NNR 73.001 call for new troops from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana
NNR 73.001 general order no. 44 organizing troops in and around Veracruz
NNR 73.001 election of officers of the Maryland light artillery, company to depart for Veracruz
NNR 73.001 movements of troops and volunteers
NNR 73.001-73.002 troops to defend the line of communication between Veracruz and Perote
NNR 73.002 Gen. Robert Patterson to assume command of his division in Mexico
NNR 73.004 James Buchanan's letter on his sentiments on the Wilmot Proviso
NNR 73.004, 73.074 Col. Louis D. Wilson, obituary
NNR 73.004 movements of troops
NNR 73.004, 73.005 Gen. Mariano Paredes
y Arillaga's return to Mexico
NNR 73.004 guerrilla war
NRR 73.005 guerrilla war, affairs on the Rio Grande, helping the train of supplies, all idea of advancing on San Luis abandoned, Capt. Henry Baylor's affair with guerrillas
NRR 73.005 Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally and guerrillas
NNR 73.005, 73.017 Col. Lewis Gustavus DeRussy's regiment
NNR 73.005 arrival of Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny and Col. John Charles Fremont at Saint Louis
NNR 73.006 party from California
reports Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny in supreme command, Lt. Col. John Charles
Fremont not under arrest, Com. Robert Field Stockton's flagship at Monterey,
ships at San Francisco,
affairs at Santa Fe
NNR 73.006 guerrilla war
NNR73.006 movement of troops, &c.
NNR 73.006 partisan warfare
NRR 73.010 efforts in Honduras to assist Mexico to resist the United States
NRR 73.017 battle of San Angel
NNR 73.017 anxiety of the public, of San Angel, Mexico invested, armistice proposed,
Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally's train reaches Jalapa, Capt. James Mayo
Wells' detachment attacked
NNR 73.020-73.021 New York "Tribune" and "Courier and Enquirer" as to the course for the Whigs relative to the war
NNR 73.022 tranquility in California, no war among rival governors, no resistance by the Creoles to Americanization
NNR 73.033 comment on European interference in the war
NNR 73.034 the pay of the regiment of Col. Alexander William Doniphan
NRR 73.034 comments on the armistice
NRR 73.034 order to passengers landing at Veracruz
NNR 73.034 Com. Matthew Calbraith Perry's orders for visiting foreign vessels in Mexican ports
NRR 73.034 death of a guerrilla chief
NNR 73.034 difficulty
of reinforcements in reaching Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally
NNR 73.034-73.035 Capt. Lorenzo A. Besancon's detachment said to have been captured
NNR 73.036, 038 advance of Gen. Winfield Scott on Mexico City, battles of Contreras and Churubusco
NNR 73.038, 73.039 armistice ratified, its terms
NNR 73.039-73.040 letters of George Wilkins Kendall about the armistice
NRR 73.040 list of killed and wounded in the late battles in Mexico
NNR 73.040 correspondence of Gen. Winfield Scott and Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna about the armistice
NRR 73.040 concern for Lt. David Henderson's detachment
NNR 73.040-73.041 remarks on operations, orders for two brigades of troops to embark for Veracruz to reinforce Gen. Winfield Scott, disposition of remaining forces
NNR 73.041 guerrilla affair
NNR 73.041 operations at Santa Fe and Chihuahua
NRR 73.041 death of Gen. Enos B. Hopping
NRR 73.041-73.042 Mexican account of the battles
NNR 73.042 manifesto of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
NNR 73.044-73.047 the question of more territory and of the Wilmot Proviso
NRR 73.048 new companies of Illinois volunteers sent to Mexico
NNR 73.049 encounter of rangers with the escort of the Spanish minister
NRR 73.049 Dr. Cooper and the dragoons
NNR 73.049 letter from Gen. Gideon Johnson Pillow, comments by S.W. Oakey
NRR 73.049 revenue derived from tariff on Mexico
NRR 73.050 operations of ships in the Gulf
NRR 73.050 company of Marines leave Washington for Mexico
NRR 73.053 editorial on the war
NNR 73.053 British courier from Mexico proceeds through United States to London, our government without dispatches, rumors of peace, negotiations
NRR 73.053 Gen. Gabriel Valencia's defiance of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, his arrest
NRR 73.053 Gen. Juan Alvarez intending to assemble troops to attack the Americans
NRR 73.053 Gen. Mariano Paredes y Arillaga said to be marching on the capital
NRR 73.053 Gen. Jose Mariano de Salas' accusations against Gen. Anastasio Torrejon at Contreras
[see also, 73.102]NNR 73.054 detail of Gen. Winfield Scott's march from Puebla to Mexico City, movements prior to the battles
73.055 letter detailing operations and battles
NRR 73.055 letter from Buena Vista
NNR 73.056-73.057 "Mustang's" account of the battles
NRR 73.058 attack on the mule train near Papagallas
NRR 73.058 cases of yellow fever at Brazos
NNR 73.058 Capt. Mirabeau B. Lamar's expedition
NRR 73.058 items from Gen. John Ellis Wool's command
NRR 73.058 attack on a train
from Mier to Monterey
NNR 73.058 rumor at Buena Vista of the capitulation of Mexico City
NRR 73.058 released American prisoners arrive at Matamoros
NRR 73.058 troops leaving Gen. Zachary Taylor for Veracruz, his intention to visit the United States
NRR 73.058 account of the mutiny among the North Carolina troops
NRR 73.058 Yellow fever in New Orleans
NNR 73.064 arrangements for letters to and from the Army
NR 73.064 Gen. William Jenkins Worth's letter on Col. Pierce Mason Butler's death
NRR 73.064 Col. Pierce Mason Butler's letter to Gen. William Jenkins Worth
NNR 73.065 failure of negotiations
for peace, Gen. Winfield Scott accuses Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna,
and he accuses Scott, of violating the armistice, hostilities recommended,
a battle ensues, contradictory accounts of its result
NNR 73.065 reinforcements reach Veracruz
NNR 73.065 remarks relative to dispatches
NRR 73.065 report of a severe battle being fought and part of the capital being in possession of Gen. Winfield Scott
NRR 73.067 tribute to Assistant Surgeon Prevost's efforts during the Battle of Buena Vista
NRR 73.067 Georgia mounted battalion and a battalion of infantry forming for Mexico
NRR 73.067 movements of troops for Mexico
NRR 73.067 organization of two new Kentucky regiments
NRR 73.067 yellow fever aboard ships at Anton Lizardo and Tuxpan
NRR 73.067 Midshipman Robert Clay Rogers escapes from the Mexicans and reaches American headquarters
NNR 73.071 resolutions of the New Jersey Whig convention on annexation of new territory
NNR 73.071-73.073 Gen. James Shields and Col. James P. Dickinson's reports on the fighting of August 20
NNR 73.073 further particulars of the mutiny among the North Carolina troops
NNR 73.073-73.074 letter from the Massachusetts regiment in Mexico
NNR 73.074 letter from Gen. Franklin Pierce
NRR 73.075 letter concerning Gen. Gideon Johnson Pillow at Cerro Gordo
NNR 73.075 letter from an officer about the recent battles in Mexico
NNR 73.076 list of killed and wounded in the Palmetto Regiment
NRR 73.076 Notice of the Difficulties Among the Mexicans in Treating for Terms
NRR 73.076 Forces Under Gen. Winfield Scott as He Marched on Mexico City
NRR 73.076 Santa Fe, murder of Lieut. Brown; Indian attack, disease
NNR 73.077 Gen. Sterling Price's journey to Fort Leavenworth
NRR 73.077 Veracruz in its palmy days
NNR 73.080 steamers in the Gulf
NRR 73.082 Gen. Winfield Scott and Nicholas Philip Trist reported on good terms
NRR 73.082 additional regiments of volunteers for Mexican service
NNR 73.083 New Jersey volunteers sail for Mexico, riot among them
NRR 73.083 court-martial acquits Col. Bennet Riley for his conduct at Cerro Gordo
NNR 73.083 Gen. Sterling Price to return to Santa Fe
NRR 73.083 six companies of mounted Georgia troops at Mobile en route to Mexico
NNR 73.083 the Encarnacion prisoners released
NNR 73.084 the Massachusetts Whig convention on the war with Mexico and annexation of territory
NNR 73.087-73.088 Dr. Cooper and Lt. David Henderson safe
NNR 73.088 reports concerning Capt. Lorenzo A. Besancon's company
NNR 73.088 deficiency of transports
NNR 73.088 news about
Gen. Mariano Paredes y Arrillaga in the vicinity of Puebla
NNR 73.088 train to leave Veracruz under command of Gen. Joseph Lane
NNR 73.088 Puebla surrounded, danger to the commands of Col. Thomas Childs
and Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally
NRR 73.088 Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally's train advances from Jalapa
NNR 73.088 account of Sergeant Riley the deserter
NRR 73.088 Mexican account of the Battle of Molino del Rey
NRR 73.089 Chapultepec
taken, Battle of Molino del Rey, city bombarded, obstinate resistance,
entrance of the Americans, Mexican forces evacuate
NNR 73.089 reports of Gen. Winfield Scott having entered the capital
NNR 73.089 pursuit of the enemy by Col. William Selby Harney's dragoons after
Churubusco
NNR 73.090-73.092 peace negotiation
NNR 73.091 description of Chapultepec, negotiations (during the armistice),
Nicholas Philip Trist's project of treaty, instructions to Mexican commissioners,
