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| 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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
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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.”
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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?”
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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.
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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 strength” in defence of our common country, and in an earnest support of every measure necessary to be adopted by the Government to carry out successfully and efficiently the war in which we are now engaged.
We can do no more from memory than give a mere skeleton of the able speech of Mr. C. J. FAULKNER—and shall confine ourselves to a short sketch of his argument which we think will fully represent his views. We must here take occasion to express our admiration at the liberal offer made by Mr. FAULKNER, to each and every volunteer from the County of Berkeley, who would continue in service for a period of twelve months, and receive an honorable discharge, or to their heirs if killed, (in addition to their pay from Government) one hundred and fifty acres of land in the State of Texas, and expressed his determination so soon as the Company was formed, to deposit his obligation to that effect with their commanding officer. This is a very liberal offer, and speaks well for the patriotic sprit of the donor.
SPEECH OF C. J. FAULKNER, ESQ.
The Military and Citizens of Berkeley being drawn up into line, Mr. FAULKNER arose and opened his speech with a brief and animated exordium—glancing at the gratifying and inspiring scene around him, --and thanking God that he had the privilege as the Organ of the Volunteers now forming for the Mexican War, to meet with the Military and people of Berkeley County, and to address them upon the grave and solemn crisis now existing in our National Affairs.
He then entered into a review of the causes which produced the existing relations between this country and Mexico, and vindicated the policy and action of the Government in transferring the Army of Occupation, after the rejection of Mr. SLIDELL, from the Neuces to the East Bank of the Rio Grande. He maintained the present to be a just and necessary war, demanded by the honor and interests of the Nation, and forced upon us by the faithless and insulting conduct of the Mexican Government. Upon our part it had been so far wholly defensive, notwithstanding our territory had been invaded and the blood of our citizens shed upon our own soil. But he hoped we should not continue to occupy a defensive attitude any longer. He held it to be the imperious duty of the Government now to prosecute the war with energy and vigor and to bring it to a triumphant close at the earliest day possible. He wished to see a formidable and well appointed army placed under immediate orders to march to the city of Mexico and there to dictate, without delay, the terms of an honorable peace, and to require full indemnity for the expenses of the war. It could never be tolerated that a neighboring nation like Mexico should occupy towards us the hostile and menacing attitude which she has exhibited for the last twelve months; husbanding her resources and concentrating her energies to strike a blow upon our Southern frontier, whenever our difficulties with European powers should be such as to justify her in the expectation that she could strike such a blow with impunity. Our National Safety and National Honor both require that we should compel her to resume her friendly relations with us, or to disarm her of the means of future aggression and annoyance.
He spoke with approval of the law passed by Congress on the 13th of the present month—explained its provisions and hoped the call for Volunteers would be properly responded to by the country. He appealed to the young men of the County of Berkeley who were free from embarrassment of family ties, and who were possessed of stout hearts and vigorous bodies to seize the occasion to carve out for themselves a glorious destiny in life. How many (he asked) of that description were there in our little community, now without profitable occupation or employment, who were at this moment ignorant of the elements of greatness in them, and who would continue to remain so until the stirring incidents of a soldier’s life should develope them. He pointed them to the examples of Captains WALKER and THORNTON—young men a few years ago unknown—who were everywhere at this time the theme of honor’s tongue—acquiring distinction and renown and in a rapid career of advancement to the first honors of their country.
He then spoke of the Country of Berkeley, and said she had always been prompt in every emergency to contribute her full quota to the defence of the Country. In almost every important engagement during the war of the Revolution, the valor of her sons was conspicuous. Their patriotism was exhibited on the plains of Boston; on the fields of Brandywine; on the banks of the Ohio, and at the decisive and crowning victory at Yorktown. It was equally displayed in the late war on the Canada frontier, and on the sands of Norfolk. He wished to hear her fame now re-echoed from the Savannahs of the Rio Grande and the Halls of the Montezumas.
He felt so lively an interest in the success of the movement now contemplated—the organization of a Volunteer Corps from this County for the Mexican War—that he would take the liberty of adding to the provision made by law for Volunteers under the late Act of Congress, a promise on his own part to give to each and every Volunteer from the County of BERKELEY, who would continue in service for a period of twelve months and receive an honorable discharge, or to their heirs, if killed, one hundred and fifty acres of land in the State of Texas; and it was his purpose, so soon as the Company was organised, to deposit such obligation with their commanding officer.
He concluded with an earnest and eloquent appeal to the patriotism of the gallant young men of Berkeley to come forward at once and enroll themselves for the war, which appeal was promptly responded to by the addition of several gallant and efficient men to the list, among whom was our contemprary, Mr. EPHRAIM G. ALBURTIS, Editor of the “Virginia Republican.”
The interest of the day was much enhanced by a visit from the POTOMAC DRAGOONS, from Sharpsburg, Maryland, under command of the Major Commanding THOS. G. HARRIS. The Dragoons excited the universal attention and admiration of every beholder, and their visit will long be remembered with pride by the people of Berkeley. We have never witnessed a troop of Cavalry under better drill; they understand their profession, and should they be called into the service of their country they will honor themselves and add another unfading wreath of glory to the fame of “the Maryland Line.” After the Regiment returned from the review, the Officers in company, with our distinguished visiters, at the invitation of Mr. FAULKNER, marched to his residence, where they were entertained by him in his usual agreeable and handsom style. Our Maryland friends were also handsomely entertained by the Officers of our Regiment at Mr. ODEN’s Hotel. They went through a number of beautiful evolutions in the Square, and after a short and appropriate address of thanks from Col. E. P. HUNTER, on behalf of his Regiment, and a reply by Maj. HARRIS, they took up their line of march for their homes, and, as will be seen by the annexed Card, were highly pleased with their visit.
WE are much pleased to learn that Gov. PRATT, of Maryland, has offered the post of Colonel to Maj. HARRIS, under the late requisition of the President upon Maryland for her quota of Volunteers for the Mexican war, and that he has accepted the honor.
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 532
THE WAR NEWS
The news which we publish this week from “the Seat of War,” is well calculated to produce a most powerful sensation throughout the country. It is true, victory—glorious victory crowns our arms, yet some of the best blood has been shed by the foe. This blood must be atoned for—we hope to see 50,000 volunteers at once called into service—and our Navy sent to bombard every Mexican sea port within reach of our gins. The work has begun—let it not stop short of the “halls of the Montezumas.” The faithless and ungrateful conduct of Mexico deserves the “rod of chastisement”—she has insulted our flag—invaded our soil—robbed and murdered our people, and although in pity for her weakness we have forborne—“forbearance has now ceased to be a virtue.” If she cannot understand forbearance and magnanimity upon the part of a Sister Republic00she should be made to understand the force of just retribution at the point of the bayonet. We commend the annexed sensible extract from an article from an article in the “New Orleans Courier” to every reader. In our judgement it points out the true road to a short and victorious campaign. March at once to the City of Mexico.
“When the reinforcements which left this place last night and this morning, join Gen. TAYLOR, the troops under his command, including those at Point Isabel and opposite Matamoras will amount to about 8000. This force will be sufficient to repel any attack upon his works at both places, and to keep open the communications between the two. But to occupy a position on the western side bank of the river, and penetrate into the interior of Mexico, a much larger force will be necessary. It would be an ill-advised and unfortunate measure to relax in the slightest degree the exertions to raise more troops. All the able bodied men that can be procured should be received, and valid inducements should be held out to volunteers. This war with Mexico will not be finished by one battle, the capture of two or three towns, the bombardment of the sea ports and the blockade of the coast. The Mexicans are a proud and ignorant, and therefore an obstinate race. They will hold out, passively, until their capital is occupied by an American army, and the greater part of their country overrun. To attain these objects, fifty thousand troops will be necessary—although they could be accomplished with less—but in military operations the safest plan is to have your means in full proportion to the end in view, and to leave as little as possible to chance.
“The government of the United States can raise fifty thousand troops with as much ease as they could raise five thousand for the Mexican War—and we doubt not they will begin with a force equally adequate to the purpose of chastising the enemy, and giving him to understand the power of this country.
It is useless to speculate at this time to speculate upon the plan of conducting the war, which our government will adopt. The Mexican ports on the Pacific are at the mercy of the squadron
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 242
IMPORTANT NEWS
From the Seat of War
The American Army Triumphant!
THE MEXICANS TWICE ROUTED AND 1000 KILLED!
THE ENEMY GUNS CARRIED AT THE POINT OF THE BAYONET!
THE BRAVE AND GALLANT MAJOR RINGGOLD KILLED IN DEFENCE OF HIS COUNTRY
GEN. VEJA TAKEN PRISONER
FROM THE BALTIMORE SUN, MAY 25.
We issued on Saturday night, in an extra, in full confidence of its being literally correct, a telegraphic account of the news from the Seat of War, entertaining the hope that the portion which related to the death of Major RINGGOLD might prove unfounded.
We have since received confirmatory accounts from our N. Orleans contemporaries, which we annex. Though glorious news accompanying it will prove very cheering to every American heart, the melancholy death of Major RINGGOLD, and the other distinguished officers, as well as of the brave hearts who fought under them, cannot but cause a pang of sorrow and regret.
The Washington Union introduces these details, with the annexed remarks:
“It may well be that the reports from camp are considerably exaggerated; but there can be little doubt, we think, that some conflict of importance has taken place between the two armies. That part of the account which represents a large portion of Commodore CONNER’s squadron as being concentrated near the mouth of the Del Norte, strikes us as very improbable.
“We have, however, had no opportunity since the arrival of the mail to make particular inquiries upon the subject. The account given in the correspondence of the Tropic appears to be exaggerated in its tone, and we notice some confusion in the dates of the different accounts. The details may, however, turn out to be substantially correct; and if so, they reflect the highest honor upon our gallant army.”
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words 1133
Confirmatory Accounts.
TWENTY THOUSAND MEXICANS MARCHING TO MATAMORAS!
From the Mobile Daily Advertiser, Extra.
Monday, May 18, 10 A,M.
FROM THE SEAT OF WAR—GLOROUS INTELLIGENCE!—TRIUMPH OF THE AMERICAN ARMS!—GENL. TAYLOR AGAIN VICTORIOUS! ROUTE OF THE MEXICAN ARMY!!
[PER STEAMER COL. HARNEY AT N. ORLEANS]
Correspondence of the Tropic
Announcement of the coming of Volunteers—Unexpected arrival of Com. Conner at Brazos Santiago—Gen. Taylor starts for Matamoras—Com. Conner reinforces Point Isabel—Excitement—News from the Battle Field—Retreat—Caprure of Artillery—Mexican officer shot by his own men—Capt. Page wounded—Lousiana Volunteers—Uncle Sam’s Sailors on shore.
Since my last (not received) we have had two arrivals, the New York and brig Millaudon. The last brought the news that six steamboats with four thousand volunteers were about starting when she left. This news made us most cheerful, as we could not have then expected the result that has since taken place with our troops.
Despatches had been sent to Vera Cruz by Gen. T., contents to us subs unknown; but rumor would have it that the aforesaid Vera Cruz was to have been bombarded. Judge of our surprise, then, when at daylight on the next morning after the whole squadron (Falmouth excepted) appeared off our harbor. The commodore had not received the despatches from her, but was informed at Vera Cruz that the Mexicans had marched 6,000 or 7,000 troops across by land to assist Gen. ARISTA in whipping Gen. TAYLOR.
Gen. T. left Point Isabel with little over 400 men to defend it. Maj. MUNROE, commanding here, sent a requisition to Commodore CONNER for as many men as he could spare, as we heard firing about 2 P.M. of the 8th, which continued with but little intermission until dark. Com. C. sent ashore 250 men, and on the 9th 400 or 500 more, which makes this place strong enough to withstand an attack against 20,000 men.
Com. C., therefore thought very wisely that his presence here would do some good in the way of reinforcements. Gladly was he welcomed, Gen. TAYLOR had marched out evening previous to meet and conquer the enemy, taking with him, twenty-two hundred men, teamsters included, with two hundred and fifty teams loaded with ammunitions, provisions, &c., which the Mexicans were no doubt appraised of, as the teams had been loaded ever since Monday last, awaiting the orders for a march at a moments warning.
Believe me when I say there was the greatest excitement here the afternoon of the 8th , as we could plainly hear the cannonading from the field of battle.
On the evening of the 8th, Mr. MURRAY and Mr. BASON volunteered to go and find out the result.
On the morning of the 9th, a black boy came into camp, gave a history of the fight, which was about time, but as he had run away and left his team, he was not believed.
At 3 p.m. of the 9th, Messrs M. and B. returned and stated as follows:
They got to Gen. TAYLOR’s present camp, sixteen miles from here at 3 p.m. there learned that the army marched until about thirteen miles from here, when they saw the Mexicans drawn up in battle array across his road. He immediately gave his orders for the teams halt until the 2d brigade had passed. The Mexicans were on the prairie near the edge of the chapparel. When Gen. TAYLOR got within about three quarters of a mile, they opened upon him with their flying artillery. Gen. TAYLOR arrived with Capt. DUNCAN and Maj. RINGGOLD’s companies and at it they went until about sunset, when the Mexicans retreated to the edge of the chaparel, and ceased firing.
After which Gen. TAYLOR fired ten or fifteen guns at them, and set to work throwing up two breast-works. At daylight the Mexicans were in the edge of the chapparel. A council of war was held by Gen. TAYLOR, and it was agreed that one brigade should advance up to the chapparel, in hopes to draw the Mexicans into a renewal of the fight, but the more the troops advanced upon them, the more they weren’t there—the Mexicans having retreated leaving three pieces of artillery, any quantity of ammunition, from FOUR TO SIX HUNDRED DEAD upon the field, and God only knows how many wounded that they took away. One Mexican who was stationed at one of their batteries , says every body but himself at the batteries was killed—says the guns beat anything they ever dreamed of they were so quick. One of the Mexican officers, in trying to rally his men, found he could not , and commenced to cut them with his sword, when his troops shot him dead. We had eleven killed, and about ten mortally wounded.
Capt. PAGE, of the 3 rd, had all the lower parts of his face shot off with a cannonball—it is thought he will recover, though horribly mutilated. Major RINGGOLD had the fleshy part of both legs shot through, and horse killed—none of his bones were broken, which is wonderful. Our informant says the field of battle was strewed with the dead, and they could hear the groans of the Mexican wounded all night at Gen. T.’s camp. The Mexicans were commanded by Gen. Mejia. There is no doubt they have retreated across the river. When the volunteers arrive you may depend you will hear of them “revelling in the halls of the Montezumas,” or peace and good will be whipped into those bombastic Mexicans. It is a matter of surprise that so few were lost on our side.
The monotony of this place has been relieved by the drilling of “Uncle Samuel’s” “web feet,” or “barnacle backs” that came here from the squadron. You would be surprised to see with what dexterity and precision they go through their evolutions with muskets, and no one could resist a laugh to hear some of their sayings. One old salt said this morning “Damn and blast my eyes! Here is a ship ashore, and poor Jack on his beam ends.” This speech was addressed to himself when looking on the tent that had been pitched, and was of sufficient dimensions to hold about fifty-two.
One third of the whole number of the men from the squadron are marines, the balance tars. I should picture to myself a soldier riding horse back, or a cow, as soon as that I should see four or five hundred sailors going into war with muskets on their shoulders; but you could not restrain than from going against the Mexicans with only a knife and a fork; if you would only show them a chance, for they are all “eager for the fray.”
Yours, &c.
In the decisive battle Gen. TAYLOR lost about sixty klled and wounded, among whom three were officers, viz: Lieut. INGES, of the dragoons, Lieut COCHRAN, of the 8 th infantry. Among the wounded are Col. MACINTOSH, of the 5th infantry; Lieut Col. PAYNE, 4th artillery; and Capt. HOOK, 5th infantry—most of them slightly, and none supposed mortally.
Maj. RINGGOLD, well known as the commander of the flying artillery, also died on the 11 th from wounds received in action on the 8th.
Capt. PAGE, who was wounded in the same engagement, we are happy to state, is rapidly recovering. Lieut. LUTHER, also slightly wounded is convalescent.
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 1302
[From the N.O. Tropic—Third Edition, 1 p.m.]
STILL LATER FROM THE ARMY.
THE GALVESTON ARRIVED—The Galveston is just in, having left Brazos Santiago on the evening of the 13th inst. We hasten to lay the news by her before our readers.
[From the Galveston Civilian of the 15th]
On the morning of the 13th, Gen. TAYLOR and his staff, with the guard that had brought down the train, &c., started for his camp. He was met by an express a few miles from Point Isabel, informing him that 8,000 fresh troops had crossed the Matamoras, 2,000 of which had crossed over, 1,100had crossed the Rio Grande at Barrita, near the Bocachica, not more than 8 miles from Point Isabel. Gen. Taylor returned to Point Isabel at once, and made prepearations to leave the next day, with such forces as were arriving.
The steamship Galveston landed 450 infantry, (regulars and volunteers;) the Augusta landed about 250; Capt PRICE arrived via Padre island from Corpus Christi, with his 70 mounted rangers. They all reached the point on the 13th . The Telegraph and JAN L. DAY will doubtless land their troops, amounting to upwards of 800, at Point Isabel on the 14th. Great credit is due to Capt. JEREMIAH of the steamship Cincinnati, and Capt R. McBAKkER of the Monmouth, for the skill, energy, and promptness shown in management of their boats in transporting troops and supplies across the bay at Brazos Santiago.
