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July
August
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p2c1 Two Days Later From Mexico
Information from Mexico on current events happening in the political and military areas.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p2c2 A Proclamation
Document written by Zachary Taylor describing a state of war aimed to the Mexican government, officially recognizing the war.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p2c4 A Small Mistake
A clerical mistake attributed to the Richmond Enquirer that was erroneous.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p2c4 A Gallant Virginian
Information on the court martial of a Virginia native Capt. Thornton in Mexico.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p2c7 Marine Journal
Information about arrivals and departures at the Richmond docks.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p4c1 Norfolk Whig
Article containing arguments against Senator Webster’s efforts to end hostilities with Mexico.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p4c3 To the Editors
Editorial article concerning a private citizens hope for a speedy war.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p4c4 Later from the Army
Information from Mexico telling the citizens that Camargo had been taken.
August 4, 1846 REv43i28p4c4 The Court of Inquiry
Article containing the information on the trial of General Gaines.
August 7, 1846 REv43i29p1c3 Gen. Patterson
Information relating to command of a regiment.
August 7, 1846 REv43i29p1c4 Adjutant General Jones
Article informing readers on court proceedings in a military.
August 7, 1846 REv43i29p1c4 ExGovernor
Information on troop command.
August 7, 1846 REv43i29p2c2 South Western Virginia
Information pertaining to Southwest Virginia’s commitment to the war in Mexico
August 7, 1846 REv43i29p3c1 Proposition for peace with Mexico
Article relaying thoughts of some members of Congress on settling the issue with Mexico amicably.
August 7, 1846 REv43i29p4c7 Arrival of the Steamer Hibernia
Information on the settlement of the Oregon treaty and aversion of a third U.S.British conflict.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p1c2 Twenty Ninth Congress
Informed the senate of the agreement between the U.S. and Great Britain.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p1c5 Later from the Army
Information on the happenings of the troops in Mexico.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p1c5 General Order
Order given by Gen. Taylor retaining troops past their service time.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p1c6 The Oregon Treaty
Message from the President sent to Congress about the details of the new treaty with G.B. on the issue of Oregon.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p1c5 Editorial
Information on the happenings of the troops after the victory at Camargo.
August 11, 1846 REc43i30p2c1 The Oregon Treaty
Information gathered on the specifics of the treaty.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p2c3 Interesting Statement
Article on the deaths of privates in some localized conflicts throughout Mexico.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p2c4 The Latest From the Army.
Information on troop arrivals in Galveston destined for action in the Mexican theatre.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p2c7 Marine Journal
Arrivals and departures from the port of Richmond.
August 11, 1846 REv43i30p4c2 Medals for the Subalterns
Article concerning the dispersion of medals of recognition to NonCommissioned Officers.
August 14, 1846 REv43i31p2c3 Later from the Rio Grande
Information on the arrival of additional troops.
August 14, 1846 REv43i31p2c2 Disbanded Volunteers
Article detailing the events leading the disbandment of some La. and Al. regiments under Taylor.
August 14, 1846 REv43i31p2c3 The Mexican Question
Article regarding Whig opinions on the Mexican war.
August 14, 1846 REv43i31p2c7 Marine Journal
Arrivals and departures out of the Richmond port.
August 14, 1846 REv43i31p3c1 United States and Mexico
Article concerning the current political scene between the United States and Mexico.
August 14, 1846 REv43i31p4c7 Sword to Captain Duncan
Article on an award to an officer for bravery at the battle of Palo Alto.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p1c1 Defence
Article pertaining to the court martial of Gen. Gaines.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p2c1 Proceedings of the Senate
Information on the state of affairs between Mexico and the U.S.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p2c3 Mexican Items
General interest article about antiwar sentiment in Mexico.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p2c6 The Mexican Question
Article proclaiming Polk’s expert leadership in his handling of both Oregon and Mexico.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p3c1 By Last Evenings Mail
Information on happenings in Mexico.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p3c1 Marine Journal
Arrivals and departures from the port of Richmond.
August 18, 1846 REv43i32p4c4 The Peace Project
News that a delegation was attempting to purchase the land the U.S. desired and to pay Mexico whatever to avoid war.
August 21, 1846 REv43i33p1c2 A letter in the Union
Article blasting other newspapers for not fully endorsing the war effort.
August 21, 1846 REv43i33p1c3 From California
Information on events and independence being claimed in California and an American flag being raised.