subsequent instructions Mexican terms
NNR 73.092 Gen. Gabriel Valencia's proclamation as governor of the city of Mexico
NNR 73.092 protest of Mexicans against any treaty made under the guns of invaders, proclamation of the governors of the states of Mexico and Puebla same effect
NNR 73.096 drain of specie
to pay for the Army in Mexico
NNR 73.096 loan for the war anticipated
NNR 73.097 Washington "Union" on Nicholas Philip Trist's instructions
NRR 73.098 ship Empire sails
from New York City for Charleston and Veracruz with recruits
NNR 73.098 over-subscription of the Georgia mounted battalion
NNR 73.098 notice of troops between Baton Rouge and Memphis who have not
been sent to Mexico
NRR 73.099 letter about Thomas Corwin's views on the acquisition of territory and the extension of slavery
NNR 73.099 attention in Prussia to the exploits of Gen. Zachary Taylor
NNR 73.101 anxiety for further intelligence from the Army, innumerable rumors, &c., circular issued after evacuating the capital, report relative to officers said to have been killed and wounded
NNR 73.101-73.102 Col. James Simmons McIntosh's official report concerning the battle of August 20
NNR 73.102 Lt. Col. Martin Scott's official report
NNR 73.102 Gen. Jose Mariano de Salas' official report about the fighting at Contreras
NNR 73.102 rumors of Gen. Winfield Scott having been attacked in the capital, Gen. Joseph Lane leaves Veracruz with train for Mexico, attacked and stopped at National Bridge
NNR 73.103 Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally's official report from Jalapa, the line of communication, Mexicans take Puebla, Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's address on resuming hostilities, tone of the Mexican press
NNR 73.104-73.106 Daniel Webster on the war
NNR 73.108-73.109 New York Whig convention on the Mexican war and the extension of slavery
NNR 73.109 official correspondence relative to the terms proposed by Nicholas Philip Trist, &c.
NRR 73.110-73.111, 73.157 account of the revolution undertaken by settlers in California before the acts of United States officers
NRR 73.112 deaths from yellow fever at Tampico and US
NRR 73.113 forces under Gen. Winfield Scott
NRR 73.113 comments of the Baltimore "American" on the proposal to acquire territory from Mexico
NRR 73.114 pain of the war (from "Union"), letter to mother of Lt. George Decatur Twiggs
NRR 73.115 letter describing the expedition of the Baltimore battalion from Veracruz
NRR 73.115 gloomy letter from a volunteer in the California expedition
NRR 73.115 operations of the Texas Rangers
NNR 73.118 officers killed and wounded, execution of deserters, Gen. Winfield Scott's general orders on occupying the capital, Washington "Union's" account and compliment
NRR 73.119-73.120 the battles of Molino del Rey and Chapultepec, and the capture of Mexico City (from the New Orleans "Delta")
NRR 73.120 number of shot and shells fired, letters from Veracruz, troops arrive, "Union's" statement of forces under Gen. Winfield Scott
NRR 73.120-73.121 George Wilkins Kendall's account of the Battle of Molino del Rey
NRR 73.120-73.121 entrance and conflict in Mexico City
NRR 73.122 Col. John W. Tibbatts' proclamation on assuming governorship of Monterey
NRR 73.122 items from California
NRR 73.122 "beauties of the war"
NRR 73.125 speech of John Macpherson Berrien on the war, his amendment to the three-million bill
NNR 73.125 23 OCT 1847 Union on Senator Berrien’s Amendment to the three million bill
NRR 73.129 rumor of Gen.
Jose Urrea advancing towards the Rio Grande and of Gen. Zachary Taylor
visiting the United States, both discredited by the "Union"
NRR 73.129 no dispatches yet from Gen. Winfield Scott, supposed
to have been intercepted, report that Gen. Jose Urrea is proceeding to
the Rio Grande with 20,000 men
NRR 73.130 official statement of the troops under Gen. Winfield Scott
NRR 73.130 tribute to Col. Martin Scott
NRR 73.131 notice of Virginia officers killed or wounded
NRR 73.136 movements on the city of Mexico (New Orleans "Courier")
NRR 73.137 an officer's account
NRR 73.138-73.140 march
from Puebla, the battles at Contreras and Churubusco
NRR 73.140 Gen. Nicholas Bravo and his staff taken prisoner
NRR 73.140 Gen. Winfield Scott proclaims martial law
NRR 73.140 Gen. John Anthony Quitman's orders
NRR 73.140 Gen. Winfield Scott's order concerning a conspiracy to surprise his forces
NRR 73.140-73.141 Mexican expose of Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's views
NRR 73.141 communication to the "National Intelligencer"
NRR 73.142-73.143 list of killed and wounded
NRR 73.144 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna summons Col. Thomas Childs to surrender at Puebla, is refused
NRR 73.144 Gen. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna is deserted by his troops, defies orders and marches for Oaxaca to raise a new Army
NRR 73.144 Americans
fortified at National Bridge
NRR 73.144 Capt. Jack Hays reaches Veracruz from Brazos
NRR 73.144 troops from New York sail for Mexico
NNR 73.144 the question of whether additional volunteers will be sought
NRR 73.146 the Encarnacion prisoners paid off
NNR 73.001 September 4, 1847, call for new troops from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana
OFFICIAL- New call for troops, The war department has first called for five new regiments, explosive of the regiment from Ohio, which is already reported to be raised, and is now in progress of being mustered into the public service, and will in a few days be en route for Vera Cruz.
The five new regiments from Kentucky are to rendezvous, one at Louisville, and the other at Smithland, at the mouth of the Cumberland river.
The regiments from Tennessee are to rendezvous, one at Nashville, and the other at Memphis.
The Indiana regiment is to rendezvous at such convenient point on the river Ohio as the Governor of the state may designate.
These five regiments are expected to be rapidly raised and promptly placed in the public service. Officers have already been made, which induced the executive to designate these states, and to make the necessary arrangements for embodying these troops without delay. [LTR]
NNR 73.001 September 4, 1847, general order no. 44 organizing troops in and around Vera Cruz
Headquarters, Department of Vera Cruz , Mexico, August 11, 1847
I. Lieut. Col. D.S. Miles, U.S. army, is placed in he immediate command of the troops of this city, and the cavalry and infantry outside the walls, ate the gate of Mercy and Bergard.
II. Lieut. Col. Miles will see that the proper guards are mounted, and give such orders as he may deem necessary for the protection of the city-communicating them to the colonel commanding whenever they differ with the orders now in existence.
III. The cavalry will be actively employed in scouring the country about Vera Cruz for about a circuit of 6 or 8 miles, further if necessary. The captains of cavalry are cautioned to take the very best care of their horses. The company of infantry stationed at Bergard, is especially to protect the mules and horses penned there.
IV. No Scouts or armed parties will go from the city or outposts, but by express orders of the commanding officer, or Lieut. Col. Miles; in the latter case, the lieutenant colonel will communicate with the commanding officer.
V. Second Lieutenant W.L. Crittenden is appointed adjutant of the post, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly.
VI. Officers of the day will report to Lt. Col. Miles for orders
By order of Col. H. Wilson: Adj’t U.S. infantry and A.A.A.G. Dept Vera Cruz.
NNR 73.001 September 4, 1847, election of officers of the Maryland light artillery, company to depart for Vera Cruz
Maryland light artillery.-Some informality having occurred in the first election of officers for this company, another election has been held, which resulted in the choice of the following gentlemen:-Captain, L. Tilghmen; First Lieutenant, Dr. Frisby Tilghman; Second do. Isaac Morrow; Second do. Arnold Tensfield. The company now numbers over 100 choice men, and will embark for Vera Cruz, on the 3rd of September, on the barque Paoli Capt. Welsh, which has been chartered by the government to transport them. There is also at Fort McHenry a company of volunteers from Washington city, which together with about 76 regular recruits, will also sail for the seat of war, on one of the several vessels about to start from this port. Besides the Poali, the transport brigs G.M. Randall. Capt. Pinkham, and Pecard. Capt. Buck, and the new transport schooner Mayer Vinton, are now here and will carry troops, horses, provisions, &c. to Vera Cruz and other ports on the Gulf of Mexico. [LTR]
NNR 73.001 September 4, 1847, movements of troops and volunteers
Georgia volunteers. The Columbus Enquirer of the 17th says:-The three companies that will compose the mounted battalion, we are informed, have been accepted by the executive, and we suppose may be looked for in this place in some eight or ten days. The companies are:
Capt. Goulding’s “Calhoun Guards,” Muscogee county.
