing else, was nearly destroyed. The office of General-in-chief, temporarily held by General Gutierrez, was bestowed on General Bustamente, formerly a prominent centralist, but by no means friendly to Santa Anna. On assuming the command of the army, General Bustamente issued an address, in which he avowed his anxious desire to have an opportunity of retrieving the honor of his country. Overtures were held out to him to join Paredes, and others, who were disaffected, in overturning the government, and renewing the war; but he remained faithful to the trust confided to his hands.
13. Special Message of President Polk, February 22nd, 1848.
14. I had a long conversation with Olaguibel, the governor of Mexico, during which I mentioned the reinforcements which had gone forward. He replied, that it was an act of the Mexican government for which he was not responsible, and then added, — 'You ought to know Santa Anna, — — he is 'deceiving you: he wants to make a peace, in order that he may remain at the head of power; but I can assure you there will be no peace until his power and that of the army is destroyed.'" — Extract of a letter from Mexico, dated October 14th, 1847, and published in the "Union." — The movement of troops referred to by the writer of the letter, probably had reference to the concentration of the Mexican forces at Queretaro, a precautionary measure which was very naturally adopted.
15. Although Cuernavaca is but sixty miles from Mexico, it is surrounded by fields of coffee and sugar-cane, which yield an abundant crop. It is also famous for the splendid groves of mulberry trees in its vicinity. The American artillery occupied the palace of Cortes, now nearly gone to decay. "The Conqueror's palace," says Madame do Calderon, (Life in Mexico, vol. ii. let. 31,) "is a half-ruined barrack, though a most picturesque object, standing on a hill, behind which starts up the great white volcano.'
16. Newspapers were established in all the principal towns occupied by the American troops, under their auspices, which exerted a favorable tendency in the restoration of peace. It was a novel idea, which could certainly never have entered the brain of Johannes Faust, that the press and the sword should thus go hand in hand together.
17. Father Jarauta and General Salazar, the latter so notorious for his cruelty to the Texan prisoners, (See Kendall's Santa Fé Expedition,) were prowling round the city about this time, and were supposed, not without reason, to have been concerned in the contemplated movement. Imitating the example of his superiors, Jarauta shortly after issued a proclamation to the Mexican people, calling upon them to awake from their lethargy, and to rally around his standard. It does not appear that his exhortations met with a very hearty or unanimous response.
18. In a letter to the Minister of War, dated at Cascatlan, February 1st, 1848, Santa Anna says that he was informed of the approach of General Lane, nearly two hours before the latter reached Tehuacan; and while he was engaged in preparing a note, requesting that a passport might be sent to him, to enable him to leave the country. He also states, that he took refuge in the town of Teotitlan del Camiro, where there was a force from the state of Oajaca. No further attempt was made to capture him, and he was subsequently permitted to leave Mexico, — embarking at Antigua,just north of Vera Cruz, on the 4th of April, in a Spanish brig, for Kingston, on the island of Jamaica.
19. This regiment is sometimes termed the "1st New York Volunteers," and that with the main column of the army, under Colonel Burnett, the "2nd New York Volunteers," — both regiments having been raised in the State of New York.
20. Still another battalion of Missouri cavalry, under Lieutenant Colonel Powell, was mustered into service, and ordered upon the route to Oregon, to construct a chain of military posts to that territory.
21. Governor Armijo was not in very good odor with some of his countrymen, and, in the month of August, he was arrested at Chihuahua, by order of Governor Trias, for indulging too freely in his comments upon the battle of Sacramento.