Gen. PARADES is at the head of 15,000 troops on his way to Matamoras. It may be possibly be that the fresh troops arrived at Matamoras is the advance division of his army. No doubt the enemy were fully advised that Gen. TAYLOR had left for Point Isabel, and their plan is to try and capture him on his return, whilst a strong force crossing the river is to come down upon his army. Gen TAYLOR appeared highly pleased with the intelligence; for since the war has opened , and no mistake, the excitement and activity attending the operation, opens a new era to his vigorous achievements, and all have marked how much better he looks than when confined to the “masterly inactivity” of the Corpus Christi campaign.
THE FORT
The Mexicans have continued their firing into the fort opposite Matamoras, nearly ever since Gen. TAYLOR left the works.
The brave and gallant Maj. BROWN died on--,from a wound received in his thigh by the explosion of one of the enemy’s shells. His wound was not considered dangerous, but he was placed in one of the bomb-proof burrows, mortification ensued, from the want of fresh air. His death is deeply deplored by the army, his intrepid conduct in foiling every attempt of the enemy to reduce the fort prepared them in a measure to anticipate the result of these conflicts with our brave army.
The strength of the fort and skill which it is defended is incomprehensible to the Mexicans, and indeed, well might be, for they have thrown upwards of 1,400 shot and shell into the works, and every morning the present the same appearance; our loss has only been two or three in the fort The constant practice the enemy have had in firing at it, has taught them the proper bearing to give their guns, and almost every shot falls within the works. The fort is never idle, and the ramparts and dwellings of Matamoras exhibit ruins as plainly as those of a hundred centuries when gaping forth their lamentation of lo! And behold what desolation is here?
The sloop-of-war St.Mary’s arrived from Pensacola on the 10th; the steamer Mississippi on the 12th, from Vera Cruz. The Bainbride is off the Rio Grande, enforcing the blockade. The schooner Flirt sailed for New Orleans on the 7th.
It is stated that an expedition is to be sent by boats of the squadron to take the town of Barita, 16 miles from the mouth of the river, where there is a military force.
Gen. VEGA is the Col. VEGA that was captured by the Texas forces at the slaughter of San Jacinto, and is a brave and accomplished officer.
[Correspondence from the New Orleans Tropic]
Brazos Santiago, may 13.
At the receipt of the news of the first battle, I wrote you a short account; the result of the second is now on hand, and is most decisive. It now appears that the Mexicans had only 5,000 men in the field at the first battle, and four thousand stowed away in the chapparel near the battle ground. It was their intention to have made but a slight attack the first day, but being so closely pressed they were obliged to fight or make good their retreat to where the four thousand were in the chapparel. In the first fight a general officer had his head shot off; it is not yet ascertained who he was, as his body was recognized by his dress as he lay upon the field.
Gen. TAYLOR advanced the morning of the first battle into the chapparel, then sent 800 picked men under the charge of Capt. McCALL to reconnoitre; he advanced unmolested until near 3 P.M., (the army following at a distance) when Capt.McCALL sent word to Gen. TAYLOR that he had received a charge of grape from the enemy, and lost two men.
The army was then deployed, and Capt. MAY, 2nd dragoons ordered to charge the battery that had thrown the grape, and to take it if he lost every man; he obeyed orders, took the battery of four guns, and lost but one man . The battery was commanded by Gen. De La VEGA, who was taken prisoner.
Our little army then rent the air with their huzzas , and rushing shouting upon the enemy, commited the most dreadful havoc among them, taking eight pieces of artillery, 155,000 rounds of cartridge, and 500 packed mules. Gen ARISTA’s camp bedsteads contained all his private and public baggage paper, which the latter will be of great value, as we now not only have the key of the whole campaign, which will enable Gen. TAYLOR to form his plans so as to entirely defeat their designs.
We took all and every thing they had, four hundred prisoners and the army baggage. The enemy had between 8,000 and 9,000 troops in the two battles, but we with 1,800 troops completely routed them.
We exchanged prisoners, got Capt. THORNTON, HARDEE and his little band. Our officers while prisoner were well treated having lived with AMPUDIA ever since they were taken. Gen. TAYLOR would not exchange for Lieut. DEAS as a prisoner of war , as it would be sanctioning his crossing the river, which he did not, having reprobated his crossing in the severest manner.
In this second and glorious battle, we lost about the same number of men as in the first, but had more officers wounded. Capt. WALKER with his heroic band of rangers was the last that fired at the Mexicans. The army left him and his comrades on the bank of the river, shooting them as they attempted to cross.
To-morrow Gen. TAYLOR leaves here to make an attack on Matamoras, in connection with Con. CONNER, who has sent a boat expedition up the river.
I forgot to mention that Gen. TAYLOR arrived here yesterday, with all our wounded, between 50 and 60, with Gen. ROMULES DE LA VEGA, one Mexican captain and two Lieutenants who go with this letter to Col. HARNEY.
The Augusta, from New Orleans, arrived last evening. The mules from Matamoras, some 500, were sent in to day, as well as the Mexicans wounded.
I should not forget to mention that all the shell, ball, and grape shot of the Mexicans are made of brass and copper. This letter I must close, with details of glory enough for one day.
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 205
FURTHER ITEMS OF WAR NEWS
The Mexicans outnumbered Gen. TAYLOR in the proportion of four to one; they had their choice of position, and selected one extremely advantageous; they were driven from it with great loss, and forced across the Rio Grande—and the victory has been stained by not act of cruelty on our part.
In the casualties which were reported in our postscript of the morning, we have some corrections to make. By the official report of the action, it appears that Col. McINTOSH is not killed, but desperately wounded. Maj. BROWN-not Col., as we stated –was killed in command of Fort Taylor by the explosion of a shell. The following is as complete a list of the officers killed and wounded on our side, in both actions as, we have been able to obtain:
Killed—Maj. Brown, 7 th infantry—Wounded in Fort Taylor—died on the 10th ; Major RINGGOLD, 3d artillery—wounded on the 8th and died on the 10th; Lieut. INGES, 2d Dragoons; Lieut. COCHRANE, 4 th Infantry; Lieut CHADBURNE, 8th Infantry.
Wounded—Lieut. Col. McINTOSH, 5th Infantry; Lieut Col. PAYNE, 4th Artillery; Capts. PAGE (in the action of the 8th) Hook, MONTEGOMERY; Lieuts. LUTHER (in the action of the 8th) GATES, SELDON, McCLURE, BURBANK, JORDAN, FOWLER.
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 272
We make room for the following letter:
CAMP VICTORY, NEAR MATAMORAS,
May 11th , 1846.
Gents: I presume some gentlemen having more leisure than myself will transmit you a detailed account of one of the hardest fought battles which has occurred in any country since the war of the Revolution. I will only say then, that about two thousand men of our much abused little army met on the 8 th instant, with six thousand chosen Mexican troops under Gen. ARISTA, the latter having chosen their position, the former being upon their march from Point Isabel to this place—encumbered moreover with a train of near three hundred wagons.
You observe the advantage which they had not only in numbers, but in every thing else. We have beaten them shamefully and driven them across the Rio Grande—have captured their whole park of artillery, and almost every thing they had with them. We have buried hundreds of their dead, and I understand will send over to them one hundred of their wounded. We have had three engagements with them. Their killed, and wounded and missing has not yet been ascertained. Gen. TAYLOR sent over yesterday permission to Gen. ARISTA to send over Doctors to assist in taking care of his wounded—they came over last night, and reported forty-eight of Mexican officers missing while we lost but three.
This morning those gallant dragoons captured from us some weeks since, are to be brought over and exchanged—we might give ten for one.
You will receive a full account soon of this glorious battle, the last (I think) that we shall have with the Mexicans. Our loss has been comparatively light. Our wounded all doing well.
Yours.
OLD FRIEND
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 16
Gen. TAYLOR left Point Isabel on the 13th, instead of the 11th, as we inadvertently stated.
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 1106
FURTHER ITEMS OF INTELLIGENCE
An extra from the New Orleans Bee, dated at 1 o’clock, P.M., contains the following items:
In this second engagement 45 Americans were reported to be killed. In the Mexican side the loss was very considerable, but we were unable to count their number. We conversed with several Mexican prisoners on board the Harney, who stated that the Mexican forces did not amount to more than 3000 or 4000, and were under the command of ARISTA.
We have the following verbal intelligence from one of the Dragoons of the U.S. Army: those men which were under his orders, so others having yet arrived.
He states that Gen. TAYLOR came in sight of the enemy, their number appeared so large he exclaimed: “Friends, we must vanquish or die;” saying which he ordered the Dragoons to charge on the Mexican Artillery. They immediately, obeyed their Commander’s order, and made such an onslaught on them that they were compelled to abandon nine field pieces and seek their safety in flight. The pieces captured were brought to the camp.
Our information further states that the Mexicans retreated in confusion to the other side of the Rio Grande, and that he was among those who pursued them up tp the river. Several Mexicans were drowned in attempting to cross. He is not positive whether the whole or part only of the Mexican army attempted to recross the Rio Grande.
The Mexicans, he adds, stood their ground pretty well at the commencement of the action, and that throughout it was well contested. He estimates probable loss on the American side at about 100 or 130, and on the part of the Mexicans at about 700 or 1,000.
Here are names of the Mexican prisoners arrived per steamer Col. Harney—Gen. Don ROMILIO DIAS DE LA VEGA and Lieuts Don ALIEJANDRO PRADA and SILVERIO VELEZ.
An extra from the office of the N.O. Troppic also contains the following additional items of intelligence:
As soon as Gen. ARISTA arrived at Matamoras, he sent at once a flag to exchange such prisoners as he had at Matamoras. He showed great anxiety to get back Gen. VEJA, offering to exchange two or three officers for him; but Gen. TAYLOR had sufficient to make the exchange without giving up Gen. VEJA. It has been said that Gen. TAYLOR offered the latter his parole of honor, which he declined accepting, on the ground that if he returned he would be forced to bear arms again by his Government.
The redoubtable Gen. Ampudia, commanded the 2d division of the Mexican army. It is said he was the first man to make good his escape to Matamoras, where he reported that ARISTA had betrayed the army. Capt AMOS came up as an especial express with despatches from Com. CONNER.
Gen. ARISTA Commanded the Mexican army and was present at the battle.
Seventeen hundred Mexican troops, who had crossed the Rio Grande at Bareta, below Matamoras, upon hearing of the defeat of their main army by Gen. Taylor The Galveston brought up three of the field pieces captured by Gen. Taylor.
From the Austin Democrat of the 6th inst. we learn that Gov. HENDERSON, under instructions from Gen. TAYLOR, has made a requisition upon the militia of the State for several companies of mounted men into the field to operate against Mexico. These troops constituting a regiment, are to be stationed as follows:
Five companies in the vicinity of San Antonio; one at the city of Austin, one at or noear New Bauntele.
The last Austin Democrat states that news has reached Austin, from good authority, the Camanches refuse to treat or meet the U.S. Commissioners, and the inference of the Indians have been tampered with by the Mexican emissaries. The Governor, under, at the request of the Legislature, was to appoint Commissioners to ascertain the situation and disposition of the Indians; while further steps were to be taken to protect the frontier settlements from their depredations, should they be disposed to acts of hostility.
The New Orleans Bee states that the knapsacks of those killed were examined and found to contain nothing but corn and alt.
While the battle was being fought, two companies of Mexican artillery came down to Cross Bocha Chica, and marched up the beach to take possession of our vessels with stores, which were obliged to anchor very near the Point. Our flag ship Cumberland got under way and ran down towards them—seeing which they wheeled and returned back.
A correspondent of the New Orleans Bulletin, writing from Point Isabel on the evening of the 12th inst., remarks—
“Many instances occurred of our men handing their canteens to the wounded Mexicans, and turning from them to fire upon others. There was not a single occurrence of cruelty toward the enemy. The morale of the army is at its highest—it can now accomplish anything, and they would die for a commander who does not ask them to go where he is not willing to lead, and in whose judgement they fully confide.
The following particulars of the capture of Gen. VEGA by Capt. MAY is copied from a letter in the Picayune:
“The battle commenced by heavy cannonading on both sides. Gen. TAYLOR, in passing his lines, accosted Capt. MAY of the 2d dragoons, and told him—‘Your regiment has never done anything yet—you must take that battery.’ He said nothing, but turned to his command and said—‘We must take that battery—follow!’ He made a charge with three companies—at least the remainder of three companies—supported by the 5th and 8th regiments of Infantry. They cleared the breastworks, rode over the battery, wheeled and came through the enemy’s lines, whilst the fire of the Infantry was so deadly in its effect as to carry all before it. Capt. MAY made a cut at an officer as he charged through. On his return he found him standing between cannon wheels—fighting like a hero. He ordered him to surrender. He was asked if he was an officer? Capt. MAY answered him in the affirmative, when he presented his sword remarking, ‘You receive Gen. VEGA as a prisoner of war.”
The Galveston Civilian, speaking of Gen. ARISTA’s correspondence, which fell into the hands of Gen. TAYLOR says—
The plan of the campaign, and the instructions from Gen. ARISTA’s government, ordered him to take possession of Point Isabel; this was to be the brief act of hostility, he was to fortify it as strongly as possible. He was likewise ordered to take possession of the mouth of the river and fortify it at once.
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 1419
From the “Diario Official,” (city of Mexico,)
April 24, 1846.
A PROCLAMATION
Manifesto of his Excellency the President Ad Interim of the Republic of to the Nation.
On assuming in the beginning of this year, the heavy responsibility of guiding the destiny of the nation during a short period. I determined resolutely no change its policy from its weak and pernicious system of temporizing, which has been observed with regard to the United States of America, notwithstanding the perfidy with which that government prepared for the occupation of Texas, its treacherous violation of the existing treaties which guarantee the limits of the republic, and the insidious act by which it incorporated one of our departments into its own confederacy. The Mexican nation did not conquer its independence by the most bloody and heroic of sacrifices, nor place itself among the civilized powers of the world in order to become the sport of a neighboring nation, which, taking advantage of our quarrels and unfortunate disturbances, and the exaggerated idea of our weakness, founded upon them appeared with all the appliances of conquest, and entered upon the invasion of our territory, indulging in the dream that is could extinguish the manly race to which we belong, placing upon our foreheads the brand borne by slaves is its Southern States, destroying our nationality and abandoning us to the humiliating misery of oblivion. This magnanimous people which, in a struggle of eleven years of blood and extermination, proved its boldness no less than its constancy, was waiting with impatience, to rush forward into another war to which it was called by the scandalous aggressions of a government declaring itself our friend, but at the same time aiming to prostrate us, relying on its power, and not caring to support itself on the titles of equity and justice which all nations respect, which strengthen the hopes of peace, and maintain the harmony of the universe. It was for this reason that the nation sanctioned the movement which I began at San Luis Potosi, not in order to place myself in the painful possession of power, but that my country may shine by the triumph of a cause which is the cause of the conservative principles of human society.
The old grievances, the offences against the Mexican nation, which, have been incessantly repeated since 1836, had been consummated by the insult of sending us a minister, to be accredited near our government in the character of a residing minister, as if the relations between the two republics had not suffered any disturbance by the definite act of the annexation of Texas. At the very time when Mr. SIDELL appeared, the troops of the U. States were occupying our territory, their squadrons were threatening our ports, and preparations were made to occupy the peninsula of the Californias, to which the Oregon question with England is only is a only a preliminary; and I did not receive Mr. SIDELL because the dignity of the nation repelled this new insult.
In the meantime, the army of the United States fixed its encampment at Corpus Christi, and occupied the island of Padre Vaym; it then marched to Point Isabel, and the flag of stars floated on the right bank of the Rio Bravo del Norte, in front of the city of Matamoras, the American vessels of war having previously seized upon the navigation of the river. The town of Laredo was surprised by , and one of our pickets there stationed was disarmed. Hostilities therefore, have been begun by the United States under taking new conquests in the territories included in the departments of Tamapulipas and New Leon, whilst the troops of the same States threaten Monterey on Upper California. There can be no doubt to which of the two belongs the responsibility of a war, which might have been prevented by a feeling of equity and justice, and of that respect which civilization has been introduced, for the rights and property of all nations. If Mexico should indolently suffer these reiterated advances of a power, which already considers itself mistress of the American continent, not only would she lose the importance which her population, resources, and peculiar position have given her ever since she raised herself to be an independent nation, but she would fall into shame and contempt should she, when challenged to fight for them, allow herself to be stripped of the integrant parts of her territory one by one. Outrages so many and so heavy, can no longer be borne and I have sent orders to the general-in-chief of the division of our northern frontier, to act in hostility against the against the army which is in hostility against us to oppose was to the enemy, which wars upon us; invoking the God of battles to preserve, by the valor of our troops, the unquestionable right to our territory, and the honor of our arms, which are no longer to be deployed only in the defence of justice. Our general, acting according to established usages, and the decided instructions given by my government, summoned the general-in-chief of the American forces to retire beyond the river Nueces, the ancient boundary of Texas, and the summons has been disregarded.