Capt. Kendall’s “Opeotore Rangers,” do.
“ Fulton’s, Chattooga county.
“ Hamiltion’, Cass county
“ Wofford’s
do.
It is, we believe, generally understood that our fellow citizen, Capt. James S. Calhoun, will receive the appointment of Lieut. Colonel of this battalion.
The infantry battalion is as yet far from complete. Only two full companies, Captain Nelson, of Columbus, and Capt. Gaulden’s of Stewart, are yet organized.
The departure of volunteers. Capt. Latham’s fime company of volunteers, of the 2nd Ohio regiment, are, as we write this article, just leaving the city for the encampment at Cincinnati, where they will remain until regularly mustered into the service, and then be off for the seat of war. We return them, in this manner, our most grateful acknowledgements for their expression of friendly feeling, and hope their campaign may be both an agreeable and a glorious one. May health and success attend them wherever destiny may lead them. [ Ohio Statesman Aug. 25th.
Departure of troops. The following vessel were to leave New Orleans on the 23rd ult. for the seat of war.
The Steamship-New Orleans for Tampico, with five companies of the 3rd regiment Illinois volunteers, under the command of Lieut. Col. Hicks. The steamship Mary Kingsland, for Vera Cruz, with one company 2nd regiment Illinois volunteers, and Capt. Connolly’s company of Louisiana mounted volunteers. The steamship Massachusetts was also to leave for the same destination, with the remaining four companies of the 2 nd Illinois volunteers, under the command of Col. Collins.
The Telegraph was to leave on the 24th ult. for the Brazos, with a detachment of 12th infantry, under Capt. Clinck. [LTR]
NNR 73.001-002 September 4, 1847, troops to defend the line of communication between Vera Cruz and Perote
The line of communication between Vera Cruz and Perote.-A letter has just been received from Lieut. Col. Hughes of this city. He arrived by the river route at New Orleans on the th August, and left that place in the Mary Kingsland on the 23rd. He expects to reach Vera Cruz in advance of his command, unless they should have made and extraordinary run from the capes of Virginia. Lieut. Col. Hughes will have under his command the six companies which sailed from Baltimore some time since for Vera Cruz: and also one artillery company that has been raised in Baltimore, one company that is know raising in Washington, and perhaps two others that may be completed, the Colonel will have under him a regiment. It is destined for the line of communication from Vera Cruz to Jalapa and Perote.
Besides these, there are five companies of mounted volunteers from Louisiana, some of whom have already arrived at Vera Cruz, and the others were en route-the whole, in all probability, have arrived b this time. In addition to these, there are five companies of horse from Georgia, and three from Illinois. These are all en route for Vera Cruz.
Then, there is the regiment of Texas Rangers under Hayes, or such part of them as General Taylor can spare for service-at least five companies.
All these mounted volunteers have been called out to operate principally against the guerrillas; and when the line of communication is opened, they will join Gen Scott. Gen. Patterson, who left Washington on Monday on his way to Norfolk-there to deliver some baggage, which is to round to Pensacola in the Water Witch-will go thence to Pensacola where he is to embark in the same vessel with other officers, for his point of destination. It is said that he is to take charge or this military force, unless order should have been received from Gen. Scott to change these arrangements; and after he had opened the line of communication, he will join the General’s camp. [LTR]
72.002 September 4, 1847, Gen. Robert Patterson to assume command of his division in Mexico
Major General Patterson-The Pennsylvanian says, “he will assume the command of his division in Mexico, which, it will be recollected, he was deprived fo on the disbanding of the seven regiments of volunteers by General Scott, after the battle of Cerro Gordo.” [LTR]
NNR 73.004 September 4, 1847, James Buchanan’s letter on his sentiments on the Wilmot Provost
WILMONT PROVISO. The following letter from Mr. Buchanan on the Wilmot proviso, is from the Pennsylvanian. Washington, 25th August1847.
GENTLEMEN: I have been honored by the receipt of your kind invitation to unite with the democracy of Old Berks in their Harvest Home Celebration, to be held at Reading, on Saturday, the 28th inst. I should esteem in both a pleasure and a privilege to be present on that interesting occasion: it is, therefore, with regret I have to inform you, that my public duties will render this impossible.
I rejoice to observe that glorious democracy of “Old Berks” are buckling on their armor, and preparing for the approaching contest. It is long since any state election has involved such important consequences for the democracy of the Union, as the approaching election for the governor of Pennsylvania. On its result may probably depend the ascendancy of the democracy of the Union for years to come. Hence our democratic brethren of other states are witnessing the contest with intense anxiety. The field is a fair one; our candidate well tried and honest; and he has been regularly nominated by the party. Should he be defeated, at the attempt will be vain to explain the decision of the ballot boxes in any other manner than by admitting that the whigs have the majority. Our candidate for canal commissioner is, also, above all reproach, both personally and politically, and is eminently qualified for the duties of that important offices. If, under the circumstances, the democratic Keystone should give way, there is great danger that the arch may tumble into pieces. I do not apprehend defeat, unless our wily foe should first lull us into security by making no extraordinary public efforts; and then, at the eleventh hour, quietly steal a march upon us as they have done in some other states. Our vigilance ought to be constantly on the alert, until the moment of victory.
The question of slavery, in one of its ancient aspects, has been recently revived and threatens to convulse the country. The democratic party of the Union ought prepare themselves in time for the approaching strom. Their best security, in the hour of danger, is to cling fast to their time-honored principles. A sacred regard for the federal constitution, and for the reserved rights of the states, is the immoveable basis on which the party can alone safely rest. This has saved us from the inroads of abolition. Northern democrats are not expected to approve slavery in the abstract; but they owe it to themselves, as they value the Union, and all the political blessings which bountifully flow from it, to abide by the compromises of the constitution, and leave the question, where that instrument has left it, to the states wherein slavery exists. Our fathers have made this agreement with their brethren of the south; and it is not for the descendants of either party, in the present generations, to cancel this solemn compact. The abolitionists, by their efforts to annul it, have arrested the natural progress of emancipation, and done great injury to the slaves themselves.
After Louisiana was acquired from France by Mr. Jefferson, and when the state of Missouri, which constituted a part of it, was about to be admitted into the Union, the Missouri question arose, and in its progress threatened the dissolution of the Union. This was settled, in a spirit of mutual concession. Under the Missouri compromise, slavery was “forever prohibited” north of 36 deg. 30 min.; and south of this parallel the question was left to be decided by the people. Congress, in the admission of Texas following in the footsteps of their predecessors, adopted the same rule; and, in my opinion, the harmony of the states, and even the security of the Union itself, require that the line of the Missouri compromise should be extended to any new territory which we may acquire from Mexico.
I should entertain the same opinion, even if it were certain that this would become a serious practical question; but that it never can be thus considered, must be evident to all who have attentively examined the subject.
Neither the soil, the climate, nor the productions of the portion of California south of 36 deg. 30min. nor indeed any portion of it, north or south, is adapted to slave labor; and, beside, every facility would be there afforded to the slave escape from his master. Such property would be utterly insecure in any part of California. It is morally impossible, therefore, that a majority of the emigrants to that portion of the territory south of 36 deg. 30 min. which will be chiefly composed of our fellow citizens from the eastern, middle, and western states, will every re-establish slavery within its limits. In regard to New Mexico, east of the Rio Grande, the question has been already settled by the admission of Texas into the Union.
Should we acquire territory beyond the Rio Grande, and east of the Rocky Mountains, it is still more improbable that a majority of the people of that region would consent to re established slavery. They are themselves, in a large proportion, a colored population; and among them the negro does not socially belong to a degraded race.
