NNR 70.337 Gen. Mariano Paredes y Arillaga requests permission, which is granted, to place himself in command of the Army in the north, arrangements with regard to other Mexican commanders
NNR 70.337-70.338 consideration by the Mexican Congress of a declaration of war against the United States
NNR 70.341-70.342 letter from "The Corporal"with the Army of Occupation at Matamoros
NNR 70.342 visit of British naval officers to Gen. Zachary Taylor
NNR 70.343 drowning of two members of the Georgia volunteers
NNR 70.343 refusal of two Louisiana regiments for service in Mexico
NNR 70.343 legal decision on deserters from the Alabama volunteers
NNR 70.343 death of C. J. McNulty of the Ohio volunteers
NNR 70.343 secretary of war declines calling the South Carolina regiment into service
NNR 70.343 Chihuahua expedition by US dragoons
NNR 70.343 dispute between Col. Stephen Watts Kearny and Col. Sterling Price
on infantry to be raised for the Santa Fe expedition
NNR 70.343 arrival of the first, second, and third regiments of Ohio volunteers at New Orleans
NNR 70.343 arrival of five companies of Indiana volunteers at New Orleans
NNR 70.343 full complement of New York volunteers for service in Mexico obtained
NNR 70.343 account of traders, emigrants, and soldiers setting out for Santa Fe, Oregon, and California
NNR 70.344 mustering of the New York regiment destined for California, complaints of favoritism to Col. John D. Stevenson
NNR 70.352 Princeton, steamer, detached for Pensacola
NNR 70.352 Gen. Zachary Taylor still detained for want of transports, roads impassable
NNR 70.352 report of the scout of Capt. Samuel Hamilton Walker's Rangers towards Monterey
NNR 70.352 Mexican cotton annihilated, corn to be saved
NNR 70.352 business of supplying the forces in Mexico
NNR 70.352 mounted riflemen and Mormon infantry for California
NNR 70.368 Nashville "Union's"correspondence on the campaign, move toward Monterey anticipated
NNR 70.368 wagons purchased and contracted for in Atlantic states
NNR 70.368 expenses of the war
NNR 70.368 account of actions of Capt. Robert Christie Buchanan in the Battle of Resaca de la Palma
NNR 70.368 the mortally wounded in the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma
NNR 70.371 volunteers return to New Orleans
NNR 70.372 general order discharging volunteers from Louisiana, Saint Louis, and Alabama
NNR 70.372 remarks of New Orleans papers on discharge of volunteers
NNR 70.372 notice of Marylanders at Palo Alto
NNR 70.372 incident of the boxing Irishman
NNR 70.372 death of a veteran of Napoleon's wars
NNR 70.372-70.373 Mexican perfidy
NNR 70.373 presents for valiant subalterns
NNR 70.373 notice of the departure of Maj. E. Kirby for the war
NNR 70.373 account of the heroine of Fort Brown
NNR 70.384 the Mormon infantry at Fort Leavenworth
NNR 70.385 rumor of Mexican request that Great Britain and France mediate the end of the war with the United States
NNR 70.385 comments on the offer to negotiate for peace
NNR 70.386 promotions and appointments for distinguished services in the campaign
NNR 70.386 Gen. Gains's court of inquiry; Capt. Thornton acquitted
NNR 70.386 Capt. Seth Barton Thornton's defense in the court-martial on charges preferred against him for loss of his squadron of dragoons
NNR 70.386 account of the Kentucky mounted regiment
NNR 70.386 distrust of the members of the California expedition of the government's promises
NNR 70.387 baggage wagons being made for the Army
NNR 70.400 dissatisfactions of disbanded Alabama and Louisiana volunteers
NNR 70.400 embarrassment of Gen. Zachary Taylor and of the secretary of war over volunteers, troops reach the Rio Grande
NNR 70.400 supplies urged forward to enable advance, wagons, rations en route
NNR 70.400 mules at last contracted for in Mexico
NNR 70.400 Texas Rangers from San Antonio de Bexar cross the Rio Grande, pass through Mier and reach Camargo
NNR 70.400 contracts for mules being obtained, notwithstanding the inadequacy of the wagon train, Gen. Zachary Taylor orders his forces on to Camargo
NNR 70.400 Yellow fever on board American squadron in Vera Cruz
NNR 70.400 additional regiment of volunteers for Santa Fe organized, artillery expected
NNR 70.400 Mormon volunteers reach Fort Leavenworth
NNR 70.401 decree relative to the powers of the extraordinary Congress in Mexico
NNR 70.401 Indian threat to Chihuahua, approach of the vanguard of the American Army
NNR 70.401 movements of Mexican troops for San Luis Potosi
NNR 70.401 Mexican arrangements to use the interior resources of Mexico to sustain the war with the United States
NNR 70.401 departure of Mexican troops from the capital
NNR 70.401 assassinations by the insurgents of Guadalajara, dismay over the deplorable state of Mexico
NNR 70.401 American troops reported leaving Camargo for Monterey
NNR 70.401 Gen. Nicolas Bravo assumes the presidency of Mexico, resignation of the ministers
NNR 70.401 Mexican Army assembles at San Luis Potosi
NNR 70.401 "pronunciamento"in favor of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna at Veracruz, he embarks from Cuba
NNR 70.401 steamer Princeton dispatched express for Pensacola
NNR 70.401 progress of the messenger bearing President James Knox Polk's overtures to Mexico
NNR 70.401 John Slidell's mission to Cuba
NNR 70.401 Mexican decree authorizes privateers
NNR 70.401-70.402 description of Camargo
NNR 70.402 description of Monterey and Caiderete
NNR 70.402 difficulty over supplying Gen. Steven Watts Kearny's expedition to Santa Fe, reports of alarm in New Mexico
NNR 70.402 engineer corps at West Point being readied for Mexico
NNR 70.402 disorder among the New York troops gathered for the California expedition
NNR 70.402-70.403 letter from A. Moses of the Ohio regiment
NNR 70.403 account of mosquitoes on the Rio Grande
NNR 70.403 Gen. John Ellis Wool's force, supplies, wagons
NNR 70.403 Col. Churchill departs New Orleans for Texas
NNR 70.403 complaint about the manner of buying and treating wagons for the Army
NNR 70.406-70.408 proceedings and decision of the court of inquiry on Gen. Edmund Pendleton Gaines' efforts to raise volunteers
NNR 70.416 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny arrives at Santa Fe, friendly reception
NNR 70.416 unsuccessful attack on Alvarado
NNR 70.416 chartering of ships for the California expedition, charges of malfeasance by Thomas Jefferson Sutherland against Col. John D. Stevenson in connection with outfitting the California expedition
NNR 70.416 Gen. Zachary Taylor leaves Matamoros for Camargo
NNR 70.416 order barring spirituous liquors from Matamoros
NNR 70.416 probability of reaching Monterey in September
NNR 70.416 Col. Archibald Yell's letter about the lack of equipment for Arkansas volunteers
NNR 71.001 indications of government aiding to restore Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna to power, contradiction of the "Union"notwithstanding, he is allowed to pass the blockade, enters Veracruz, assumes command and the revolution progresses, Mariano Paredes y Arillaga overthrown and imprisoned by Gen. Jose Mariano de Salas, who aids Santa Anna to power
NNR 71.001 rumor of annexation of California
NNR 71.001-71.002 Capt. John Rogers Vinton takes Mier
NNR 71.002 attempt on Alvarado
NNR 71.002 effect of Gen. Zachary Taylor's temperance orders at Matamoros
NNR 71. 002 expedition of the Rangers to the interior
NNR 71.002 Gen. Zachary Taylor proceeds to Camargo, grand review
NNR 71.002 Gen. William
Jenkins Worth's division prepares to move on Monterey
NNR 71. 002 position and movement of the several corps
NNR 71.016 complaints from volunteers at Matamoros about high prices for provisions
NNR 71.016 junta at Santa Barbara declares independence of Mexico, Gen. Castro declares martial law
NNR 71.016 Sonoma occupied by Col. John Charles Fremont
NNR 71.016 Com. John Drake
Sloat takes Monterey
NNR 71.016 Capt. John Berrien Montgomery in the Portsmouth takes Yerba
Buena
NNR 71.016 transport wagons contracted for the Army
NNR 71.017 dispatches for Mexico
NNR 71.020 difficulties attending the California expedition preparing at New York
NNR 71.020 reasons why the "peace with Mexico"now anticipated may prove delusive
NNR 71.020 Gen. Zachary Taylor delayed for want of means of transport, large bodies of volunteers join him
NNR 71.020 progress of expedition
against Santa Fe
NNR 71.020 Col. William Selby Harney's expedition against Monclova
NNR 71.020 operations in the Pacific
NNR 71.021 Lt. James Duncan's report on the battles of 8th and 9th May
NNR 71.021-71.022 the affair of the Baltimore battalion "and their Ohio commander"
NNR 71.022 letters detailing march from Matamoros to Camargo, difficulties encountered, progress impeded, incidents, movements, and position, advance under Gen. William Jenkins Worth proceeds to Cerralvo