August 21, 1846 REv43i33p1c4 Message of the Governor of Oregon
Message from the new governor of Oregon on the recent treaty between the U.S. and G.B.
August 21, 1846 REv43i33p2c1 The Louisiana Volunteers
Reference to the regiment of volunteers from Louisiana.
August 21, 1846 REv43i33p2c4 Battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, Texas
Excerpts detailing events from the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma.
August 21, 1846 REv43i33p3c1 Later from Vera Cruz, By way of Havana
Article describing conditions in the army stationed at Vera Cruz.
August 25, 1846 REv43i34p2c1 The Mexican Crisis
Information on the progress of peace talks with Mexico.
August 25, 1846 REv43i34p3c1 Latest from the Army
Information from Camargo and troop morale.
August 25, 1846 REv43i34p4c2 Highly Important from Havana and Cuba
Article relating Santa Anna’s departure to Vera Cruz and likely battle.
August 25, 1846 REv43i34p4c4 Captain Vinton’s command
Information on troop movement into Mexican territory.
August 25, 1846 REv43i34p4c7 Departure of Gen. Taylor
Article pertaining to Gen. Taylor’s movement to Matamoras.
August 25, 1846 REv43i34p4c5 Message to Mexico
Letter advising readers to the movements of naval forces.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p1c4 From the Union
Information on the trial of Gen. Gaines
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p1c6 Additional Mexican Items
Intelligence on Santa Anna and his troop movements.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p1c6 Act of the Garrison of Vera Cruz
Information on events taking place in Vera Cruz.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p1c7 Letter in the New Orleans Times
Article expressing opinion war will not break out.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p1c6 On Tuesday
Article talking about troop quantities.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p2c3 Mexico
Information on governmental affairs in Mexico
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p2c3 Still Later from Mexico
Article relating to Santa Anna’s restoration to power.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p3c1 Marine Journal
Arrivals and departures from the port of Richmond.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p4c1 Familiar History of the Campaign on the Rio Grande.
Parodies on the events taking place within the Polk administration as well as Mexico.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p4c5 Louisiana Volunteers
Information on the treatment of returning soldiers by the citizens.
August 28, 1846 REv43i35p4c5 News from Santa Fe
Information on Kearney and the latest exploits to the west coast.
September
REv43i36p1c3, September 1, 1846: The Administration and the Whigs
Comments about how the Whigs have unfairly badmouthed the president for protecting
Texas; comments about how peace will come with Mexico
REv43i36p1c5, September 1, 1846: Political John Jones's
Comments about how the Whigs do not like people just because of their stance on
annexation and the war with Mexico
REv43i36p1c6, September 1, 1846: Later From MexicoThe Arrival of the Mississippi
News about Vera Cruz is confirmed; yesterday got to Alvarado for the purpose of
attacking it; news about the movement of Santa Ana; City of Mexico has called
for Santa Anna
REv43i36p2c2, September 1, 1846:Arrival of Santa Anna
The steamer Arab arrived off Vera Cruz on the 16th of August with Santa
Anna on board
REv43i36p2c1, September 1, 1846: The Crisis in Mexico
Report that Paredes has been taken prisoner in Mexico City and Santa Anna is in full
power
REv43i36p2c2, September 1, 1846: Important from Mexico
Letters from Com. Conner's squadron; revolution in favor of Santa Anna has extend to
the city of Mexico; Mexico presently without a government because of the
overthrow of Paredes
REv43i36p2c2, September 1, 1846: Later from Texas
New towns have been taken and the army about to move on towards Monterey; comments
about Col. Clark, Capt. W. L. Ball, Col. Jack Hays and Lieut. Col. Walker, Maj.
