| January-June 1845 | July-December 1845 | January-June 1846 | July-December 1846 |
| January-June 1847 | July-December 1847 | January-June 1848 | July-December 1848 |
Index
08 January 1846; MGv46n45p1 CALIFORNIA
22 January 1846; MGv46n47p1 IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO.
29 January 1846; MGv46n48p2 MEXICO.
February 1846
March 1846
26 March 1846; vol 47, no4p3 FRANCE AND MEXICO.
April 1846
April 30,
1846, v47n9p2c4 Words: 80
LATE FROM GENERAL TAYLOR
General Taylor’s report of his army’s position opposite Matamoras.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p2c1
Words: 1725
WAR WITH MEXICO—PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE &C.
An account of the President’s reasons for declaring war against Mexico,
and his hopes for a quick peace.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p2c1,
Words: 218
No Title
The House of Representatives passing the war bill. The objections
of some Whig congressmen recorded.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p2c5-6
Words: 903
FROM TEXAS AND MEXICO
COL. CROSS MURDERED!!!!—HIS BODY FOUND
Account of the discovery of Colonel Cross on the Rio Grande, near Matamoras,
and General Taylor’s demand for the murderer.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p2c5-6
Words: 171
BLOCKADE OF THE RIO GRANDE.
Objection of the British consul over the restriction of trade
into the Rio Grande.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p2c5-6
Words: 405
IMPORTANT FROM THE ARMY
The capture of Captain Thorton (also spelled Thornton) and forty-six
cavalry troops by Mexican forces. General Taylor surrounded by
Mexican forces.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p3c3 Words:
111
WAR! WAR!!
CRITICAL POSITION OF THE ARMY
Report of General Taylor’s position outside Matamoras.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p3c3 Words:
875
THE SURPRISE AND DEFEAT OF CAPTAIN THORNTON
A longer story about the defeat of an American cavalry unit.
May 14, 1846, v47n11p3c3
Words 107
DESERTERS
The attempts of Mexican forces to inspire desertion, as well as
the congressional response.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p2c1
Words: 260
FROM WASHINGTON
By the President of the U. States of America
A PROCLAMATION
The declaration of war by James Polk. Declaration states
that Mexico started the war by invading the United States and killing
Americans.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p2c1
Words: 2525
THE WAR BILL OF CONGRESS
A much longer account of the House of Representatives approval
of declaration of war, including a complete reproduction of the war
bill. Several Whig objections to the war in Mexico.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p2c1
Words: 2127
UNITED STATES SENATE
The Senate’s passage of the war bill, including the objections
of Whig senators.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p2c5
Words: 790
THE WAR WITH MEXICO, &C
An article encouraging Americans to support the war in Mexico.
Says that the war is a patriotic, manly thing.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p2c1
Words: 111
GENERAL MUSTER
Answering questions (presumably from readers, although it does
not say) why the Regimental Parade has not been published.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p2c7
Words: 588
FROM THE ARMY
Account of a skirmish between Texas Rangers and Mexican forces.
Additionally, General Taylor’s encirclement by Mexican forces is dismissed
as nothing the General can not handle.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p3c2
Words: 1345
LATEST!
FROM THE SEAT OF WAR.
AMERICAN TROOPS VICTORIOUS!!
A short report about a battle between the Mexicans and Americans.
This article is filled with more rumors than facts.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p3c2
Words: 497
THE GEOGRAPHY OF MEXICO, &C., FROM THE BATTLE GROUND
A description of Mexico geographically, including the exact position
of the American forces.
May 21, 1846, v47n12p3c2
Words: 275
WHY ARE WE AT WAR?
An editorial that blames the war on Mexico on a financial crises
that the state of Texas. The United States needs the extra capitol
generated by the northern Mexican territory in order to pay Texas’s
debt.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1 Words:
201
BERKLEY VOLUNTEERS.
Short notice that volunteers leaving for Mexico will be meeting
soon to elect officers.
May 28, 1846, v47n12p2c2-3
Words: 1725
VOLUNTEERS FOR MEXICO—REGIMENTAL PARADE—CHAS. J. FAULKNER’S SPEECH—VISIT
OF POTOMAC DRAGOONS.
A patriotic description of some volunteers leaving for Mexico,
including a speech giving the President’s reasons for the current war
with Mexico.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 532
THE WAR NEWS
A short article claiming victory for American forces in Mexico,
no details of the battle given.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 242
IMPORTANT NEWS
From the Seat of War
The American Army Triumphant!
THE MEXICANS TWICE ROUTED AND 1000 KILLED!
Expands on previous article, limited account of the action, mentions
the capture of General Vega by American forces.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words 1133
Confirmatory Accounts.
TWENTY THOUSAND MEXICANS MARCHING TO MATAMORAS!
Position of the Mexican and American armies, more claims of American
victories over Mexican forces.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 1302
STILL LATER FROM THE ARMY.
Numerous rumors of Mexican reinforcements approaching Matamoras,
as well as a report detailing the events of the fort opposite Matamoras.
A limited account of the battles on the 8th and 9th
of May is also included, although with little detail.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 205
FURTHER ITEMS OF WAR NEWS
Comparison of the American and Mexican forces, names of wounded
officers from the battles of the 8th and 9th
of May.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 272
CAMP VICTORY, NEAR MATAMORAS,
A letter from an officer giving a brief description of the state
of the aftermath of the battles of the 8th and 9th
.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 16
No title
A correction of rumor printed earlier, concerning General
Taylor’s departure from his fort opposite Matamoras.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 1106
FURTHER ITEMS OF INTELLIGENCE
A letter comparing the numbers of the Mexican and American armies
at the battles of the 8th and 9th. Also
a description of the prisoner exchange.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 1419
A PROCLAMATION
A report from the “Diario Official” encouraging Mexicans to rise
up and fight against American aggression.
May 28, 1846, v47n12 p2c1
Words: 685
GENERAL SCOTT
A short biography of the elderly general, highlighting his victories
during the War of 1812, in preparation for the General’s preparation
to lead forces into Mexico.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2c1Words:
2224
THE MEXICAN WAR—GEN. SCOTT—PRESIDENT MAKING
An editorial claiming that the Mexican war is unjust, but since
it has begun the honor of the nation demands that the United States
be victorious in this war.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2c3.
Words: 597
LATEST FROM THE ARMY
CROSSING THE RIO GRANDE BY THE AMERICAN ARMY AND PROBABLE SURRENDER
OF MATAMORAS
Report of General Taylor’s arrival at camp with supplies from
Point Isabel. Also a list of officers wounded and killed in the
previous battles.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2c4.
Words: 215
MEXICAN STATEMENT OF THEIR OWN LOSS—PLAN OF CAMPAIGN.
An interview the aid of Mexican General Arista, claiming that
the Mexican army lost 800 men, also an examination of General Arista’s
personal papers, including his campaign plan.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2c5
Words: 399
BY THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA
A PROCLAMATION
A statement from the governor of Virginia authorizing the creation
of volunteer units for the Mexican war.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2c5,
Words: 248
GENERAL ORDERS
ADJUTANT—GENERAL’s OFFICE.
An article outlining the organization of the volunteer units for
the Mexican-American war.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2 Column
5, Words: 838
FORM OF ENROLLMENT.
A follow up article that describes how officers and privates should
be uniformed prior to their enlistment with the American army.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p2 Column
5, Words: 2980
BATTLES ON THE RIO GRANDE
A letter from an officer that gives an in depth account of the
battles on the 8th and 9th of May. Included
are the deaths of many officers, and an overestimation of the number
of troops in the Mexican army.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p3c1,
Words: 2021
BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN
A letter from a second officer describing the attack on Fort Brown
(Taylor’s fort opposite Matamoras), including the death of Major Brown.
June 4, 1846, v47n14p3c3
Words: 954
THE FLYING ARTILLERY—RINGGOLD—RIDGELY, &c.
Another account of the battles of the 8th and 9
th of May. This account focuses on the death (in the case
of Major Ringgold) and the bravery (in the case of Major Ridgely) during
the battle.
June 11, 1846, v47n15p1c4-6.
Words: 2237
MORE ABOUT THE WAR.
MARCH FROM CORPUS CHRISTI.
A letter from an officer to his family describing the American
army’s march from Corpus Christi, the staging area, to the area on the
bank of the Rio Grande opposite Matamoras.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p1c6.
Words: 618
CAPT. SAMUEL H. WALKER.
A biography of an officer in Taylor’s army. The biography
highlights Walker’s character as a gentleman and soldier.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p1c6,
Words: 593
THE LATE MAJOR RINGGOLD
Another biography of the famous Major, highlighting his career
in the army and his death.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p1c6,
Words: 690
CAPTAIN MAY
A biography of Major May. His recent capture of a Mexican
cannon, and its commander General Vega is the highlight.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p1c6,
Words: 212
“IF I GO TO WAR I WILL BE SHOT.”
[General Observation]
An advertisement from an astrologer, offering to read people’s
fortune, and then tell his clients whether they should go to war or
stay home.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p2c1
Words: 242
MILITARY SPIRIT OF BERKELEY
Praises the military spirit of the Berkley volunteers leaving
for the war in Mexico.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p2c2
Words: 231
GENERAL SCOTT
An editorial that accuses the President of using politics to rob
General Scott of his glory as a military commander.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p2c4
Words: 1518
LATE FROM THE SEAT OF WAR
A report that the town of Matamoras had been taken, as well as
rumors about the position and strength of the Mexican army.
June 11, 1846. v47n15,
Page2c4, Words: 752
LATEST
The naval blockade of Vera Cruz.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p2c4,
Words: 120
OPINIONS OF SANTA ANNA ON THE WAR
Santa Anna is portrayed as believing in the righteousness of the
American cause.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p2c4,
Words: 21
No title
General Almonte’s states that General Alvarez’s revolution will
be hard to defeat.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p2c4,
Words: 133
BOUNDARY OF TEXAS
The 1836 declaration of the Republic of Texas stating that the
border of Texas is the Rio Grande.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p3c2
Words: 46
ATTENTION CAVALRY!