The nations interested in preventing the disturbance of the peace which has lasted so many years, and whose commercial relations with the Mexican republic, may suffer injury, see the hard alternative to which we are reduced by the invasion policy of the United States, and that we must succumb unless we defend with energy our national existence thus threatened. I solemnly announce that I do not declare war against the government of the United States of America, because it belongs to the august Congress of the nation, and not the Executive, to resolve definitely what reparations should be exacted for such offences. But the defence of the Mexican territory, which the forces of the United States have invaded, is an urgent necessity, and my responsibility to the nation would be immense should I fail to order the troops, which thus act as enemies, to be repelled; and I have therefore given that order. From this day begins the defensive war; and every point of our territory invaded or attacked, shall be valiently defended.
The time has therefore come which the government of the Mexican nation have endeavored fruitlessly to put off, by debating the clearest and most just titles; and these , having been contemned we enter into a necessary contest, which will secure us the sympathies of all nations and governments, which condemn the usurpations of the powerful. We shall ourselves become strong from the holiness of our cause; and when everything is endangered, our strength will correspond with the exigencies of our condition. Meanwhile the Mexican nation will resolve to hazard all in order to save all; and it will give a sublime example of sacred determination to exhibit that glorious devotion which has so often been displayed at all times by nations and their liberties.
I rejoice with pride that Providence should have destined me to be the organ for the announcing the energetic will of the Mexican republic. Let us prove in battle that the sons of the heroes and martyrs of independence are animated by the recollections of their pure glory; that valor has not degenerated in their breasts, and that they are disposed to sacrifice themselves on the altars of their country.
Mexicans! I raise on this memorable day the standard of independence, on which you see inscribed the illustrious names of Hidalgo and Iturbide. Rally under this sacred ensign, leaving all internal questions and differences for a period of less peril. I have assured you that the glory which I seek as the reward of my painful career, is not that of the ambitious man who regards power as the spoils of rapine, I have sworn to maintain the republic, in all its just rights during the short period of my government; and now, while I urge you to the struggle, and warn you that you must make great sacrifices, I also promise you that I shall not spare my own blood when it shall be necessary
Mexicans! Your valiant soldiers are about to fight, and they will fight, with the valor of heroes; keep your blessings for them, and prepare yourselves to crown their noble foreheads, or their tombs, if they should fall, when destiny calls you to take their places in the ranks. Mexico will conquer or no longer exist!
National Palace of Mexico, April 23, 1846.
MARIANA PAREDES Y ARRILLAGA
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Thursday, May 28, 1846, Page 2, Column 1, Volume 47, Number 12 Words: 685
GENERAL SCOTT
It is understood that this distinguished officer will take command of the forces to be raised under the late act of Congress for the Mexican war; it is further understood that an invasion of Mexico is contemplated. We gather these two facts from the intimations of the official paper.
The Life of Gen. SCOTT, recently published, brings freshly to mind the high qualities of bravery and generalship displayed by that official during the last war. The brilliant action at Chippewa, in which the British regulars were charged and broken at the point of a bayonet, in the open field, stands on record as a token of gallantry and spirit not likely soon to be forgotten. The prestige of the British bayonet, in the hands of their well drilled regulars, was as commanding as that which gave the charm of invincibility to her battle ships at sea. Until both were destroyed by American valour.
It was not alone by courage in the field that General SCOTT achieved his triumphs in his various conflicts with the enemy duiring the war of 1812. After the close of the campaign of 1813, which ended in disaster and disgrace, the efforts of SCOTT were directed to preparations for the next springs business. As General of Brigade he formed a camp of instruction at buffalo, and there laboured unceasingly to give has troops that indispensable element of efficiency—discipline. The success of these efforts was signalized nobly on the subsequent achievements of his troops, it is important, at this particular juncture, to dwell upon the item of experience in the last war. If the hostilities now begun are to continue for any length of time, the lessons of the past might teach us to beware of short enlistments--might teach us the importance of organizing an army for the war, be it long or short, so that discipline might begin at once and be perfected before the hardest struggle of strife would come. With such materials for soldiers as we possess in our bold daring and intrpied people, nothing but discipline is wanting to make our armies a sufficient match to the best that ever trod the field.
The biographer of Gen. SCOTT gives a very graphic account of the battle of Chippewa, which was fought in an open plain with out advantage on either side. The following portion of the narrativeis spirited.
“The action soon became general. Major JESSUP now in the wood and out of view, engaged and held in check the enemy’s right wing. The plain widened on that flank, and the enemy’s main line contiued to advance. JESSUP having the held incheck one battalion in the wood, the engagement then gave the enemy a new right flank upon the plains. Gen. SCOTT who had continued alternatively to advance halt and fire was now not more than eighty paces from the enemy. The enemy, having a new flank, SCOTT took advantage of the enlarged interval between LEAVENWORTH and McNEIL to throw the left flank of McNEIL’s battalion forward of its right, so that it stood obliquely to the enemy’s charge and flanking hima little on his right. At this moment SCOTT called allowed to McNEIL’s battalion, which had not a recruit in it, ‘The enemy say that we good at long shot, but cannot stand the cold iron. I call upon the Eleventh instantly to give the lie to that slander! Charge!” This movement was executed with decisive effect. A corresponding charge was also made by LEAVENWORTH, who held an oblique position on our right. These charges were sustained by the flank fire of Towsan’s artillery on t he right, and quickly put the enemy to route. The British army broke and fled in confusion.”
With the spirit of youth inspired in him, Gen. SCOTT now returns to the active duties of the field with the benefits of more than thirty years experience. The young soldier, the untaught volunteer, may look to him with confidence as to a wise and provident teacher, an accomplished man, mingling the courtesies of chivalry with the rough duties of war.--Balt. Amer.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 2224
THE MEXICAN WAR—GEN. SCOTT—PRESIDENT MAKING
We devote a considerable portion of our columns this week, to interesting details and accounts of the two splendid battles of the 8th and 9th of May, on the Rio Grande, between our gallant little Army and the forces of Mexico. Some of these accounts thrill through every vein and fibre of the heart; and while every one rejoices over the glorious victory which has crowned our arms—yet they cannot but be awed into silence and amazement when they look upon the scene of battle and follow the gallant TAYLOR and his devoted band to the charge. One blunder—one mistake –a single minute of procrastination and all would have been lost—our men, many of them must have been killed—our wounded and prisoners have fallen into the hands of the enemy; and the past history of Mexican warfare, tells us what there fate would have been; no act of barbarity that could have been practiced upon them would have been left untried by the merciless foe. But the God of Battles decided the day in our favor; and while in the discharge of our duty, our own troops cut down the their enemies with terrible loss—they did not forget, even in the heat and hour of battle, they were a christian people: and gave the dying water to drink—generously treated all prisoners, and buried the dead.
All who know us, know that we were violently opposed to the annexation of Texas to this union, and most especially to the manner in which it was accomplished—by a most palpable and bare—faced violation of the Constitution of the United States. But it was done by the constituted authorities of our country, acquiesced and sanctioned by all the forms necessary to making her a member of this Union—and when this was done, the question was shut with us—she became a part and parcel of our common country, and from the moment of her annexation, entitled to all the protection, care and consideration of our Government and the People that Virginia or Maryland or New York or any other member of this Confederacy is entitled to. If the annexation of Texas to this Union were a question now before us, we should extend to the measure the same opposition as we did in 1844—but that question, as we have before said is done with, and it is not now with the foreign Republic of Texas that we are to deal, but the State of Texas, one of the members of the U. States. When we annexed her to this Union, we did not believe, nor do we believe now, that there was an honest man in the country that did not believe that we were taking her, and her debt, and her war with her. Yes we contracted with her for Texas—that Republic which she called and declared by her act of Independence—her subsequent act of Congress, and, we may add, by the prowess of her arms, to be Texas; and those acts, if we can judge at all from “the lights before us,” carried her to the Rio Grande—the battle fields where now sleep many of our gallant dead,--and whose plains are drenched with the blood of an invading enemy. In this light we look upon the question before us; and we consider every gun fired on the banks of the Rio Grande fired in defence of the rights of our country. The conduct of our troops must stand approved in the eyes of the enlightened world; and if Mexico has been rash enough to encounter us, she must now put up with the bitter fruits of her folly, and prepare herself to render justice—full and ample justice, to our country for the many wrongs committed against us; or to sue at last for peace in the very gates of her Capitol, with a large addition to the loss of her Army and population. The war has now commenced, and the voice of our country demands that it be prosecuted with vigor and energy, with a view, and we trust and believe with a view alone, to the establishment and creation of a lasting peace between the two Republics. We believe this to be the desire and wish of our own government, and the anxious desire of the people of Mexico, who are goaded and forced into this war by the Military aspirants and tyrants who literally throng and infest that unhappy republic. We trust there is not a man—certainly not a high souled and chivalrous man—who does not mourn over the necessity which compels us to war against our feeble, distracted, and impoverished neighbors. We feel, deeply feel, for the people of Mexico, and only wish we could visit merited punishment upon the tyrants and demagogues, instead of the “rank and File.”
We know, now, that the blow is struck, the urgent and important necessity of following it up until a permanent peace can be established—a peace which will bring with it a settlement of all disputes, and an atonement—as far as such atonement can be made—for the precious blood of RINGGOLD, BROWN, and their brave compatriots who now sleep in their cold grave far from their “kindred and home.”
We feel proud of the tone of our country—almost all rejoice in the victory of our arms, while perhaps they may differ as to the causes or necessity of the war. But one feeling should now prevade the breasts of the feeling of this country. Is it so? No!—the shout of joy over Palo Alto is yet rising over the country—the hearts of the people are yet glad—but the walls of the Palace at Washington are icy and cold. The day of generous and exalted triumph are gone—the jack-daws dressed in the feathers of the eagle are now engaged in the honorable work (!!) of picking out the character and reputation of onr of our most gallant Generals because he is a Whig and stands in the way of some of the “sunshine patriots” for the next Presidency/ But, thank God, the imperishable pages of history cannot be destroyed—the glory of Chippewa, the splendor of Lundy’s Lane can never be blotted out or dimmed by the schemes of politicians. We deprecrate the introduction of party politics into such issues as now present themselves to the country. If we know ourselves, we will never refuse to speak our honest sentiments of men and measures. If we see anything deserving of praise in our political opponents, we shall not hesitate to give it utterance, we care not who our course offends; if they merit censure, in our judgement, we shall express it regardless of consequences. We can not imagine a more narrow and contracted soul than that which cannot look an inch beyond its party boundaries, and is forced to sing at the rising and setting of the sun.—God save KING PARTY. Yet such is the song of the faithful now at Washington. Let the annexed statement of facts, (for such we believe them to be) which we take from the pen of an able writer, speak for itself. Aye, let the course of SCOTT and the Brevet Major Generalship of POLK, meet “Old Rough and Ready,” (as Gen. TAYLOR is now familiarly called) at the same time, on the banks of the Rio Grande, and which, generous reader, do you think will most thrill the hearts of the Old Soldier and his gallant men? What think the people of this country, of the attempt of politicians to treat in this shabby manner, one of the most gallant officers that ever led our armies to battle and to victory? We repeat again, that we do not wish to see party politics mingle with the emergencies now existing in our country; and we make these remarks because we believe that unworthy trickery is being practiced toward one of our most gallant Generals, for no other cause than because he is a Whig—this cannot be helped—the victory is too fresh; but it may be convenient hereafter to treat him in the same way. But the hero of Niagara cannot be shuffled off—his name and his deeds are engraven upon the hearts of his country—the lapse of thirty years has not withered his laurels—a new one encircles his brow at this moment, in his refusal and protest of robbing the gallant TAYLOR of the glory of his. But here are the facts to which we refer:--
Since the Press of both parties have spoken out, in terms of general approbation of the selection of Gen. SCOTT to lead the army into Mexico, a considerable action has taken place, in the mind of the President and his constitutional advisers, who are nothing more or less than the slavish automata of his wishes, as to the policy of his selection. When the first embarrassments occurred on the frontier, Mr. POLK manifested the utmost eagerness to have Gen. SCOTT assume the command held by Gen. TAYLOR. The Hero of Niagara, like a true soldier, remonstrated against this disparagement of a gallant and faithful officer; and stated to the President that he was fully competent to discharge every duty that had been assigned to him. Some days afterwards, the President signified his purpose to appoint him to the general command of the Army, to be recruited by an act of Congress. Gen SCOTT consented at once; observing that it was due to his rank, and would not be regarded as any reflection upon Gen. TAYLOR. Accordingly, he was taken into the Presidents council; and they together, laid out the distributions of the requisitions upon the States, and other details. Meantime the intelligence that SCOTT was to head the troops had gone abroad, and returned to the capitol, as I have stated. It was anything but the unction which Mr. POLK desired. He, at once argued that the result of a victory might place him in the Presidential chair; and he as soon concluded, with the natural selfishness of his heart, to revoke his action, or to place it in a position to be most unacceptable to SCOTT. He again urged upon him the propriety of superseding TAYLOR. This was followed up by similar suggestions from the Secretary of War, and other members of the Cabinet, doubtless at the instigation of the Executive. To one and all he replied in the same strain. No man could do more than TAYLOR had accomplished; and no one so well deserved to conclude a campaign which he had so valiantly opened. Gen. SCOTT expressed the most unlimited confidence that he would route the enemy in any regular engagement, even with double forces opposed. How well founded was this prediction, we have now seen.
About this period, only eight days ago, it was necessary to prepare a Bill, organizing the details of the army, which Congress had ordered to be raised. Gen. SCOTT drew it with his own hand—and it was fully approved by the War Department, From which it was transmitted to the Military Committee. On Monday of Tuesday last, that Committee met, and Mr. MARCY appeared before them bearing a new section to be added to the proposed Bill, which was reported to the Senate of Tuesday. It provides for adding two Major Generals and four Brigadier Generals to the military establishment. It is well known that there is no manner of necessity for these officers. The States are allowed top choose there own, and there will be three Brigadier Generals of the United States in the field, exclusive of the Commanding General. What, then, was the purpose of this extraordinary movement? It was to confer upon Mr. POLK the power to appoint two Major Generals, and then to choose one of them to place over the head of Gen. SCOTT and GAINES altogether, for when this war is over, the army must be reduced, and but two major Generals returned to the service. Can any one doubt, who knows Mr. JAMES K. POLK that the successful leader of the Mexican War, as must be any General who undertakes it prove to be, will be preferred to as the hero of Chippewa and Niagara! This whole scheme, I repeat, is designed to oust Gen. SCOTT from the army, and to prevent him from reaping any of the honors, such as they may be, of this war upon unfortunate Mexico.
Seeing the game that was playing—that no orders were issued to him, and that an evident coolness had suddenly grown up in his intercourse with the Executive—Gen. SCOTT addressed a letter to the Secretary of War, a few days ago, setting forth his objections to superseding Gen. TAYLOR, and expressing some doubts as to the propriety of taking the general command, in asmuch as it appeared that he had lost the confidence of the President. He concluded, however, by saying that the first duty of a soldier was “to obey orders” and he was ready to receive any the department might make. Since then no reply has been received; and it is much to be doubted if he will be sent to the South.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2, Column 3. Words: 597
LATEST FROM THE ARMY
CROSSING THE RIO GRANDE BY THE AMERICAN ARMY AND PROBABLE SURRENDER OF MATAMORAS
The steamer Alabama arrived at New Orleans on the 21st ult., bringing intellgence from Point Isabel to the 19th ult.
A courier had arrived from Barita a few hours previous to the departure of the Alabama, with intelligence that that place had been taken possession of on the 18th by the volunteers and regulars under Col. WILSON, without opposition, or without any Mexicans having made their appearance.
Gen. TAYLOR had arrived safe at the camp with the 250 wagon loads of supplies, with which he left Point Isabel of the 14th. He was to have crossed the Rio Grande on the 17th ult., at 1 o’clock at some point within three or four miles of the camp, and take possession of Matamoras, in doing which it was supposed the enemy did not oppose him, as no firing had been heard up to the time the Alabama left, and two thousand Mexicans had been seen to move out of the town and take up their march for the interior—literally, as other accounts say, in a state of starvation.
It has been ascertained, with certainty, that the number of killed and wounded of the enemy during the battles of the 8th and 9th, exceeded a thousand—while the killed and wounded of our army numbered but 156. The wounded officers were doing well. Two privates died of their wounds since the James L. Day left.
The steamer Sea having arrived on the morning of the 19th from New Orleans, two complete regiments of Louisiana Volunteers, those of Cols. MARKS and WALTON, were ashore. They were encamped on the Brazos Island, and were to march with Gen. SMITH at their head, on the evening of the day the Alabama left, or on the next morning, to join Col. WILSON’s detachment at Barita. They were in good health and spirits.
Capt. AULICK commands the 500 marines and sailors landing from the U.S. squadron, which had proceeded up the Rio Grande, and acted in conjunction with the army in the capture of Barita.
The frigate Raritan, and the steam frigate Mississippi had left the mouth of the Rio Grande, the former, it was supposed, for Vera Cruz.
A small vessel had arrived from Galveston with 60 Texan volunteers.