The question is, therefore, not one of practical importance. Its agitation, however honestly intended, can produce no effect but to alienate the people of different portions fo the Union from each other, to excite sectional divisions and jealousies; and to distract and possibly destroy the democratic party, on the ascendancy of whose principles and measures depends, as I firmly believe, the success of our grand experiment of self-government
Such have been my individuals opinions, openly and freely expressed, ever since the commencement of the present unfortunate agitation; and of all places in the world, I prefer to put them on record before the incorruptible democracy of Old Berks. I, therefore, be leave to offer you the following statement:
The Missouri Compromise -Its adoption in 1820 saved the Union from threatened convulsions. Its extension in1848 to any new territory which we may acquire, will secure the like happy results. Yours, very respectfully, JAMES BUCHANAN. [LTR]
NNR 73.004 September 4, 1847, October 2, 1847, Col. Louis D. Wilson, obituary
Headquarters, Vera Cruz, Aug. 12, 1847
It is announced to this command, the melancholy intelligence of death of Col. Lewis D. Wilson of the 12th Regiment U.S. infantry, who died on this date
The escort for his funeral will be commanded by the Lieutenant Colonel
commanding, and consist the 1st U.S. infantry, stationed in
the city. The funeral will take place at 5 o’clock, P.M. on tomorrow,
to which all the U.S. navy, citizens and strangers are respectfully invited
to attend.
Col. Wilson, Commandant and Governor of Vera Cruz, was laboring under attack of yellow fever and his life was considered in great danger, at the time intelligence of the death of Col. Wilson, of NC., was received. On the announcement of the death of Col Wilson, the impression became general that it was the Governor of Vera Cruz, and the journals reported.
His friends will be gratified to learn that he has recovered.
Col. Wilson, of North Carolina-The Washington Union says-We learn that, by his will, the late Col. Louis D. Wilson, of the twentieth infantry, bequeathed to the “chairman of the county court of Edgecomb, in North Carolina, and to his successors in office, forty thousand dollars, to be applied to the support of the poor of said county.” This act of charity is touchingly beautiful. Col. Wilson had for years represented the county of Edgecomb in the senate of his native state. When it appeared probable that the requisition for volunteers made by the president on the Governor of North Carolina would not be met, he resigned his seat in the senate, volunteered, and was elected a captain, the highest post to which the voice of men could elevate him-and in that humble rank marched into Mexico. Before marching he made his will, and evinced his gratitude to the constituency which had so long honored him with their confidence, and his charitable regard for his poor neighbors, by this munificent bequest.-There has not fallen in the service of his country a braver or a better man. [LTR]
NNR 73.004 September 4, 1847, movements of troops
The company of Capt. Halle, of the 14th infantry reached Vera Cruz on the 12th inst. was immediately armed and left the same evening for the scene of action. There had been no further arrival from the train, which was deemed a good omen. No further courier has arrived at Vera Cruz from Puebla. One came through on the 12th instant. He left Puebla on the 7th. He reported that the army commenced its march that day agreeably to announcement. [LTR]
NNR 73.004, 005 September 4, 1847, Gen. Mariano Paredes y Arrillaga’s return to Mexico
The Washington Union of Saturday night says: We have seen letters from Vera Cruz, which we received by this evening’s Southern mail. To relate to the two interesting topics of Paredes’ leaving, and of Major Lally’s detachment.
As to Paredes, we regret to state that the Capt. of the British steamer must have been acquainted with his true name and character, as Paredes’ not hesitate to speak freely on board the vessel. He spoke freely about Santa Anna’s want of energy, ability, and principles, and declared that unfortunate Mexico would have to throw herself into the arms of America, or of some European power. (This last statement is suspicious, and confirms what the president stated in his message to congress:)
In any event, it was certain that no change whatever in the Government of Mexico which would deprive Paredes of power could be for the worse, so far as the United States were concerned, while it was highly probable that any change must be for the better.”
Paredes is a monarchist-a friend of a foreign monarch, there is some reason to believe; and his presence in Mexico, if it looks to any change of her rulers. It will remain for the British captain to explain how and why he as a neutral introduced so decided an enemy into our ports at all, and without acquainting us with his character.
It appears from the Vera Cruz letter, that when Paredes entered that city, he was recognized by two or three persons-an inspector at the gate and by Senor Atocha, who attempt justification for his silence upon the lame excuse, that though he was an American citizen, yet he was no spy! The fact is, that Paredes scarcely remained ten minutes in the city, and went off without the knowledge of Col. Wilson, or any of the military officers.
As to Major Lilly, he is reported to have been attacked by about 1,500 guerrillas, whom he bravely resisted. A reinforcement had been dispatched to him about four hundred troops, including a corps of cavalry, with munitions, &c. &c. No later account had been received of him or from him. [LTR]
NRR 73.005 Sept. 4, 1847 guerrilla war
From the Rio Grande. AN arrival at N. Orleans brings advices from Brazos to the 17th ult.
It appears that the roads between Monterey and Camargo are becoming more and more infested with irregular activity and guerrilla bands, and several trials have been attacked.
La Patria published at New Orleans, contains a letter from Havana, which states that four British officers accompanied Parades, but it does not appear whether they had landed at Vera Cruz.
The New Orleans papers brings us accounts from Matamoros of the 18th ultimo, by which it appears that a most lamentable state of things exists along the route to Monterey, for want of a proper force on the road, and that the Mexicans are robbing and slaughtering without restraint everything and everybody that it not strongly protected by a suitable escort.
It also appears that the heavy trains have been halted by order of General Taylor, which the Matamoros Flag attributes to the fact that all idea has been abandoned of that army advancing towards San Luis. The following is the Flag's paragraph on the subject:
"Halting the trains-by an arrival from Camargo, we are informed that an order had been received there from General Taylor, directing a halt of the heavy wagon trains which were being got ready for Monterey, and which it was supposed were intended for the march upon San Luis. We cannot learn whether the dangers of the road or a final resolve not to make any further advance with the army has induced this order; but, from other circumstances, we judge the latter cause to have dictated it."
The subjoined paragraph, from the Picayune, confirms the view of the Flag that the advance upon San Luis is to be abandoned:
"Diversion of Troops-We have a letter from the Brazos, dated the 19th ultimo, mentioning the rumor as current that Gen. Hopping might shortly be expected there, with a considerable body of troops, to embark for Vera Cruz. It is altogether probable that several general officers will be detached from Gen. Taylor's column to repair to the line from Vera Cruz. But a little time will elapse, we trust, before communications will be entirely re-established between Vera Cruz and the capital."
The Matamoros Flag notices several recent attacks upon Government trains by the guerrillas bands, the most serious of which are this abridged by the New Orleans Bee:
A scouting party of twenty seven Texans, commanded by Capt. Baylor, and ordered out by Col. Abbot, commander at Ceralvo, to scout the country between the post and Monterey, fell in with a large body of Mexicans, and were all killed but three. It appears that the Texans visited several ranchos in the neighborhood of the place where the recent attacks had been made upon the trains. They found goods and property captured from the trains, and, the guilt of the Mexican residents being clearly proved, the property was retaken, the dwellings of the guilty burnt and several known desperate characters killed. Captain Baylor was returning with three prisoners, when he was surrounded by some three prisoners, when he was surrounded by some three hundred Mexicans and completely hemmed in. The Mexicans charged upon his little band, killing many of them at the first fire. Three of the party escaped through the chaparral, having been dreadfully lacerated by thorns. When Captain Baylor was last seen he was wounded and unhorsed, but still fighting, and only three of this men were in their saddles-Letters were found among the property in the ranchos, establishing already a connivance between the Alcade of Cerralvo and Canales. The Alcalde has been therefore arrested. Letters from Cerralvo state that the Mexicans are lying in wait to cut off every train between that place and Monterey. A gentlemen writes that hardly a day passes without some person being murdered on the road, and that the Americans know that the enemy are in large force in their immediate vicinity, without the means of acting, except on the defensive. We have, adds the correspondent, no mounted force at the post, not the means of mounting a single man of our own, should an extreme case of necessity require it. It is much to be desired that the Government will soon clearly see the great folly of placing troops along this line with their hands tied, to be made a laughing stock of, with an enemy so contemptible as the Mexicans. [KAS]
NRR 73.005 Sept. 4, 1847 Maj. Lally and guerrillas
From the New Orleans Times, Aug. 22.
MORE NEWS FROM VERA CRUZ.
Particulars of the attack on Major Lally's Train--Reported defeat of our troops by the Guerrillas.
We are also indebted to the Patria for some particulars regarding Major Lally's train, published in the extra of that paper yesterday. A correspondent from Vera Cruz, who signs himself El Jarocho, under date 15th instant, says that Padre Jarauta had returned to that vicinity at the head of 400 guerrillas, and, having effected a junction with two other bands, commanded by Munez and Alberto, attacked Major Lally's train at Tolome.
After killing and wounding a few of our troops, and capturing some wagons, they had taken post at a spot called Puente Chica, near the Puente Nacional. Major Lally, having divided his command into six columns, attacked the position occupied by the guerrillas, with his whole force, but after a sanguinary fight, he was driven back, leaving the ground covered with killed and wounded.