A notice that a volunteer unit of cavalry will be electing officers
soon.
June 11, 1846. v47n15p3c2,
Words: 54
MILITARY NOTICE
A unit of volunteer infantry will be electing officers soon.
June 25, 1846. v47n17p2c6
Words: 730
STATE OF THE FINANCES MESSAGE
President Polk’s estimates the cost to wage a war with Mexico,
and how it would be possible to raise the money.
June 25, 1846. v47n17
Page 3c3 and 4 Words: 1508
LATE FROM MEXICO.
FROM GALVESTON AND RIO GRANDE—FIRST MOVEMENT OF INVASION OF MEXICO.
This article reports on the retreat of General Arista and General
Taylor’s treaty with the local Indians.
June 25, 1846. v47n17p3c4.
Words: 540
IMPORTANT RUMOR FROM THE ARMY.
An article stating that General Arista had moved to Monterrey,
and General Taylor’s preparations to pursue. The article also
reports that the Oregon Treaty has been ratified.
CALIFORNIA.- It is stated that there are ten females to one male in California, and many of them possess large landed properties all improved. These ladies are described as being beautiful, quite youthful, and exceeding virtuous, but anxious for good, kind and considerate husbands. We anticipate, after these facts are generally known, that California will be taken. [DJR]
IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO.
By the United States ship St. Marys, which arrived at Pensacola on the d instant, in ten days from Vera Cruz, we learn (through the Pensacola Gazette) of the refusal of the Mexican Government to receive Mr. SLIDELL as Minister from the United States. Mr. S., however, has not returned in the St. Marys, nor does the Gazette vouch for the correctness of the news; but says that it is “disposed to credit it on account of our critical relations with Great Britain, a circumstance of which Mexico would not hesitate to take advantage.” On the other hand, the Pensacola Democrat, which says that Mr. SLIDELL “was not well received,” ascribes the conduct of the Mexican Government to the impending revolutions by which it is embarrassed.
A private letter, dated at Pensacola on the 3d instant, which we find in the Mobile Journal, throws but little additional light on the subject. It says:
“The St. Marys, which vessel you will remember carried our Minister to Vera Cruz, arrived here yesterday evening after a voyage of ten days, and anchored off the Navy Yard. Up to the time I write no one has boarded her, but several came ashore from her. She is understood to bring large despatches for our Government. Those who came from her report (and the report is credited) that our Minister was badly received by the Mexican Government, and was in fact insulted. Another version of the story is, that he was not received and recognized as such at all. Both reports, however, resolve themselves pretty much into the same thing. This statement has created no little exitement [sic] here, and, if true, as I have but little doubt one or the other is, it is presumed that the entire Gulf squadron will shortly appear before Vera Cruz.”
In a day or two we shall, no doubt, receive further information on the subject.
-Nat. Int. [DJR]
MEXICO.
The few extracts which we give below will give the reader some idea of the present deplorable of the Mexican Republic. It seems to us that this unhappy and wretched Republic must soon be numbered among “the things that were.” The people are incapable of self government.
The Vox del Puebla [sic], a leading Mexican Paper, gives a sad picture of the condition of that Republic. Of the administration of the departments, it says:-
“The pen of Jeremiah could not adequately describe the fearful ravages recently committed by the wild savages on our frontier settlements. We have received papers from Satillo [sic], Monterey, Durango, and Zacatacas. In those departments the knife and the firebrand turn entire villages into rivers of blood and heaps of ashes. There are constantly enacted those frightful tragedies so often noticed, so often lamented; there are felt the awful effects of that guilty neglect, that deadly apathy, that lethargic slumber of our government – a living shame to civilization, to religion, to humanity – there the wretched inhabitants pray with imposing looks, but alas! in vain, for a protecting arm to save their wives and daughters from pollution and murder.- Year follows year and brings no relief, no respite to the dreadful sacrifice of thousands of human victims. The press of the departments is filled with supplications to put a stop to such atrocities – but they fall on deaf ears; meanwhile, tributes, monopolies and custom houses are kept in full force.”
The annexation of Texas is referred to as a thing beyond recal [sic]. “Texas is gone,” says the Mexican paper, “gone forever and beyond redemption to our natural enemies, the Anglo-Americans, who know but too well how to estimate us at our true value.” In view of the future destiny of Texas as a part of the great American Republic, a confession is extorted from the Mexican Journal, which it says is a bitter one indeed, and adds-
“That Department, wrested from us by an act of usurpation and perfidy never before equaled, will at once start on a new career of improvement and prosperity – safe from savage inroads, arbitrary exactions, unjust prohibitions and monopolies, a fertile soil will plentifully reward the honest labor of the husbandman, the mechanic arts will flourish, each citizen will be free to arm himself for his own and his country’s defence, and each will have the right to practice, unmolested, the religion which his conscience dictates. Texas, by renouncing her separate sovereignty, will cease to be, as heretofore, a country of outlaws, and become a part of a powerful nation, whose growing prosperity will shed its beneficent influence over the new territory. Such is the destiny of that Department, severed from us and now forming part of the American Union. The tendency of an example so pernicious is clear to all.”
The last Washington Union contains the following important intelligence:-
LATEST FROM MEXICO.
By the arrival, on the 14th instant, of the United States brig Porpoise, at Pensacola, (twelve days from Vera Cruz,) the intelligence of a revolution in Mexico has been confirmed.
It appears that on the morning of the 30th, the troops relied upon by the government to defend it against Paredes pronounced in his favor; and the government entered into terms of capitulation with General Paredes. He entered and took possession of the city on that day without opposition.
The rumor was, that General Paredes manifested less opposition to the reception of Mr. Slidell than the late President, Herrera. [DJR]
FRANCE AND MEXICO.
The idea broached by the London Times of the re-establishment of monarchy in Mexico has been received upon the whole, with favor by the Parisian press. Even the republican National does not denounce it, if it be the pleasure of the Mexicans, but insists upon the full liberty of action being allowed them.- It also advises that in any measures the French government may be induced to join in, care be taken that it not be made the dupe of England. [DJR]
Thursday April 30, 1846, Volume 47, Number 9, Page 2, Column 4 Words: 80
LATE FROM GENERAL TAYLOR
From the New Orleans Correspondence of the Baltimore American dated April 20th , we take the following extract—
He maintained his ground opposite the town, and was in possession of the two ferries. On the 28th ult. GEN Ampudia had reached Matamoras with a body of 3,000 troops under his command and the Mexican force then in the town was upwards of 4,000 men. The general impression was that the dispute between the Governments would be, or had been, amicably adjusted.
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 1725
WAR WITH MEXICO—PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE &C.
We refer the reader’s attention to the important news from our “Army of Occupation.” It will be found in another column. It will be seen that “the war” has commenced—there is no telling yet what will be the end of it. Great excitement prevails every where in the country where the news has reached.-- Large meetings have been held in NEW ORLEANS, MOBILE, &C., and our people are responding with great alacrity to the calls of their country. We have no comment this week, and content ourselves by detailing the facts as they exist.
The President on Monday sent in a message to the House of Congress upon the subject of “the existing war” between the Republic of Mexico and the United States, in which he refers to his statements made in his Annual Message respecting the relations existing between the two countries, and “the causes which led to the suspension of diplomatic intercourse between the two countries in March, 1845, and the long continued and unredressed wrongs and injuries commited by the Mexican Government on citizens of the U. States in their persons and property.” He then refers to the strong desire upon the part of our government “to establish peace with Mexico on liberal and honorable terms, and our readiness to adjust and regulate our boundary and other differences with that power on such fair and equitable principles as would lead to permanent relations of the most friendly nature, which induced him in September last to seek the reopening of the diplomatic relations between the two countries. In futherance of this object the Hon. JOHN SLIDELL of La., was, on the 10th of November 1845, commissioned as envoy extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States to Mexico with full powers to adjust both the questions of the Texas boundary and the indemnification to our citizens. Mr. SLIDELL repaired to Mexico and presented himself as minister Plenipotentiary of the United States, and, notwithstanding he was there by agreement between the two governments, the Mexican government refused to receive him of listen to his propositions. His mission proving unavailing he returned home, and the Mexicans have at last invaded our territory and murdered our citizens on our own soil. The Message then enters into full detail on the origin, progress and failure of Mr. SLIDELL’s mission, and concludes with this language.
Thus the government of Mexico, though solemnly pledged by official acts in October last to receive and accredit an American envoy, violated their plighted faith, and refused the offer of a peaceful adjustment of our difficulties. Not only was the offer rejected, but the indignity of its rejection was enhanced by the manifest breach of faith in refusing to admit the envoy, who came because they had bound themselves to receive him. Nor can it be said that the offer was fruitless for want of opportunity to discuss it: our envoy was present on their own soil. Nor can it be ascribed to a want of sufficient powers: our envoy had full powers to adjust every question of difference. Nor was there room for complaint that our propositions for settlement were unreasonable: permission was not given our envoy to make any proposition whatever. Nor can it be objected that we, on our part, would not listen to any reasonable terms of their suggestion: the Mexican government refused all negotiation, and have made no proposition of any kind.
The Message then explains at length the operations and movements of our “Army of Occupation” and the authority under they act &c. –and concludes thus—
The army moved from Corpus Christi on the 11th of March and on the 29th of the month on the left bank of the Del Norte, opposite to Matamoras where it encamped on a commanding position, which has since been strengthened by the erection of field works.—A depot has also been established at Point Isabel, near the Brazos Santiago, thirty miles rear of the encampment. The selection of his position was necessarily confided to the judgement of the general in command.