Passengers in the Alabama:--Capt. TAYLOR, U.S.A., Wm. II. DUNBAR, L.C. HORNSBY, MR. BARRY, F. FISCHER.
Governor HENDERSON will take the command of the forces raised in Texas, to reinforce the Army of Occupation, by a resolution of the Legislature of that State.
Correspondence of the N. O. Delta
Point Isabel, 19th May, 1846.
We have quite a hospital of wounded men, comprising 43 privates, three Mexican prisoners—one of whom has lost both legs—and the following officers of the U.S. army:
Col. McINTOSH, 5th Infantry; was peirced through the mouth with a bayonet, and shot in three places.
Col. PAYNE, Insp’r Gen.; shot in the hip.
Capt. PAGE, 4th infantry; lower jaw, part of the tongue and upper teeth entirely shot away. He is suffering dreadfully.
Capt. HOE, 8th infantry; right arm broken, and shot in left hand.
Lieut. JORDAN, 8th infantry; shot and bayoneted in several places.
Lieut LUTHER, 2d Artillery; lower hip shot off.
It is expected that all the above will recover, but most of them will require great care.
News has just arrived that a body of marines from the fleet anticipated the arrival of Col. WILSON at Barita, by marching upon the Mexicans, who immediately vacated the post. The inhabitants of the town then hailed the marines, and forthwith sent them fresh beef and other provisions.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2, Column 4. Words: 215
MEXICAN STATEMENT OF THEIR OWN LOSS—PLAN OF CAMPAIGN.—Among the papers found in the captured effects of ARISTA, was the morning return of the Mexican force on the day of the battle, which shows the strength of the enemy to have exceeded 8,000; though it is not absolutely certain that the whole of that force was on the United States bank of the Rio Grande.
Gen. ARISTA’s Aid, while making arrangements with a distinguished officer of our army for the exchange of prisoners and the care of the wounded, stated that the Mexican’s loss, in killed on the field of battle and drowned, was 800. Among the latter was one of the priests in the train of the Mexican army who perished in his flight in the waters of the Rio Grande. In this number, the wounded and the prisoners are not included. Fifteen hundred muskets (all King’s arms) had been collected by our troops.
The plan of the campaign as developed by ARISTA’s papers was for that General, after demolishing the small force under the command of Gen. TAYLOR, to overrun Texas; and, having effected “the conquest of that revolted province,” if it should be necessary to secure the fruits of victory, it was arranged that Gen. PAREDES himself should march an army of occupation into the conquered country. N.Y. Journal of Commerce.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2, Column 5 Words: 399
BY THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA
A PROCLAMATION
The Congress of the U. States having, by an act approved on the 13th of May 1846, declared that a state of war exists between the Republic of Mexico and that of the United States; and the President of the United States being by said act authorized “to call for and accept the services of any number of volunteers, not exceeding 50,000, for the purpose of enabling the Government of the United States to prosecute said war to a speedy and successful termination,” and having called upon the Executive of the State, under the date of the 19th instant, “to cause to be enrolled and held in readiness for muster into the service of the United States three Regiments of Infantry,” to be composed of volunteer corps—Now, therefore, I, WILLIAM SMITH Governor of Virginia, by virtue of the authority with which I am invested, do announce to my fellow citizens my readiness to receive, for the purpose aforesaid, a tender of the services of thirty companies of volunteers, to be formed into regiments when mustered into the service of the U. States. These companies must have the organization of the Army of the United States, and in their rank and file consist of 64 men, not over 45, nor under 18 years of age, and full of “physical strength and vigor.” Existing volunteer companies tendering their services, will be permitted to retain their existing uniform; but all new companies must strictly conform, in their uniform, to that prescribed by the general order of March, 1834.
No other officer of militia, no matter what his grade, will forfeit his commission by entering into the proposed volunteer service.
For the information of the public, the uniform before referred to, as well as the company organization of the Army of the United States, will be found in the subjoined general order.
The call to arms has, upon the generous and brave, a magical effect. To the Virginian it has never been made in vain. Other Sates are rushing to fields of danger and glory; and the sons of the Cavaliers will not be outstripped in this noble race of patriotism and duty.
Given under my hand, as Governor, and under the lesser seal of the Commonwealth, at Richmond, this 23d day of May, in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and forty-six, and of the Commonwealth the seventieth.
W.M. SMITH.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2, Column 5, Words: 248
GENERAL ORDERS
ADJUTANT—GENERAL’s OFFICE.
The following organization of Volunteer Corps for the service under the requisition of the President of the United States will be observed:
A company of Infantry will consist of
1 Captain,
1 First Lieutenant,
1 Second Lieutenant,
4 Sergeants,
4 Corporals,
64 Privates,
Thirty companies are required to constitute when called into sevice, three Regiments of Infantry—Each regiment to consist of
1 Captain,
1 Lieutenant Colonel,
1 Major,
1 Adjutant, (a Lieutenant of one of the Companies, but not in addition.)
1 Sergeant Major,
1 Quarter—Master Serjeant
2 Principal Musicians, and
10 Companies, according to the organization above.
Volunteer Corps now in commission tendering their services, and all new corps which may be raised for this service, will send to this department, with tender of service, a written engagement, signed by all the members to serve twelve months after they shall have arrived at the place of rendezvous, or to the end of the war, unless sooner discharged—according to their discretion.
Old corps will retain the uniform now worn by them: new corps will uniform according to the pattern described.
Commandants of regiments within which volunteers corps for this service shall be raised, will superintend the enrollment, the election of officers, inspect the company, and certify the whole to this department. Commissions for this for this special service will then be issued to the officers of all corps. Existing corps will be inspected in like manner and sign the enrolment.
WM. II. RICHARDSON, Adj’t Gen.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2 Column 5, Words: 838
FORM OF ENROLLMENT.
We, the undersigned, do hereby engage to serve in a volunteer company of infantry to constitute a portion of the three regiments required for the service of the United States, according to the terms of an act of Congress “providing for the prosecution of the existing war between the United States and the Republic of Mexico,” approved the 13th May, 1846—and to hold ourselves in readiness for muster into the service of the United States, when called upon by the Governor of Virginia.
UNIFORM OF THE INFANTRY
Coat—Dark blue cloth, single breasted, three rows of buttons on the breast, ten in each row, at equal distances; the distance between the outer rows and the centre row to be four inches at top, and two at bottom, measuring from the centre or eyes of the button; blind button holes of black twist or narrow black braid, from the centre buttons to the corresponding buttons in the outer row; stand-up collar, to meet in the front with hooks and eyes, and rise no higher than to permit the free turning of the chin over it; to be edged all around with gold lace, three quarters of an inch in width, with two straps of the same lace, four and a half inches in length on each side, running back from the front, terminated by a button on each. Cuff, three inches deep, with four blind button holes, of black twist or narrow braid, extending from four buttons, placed across to each, and two small buttons at the fastening. Skirts to reach to the bend of the knee, with blue turn backs, or turn-backs marked with a cord; the bottom of the skirts not less than three and a half, or more than five inches broad, with a star of silver at the connecting point of the turn-backs on each skirt; two hip buttons range with the lower buttons on the breast, two buttons at the opening of the pocket of each skirt; collar and cuffs of blue cloth, plain or embroidered at pleasure.
Buttons—Silver or plated—convex—with the arms of Virginia on them.
Sword and Scabbard—Straight Sword, silver hilt and white gripe; scabbard, steel or plated; sword knot, silver cord and tassel; sword belt, black leather, to be worn over coat.
Sash—Scarlet silk net, with bullion fringe ends; sash to go twice around the waist, and to tie on the left hip; to be worn under the belt.
Epaulets—Silver.
Hat—Cocked, without binding; fan of back part eleven inches; the front or cock nine inches; black ribbons on the two sides. Loop and cockade—Navy blue silk cockade, six inches in diameter; loop, silver, eleven inches long, ornamented, with the arms of Virginia in silver.
Plume—white cock feathers, falling from an upright stem, eight inches long, in a silver socket.
Tassels—Silver with worked hangars. Cravat or Stock Black.
Trowsers—From the 1st October to 30th April, dark blue cloth or cassimere; from 1st May to 30th September, white linen or cotton.
Boots worn under trowsers.
Spurs—Sliver or plated.
Gloves—White.
FOR COMPANY OFFICERS AND PRIVATES.
Coat—Dark blue cloth, single breasted, , three rows of buttons on the breast, ten in each row, at equal distances; the distance between the outer rows and the centre to be four inches at top and two at bottom, measuring from the centre or eyes of the buttons; blind button holes of black twist or narrow black braid, to the centre to the corresponding buttons in the outer rows; stand up collar, to meet in front with hooks and eyes, and to rise no higher than to permit the free use of the turning of the chin over it. For officers, this to be edged all around with silver lace, three quarters of an inch wide, , with two straps of the same lace, four and a half inches in length on each side, running back from the front, terminated by a button. Non commissioned officers and privates to wear to wear white worsted lace instead of silver. Cuff three inches deep with four blind button holes of black twist, or narrow thread extending from four buttons, placed across each, with two small buttons at the fastening. Skirts to reach no lower then the middle of the thigh, with four blind button holes of black twist, or narrow braid, on the pocket flaps, to correspond with the buttons.
Trowsers—From the 1st of October to the 30th April, dark blue cloth or cassimere; from the 1st May to 30th September, white linen or cotton.
Cap—Black leather, round, with bell crown, plated or sliver scales and eagle.
Pompons—White, in sliver or plated socket.
Buttons—silver or plated, convex, seven-eighths of an inch in diameter, the arms of Virginia.
Wings—Silver scales and bullion for officers. For non commissioned officers the same as for officers, except the bullion. For privates, white metal scales. Non commissioned offices to wear white worsted lace instead of silver.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 2 Column 5, Words: 2980
BATTLES ON THE RIO GRANDE
The following minute and graphic account of the two battles of the 8th and 9th of May, in which our gallant army won for themselves imperishable renown, will be read with deep and thrilling interest. It is from the pen of a noble officer who heroically bore his full share of the duties and dangers of the trying occasion:
CAMP OPPOSITE MATAMORAS, May 13th 1846.
On the 1st of May the Army under General TAYLOR took up its line of march at 3 o’clock P.M. for Point Isabel, thirty miles distant, in order to force up from that point provisions which were necessary to the maintenance of our Fort here. To defend it in our absence Gen. TAYLOR left the 7th Regiment of Infantry. BRAGG’s artillery of four six-pounders, Capt. LOWD’s battery of four eighteen pounders and some convalescents as a garrison—the whole under the command of Maj. BROWN under the Army. We had heard of six or seven thousand of the enemy to oppose our march to our depot, and expected to fight them on the way down—but did not meet with them. On the 2nd instant, in the afternoon, we reached Point Isabel, and on the 3rd heard the bombardment of our Fort at this place. This bombardment continued at intervals for several days. In the meantime, Gen. TAYLOR, having learned from express from Maj. BROWN that he could hold the fort, put his whole command at work in the entrenchments at Point Isabel, the basis of our operations, and having made it sufficiently strong and loaded about three hundred wagons with provisions and ammunition, he determined to proceed at once to the relief of our gallant little band in this Fort, and give battle to the enemy if necessary. He commenced his march at 2 o’clock P.M. on the 7th instant in the following order:--A squadron of Dragoons, commanded by Capt. MAY, in front; the third Brigade, composed of the 3rd and 4th Regiments of Infantry and RINGOLD’s light artillery; the 5th infantry not Brigaded, and the 1st Brigade, composed of the Artillery Battalion serving as Infantry; DUNCAN’s light Artillery and the 8th Infantry—to which must be added two eighteen pounders drawn by oxen and Capt. KERR’s squadron of Dragoons protecting the rear—the wagons on the march being a great degree interspersed between the two Brigades for greater security.
On the night of the 7th we encamped about 12 miles from Point Isabel, without seeing the enemy. On the 12th we had advanced about 5 miles, when we descried the enemy about two miles distant, drawn up in great force in the open prairie, and occupying the gentle slope with their back to the thick bushes, called in this country “chapparal.”
We immediately formed line to the front, and advanced calmly and quietly to the attack. Our brave and considerate old General, finding that the enemy waited to receive us, and that we were passing near a lake of water, the day being hot and the men thirsty, halted in full view of the adversary and directed the men to fill their canteens with water. We had now little leisure to examine the force of the enemy and its composition. The horizon in our front and to the right appeared lined with cavalry (Lancers and Dragoons). The woods in their rear were giving up column after column of Infantry, which were maneuvered with great regularity, and batteries of Artillery were observed taking their designated places in our front and on our flanks. The lowest estimate at the time of the enemy’s force was 5,000 of all arms—our own being under 2,000 fighting men. We have since learned that on this occasion, the enemy had over 6,000 fighting men. But the greatest difficulty under which we labored was the absolute necessity of protecting in an open prairie, from the enemy’s numerous cavalry, our enormous train of provisions and ammunition, without which, even if we gained a victory we could not relieve our garrison opposite Matamoras, or maintain our position there. Besides we were miserably deficient as to the number of our cavalry, having only 200 Dragoons while the enemy could not have had less than 1,000 or 2,000. The men being refreshed our General rode to each Brigade, and told the men to keep cool, when the enemy charged not to fire a shot until they were repulsed with the bayonet, and had turned their backs in flight.
Our advance then re-commenced, slowly, but firmly, wagons and all; and when we arrived in artillery range, their batteries opened upon us; some of their balls bouncing along the open plain and passing us in “ricochet” other flying over our heads, and falling in the rear, showing us in a few moments that their pieces were served with skill and precision. A movement was now observed among the enemy cavalry as if about to charge, and the Regiments nearest them were thrown into the square, or formation preparatory to the square and so disposed to protect our own artillery whenever it was ordered to fire. During this time, some fifteen minutes, the enemy’s fire was received in perfect silence by us, and at length, Capt. DUNCAN having been ordered to open upon them, advanced in the most gallant manner, and placing himself in a position to be protected by the infantry, assault the enemy’s cavalry, and one that would enable him at the same time to gall their cavalry and masses of infantry, sent a withering fire among them, which created some confusion, and which was answered by one of our squares of infantry by one long simultaneous shout, which showed how anxious they were to be led to the charge at once—but this could not be. They were destined to give the strongest evidence of courage that a soldier can exhibit—to stand in squares for hours under the fire of the enemy’s artillery, so as to protect from the enemy’s cavalry our own artillery, whilst the latter was mowing down the enemy’s ranks. As soon as DUNCAN opened, Maj. RINGGOLD’s thunder was heard on the right, Lieut. CHURCHILL’s from the eighteen pounders in the centre, and all the enemy batteries opening at the same time, a tremendous cannonading ensued, which on this plain of boundless extent, presented a spectacle of great magnificence. The battle commenced at ten minutes past 2 P.M. It had lasted about an hour, when a large body of the enemy’s Red Lancers charged the 5th Infantry, with a view of cutting of our wagon train. They were met with the most perfect tranquility, and a discharge of musquetry from the 5th (General BROOK’s) Regiment told us their fate. They fled precipitately, leaving men, horses, and guidons on the field. In the meantime the whole order of battle had been changed to conform to the maneuvers of the enemy, and our Brigade, the 1st, which was on the left, now found itself in advance on the right—the Artillery Battalion being on the extreme right and, most in advance. It must be observed also that these different changes in our General was always slowly but steadily gaining ground to the front, and the enemy gradually falling back. The enemy’s fire having slackened and then ceased, Gen. TAYLOR, from his new position, ordered all his batteries to open, and in his turn attacked the enemy in such fury as to cause evident destruction in his ranks; but they still remained firm. By a charge on them they might have been routed entirely, but then we must have exposed our wagons to be captured by their cavalry, and that could not be thought of.
The battle had lasted from about 10 minutes past 2 P.M. until about 7 P.M. At this moment the enemy was discovered coming down with his left flank with great force with cavalry and infantry on the Artillery Battalion and the 18 pounders which that battalion supported. The 18 pounders were served by thirty men, and the artillery battalion was about 360 strong. Both the Battery and the Battalion were in such a position that they could not be supported by the other portion of the army, and at the same time the charge commenced the Battalion had deployed into line. However, it was thrown into square by a prompt maneuvre, and waited steadily the Mexican charge. On they came “horse, foot and Dragoons,” shouting and yelling, when a single horseman rode into the square and said, “Men, I place myself in your square.” The General was immediately recognized by his men, who gave him three cheers as evidence of his confidence. At this moment Lieut. CHURCHILL discharged one of his 13 pounders, loaded with grape into the advancing ranks, creating great havoc, but not checking entirely their onward movement. They marched forward to within good musket range, some 150 yards of us, halted and delivered their fire, which our men received quietly and at a shoulder. Finding that they would come no nearer, Col. CHILDS, commanding this Battalion, ordered the volley, which was given as if in parade, when the enemy immediately retired, and the action ended for the night. Our army slept on their arms precisely as night found them, and occupied the position in which the enemy commenced the battle. The two armies slept quietly almost in presence of each other. The night was serene and beautiful, the moon casting the softest light on everything around us, but for the groans of the wounded and the screams of those who were suffering under the knife of the surgeons, no one could have imagined the scenes which had occurred but a few hours previously.