Gen. Butler; China in the hands of the Americansdetails on how they did it;
Taylor talks of moving to Monetery; grand parade of all regular troops last
evening; steps towards Monterey are to be taken tomorrow; city of Guenero has
pronounced in favor of the US government; expedition left for the interior;
liquor has been banned in several occupied cities
REv43i36p3c1, September 1, 1846: Later from Santa Fe
Extract from a letter sent from Santa Fe; expected approach of Gen.Kearney; Indians
have been annoying
REv43i36p4c3, September 1, 1846: Navigation of the Colombia
Comments about the rejoicing after the signing of the Oregon Treaty; comments about the
agreement
REv43i36p4c1, September 1, 1846; The Mexican Army
Now volunteers in Mexico to form Paredes' command who will march to met American
troops; new regiment composed of members of the lowest classes in Mexican
society
REv43i36p4c1, September 1, 1846: The Grave of Ringgold
Cutter, Esq, who was an officer in one of the volunteer companies in Mexico recently
visited the grave of Ringgold
REv43i36p4c5, September 1, 1846
Quote taken from the Baltimore Sun about the movement of American troops
REv43i37p1c3, September 4, 1846
Comments about comments made by the Whigs about Scott's prediction for delay in troop
movement
REv43i37p1c5, September 4, 1846: Mexican Natural Antipathies
Mexicans have a holy horror of the Texans
REv43i37p1c5, September 4, 1846: Trophies of Resaca de la Palma
Documents found by our army in the camp of Gen. Arista; some show the instructions given
Mexican military officials; extract from Tornell's direction for the plan of
campaign dated city of Mexico and addressed to Gen. Don Mariano Arista;
extracts from a letter of President Pareds to Gen. Arista
REv43i37p1c4, September 4, 1846
Col. Hairston called the regiment together to see if a volunteer company could be
raised to offer their services to the Executive
REv43i37p1c5, September 4, 1846: From MexicoAdvice from the Gulf Sqaudron
Comments from Com. Conner about the accident that befel the Cumberland; British ships
have lost men to fever; Mississippi was detained; Santa Anna on board the
English steamer from Havana; rumors that a Mexican privateer has been seen of
the Havana; Mexico announced it would adhere to the plan of Vera Cruz; strong
party within the state opposes Santa Anna
REv43i37p1c6, September 4, 1846: Meeting in Fairfax County
Call
for Virginia volunteers has gotten a slow response; comments about how the Rio
Grande is the true boundary of Texas; gives a lists of resolution made at the
meeting
REv43i37p1c6, September 4, 1846
Information
received at Alvarado makes it appear that the Californians were not taken by
the squardon of Com. Sloat; Americans and Mexicans in the area combined and
declared themselves independent; this news confirmed by a Spanish letter
(printing of the letter); Commodore gotten news that a new ministry has been
formed against Paredes; list of ships comprising the American fleet
REv43i37p2c4, September 4, 1846: Interesting from California
Company
of William L. Todd reached Fort Hall without problems; reports of California
having more advantages than Oregon; comments about the traveling of Toddwhere
he is going, what it is like etc. gives a very long description; Todd is the son of Dr. Todd
who lives in Richmond
REv43i37p2c3, September 4, 1846: Correspondence of the Charleston Evening News
Steamboat
McKim sails immediately for New Orleans; Gen. Taylor gone to Camargo; US Schr.
Ewing is here; Van Buren and Howard have gone to Vera Cruz; steamers and
transport are busily engaged in carrying provisions up the river to Camarge;
troops are health
REv43i37p2c3, September 4, 1846
Opponents
will use the growing expenses of the Mexican War against the Democrats
REv43i37p2c3, September 4, 1846: Major Gen. Gaines in Command of the Eastern Division
Gaines
is now in charge of the Eastern Division and has selected NY has his
headquarters
REv43ik37p3c1, September 4, 1846: California
Com.
Sloat took possession of Monterey; Commander Montgomery summed the commandant
of Yerba Buena; Col. Fremont's forces took possession of a frontier post;
dissension among the Californians before the arrival of Sloat
REv43i37p4c3, September 4, 1846: Old "Rough and Ready" in Europe
First
General of Europe has commented on the military actions of Taylor
REv43i37p4c4, September 4, 1846
Rumor
that Santa Anna is a prisoner of war
REv43i37p4c5, September 4, 1846
Major
Thomas T. Fauntleroy has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the second
regiment of Dragoons in the Army
REv43i37p4c5, September 4, 1846: Vindication of Secretary Marcy and the Louisiana Volunteers
Secretary
of War not to blame for the discharging of the Louisiana Volunteers; he did not
make an offer of reenlistment to the men and why it was not done is a mystery
REv43i37p4c5, September 4, 1846: Important from Santa Fe
US
troops under Gen. Kearney push forward with great speed to arrest Mr. Speyer
and seize his goods; Speyer has escaped all his pursuers and reached Santa Fe
REv43i38p1c5, September 8, 1846: The Disbanded Volunteers
The
editor of the Clinton Floridian, a disbanded volunteer himself, replys to the
malignant clamor against the Secretary of War
REv43i38p1c6, September 8, 1846: Capt. A. S. Mackenzie
Rumored
to be placed in command of a steam frigate in the Gulf
REv43i38p1c6, September 8, 1846: Important if Authentic
A
US officer from Gen. Taylor's camp brings important despatches to the
government; Gen. Paredes in charge of 15,000 men and is approaching Saltillo;
Gen. Santa Anna has been made prisoner by Com. Conner
REv43i38p1c6, September 8, 1846
Received
yesterday a letter which states that Taylor will move from Camargo to Monterey;
believes another battle is at hand
REv43i38p1c6, September 8, 1846: From Texas
Cotton
crop in Texas is unfavorable; time for the congressional elections in Texas;
REv43i38p1c6, September 8, 1846: Those Despatches
Mr.