The Mexican forces at Matamoras assumed a belligerent attitude, and on the 12th of April, General AMPUDIA, then in command, notified General TAYLOR to break his camp within twenty—four hours, and to retire beyond the Nueces river, and in the event of failure to comply with these demands, announced that arms and arms alone must decide the question. But no open act of hostility until the twenty fourth of April. On that day, General ARISTA , who had succeeded to the command of the Mexican forces communicated to General TAYLOR that “he considered hostilities commenced and should prosecute them.” A party of dragoons of sixty-three men and officers were on the same day dispatched from the American camp up Rio Del Norte, on its left bank, to ascertain whether the Mexican troops had crossed, or were preparing to cross the river, “became engaged with a large body of their troops, and after a short affair, in which some sixteen were killed and wounded, appear to have been surrounded and compelled to surrender.”
The grievous wrongs perpetuated by Mexico upon our citizens throughout a long period of years remain undressed; and solemn treaties pledging her public faith for this redress have been disregarded. A government either unable or unwilling to enforce the execution of such treaties fails to perform one of its plainest duties.
Our commerce with Mexico has been almost annihilated It was formerly highly beneficial to both nations; but our merchants have been deterred from prosecuting it by the system of – and – which the Mexican authorities have pursued against them, whilst their appeals through their own government for indemnity have been made in vain. Our forbearance has gone to such an extreme as to be mistaken in its character. Had we acted with vigor in repelling the insults and redressing the injuries inflicted by Mexico at the commencement, we should doubtless have escaped all the difficulties in which we are now involved.
Instead of this, however, we have been exerting our best efforts to propitiate her good will. Upon the pretext that Texas, a nation as independent as herself thought proper to unite its destinies with our own, she has effected to believe that we have severed her rightful territory and in official proclamations and manifestoes, has repeatedly threatened to make war on us for the purpose of reconquering Texas. In the mean time, we have tried every effort at reconciliation. The cup of forbearance has been exhausted, even before the recent information from the frontier of the Del Norte. But now, after reiterated menaces, Mexico has passed the boundary of the United States, has invaded our territory, and shed American blood upon the American soil.-- She has proclaimed that hostilities have commenced, and that the two nations are now at war.
As war exists, notwithstanding all our efforts to avoid it, exists by the act of Mexico herself, we are called upon by every consideration of duty and patriotism, to vindicate with decision the honor, the rights, and the interests of our country.
Anticipating the possibility of a crisis like that which has arrived, instructions were given in August last, “as a precautionary measure, ”against invasion, or threatened invasion, authorizing General TAYLOR, if the emergency required, to accept volunteers, not from Texas only, but from the states of Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee, and Kentucky; and corresponding letter were addressed to the respective governors of those states.
These instructions were repeated; and in January last, soon after the incorporation of “Texas into the Union of the States,” Gen TAYLOR was further “authorized by the president to make a requisition upon the executive of the State for such of its militia force as may be needed to repel the invasion or to secure the country against apprehended invasion.” On the 2d day of March he was again reminded, “in the event of the approach of any considerable Mexican force, promptly and efficiently to use the authority with which he was clothed to call to him such auxiliary force as he may need.” , Gen TAYLOR, pursuant to authority vested in him by my direction, has called upon the Governor of Texas for four regiments of state troops—two to be mounted and two to serve on foot; and on the Governor of Louisiana for four regiments of infantry, to be sent to him as soon as practicable.
In further vindication of our rights and defence of our territory, I invoke the prompt action of congress to recognize the existence of the war, and to place at the disposition of the Executive the means of prosecuting the war with vigor, and thus hasten the restoration of peace. To this end I recommend that authority should be given to call into the public service a large body of volunteers to for not less than six or twelve months, unless sooner discharged. A volunteer force is, beyond question, more efficient than any other description of citizen soldiers; and it is not to be doubted that a number far beyond that required would readily rush to the field upon the call of their country. I further recommend that a liberal provision be made for sustaining our entire military force, and furnishing it with the supplies and munitions for war.
The most energetic and prompt measures, and the immediate appearance in arms of a large and over powering force, are recommended to congress as the most certain and efficient means of bringing the existing collision with Mexico to a speedy and successful conclusion.
In making these recommendations, I deem it proper to declare the it is my anxious desire not only to terminate hostilities speedily, but to bring all matters in dispute between this Government and Mexico to an early and amicable adjustment; and in this view I shall be prepared to renew negotiations, whenever Mexico shall be ready to receive propositions or to make propositions of her own.
I transmit herewith a copy of the correspondence between one Envoy to Mexico and the Mexican Minister for foreign affairs; and so much of the correspondence between that Envoy and the Secretary of State, and between the Secretary of War and the General in command on the Del Norte, as are necessary to a full understanding of the subject.
JAMES K. POLK
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 2, Column 1, Words: 218
Washington, May 11, 1846.
It will be seen from the annexed proceedings which we clip from the Congressional report of the Baltimore Sun of the 12th inst. that the House of Representatives have responded with great promptness to the Message—and the Senate will doubtless concur in the action of the House.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
As the cars left the bill containing Mr. Boyd’s amendment was read a third time and passed by a vote of yeas 174, nays 14.
The bill recognizes the existence of war appropriates 10,000,000 and authorizes the President to accept the services of 50,000 volunteers.
In addition to the present military and naval force the President is authorized to complete all the public armed vessels, and to purchase such merchant vessels and steamboats as can be easily converted into armed vessels.
The title of the bill was amended so as to read as act to provide for the prosecution of the existence of war between the United States and the Republic of Mexico.
The amendments of the senate to the bill providing for the increase of the rank and file of the army, were taken up and concurred in. They increase the number of men in each company from 40 to 100, and extend the term of service from three to five years. The House then adjourned.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 2, Columns 5 and 6 Words: 903
FROM TEXAS AND MEXICO
COL. CROSS MURDERED!!!!—HIS BODY FOUND
From the New Orleans Picayune of May 1
The brig Apalachicola Capt. Smith, arrived at New Orleans yesterday, from whence she sailed on the 24th ult. And reports that on the 22nd she left point Isabel where Major Thomas, the acting quartermaster informed Capt. Smith that the body of Col. Cross had been found about four miles from Gen. Taylor’s camp on the Rio Grande. From the wounds upon the body it seems evident that he was killed by a lance.
It was further reported that a person in Matamoras had acknowledged that he was the murderer, and he had the watch and clothing of Col. Cross in his possession.
Gen. TAYLOR, it is reported, had made a formal demand for the murderer.
Capt Smith confirms the statement regarding the death of Lieut. PORTER.
All open communications were admitted to pass by the Commandant at Point Isabel between that post and Matamoras.
The Mexican schooner Juanita, from this port for Matamoras, was taken into Brazos Bay on the 22nd ultimo, by the pilots—no doubt by permission of the blockading force.
LATER—IMPORTANT MOVEMENTS
The schr. Cornelia, Capt. Stark, arrived last evening from Brazos Santiago, whence she sailed on the evening on the 24th inst. She reports that about three hours before she sailed an express had arrived from Gen. Taylor , stating that the commander of the Mexican forces had made a formal declaration to Gen. Taylor that if he did not move his army from the position he then occupied, within thirty-six hours, that the Mexican batteries would be opened upon them.
The same express also stated that at that time a body of 2,000 Mexicans had crossed the Rio Grande, near Boretta—a small town about eight miles below Matamoras, on the west bank of the river—and taken up a position between Point Isabel and General Taylor’s camp. The design of this movement is evidently to cut off American troops from their supplies. A private letter was also received last evening from an officer in General Taylor’s camp, confirming in part, the above report of the Mexicans crossing the river, but stating the number at 1,000 only.
There had previously been so many rumors to the same effect in the camp, that little reliance was placed upon this one, which was first communicated by a Mexican who was prudently detained by order of Gen. Taylor.
The accounts by the Cornelia confirm the melancholy news news given above as to the fate of Col. Cross. He was found entirely stripped and wounded before as stated.
We have a letter from an officer in the camp, dated the 221st ult., the postscript to which states, shat we had no doubt of, that the Americans “had not retired one foot from the bank of the river nor does the General mean to do anything that can look like it.” “Our flag waves over the waters of the Rio Grande, and we have a fixed battery of 18 pounders that can ’spot’ anything in Matamoras.”
The Picayune adds—
While upon the subject of the army, we may state that the steamer Col. Harney, which left here on Wednesday for Brazos Santiago, took with her a battery of ten long 12 pounders, and a quantity of munitions of was, and she was to in more at Galveston for the same destination. The New York, which sailed yesterday for the same point, had a detachment of 180 men on board for the army, under the command of Lieut McPhail. Four companies of infantry are expected here in two or three days, who will be dispatched immediately for the same destination.
The schooner Gen. Worth, twelve hours later from Brazos Santiago, and bringing , it is said one day later intelligence from Gen. Taylor’s camp, was in the river late last night, eight or ten miles below the city, waiting for a tow. It is said a bearer of dispatches from Gen. Taylor was on board. Colonel Hunt immediately dispatched a boat to bring her up.
LATER
The New Orleans Commercial Times of the 1st instant has the following intelligence, which is the latest that had reached New Orleans before the mail left for the North:
We are informed by Capt. Atwell, of the schooner Gen. Worth, who left Brazos St. Jago on the 25 th, that the day before (the 24th) the Mexican schooner Juanita, was taken by the U.S. schooner Flirt, and sent into that port as a prize.
We learn also from the same gentlemen, that the two thousand Mexican troops above the Rio Grande, had captured several wagons, belonging to settlers, loaded with provisions for the American camp. The object of the enemy seems to be, to intercept supplies destined for the U.S. troop. It is more than probable that an engagement has taken place before this.
The American Consul and Merchants, resident in Matamoras had been ordered by Gen. Ampudia to leave for Victoria, Tampaulipas—twenty four hours after having been allowed them time to adjust their affairs. This is a violation of the terms and treaties existing between the U. States and Mexico, it having been agreed on, that in the event of war, the citizens of the two countries, respectively, should not be molested in their affairs, but six months be allowed to those living in seaports and twelve months to those in the interior, to arrange for their departure.