On our side we had fifty-five killed and wounded. The gallant Major RINGGOLD was mortally wounded, and his noble steed killed by the same shot, as he was giving his last fire for the night, and after having distinguished himself by the coolness, precision, and effect with which he managed his battery. Capt. JOHN PAGE of the 4th Infantry was horribly wounded supposed to be mortally. Many officers had horses shot under them—Captain BLISS, Lieut. DANIELLS, Capt. MONTUOMERT, and several others.
Many Dragoons horses were killed and the escapes were almost incredible. MAGRUDER’s company two men, whilst at an order, had the bayonets of their muskets cut off by cannon balls, passing over their shoulders and between their heads. He had also a man killed of his immediate right and left. Some of the balls fell into the centres of the squares and recoched out again, without touching anyone. Others fell just on the outside and bounced over. To stand patiently and coolly, in square, under such fire, for five hours, without firing a shot, is the best evidence of discipline and invincable courage that troops can give. But more: the effect of this courage which none but regulars could have shown, must be considered. The next morning the enemy retreated, leaving the field strewed with their dead, and having lost, by their own confession, five hundred in killed and wounded; but we have found out since his loss is much greater. The enemy’s artillery was numerous and served with great rapidity and precision; while we had little cavalry and they had an immense proportion of that arm. Hence our shell and grape shot told briskly among them. In short, we gained on that day a great victory. When we consider the enemy’s numbers, his numerous and effective regular cavalry, his well-drilled infantry and artillery and above all that he had chosen his own ground, that upon which he is the most accustomed to fight—the plain—and compare all this with our inferiority in all arms, and that we were incumbered by a train we could not afford to lose we can only account for the result by the impression made on the enemy by our firm and unshaken advance; by the steadiness with which we repulsed their cavalry and by the unrivalled skill of our artillery officers and men—to which must be added a perfect knowledge on the part of both men and officers that if we lost the battle the Fort at Matamoras would fall, the Army, be destroyed, and our depot, Point Isabel, be taken to the eternal disgrace of the American Army and the ruin of the interest of our Government, for some time at least, in this part of the world. We could not afford to be driven back a single inch, and all were prepared for any thing but retreat.
On the morning of the 9th the Mexican enemy left the field at early dawn, and after arranging our train, we commenced the march toward our Fort at this place. At 2 o’clock P.M. we found the enemy drawn up in great force occupying a ravine which our road crossed, with thick “chapparel” or thorny bushes on either side, where it crossed the ravine, constituting a complete defile. They were 7,000 strong, we 54 weaker than the previous day. The General ordered an immediate attack, by all troops except the First Brigade which was kept in reserve, and soon the rattling fire of musketry, mingled with the heavy sound of artillery, announced the commencement of the action. The enemy had choen his position, which he had considered impregnable—was vastly superior to us in numbers, and had ten pieces of artillery planted in the road in front of us, which swpet the road with grape, and which it was absolutely necessary for us to take before he could be beaten. These pieces were flanked on either side by a Regiment of brave troops, from Tampico, and we were obliged to stand an awful shower of grape and bullet before a charge could reach them. The battle had lasted for some two hours with great fury on both sides, with many heroic deeds had been done, with no impression made, when Gen. TAYLOR sent for Capt. MAY of the 2d Dragoons and told him that he must take that battery with his Squadron of Dragoons, if he lost every man. MAY instantly placed himself at the head of his men, and setting off at full speed, with three cheers and shouts, dashed into the defile, where he was greeted with an overwhelming discharge of grape and bullets, which nearly anhilated his first and second platoons, but he was seen unhurt darting like lightning, through this murderous hail storm, and in a second he and his men drove away or cut to pieces the artillerists.
The speed of his horse was so great, however, that they passed through the battery, and were halted in its rear. There turning, he charged back, and was just in time to rescue a Mexican General officer who would not leave his guns, and who was parrying the strokes of one of his men. He handed his sword to MAY and announced himself as Gen. VEGA, and gave his parole. MAY turned him over to an officer, and galloping back to Gen. TAYLOR, reported that he had captured the enemy’s battery, and the valiant Gen. VEGA, bravely defending it, whose sword he had the honor to present to his commanding officer. The General was extremely gratified, and felt no doubt that a blow had been given, from which it would be difficult for the enemy to recover—and so it proved, for a portion of the 5th Infantry, finding that the enemy had reoccupied and commenced serving their pieces, gallantly charged and brought off several, when the 8th, which had just come up, marched to the attack by its gallant commander, Col. BELKNAP, seconded nobly by Capt. MONTGOMERY, and took off the remaining pieces. Col. BELKNAP, leading his Regiment into the thickest of the fight, seized a Mexican standard, and waving it over his head, dashed in front of his men, until his horse stumbled over his dead bodies and threw him. Being a heavy man, he was helped on his horse by a soldier who in the act received a shot through his lungs, and at the same moment a shot carried away the Mexican flag, leaving but the handle with the Colonel. He dashed ahead with that, however, and his regiment carried everything before it. At this moment the Mexicans gave way entirely, and throwing down their arms, fled in every direction, leaving all their stores, munitions of war, arms, standards, &C. The killed, wounded, and prisoners, including among those killed those drowned in the Rio Grande, do not fall short of 1500—so that the enemy’s loss in two days amounts to not less than 2,000 men, something more than the number we had in our army.
When Lieut. MAGRUDER introduced Gen. VEGA to Gen. TAYLOR the latter expressed his deep regret that such a misfortune should happen to an officer whose character he so highly esteemed, and returned to him his sword which he had won so bravely. It is said also the General gave the captive officer an order on his private banker for his use when he arrived in the United States.
Immediately after the victory, a regiment marched into this fort, and was received with cheers and open arms. All had done their duty—those who were left behind to defend our fort—those who had marched ahead to its relief. I had nearly forgot to mention that no officer in the battle of the 9th was more distinguished than Lieut. RANDOLPH RIDGELY. His conduct drew praise from the lips of every officer. But I shall never finish if I record every act of personal valor which occurred in this battle, where officers and men fought hand to hand for hours with the Mexicans. I shall therefore conclude with the hope that in a few days we shall be in Matamoras.
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Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 3, Column 1, Words: 2021
BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN
We have nowhere else (says the N.O. Picayune) so circumstantial and interested an account of the bombardment of the camp opposite Matamoras as is contained in the following letter. It is due to state that it was written exclusively for the gratification of “a select few” of his friends—not for the public eye. The reader will on this account excuse the air of levity with which serious matters are discussed. Under all this exuberance of fun and humor, we do not assure the reader that the writer bears a heart that beats with every generous and manly impulse, and he is fully cognizant of all the sober realities of the service of which he is engaged:
CAMP OPPOSITE MATAMORAS,
MAY 13, 1846.
Since the evening of the 9th noting has transpired here. You may know, ere this, that we gave the Mexicans “jesse” on the 8th and 9th. Gen. TAYLOR, after establishing his little sand fort here, opposite the town, left the 7th infantry and two Artillery companies in it, with instructions to defend it to the death, he then left with the remainder of his forces for Brazos Santiago for supplies, and in the hope that the two mortars (which he had ordered two months ago) had arrived from Washington, and also to bring up ammunition enough for our 18 pounders to batter down Matamoras. Gen. T. and command left on the 1st of this month. On the morning of the 3d, at daylight, the Mexicans opened their batteries on our fort, or rather our grand entrenchments; from that moment it was right hot work until 12 o’clock , when both parties had to cease so their guns would cool. Were you ever shot at in front with a 12 pounder, in the flank with a 6 pounder, and a shell directed to burst over your head? If not try it, just to properly enjoy a brandy toddy after the gun cooling begins. Well, after the refreshments the ball continued, varied only by “vindictive looseness” and wild colt, comet like flying of shells. It was only 25 minutes after we commenced our fire before one of our 18 pound shot struck one of their 12 pound cannon directly in the muzzle, and knocked it, head, back, and muzzle twenty feet into the air and it was accompanied by about twenty legs, heads, arms. Seven Mexican officers were wounded and eight privates, who were around their piece, were killed. We have not heard from their 12 pounders since, so hot was their fort in which it had been placed, that they were compelled to abandon it. When the first fire came I rushed into my tent and jerked up my rifle, and as I stepped out a 9 pound shot struck my tent at the head of my bed, ranged the whole length of my bed, cut out the back upright pole, passed out the back part through two other tents, then buried itself in the parapet. I’m glad I was not “caught napping.”
In the first hour a sergeant of Captain Lee’s company was killed; he was carried over to the hospital tent, (full of sick,) and directly after he was laid on a bed, a bomb shell was thrown through the top of the tent, hit near the bed, and blew the dead man’s head off without injuring any one else. On Wednesday, the 6th, May, and the 3rd day of bombardment, Major BROWN was struck in the leg by a bomb shell, and the leg had to be amputated—he died on the 9th. These are the only two we have lost during the whole bombardment, which commenced on Sunday the 3d, and lasted, with little intermission, day and night until the following Saturday at dark. During this time the enemy had thrown about 3500shots—solid and shells—amongst us. It is incredible that the damage is so slight. Finding we could not dismount their mortars—they being sunk in the ground, with thick embankments in front—and having only about 400 rounds of ammunition to our cannon, we went to work throwing up a temporary bomb-proof shelter, by taking our barrels of pork, laying sticks across them, and throwing six feet of earth upon that. These were built at points in the fort where they would be convenient for the men; and when we saw the smoke from their guns, we would fall into the parapet and “hole.” The Mexicans thought they had killed nearly of all us, as they were under the impression that all who fell were shot.
It was very disgusting to stand and be fired at all round and not be able to return it “in full force and virtue;” but, knowing our ammunition was scarce, we reserved it till the death struggle should come on. We were in hopes that, after a reasonable time of bombarding, the enemy would attempt to storm us. Two or three feints were made, but they could not be brought to scratch. Five mortars were playing on us at once, from every point of their works. Gen. TAYLOR’s orders to us were to maintain this post, and not pretend to make any sally or risk in the least his position here; but in case we were surrounded after he left, signal guns were to be fired at certain intervals, which would notify him of the fact. This notice was given to the General, as they heard all our guns at Point Isabel. On the 8th, the General commenced his march with the train of provisions, and when about twelve miles from here, he saw the enemy in position. He immediately “walked into their affections.” We heard the firing of cannons on both sides, and distinctly the volley of musketry. We knew well that it was the General poking it into there short ribs. We had stopped to “licker,” but at the first gun we sprung to our parapets, and for one hour we had the prettiest little cannon fight that ever a man behold. They gave us gun for gun, while we slung at them “the best the shop contained.”
But wait, I forgot one thing: On the first Wednesday, after the bombardment had lasted three days, the enemy “sounded a parley.” Maj. SEAWELL and Lieut. BRITTON were ordered to go out and see what they wanted. They did so, and the Mexicans demanded the surrender of the fort “for humanity’s sake.” They gave us one hour to surrender, or they would put us all to the sword. They brought us a letter from Gen. ARISTA to our commanding officer, Capt. HAWKINS (BROWN had been shot just before,) had a council of war called, and said he presumed we were unanimous on such points, but that he would put the matter to vote as to their feelings. The vote of youngest member was taken first, and so on throughout. This was the unanimous vote:--“Defend the place to the death.” Gen. ARISTA was in thirty minutes replied to as follows: That we had received his humane communication, but not understanding perfectly the Spanish language, we were doubtful if we understood his meaning; but, from all we could understand, he proposed that we give him possession of the place, or we would all be put to the sword in one hour; if this was the proper understanding, we would respectfully decline the proposition, and “took this opportunity to assure his Excellency of our distinguished consideration.” After the reception of this by his “Excellency,” it just rained balls. The different mortars kept two pair of “saddle-bags” in the air at all time, varied only by their 4 and 6 pounders. But in the midst of all the storm the Star Spangled Banner still floated on our breast works, at the point where they directed their strongest efforts; and we took out our two regimental colors and planted them on different parts of the wall. This fire was kept up all night, while their musketry played us [illegible] the rear, at the distance of five hundred yards. We ordered our men not to fire a shot til they came within eighty yards—but they did not approach. Their object was to exhaust in ammunition. They knew from deserters that it was scarce. They are fond of fighting at long distances, but they can’t stand the cold steel.
Now for where I left off the night of the 8th. Gen. TAYLOR and the Mexican army were 12 miles from here—between this and Brazos. The batteries at Matamoras and around us, and in our fort, kept up a constant firing and dark, when all ceased. We had no communications from the General, but that he had to lick’em, or die! The sound of arms had not retrograded, but advanced; besides, there was no ringing of the bells in the city, or signs of rejoicing, therefore we judged they had not the first cause for jolification. That night was the first sound napping that had been done in the fort for six nights. The next morning at daylight tbe enemy’s batteries opened on us as usual, we laying low, as our cannon ammunition was nearly exhausted, giving them a “crowder” now and then to let them know “the degenerate sons of Washington: were not all dead yet. At 1 o’clock we heard Gen. TAYLOR open again, and from that till4 o’clock the battle raged with fury, coming closer almost every shot. The General was them before him in the chapporal at the point of a bayonet. At half mile in our rear we saw their cavalry retreating for the ferry, to recross the river at Matamoras and they were in utter confusion; we turned one of our eighteen pounders on to bear on the mass, and gave them a “blizzard” to help them along.
Then you should have heard the loud huzzas that went up from this little spot. I sprang upon the wall near our regimental flag and requested silence. Every thing was still as death. Says I, “three cheers for the star spangled banner.” It was given in full blast; Matamoras heard the shout; and then, and not till then, every gun from the enemy ceased its fire.
The enemy say they had 6,000 in the fight, but from the returns of the regiments which we have found on the field there must have been 7,153 of them. We had 1,500 engaged in the battle, about 500 forming the reserve. All Gen. ARISTA’s paper’s and baggage had been taken, silver in abundance. The loss [taken, wounded, missing] of the enemy amounts to about 2,000; among the prisoners were Gen. LA VEGA and 17 officers. Nine pieces of cannon were taken,--7 out of the 9 were loaded; this shows you how tight it was. Gen. T. captured more muskets from the enemy than we had in the fight against them—the biggest pile of ammunition you ever saw; 400 splendid mules, and baggage of all kinds enough to load the steamer “Harney.” We have lost about 150 killed and wounded—4 officers killed, 9 wounded. Gen. T, left the day before yesterday for Brazos to bring up his mortars, which we understand have arrived. He will also organize the volunteers expected. We look for him to-night and as soon as he arrives we shall commence operations against Matamoras, and will have it or faint in our traces. It is my opinion that we have crippled them so by the loss of their cannon, muskets and ammunition that they will be forced to retreat to Carmego [60 miles from here,] or Monterey [108,] but from indications they are fortifying the city and preparing to give us a street fight; let it be so—we are prepared for any event. The Anglo-Saxon never can acknowledge the corn to the cross of Negro and Indian. Some of us will get our pates cracked, but it is our profession. Nevertheless, mark what I say—unless everything we demand is granted our banner will in a few days wave from the walls of Matamoras.
Thursday, June 4, 1846, Volume 47, Number 14, Page 3, column 3 Words: 954
THE FLYING ARTILLERY—RINGGOLD—RIDGELY, &c.
We have before us a letter, dated “may11, Camp opposite Matamoras,” from an officer that participated in the two engagements which terminated so gloriously to our arms. The Palo Alto and La Resaco de la Palma. While, as citizens of the united States, we fell proud of the courage, judgement, and military skill, displayed by th eCommander-in-chief of our gallant little army, the heroic conduct of those more immediately represented our own State, cannot fail deeply to interest us as citizens of Maryland. It is to our purpose, in the present article, particularly to allude to the fine corps of Flying Artillery, which lately left our city, under the command of Maj. RINGGOLD. This corps, from its long station here, and from the intimacy of its officers and men with our citizens, has become so identified with the city of Baltimore as to be to it an object of particular regard. Its chief officer, the gallant RINGGOLD, had during a long residence, enshrined him in our the hearts and confidence of our citizens; and the attention paid by him to the corps under his command had anticipated for it honor in the time of action. Maj. RINGGOLD was mortally wounded in the battle of Palo Alto, and to the last retained the same consciousness and coolness which had characterized him at the head of his company.
Lieut. RANDOPH RIDGELY, likewise a Marylander, succeeded to the command of the Flying Artillery. Lieut. Ridgely distinguished himself in the Florida Wars. We have seen Col. BANKHEAD’s report of the battle of Locha Hatchee, in the 23th January, 1838,in which particular mentio is made of his gallantry.
During the engagement of the 8th, in which Major RINGGOLD was wounded, he had his horse shot under him. The following is an extract from the letter before us: “The fourth shot of the enemy struck the horse of Lieut. RIDGELY, in the head, killing the man to whom he was about to hand the bridle. Shortly after, Lieut. R. was detached with two pieces to another part of the field where he had hot work.”