NNR 71.022 hot weather, Army concentrated at Camargo, advances made towards Monterey, want of wagons
NNR 71.022 confusion over disbanding of the six months' volunteers
NNR 71.022 letter from young Stettinius of the Baltimore volunteers about their position in Mexico
NNR 71.022 letter about the concentration of the Army at Camargo preparatory to a movement upon Monterey
NNR 71.022 measles among the volunteers from the west [disease]
NNR 71.022 rowdyism among the volunteers from Baltimore and the District
NNR 71.022-71.023 letter from Point Isabel about various activities and movements
NNR 71.023 sickness, inactivity for want of wagons
NNR 71.023 discharges from the Baltimore battalion for illness, remainder ordered to join Gen. Zachary Taylor at Camargo
NNR 71.023 mosquitoes and ants at Camargo
NNR 71.023 flare up of insubordination among the Illinois volunteers
NNR 71.023 letter from an Ohio volunteer near Burita
NNR 71.024 complaint of a Pennsylvania volunteer about poor arrangements for supplies
NNR 71.025-71.027 account of the bombardment of Fort Brown
NNR 71.034 account of the Alvarado affair
NNR 71.035 the Cumberland frigate on a reef
NNR 71.035 the brig Truxton lost
NNR 71.036 letter describing the Alvarado affair
NNR 71.038 Gen. Zachary Taylor, having been detained from 10th May to 1st Sept. for want of material of transport, at length succeeds in purchasing 1,500 mules from Mexicans, loads with provisions and munitions, reviews his forces, advances towards Monterey
NNR 71.038 disposition of forces
NNR 71.038 management of mules
NNR 71.038 march of Ohio volunteers from Matamoros to Camargo
NNR 71.038 Col. William Selby Harney's expedition
NNR 71.038 Presidio occupied by "adventurers"
NNR 71.038 Mexican forces at Monterey, Gen. William Jenkins Worth reaches Saltillo
NNR 71.038 fatal explosion aboard the steamboat Enterprise, list of killed and wounded in the explosion
NNR 71.039 advance of Gen. John Ellis Wool's division
NNR 71.039 Col. William Selby Harney's expedition
NNR 71.039 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's division leaves Fort Leavenworth for Santa Fe, his force, account of parties on the route
NNR 71.039 difficulties obstruct New York California expedition
NNR 71.039-71.040 comments of the Mobile "Register and Journal"on the disbanded volunteers
NNR 71.040 article on payment of the disbanded Louisiana volunteers
NNR 71.040 riot among Georgia volunteers near Burita
NNR 71.040 poor health among volunteers on the Rio Grande
NNR 71.040 illness among the Illinois volunteers
NNR 71.048 difficulties with supplies for the Army of the West, arrangement of forces, depredations of Indians
NNR 71.048 progress of President James Knox Polk's "dispatches"proposing negotiations
NNR 71.049 mediation between the United States and Mexico proposed by Great Britain
NNR 71.049 incident of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's passing the blockade, his reception at Veracruz
NNR 71.049 doubts of reception by the Mexicans of an American minister unless forces are withdrawn, remarks of the "Union"
71.049 prospect of continuance of the war
71.049 "Union"impatient at Gen. Zachary Taylor's delay
NNR 71.050 debates in British Parliament, mediation explicitly offered
NNR 71.051 letter on the capture of John Pine Bankhead and the Truxton
NNR 71.051-71.052 loss of the Truxton on the breakers off Tuxpan
NNR 71.052 Monterey (Pacific) surrenders
NNR 71.053 Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's passport
NNR 71.054 "Union"repeats that the country is impatient for Gen. Zachary Taylor to "act,"that he has mules now to enable him to advance, "the plan of the campaign has been concocted in a decisive spirit, we ought not to doubt,"&c. , announces advance of the Army and that Monterey is probably taken
NNR 71.055 letter from officer at Camargo as to future prosecution of the war
NNR 71.055 a night in Matamoros, a false alarm, dead bodies, pleasures of soldiering, want of wagons and munitions, letter describing state of affairs, Gen. William Jenkins Worth at Cerralvo, riot on the Rio Grande
NNR 71.055 Riot on the Rio Grande
NNR 71.056 the march from Matamoros to Camargo, letter from "the sergeant"
NNR 71.056 operation of the Army of the Center, preparations to advance on Chihuahua, San Antonio de Bexar occupied
NNR 71.056-71.057 Army
of the West, additional regiments mustered into service, paid, and discharged
NNR 71.057 departure of Maj. A. D. Stuart to pay the troops at Fort Leavenworth
NNR 71.057 dismissal of the regiment of infantry called for by the requisition of the governor of Missouri
NNR 71.057 letter from a volunteer at Bent's Fort, difficulties with provisions
NNR 71.057 disappointment to a volunteer of courage, consistency, and indomitable perseverance
NNR 71.057 New York California expedition delayed
NNR 71.057 Col. Jonathan D. Stevenson's effects seized, difficulties later resolved
NNR 71.057-71.058 letter from an officer at Matamoros
NNR 71.058 comment on Gens. Pedro Ampudia and Mariano Arista
NNR 71.058-71.060 Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's proclamation from Veracruz on a plan for regeneration of the republic
NNR 71.065 arrest and execution of Mexican spies at Camargo, attack on Americans between Camargo and Matamoros
NNR 71.065 suspension of building of wagons for the Army
NNR 71.065 Mexican show of
resistance
71.065 Gen. William Jenkins Worth's division approaches Cerralvo
71.065 Gen. Zachary Taylor's forced march to join Gen. William Jenkins Worth
71.065 Mexican proclamation interdicting trading with or supplying the invaders under penalty of treason
71.065 Gen. Zachary Taylor's orders respecting trade and individuals locating at Camargo
71.065 Col. Clark shot, Mexicans disarmed at Matamoros
71.065 sickness on the Rio Grande
NNR 71.066 curiosity respecting reply received by government from Mexican government, speculation thereon, hopes of a peace diminished, the "Union"for going to war in earnest, another campaign required
NNR 71.066 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny marching for Santa Fe
NNR 71.066 condition of the Mormon infantry
NNR 71.066 prizes taken by Mexican privateer
NNR 71.066 Infantry assembled at Ft. Leavenworth
NNR 71.067 intelligence from John Charles Fremont, &c.
NNR 71.067 Gen. John Ellis
Wool nearly ready to advance on Chihuahua
71.067 Col. William Selby Harney returns from his excursion, is arrested
NNR 71.067 arrival at New Orleans of sick and discharged volunteers from the Rio Grande
NNR 71.067 Gen. Zachary Taylor concentrating at Cerralvo
NNR 71.067 Col. Hay's marching
NNR 71.067 hospitals crowded at Camargo and Matamoros
NNR 71.067 Gen. Robert Patterson in command from Camargo to the mouth of the Rio Grande
NNR 71.067 Gen. Pedro Ampudia reinforces Monterey
NNR 71.067 doubts expressed by the "Union"as to the account of "desertions"
NNR 71.067 notice by Col. Samuel Hamilton Walker about desertions
NNR 71.067-71.068 letter relative to the campaigns, munitions, supplies, &c.
NNR 71.068 departure of the New York California expedition
NNR 71.080 Santa Fe taken by Gen. Stephen Watts Kearney
NNR 71.081 advance on Monterey
NNR 71.081 letter anticipates battle at Monterey
NNR 71.081 Kentucky regiment encamped at Lavaca
NNR 71.082 settling accounts with volunteer officers: Capt. G. H. Tobin's correspondence with Jonathan M. McCalla
NNR 71.083 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's proclamation at Santa Fe to the inhabitants of New Mexico
NNR 71.086-71.087 proclamation issued by Gen. Zachary Taylor on crossing the Rio Grande, announcing the course to be pursued toward Mexicans [incomplete]
NNR 71.087 announcement of the "Union"that the effort to negotiate a peace is to be abandoned and more coercive measures pursued, comments of the "Intelligencer"thereon
NNR 71.087 departure of Gen. Thomas Sidney Jesup to take personal command of the quartermaster's department
71.087-71.088 proclamation issued by Com. John Drake Sloat on taking ports on the Pacific
71.088 particulars of the tragic affair of the Georgia volunteers at Camp Belknap
NNR 71.088-71.089 condition of the volunteers on the Rio Grande
71.089 operations of Gen. John Ellis Wool's division
NNR 71.090-71.092 diary of an officer of the Army of the West to Santa Fe
NNR 71.096 rumor of design to call out volunteers to assail Veracruz, amount of forces now in field operating against Mexico
NNR 71.100 review of the progress of the campaign
NNR 71.100-71.101 Monterey attacked, defended for three days, surrenders to Gen. Zachary Taylor, armistice concluded, incidents
NNR 71.101 official dispatches announced by the "Union"on the battle of the 22d of Sept.