Habersham has been bearing letters of Mr. Buchanan to Commodore Conner and the
Mexican Secretary of War, he has been detained here waiting for a ship headed
to Vera Cruz
REv43i398p1c6, September 8, 1846: Correspondence of the New Orleans Delta
Weather
report; report of troop movement;
REv43i38p2c4, September 8, 1846
Appears
to be a general belief in the army that a large force of Mexican was
concentrating about Monterey and that Paredes would have twenty thousand men at
that place; heave intelligence from Vera Cruz of the revolutionary rising
against Paredes
REv43i38p2c4, September 8, 1846
Letter
received from Capt. N. G. Coste that he has on his ship a man with despatches
for Vera Cruz
REv43i38p4c2, September 8, 1846: Six Days Later from the Army
Report
of troop movement; report on the number of enemy gathering near Monterey;
comments on the health of the army
REv43i38p4c3, September 8, 1846: From Port Lavacca
Comments
on the movement of ships
REv43i38p4c3, September 8, 1846: Later from Yucatan
Report
on the outbreak that occurred at Valladolid
REv43i38p4c5, September 8, 1846: Brevets
Comments
about the remarks made about Gen. Worth's supposedly illtreatment by the
President
REv43i39p1c5, September 11, 1846: Letter from Gen. Taylor
Taylor
expressing is gratitude for the resolution passed in NY to allow more troops
for the army
REv43i39p2c1, September 11, 1846: Flat Contradiction
Comments
made by a Whig paper about the peace treaty termsRE is proving that there
comments are a contradiction to what has really been agreed to
REv43i39p2c5, September 11, 1846: From HavanaFour Days Later
Don
Juan Morales to take possession of the citadel; Gen. Paredes marching towards
the northern frontier is in favor of Santa Anna; two or three vessels of war at
Sacrificios;
REv43i39p4v1, September 11, 1846: Troops for the Rio Grande
Brig
Saldana leaving for Brazos Santiago and she carries troops from Fort McHenry
REv43i39p4c1, September 11, 1846: Texas Delegation
Texas
delegation arrived with intelligence papers of the loss of Midshipman Pillsbury
REv43i39p4c3, September 11, 1846: Important from Santa Fe
Preparations
to meet Gen. Kearney; 7,000 Mexican troops said to be in reserves; report on
Mexican spies; exposed condition of American supplies; Indians attacking
Government wagons and trading parties; volunteering against the Americans
REv43i39p4c5, September 11, 1846: Important Rumor
Peace
with Mexicoterms settled with Santa Anna at Havan
REv43i39p4c5, September 11, 1846: Santa Fe Taken without the Firing of a Gun
Report
that Gen. Kearney took Santa Fe without the firing of a gun
REv43i40p1c3, September 15, 1846
Loss
of the fine brig Truxton; mystery of Santa Anna's movements; belief that the
Mexicans will not reject US peace
REv43i40p1c4, September 15, 1846: Important from Mexico
Details
about the loss of the brig Truxton and her crew being taken as prisoners of
wargives the reports of the incident from several different papers
REv43i40p2c2, September 15, 1846
Failure
of the St. Mary's of Tampico; more comments about the loss of brig Truxton;
REv43i40p2c3, September 15, 1846: The Advance
Regulars
have departed for the interior with the exception of one regiment; Taylor still
at Camargo; Twiggs moving to Monterey; Worth continuing his march to Monterey
REv43i40p2c3, September 15, 1846: Gen. Twiggs Command
Comments
on who Twigg has under his command
REv43i40p2c3, September 15, 1846: Gen. Worth's Command
Comments
on who Worth has under his command; comments also on the movement of the
Mexican troops
REv43i40p2c5, September 15, 1846: Latest Intelligence from the Army
Report
of the happenings from the Rio Grande; news from Col. Hay's regiment; riot and
bloodshed amongst the volunteers on a steamboat laying at an encampment
opposite Burita; particulars of the blowing up of the Enterpriselist of killed