The guerrillas, through want of ammunition, were obliged to abandon their position, which was the occupied by the Americans on the morning of the 13th . This is the key to the truth in this strange story, which is, we believe, nothing but Mexican gasconade; for if our troops still advanced, the account of their defeat cannot be true.
The Patria's correspondent adds that, on the same day, negotiations were opened with the chiefs of the guerrillas for a capitulation of the whole convoy.--The number of wagons lost is said to be very great, and the killed and wounded of our men exceeds 250, reducing the whole command to 400 and odd effective troops. The guerrillas were in great force on this occasion; and it is said that, as they are persuaded that there is a large amount of specie with the train, it will be attacked throughout the whole of its long route, as long as the enemy can bring an effective man into the field.
El Jarocho, at the close of his letter, says information has just arrived that "The Yankees have capitulated." The whole tale is grossly exaggerated, we have no doubt, though we believe that Major Lally's train has had to fight its way onward, against disadvantages with which other preceding trains have not had the contend--such as vastly increased numbers on the part of the assailants, &c. The necessity of forwarding reinforcements from Vera Cruz, sufficiently proves the fact of the command having been vigorously attacked. [JNA]
NNR 73.005 September 4, 1847, September 11, 1847, Col. Lewis Gustavus DeRussy’s regiment
A Tampico letter of the 17th August says that the Louisiana regiment in that place, under command of Col. De Russy, left their homes a few months ago one thousand strong; and of this number not more than two hundred appeared on parade on the 16th. The diseases of the climate had brought about this sad change in the regiment.
A Tampico letter of the 17th August says that the Louisiana regiment in that place, under the command of Col. De Russey, left their homes a few months ago one thousand strong; and of this number not more than two hundred appeared on parade on 16th. The diseases of the climate had brought about this change into the regiment. [LTR]
NNR 73.005 Sept. 4, 1847 arrival of Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny and Col. John Charles Fremont at Saint Louis
Gen. Kearney and suite arrived at St. Louis on Wednesday, the 25th July. Col Fremont and his party were left at the Kansas, and will arrive in the next boat that comes down.
Gen. Kearney left California on his homeward route on the 18th June. He was accompanied by his personal staff and several discharged volunteers, formerly belonging to the Morman battalion, so that his whole party numbered from fifty to fifty five persons.
Col Fremont, being under arrest, and ordered home for trial under charges of disobedience of orders, left California with his party about the same time that General Kearney did, and was but a short distance in his rear during he entire journey, and reached Fort Leavenworth before the General’s departure for St Louis General K. arrived at the fort on Sunday the 22d ultimo, having made the entire trip in the very short space of sixty five days. He chose the south pass for his route, and had many obstacles to encounter, as the snow on the mountains was on the mountains was very deep, and the track in places almost impassable.
Neither party experienced any difficulty from the Indians: on the contrary they were very quiet, and evinced no hostile disposition whatever.
Major Cook and Judge Bryant, who, who were of the returned party, state that all the trains of emigrants now on the way to Oregon, were severally met. They were progressing finely; stood the fatigues of the journey well, and had abundance of provisions.
When Gen. Kearney and his party left California every thing was in a peaceful and prosperous condition.
Col. Mason was left in command, as military Governor of the Territory.
There was quite a fleet off the coast of California, consisting of the 74 gun ship Columbus, bearing the broad pennant of Com. Biddle; the frigate Congress44; the three sloops of war, Portsmouth 20, the Warren 20, and Dale 16, and the storeships Lexington 8 and Erie 8. The latter was to leave in a few days with about 500 men.
The rest of the troops were divided into parties under separate commands, and stationed at different posts throughout the country, where it was deemed most advisable either from precautionary or defensive views.
Nothing has yet transpired as to the specific nature of charges against Lieut. Col. Fremont, but as both the commanding officer and the arrested subordinate have now returned, we shall soon have our curiosities satisfied on this head.
There seems at least, for the present to be no further feeling of resistance towards our army in California. The civil officers elected under the provisional government are executing their duties with Anglo Saxon honesty and directness, and present so new a phase of justice to the native inhabitants that they are delighted. [LTR]
NNR 73.006 September 4, 1847, party from California reports General Steven Watts Kearney in supreme command. Lt. Col John Charles Fremont not under arrest, Com Robert Field Stockton’s flagship at Monterey, ships at San Francisco, affairs of Santa Fe
FROM SANTA FE. The St. Louis Republican of 23d inst. says: “Capt. Fischer’s company of light artillery, consisting of about forty men, and Lieut. Gratiot, of Capt. Weightman’s company, arrived yesterday on the steamer J. J. Hardin. They left Santa Fe on the 29th of June, and met with no obstacles in coming in.”
We are indebted to the same paper for an extra, dated August 23, 12 M., in which we find the following interesting intelligence:
Arrival from Oregon and California. On Saturday evening, Captain T. G. Drake, of he British ship Modeste, (not, however, a bearer of dispatches, as has been stated,) and Mr. John G. Campbell, arrived in this city from Oregon. They left Oregon on the 6th of May, and traveled to Fort Hall in company with a brigade of the Hudson Bay Company. They left Fort Hall with only four men, but overtook another party of seven, and arrived in the settlements with a party of fourteen.
They bring us but little information in addition to that already received from Oregon. Every thing was quite when they left, and the prospect for the season favorable. The Columbia had been so high as to require them to take the southern route. This we presume, they were induce to do from the pleasure and facility of traveling afforded by the force of the Hudson Bay Company.
The British ship Modeste left Fort Vancouver on the 3d, and dropped down the river, on her way to England. She was to proceed, by the Sandwich Islands, home. There were no American ships in the river. The British squadron in the Pacific had not been heard from for nearly eight months prior to their leaving.
Between Fort Hall and Soda Spring, they were overtaken by a party of four men from California. This party left California on the 4th of June. They reported all things quiet when they left. Gen. Kearny was in supreme command, and this party understood to state, most positively, that Col. Fremont was not under arrest up to the time of their leaving. Com. Stockton’s flag ship was at Monterey, and several ships of the United States squadron were at St. Francisco. This party arrived at St. Joseph with Capt. D and Mr. C and may be expected in this city shortly.
Capt. D. and Mr. C. met a great many emigrants and their wagons. They were progressing rapidly and very comfortably, but Mr. Campbell thinks that those for Oregon, because of their number, may suffer a great deal from the want of grass for their stock, on the other side of the mountains. They met the advance party of the Mormon emigrants, and subsequently the main body of about five hundred wagons. The advanced party were hastening on by forced marches, to select a place for a winter encampment somewhere in the vicinity of the Great Salt Lake. A few days pervious to their meeting with the main body, the Mormons and a large party of Pawnees, going out on a hunting expedition, to the Little Blue River, met and held a festival together. Our informants passed the ground where the festival was held, but were fortunate enough (from Mr. Campbell’s long and intimate knowledge of the country) to escape falling in with the Indian party. The Mormons represented themselves as being supplied with at least eighteen months’ provisions. They had with them pigs, poultry, and cattle, and appeared to have an abundance of every thing. They seemed to be harmonious among themselves, but it was understood that those of he church who had reached California, had split, and there was a strong quarrel going on between them. The Californians, and most of the emigrants from the United States, were very decidedly opposed to the settling of Mormons there. It was thought they would resort to force to resist their settlement.
From Fort Hall Capt. Drake and Mr. Campbell met with no incident, except
the loss of a favorite mare of the captain’s, which was stolen whilst
they were encamped at Soux village. Captain Drake returns to England
by the earliest steamer to Liverpool. Mr. Campbell will return to
Oregon this fall, by some of the southern routes. [LTR]
NRR 73.010, Col. 2 Sept. 4, 1847 Central America: Efforts in Honduras to Assist Mexico to Resist the United States
The Spanish paper La Patria, published at New Orleans, says that the state of Honduras has, through its president and two of its conspicuous generals, invited the other states of Central America to combine to aid Mexico in her present struggle with the United States.
This confederacy of states consists of Guatemala, Quesaltenango, Honduras, Nicaragua, San Salvador, Costa Rica, and the Federal District, a small space laid aside for a federal capital. They have separate territorial governments and legislatures. The population of the confederacy is little more than two millions, and its area about one hundred and ninety-six thousand square miles.
PROCLAMATION.
Compatriots! Fortune now rules the destinies of Mexico, and menaces her sons with desolation and extermination. The North Americans have destroyed the interesting population of Vera Cruz-have possessed themselves of their effects, and are now marching upon the capital. We cannot yet know what either calamities will afflict that nation.