The loss suffered by the Flying Artillery on this day was that of its major and this one man. The letter goes on to say; “The next day we took up our march. After proceeding about five miles, an express came back, ordering Lieut. RIDGELY to the front of his battery. He advanced and reported to the General who told him that the enemy occupied the road about half a mile ahead, with six or eight pieces of artillery, and in great force, on each side covered by the thick chapparel. Lieut. RIDGELY moved forward cautiously about twenty yards ahead of his pieces, when he perceived a few on the road about 400 yards in front. Instantly they opened their batteries upon him; he ordered a trot and went up rapidly until within 300 yards, and then returned their fire. This continued with great rapidity for some time—they having likewise infantry firing with them. We discovered they were falling back—limbered up and slashed ahead 150 yards, when we again saw them. We drove them back half a mile, when Capt. MAY rode up and enquired of Lieut. RIDGELY as to their position, stating that he was about to charge. Lieut. R. told him to wait until we gave them one round from all our pieces. He did so, and then rushed forward at the head of his cavalry—we following with our battery at full gallop. MAY succeeded in taking prisoner Gen. LA VEGA—the 2d in command—and drove them from their pieces, but suffered terribly from their musketry. We reached the edge of the ravine as he turned and saw two regiments about 60 yards off—at once halted, and as we were unlimbering our guns, their musketry and three pieces with grape, opened upon us. They knocked over eight horses and five men. We returned their fire with double vigor, and with the infantry, after about twenty minutes of the most terrible slaughter, put them to the route. We followed but had not oursued over 200 yards, when we came on their entire camp, took everything they had: all their ammunition, 9 pieces of artillery, 300 pack mules, personal baggage and private communications of their Commander General, ARISTA; his silver plate, etc. etc. Our force was about 1800, their about 6,000. Gen. LA VEGA says he has been in battles since his boyhood but never saw men rush up to the cannons mouth as our troops did; and could not think it possible for artillery to move as our batteries did. Lieut. RIDGELY was introduced to him as the officer who commanded the leading battery of whose effectiveness he particularly spoke. We lost in our company, 1 killed, 5 wounded, with 13 horses.”
We understand that in a letter to his family, Lieut. RIDGELY speaks in the highest terms of the gallantry and coolness with which he was supported by Lieuts SHOVER, FREEMONT, and FRENCH—and of the promptness and intrepidity of the men. This was indeed a bravely fought battle and glorious victory, and while with sincere grief we lament the fate of those who fell, it is with pride that we contemplate the gallant behaviour of the survivors. This blended feeling recalls to our minds the famous reply of the English King when told of the death of PERCY in “Chevy Case.”
Now, God be with him said our King.
‘Sith twill no better be,
I trust I have within my realm,
Five hundred good as he.
We hope that the “five hundred” will be sought out by our government, and not suffered to go unrewarded—Balt. Pat.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846, Volume 47, Number 15, Page 1, Columns 4-6. Words: 2237
U. States & Mexico.
MORE ABOUT THE WAR.
MARCH FROM CORPUS CHRISTI.
The following highly interesting letter from an officer in the American army, to his family in Germantown, Pa., giving the particulars of the march of the army from Corpus Christi to its present position opposite Matamoras, is copied from the Germantown Telegraph.
CAMP NEAR MATAMORAS, April 5, 1846.
I have the pleasure to inform you that my health is perfectly restored; for some time before leaving Corpus Christi I had been sick in the hospital with the diarrhea, and when we got the order to march to this place I was so weak and feeble, that I had to purchase a horse to carry me; but by the time we arrived at the Colorado, change of air, diet and water, produced a perfect cure, and I have been doing duty ever since. As our march to this place may be interesting to you, and having kept a journal on the route, I herewith send you a few extracts. We have lain encamped for eight months at Corpus Christi, exposed to all kinds of weather, from the burning rays of an almost vertical sun to the terrific “northers” which prevail in that part of Texas, bordering on the Gulf, during the fall and winter months; suffering sometimes in one day the extremes of burning heat and chilling cold.
On our arrival in Corpus Christi Bay, about fourteen low, shabby shantees contained the inhabitants of the so-called town. What a change! Three weeks had not elapsed before fifty grog shops had reared their hydra heads, and stood with open doors to invite the too easily-duped soldiers; gaming tables, ten-pin alleys, hot whiskey punch, tom and jerry—every thing that could afford the least attraction to the novelty-seeking soldier, were spread out before him, and many, alas! Too many, borne to their graves, the victims of intoxication and diseases of every kind arising from excess. But a ray of joy sprung up in every heart when the orders for marching were received. We marched in four divisions. First, the Dragoons and Flying Artillery on the 8th March, the first Brigade on the 9th, the 2d on the 10th, and the 3d on the 11th. Our camp was now all bustle. The women were, with one or two exceptions, to be left behind to take passage by water to Brassos Santiago. Packing up was the order of the day. Here and there might be seen groups of Mexicans bargaining with our men for wearing apparel, and giving cash for what they might have had for nothing in a few days, for we could not carry half our “plunder.”
The head of the column was again put in motion; the morning of the 11th shone most brightly and gave token of a beautiful day; all hands were in fine spirits for the march, and our former busy camp looked gloomy, as we cast our eyes along the line and marked the now desolate space so lately occupied by the other three divisions of the army. We were about to leave a place where had been filled to the brim the cup of bitterness—still a sort of regretful feeling hung over us—many a spot on the shore of shells had become endeared to us. At eight o’clock, precisely, we commenced our march, our music playing, “our colors floating in the breeze.” Our last adieus were half muttered, half cursed, as we threw back a glance at Corpus Christi. We had raised the bill and were just out of sight of the town, when the drum struck up “the girl I left behind me.” It certainly is a very pretty air, and very appropriate sometimes, when troops are marching; but my heart sent forth an amen as our commander rode up and hastily shouted, “Stop that, who told you to play that air?” After a march of twelve miles, through musquit timber and prairie grass, we halted on the banks of the Neueces, a most delightful stream, in fact the best water I had tasted in Texas.
Next day we marched over a splendid prairie through millions of flowers, the blooming cactus among the number; and halted early. We had halted but a moment when a troop of horse came rushing towards us about a mile distant, and seemed at first as if intending to take us by storm, when they suddenly wheeled and started in another direction. Our brigade commander knew not what to make of this expedition, and naturally concluded it was a party of Mexicans observing our movements, especially as the state of the atmosphere at the time loomed up the distant objects so as to give them the appearance of a mounted party.
An express was instantly sent out and returned in a few minutes, having ascertained them to be a drove of wild horses or Mustangs; from this circumstance the camp was called “Camp Mustang.”
Our short march of the previous day had revived all bands, and we started cheerfully on the morning of the 13th; we marched this day 11 miles over a rolling prairie covered with flowers of every hue. The odor was delightful; and the whole surface of the earth seemed covered with a beautiful carpet. The edge of the horizon in every direction was covered with wild animals, on one side thousands of wild horses were corveting about—on another herds of deer might be seen standing for a moment filled with wonder at sight of us, then bounding away as if a thousand devils chased them. Here rushed along the antelope with speed almost incredible, and in the distance might be seen countless numbers of them at play. Now and then we caught a sight of the Peccany or wild hog, looking much like a shingle navigating on four legs. The manouvering of the wild horses was decidedly wonderful, they would form into line of battle, and march accurately abreast toward us until a signal from one of them, they would break into platoons or sections, and be in a moment almost out of sigh, but the charge was sublime! I cannot describe it, and will not attempt. But only imagine a thousand wild steeds, with eyes flashing and limbs as unrestrained and free as the wind—whose manes the hand of man never touched—suppose them rushing in one line across the plain, with head erect, nostrils distended, and manes and tails flying in the breeze created by their flight, and you have partly seen it. Our Adjutant made chase after one of these droves, and was soon in the midst of them. He rode side and side for half an hour with a young colt, when his horse began to tire; at this moment the mother of the colt with a dozen others rushed like furies toward him, putting his horse into a fright. He was thrown from his seat head foremost, and lay senseless for some minutes.
We this night encamped on the “Los Pintos,.” We left on the 11th at daybreak and marched 14 miles through precisely the same description of country as the day before. The entire march was spent in exclamations of surprise and delight as each new object would present itself. Heads of antelopes, deer and wild horses would rush close past us. We encamped at “Santa Gertrudes.” On the 15th we started at day break, marched over the same description country as the preceeding day, and encamped in the evening among the “Santa Clara Mottes,” as the small groves of trees are called which are here and there seated over the prairie. Here the water was very bad, and scarce had fuel enough to cook with. On the 16th we reached early in the afternoon “Camp El Pista,” and on the 17th started at quarter past 5 o’clock; this day we crossed a salt lake, and marched through deep loose sand, not a vestige of vegitation. The teams have great difficulty to get along. The men were much fatigued this day, having marched 20 miles.
On the 18th we were detained till about 9 o’clock by the issue of rations. Our march this day was a scene of the most acute suffering ever felt. We marched through a sandy prairie—at every step we sank ankle deep in the burning white sand, with a piercing sun beaming down upon us, and not a breathe of air to relieve our misery. To add to our discomfort there was not a drop of fresh water for seventeen miles, while to aggravate our miseries we frequently came upon salt ponds; we at length arrived at a fresh water pond—the rush to it was tremendous; with what delight did I drink cup after cup of the dirty swamp water. Sick and sore with the privations of the preceding day we left “Camp Marcy,” (so called after the Secretary of War,) and now advanced into a perfect heaven upon earth. I wish I could describe this part of the country. If the garden of Eden was equal to it, what a treasure our first parents must have lost; here are the notes of ten thousand birds to charm the ear—hear are silver lakes, upon whose margin the dwarf honey-bean stands and casts just shade enough to give a celestial appearance to the whole; while from beds of flowers, on which imagination pictures millions of tiny fairy queens to be dancing, arises a perfume so grateful to the senses, that we were lost in wonder that such scenes should possibly exist and we not know it before.
We encamped this night at “Catecita,” 119 miles from Corpus Christi; and the next day (the 20th) passed through the same description of country. We saw in the afternoon and evening several large wild bulls, advancing at no great distance from us. On the 21st, we started very early, and at about 10 o’clock reached the Rio Colorado, a deep broad stream with high bluff banks. It was at the crossing of this river that Gen. TAYLOR expected to be attacked; the cavalry and 1st and 2d brigades reached the Colorado on the 20th; Col. CANALES with 5 or 6000 Mexicans were encamped on the opposite banks of the river; he told Gen. TAYLOR it was useless to attempt to cross—that the first man who put his foot into the water would be shot down—that he was only performing his duty, the neglect of which would certainly cost him his property, perhaps his life—that his feelings must give place for duty, &c. Gen. TAYLOR replied that the crossing was indespensable—was sorry for the Colonel’s feelings, &c., but positively he would cross, while Gen. WORTH, riding forward, exclaimed, “Come on boys, if there’s any shooting to be done I’ll have a hand in it—1st brigade! Forward!” and dashed into the stream followed by his command, (covered by the artillery, who were posted on the bank ready to return the first fire of the Mexicans.) They no doubt though that discretion was the better part of valor, so retreated without firing a shot.
On the 21st our Brigade came up with the main body of the army and encamped four miles from the Colorado. On the morning of the 23d the whole army moved for the Rio Grande. We marched 12 miles through a prairie of very high grass teeming with rattle snakes larger than I had ever seen before; a man of the 4th Infantry was bitten by one, but by the timely and skilful attention of the Surgeon, who scarified the wound until it bled freely, and then applied ammonia, he recovered. Not so with a mule bitten by a snake, he, poor devil, lay down in agonies and died in half an hour afterward. On the morning of the 24th, we debouched upon a prairie, and in a few minutes arrived at the forks of the road leading to Matamoras and Point Isabel. Gen. TAYLOR hearing that a number of houses at Point Isabel had been burnt down by order of Gen. MEJIA, started with the 2d Dragoons for that place, leaving the command of the army with Gen. WORTH. He moved us about 3 miles nearer Matamoras in consequence of our then position being a bad one, and a rumor that the force from Matamoras were on their march to give us battle. This night we slept, as the saying is, like a trooper’s horse—fully accoutred, our arms loaded and ready at a moment’s warning, but the morning came without even an alarm, to form a subject for a camp fire yarn. We remained at this camp until the morning of the 28th, Gen. TAYLOR having arrived from Point Isabel, finding the report untrue.
At half past six o’clock we marched toward Matamoras; the arms were closely inspected at reveille—the old priming thrown out and new substituted, as it was confidently expected we should be attacked in the course of our march. As we neared the city, we noticed Mexicans. To the brief question, “Matamoras,” they replied in very good English “one miles.” A moment after we saw the city; our bands struck up “Yankee Doodle.” The colors of each Regiment flung to the breeze and we marched opposite the city. We soon planted a flag staff and the stars and stripes were seen proudly waving under the guns of the citadel.
C. M.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 1, Column 6. Words: 618
CAPT. SAMUEL H. WALKER.
This officer is one of those rare spirits which a state of war will bring out from our citizen soldiers. His late unequalled conflict with the Mexicans, in which he lost nearly every man under his command, and his daring heroism in cutting his way to Gen. TAYLOR’s camp, have excited in the public mind a strong desire to know more of him. He is the same gentleman so frequently and honorably spoken of in Gen. GREEN’s journal of the Mier expedition. He is a native of Washington city, from whence he went into the Florida war, where in several campaigns he distinguished himself by his intrepid bravery. In 1842 he went to Texas, and during the invasion of that republic by Gen. WOLL, he was marked for his bold and daring conduct. After the Mexican general had retreated from San Antonio, and when he lay upon the Rio Hondo, WALKER and Capt. MCCULLOUGH crawled through his camp one night and spied out his position, and the next day, with the gallant HAYS, led the attack upon his rear guard. He then joined the celebrated expedition against Mier, and on the morning of that sanguinary battle, he, with three others—being the advance scout of the Texans—was taken prisoner and carried with his hands tied behind him to the headquarters of Gen. AMPUDIA. The Mexican general questioned him as to the Texan forces, and when WALKER informed him that the Texans had only three hundred men, AMPUDIA pompously replied: “Does that audacious handful of men presume to follow me into this strong place and attack me?” “Yes,” says WALKER, “make yourself content upon that subject, General, they will follow you into hell, and attack you there.” He was, with his comrades, then marched a prisoner to the city of Mexico.
At Salado, with the lamented Capt. CAMERON and Dr. BRENNEN, he led the attack upon the guards, overpowered them, and marched for Texas, when, after eating up all their horses and mules, and living for days upon their own urine, surrendered to the Mexican Gens. MERCIER and ORTAGO. He was again marched to Salado, where, with his comrades, he was made to draw in the celebrated black bean lottery, and every tenth man shot. Those that remained of the Texans were marched to the castle of Perote and the city of Mexico.—Here, while working on the streets in that city, he was struck by a Mexican corporal for not working faster, when with his spade he knocked down the corporal, which caused the guards to beat him nearly to death. His life was a long time despaired of, and upon his recovery, he, with two companions, scaled the walls of his prison after nightfall, and made his way to Texas, over a distance of more than a thousand miles. Before, however, they got out of the country, they were twice more imprisoned, and each time effected their escape. When he reached Texas again he joined Capt. HAYS, who, with fiften others, armed with Colt’s repeating pistols, fought 96 Cummanches, and defeated them, leaving 36 killed upon the ground. Here WALKER was run through the body with a Cumanche spear, and his life again despaired of. We now hear of him with 70 Texans, attacking 1,500 Mexicans, and all perishing in battle but himself and six others; and then, to crown, his wonderful life of daring, he cut his way, single handed, into Gen. TAYLOR’s camp from Point Isabel.
To such men Texas is indebted for her emancipation from Mexico. Few as they are, they have won her liberty, and have miraculously maintained it for ten years against all the boasted power of Mexico.—N. Y. Globe.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 1, Column 6, Words: 593
THE LATE MAJOR RINGGOLD
The deceased was the son of the late Gen. SAM RINGGOLD, of Washing ton county, Maryland. His mother was a daughter of Gen. JOHN CADWALADER, of Philadelphia; a distinguished citizen, in the days of the Revolution.
He entered the army, as a Lieut. In artillery on July 1818, having graduated, at West Point with much honor, being one of the five whose names were recorded as the most distinguished of the class. He was at once selected by Gen. SCOTT as one of his aids; and served in that capacity for several years, and ever enjoyed, to a very imminent degree, the confidence and friendship of that distinguished soldier. Pending the disturbances in South Carolina, in the year 1832. The deceased was there on duty, and he has repeatedly expressed his heartfelt gratification at the peaceful termination of the unhappy difficulties between the gallant peoples of that State and the General Government. When the Indian War occurred in Florida, the deceased, then a Captain of the Flying Artillery, was there on duty, actively employed, in various services, until the wasting effects of the climate had so impaired his health that he was prostrated by disease. For “meritorious service” in that campaign; he was awarded the rank of Brevet Major. He was afterwards selected by the Major General Commander-in Chief to organize a corps of Flying Artillery, and he paid every possible attention to instruction and discipline of this arm of the service. How faithfully he preformed his duty, in this respect, the wonderful performances of his admirable Corps at Fort McHenry, and other places and on the field of PALO ALTO—fully attest.
He never recovered from the effects of his exposure during the Florida campaign; and when ordered from Fort McHenry to join the Army in Texas, the experienced surgeons at this post strongly insisted upon his physical inability to go through with the campaign. But he strengthened himself for duty, and as far as was known here, he was never, for an hour, unfit for service since he left this fort. He fell in the fierce battle of the 8th ult. the same hall killing his horse under him, and wounded him mortally.