NNR 71.102 report on the battles of the 23rd Sept. and 25th Sept. , correspondence and articles of capitulation of Monterey INCOMPLETE
NNR 71.103-71.104 letters from the Army detailing approach to Monterey, storming of Bishop's Palace
NNR 71.105 adjustments in territory of the United States and other North American powers as a result of the conquest of California and New Mexico, and the Oregon treaty
NNR 71.112 Juan Nepomuceno Almonte appointed president of Mexico ad interim, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna assumes control of armies
NNR 71.112 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny operating from Santa Fe
NNR 71.112 prize brig Naiad at New Orleans
NNR 71.113 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna assumes the military and declines civil supremacy, Gen. Jose Mariano Salas defers determining whether to receive a minister from United States until Congress, which alone has power in the premises, shall assemble
NNR 71.114 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's reply to the tender of supreme executive authority, his arrival and reception at the capital, levy of men for the Mexican Army, articles relative to funds for the war
NNR 71.114-71.115 notice of groups of recruits for the war in Mexico
NNR 71.115 force of the several divisions of the Army employed against Mexico
NNR 71.115 opinions stated relative to Gen. Zachary Taylor's movements, "plan of prosecuting the war,"government said to be dissatisfied with Taylor for delaying so long at Matamoros and to have ordered him on to San Luis Potosi, &c. , letters detailing the operations against and surrender of Monterey
NNR 71.117 notice of the corps of sappers and miners on their way to Mexico
NNR 71.117 design on Veracruz contemplated
NNR 71.117 deaths in hospital at Matamoras, rumors
NNR 71.117 "progress of the war,""plan of invasion to be changed,"rumors at Washington that Gen. Zachary Taylor is to be superseded in command, inquiries as to Gen. Winfield Scott
NNR 71.117 letter detailing the negotiations for surrender of Monterey
NNR 71.118 order of Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny for an expedition from Santa Fe, speculations on operations in New Mexico and California
NNR 71.118 report of affairs at Forth Leavenworth
NNR 71.118-71.119 march
and route of Illinois volunteers through Texas
71.119 notice of volunteers preparing to leave Fort Leavenworth for
the west
NNR 71.119-71.120 accounts of disease among the Tennessee volunteers
NNR 71.120 sick Tennessee volunteers retiring
NNR 71.120 Col. Samuel Ryan Curtis' letter about the health of troops at Matamoros
NNR 71.120-71.121 notices of officers and men
NNR 71.121 account of a Delaware hero
NNR 71.122 sundry additional
incidents in the battles on the Rio Grande
NNR 71.122-3 Col.
Humphrey Marshall's Kentucky regiment of volunteers; lack of supplies
and pay for the Kentucky volunteers, extensive illness
NNR 71.123 troops embark for Mexico
NNR 71.123 sickness of Illinois volunteers, troops dispatched from Norfolk for Point Isabel and Tampico, word of the position of Col. John Charles Fremont
NNR 71.123 speculations about forces gathered to oppose the Army of the West
NNR 71.123 French brig captured while trying to force the blockade at Tampico
NNR 71.128 requisition for additional regiments of volunteers, "mum"as to future operations, "mental food for the Army"
NNR 71.128 comments on the inability of Secretary of the Treasury Robert John Walker to negotiate a loan with the banks, speculation on his future course
NNR 71.129 Gen. John Ellis Wool's division marching for Chihuahua
NNR 71.129 incidents and results of the recent battles
NNR 71.129 Gen. Zachary Taylor orders up additional forces to Monterey: Kentucky and Tennessee mounted regiments marching for Chihuahua
NNR 71.129 Gen. Zachary Taylor's
general order No. 6, issued 29th Sept. at Camargo, respecting Mexican
outlaws, provocations inducing the measure
NNR 71.129 Tennessee and Kentucky regiments in Army of the Center under Gen. Wool marching to Chihuahua
NNR 71.129 infantry marching for Camargo
NNR 71.129-130 George Wilkins Kendall's letter giving interesting details
NNR 71.130 Gen. Zachary Taylor's general order No. 115 directing the march from Cerralvo to Monterey
NNR 71.130-71.131 "march of the second division of the select six thousand"
NNR 71.131 Gen. Pedro Ampudia's address to his "companions in arms"prior to attack on Monterey
NNR 71.132 description of the castle of San Juan de Ulloa
NNR 71.133 Sir George Francis Seymour, in the Collingwood, arrives in California
NNR 71.133 California ports taken by Com. John Drake Sloat
NNR 71.133 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna inspires new vigor amongst the Mexicans, assembles a formidable force at San Luis Potosi, orders Monterey and Saltillo to be evacuated before the attack, but not in time to reach before the former was besieged
NNR 71.133 operations of the squadron in the Pacific
NNR 71.133 loss of schooner Bonita
NNR 71.133-134 capture of the
Mexican brig of war Malek Adhel in the port of Mazatlan;
Monterey and San Francisco and "Alto California"taken by Com. John
Drake Sloat [see also: 71.186, 71.226]
NNR 71.134 Com. Robert Field Stockton arrives in the Congress and Sir George Francis Seymour in the Collingwood, eighty-gun ship, civilities; Com. John Drake Sloat organizes a corps of dragoons and sails for Mazatlan, leaving Com. Robert Field Stockton in command, who issues a proclamation of blockade, operations of squadron
NNR 71.134 Commodore Sloat arrives at Havana
NNR 71.134 Gen. Jose Castro employed to revolutionize California
NNR 71.138-140, 157-159, 174-175 Lt. William Helmsley Emory's journal of Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's march to Santa Fe
NNR 71.140 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's proclamation organizing territorial government in New Mexico
NNR 71.144 Gen. Pedro Ampudia's evacuation of Monterey, occupation by American forces
NNR 71.144 troops to leave Fort Moultrie for Mexico
NNR 71.144 Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny's excursion south and return to Santa Fe
NNR 71.144 Col. Canales reported at San Fernando
NNR 71.144 troops embark at New York for Mexico
70.337 Aug 1, 1846 Gen. Mariano Paredes y Arillaga requests permission, which is granted, to place himself in command of the Army in the North, arrangements with regard to other Mexican commanders
Paredes Elected President. Shortly after the meeting of the Mexican congress, that body proceeded to organize the executive power, by a decree that it should be deposited provisionally in a magistrate elected by a plurality of the votes of congress, and that a vice president should be elected at the same time to act in the absence of the president. This decree was passed on the 10th of June, and on the 12th the election was help. Gen. Paredes was elected president, receiving 58 out of 83 votes. Ben. Bravo received 13 votes, and Gen. Herrera 7 votes. Gen. Bravo was then elected vice president, receiving 48 out of 82 votes. The highest opposing candidate was D. Luis G. Cuevas, who received 17 votes.
Gen. Paredes took the oaths of office on the 13th as provisional president, and at the same time pronounced another discourse, in the most notable passage of which he expresses his confidence that congress will grant all the supplies and make every effort necessary to defend the national cause. He reviews at length the wrongs which Mexico has endured at the hands of the United States, and concludes with desiring permission to assume of Senor Bustamente, who was ill, Dr. D. Louis Gonzaga Gordoa presided over congress. He replied to the president in substance, that every question of domestic policy shrunk into insignificance compared with the invasion of the country on the Rio Bravo; that the Mexican who should think of aught else than the injustice and treachery with which their soild was trampled, and the necessity of avenging their outraged honor, had no right to claim a share in their patriotic devotion.
On the 18th permission was granted to Paredes to place himself at the head of troops, and proceed to join the army of the North. Gonzalez Arevalo was to leave the capital on the 19th in command of the advance of the forces of Paredes. Gen. Mejia was in the actual command of the army of the North, Arista having been ordered to Mexico, and Ampudia to remain at San Luis Potosi. [A paper of the 27th ult. says that Gen. Arevalo, instead of proceeding to the frontier, had marched for Guadalajara to put down the insurrection.]
Gen. Bravo left Vera Cruz for the city of Mexico on the 24th, to discharge
the functions of president in the absence of Paredes.