They are our brethren; their dangers are ours and their fate awaits us. We should not maintain neutrality, if we can in any manner aid them in their honorable struggle.
The Entire world should know that the Hondurenos are ready to fulfil their duties, of whatever nature they may be.
I will sustain in the state all honorable peace, at all hazards; but I will not do it with the sacrifice of Hondurenian honor, of a disgraced people are fit to but to bear chains, and to suffer with humility the threats and injuries which the stronger impose.
I address myself to day to the governments of the republic, making these observations in order that if it shall be deemed expedient, we may, if it is possible, afford aid, or at least manifest our favorable disposition to their cause and to liberty.
Divisions and internal feuds have ruined our Mexican brothers. Eight millions of inhabitants, of whom htat nation is composed,have been unable to defend themselves against a handful of men, who have seized upon their territory and their property, and annulled their right. What may be the fate of the Central Americans, if we continue divided?
The Honduranians always appear extraordinarily great; they adopted the most effectual means to secure their independence; but nothing has been sufficient to estrange them; respect to the government, and submission to law, they consider as their power, their glory, and their honor.
What happiness does he experience, who rules the destinies of a people adorned by these virtues!!!
JUAN LINDO.
Comayagua, June 1 st, 1847.
The undersigned, generals of division, to the army of Honduras.
Compatriots! Notorious is the anguish of Mexico, and evident is our obligation to co-operate in the defense of that country. Her sons are our brothers, and the cause which they sustain is also ours, that of liberty against conquest.
In compliance with a sacred duty, the proclamation addressed by the president to the Central Americans, was yesterday published, and we wish to express our deference and our desire to co-operate at any time that he may call upon us to aid our neighbor.
Forgotten forever are all those ideas which could divide us. Our interests and our passions are secured to our country. Her triumph is our glory and our honor. She demands our union, and that suffices to cause us to cordially offer it. Union and liberty is our motto! Eternal opprobrium to him who would promote and assist dissensions and conquests.
SANTOS GUARDIOLA.
[DCK]
NRR 73.017 Sept. 11, 1847 BATTLE OF SAN ANGEL-MEXICO INVESTED-PEACE PROPOSED-ARMISTICE CONCLUDED
The arrival at New Orleans on the 21instant, of the steamer Fashion, with Vera Cruz dates to the 7th of August, brings tidings to relieve the anxiety of the public. Our army have as usual, been victorious, and have the "Halls of the Montezums," within their grasp.
Owing to the late hour at which this intelligence reaches us, we have neither time nor space for more than a brief synopsis.
It appears probable from the account, that Gen. Scott met with no opposition on his march until arriving within eight or nine miles of the capital. At El Peñon, a position fortified by Santa Anna, according to the account in the El Sol de Anahuac, the hostile arms first came into conflict. A division of the American army made an onset on the enemy. The main body passing through Guadeloupe, and to their surprise of the Mexicans, appeared suddenly in their rear, and the contest ended.
A regular fight next occurred at a place called San Angel, situated six or eight miles south west of the capital. Gen. Valencia's division of the Mexican army was here totally routed on the 20th . Whereupon the division under the immediate command of Santa Anna retired to the capital where of course the utmost confusion prevailed. It was decided by them and his government to send a flag of truce to Gen. Scott, proposing to treat for peace, offering to receive Mr. Trist's proposals and asking for an armistice until congress could be assembled for that subject. They city of Mexico was now surrounded by the American army. Gen. Worth's division was in near of the city, ready to cut off all supplies from that quarter.
Gen. Scott deciding not to drive the Mexicans to separation, accepting their proposition. AN armistice was concluded. The minister of foreign affairs immediately wrote circulars, which are published in the Mexican Diario Official, calling an immediate session of congress for the purpose of taking the propositions for peace into consideration.
The express which brought the intelligence to Vera Cruz came by the way of Orizaba. The dispatch which he brought reached New Orleans on the opening of the 26th ult.
Since placing the above in type, we find the following copy of it in the N. Orleans Picayune of the September:
Orizaba, August 25th, 1847.
My dear friend-The Mexican mail, which has at last come in, brings the following intelligence, which the copy from the Diario Official del Gobierno. Being of so great importance, I send you this express, courier, who will be with you to morrow about 12 o'clock.
On the 20th two brigades commanded by General Valencia and Santa Anna, went out to attack the Americans near San Angel. Valencia's division has been completely defeated, and Santa Anna after the first recontre, fell back also in disorder to the city.
They immediately after this asked for a suppression of hostilities, and offered to hear the propositions of peace from Mr. Trist.
The next day the minister of foreign relations invited the congress, through the newspapers to meet for that purpose.
These are the great facts which no doubt will bring after them peace.
Your, truly.
F.M. Dimond, Eq.
Another express arrived in Vera Cruz on the 26th with letters containing the same news in substance and the following:
[Translated from the Diario Official del Gobierno ]
On the 20th August Scott's troops, who intended marching on Penon, turned [away from] it and arrived near Tacubaya. As soon as the news was known at Mexico Valencia's division went out to attack the Americans at Los Llanos de San Angel, and was completely routed. Next came Santa Anna with another division, which shared the same fate after some fighting. The Mexicans retreated to the capital in great disorder, and such was the panic created by their defeat that the minister of foreign relations immediately convoked the congress to take into consideration Mr. Trist's proposition. A suspension of arms was demanded by the Mexicans and granted. The Americans are around Mexico, but had not entered the city on the 21 st .
Intelligence reached Vera Cruz on the 27th, that Lieut. David Henderson, of Captain Fairchild's company of dragoons and his party, who were sent out by Captain Wells, on the 15th of August, to apprise Mr. Lally of the approach of reinforcements, were all shot by the guerrillas. There is little or no doubt of the correctness of this sad intelligence.
It is now very generally believed that Captain Besancon's company went up with the train under Maj. Lally.
Maj. Clark, commanding the Castle at Vera Cruz has died of the vomito.
Lieut. Meads, of the 11th infantry, U. States army, died on the 26th at Tampico. [KAS]
NNR 73.020- 021 September 11, 1847, New York “Tribune” and “Courier and Enquirer” as to the course of the Whigs relative to the war
Two of the leading prominent party journals of New York, The Tribune and Courier and Enquirer, are chalking out the course which according to their dictation, the Whig party should pursue in the ensuing congress.
The following article from The Tribune will show their position on the subject:
The subject above discussed (in the Courier and Enquirer of Wednesday), is so immensely important, while the necessity of action thereon is so imminent, that we desire to place it in every practicable light before our readers. Having already submitted to them the views of a leading locofoco journal thereon, we repay the Courier’s courtesy in copying one of our paragraphs by placing its entire article conspicuously before our readers. The Courier’s past and present attitude with regard to annexation and the war, to say nothing of the ability and moderation which characterize the above article, incline us to weight its words thoughtfully. But
But more: If the money is to be raised for another year of warfare in Mexico, it must be raised in great part by loans or measured taxation. Shall a whig house concur in borrowing twenty or thirty millions more for this purpose? By what moral right shall this burden be saddled upon the American People of 1860 or ’80? What will be the nature of their obligation to pay, it no real necessity prompted, and no benefit acerned from this in position? These are questions we should probably answer with the Courier, yet all must see that the number who answer differently is daily increasing; all must feel that there is somewhere a limit to the right of one generation to impose burthens on its successors. (See the last Democratic Review of what we may expect by and by from those who are now pushing the nation deeper and deeper into debt.) If Messers. Polk and Walker will frankly recommended the direct taxation professed to love so well when out of power, we hope congress will accommodate them; not for more loans, and especially loans on mortgage on the public lands, we have slender appetite.
Now as to “conquering a peace” How are we at war? By means of our armies in Mexico. Suppose they were at home again, what would the war amount to? Let the last five or six years of nominal war between Texas and Mexico give answer. Mexico wants nothing, expects nothing of us but that we let her alone. And even if she would not make her forces at long cannon shot these past ten years. Now suppose some stout bully were seen in one of the streets holding down and pummeling a feeble, colic child of ten or a dozen years, and, being remonstrated with by the bystanders, should explain “I am trying to conquer a peace! If I stop pounding and get off him, he will fly in my face and do me serious damage,-what would be the response of true manhood, to say nothing of Christianity?
The following extract from the N.Y. Courier and Enquirer will give their position on the subject.
The Whigs and the War-The Tribune reiterates its instructions to the whigs in congress, as to their duty in regard to the war with Mexico. We publish its article at length this morning, and have but little to say in reply to its positions. The Tribune is wrong, (if our memory serves us,) in saying that the National Intelligencer and Albany Evening Journal took to the lead in discussing the subject, and should therefore screen the Tribune from the charge of dictation. We remember articles in the Tribune as long ago as June setting forth the positions which it now repeats, and on the 4th of August, before it was known that the whigs would have a majority in the house, the Tribune declared in the most emphatic language, that “the whigs generally whom it was acquainted,” would not contribute to prolong or prosecute, in any way, the existing war. Up to that time none of the papers mentioned, so far as we are aware, had set forth their views upon this subject.