Our army is in good health and spirits, only 135 being on the sick list.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 2, Columns 5 and 6 Words: 171
The New Orleans Picayune of the 1st inst. has the following paragraph:
BLOCKADE OF THE RIO GRANDE.
We learn last evening that formal protests had been made before the British Consul by the English houses which had shipped cargoes on board the schooners Equity and Floridian which were turned back by the United States brig Lawrence, off the mouth of the Rio Grande.
The Picayune has also the following correction:
THE ARMY--Misapprehension Corrected—General Worth—Our readers cannot fail to have been struck by the number of officers reported by the city press to have arrived here in the New York on her last trip from Galveston. Enough were reported to have officered several regiments. This was entirely the result of misapprehension. We learn that but three gentlemen connected with the Army did in fact arrive: These were Gen. Worth, Maj. Van Nass and Lieut. Smith. Gen. Worth, it is known, has transmitted his resignation to Washington; the other gentleen named came here on important business connected with the service.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 2, Columns 5 and 6 Words: 405
IMPORTANT FROM THE ARMY
A Battle—Fifteen Americans killed, forty-six taken prisoner, and Gen. Taylor’s supplies cut off.
On Thursday the 23d of April , 2,000 Mexicans troops crossed over. Capt. Hardin and Capt. Thorton were sent with two companies of Cavalry, 63 men in all to reconnoitre. On Friday morning they fell into an ambuscade of the enemy, when Lieut Kane and 15 men were killed—Captain Thorton missing and Captain Harding and 46 men are prisoners.
After the fight the Mexicans on the American side of the river were largely reinforced, and had surrounded Gan. Taylor’s camp, cutting off all communications with Fort Isabel, at which is the train and all the stores belonging to the army. Gen. Taylor has only 10 days provisions on hand. There are at Port Isable 90 artillery men, 20 dragoons, about 25 teamsters, and 150 citizens and laborers—the entrenchment not quite finished. The steamer Monmouth landed Mr. Catlett on the night of the 29th of April at Port Tobacco, with despatches from Gen Taylor, calling on Gen. Henderson for 40 companies of Riflemen of 60 men each, twenty of them to be mounted men to rendezvous at Corpus Christi. Gen. Taylor has called on the Governor of Mississippi for 8000 troops for immediate relief
Should the releif not be sent to Port Isable it would most probably fall into the power of the enemy with all the army stores and the destruction of the whole army would follow.
The Louisiana Legislature have voted $100,000 to raise recruits to send immediately to the seat of action. Gen. Taylor’s fortress in front of Matamoras, would be completed on the morning of the 28th of April, at which time it was expected fire would be opened up upon the city.
On the 22d April, Gen. Taylor received from Gen. Ampudia, by means of a flag of truce, a communication, in very offensive terms, complaining of having blockaded the Rio Grande, to which he replies that he (Gen. Ampudia) had been the cause of the blockade, he having expressly declared that unless Gen. T. had commenced his retreat beyond the Nueces in 24 hours after his display of his flags upon the Rio Grande, he would consider was as having bee declared, and would act accordingly. Gen Taylor furthermore stated that he would receive no further communication from Ampudia, unless they were couched in language respectful to the U. States.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 3, Column 3 Words: 111
WAR! WAR!!
CRITICAL POSITION OF THE ARMY
The Baltimore American of the 11th says: We refer to the Postscript head in another column for later and very important intelligence from our army in Texas. It will be seen that open hostilities have commenced between the American and Mexican forces—that a detachment of seventy Dragoons fell into an ambuscade—that Capt. THORTON, Lieuts. KANE and MASON, and twenty-six of the men, it was supposed, were killed—Capt. HARDEE and the rest of the command were taken prisoners; and that the Mexicans had crossed over the River in such force as to invest Gen TAYLOR’S Camp and off all communication with Isabel, where were his train, army stores, &c.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 3, Column 3 Words: 875
THE SURPRISE AND DEFEAT OF CAPTAIN THORNTON
In the New Orleans Picayune of the 3d, we find the following letter from the Camp:
CMP OPPOSITE MATAMORAS
April 26, 1846,
Gentlemen—Knowing that in the present excited state of the public, as regards our Mexican affairs, and the welfare of our little Army, as most exaggerated reports creep into the public prints; thereby carrying with them sorrow and anxiety into the bosoms of the friends and relatives of many officers, I feel it my duty to give you a hasty but correct account of the capture of Capt. Thornton a squadron of second Dragoons by a force of Mexicans under the command of Gen. Torrejon. Gen. Taylor , on the 24th had received a report that the enemy were crossing the River above the camp. Capt. Thornton, with his command, was sent out on the evening of the 24 th to examine the country above and see whether there was any truth in the report. His command was composed of Capt. Hardee, Lieuts. Kane, Mason, Five sergeants, four corporals, one bugler, and 49 privates. His Mexican guide returned this morning stating that he had been attacked at eight o’clock on the morning of the 25th by a large number of the enemy, and that the whole command was captured or destroyed. The guide warned him that was in the vicinity of the enemy, and refused to proceed. He waited until night, and none of the party coming in, he returned. About eleven o’clock this morning a private was brought in a cart, wounded in two places. The man who brought him was the bearer of a note from Gen. Torrejon to Gen. Taylor, the amount of which was that on the score of humanity he claimed the privilege of sending him two dragoons who were wounded in an engagement brought by a charge from an American cavalry officer against his command of 200 men, as he had no flying hospital. He then spoke of the rest being prisoners, and said they would be treated with consideration due prisoners of war, agreeable to the custom of civilized nations.
From the wounded Dragoons we obtained the following facts: That the charge was made in open ground; that when the command “charge” was given but a few of the enemy were seen; but, as they dashed over the hill the whole command presented themselves. They were fired upon and immediately taken prisoners. He does not know what became of Capt. Thornton. Capt. Hardee and Lieut Mason are prisoners, and are well. He reports Lieut. Kane as shot, and it is feared he is dead. Ten men were killed. Before the cart left one of the two men mentioned in the note died. From the note Gen. Torrejon it seems that he accuses Capt. Thornton charged upon him. One can hardly can conceive of such madness as charging 200 men with 63, and it is fair to presume that he was surrounded and charged to cut his way through. Time will clear it all up. The capture of Capt. Thornton party, and the sad death of Col. Cross are rather melancholy commencements of the war. I say war, war; for there no doubt of its existence, and that unless an armistice is signed in ten days we must have some hard fighting. The enemy are collecting in some considerable numbers, and I think their force may be estimated with safety and five thousand. Gen. Taylor is rapidly pushing forward his field works, and I understand has sent for 4,000 volunteers—two thousand from Louisiana and two thousand from Texas. If they will give us a fair fight we do not doubt our ability to whip them; but if they are going to give us a second edition of the Florida War it will be a very annoying affair. Yours, very truly, W.S. HENRY Lieut. U.S.A.
The New Orleans Bulletin of May 4 says—
“No later information has been received from the army on the Rio Bravo the was published in our second edition of Saturday morning. We have seen, however, a number private letters, which give us a clearer insight into the state of affairs. From the best information we can get, we do not anticipate any serious disaster to the main body of the American army. The Camp of Gen. TAYLOR is so well situated and entrenched that letters from himself and other officers of the army evince no apprehension whatever.”
A general Town Meeting was to be held at New Orleans on the evening of the 4th instant to adopt measures to the action of the Governor and Legislature of Louisiana.
A Company of more the one hundred volunteers left Mobile for New Orleans on the 4th instant. Gen. Gaines has made a requisition upon Commodore LATIMER, at Pensacola, for the steamship Mississippi and a battalion of men, to be despatched forthwtih to Point Isabel.
According to the New Orleans Delta a highly respectable gentleman received a letter from Gen. TAYLOR on the 2nd instant, in which he (Gen. T.) expresses great confidence that he can hold his position against any force the Mexicans can bring against him, until he receives reinforcements. He expresses no uneasiness at the result.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 14, 1846, Volume 47, Number 11, Page 3, Column 3 Words 107
DESERTERS—In reply to the resolution of Congress, in relation to deserters from the Army in Texas, a message was sent to Congress on Friday by the President. All the information on the subject is contained in this extract from Gen. TAYLOR’S despatch of the 6th ult. to the War department:
“Efforts are continually making to entice our men to desert, and, I regret to say have met considerable success. Four, however, have been drowned in swimming the river, and two have been killed by our pickets while attempting to desert, which has operated to check the practice. A majority of those who have deserted are old offenders.”
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 260
FROM WASHINGTON
By the President of the U. States of America
A PROCLAMATION
Whereas, the Congress of the United States, by virtue of the constitutional authority vested in them, have declared by their act, hearing date this day, that, “by act of the republic of Mexico, a state of war exists between that Government and the United States.
Now, therefore, I, JAMES K. POLK, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the same to all whom it may concern; and do join specially enjoin all persons holding offices, civil or military, under the authority of the United States, that they be vigilant and zealous in discharging the duties respectfully and incident thereto: and I do moreover exhort all the good people of the U. States as they love their country, as they feel the wrongs that have been forced upon them the last resort of injured nations, and as they consult the best means, under the blessing of Divine Providence of abridging its calamities, that they exert themselves in preserving order, in promoting concord, in maintaining the authority and efficiency of the laws and in supporting and invigorating all the measures which may be adopted by the constituted authorities for obtaining a speedy, a just, and an honorable peace.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed to these presents. Done at the city of Washington the thirtieth day of May, one thousand eight hundred and forty-six, and of the independence of the United States the seventieth.
JAMES K. POLK
By the President:
JAMES BUCHANAN Secretary of State
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 2525
THE WAR BILL OF CONGRESS
The following is a correct copy of the important Bill which passed the House of Representatives on the 11th inst., by a vote of 174 to 14:
“An act providing for the prosecution of the existing war between the United States and the Republic of Mexico.”