[RCG]
70.337-338 Aug 1, 1846 consideration by the Mexican Congress of a declaration of war against the United States
Declaration of War Proposed. The committee of congress upon foreign relations and upon war made a joint report upon the 16th upon that part of the message of Paredes relating to the United States. The reports recommends the passage of a bill declaring Mexico to be in a state of war with the United States. We do not find that the bill had actually been passed. Bocanegra and Valencia were among the members of this committee. After a short report upon the circumstances of the case, the committee proposed the following:
Project DE LA Loi. The extraordinary national congress of the Mexican republic considering:
That the republic of the United States of America, with notorious violation of all right, has instigated and protected openly and perseveringly the insurrection of the colonists of Texas against the nation which had admitted them upon its territory and generously shielded them with the protection of its laws:
That is has incorporated the same territory of Texas into in union by an act of its congress, notwithstanding it has always belonged by undisputed right to the Mexican nation, has been recognized as such by the United States themselves, as appears by the boundary treaties of 1832 and 1835:
That is has not maintained the solemn assurances and reservations in regard to the rights of the Mexican republic, which by means of its agents it had made conformity with whose treaties:
That is has also invaded the department of Tamaulipas, introducing an army upon the left bank of the Rio Bravo, giving occasion and origin to the battles of the 8th and 9th of May of the present year:
That in time of profound peace, and during established relations of amity, between the two countries, it has invaded by land and sea that territories of the Cali:
That it has blockaded the ports of Matamoros, Vera Cruz, and Tampico of Tamaulipas, opening its fire upon the defenses of the latter:
That it has authorized a levy of troops against Mexico:
That it has declared war against the republic under the pretext that the said states had been invaded, when in fact they made the invasion:
And lastly, considering that the nationality of the Mexicans is seriously
compromised by the power and the spirit of usurpation, flagrantly
manifested by the neighboring nation of the United States.
[RCG]
70.341-342 Aug 1, 1846 letter from "The Corporal"with the Army of Occupation at Matamoros
"THE CORPORAL,"whose exceedingly lively and well written articles, communicated to the New Orleans Bee, keep the public well posted up as to the affairs on the Rio Grande, writes from
Matamoros, July 4th, 1846
I was in conversation with Mr. De Grey, who has returned here from Chihuahua, near two hours this morning. He says that he left San Antonio with others about two months ago with good on a trading expedition to Chihuahua, and proceeded on the route unmolested until he had reached Santa Clova, where they were stopped by the guard stationed on the river and their goods taken from them, in the name of the revenue laws of Mexico. Mr. De G. then left his party and traveled down the east bank of the Rio Grande, for a few days, when he crossed over and went to Saltillo, where he was advised of the bloody battle of the 9th, by its citizens, who stated to him that they would never go against the Americans again, and that it was a generally expressed thing at every place they had heard of. He says he was stopped by Arista, who was at his rancho, near Monterey, for two days, and although the general had quit the Mexican army forever, he still though it his duty to detain and would likely have kept him had he not managed to escape and get into Monterey. This place he found dull and "heavy"and not one Mexican soldier in it--the people damning Paredes and the government, saying the soldiers had eat them out of every thing and then left them for the Americans to prey upon, whom they were looking for with much anxiety. They told him at this place that there was much eagerness displayed by the inhabitants of Caohuila and the upper part of Tamaulipas before the news of the fight reached them, but all operations in military affairs ceased after it, and patriotism was sunk. The remnant of the army--not 500--have gone to Lenares, and were in a pitiful condition, and lessening the number daily by desertion. They had recruited a little whilst there, and fortified several points, but the citizens said it was labor thrown away. He heard that 600 men volunteered at Monclova, and were "eager for the fray;"but the startling news from the Rio Grande gave them a lick back; they mutinied, and 500 of them left sans ceremony. They had been made to believe that our pockets were lined with gold. (How they would have been so sucked had they got into the pockets of some folks I wot of.) He saw General Cannales near Reynosa, who told him that he commanded but 125 men at the time. Carabajal, his cher ami, gave De Grey, a passport to protect him from the band.
I am happy to inform you that the present swell in the river has had the good effect of clearing a channel at the mouth, by washing away the sand, and leaving it open for vessels of 5 or 6 feet water. The vessels at the mouth have gone out and several steamers have come in laden with military stores.
Several rows have occurred in this place during the last few days, which have compelled General Taylor to resume strict measures again. Several Mexicans have been killed and others wounded. Those of our men who engage in these broils are bad men--who come to town and remain here about during the day, in connection with some rangers of similar character, but I am proud to say, for the honor of the service, they are few in number.
There are, and have been for ten days, a set of mountebanks here performing
on the tight rope and cutting "fantastic tricks before high heaven.
About half an hour before the commencement of their performances
they mount each a mustang, and proceeded by a base drum and charionets,
parade through the principle streets--dressed in their performing
costumes, and followed by all the juveniles of the town. They are
natives, and style themselves, "Compania del Norte. I have not
had the courage to visit them.
[RCG]
70.342 Aug 1, 1846 visit of British naval officers to Gen. Zachary Taylor
"Curiosity runs high"to know the object of a visit of two British naval officers to General Taylor, who arrived here in a vessel of war from Tampico. Communication being cut off, they sent their dispatches by mail to their consul at Matamoros, to be laid by him before the consul general. Nous verrons.
Appearances indicate a move of the army into the interior as soon as the waters subside.
Report says Gen. Paredes has sent a proclamation to the people of
Matamoros, calling upon them to treat our regulars with every kindness
and consideration, because of the unparalleled kindness and
attention to the wounded, as well as prisoners and citizens.
He takes occasion to score the Texans, &c. If this be true, it
argues more favorable than otherwise.
[RCG]
70.343 August 1, 1846, Court of Inquiry, charges against General Gaines, Library for the Army of Occupation, Volunteers
The Court of Inquiry ordered to assemble at Fortress Monroe, (Old Point), for the investigation of the charges against General Gaines, met on the 21st, and organized for the transaction of business. - The Court sat with closed doors of course. All the members had not arrived. Gen. Gaines was, upon his arrival at Fortress Monroe, received by Col. Walbach, commandant, and saluted with 13 guns, together with the honors due to his high rank.
A LIBRARY FOR THE ARMY OF OCCUPATION. - Presuming, probably, that the army would have leisure for study, the following publishers in New York have contributed a very excellent library for the army on the Rio Grande: - Harper & Brothers; Burgess, Stringer & Co.; Wiley & Putnam; Saxton & Miles; Mark H. Newman; W. Taylor & Co.; J. & G.A. Langley; Baker & Seribner; M.W. Dodd; Darius Mead; J.S. Redfield; Fowler & Wells; C.S. Francis & Co.; Wood & Son, and Stanford & Swords. The idea was suggested by the Rev. Mr. Marshall, of Vicksburgh, Miss., at present in New York on a visit.
The government is buying mules in Tennessee, at $100 apiece.
Lieut. DEAS, who, it was reported at the time, had been attracted by some Mexican damsel, on the banks of the Rio Grande, opposite Fort Brown, but who in reality had swam the river in search of the lamented Col. Cross, and was captured by the enemy, has been restored to his company.
DESERTERS. - The two Sergeants who deserted from Capt. Deas's company of Alabama volunteers on the Rio Grande, were arrested in Mobile, and were about to be sent back to be tried by a military court, when a writ of habeas corpus was taken out for their detention, and the examination of their case before a civil court. After hearing the case, the judge decided that they should be returned to the camp for trial by court martial. From this decision an appeal was taken to the court of appeals, where the matter now lies
DEATH OF C. J. McNULTY. - Capt. Hicks, of the New Era, arrived yesterday from New Orleans, reports the death of C. J. McNulty, on his way to the seat of war. He died just below Memphis. He was a private in the Knox county volunteers, and formerly well known as the clerk of the house of representatives.
GEORGIA VOLUNTEERS. - Two men were drowned - Farrar and McNier - in the Alabama river, while on their way to Mobile. They jumped overboard from the steamer in a fright.
The Mobile papers gives the particulars of an affair, on the wharf in that city, connected with a corps of volunteers from Georgia. Some of the men undertook to torment some negroes fishing at the wharf. Two were knocked into the river and one of them drowned. Excitement followed, and the troops were for hurrying off the boat on which they were embarked - but the mayor ordered their detention, and three men were arrested and taken before the mayor. Two were, after examination, discharged, and the third sent to prison to answer for his crime.
SOUTH CAROLINA VOLUNTEERS. - The secretary of war has informed the governor of S. Carolina that there is no necessity at present for calling the regiment of that state into service.
EXPEDITION AGAINST CHIHUAHUA. - The company of U. States dragoons that have for some time been at Austin, Texas, left there on the 16th June, for San Antonio.
Capt. R. M. Snell, of the Texan volunteers, has arrived at Galveston for the purpose of raising three or four companies of foot, for what service is not stated.
THE
SANTA FE EXPEDITION. - Col. Price's regiment. A letter from Lexington,
Mo., dated the 2d, says - "Col. Price has been informed by Col. Kearney,
that his regiment will be received, provided he raises eight hundred infantry
- more cavalry not being wanted in the expedition. Col. Price, it
is said, objects to this arrangement, and a doubt exists whether he will
be able to succeed in raising the number of men. There can be no doubt
that Col. Kearney has more mounted men with him than is necessary for the
expedition, and we are surprised at the opposition which Col. Price makes,
to the new service with which Col. Kearney desires to invest him.