This point, however, is of slight importance. The only question of interest is, what ground shall the whigs take in the approaching session? The Tribune insists that they should vote for withdrawing our army instantly from Mexico, and that the only supplies which they grant, should be those necessary for doing this safely and comfortably. To what line they should be withdrawn, the Tribune at present declines to say: but the ground it has uniformly taken that we ought not to occupy any portion of disputed territory, would require them to retreat beyond the Sabine, since Texas is still claimed as one of its provinces by Mexico. But for active operations, for a further prosecution of the war against Mexico, the Tribune insists that the whigs should not vote a single dollar.
Now as far as the Tribune stands upon its ultra peace theories, we have nothing to say, if it believes that the divine commandment against murder, forbids the infliction of death upon any human beings, by any human authority, and under any circumstances, consistency of course, requires it to oppose all grants of men and money for any war, offensive or defensive: and so far as we can understand its argument upon this point, it proves this, if it proves anything. And yet the Tribune professes a willingness to “shed blood” in the defence of our soil, and concedes the necessity of driving the Mexicans from our territory in case of its invasion. Now where does the Tribune find warrant for disregarding the divine mandate, “thou shalt not kill,” in this case, more than in others, that may at least be conceived? If “prompt and through obedience” to the Tribune’s understanding of this command is to be yielded in every case, how dare the Tribune assume the guilt of shedding blood, even to keep the Mexicans at “long cannon shot distance: from the rightful boundary?
Our belief upon this subject is that armies are the Police of Nations; and that war is the harsh, but necessary process of enforcing the demands of justice and of law, upon these who rebel against them. If a constable or a sheriff may rightfully enforce the law against a recusant individual, then may the executive rightfully send and army to coerce a nation, into the performance of acts which she wrongfully and unjustly refuses to do. War is justifiable. And the divine command against under no more prohibits war, than its prohibits killing in self denfence or as a penalty for the prohibited crime. Upon this point, certainly, argument cannot be needed.
The Tribune renews its assertion that we are waging upon Mexico an offensive war, simply because it is waged on Mexican soil. The position seems o us absurd. According to this, if the fortunes of war had been different,-if success had rested with Mexico instead of the U. States, and their armies had penetrated our territory as we have penetrated theirs the character of the war would have been changed. In that case, although we were the first aggressors, as the Tribune contends, we should have been fighting a defensive war; and for such a war the Tribune would vote both men and money. According to this logic, nothing is needed but defeat, to render the war just an defensive! If we had been beaten, we should have been in the right: but our victories have put us in the wrong. This is reversing the maxim that “might makes right,” and establishing the equally untrue and still more absurd maxim, that “might makes wrong,”-that the defeated party is always in the right. If this be the Tribune’s theory, we do not wonder at its former declarations , that our victories have been our disgrace. Nothing seems to us more clearly true than the position, that the character of a war does not depend at all upon its seat, but entirely upon its origin.
The Courier then proceeds a some length to show that this is a defensive and not an offensive war. [LTR]
NNR 73.022 September 11, 1847, tranquility and in California, no war among rival governors, no resistance by the Creoles to Americanization
The news from California and the letters our Monterey correspondent, of which we publish second package to day, represent that remote conquest the present Dorado of the American imagination, in a state of tranquility comparative tranquility. There is no actual civil war raging between the numerous rival governors, naval and military, whom the wisdom of the administration dispatched thither to reign over the new acquisition; and the Mexican creoles, after a various experiment of resistance, seem to have settled down pacified and reconciled to their fate, which is that a speedy denationalization, if not extinction. Their lands are mortgaged to the foreigner; they are too indolent and powerless to redeem them either with the gold of labor or the iron of war; and everyday almost, witnesses the increase of Americans by a new horde of adventurers landing from ships, or descending the precipices of the Sierra Nevada. [LTR]
NNR 73.033 September 11, 1847, comment on European interference in the war
“The Boston Journal says it is the intention of our government at once to resend the order by which the British steamer has hitherto allowed to enter the port of Vera Cruz.” We doubt their doing any such thing, whilst availing of the friendly agency of the British Minister at the city of Mexico towards bringing about a treaty of peace. The Washington correspondent of the Phia. Ledger, who is considered semi-official authority, says:
“I can assure you to-day that all fears and apprehensions of a European intervention, other than the kind of Mr. Bankhead, British minister in Mexico, to bring about reconciliation and a treaty of peace, have completely vanished. Our government has received the most positive assurance from all the powers of Europe that they will leave us to settle our quarrel with Mexico in our own way, though they are all most anxious that our negotiations may be brought to a successful issue. Their commerce, of course, suffers greatly by the war, and by the state of anarchy and uncertainty which is its immediate consequence.” [LTR]
NNR 73.034 September 18, 1847, the pay of the regiment of Col. Alexander William Doniphan
Col. Doniphan’s regiment consisted of 1000 men. When they returned
home each of them received $650 for his pay, horses, &c., and his
land scrip besides, so that the expedition cost in these particulars $
750,000, three-fourths of a million of money. [LTR]
NRR 73.034, Col. 1 Sept. 18, 1847 War With Mexico: Comments On the Armistice
During the week we have received ample confirmation of the brilliant victories achieved in the immediate vicinity of the city of Mexico, by the army under Gen. Scott and of the subsequent conclusion of an armistice, with a view to a treaty of peace, so desirable to all parties. Deeply is it to be lamented that these achievements had to be purchased by the loss of so many brave men. The conflict has been one of the bloodiest of the war. The enemy appear to have been completely outgeneralled in every direction. According to the American accounts received, our forces were outnumbered four to one. The Mexican loss is represented to be in about the same proportion, four to one. The Mexican account varies widely from those figures however. Without stopping to recapitulate, we proceed to place the intelligence before our readers somewhat in the order in which the same reached us during the week.
"As to the result of the negotiations, the Washington Union of the 14th says:-It is useless to speculate, but we cannot forbear adding, that this decisive victory places the capital of the Mexicans at the mercy of our army. The consternation caused by the rout of their army, has induced the enemy to enter into negotiation for peace. The issue of this negotiation is not to be counted on with confidence. The firmness with which the war has been prosecuted has brought the infatuated Mexicans to enter on the discussion of peace. After the panic of the moment is passed, they may again manifest their insane obstinancy in prolonging the war. There should be no relaxation of our efforts, no pause in our preparations, until a peace is conquered, and a ratified treaty shall secure its continuance."
The Union of the 16th, referring to what Mr. Kendall writes to the Picayune on the 25th relative to the disaffection produced in the army by the armistice, says:-"We are unwilling, until we receive fuller and official accounts, to discuss the question, or to cast any slur upon the General, whose military services are receiving the thanks of the people. But this we undertake to say, in relation to the whole subject-that it would be most unfortunate if Mr. Trist should permit the negotiation to be spun out beyond the shortest possible time-say two or three days; for, as we now advised, that course is the very policy which the wily politician Santa Anna would himself prefer for rallying and organizing his means; and, under the same reservation, we may add, it is to be regretted that as long a period as forty eight hours after the negotiation had terminated has been allowed for the resumption of hostilities." [DCK]
NRR 73.034, Col. 1 September 18, 1847 War With Mexico: Order to Passengers Landing at Veracruz
From the letters of Indicador, the correspondent of the New Orleans Times, we extract the following:
Collector's office, Vera Cruz, August 25th, 1847.
NOTICE. Passengers arriving at this prot without passports from the American consul resident at the port they embark from, will not be allowed to leave the vessel, and the master of any vessel permitting such passengers to land, will be fined $500 for each and every passenger so landed, and the vessel held responsible for the same.
U. States flag ship Germantown,
Anto Lizardo, Aug. 18, 1847.
[DCK]
NNR 73.034 September 18, 1847, Com. Matthew Calbraith Perry’s orders for visiting foreign vessels in Mexican ports
GENERAL ORDER, NO 11.
All vessels except army steamers and transports arriving at ports in Mexico held by the U.S. forces are to be visited by a boat from the general ship of the day, or any single vessel of the squadron, that may be in port, for the purpose of tendering the usual compliment of services to foreign vessels of war, and of detecting any irregularities in foreign mail steamers or merchant steamers, whether foreign or American.
It is desireable, when it be practicable, that the boarding officers should be a lieutenant. M.C.Perry, Commanding Home Squadron.