Whereas, by the act of the Republic of Mexico, a state of war exists between that Government and the United States: Therefore—
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That, for the purpose of enabling the Government of the U. States to prosecute said war to a speedy and successful termination, the President be and is hereby authorized to employ the militia, naval and military forces of the United States and to call for and except the services of any number of volunteers, not exceeding fifty thousand, who may offer their services, as cavalry, artillery, infantry, or riflemen, to serve six months after they have arrived at the place of rendezvous, or at the end of the war unless sooner discharged. That the sum of ten millions dollars and is hereby appropriated out of any money in the Treasury or to come into the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the purpose of carrying the provisions of this act into effect.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the militia , when called into service of the United States by virtue of this act, or any other act, may, if in the opinion of the President of the United States the public interest requires it, be compelled to serve for a term not exceeding six months after their arrival at the place of rendezvous, in any one year, unless sooner discharged.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the said volunteers shall furnish their own clothes, and, if cavalry, their own horses; and, when mustered into service , shall be armed and equipped at the expense of the United States.
Sec.4. And be it further enacted, That said volunteers, when called into actual service, and while remaining therein, shall be subject to the rules and articles of war, and shall be, in all respects, except as to clothing and pay, placed on the same footing with similar corps of the United States army; and , in lieu of clothing, every noncommissioned officer and private in any company who may thus offer himself, shall be entitled when called into actual service, to receive in money a sum equal to the cost of clothing of a noncommissioned officer or private (as the case may be) in regular troops of the United States.
Sec, 5. And be it further enacted, That the said volunteers so offering their services shall be accepted by the President in companies, battalions, squadrons, and regiments, whose officers shall be appointed in a manner prescribed by the law in the several States and Territories to which such companies, battalions, squadrons, and regiments shall respectively belong.
Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That the President of the United States be and is hereby authorised to organize companies so tendering their services into battalions and brigades, brigades into divisions, as soon as the numbers of volunteers shall render such organization, in his judgement, expedient; and shall, by and with the advise of the Senate, appoint the generals of brigade and divisions; as well as the general staff, as now authorised by law: Provided however, That major generals and brigadier generals shall have the appointment of their aide-de-camp, and the President shall, if necessary, apportion the staff, field , and general officers among the respective states and Territories from which the volunteers shall tender their services, as he may deem proper.
Sec. 7. And be it further enacted, That the volunteers who may be received into the service of the United States by virtue of the provisions of this act, who may be wounded or otherwise disabled in service, shall be entitled to all benefits which may be conferred on persons wounded in the service of the United States.
Sec. 8. And be it further enacted, That the President of the United States be and is hereby authorised forthwith to complete all the public armed vessels now authorised by law, and to purchase or charter, arm, equip, and man such merchants and steamboats as upon examination may be found fit or easily converted into armed vessels, fit for the public service, and in such number as he may deem necessary for the protection of the sea board lake coast, and the general defense of the country.
Sec. 9. And be it further enacted, That whenever the militia or volunteers are called and received into the service of the U. States, under the provisions of this act, they shall have the organization of the army of the U. States, and shall have the same pay and allowances, except as follows, to wit: Privates of infantry, artillery, and riflemen, shall receive ten dollars per month and privates of volunteers mounted corps twenty dollars per month for their services and the use and risk of their horses.
The following incident, which occurred during the consideration of the Bill, are properly published as part of the history connected with its passage:
At that stage of the proceedings of the House when this Bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading—
Mr. GARRETT DAVIS rose and said: Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to Excuse me from voting on the passage of this bill, and I will assign very briefly my reasons.
This is a measure, directly and indirectly, of very great importance, and yet no opportunity, not a single moment, has been allowed any Whig of this House to say one word upon it. So far as I can operate upon the fate of the gallant General and his little army upon the Del Norte, there is no need for such unparalleled in urging a measure of its character through this body. He is on a frontier three thousand miles distant. In the exercise of discretionary power vest him by the Executive, he has made requisitions on the Governors of the neighboring state for ten thousand troops. At this moment, the destiny of General Taylor and his gallant band is sealed, and I doubt not that ere now the prompt succour which he has received from the states contiguous to the theatre of his operation has given him such force that he has beaten back the enemy, and that his victorious standard at this moment floats over Matamoras. Whatever it is, his fate is now sealed, and any thing we now do will be too late to influence it. There could then be no valid objection to give a day to the consideration of this bill, and no persons would desire more. But the haughty and dominating majority will bit allow now this much.
But Mr. Speaker, I have an objection to the preamble of the bill. It recites that war exists between the United States and Mexico, and that this war was begun by Mexico. That informal war exists between the two countries is undeniable; but that Mexico commenced it is utterly untrue, and I object to the preamble because it sets forth so bold a falsehood. I am decidedly strongly in favor of the appropriation of the money, and the raising of the forces for which the bill provides. For these purposes, it is sufficient for me that our country is at war, be it formal or informal, whether began by Mexico or our Government. I require only to know that our army is in danger, and whether it be in the territory of the United States or Mexico, I am ready to vote men and money even to the utmost resources of the country for the rescue. If the war be wrongful, at a more convenient season I would hold them responsible who made it. But I protest solemnly against defiling this measure with the unfounded statement that Mexico began this war. That position is not necessary to give this bill any possible effect. It could have been as well omitted and had it been rejected I doubt not the bill would receive the unanimous vote of the House. But that was not the subject of its authors. The purpose was to make the Whigs vote against, or force them to aid in throwing a shelter over the administration, by voting for a bill which set forth that this needless and unexpected war was commenced by Mexico.
Sir, if the bill contained any resitation upon that point in truth and justice it should be that this war was begun by the President. The river Nueces is the true western boundary of Texas. The country between that stream and the Del Norte is part of Mexico; and that power had people and establishments in it. Months ago, the President, of his own will, orders Gen. Taylor and his army to take post at Corpus Christi, on the west bank of the Nueces, where they remained until a considerable time after the beginning of this session of Congress. In March last, under the positive orders of the President, he moves through the disputed country upon the Del Norte. The Mexican authorities meet him at several points with the declaration that he has invaded their country, and with protests against the aggression. They warn him unless he reties east of the Nueces, he will be deemed to be making war upon Mexico, and they will resort to force. He refers to the positive orders of the Executive, and in the execution of them he presses on to Matamoras; strongly fortifies a position overlooking the city, and mounts a battery of cannon within three hundred yards of it. Bearing upon its public square, and from hence he could, in a few hours, batter it down. He then blockades the port of Matamoras, orders off English and American vessels, and directs the capture of a Spanish schooner. The Mexican commander treats all these as acts of war; and, and the 25 th of April, Gen. Taylor is informed by messenger, from the Mexican camp, that hostilities exist, and that the Mexicans will prosecute them according to the usages of civilized nations. That night a detachment of the Mexican army crosses the Rio Grande, Gen. Taylor send s out a scouting party to reconnoitre, which attacks the Mexicans, and thus war is waging in bloody earnestness.
It is our President who began this war. He has been carrying it on for months in a series of acts. Congress, which is vested exclusively by the Constitution with the war—making power, he has not deigned to consult, much less ask for its authority. Now forsooth, when it has unexpectedly broke forth in bloody reverses, a position must be taken by the friends of the President in Congress to protect him by charging Mexico with being the author of the war; and he, in cold blood, teaches others to sacrifice a brave and veteran officer, whenever it may become necessary to cover his mistakes and imcompetency.
I have yet another objection to this bill. All that is proposed to be voted by this bill is to be trusted to him. He is to conduct this war. He is our commander-in-chief, our Generalissimo of army and navy. He knows, or ought to know, how much money and how many men the present exigency requires; and yet he has not named a sum or any number of troops, as has been invariably the usage in such cases by all former Presidents. He leaves us to act upon our information and judgement in the premises. Are we to understand that he abandons the responsibilities and duties as President and Commander-in-chief in the conduct of this war? Does he intend to be understood by Congress as saying to them, (what must be now apparent to the whole nation) “I am unequal to the high position I occupy. I know not how to advise you as to the amount of money and number of men you must raise to rescue the military renown of the country from the passing cloud which now covers it. In this important matter you must assume my duties and my responsibilities, and adopt the necessary measures to vindicate the suffering honor of the nation?” If this be the position of the President, he has exhibited more good sense in assuming it than all the acts of his administration besides; if it be not, he exhibits his usual reprehensive secretiveness.
But Mr. Speaker, the essence of this measure is the supplies. They will all be required before the nation gets out of this difficulty. I will vote for the supplies of the bill with hearty alacrity, at the same time protesting against its falsehoods. Since the play has begun, I am for fighting Mexico on our own soil, on hers, everywhere, until we drive her across the Rio Grande, and retrieve our ancient renown . I am then for withdrawing our army to east side of the Nueces, and then settling by treaty all our points of dispute with that weak and distracted country upon the liberal terms.
[Mr. Davis was frequently interrupted by calls to order, and finally declared, when taking his seat, that he withdrew his request for leave to be excused from voting, and he said he should vote for the bill.]
Those members who voted against the Bill were—
Messr. John Quincy Adams, Ashmun, Cranston, Culver, Delano, Guildings, Grinnel, Hudson, Daniel P. King, Root, Reverance, Strohm, Tilden, Vance—14.
When the final vote was taken the following members severally assigned reasons, viz:
When Mr BAYLY’s name was called he rose and said: Mr. Speaker, I ask to be excused from voting. I cannot vote in silence without placing my self in a false postion. I consider this bill virtually a declaration of war, made without Executive recommendation; for I do not understand the Executive as recommending a declaration of war, And made too when we do not know that the invasion of our territory and aggressive acts are sanctioned by the Government of Mexico. They may yet be disavowed, and reparation made. I am, therefore, unwilling to vote this declaration of war. I do not consider such a declaration necessary to meet such an emergency. On the other hand I am anxious to vote such supplies of men and means as will afford succour to our army and repel the invasion. I must, as I am now placed, decline to do this or vote for the bill before the House. If I am not excused, I shall vote for the bill, as I consider withholding the supplies under the circumstances as the greater evil. Mr. B. withdrew his request to be excused.