He ought not to hesitate about obeying Col. Kearney's requisition, more
especially as it may conduce to the safety of the expedition, and to the
promptness with which his men may be brought into the field.
[GLP]
70.343 Aug 1, 1846 arrival of the first, second, and third regiments of Ohio volunteers at New Orleans
Ohio Volunteers. The first regiment of Ohio volunteers, commanded by Col. Mitchell, and Lieut. Col. Weller, arrived at New Orleans on the 8th of July, by steamers New World and Carolina, from Cincinnati, and encamped at the battle ground blow the barracks.
The 3rd regiment, under the command of Col. S. R. Curtis, Lieut. Col. McCook, and Adj. Eaton, arrived on the 9th.
Two steamboats arrived at New Orleans on the 16th with the 2d regiment.
[RCG]
70.343 Aug 1, 1846 arrival of five companies of Indiana volunteers at New Orleans
Indiana Volunteers. A steamboat arrived at N. Orleans on the
16th of July, with five companies of the 2d regiment of the Indiana
volunteers.
[RCG]
New York Volunteers. We learn that the full complement of seven
regiments of volunteers required from this state, for service in the
war against Mexico, has already been obtained, and all the line officers
commissioned. It is expected that the field officers will also
receive their commissions in the course of twelve or fourteen days,
when the whole force will be complete, awaiting orders from the war department.
An excess, nearly sufficient for another regiment, we understand,
has been reported to the adjutant general's office.
[RCG]
70.343 Aug 1, 1846 account of traders, emigrants, and soldiers setting out for Santa Fe, Oregon, and California
Trade to Sante Fe, California, and Oregon.
Dr. J. Gregg, the author of "Commerce of the Prairies,"in a letter to the editors of the Boonslick (Missouri) Times, gives the following important statements.
Independence, June 30th, 1846.
The traders having left this place in detached parties, as each proprietor finished his preliminary arrangements and got his goods and chattles, freight and cattle ready for starting, it is difficult to form a correct estimate of their numbers or quantity, unless one had taken the pains of stationing himself upon the borders at the opening of the navigation, in the spring, and counted them when passing. I have, however, by minute and frequent inquiries ascertained that there are "en masse"upon the Santa Fe trail, 216 wagons.
Still behind to start during the summer, principally belonging to Mexicans, say, Small carriages, buggies, &c., 150 " 50" 416
--having on board, as near as I can estimate it, an amount of merchandise, costing a fraction over one million of dollars, which in more than treble that of any previous season.
These vehicles, of various sorts, are accompanied by people as various--compromising traders and wagoners, loungers, on and connoisseur travelers, loafers and loungers, amounting to about one thousand men.
The Oregon and California emigration, (much the larger part of which is for the latter country,) amounts to , men, women, and children, about two thousand persons, and in all probability, I think, at least 400 wagons of all descriptions.
Then, there is our army, the number of which is quite uncertain, although, including dragoons and volunteers, infantry, and cavalry, it will, from present indications, amount to about three thousand men accompanied by two hundred and fifty wagons.
Thus, we have about six thousand souls, with one thousand wagons, moving westward, across the great prairies, during the present summer, from this part of our frontier, How many may put off from other portions of our western border, I know no more than you; but report says that a large number of troops will leave Arkansas next month for our southwestern frontier and Mexico.
Your Friend,
Josiah Gregg.
[RCG]
70.344 Aug 1, 1846 mustering of the New York regiment destined for California, complaints of favoritism to Col. John D. Stevenson
The expedition to the Pacific. -- The regiment under the command of Col. Stenvenson, destined for California, was mustered and inspected at the New York arsenal yard on the 21st ult. It is said they intend to encamp on Bedloe's Island, and pass the time previous to their departure in active drill.
The Mechanics' Journal says. -- "Very just complaints are made
of the favoritism of the administration in allowing John D. Stevenson
to raise a regiment for immediate service, while volunteers are enrolled
in New York and waiting to be ordered into survive, waiting without
pay, and even without any provision for their maintenance. A
son of Mr. Marcy is to be paymaster of this regiment, for the administration
has long since assumed the right of appointing the officers of the
militia, though in direct defiance of the constitution, which reserves
that right to the states respectively. Sir Robert Peel, with
the immense patronage in his power, made it a rule never to appoint
a relative to office. With all the admiration which this administration
exhibits for British examples, this is a precedent which there appears
no disposition to follow.
[RCG]
70.352 August 1, 1846, Steamer Princeton detached for Pensacola
THE
PRINCETON, U.S. STEAMER, which has been exceedingly useful in maintaining
the blockade of Vera Cruz, performing what no other vessel in the navy
was as capable of doing, has suddenly been detached by Commodore CONNER,
in order to bring despatches, with which she arrived at Pensacola, on the
20th , in five days from Vera Cruz. The despatches are
said to be from our Pacific squadron. Of their purport nothing has
transpired.
[GLP]
70.352 August 1, 1846, ARMY OF OCCUPATION
Our latest dates from the Rio Grande left the army still waiting for means of transportation and for supplies to enable them to progress. Gen. Taylor is now encamped with four regiments, (Colonels Walton's, Davie's, Dankin's and Mark's,) with the Alabamians, under Capt. Desha, at Buena Vista, on the borders of a lake, seventeen miles northwest of Matamoros. The health of the volunteers here, with Gen. Taylor, had much improved, owing to the fine air they enjoyed and splendid encamping grounds they occupied.
The roads were perfectly impassable for wheeled vehicles, owing to the swampy soil, occasioned by the immense falls of rain which had recently taken place. - The steamer Mercer arrived at the mouth of the Rio Grande, all safe, on the 17 th inst. There were no signs of Mexican soldiery in the vicinity of Camargo.
Capt. Walker had returned from his expedition to Monterey, and delivered a report which is said to be an exceedingly interesting one of the state of the country through which he passed, halting places, &c. &c. - There is no probability of an opposition being made to the advance of the American troops between Camargo and Monterey, and from what could be collected, the Mexican force concentrated at the latter point, is extremely insignificant. Nothing regarding the reported approach of Paredes, with the army of reserve, of an authentic nature has been ascertained at headquarters, although ??? are out in some numbers for that purpose. Everything, however, seems to announce that the possession of Monterey will be fiercely disputed, as it is by nature and art, one of the most powerful strongholds in Mexico. The inhabitants and soldiers are daily employed in improving its defences.
Our informant states that it was reported by the Rangers that they had penetrated to the precipitous cliffs that overhang Monterey, when a trooper, a very adventurous soldier, named Cummins, reached a point overhanging the Bishop's Palace, which commanded a view of the whole city. The utmost activity seemed to prevail among the Mexicans, who were busily employed in repairing the old fortifications and erecting new ones. - The number of troops was not ascertained, but from the movements observable, it was evident they were preparing every means of defence.
The crops it is feared, are almost irreparably injured. The cotton harvest is annihilated; as for the corn much will be saved, although greatly deteriorated.
The Mexican peasantry are employed very diligently in cutting wood and piling it on the banks of the river, for the steamboats. They receive $2.50 a cord. It is muskeet wood, and burns very well. Gen. Taylor put it to them, whether they would cut it and get paid, or oblige him to have it cut by his own men, when they would lose the price of labor. Wood, however, he added, must be had.
Business is very brisk at Matamoros. Fine weather had again assumed
a permanent aspect; the waters were every where falling, and the whole
of the military were joyfully preparing for the opening campaign.
[GLP]
70.352 Aug 1, 1846 mounted riflemen and Mormon infantry for California
"Army of the West"
We find the above designation fully assumed in an official order from Col. Kearney, 1st U S. dragoons, dated "Headquarters, Army of the West, Fort Leavenworth, June 19th, 1846,"directed to Capt. Allen, of said regiment, which together with Capt. Allen's "circular to the Mormons,"dated "Camp of the Mormons, Mount Pisgah, June 26th,"are published in the St. Louis Republican, of the 24th, as taken from the Nauvoo Eagle, of the 17th June. The overture to the Mormons in the orders and circular are very comprehensive. Gen. Kearny distinctly point to California as his place of destination, and that he stipulates for the discharge of the Mormons from service in that country. He asks for five companies of infantry. The Mormons are eager to embrace the overture. The Republican adds: "We learn from the same source that Gen. Kearny in consideration of their having placed five hundred men at the disposal of the government, has emigrating Mormons, and that they shall have the use of "any of the Indian lands they may think proper to select,"until they are ready to cross the mountains. The Mormons have, in accordance with this arrangement, selected Grand Island, on the Platt river, for their temporary residence. It is a large tract and has a salt spring upon it. There they will winter, and collect the entire Mormon population of the west, preparatory to their march to California next spring. They propose to push forward from this point as rapidly as possible, and, after reaching in, to send back from five hundred to one thousand wagons, for the purpose of helping along those who may yet be in Illinois, Iowa, or Missouri. This is to be done with all possible expedition. Grand Island is stated to be between one hundred and two hundred miles west of COuncil BLuffs. At the last dates the requisition of Gen. Kearny was rapidly filling up; and on the 17th, the United States officers gave the Mormons a splendid fete or ball, which is said to have been a fine affair."