and wounded
REv43i40p3c1, September 15, 1846: News from the Army of the West
General
Kearney left Bent's Fort; comments about how the Mexicans are trying to fortify
REv43i40p4c3, September 15, 1846
Citizens
of Baltimore have presented to Lieut. Randolph Ridgely of the Flying Artillery
a sword for his gallant performance on the Rio Grande
REv43i41p1c3, September 18, 1846: Vindication of Mr. Secretary Marcy and the Louisiana
Volunteers
Secretary
of War was not to blame for the matter of discharging the Louisiana volunteers
REv4341p1c4, September 18, 1846
Particulars
the correspondence of the Journal of Commerce about the loss of the brig
Truxton; extract from a letter received here about the loss of the Truxton
REv43i41p1c5, September 18, 1846: State of Things in Mexico
Much
depends on the course of action Santa Anna will take; summary of the manifesto
of Gen. Santa Anna; Santa Anna left Vera Cruz on 18th of August for
Mexico City; letter of Gen. Ampudia addressed to the Mexican Secretary of War
speaks of Gen. Gaines march upon Monterey; Paredes prisoner in Mexico City
REv43i41p1c6, September 18, 1846: Major General Gaines
Character
letter to the Baltimore Patriot that General Gaines has selected NY has his
headquarters of the Eastern Division of the Army
REv43i41p1c6, September 18, 1846: From the Army
Gen.
Wroth established a new depot in Serralvo; comments about the movement of other
troops; rumor that Paredes has been taken prisoner confirmed;
REv43I31p1c7, September 18, 1846: Revolution in Tabasco
Garrison
stationed at San Juan Bautista declared against the Government of Paredes and
in favor of Santa Anna; quote of a document by the commandante General of the
Department of Tabasco to its Inhabitantshoping for no violence or disorder
REv43i41p1c7, September 18, 1846: From the Camp
Despatches
have been received about the movement of the army; no allusion is made to Col.
Harney; seems Taylor is better acquainted with his movements than the Mexicans;
Taylor sent forces forward
REv43i41p2c2, September 18, 1846
VMI has furnished several officers of volunteers for the Rio Grande
REv43i41p2c4, September 18, 1846
No shadow of blame rests upon the commander of the Truxton for the loss of the
vessel
REv43i1p2c4, September18, 1846
Com.
Perry is on his way to the Gulf to take command of the squadron in place of
Com. Conner
REv43i41p2c3, September 18, 1846
Remarks
made by Boston Whig leadershow will southern Whigs take such comments?
REv43i41p2c6, September 18, 1846: Well Merited Honors
G.
W. Reeder has gone to Headquarters to gives medals to noncommissioned officers
who have distinguished themselves in the battles of the 8th and 9th
of May; medals given to Taylor by Mr. Reeder in the presence of several general
officers
REv43i41p4c1, September 18, 1846: The War and San Juan de Ulloa
Not
likely that attacking Vera Cruz will be successful; armistice is asked for by
the Mexican Government; how can Mexico can continue with this war? ; Santa Ana
made a speech to the citizens and soldiers of Vera Cruz
REv43i41p4c1, September 18, 1846: Medical Department of the Army
Army
Medical Board in session in NY has recommended a list of people for appointment
to the medical stafflists the names of those suggested
REv43i41p4c1, September 18, 1846
Event
are bright on the coast of California; Monterey is certainly taken, and Guimas
and it is certain that the Yerba Buena was summoned by Capt. Montgomery and is
believed to have been taken without resistance troops were being paid off some
months in advance and that they would sail for the Pacific
REv43i41p4c4, September 18, 1846
Two
of Capt. S. T. Mason's Company of the Mounted Regiment have sailed from Fort
McHenry to the seat of war; violent carried the vessel of course
REv43i41p4c3, September 18, 1846: Pleasures of Soldiering!