When Mr. ALBERT SMITH’s name was called, he rose and said : “Mr. Speaker, I vote for the bill, but I do so under protest to the preamble of the bill, as false in its facts and operating as a fraud upon the nation.”
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 2127
UNITED STATES SENATE
During the consideration of the War Bill in the U. S. Senate on Tuesday, after Mr. Huntington had moved the striking out of the preamble , viz: “Whereas, by the act of the Republic of Mexico, a state of war exits between that Government and the United States: Therefore”—Mr. Johnson of Md. Rose and made the following remarks:
Mr. Reverdy Johnson said that, from the first moment he had heard that the American army was in danger, and that the honor of the nation required its relief, he had in his own heart resolved that nothing he could do would be wanting to secure the one and to vindicate the other; and if for that purpose it was deemed necessary to place the whole physical and pecuniary of power of the Government at the disposal of the Executive, he was prepared to do it. In voting upon the several amendments which had been proposed upon his own side of the Senate, he had been actuated by the single purpose of procuring, if such a thing were a possible, a unanimous vote of the Senate. That most desirable end seemed to be now impossible.
In relation to one of the amendments which had been proposed, his own personal wishes would have been gratified could it have been adopted, so that he might have been relieved from the necessity of asserting that a state of war now existed between the United States and Mexico. But in this he had been disappointed, and he had found himself obliged to act such information as was now in his possession; and , forming his judgement from that alone, he must believe that a state of war did now exist ; not to be sure, in the constitutional sense, because the Constitution conferred upon Congress the exclusive power to declare war; but in a sense equally important. The territory of the United States had been invaded. And why did he say this? He had not been here at the time Texas had been received into the Union; but was but frank in him to say, however his opinions might be now Texas was represented here, he should at that time have voted against her admission.
But Texas was now received; she constituted one of the States of this Confederacy. And how had she been received? What had been her condition then, and what is it now? She had claimed the Rio Del Norte as her boundary line since 1836. She had announced that river to the world as one of her boundaries. What else had she done? In pursuance of the offer of the United States she had adopted a constitution; and in that instrument she asserted the same limits to her jurisdiction. In view of that instrument, the portion of country now occupied by our troops constituted by law as one of our own Congressional districts. By receiving her we had made that district as much our charge as any other portion of the United States---whether by Mr. J’s consent or not was immaterial to him. Texas was now in the Union; and her rights and interests, as one of the States, were now as dear in the view of every true American as those of any of the other States. We were bound by our plighted faith was pledged to maintain her territory as it was. We had received her with boundaries specifically defined; and certainly, the national faith was pledged to maintain these boundaries as we had recognized them, and to defend her territory in its entire extent.
Mr. J was unwilling to vote for the amendment of his friend from Connecticut, (Mr. HUNTINGTON.) That gentlemen was unwilling to adopt the preamble of this bill, because it asserted not only that a war existed, but what was the cause of the war; and it charged it altogether upon the act of Mexico. But what would be the effect of striking out this part of the bill? It was virtually to say that the war was owing to some other cause; and what was that? It could be nothing else than some wrong done by the United States. Now Mr. J, was willing to adopt was willing to adopt no amendment implying the dishonor of his own country. He would never consent by a vote of his to declare to the world that in this war the United States had been the aggressor. He would not have voted to declare war; but if was necessary and could not be avoided, he was not going to begin it by telling the world that it had been induced by the fault of the United States Government. He was not called upon to vote that the crossing of the Rio Del Norte was an act of war, or that it was done by order of the Government of Mexico. He had no positive proof that it was; but he could not believe, with the honorable Senator from Michigan (Mr. CASS,) that the presumption was strong nay, violent, that it had been ordered by that Government. He was asked to vote simply that a state of was did exist, and the amendment moved by his fried from Connecticut asked him to say that it existed by some wrong on our part. This he would not do. If he was right in holding the Rio Del Norte to be the western boundary of Texas, then we had a right to march our army to that river. Whether it was expedient to do so was another question. We were bound if we believed that the safety of Texas required it, to take the step.
He confessed that, had the responsibility been his, he should have acted otherwise; but the act was done, the advance had been made; our army was in a state of danger; Gen. TAYLOR was surrounded by three times his own number; his supplies were cut off; and ere this it was possible that the whole command had fallen victims to their own reckless bravery and want of caution. Could he say that war did not exist? Certainly it did; and it existed by the act of Mexico, if the advance of Gen. ARISTA had been made by the order of the Mexican Government He could not consent to the amendment, and thereby to say that if war existed, it existed by our own fault, and not by the aggression of Mexico. Mr. MOREHEAD said that the Senator from Maryland must be mistaken on the question of boundary. The subject of boundary was expressly referred to in the discussion on the annexation resolution itself. The second section of that resolution says:
Sec. 2. And be it further resolved, That the foregoing consent of Congress is given upon the following conditions, and with the following guaranties, to wit: First. Said state to be formed, subject to the adjustment by this Government on all questions of boundary that may arise with other Governments.
The question which we are now called upon to determine, he understood to be, was whether the war declared to exist has been caused by Mexico. Whether it is waged by the authority of Mexico may depend on circumstances. We have not had an opportunity to investigate the subject. The question may hereafter present itself in a different light from that which we now see it; and yet under these circumstances, we are called to declare that this is a war authorized by Mexico.
Mr. HUNTINGON thought his friend from Maryland was laboring under a mistaken idea with respect to the purport of his amendment. If we erase the preamble, we do not thereby deny that war exists; nor do we assert that Mexico has not authored these hostile acts. We only declare , by striking out the preamble, that we wished to investigate; that we do not know; that we have not evidence whether war does exist authorized by Mexico.
Mr. JOHNSON, of Maryland, said that Mexico claims the whole of Texas. We cannot go to Mexico therefore, to ask about our boundaries. She denies the existence of such a state as Texas. We go to Texas to inquire about the boundary.
Mr. BERRIEN said that in the debates on the annexation of Texas the question of the true boundary was one of much doubt and difficulty. It was difficult to understand whether the Nueces or the Rio Grande was the boundary between Texas and Mexico, and the section referred to was added by the Senate for this very reason. It was to settle this disputed boundary that the amendment referred to was made.
In the U.S. Senate, on the 11th inst., when the motion to print 20,000 copies of the President’s Message and accompanying papers one the subject of our Mexican relations was under discussion, Mr. CRITTENDEN of Ky. Made the following remarks:
Mr. CRITTENDEN after making some inquiries as to the documents communicated with the President’s message, and after the order of General Taylor to advance to the Rio del Norte had been read, proceeded to remark, in substance, that he deeply regretted the intelligence communicated by the message of hostilities with Mexico. That it was our true policy to cultivate peace with her. That such had been our policy in relation to Mexico and all the South American Republics. That we had hailed their first struggles for liberty and their establishment of Republican Governments, and looked upon them a forming a system of republics opposed to monarchial system of Europe. As the head of the Republican system, it has been our feeling, as it was our true policy, to cherish the kindliest relations and sympathies toward them all. And such had been our course till our late unfortunate difficulties with Mexico, which resulted, as we are now informed in actual hostilities. Mr. C. feared that all had not been done our Executive that might have been done to avoid that result. He hoped the Senator from Arkansas (Mr. SEVIER) might be able to justify, in every particular, the conduct of the President; nut at present he could see no good reason for advancing through disputed territory to the banks of the Rio del Norte, and pointing our cannon at the town of Matamoras. Such a course could hardly fail to be regarded as an insult, and to provoke hostility. As to Gen. Taylor, he knew him well; he was a brave and prudent officer, worthy of all confidence, and he felt assured that he was warranted by his orders in all that he had done.
He said the time would come hereafter for inquiring into the circumstances and causes of the present hostilities; and the scrutiny, he trusted, would be strict, and such as the importance of the event demands. Whoever should be found to have caused the hostility, if it has been caused upon our part, ought to be held to the highest responsibility. Congress alone can constitutionally declare war, and the people of the United States are not to be involved in war by any other authority than that of their own representatives.
There would come a time, however, for that scrutiny. For the present we must provide instantly for the defence of the country. That was our first duty, however hostilities may have been occasioned; and he was prepared to grant at once whatever of men or money was necessary for that purpose. Our country is not at fault, though her servants or agents may be, and it is our duty to stand by her.
But I trust that while we adopt all the warlike measures that the occasion may require we shall be equally unanimous in adopting all the most prompt and efficient means of restoring, if we can, friendly relations with Mexico. We can have no motive in pressing too far on a weak or fallen for. The feeling of Mexico, under all recent occurrences, must naturally be excited and wounded.
Policy and magnanimity require that we should be as forbearing towards her as we can. Our superiority is such as to relieve us from the responsibility of our forbearance or generosity being construed into fear, or ascribed to any improper or unworthy motives. No statesman could render a greater service to his country than by restoring our peace or friendship with Mexico. And so important do I regard it, the if it was in my power, I would, as soon as circumstances would possibly permit, send her a high and honorary embasy of peace—I would appoint Clay, Van Buren, Calhoun, and Benton—any one, two, three, or all of them. Mexico would feel honored by such a mission, and such embassadors would give peace, cordial peace, to the two countries.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Column 5 Words: 790
THE WAR WITH MEXICO, &C
We devote the greater portion of our colums this week to the subject of the war with Mexico and the important proceedings of our government induced by it. We have endeavored, as far as our limited space would permit, to place before our readers an intelligent view of the whole subject, and hope every one will deliberate upon it with that candor and consideration so justly due to its importance. We have not the space this week to enter into any discussion of the point of whether war existed or hostilities existed —to all practical views they are the same in their consequences, especially as they are demonstrated in the actions of the parties now engaged in the “hottest of the work.” We care not now who began the war, or what kind of Statesmanship brought it to the point, the important news which we present in our columns from “the seat or war” shows very plainiy that severe engagement a portion of our gallant army, under Major RINGGOLD, has sustained itself manfully and covered our arms with a glorious victory.