The Effects of these two intimations is exemplified in the following:
“The Spanish brig Martin, Capt. Escalza, arrived her yesterday, from Havana, brings several passengers, some of whom were permitted to land. We are glad to see such measure taken. This is the only way to stop the guerrillas from daily increasing in gangs of robbers that infest the country.” [LTR]
NRR 73.034, Col. 2, Sept. 18, 1847 Death of a guerrilla chief
DEATH OF A guerrilla CHIEF. El Arco Iris, of the 26th ult., says that Don Juan Aburto, the most active of the guerrilla chiefs, after Jarauta, died on the night of the 24th ult., of a fever, at Paso de Ovejas. He had been recently engaged with Major Lally's train, at the Puente National, where he captured six of our wagons. [JNA, DCK]
NNR 73.034 September 18, 1847, difficulty of reinforcements in reaching Maj. Folliot Thornton Lally
GENTLEMEN: The reinforcements, mentioned in a late letter as having been dispatched from this place, in compliance with the urgent call of Major Lally, whose road was blocked up by the guerrillas, returned yesterday afternoon, afternoon, after having suffered the loss of all their wagons, (except one) and five or six men killed. The guerrillas began to harass them near San Juan, a short distance from Santa Fe; but they pushed their way through without loss, until they arrived in sight of the National Bridge. Here they found and eminence fortified and furnished with a piece of artillery, effectually commanding the road, and from which they received a rapid fire of grape.
Defense is said to have been useless or impossible, and after sustaining the fire for some time and losing several mules, which were in their harness, the officers decided upon a retreat, abandoning nine of their wagons to the enemy. These wagons were loaded chiefly with ammunition, and form a most valuable prize to the guerrillas. They also contained a good deal of money, and private baggage belonging to officers and other; but perhaps the most important item of our loss is that of the government dispatches brought here by Col. Wilson, and unfortunately forwarded by this party.
Poor Col. Wilson was very low when the reinforcements started, and feeling that he could no longer indulge the hope which he had at first entertained, of overtaking his command, he insisted, against he advice of his friends, upon sending these dispatches by Capt. Wells to Major Lally. They are supposed to be very important; but whether they are or not, Gen. Scott must await the pleasure of Santa Anna for the enjoyment of reading them. By the way, is it possible that our departments have no cipher by which these important communications could be made without giving their secrets this constant liability to betrayal? But to return to our subject.
As the guerrillas were evidently too well acquainted with each other to suffer a distribution of the spoils to take place without their individual participation, the retreat of our routed party was made without additional loss or molestation. The fellows seemed to want plunder more than blood, and the wagons proved a golden apple to them.
Blame is attached by many to Major Lally for moving forward, after having sent for reinforcements, before they could have reached him. How far his circumstances free him from blame we cannot tell, but the act seems really censurable a seen from this place. He is supposed to have pressed Captain Besancon’s company into the command, as they have been heard from definitely since the left the city several days ago on a scouting excursion. It was probably by their appearance that the train was enabled to pass the bridge, as the enemy would be apt to mistake his company for the van of a large reinforcement, and under that impression to retire. [LTR]
NNR 73.036 September 18, 1847, advances of Gen. Winfield Scott on Mexico City, battles of Contreras and Churubusco
The U. States steamship Mary Kingland, Capt. John Davis, arrived at an early hour this morning.-By her we have received our letters from Mr. Kendall from the 22nd to the 28th of August, all dated from Tacubaua. A courier dispatched by him on the 29th with the first account of the battle fought on that day, was cut off.
From a map and plan of the battle fields before us, we note that they are called the battles of Contreras and Churubusco-so called from field works of the enemy of those names. The victories were decisive, but as far as we can judge from a hasty perusal of a portion of our letters, the proposition for an armistice was made by Gen. Scott-probably at the suggestion of the British Embassy. The report we have hitherto given that the city of Mexico was at our mercy, appears to have been unfounded.
Should peace not follow from the negotiations now pending, another battle must ensue, the enemy having a force of from fifteen to twenty thousand men yet left. But the road appears to be completely open to us, and the city is only two and a half miles from our encampment.
Our entire loss in killed and wounded is short of eleven hundred; that of the enemy is not well known. His loss in killed alone is believed to be fully equal to our entire loss, and it is estimated that at least 3,000 prisoners were taken. The number of his wounded was not ascertained, but is supposed to be very large. Gen. Scott himself received a wound n the leg below the knee, but from the manner in which Mr. Kendall speaks of it, we are led to hope the injury a slight one.
THE BATTLE OF CHURBUSCO. We have at length received account of the great battle which has been fought before the capital of Mexico, from the pens of our own friends. The dispatches, which were expressed from New Orleans, were received by the mail of this evening by the Secretaries of State and of War, and we are enabled to lay some very interesting details of the bloodiest, and perhaps the most decisive and brilliant battle fo the war, before our readers.
We have not heard whether any dispatches have been received from Gen. Scott, nor, indeed, that any letters have been received by the Secretary from the camp. But instead of these, we have been favored with the following letters, received at the war department from an officer at Vera Cruz-the first written by himself, and the other addressed to him by two officers of the army-one a highly distinguished general, who “bore the brunt and battle of the day,” and the other from a captain in the service. These letters give to the whole account the stamp and authenticity of official intelligence. In addition to these, we give copious extracts “from the Sun of Anahuac” (Vera Cruz) of the 1st Sept. derived, also, no doubt, from the most authentic sources.
These events are glorious to the arms of our country. The most important, and perhaps most correct letter which we publish-certainly from an officer of the highest distinction-represents the disparity of the number of troops engaged, and the losses of the respective armies, in the most imposing form-7,000 only of our men actually engaged at the main battle of Churubusco-only 7,000 with two light batteries of eight pieces, in the conflict with 32,000 of the enemy, with heavy artillery and strongly fortified. After two hours of bloody conflict, mainly with the bayonet, we carried everything-the enemy were pursued to the gates of the city.- Our loss (heavy, indeed!) short of 1,000, “the enemy’s 5,000 including many distinguished men.”- This is indeed, a brilliant victory. We congratulate the whole country upon the glory which our arms have attained, and the prospect it promises of peace. An armistice had been concluded for forty eight hours-the particulars of which we give full-in order to open negotiations. We give the names of the Mexican commissioners, at the head of whom stand Herrera himself. Mr. Trist writes, that they had already had two meetings and were to have a third, and perhaps a last interview, on Monday, the 30th August. It would be idle for us to speculate on the ultimate results. Indeed, we have no time to night for that purpose, even if we had all the elements of calculation before us.
But we cannot forbear adding that this decisive victory places the capital of the Mexican at the mercy of our army. The consternation caused by the route of their army has induced the enemy to enter into negotiations for peace. The issue of this negotiation is not to be counted on with confidence. The firmness with which the war has been prosecuted has brought the infatuated Mexicans to enter on the discussion of peace. After the panic of the moment is passed, they may again manifest their insane obstinacy in prolonging the war. There should be no relaxation of our efforts, no pause in our preparations, until a peace is conquered and a ratified treaty shall secure its continuance. [LTR]
NNR 73.038, 039 September 18, 1847, armistice ratified, its terms
THE ARMISTICE. The undersigned appointed respectively-the three first by Maj. General Winfield Scott, commander-in-chief of the armies of the United States; and the two last by his excellency D. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, president of the Mexican republic and commander-in-chief of its armies, met with full powers, which were duly verified in the village of Tacubaya, on the 22nd day of August, 1847, to enter into an armistice, for the purpose of giving the Mexican government an opportunity to receiving propositions for peace from the commissioners appointed by the president of the United States, and now with the American army; when the following articles were agreed upon:
ART. 1. Hostilities shall instantly and absolutely cease between the armies of the United States of America and the United Mexican States, within 30 leagues of the capital of the latter states, to allow time to the commissioners appointed by the Mexican republic, to negotiate.
2. This armistice shall continue as long as the commissioners of the two governments may be engaged on negotiations, or until the commander of either of the said armies shall give formal notice to the other of the cessation of the armistice, and for 48 hours after such notice.
3. In the mean time, neither army shall, within thirty leagues of the city of Mexico, commence any new fortification, or military work of offence or defence, or do anything to enlarge or strengthen any existing work or fortification of that character, within the said limits.
4. Neither army shall be reinforced within the same. Any reinforcements in troops or munitions of war, other than subsistence now approaching either army, shall be stopped at the distance of twenty-eight leagues from the city of Mexico.
5. Neither army, nor any detachment from it, shall advance beyond the line it at present occupies.
6. Neither army, nor any detachment or individual of either, shall pass the neutral limits established by the last article, except under flags of truce bearing the cor