A letter from an officer date --Camp at Cotton Wood, July 10th, published in the National Intelligencer, of the 30th, states that the detachment crossed Kansas on the 2d, and were 180 miles from Fort Leavenworth, without meeting with any accident. They had no intelligence as yet from the detachment sent under Captain Moore to overtake the Santa Fe expedition.
The companies of Mormon infantry and col. Price's regiment of mounted
Missourians, are expected to join general Kearny at Bent's Ford, at
which place he halts for them to come up. Including these he
will have about 3 200 men with which to invade Mexico and Santa Fe.
[RCG]
NRR 70.368 Nashville "Union's"correspondence on the campaign, move toward Monterey anticipated
70.368 Aug 8, 1846 Camargo taken
Camargo was taken possession of by the advance corps, without a shadow
of opposition.
[RCG]
70.368 Aug 8, 1846 wagons purchase and contracted for in Atlantic states
The U.S. Quartermaster at Baltimore, a few days since, advertised
that he would purchase as number of wagons for the U.S. army.
The notice came to a ready market. The way his quarters were beset
forthwith, and the crowd of wagons that were ready for Uncle Sam's cash,
was a caution. We have heard of persons obtaining $150 for second
hand wagons, that cost when now $90; and again we have heard of persons
who had their eyes open for a speculation, realizing $600 in a single
day by purchasing up wagons, and selling them to the government --
all scandal, perhaps. Yesterday's American contained a
laconic notice from the Quartermaster, that he had "wagons enough, and
would purchase no more."
[RCG]
70.368 Aug 8, 1846 expenses of the war
Expenses of the War. The St. Louis Republican of a recent date has the following:
"It is only by ascertaining the actual cost of particular items that the expenses of the war with Mexico can be estimated. The government agents, a few days since, purchased five hundred barrels mess pork for the "use of the army of the West." This pork is to be transported to Santa Fe. It cost $10 per barrel. Three or hour years ago supplies were needed for an expedition on the same route, and contracts were made with Bent & St. Vrain, for transportation. They were paid 8 cents per lb., from Independence to Bent's Fort. The government, of course, paid the transportation to Independence. It is alleged that the contract to which we have alluded was a losing concern, and that no one will undertake it for less than ten cents per pound. A barrel of pork will average 320 pounds. The cost of its transportation from Fort Leavenworth, to which point all public stores are shipped to Bent's Fort, will then be thirty-two dollars. But this is not all. It has there to be wagoned to Santa Fe, and it is a very moderate calculation to say that the additional cost, with the transportation from St. Louis to Fort Leavenworth, will increase the cost to $40 per barrel. Add the original cost and it makes the actual expense of the barrel of pork, on its delivery at Santa Fe, fifty dollars. In other words, the government pays $25,00 for the 500 barrels of pork.
"The cost of all other freight must be charged in the same way --
by the pound-- and the expense cannot be much less than we have estimated."
[RCG]
70.368 August 8, 1846, move toward Monterey anticipated
"It is now understood that we will move towards Monteray, a beatiful town at the head of the San Juan (river), about two hundred miles distant. I think it is probable that in two weeks more the mounted force, viz. the Texas mounted riflemen and the United States dragoons will be on their march thither. If we can get the needful transportation, we will overrun and occupy, before the end of summer, all that part of Mexico lying on this side of the Auahuae mountains. This I imagine will be the end of our operations in this direction. If the war continues, the main blow must be stricken through Vera Cruz. The means of reaching that point by water are always abundant, and we are taken at once into the heart of the enemy. where every blow will count. To approach the city of Mexico by Monterey will require immense transportation of provisions and forage, over an uninhabited desert of a thousand miles, with roads through mountains and defiles.
We hear but little
of the enemy. The rumor is, and has been for some weeks, that they are fortifying
the pass this side of Monterey. It is said to be a strong place.
Yet we will pass it, if we try."
[GLP]
70.368 August 8, 1846, CAMP, ON THE BATTLE-FIELD
MAY 10TH, 1846.
SIR, - In compliance with your request, I have the honor to report that, in the deployment of the 4th Infantry, I found myself in command of companies B, D, and K, on the left of the road as we entered, and having been ordered to cross to the right abd advance, did so. After crossing the pond, I had with me Lieuts. Hays and Woods and about twenty men of different regiments, mostly however, of the 4 th. Upon deploying my men on the crest of the hill, I discovered one of the enemy's pieces about fifty yards in my front which was defended by about 150 Infantry. I charged and took the piece and attempted to spike it, but not being able to do so, took it back to a place of safety. - The enemy had a breast-work in my rear, and opened a heavy fire on me, with about ten men, I dislodged him and drove him across the road. Too much credit cannot be given to Lieuts. Hays and Wooda, of the 4 th. They were among the very first to reach the piece, and to them belongs the credit of its capture. - Whilst I was engaged in driving the enemy from his breast-work, these officers, with their men, repulsed a party that charged them in order to recapture the piece. I cannot refrain from calling your attention to Sergeant Major Maloney and Corporal Farrall, who behaved with remarkable coolness and gallantry. - Everybody did his duty nobly, as becomes American soldiers.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant.
ROBERT C. BUCHANAN, Capt. 4th Infantry
To
Maj. G. W. ALLEN, Command'g 4 th Inf'y.
[GLP]
70.368 August 8, 1846, Death of Lieut. Blake, deaths at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma
LIEUT. BLAKE. A letter from Gen. Worth, dated New Orleans, May 18, 1846, says. - You will probably by mail, hear of the loss of that gallant ornament and devoted member of your corps, my warmly cherished friend, Blake. The manner adds poignancy to our sorrows. Had he fallen in the conflict, in which by all accounts, he had especially distinguished himself, regrets would have been turned into envy. After the battle, on casting aside his weapons, one of his pistols accidently discharged, and gave him a mortal wound. Knowing and valueing him as I did, you will readily conceive how I deplore his loss, both as a gallant and true hearted friend, and accomplished comrade. He has left no better soldier behind."-
"Our troops hav ebehaved with great intrepidity. - Every man has done his duty. My own gallant regiment speaks for itself in the list of the killed and wounded - verified by the colors of the crack Mexican regiment, that of Tobasco. Would to God I could have been with them; but a sad fate ordered otherwise. There is time yet; it is but the beginning of the end. I sail to-morrow, and, with God's blessing will be in line by the 21st.
(Lieut. Blake served with Gen. Worth throughout his operations in Florida.)
THE MORTALLY WOUNDED. The Surgeon General of the Army on the Rio Grande has sent to the editor of the Washington Union a list of the private soldiers who were mortally wounded in the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, and who expired on the days of the battles, or have since died of their wounds. It is as follows:
William Atherton, Lewis H. Tucker, George Bates, Charles Wilson, Frederick Papae, James Manning, Thomas Cantwell, - Martin, - Eichler, Owen Hawkins, James Morgan, William B. Fuller, John Forsyth, Matthew Niddy, Charles Marsland, George Chisholm, Philip Lee, Orlando Pierce, Robt. Mathews, Daniel Mc-Dardie, - Eldridge, James Stockley, - Albertson, - Shermaher, Weigart Horace, - Francis, - Anthony, - Fisher, - Mullen, - Hunt, - Hart, - Wallace, - Farrell, - Lewis, - Murray, - Waldron, - Patton, - Haddock.
The
names of the men who were killed outright, or who did not come under
the observation of the surgeons, have not been reported to the Surgeon
General's Office.
[GLP]
70.371 Aug 15, 1846 volunteers return to New Orleans
The brig Empresario, the steamer New York, and the schooner Native, all reached New Orleans on the 1st from Galveston and the seat of war -- bringing a number of volunteers that had been discharged under orders from government. Among the passengers by the New York and Col. Morgan, Capt. Holton, and Lieut. Alvord, of the U. States army; Col. Narks, Adj. Hunter, Lieut. Harris, of the Andrew Jackson regiment, Louisiana volunteers; Col. Dakin, Maj. McCall, Capts. Fowles and Clark, and Lieut. Mace, of Dakin's regiment; and Col. Walton, Lieut. Col. Forno, Maj. Breedlove, and Dr. Wilson, of the Washington.
The Empresario brought back Capt. Desha's company of Alabama
volunteers, who have been ordered to New Orleans, to be mustered
out of the service, in compliance with the instructions of the war
department. Six additional companies of Alabama volunteers and the
St. Louis Legion are to be disbanded. The regiment of Cols.