The deceased was an accomplished gentlemen, beloved by his friends, and truly respected by all who knew him. He was devoted to his profession, and justly appreciated the high responsibilities of an officer in command. He rigidly enforced discipline, at all times, in all things, and yet, probably no officer had more entirely the respect, the confidence, and the affectionate regard of all his officers and men, the gallant soldier of whom this brief sketch is given.
The deceased, in a letter to his immediate friends, written just as the army was about to march for Camp Isabel, (but which letter was only received only since the sad intelligence of his fall) spoke of the extreme probability of a serious recontre with the enemy, and expressed sure confidence in the riumph of our gallant little Army. But with characteristics coolness he also adverted the great probability of his own fall in battle; and, in anticipation of that event, he made a brief will, which was enclosed on that letter.
His patriotic words to a friendly officer who came to his assistance ought not to be forgotten: Don’t stay with me; you have work to do: go ahead.”
Such was the tale of the late Major RINGGOLD; and such brave and gallant men make our army, small as it is, an invincible host.—Balt. Paper
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 1, Column 6, Words: 690
CAPTAIN MAY
This gallant officer has immortalized himself. A friend who has watched his equestrian movements at the camp describes him as a most singular being. With a beard extending to his breast, and hair to his hip bone, which, as he cuts through the wind on his charger, streams out in all directions, he presents a most imposing appearance. His gait on foot is awkward, and that of his horse (an immense one) is the rack of a Canadian pony. We are glad to quote the annexed paragraph from the last evenings Courier:--“We have seen a letter from this gallant officer to his brother, in this city, dated Point Isabel, May 13. It was received last Sunday by the Col. HARNEY: The Captain tells his brother that the squadron at the head of which he charged the enemy’s battery, contained 82 men; and of these he lost one officer and 10 privates killed, and 13 wounded,--28 horses killed and 10 wounded—that is nearly one-third of his men and almost half his horses hors du combat. The Captain himself was not touched, which fortunate circumstances owing to his being about ten yards in advance of his squadron in the charge.
The Captain was born in the city of Washington, where his father, Dr. MAY, who died a few years ago, was highly respected by his fellow citizens of all classes; he left six or seven sons; all fine looking men, not one of them under six feet in height. The Captain, who has so highly distinguished himself in the late operations along the Rio Grande, some years ago, when he was a youth, attracted the attention of Gen. JACKSON by his fine horsemanship, and the old chief appointed him a cornet in one of the regiments of the Dragoons, then organising. The General was a good judge of men, and in the instance of young MAY, his presentment has been fully verified.”—N.O. Tropic, May 10.
“MEN WE MUST TAKE THAT BATTERY!”
These were the words of Capt. MAY to his soldiers when he made his brilliant charge at the “Battle Resaca de le Palma,” on the 9th of May. [That of the 8th is called the “Battle of Palo Alto,” and it was in this Major RINGGOLD was killed]. The Washington Union says it has seen a letter from the Point (Isabel), written on the 13th of May, which furnishes a few interesting additional items of news connected with Gen. TAYLOR’s action of the 10th. With the permission of the gentlemen to whom it was addressed, we here present our readers with a condensed synopsis of its contents:
“Capt. MAY’s squadron , ordered by the General at all risk to silence the battery threatening to snatch the victory from us, consisted of some seventy dragoons. Of these, in this charge, one officer and nine men were killed, and ten were wounded. Twenty eight of the horses were also killed, and eleven were wounded. The loss sustained in this gallant affair is alone proof of the daring intrepidity of the squadron engaged, whose leader (MAY,) by-the-by, cleared the enemy’s breast-work ten yards in advance of his troop. He was mounted on his favorite old charger, Tom (wounded in this affair) known to many officer of this army as having borne him successfully through numerous fights and skirmishes in the Florida campaign. This I believe, was the horse on which he led the charge on the camp of Phillip, the head chief of the Seminoles, on which occasion it will be recollected that Capt. (then Lieut) MAY knocked down and then secured the chief in the act of raising his rifle to shoot him.
“Gen. VEGA, who in this affair became a prisoner to Capt. MAY, is said to be one of the bravest and most accomplished officers of the Mexican army.”
Well did this young and ardent officer carry out the laconic officer order of Gen. TAYLOR to which he made the reply so characteristic of the soldier. “Sir,” said the general, “you must take that battery.” “Men,” said the captain in reply, “we must take that battery! Follow!”
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 1, Column 6, Words: 212
“IF I GO TO WAR I WILL BE SHOT.”
[General Observation]
The astrologer’s answer to the above depends on the aspects of the heavenly bodies as the birth of an individual. For instance if born under the sun and that planet in conjunction with Mars, unassisted by fortunate stars, the native so born would die on the battle field, or on the seas, as the case may be. Persons born in the moon in conjunction with Mars, should avoid the frontier; but those born when the luminaries were in good aspect with Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, and Mars, may venture into the stormiest part of the battle with safety, like NAPOLEAN when he crossed the bridge Lodi. WINFIELD SCOTT will never die on the battle-field; nor would Commodore STUART on the rolling seas; neither would R.M. JOHNSON, should he venture once more. Gen. CADWALLADER may venture out freely; so Gen. PATTERSON as well as Col. JAMES PAGE. Such persons have an anxious desire to avenge their country’s honor, may write the astrologer, at Washington, after Monday, May 18, and they will be correctly instructed as to the strength and dignity of Mars at their birth or nativity. In all cases one dollar enclosed, and postage paid, will receive immediate answer. THOS. HAGUE; Astrologer.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 2, Column 1 Words: 242
MILITARY SPIRIT OF BERKELEY
We are truly delighted to see that the Military spirit of “Old Berkeley” is reviving. We could at one time number several well drilled Volunteer Companies in the County, but of late years we have had none. Things, however, are about to take a change. We learn from the “Republican” that on Saturday last, pursuant to the orders of the Commandant of the Regiment, the new LIGHT INFANTRY Company met and elected the following gentlemen, Officers—
EPHRAIM G.A. ALEURTIS, Captain:
WILLIAM T.R. SAFFELLl 1st Lieutenant;
PHILIP S. CUMMINGHAM, 2d Lieut.
EVERHART RAENAELL, 3d Lieut.
J.Q.A. NADENBOUSCH 4th Lieut.
This company expect to be in full uniform by the 4th of July next.
We also learn from the Republican that a Company is being formed at Gerardstown and that they will meet on Saturday next, the 13th inst., for the election of Officers.
A reference to our advertising columns will also show that “the Company of Cavalry” will meet at the “Martinsburg House” on Saturday next, the 13th, for the election of Officers—and that on the succeeding Saturday, the 29th inst., there will be another meeting held at the “United States Hotel” for the formation of another Infantry or Rifle Corps and the election of Officers. There is abundant material for the formation of all these Companies, and we hope to see a generous rivalry among them as to which shall be the most energetic and best drilled Corps in the County.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 2, Column 2 Words: 231
GENERAL SCOTT
The House of Representatives on Thursday last adopted a resolution limiting the number of Major Generals, at the close of the Mexican War, to one, and giving the President the privilege of selecting the one to be retained. We do not wish “to kick before we are spurred,” but it does not seem to us that this is a blow aimed at Gen. SCOTT. The Senate has not yet acted on the resolution of the House, and we think the majority of that body will not pass it. Yes, we look to the Senate with confidence, to kill in the bud all such disgraceful attempts to tarnish the fame of one of the most gallant generals belonging to the history of the United States. We can tell our opponents one thing, that, when they succeed in driving the glories of Chippewa, and the splendors of Lundy’s Lane from the minds and hearts of the American people, then they can strike down their gallant hero—but not until then. As well might they attempt to destroy the glories of Lexington, and Bunker Hill, and Trenton, and the fame of Washington. Away with such unworthy conduct. We know not that Gen. SCOTT will be a candidate for the next Presidency, (he is not our first choice,) but if he is the people will show the politicians that they know who Winfield Scott is!
Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 2, column 4 Words: 1518
LATE FROM THE SEAT OF WAR
FROM THE NEW ORLEANS DELTA OF MAY 28.
Matamoras taken without opposition—Mexican Soldiers deserting in great nmbers—Additional particulars of the action of the 8th and 9th of May.
The steamship telegraph is just in. By the following synopsis of the latest news from the seat of war, it will be seen that the Rubieon, or the Rio Grande, is crossed by the advanced division of our gallant little Army, and that the enemy fled before them, leaving their towns and forts, and permitting them to fall in possession of our gallant army without a defensive shot. The glorious and well fought battles of the 8th and 9th have struck terror into the enemy, and decided, it would appear, the fate of the campaign.
From the Galveston News, Extra, May 21.
MATAMORAS TAKEN!
The steamship Telegraph had just arrived from Point Isabel. Through the politeness of her obliging clerk we have been furnished with the following information:
He reports that in the 17th inst., a detachment of 300 regulars and 250 volunteers proceeded to Barita and took possession of it and established a military depot.
On the night of the 19th an express arrived from Gen. TAYLOR, stating that he had crossed the Rio Grande and had taken the city of Matamoras without opposition—the Mexicans having fled from the city.
The Mexicans, from the last accounts were deserting their ranks in battalions. Two American regiments, with the exception of about 350 men, having marched a few days previous, were stationed at the Brazos Point, awaiting the orders of Gen. TAYLOR as it was thought they would leave on the 20th for Matamoras, via the old Barita road.
Col. McINTOSH, Capt. PAGE and all the others that were wounded in the actions of the 8th and 9th are at Point Isabel and are recovering. The Telegraph is 26 hours from Point isabel. Capt. AULD of the Telegraph who has had opportunities for obtaining the correct information, has given us some interesting particulars in relation to our army operations. We have now scarcely time to allude to them.
The escape of Capt. THORNTON, at the time his company was so badly cut up, is most incredible. After carrying him safely over a high bridge enclosure into which he had been decoyed, his horse carried him safely over several very high fences and very deep ravines, swimming the Rio Grande above Matamoras, rhen passing down below the town on the opposite side. In attempting to leap a broad ditch, he missed footing when both horse and rider were thrown. By the fall Capt. T. was so stunned that he was soon after taken up by the Mexicans perfectly unconscious of what had happened.
After the battle of the 9th, he was exchanged and restored to our army. Capt. AULD thinks the whole number of our killed and wounded must amount to more than 300, besides the wounded taken to St. Joseph.
There are now 40 at Point Isabel, to badly wounded to be removed. All but three it is thought will recover. There are three Mexican prisoners having but one leg among them all.
After being shot in the arm, Col. McINTOSH received a bayonet wound in the mouth, which passed through one side of his head. There are hopes of his recovery.
The condition of the brave and esteemed Capt. PAGE is melancholy indeed. The whole of his lower jaw, with part of tongue and his pallet are shot away by grape shot. He however, survives, although entirely deprived of speech.
He communicates his thoughts by writing on a slate and receives nourishment for the support of life with much difficulty. He does not desire to live, but converses with cheerfulness and exultation on the subject of the army.
All our accounts represent the Mexicans as having fought on the 9th with courage and desperation that would have reflected credit upon the troops of any nation.
They were nearly in a state of starvation and had been promised the ample supplies of the American camp in case they would secure the victory.
They met the charges of our troops manfully, and stood the destructive fire that was poring in upon them, without giving way until their works were encumbered with the dead and wounded.
From the Galveston News, May 22.
The sloop Orange, Branch Capt. UNDERHILL, arrived yesterday,21 hours from Indian Point, near Port Lavaca.
Capt. U. says that a report reached Victoria last Friday, that one hundred Germans, escorting one hundred wagons from New Braunfels to the new settlement on the San Salsa, seventy miles above, were suddenly attacked by a large body of Comanches, supposed to number several thousand, whereupon the emigrants abandoned their wagons, seeking security, leaving their property in the hands of the savages. There appears to be some uncertainty as to the numbers, etc., but the main facts are substantially correct.
Capt. U.also informs us that a report came overland to Port Latavaca last Sunday, to the effect that a large body if Indians, consisting of warriors of several tribes comprising the warriors of the Comanche nation, were hovering about the entrenchments opposite Matamoras, wjth a view doubtless to join the victorious party, and share in the plunder of the defeated.
On the 19th it was reported that three thousand men had crossed the river, and none of the volunteers had yet gone over. Nothing further had been heard of the reinforcements that were reported to be on their way to the releif of AMPUDIA.
Col. SOMPTON found a Mexican three days hence in a thicket. As soon as he was discovered he threw away his arms, saying that he had been fighting a month with nothing but bread and water provisions, that he now wished to surrender to the American forces, as he would fight no longer under the Mexican Government, and that two thirds of the whole Mexican force wished to do the same.
LATER.
Arrival at New Orleans of the steamer Galveston and James L. Day—Confirmation of the capture of Matamoras. An armistice asked by ARISTA, American terms declined—U.S. squadron ordered to Pensacola, to prepare for attack on Vera Cruz.
FROM THE N.O. TROPIC
The Galveston, Capt. WRIGHT, has just arrived, having left Point Isabel on Wednesday, 27th inst.
The news brought by her is confirmatory of the capture of Matamoras. The Mexicans were encamped about twenty miles up the river. Both the Americans and the Mexicans were waiting for reinforcements, when another battle was expected. The Mexican army left a large amount of ammunition at Matamoras, which is a valuable acquisition to Gen. TAYLOR’s supplies.
The Mexicans having previously destroyed large quantities by filling up the wells in the city, and throwing some into the river, Gen. TAYLOR, like true hearted American officer, gave orders to his army not to take the slightest article without paying for its full value.
The citizens of Matamoras were permitted to transact business as usual, with the exception of selling liquors. Com. CONNER, with most os fhe squadron had gone to Pensacola to refit and reinforce before making an attack on Vera Cruz. Capts PLATT and ELLMORE’s companies of Alabama volunteers were safely landed at Point Isabel, on the 26th inst. The James L. Day, Capt. GRIFFIN, has arrived, but brings nothing later. A part of Col. TWIGGS Regiment of Dragoons under command of Capt. MAY, ARNOLD, and KERR arrived at Point Isabel on the 25th inst. to recruit their horses.
From the New Orleans Bulletin
The Mexican army had retreated to Camargo. A passenger aboard the Galveston has furnished us with some interesting details connected with intelligence received by previous accounts. On the 17th inst. a large portion of Gen. TAYLOR’s army moved up the river for the purpose of crossing.
Gen. TAYLOR remained at the fortifications with about 300 men, as the army were seen by the Mexicans on the opposite side of the river to leave the encampment and approach the Fort.
ARISTA sent a flag of truce to Gen. TAYLOR, requesting an armistice of six weeks, giving as a reason for his request, he desired to communicate with his government. Gen. TAYLOr said he would give him until 8o’clock tomorrow morning to evacuate the city of Matamoras, and would permit him to take the public property under his charge
The flag then returned. On the next day, 18th, the army croosed on blats of their own construction and bodies of wagons caulked. The passage was made about four miles above Fort Brown.
On arriving at the city, it was discovered that ARISTA had departed with his forces, leaving only the mounted battery, all the mortars, and all of the military aperatus as could not be removed in their haste to escape, were thrown into the wells.
The party from our army went out to reconnoitre immediately after the entrance into Matamoras, and overtook a portion of the Mexicans, who were retreating, 22 of whom were made prisoners. It is understood that Gen ARISTA’s headquarters are at San Fernadino, about 90 miles from Matamoras.
The wounded of the American Army are understood to be doing well.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page2, Column 4, Words: 752
LATEST
The port of Vera Cruz blockaded—The powers of American consuls unveiled—Americans ordered to the interior of the country—Efforts of the government to maintain the War, &c.
FROM THE BALT. AMERICAN
The barque Thaetus, Capt. MERRIL, from Vera Cruz arrived at new Orleans on the 30th ult. Brings dates from the city of Mexico on the 15th and from Vera Cruz to the 20th Ult. From the Picayune and the Delta of the 31st Ult. we make up the following interesting summary of news:
We learn that the U.S. steamship Mississippi arrived off Vera Cruz on the 18th, bringing the intelligence of the glorious battles of the 8th and 9th inst. but very wisely the news was only communicated to a few Americans in the city. The port was immediately blockaded by the Mississippi and the Falmouth.
The T. was boarded by the U.S. ship Falmouth and took a letter bag from her. The brig St. Petersburg sailed on the 19th for New York.
Orders had been received by the American citizens, from the city of Mexico, directing them to leave Vera Cruz by the 24th, inst. or move into the interior. It was expected that our consul would go on board one of our vessels. On the 18th inst. an American vessel approached the port and was immediately boarded by our officers and forbidden to enter the port. In the night, however, she succeeded in slipping into the port. There were two American vessels in port when T. left—the bark Louisiana, and the brig Helen McLeod—which ha partially discharged their cargoes but under order from the minister General of War and Marine, they would probably be seized. From all we can gather the Government is making the greatest exertions straining every nerve to carry on the war with the utmost vigor, and by the most arbitrary measures had replenished the treasury.