The Proclamation of the President of the United States declares that war now exists between the U. States and Mexico—that is enough for us, as it has been done in obedience to the law passed by the Constitutional War-making power of our Government. That question ought now to be shut and every American Citizen feel it his duty to stand by his country “in heart and soul; in mind and strength.”—We feel assured that the sentiment of the whole people is now with their country, and whatever some may think of the folly of “precipitating the war,” now that it exists, they are for carrying it on vigorously and efficiently. The President has ordered 43,000 men to be enrolled and made ready to be called into service at any moment. The response of the country to the call is prompt, and we have no doubt at all that men enough and more than enough will be found ready and anxious to lend themselves to their country.
The plain duty of the people of the United States now is, to be as one man, and from all that we can see among the “rank and file” but one sentiment prevails, and that is “our country right or wrong.” We cannot pass from this subject without expressing our contempt at the long and windy attempts of “Father RITCHIE” daily blown out in the columns of the “Union” against the Whigs, charging them with want of patriotism, and factiously opposing the Administration in its efforts to vindicate the rights and honor of our country against the invasion of a foreign enemy. The “Union” knows these charges to be false in every particular—the Whigs in Congress voted freely men and money to meet the present condition of affairs—while Mr. CALHOUN and some others of the “Democracy” held back and hurled bitter and withering anathemas at the “Statesmanship” that brought on the war.—Where are the thunders of the “Union” against its own party? Is the Editor of the “Union” afraid to attack Mr. CALHOUN openly, or is he whipping him over the shoulders of the Whigs? We despise a sneaking opponent —and particularly one of these sneaks who talks so boldly and valiantly when no foe is near. As for the Loco Focos making Capital out of this war and appropriating its glory (if victory crowns our arms, of which we have no doubt) to themselves is ridiculous in the extreme. It is not he who talks the most loudly of his patriotism, his courage, and his devotion to the country, that is the most ready to stand up to “the scratch” when “the tug of war” comes. As to the Whigs of the United States their American spirit is of “the right stripe ”—all of their efforts and measures show that. In their domestic policy they are true friends of their own country—in the field of battle they will be found at their posts—we venture to say, that they will not be found “shot in the back”—and that the result will show that “the hottest of the fight” found them in it. We doubt not the courage and patriotism of our political opponents, and we make these remarks not to cast imputations upon them, but to repel unworthy aspersions on our own party and to express our contempt at the untimely lugging into such an emergency as now engages the attention of the country—party politics. We should like mr. RITCHIE to answer one question—are the Democrats of the country willing single handed to undertake the war and fight it through? We think not.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 111
GENERAL MUSTER.
We have been repeatedly asked during the past week why the “REGIMENTAL PARADE” was not published as usual—and when the General Muster was to take place? To the first we replied that we did not know;--to the second query we replied that an Orderly Serjeant told us, that a Second Lieutenant told him, that a First Lieutenant told him, that a Captain told him, that a Major told him, that the Colonel told him that the General Muster was to take place on Saturday the 23d inst. We wonder if the “bold 67th” is disposed to reinforce Gen. TAYLOR? Here is a chance for covering your “Cornstalks” with glory!
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Column 7 Words: 588
FROM THE ARMY.
Conflict between Texan Rangers and the Mexican Troops—General Taylor surrounded—Later from Mexico.
Correspondence [unreadable] Baltimore [unreadable] The mail boat is just in, and it brings an Extra from the N. O. Bulletin, May 9.
FROM THE SEAT OF WAR
By the arrival of the schr. Ellen & Clara, Captain Griffin, from the Brazos St. Jago, accounts from Point Isabel to the morning of the 29th ult., have be received.
The fact, however, that communication had not been had for three days between Point Isabel and the camp of Gen. TAYLOR is alone sufficient to keep anxiety on tip toe.
We learn from Capt. G. and Dr. Briggs, a passenger, who has been several months with the army, and Capt. Walker, formerly of the Texan revenue service, who has been stationed between Point Isabel and Gen. TAYLOR’s camp with a company of twenty-four Texas Rangers, found several of the teams which had started from the Point for the camp were returning and reported that the Mexicans were on the road.
He started from his camp on the 28th with his whole force to reconnoitre; and if possible open a communication with Gen. TAYLOR—He had proceeded as far as about mid-day between Point Isabel and the camp, when an overwhelming Mexican force appeared very suddenly. A portion of his troops were raw recruits. He instructed them to keep on his right, and gave orders to the whole to retire under the cover of a chapperal in view. But his raw troops, panic stricken scattered in confusion.
The Mexicans advancing with overwhelming numbers, he was compelled to retire.—He was followed until a mile of Point Isabel, where he arrived with only two of his men.—Six others subsequently came on.
Capt. W. estimated the number of Mexicans he encountered at 1500, and he supposes that at least thirty fell during the 15 minutes he engaged them.
This force is supposed to be a portion of that which had at last accounts crossed the Rio Grande some 20 or 25 miles above the Matamoras, and which is estimated at 3000 men. It is believed that they had taken a circuitous route on the eastern side of Gen. TAYLOR’s camp.
From the Picayune of the 9th inst.
The greatest apprehension now felt for the American position is that the Mexicans may erect fortifications which command Brassos Santiago. The natural formation of the ground is mostly favorable for such a purpose. The men would be effectually protected from any naval force by the natural embankments, and the position could only be carried by actual storming of the works.
The brig Josephine, Capt. Robinson arrived yesterday at Vera Cruz; had sailed thens on the 26th, three days later than pervious advices. The slood of war John Adams, the only vessel of the United States lying off Sacraficios when the Josephine left; the squadron not then having returned to its anchorage.
The Royal Mail steamer Tweed arrived at Vera Cruz from Tampico on the 24th ult., but the papers say not a word as to the state of things in the latter city.
The latest advices received at Vera Cruz from Matamoras, were to the 15th ult., immediately after the arrival of Gen. AMPUDIA.
His notice to Gen. TAYLOR to retire behind the Neuces was known, and the Vera Cruz people expected to hear of hostilities. We have heard it reported that the British Consul saw the letter from AMPUDIA to Gen. TAYLOR before it was sent, and approved of the same.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 3, Columns 1 and 2 Words: 1345
LATEST!
FROM THE SEAT OF WAR.
AMERICAN TROOPS VICTORIOUS!!
FROM THE N. O. PICAYUNE, EXTRA MAY 11.
Important from the Rio Grande—General Taylor at Point Isabel—Attack on his Camp—Repulse of the Mexicans—Destruction of Matamoras—A general Blockade of the Mexican Ports Ordered!
The steamship New York, Capt. WINDLE, arrived in port on Sunday evening, having left Brazos Santiago the afternoon of Wednesday, the 6th inst. Her news is important, and of the most gratifying description.
Our last previous accounts came down to Wednesday the 29th ult. Capt. WALKER, of the Texas Rangers, having come into Point Isabel on the evening of the 28th ult. From his desperate encounter with the Mexicans, had volunteered to carry despatches to General TAYLOR. We now learn by the New York that in the desperate attempt—so desperate as to be thought fool hardy—he fully succeeded. Gen. TAYLOR learned from him the critical situation in which Point Isabel was placed, and the imminent danger of its being carried by an overpowering force of the Mexicans. He promptly determined upon a movement which should protect Point Isabel and re-establish his communication with his supplies. Accordingly the evening of Friday, the 1st instant, he left his camp opposite Matamoras, with the main body of his forces, determined to cut his way through, leaving behind him for the defence of the works opposite Matamoras between 700 and 800 troops.
This movement of Gen. TAYLOR upon Point Isabel was effected without encountering a single Mexican. In place of molesting him they concentrated their troops about the camp he had just left.
On the morning of the 3d Gen. TAYLOR despatched Capt. WALKER, back to the Camp for intelligence. The gallant Ranger, executed his commission with success, returning to Point Isabel the afternoon of the 5th. He reported that the Mexicans, taking advantage of the supposed weakness of the camp, commenced an attack upon it in front the morning of Sunday, the 3d, with all their batteries from the opposite side of the river, and simultaneously with a detachment of their forces on this side of the Rio Grande, in the rear. The Americans hotly returned the fire. The attack in the rear was immediately repulsed, and in less than thirty minutes the Mexican batters were silenced, and the city of Matamoras battered down. The loss of the Mexicans in the action is variously set down. While no account makes it less than 200, the latest report in regard to it, which we find in the Galveston news, carries it as high as 700. The Americans lost but a single man, it is said who was killed by a shell. None were wounded—so admirable was the state of works before Gen. TAYLOR left them. The town of Matamoras is a complete ruin; there are scarcely houses enough left standing to serve as hospitals for the wounded.
The New Orleans Tropic says:—
“We understand that Major RINGGOLD of the Artillery, commanded in the American camp opposite Matamoras during the engagement with the Mexicans.”
The only written information we have had from the seat of war, comes from Capt. SYMPTON, late of the Revenue service of Texas—now in the employ of Gen. TAYLOR. It is dated May 4. Capt. S. says:
“The news was brought to Point Isabel by our friend WALKER, of Major HAY’s command. The Mexicans made the attack on our [unreadable]. The United States batteries knocked down Matamoras, killing two or three hundred Mexicans—they killing only one of our men, by the explosion of a shell. The works were so completed the Mexican shot could not injure them.”
This attack and repulse, however, is considered but the opening of the campaign.—Cannonading was distinctly heard at times, down to the hour of the departure of the New York. Gen. TAYLOR set forth on the 6th inst. to return to his camp with ample supplies—The Galveston News states that when he left Point Isabel, there was not the slightest doubt entertained that he would have to cut his way to the entrenchments through vastly superior numbers of the enemy, who were known to be posted in large forces among the almost impassable thickets of chaparral on the road, with a determination to cut him off, if possible, in his attempt to regain his other forces. The number of Mexicans is entirely vague and uncertain, though all the statements agree in estimating them at not less than ten thousand, while many accounts put their numbers at 15 or 20 thousand. All accounts agree also in stating that the Mexican forces were rapidly flocking in from all quarters.