Peyton and Featherston are not recognized by the department as attached
to the service. Not a single company, and very few of the men
had accepted the alternative offered to them by the department, of
enlisting twelve months.
[RCG]
70.371 Aug 15, 1846 various items
A number of fine artillery companies arrived at the Brazos before
the departure of the Empresario. Gen. Smith, with the
3d and 4th regiments U.S. Infantry, had proceeded to Camargo. Brig.
Gen. Hamer was to be left in command at Matamoros, with a regiment of
volunteers and a supply of artillery to garrison the ports. Gov.
Henderson, at the last accounts, was lying dangerously ill at Matamoros,
little hope was entertained of his revovery.
[RCG]
70.372, August 15, 1846, War with Mexico, Volunteers, Navy
The brig Empresario,the steamer New York, and the schooner Nutwe, all reached New Orleans on the 1st from Galveston and the seat of war - bringing a number of volunteers that had been discharged under orders from government. Among the passengers by the New York are Col. Morgan, Capt. Holton, and Lieut. Alvord, of the U.States army; Col. Narks, Adj. Hunter, Lieut. Harris, of the Andrew Jackson regiment, Louisiana volunteers; Col. Dakin, Maj. McCall, Capts. Fowles and Clark, and Lieut. Mace, of Dakins regiment; and Col. Walton, Lieut. Col. Forno, Maj. Breedlove, and Dr. Wilson, of the Washington.
The Empresario brought back Capt. Desha's company of Alabama volunteers, who have been ordered to New Orleans, to be mustered out of the service, in compliance with the instuctions of the war department. Six additional companies of Alabama volunteers and the St. Louis Legion are to be disbanded. The regiment of Cols. Peyton and Featherston are not recognized by the department as attached to the service. Not a single company, and very few of the men had accepted the alternative offered to them by the department, of enlisting for twelve months.
A number of fine artillery companies arrived at the Brazos before the departure of the Empresario. Gen. Smith, with the 3d and 4th regiments U. S. Infantry, had proceeded to Camargo. Brig. Gen. Hamer was to be left in command at Matamoros, with a regiment of volunteers and a supply of artillery to garrison the ports. Gov. Henderson, at the last accounts, was lying dangerously ill at Matamoros, little hope was entertained of his recovery.
The propeller Massachusetts arrived at the Brazos on the 26th ult. The brig Crusoe struck on Brazos bar in going over, and upon making the landing she unfortunately sunk. The clerk of the New York reports that he saw on the 29 ththe bark Lazan, hence for Brazos Santiago, ashore ten miles to the east of the Brazos. The troops on board were all saved. - Her cargo consisted of government stores which were all saved; the vessel was a total loss.
Nothing was known of the movements of the Mexican forces. Letters from the city of Mexico stated that Paredes was to leave the capital to join the army on the 29th ult.
INCIDENTS OF THE BATTLE FIELD.
The Maryland Line. A letter from Point Isabel on the 2d inst., says: "There were four gentlemen from Baltimore in the battle of Palo Alto: the gallant and ill-fated Ringgold, who fell at the close of a long fight, in which he did incalculable damage to the enemy; Capt. Magruder, who, when the Mexican army charged upon the square of the artillery battalion, then unsupported by any other battalion, seized a musket which had fallen from the hands of a man killed near him, and fighting with the soldiers in the ranks, assisted in repelling the charge; Lieut. Randolph Ridgely, who, commanding two pieces, dashed to the assistance of the fifth infantry in the square, when charged by the Mexican Red Lancers, and in the most gallant manner assisted that regiment in repulsing it; and lastly, Mr. Lloyd Tilganan, a gentleman amateur, who graduated at West Point and resigned; but who, upon this occasion, reconnoitered the enemy's whole line before the battle, and, as a volunteer aid to Gen. Taylor, exposed his person every where, and was always in the hottest part of the field."
THE VETERAN OF NAPOLEON.
As Churchill's battalion of artillery were advancing to take their position in the second line of battalion on the 8th, a private in the 4 th regiment was come up to, who lay upon the battle field with both his legs shot off. He was one of the first that fell after the cannonade commenced, and was a veteran in Napoleon's wars. After having escaped in the terrible conflicts of Austrelitz and Wagnam, and in the retreat from Moscow, and the battle of Waterloo, he lived to fall on the Palo Alto, by a cannon shot from a Mexican battery. As his fellow soldiers passed him and noticed at every pulsation of his heart, that the blood flowed from his wounds, they stopped an instant to sympathise with him, the noble hearted fellow, as his eyes were glazing in death, waved them on, and with his last breath, said, "Go comrades, I have only got what a soldier enlists for."
A
private, on the 9th, who had followed Lieut. Dobbins through
the thickest of the fight, raised his musket at a Mexican, and would have
blown him through if the poor fellow had not most petiously cried out amigo,
amigo, at the same time dropping his weapon; the private did the same and
advanced towards the Mexican to take him prisoner, the Mexican then perfidiously
raised his piece and instantly killed the generous American. This
so enraged Lieut. Dobbins, that he drew his bowie knife and at a bound
reached the coward and literally split his head in twain.
[GLP]
70.373 Aug 15, 1846 notice of the departure of Maj. E. Kirby for the war
Major E. Kirby. Among the distinguished officers of the army
that embarked on board the steamship Alabama, on Saturday evening bound
for the seat of war, we noticed Major E. Kirby, of the regular army.
Major Kirby, has rendered his country much service in his time, having
served in the last war, and in the Black Hawk and Florida campaigns.
He belongs to the Cincinnatus school of soldiers; for when his country
needs not his services in the field, he may be found tilling the
soil on his farm near Brownsville, Jefferson county, N.Y., formerly
the residence of his distinguished father-in-law, the late Major Ge.
Jacob Brown. It was the good fortune of the writer of this to
meet Major K. last September, at the exhibition of the New York State
Agriculture Society, at Utica, and well could he descant upon the beauties
of a Burham, a Decon, and a Hereford. Major K. has gone out as
paymaster general, and took with him $100,000 for the pay of soldiers--and
it may be safely ventured that he is shipper of Mexican dollars to Mexico.
N. Orleans Tropic.
[RCG]
NNR 70.373 Aug 15, 1846 Account of the Heroine of Fort Brown
THE HEROINE OF FORT BROWN. The N. Orleans Picayune has a letter from Matamoros which furnishes some interesting particulars respecting the heroine of Fort Brown, who is generally known in the army of the south as "The Great Western."- The writer says: -
"She was first brought to the notice of the public in a few remarks by Lieut. Bragg, at the collation given by the army to the Louisiana delegation at Gen. Arista's headquarters in Matamoros. He mentioned her gallant conduct and noble bearing during the whole of the bombardment. A few of the incidents ofthe life of this extraordinary woman, which I have been able to pick up in camp, will be read with some interest; they prove that the sex has not been unrepresented in the soul-stirring and bloody scenes on the Rio Grande.
The Great Western belong to a class known and recognized in the organization of the army as "Laundresses,"three of whom are allowed to draw rations in each company, and are required to wash for the soldiers thereof, at a price regulated by a council of officers. She arrived at Corpus Christi last autumn with the 7th infantry, to one of the companies of which her husband was attached. Up to the time the army marched for the Rio Grande, she performed all her appropriate duties, and in addition, kept a "mess"for the young officers of the regiment.
When the army took up its line of march for the Rio Grande, the women, with a few rare exceptions, were left behind to come by sea. A very few procured ponies and followed thier husbands on their tedious and arduous march. Not so with "The Great Western." Her husband was sent by water, whether on duty or for disability I am unable to learn; but she, true to her character, declaring that "the boys"(young officers of her mess) "must have somebody to take care of them,"purchased a mule and a cart, packed her luggage, cooking utensils, and supplies, mounted behind her donkey, with whip in hand, and displayed upon the whole route qualities and attainments which the best teamster in the train might have envied. During the whole journey she kept up the "mess,"a relief from the burdens of which is the greatest boon to an officer on the march. The brigade to which she was attached arrived upon the banks of the Sal Colorado as Gen. Taylor was preparing to cross with the dragoons and the 1st brigade of infantry. The Mexicans upon the opposite bank were making great demonstrations by blowing bugles, &c., &c. After calmly surveying the scene from her cart, she remarked, with great coolness and determination, that "if the general would give her a good strong pair of tongs, whe would wade that river, and whip every scoundrel that dare show himself!"It may be imagined that the men were not backward in crossing after that.
