fall. Leaving pursuit to others, some of Worth's men hasten to direct against the convent the heavy guns at the tête de pont from which they had suffered so severely, together with a hitherto silenced battery of their own. This sudden attack from the side least protected has a startling effect on the garrison, already disheartened by their apparent abandonment for sacrifice, and by the failing ammunition, which is causing a sensible abatement in the cannonade.[1] Rincon and his second, Anaya, lately acting president, observe the danger, and rushing forward midst the men, they cheer them on to fresh efforts, joining personally in directing the artillery, regardless of the raking cross-fire. But the brigades in front and on the left take advantage of the diversion to renew their exertions, and soon Smith's men follow up with a charge which gains the parapet and holds it. Another bound, and on to slaughter. Just then the white flag is raised; the futility of resistance is admitted. Instantly there is a hush, as the smoke lifts and dissipates in curling wreaths.[2]
The conflict still rages in the distance. The pursuers have reached La Candelaria beyond, slashing and thrusting at the straggling mass of fugitives. They already approach the battery protecting the gates of San Antonio Abad, so close upon their heels as to be prepared to enter with the Mexicans. Just then is heard the bugle sounding the recall. They
- ↑ The Apunt. Hist. Guerra, 255-6, declares that by the time of surrender the guns could not be supplied at all. The charge is made of treason in connection with the manufacture and supply of ammunition. Semmes attributes the stoppage to the artillerists being driven from their post by the firing in the rear. Campaign, 290.
- ↑ The fight here had lasted from 10.45 a. m. till 3.30 p. m. Roa Bárcena, Recuerdos, 368. Twenty minutes after the tête de pont fell, adds Scott. Mem., 490. Twiggs received the surrender of 3 generals, Rincon, Anaya, and Arellana, 101 other officers, 1,155 men, 7 guns, and other material. U. S. Govt Doc., Cong. 30, Ses. 1, Sen. Ex. 1, p. 324-5. The dead numbered 136 and the wounded 99, including most of the artillerists. Roa Bárcena, Recuerdos, 365. The San Patricio deserters are said to have 'pulled down the white flag of surrender no less than three times.' Letter in New York Courier; Mansfield's Mex. War, 267. Capt. I. M. Smith, who led the assault, according to Scott, himself unfurled the white flag and stayed his men on seeing the condition of affairs. Apunt. Hist. Guerra, 257.