How many crossed the river could not be told, though the News think it would be reasonable to presume that a large part of their forces would be brought into requisition to dispute the march of Gen. TAYLOR. They could not but see the importance of cutting him off, and would doubtless employ all their advantages of local knowledge, skill in horsemanship and al their acknowledged recources in stratagem to accomplish their object. Gen. TAYLOR anticipated a formidable and desperate opposition to his march, but determined to accomplish it or perish.
Thus reasons the Galveston News; and accordingly anticipates intelligence of a decisive general action. We are greatly inclined to doubt whether the Mexicans would venture to attack Gen. TAYLOR’s whole force, although they so out-numbered him; but should they do so, we are confident that we shall have a glorious victory to recount. One account before us states, however, that Gen. TAYLOR had not left Point Isabel, and probably would not leave there before the arrival of further re-inforcements—he having full confidence in the ability of the troops left in camp to maintain their position against any odds.
In the skirmishes which Captain WALKER had with the Mexicans, previous to the departure of the Ellen Clara, it is now known that not even the remainder have returned into camp safe.
The bodies of five of them have been found, but owing to the shocking manner in which the Mexicans had mutilated them, Captain WALKER recognised but two, McCLISTER and RADCLIFF.
The U. S. schooner Flirt was to leave the Brazos in a day or two with despatches for New Orleans. The U. S. brig Lawrence was still at the mouth of the Rio Grande, enforcing the blockade. All well on both vessels. Steamer Monmoouth left on the 5th, bound for Aranzas, for the purpose of bringing every man capable of doing military duty, to the camp at St. Ingo.
The arrival of the New York at Point Isabel was most opportune. It will be recollected that she had nearly 200 regular troops on board under Lieut. McPHAIL, as well as several field pieces. These were all safely landed.—Even without the arrival of further reinforcements, the post at Point Isabel must have been so strengthened as to place its safety beyond reasonable doubt. Martial law has been proclaimed there and at Santiago, and every man pressed into service. But ere this, further support has reached Point Isabel from this city and Pensacola.
The accounts from Texas in regard to volunteers are by no means satisfactory. The greatest apathy seems to prevail throughout the country.
Col. HAYS, of the Rangers, with his force of almost 100 men stationed in the San Antonio country, determined to march at once for Gen. TAYLOR’s camp, as soon as he learned that it was in a critical situation, not would it surprise us to hear that Col. HARNEY, with his dragoons, had done the same thing.
While Gen. TAYLOR was at Point Isabel he despatched a schooner, to Vera Cruz, with intelligence of the proceedings upon the Rio Grande. We [unreadable] will at once [unreadable] port on the Gulf.
With great pleasure we see it mentioned in the Bulletin that the commander of the U. S. schooner flirt having observed a small encampment of Mexicans on the island at the mouth of the Brazos Santiago, and knowing the great danger of the point at the entrance of the harbor being in possession of the Mexicans, landed with his men and dispersed the camp. The reader will recollect that the utmost fear was felt that the Mexicans might fortify a position here which would command the approach to Point Isabel.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 3, Column 2 Words: 497
THE GEOGRAPHY OF MEXICO, &C., FROM THE BATTLE GROUND
The New York Sun contains the following description of Mexico, from Matamoras to the Halls of the Montezumas, which cannot but prove interesting at the present time:
“The U. S. army is posted on the left bank of the Rio Grande, opposite Matamoras, at a distance of 90 miles from the coast by the circuitous channel of the river, but only 30 or 40 miles by the route to Point Isabel, a harbor on the coast of Texas, about ten miles north of the Rio Grande. The latter river is the boundary between Texas and Mexico, as claimed by the United States. Mexico contends that the river Nueces is the boundary, and that river was the boundary of the former State of Texas before the Texas Revolution. But Texas claimed to the Rio Grande, as the people of that district joined her in defending the Mexican Constitution of 1842, and in the war of independence which they waged so successfully against the despots of Mexico. From Matamoras to the city of Mexico there is a good road, with five or ten military posts along the route.
“An American army of fifty thousand men, crossing the Rio Grande at Matamoras, could readily march through the country to the city of Mexico. Yucatan, on the south, is already in arms against military despots governing at the Capitol; and the people of Vera Cruz and other States of Central Mexico, are clamorous for the re-call of Santa Anna, (who is now in Cuba,) and the restoration of the Republic. The facilities for intercourse with our army, and with the Mexican people, are favorable to the rapid execution of military operations. From Galveston to Point Isabel is 320 miles by water. New Orleans to Point Isabel is 802 miles. New Orleans to Vera Cruz 1500 miles. Yucatan to the city of Mexico 900 miles.—The population of the city of Mexico is about 180,000. High mountains rise in the distance on all sides of the city, but the location, although under the Tropic of Cancer is remarkable for its salubrity, and in summer the extreme heat is less severe than in New York or Philadelphia.
The city is approached by excellent roads which branch out in every direction, and on which are transported the silver ores and bullion from an hundred of the richest mines in the world. The magnificence of the principal edifices—some being furnished with gold and silver ornaments valued at many millions, and containing rich treasures hid away by the avaricious—has excited the admiration of all travellers. Yet, with all her riches, Mexico is poor. Her people are kept in ignorance by the tyranny of a few, and their wealth is carried off to other lands, to swell the gains of trade and commerce, which they are not to enjoy. The poor Mexican crawls listlessly over neglected silver mines, lost in the contemplation of his own abject condition. The iron hand of despotism is upon him!
[HCH]
Thursday, May 21, 1846, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 3, Column 2 Words: 275
WHY ARE WE AT WAR?
A Washington correspondent of the N. Y. Herald speaks, right out in meetin’, as follows:
“Why, or [unreadable], were the troops of Gen. Taylor pushed forward to the Eastern branch of the Rio del Norte, is a question frequently asked, but rarely answered satisfactorily. I will now give you the true solution of the question. By the terms of Annexation with Texas, that State held in its own hands its public hands, in order to cover its floating debt. On investigation, it was found that in Texas proper, the whole public domain had been squandered away by the Government of the Republic, and consequently the holders of the amount of Texas scrip, lost all hope of being paid from that source.
It then became necessary to plunder Mexico of a large portion of the three States of New Mexico, Coahuilla and Chihuahua, and all of New Mexico which lies between the Bravo del Norte and the river Nueces, West of which stream the Republic of Texas never had either civil or military jurisdiction, nor even the shadow of a claim other than that arising from an act of its Legislature, which declared the Bravo to be the Western boundary of the republic; yet, if at the cost of so much blood, treasure and national honor, the United States will plunder Mexico of the vast territory lying between the Nueces and Bravo, the State of Texas will claim the whole territory, and then be able to pay her national debt. Who can tell what amount of Texas scrip is held by the members of the present party, who have projected this species of plunder and robbery?”
[HCH]
Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 201
BERKLEY VOLUNTEERS.
We understand that the “Berkley Volunteers for Mexico” at present under the temporary command of Capt. JOSEPH BURNS, will hold a meeting for the election of Officers on Saturday evening next, the 30th inst.
The proceedings of Congress do not present at this moment many details of general interest. Mr. BENTON has not yet concluded his speech upon the Oregon question; his speech is very highly spoken of. The correspondent of the Balt. American says “the research and information and hard study embodied in the speech is almost beyond belief.—The position is strongly demonstrated, that as a matter of right we are bound to compromise the Oregon question upon the line of 49. England having no reasonable claim to the Valley of the Columbia river, and the United States not the shadow of a claim to the country watered by Frazier’s river.”
Mr. BRINKERHOFF of Ohio has proposed a “Joint Resolution” thanking Gen. TAYLOR and his Army for their gallant defence of the Country in the recent engagement with the Mexican forces, and also allowing to each officer, non commissioned officers and private, one month’s extra pay. The matter was laid over until official despatches were received from Gen. TAYLOR.
[HCH]
Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12, Page 2, Columns 2 and 3 Words: 1725
VOLUNTEERS FOR MEXICO—REGIMENTAL PARADE—CHAS. J. FAULKNER’S SPEECH—VISIT OF POTOMAC DRAGOONS.
The exciting intelligence from “the Seat of War” which we spread in detail before our readers this week, will prevent us from taking as extended a notice of the proceedings of Saturday the last in this place, as we had originally designed to have done. But we cannot pass them by without such a notice as their importance and interest deserve. “Old Berkeley” ever true to the calls of patriotism, has been aroused by the trump of war, and the exciting intelligence almost every day pouring in upon us from “the Seat of War,” and being eager to bear her share in the honor of defending the soil of our country from the invasion of an insulting faithless and ungrateful foe, has set about organizing a “Volunteer Company” composed of gallant young men who intend offering themselves to the Government for service in the war now existing between this Country and the Republic of Mexico. We are delighted to see this demonstration of the patriotism of our young Countrymen, and should their services be required in the field of battle we venture to say that they will render efficient aid to their country, and cover themselves and their Native County with honor. The “Berkeley Volunteers” now number about fifty men, “good and true,” and there is not the least doubt of a full and efficient company being made up in a few days.
On Saturday last, the 23d inst., the “Regimental Parade” took place at this town, and of course the whole Military force of the County was assembled, and we have never seen the 67th Regiment look better, or display more efficiency and knowledge in the drill. After marching to the field, and going through with the usual exercises they were drawn up into column by Maj. SINCINDIVER in front of the stand erected for the purpose, where they and the citizens of the County were addressed by our able and patriotic Fellow Citizen, CHARLES JAMES FAULKNER, Esq., (who ahd been invited to do so by the Volunteers for Mexico) for upwards of an hour in an eloquent exposition of the causes, &c., of the war now existing between this Country and the Republic of Meixo. The crowd present amounted to fully one thousand persons and we have never seen a more profound attention or a more intense interest excited in a people—an interest manifesting itself in grave and thoughtful consideration becoming the solemn emergency of the Country—and showing itself in a determination to unite “in heart and sould, in mind and streng