The call for volunteers from Missouri was so promptly met that seven companies from the interior of the State which had gone had gone to St. Louis were not received, and had returned home. The St. Louis Era says on this subject:
“A call for more troops than is necessary or wanted has a bad effect on the alacrity for which Western Volunteers are celebrated in flying to arms, and in the future they are not likely to be so prompt, but will wait to see whether there is a certainty of their being employedbefore they put themselves to any trouble or inconveniance in starting. There are still four companies remaining, the greater portion of which will start for their houses today or tomorrow. Finer looking or braver men we never saw, and we regret that they will not be permitted to distinguish themselves and the state whence they came in the battle field.”
It would appear from the following article that the War Department at Washington does not conduct its affairs with the precision should mark its movement at a time like the present:
Volunteers for Santa Fe—Considerable dissatisfaction was manifested yesterday at the orders, from Jefferson City, in relation to the raising of four hundred mounted volunteers, a part of the one thousand required by the U. States. To be placed under the command of Col. KEARNBY. There are hundreds here who are anxious to fo but the vague and indefinite character of the order make it uncertain how they are to go, in many important particulars; so much so that many are unwilling to enroll themselves.
“It is understood that the companies are to consist of one hundred and fourteen man—an unusual number, and not in accordance with the requirements of the recent act of congress or the instruction of the War Department. Again it is understood that although they and their horses will be inspected by col. CAMPBELL, here, yet they will not be mustered into the service until they reach Fort Leavenworth where they may be accepted or rejected as Col. KEARNEY may choose. There is no specification of how the regiment is to be constituted; whether the companies will compose one or two regiments; who is to have the command, or how the field officers are to be chosen.
“These and other objections, whether well or ill founded, have had a great effect upon the zeal of the volunteers for this service, so much so, that we are told, already raised could be made ready for service in a few days, will probably decline tendering their services.”
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 2, Column 4, Words: 120
OPINIONS OF SANTA ANNA ON THE WAR
The New Orleans Picayune of the 9th ult., says “The latest news received in Havana from Vera Cruz was to the 1st instant; not so late as our own advises threat. A gentlemen who recently arrived here from Havana talked freely with General Santa Anna upon Mexican Affairs. He depreciated the war with the united States, as sure to be disastrous with Mexico. He spoke of the monarchial projects in Mexico as destined to certain failure, he believing that a majority of the people would prefer even annexation to the United States to the rule of a Spanish Prince. SANTA ANNA had, it is said, no intention of returning to Mexico at present, and has recently rented a new house.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 2, Column 4, Words: 21
General ALMONTE regards the insurrectionary attempt of Gen. ALVAREZ as one of great moment, and very difficult to be but down.
Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 2, Column 4, Words: 133
BOUNDARY OF TEXAS—The first Congress that assembled in the Republic Texas after the adoption of the Constitution, adopted the following “Act to define the boundaries of Texas.”
Be it enacted, &c., That from and after the passage of this act, the civil and political jurisdiction of the Republic, be, ad is hereby declared, to extend to the following boundaries to wit: the beginning of the mouth of the Sabine river, running west along the Gulf of Mexico three leagues from the land to the mouth of the Rio Grande, then up the principle of said river to its source, then due north tot he 42nd degree of north latitude, thence along the boundary line as defined in the treaty between the United States and Spain to the beginning.
SAM HOUSTON, Pres’t.
Approved, Dec. 19, 1836.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 3, Column 2 Words: 46
ATTENTION CAVALRY!
THE Company of Cavalry now established within the bounds of the 67th Regiment will meet at the “Martinsburg House,” in the town of Martinsburg, on Saturday the 13th of June, at 3 o’clock, P.M. for the election of officers.
EDMUND P. HUNTER,
Col. 67th reg. V.M.
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Thursday, June 11, 1846. Volume 47, Number 15, Page 3, Column 2, Words: 54
MILITARY NOTICE
THERE will be a meeting of those dispossessed to form a new Infantry or Rifle Corpse within the bounds of the 67th Regiment, held at the U.S. Hotel, in the town of Martinsburg, on Saturday the 20th inst., at 3 o’clock, P.M. for the election of officers.
EDMUND P. HUNTER,
Col. 67th reg. V.M.
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Thursday, June 25, 1846. Volume 47, Number 17, Page 2, Column 6 Words: 730
STATE OF THE FINANCES MESSAGE
Of the President of the United States, in answer to the resolution of the Senate of June 3, 1846, calling for information relative to the finances, &c.
To the Senate of the United States:
In answer to the resolution of the senate of the 3rd inst., I communicate herewith esimates prepared by the War and the Navy Departments, of the probable expenses of conducting the existing war with Mexico during the remainder of the present and the whole of the next fiscal year. I communicate also, a report of the Secretary of the Treasury, based upon these estimates, containing recommendations of measures for raising the additional means required. It is probable that the actual expenses incurred during the period specified will fall considerably below the estimates submitted, which are for a larger number of troops than have been called to the field. As a precautionary measure, however, against any possible deficiency, the estimates have been made at the largest amount which any state of service will require.
It will be perceived from the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, that a cunsiderable portion of the additional amount required may be raised by a modification of the rates of duty imposed by the existing tariff laws. The high duties at present levied on many articles totally exclude them from importation, whilst the quantity and amount of others which are imported are greatly diminished. By reducing these duties to a revenue standard, it is not doubted that a large amount of articles on which they are imposed would be imported, and a corresponding amount of revenue be received at the treasury from this source. By imposing revenues on many items now permitted to be imported free of duty, and by regulating the rates within the revenue standard upon others, a large amount of additional revenue will be collected. Independently of the high considerations, which induced me, in my annual message, to recommend a modification and reduction of the rates of duty, imposed by the acts of 1842, as being not only proper in a reference to a state of peace, but just to all the great interests of the country, the necessity of such modification and reduction as a war measure must now be manifest. The country requires additional revenue for the prosecution of the war. It may be obtained, to a great extent, by reducing the prohibitary and highly protective duties imposed by the existing laws to revenue rates; by imposing revenue duties on the free list ; and by modifying the rates of duty on other articles.
The modification recommended by the Secretary of the Treasury in his annual report of December last, were adapted to a state of peace, and the additional duties now suggested by him, are with a view strictly to raise revenue as a war measure. At the conclusion of the war these duties may and should be abolished, and reduced to lower rates.
It is not apprehended that the existing war with Mexico will materially affect our trade and commerce with the rest of the world. On the contrary, the reductions proposed would increase that trade, and augment the revenue derived from it.
When the country is in a state of war, no contingency should be permitted to occur in which their would be a defeicency in the treasury, for the vigorous prosecution of the war; and to guard against such an event it is recommended that contingent authority be given issue treasury notes, or to contract a loan for a limited amount, reimbursable at an early day. Should no occasion arise to exercise the power, still it may be important that the authority should exist there be a necessity for it.
It is not deemed necessary to resort to direct taxes or excises—the measures recommended being deemed preferable as a means of increasing the revenue. It is hoped that the war with Mexico, if vigorously prosecuted, as is contemplated, may be of short duration. I shall at all times be ready to conclude an honorable peace, whenever the Mexican government shall manifest a like disposition. The existing war has been rendered necessary by the acts of Mexico; and whenever that power shall be ready to do us justice, we shall be prepared to sheath the sword, and tender to her the olive branch of peace.
JAMES K. POLK.
Washington, June 16, 1846.
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Thursday, June 25, 1846. Volume 47, Number 17 Page 3, Columns 3 and 4 Words: 1508
LATE FROM MEXICO.
FROM GALVESTON AND RIO GRANDE—FIRST MOVEMENT OF INVASION OF MEXICO.
From the New Orleans Picayune, June 14.
The steamship Galveston, Capt. WRIGHT, was towed up to town at an early hour yesterday morning by the towboat Star. By here we have received Galveston papers to the 10th inst., and our correspondence from the army. They bring up the news from the Rio Grande to the latest dates, and will be found interesting.
Among the passengers brought by the Galveston were Gov. P. M. BUTLER, of South Carolina, Maj. MCCREA, U. S. Quarter Master, Maj. BELL; Capt. HAWKINS; Capt. HOOE; Dr. MOORE, of the Army; Com. MOORE, of Texas; Lieut. HOOK, of the Navy, and a number of officers of the army on the recruiting service.
We regret to say that Gov. BUTLER reached here in a very low state of health, but we are in hopes that a few days of quiet and repose will bring him up speedily.
On Saturday the 7th inst., Lieut. Col. WILSON left Matamoras for Rienoso, making the first movement towards the invasion of Mexico by the American Army. Col. WILSON has comman of five hundred strong, composed as follows:
“The four companies of the first Regiment of Infantry, Brevet Maj. ABERCROMBIE, Company K; Capt. MILLER, Company C; Capt. BACKUS, Company G.; Capt. LA MOTTE, Company C, and Capt. PRICE’s Company of Texas Rangers, with a section of Lieut. BRAGG’s Battery, under Lieuts. THOMAS and JOHNSTONE.”
This movement is highly interesting, because it opens the ball of carrying the war into the enemy’s country. Reinoso is a small town on the Rio Grande, sixty miles from Matamoras, and containing about one thousand inhabitants. It is presumed that Col. WILSON and the brave soldiers under him, will take it without a blow,--at least the soldiers fear such will be the case.
The volunteers are in good health and spirits—very few cases of sickness.
Volunteers have at last begun to pour into Galveston freely. From the news of the 9 th inst., we copy the following:
“A fully company, under Capt. ARNOLD, arrived by the steamer SAMUEL M. WILLIAMS on the 5 th inst. They are from Nacogdoches, and carry a standard with the words “Old Nacadgdoches” on it. They are fine looking men, and have had a most fatiguing march on foot, of several hundred miles. They have been mustered into service and received their arms, which can hardly fall into better hands to do good service.
“A company from Jasper and Jefferson counties arrived from Sabine, by water, last Saturday the 6th, commanded by Capt. CHESHIRE, who was in the battle of San Jacinto. These have also been received, and left for Point Isabel on the schooner Vesta, Capt. FISK, this morning.
“A company of mounted men, under Capt. L. S. BALLOO, left Brazoria for the seat of war on the 27th ult. About 20 persons had left that county previously with the same destination.
“By this arrival we have received the first two numbers of the “Republic of the Rio Grande and Friend of the people.” The first number is dated June 1st , and the second June 8th. The motto of the paper is ‘Fear not—the brave and generous soldier is only to be feared in the field of battle.’ The paper is edited by H. MCCLEOD. The leading articles are printed both in English and Spanish.—The purpose is to convince the people of Tamaulipas, Coahuila, New Leon, and Chihuahua of the futility of resisting American arms, and to throw upon the Administration of Paredes the responsibility of the war. A separation of the Departments named above from the central government of Mexico is the distinct aim of this new paper.
“We find in the News the prospectus of the Rio Grande Herald, a paper which Messrs. Bangs & Lewis propose to publish at Matamoras, or some convenient point near the main army.”
The “Republic of the Rio Grande and Friend of the People,” of the 8th instant, has the following—
Movements of the Enemy.—A traveler from Tampico met a Government carrier between that place and Victoria, about ten days ago, hunting for the Mexican army, for whom he bore orders, he said, to retreat upon Tampico. This would seem to indicate that the Government considered the day as definitely lost in this quarter, or were unable to reinforce their army sufficiently to enable it to stand another battle, and were collecting its fragments for the defence of Vera Cruz.
The port of Tampico was not blockaded, he states, as vessels were entering and departing, though an American sloop of war—the St. Mary’s—was in sight. Mr. SCHATZELL and the other Americans, who were so rudely driven from Matamoras by AMPUDIA, had reached Tampico in safety, though shaken in health by their forced journey of three hundred miles.—They took shipping on the 23d ult. for this place, where they may be hourly expected.
ARISTA’s retreat will doubtless continue to the mountains. After losing the day with five to one at Palo Alto and Raseca de la Palma, it is not likely that he will make another stand on the plains. Gen. TAYLOR takes the field with so overwhelming a force, and so admirably equipped in that terrible arm, the light artillery, that it would be madness in the enemy to fight again, where defeat would be certain and retreat impossible. Monterey is the first position of any natural strength and it also commands the entrance of the mountain pass of Saltillo. It is there, in all probability, that ARISTA will make his great effort, which the importance of the object, his wounded pride, and the advantages of the ground, will all conspire to make a brilliant but a bloody day in the history of this war.
We understand that CANALES is at Olmitas Ranco, five leagues on this side of Reynosa, levying contribution upon the people, and plundering them of all their mules and other moveable property. He has closed the road and intercepts all communication from this direction, treating all those who are suspected of coming from this place with the greatest harshness.
From the New Orleans Delta, June 14.
The particulars of the recent Indian Treaty, is the most important news which we find in the papers received by the Galveston. Eleven tribes were fully represented, and all the chiefs signed the treaty, and declared their determination to assist in punishing all who might violate it. One of the objects of the delegation of Indians who have accompanied Gov. BUTLER to Washington City, is to fix upon a line of boundary, within which to restrict the occupation of the Indians. The points settled by the treaty are thus enumerated:
The Indians acknowledge themselves under the protection of the United States, and recognize no other authority, pledging themselves to perpetual amity and friendship with the people of the United States, and all friendly Indians.
They agree not to form alliances with the enemies of the country, and to give notice of any contemplated invasion or impending danger.
Each tribe is to give notice of any violation of the treaty on the part of the other.
They are to give up all prisoners; and aid the authorities of the U. S. in obtaining them.
They pledge themselves to desist from all murder and depredation, and to surrender all offenders to be tried by the laws of the U. S.
The U. S. have the right to establish agencies and trading houses among them, and to establish military post, &c.
They concede to the U. S. the right of control over all trade and intercourse, and will in no instance seek personal redress for injuries, either to person or property, but will in such cases apply to the U. S. agent.
They concede the right to introduce among them ministers of the gospel and school teachers.
They agree to prohibit the introduction of spirituous liquors among them, and to give notice of the violation of this provision.
The U. S., in consideration of these stipulations on the part of the several Indian tribes represented at the treaty, agree to make peace for them with all their enemies, to give them presents every fall, &c., as usual in similar treaties.
The E-se-qua-i-as and Mescaleros, numbering together about 5000 souls, who are branches of the Lipans and allies of the Camanches, and came recently from the Mexican prairies, are included among the tribes represented by the treaty. The Camanches are anxious to conciliate them.
One white child and four Mexican boys were ransomed from the Camanches. The two Parker children were seen, and arrangements have been made to procure them by frost.
A party of eleven of the Tonkaway Indians recently visited the new Dutch Colony of Castroville, and stole three horses. The owners of the horses immediately pursued, overtook, and killed three of the Indians, and recovered the horses.
Col. HARNEY, of the U. S. Dragoons, has recently made a requisition upon the Governor of Texas for seven companies of men, to assist in the defence of the frontier.
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Thursday, June 25, 1846. Volume 47, Number 17, Page 3, Column 4. Words: 540
LATEST.
We have New Orleans papers of the 15th instant, from which we extract the following items:
From the Tropic.
IMPORTANT RUMOR FROM THE ARMY.
A letter was received in town yesterday, which stated that Gen. ARISTA had sent proposals to Gen. TAYLOR for an armistice, and that he had established his head quarters at Monterey with 15,000 men. Gen. TAYLOR is said to have sent back an answer that “he would meet Gen. ARISTA at Montery.” We have no doubt of the truth of this rumor.
THE OREGON TREATY.
The ratification of the treaty of limits between the U. States and G. Britain, says the Balt. American, relative to the territory beyond the Rocky Mountains, took place in the Senate on Thursday by a vote of 41 yeas and 14 nays.—This decisive act removes a cause of difficulties which has greatly disturbed the relations of the two countries, and gives an assured prospect, we may hope, of long continued peace between the respective parties to this new bond of amity.
The achievement of this peaceful and honorable settlement of a complicated question, pregnant with the elements of war, is to be regarded as a signal triumph of the wisdom and conservative virtue of the country over the rash, reckless and impetuous spirit of the day—over the machinations of such political aspirants as sought to rise on the tide of the martial enthusiasm of the people, kindled into an artificial excitement by sophisticated appeals to that patriotism which is the instinct of every American. The sacredness of the latter feeling, its wide spread strength, its deep and enduring strength—when we consider these and the dangers of its perversion and the aptitude of demogogues to strive to pervert it for their own purposes, we shall find abundant cause for congratulation at the peaceful result now so happily reached.
“When I read the speeches of Mr. WEBSTER, Mr. CALHOUN and Mr. BENTON”—we quote from LORD ABERDEEN in the House of Lords—“I feel anxious to forget all the idle declamation which has been wafted from the other side of the Atlantic.” Thus it is that statesmanship vindicates itself; the calm voice is heard most distinctly even in the midst of tumultuous uproar. When the British went on to express the hope that an adjustment of limits would be had in Oregon and that the treaty for the settlement of that boundary might be a preclude to a more intimate connection between England and the United States, “that vast commonwealth of free people”—he expressed a hope which will find a reciprocity of feeling on this side of the Atlantic. Against British arrogance and British ambition, should either be exhibited in our international intercourse, there would be in the minds of our people a sentiment of strong repugnance and resistance; but for intimations of amity, of courtesy, of friendly association, given in a frank and cordial spirit, there can be no other return on our part but one of equal frankness and cordiality. Let us hope that the good understanding now established may long continue, that it may strengthen by its continuance and give rise to increased intercourse, to the benefit and welfare of both parties and of the world.
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