When Gen. Taylor marched to Point Isabel with his army, on the 1st May, the 7th infantry, and of course, The Great Western, remained to garrison Fort Brown. How that noble regiment and the two companies of artillery left in this work sustained themselves, is already known, but nothing will more gratify them than to have justice done their gallant heroine, of whom they speak in the warmest terms. She, with all the other women left behind, some eight or ten, moved into the fort, where her mess was soon put in operation, the position of her tent and fire being near the centre of the fort. The enemy's fire opened on the 3d, just as she was commenceing her arrangements for the "boys"breakfast. Every security that could possibly be provided was offered to the women, to whom the gallant soldier always gives his first attention. The magazines were the only "bomb proofs"in the fort, and as the government had sent no amuninition to fill them, the next most inflammable material - the women - found perfect security in them. These women, however, be it said to the honor of the sex, were not idle. - Most nobly did they ply the needle in preparing sand bags out of the officers' and soldiers' tents, wherewith to strengthen the work, and protect the artillerymen when serving their guns. The Great Western, true to herself again, declined participating in this protection of sewing, and continued her labors at the fire, in the open air. From the firing of the first gun all hands were at their posts, Lowd's and Bragg's artillery speaking in tones of thunder the indignation they felt at being thus saluted on a bright May morining.
When the hour arrived for breakfast, but few expected the luxury which awaited them. The mess was as well attended to as if nothing but a morning drill with blank cartridges had come off, and in addition a large supply of delicious hot coffee was awaiting the thristy, who had but to call and partake, without distinction of rank. To some of the artillerymen, who were unable to leave thier guns, the beverage was carried by this 'ministering angel,' and, as may readily be believed, no belle of Orleans, as much as she might be admired and beloved, ever met a more gracious reception. The fire of the artillery was kept up almost incessantly until dinner hour - a soldier's dinner hour is 1 o'clock - when the good and generous woman again provided for those who were almost utterly exhausted and worn out, a delicious dish of bean soup - this bean soup is declared by the Mexicans to be the foundation of that invincible spirit which they have seen so strikingly displayed by the Yankee soldiers. This she distributed again, without money and without price. Thus did she continue to discharge her duties during the seven days that the enemy kept up an incessant cannonade and bombardment. She was ever to be found at her post; her meals were always ready at the hour, "and always of the best the market afforded."
When the despatches were made up for General Taylor on the evening of the 4th, a number of officers and others had written to their friends at Point Isabel, and among them "The Great Western"had found time to communicate with her husband; and I have frequently heard it said by those who saw her letter, for it was loudly called for and made public, that her description, if not the most accurate, was certainly the most grapic which was given of the events of the 3d and 4th May. She expressed her full confidence in the ability of the garrison to sustain itself, and only regretted the absence of her husband. To supply his place, however, I am told that she applied, early in the action, for a musket and ammunition, which she received and put in a secure place, expressing her determination to have full satisfaction whenever the enemy should dare approach within range of her piece. This they never did, and our heroine must rest contented with the refelction that she nobly performed her own duty and will long be remembered by the besieged garrison of Fort Brown.
She is probably as celebrated for her personal appearance as she is for
her deeds. With an erect and majestic carriage, she glories in a height -
six feet - which fully entitles her to a place in the grenadier, any soldier
of which might well envy her athletic but graceful form. But her reputation,
the dearest of all things to a woman, is what she prides herself on. The
tongue of slander has never yet dared to attack her well earned and well
sustained character. With virtue as a basis, and such heroic coduct to build
with, she never need fear the necessity of exercising her extraordinary physical
ability in defence of that reputation. But if attacked, the gallant defenders
of Fort Brown will, I doubt not, be found pressing forward in her defence,
and woe be to the dastard who receives a discharge of artillery from such
gunners."
[LA]
70.384 Aug 15, 1846 the Mormon infantry at Fort Leavenworth
Mormon Volunteers. Capt. (now Lieut. Col.) Allen has reached
Fort Leavenworth with 500 Mormon volunteer infantry. They proceed
forthwith to join Gen. Kearny in his expedition against Santa Fe.
[RCG]
70.385 Aug 22, 1846 rumor of Mexican request that Great Britain and France mediate the end of the war with the United States
The Offer To Negotiate For Peace
President Polk's overtures to Mexico, to send or to receive a minister
plenipotentiary with powers to settle the existing controversy and
terminate the war, will not only meet the cordial approbation of the
people of this country, but will also elicit the plaudits of all the
Christian powers. This proposition of the president, it will be
observed, was not at all dependant upon the success of his application
to congress for the two millions of dollars which he asked that body
for, with a view to aid him in the negotiation. The letter from
the secretary of state, Mr. Buchanan, to the Mexican minister of foreign
relations, proposing negotiation, was dated the 27th of July, 1846,
and was winging its way towards "the Halls of the Montasumas,"a full
week before the president, in confidential message to the senate,
apprised that body of his having any such design. The confidential
message was sent to the senate on the 4th of August--informing that
body of the step he had taken, and asking money to aid him in negotiation
a peace.--That the Mexican government will be constrained to accept this
overture of our governments under which they are laboring, will now
be added beyond doubt--the earnest advice of the British legation, and
the offer of that governments to mediate for a peace between the United
States and Mexico. England might have been disposed to promote
a dispute between Mexico and the United States, very naturally, so long
as she had a quarrel of her own with the latter, which there was a probability
would terminate in war, but having now settled all disputes of her own,
she has such obvious interests to sub serve by a restoration of peace
in Mexico--her commerce and her capitalists have so much to loose by
Mexico being blockaded, invaded, overrun, and dismembered, that there can
be no doubt of the sincerity of their interposition.
[RCG]
70.385 Aug 22, 1846 comments on the offer to negotiate for peace
To the influence of the British diplomatic agents at Mexico, it is
probable will soon be added that of a new French minister, with whom
a frigate was about to proceed to the gulf with, when the last steamer
left Europe. No potentate of Europe is more anxious to maintain
a general peace amoungst the Christian powers, that Louis Philippe.
The continuance of a war between the United States and Mexico, would
soon embrace other powers in the conflict.
[RCG]
70.386 Aug 22, 1846 promotion and appointments for distinguished services in the campaign
Military Appointments
The following brevet appointments have been made in the army by the President, and confirmed by the Senate:--
In Executive Session.
Senate of the United States, August 8, 1846.
Resolved. That the Senate advise and consent to the following promotions in the army and brevet for gallant and distinguished services in the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, in Texas, on the 8th and 9th of May, 1846, and in the defense of Fort Brown, Texas, during its bombardment from the 3d to the 9th of May, 1846, agreeably to their nominations respectively, viz:
Lieutenant Colonel James S. Mc-Intosh, of the 5th regiment of infantry, to be colonel by breet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Lieut. Colonel Matthew M. Payne,of the 4th regiment of artillery, to be colonel by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Brevet Lieut. Colonel William G. Belknap, major of the 8th infantry, to be colonel by breet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Captain Edgar S. Hawkins, of the 7th regiment of infantry, to be major by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Capt. George A. Mc-Call, of the 4th regiment of infantry, to be major by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Capt. Joseph B. F. Mansfield, of the corps of engineers, to be major brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Capt. Alexander S. Hooe, of the 5th regiment of infantry, to be major by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Capt. Robert C. Buchanan, of the 4th regiment of infantry, to be major by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Capt. Charles A. May, of the 2d regiment of dragoons, to be major by brevet, to date from the 8th of May, 1846.
Capt. P. W. Barbour, of the 3d regiment of infantry, to be major by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Capt. James Duncan, of the 2d regiment of artillery, to be major by brevet, to date from the 8th of May, 1846.
First Lieutenant Randolph Ridgely, of the 3d regiment of artillery, to be captain by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
First Lieutenant William H. Churchill, of the 3d regiment of artillery, to be captain by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Second Lieut. James S. Woods, of the 4th regiment of infantry, to be first lieutenant by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Second Lieut. Alexander Hays, of the 4th regiment of infantry, to be first lieutenant by brevet, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Captain James Duncan, 2d artillery, to be lieutenant colonel by brevet, for gallant and highly distinguished conduct in the
battle at Resaca de la Palma, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Captain Charles A. May, 2d dragoons, to be lieutenant colonel by brevet, for gallant and highly distinguished conduct during
the battle of Resaca de la Palma, to date from the 9th of May, 1846.
Subsequently to the nomination of the above, which was on Saturday, a list of names for brevet appointments was received from Gen. Taylor, containing the following in addition to the above. These additional names were submitted to the Senate yesterday morning; but as that body did not go into Executive session before its final adjournment at 12 o'clock, the list lays over for the future action:
Lieutenant Colonel Childs, 3d artillery.
Captain C.F. Smith, 2d artillery.
Capt. J.B. Scott, 4th artillery.
Captain Lewis N. Morris, 3d infantry.
Lieutenant Colonel J. Garland, 4th infantry.
Brevet Major George Allen, 4th infantry.
Major T. Staniford, 5th infantry.
Captain M. Scott, 5th infantry.
Captain Montgomery, 8th infantry.
Lieutenant C. R. Gates, 8th infantry.
Lieutenant G. Lincoln, 8th infantry.