Report
from a letter about the rich fields of Mexico for lovers of entomology and
natural history
REv43i42p1c1, September 22, 1846: Battles of the 8th and 9th of May
Poem
REv43i42p2c2, September 22, 1846: Important from Mexico
A
ready response has been given to the President's proposal of peace; comments about
Santa Anna's ability to bring about peace; believe peace is at hand
REv43i42p2c4, September 22, 1846: Very Late from Mexico
A
new Mexican Ministry has been formedlist of who has what position; Mexico
making no preparations to carry on the war; squadron are blockading Vera Cruz;
more details about the crew of the Truxton and their surrender; comments about
the squadron after the loss of the Truxton
REv43i42p2c4, September 22, 1846: The Pensacola Gazette of the 12th
US
Frigate Potomac arrived here on Wednesday; capture of a Bremen Brig by the US
Schr. Flirt; Mexico agreed to received a minister and treat; doubt the
correctness of the Pensacola in relations to the capture of the Bremen Brig
REv43i42p2c5, September 22, 1846: Professorship Accepted
Lieut.
Gilhem of the US Army accepted a professorship at VMI; he was in the battles of
May 8th and 9th on the Rio Grande
REv43i42p3c1, September 22, 1846
Report
on the movement of ships; letter received from the Capt. Of the Truxton;
abortion of the plan for Alvarado; court martial onboard the St. May's convened
for trying a seamen for striking a first Lieutenant
REv43i42p4c5, September 22, 1846
Gen.
Worth on movement for Serralvo; Duncan a hero for the battle of Palo Alto;
comments about the Mexican army Taylor has despatched orders to stop Col.
Harney
REv43i42p4c5, September 22, 1846
No
truth in claim that Santa Anna had a passport which allowed him to land at Vera
Cruz; government of the US can hardly wait until they hear the response of the
Mexican government about the letter of peace sent to them
REv43i42p4c7, September 22, 1846: Gen. Gaines
Gen.
Gaines appointed to be in charge of the Eastern Division of the Army
REv43i42p4c6, September 22, 1846
Letter
published which gives comments about Taylor's wish to advance on Monterey;
comments about the inhabitants of Monterey
REv43i43p1c4, September 25, 1846: Mexican Affairs
Mexican
government has rejected the offer of peace comments taken from other newspapers
about this; hope the war to carry on with vigor
REv43i43p1c5, September 25, 1846: Another Sword to Lieutenant Ridgely
Citizens
of Howard District resolved to present a sword to Lieut. Ridgely for his
conduct on the Rio Grande
REv43i43p1c5, September 25, 1846: Despatches by the Princeton
Mexican
government refuses peace
REv43i43p1c6, September 25, 1846: The Journal of Commerce has the following:
Nothing
has occurred since the arrival of Santa Ana; reported that the Mexican
government has refused peace with US
REv43i43p1c6, September 25, 1846
General
Almonte, Crescencio Rijon and Crescencio Boves have arrived in Mexico City;
summary of an address given by Santa Ana; believed Santa Ana will put his
troops in motion; no mention of Paredes
REv43i43p2c4, September 25, 1846
No
matter what stance Polk takes on the war the Whigs will complain
REv43i43p2c4, September 25, 1846: Mexico and her Rulers
Brief
sketch of past Mexican presidents
REv43i43p2c5, September 25, 1846
Polk
elected to annex Texas and settle the Oregon question and these thing he has
done
REv43i43p2c5, September 25, 1846
General
opinion is that Mexico must listen to US offer of peace
REv43i43p2c5, September 25, 1846
US
will pursue a path of vigorous war
REv43i43p2c5, September 25, 1846: Late and Important
Report
of the capture of Californiadetails
REv43i43p2c6, September 25, 1846: Acts of the Twentyninth Congress of the US
Annexation
of Texas
REv43i43p3c1, September 25, 1846
The
reply from Mexico that she would seek English mediation if US withdrew from its
territory was rejected
REv43i43p3c1, September 25, 1846: Despatches to Com. Sloat
Officer
on the Princeton with despatches for Com. Sloatthis was reported but a
mistake; no counter orders have been given to Com. Sloat;
REv43i43p4c2, September 25, 1846: Foreign Intelligence
Comments
made in the House of Commons about the conflict between the US and Mexico
REv43i43p4c4, September 25, 1846: Mexican Answer
Puzzled
by the Mexican reply to the offer of peace; she rejected it but then sent a
messenger with despatches to Washington; comments about the movement of ships;
Santa Anna in Mexico City; comments about the demands made by Mexico
REv43i44p1c4, September 29, 1846: The Administration and General Taylor
RE has expressed its' respect for General Taylor, which is a response to an article quoted from the Philadelphia north American
REv43i44p1c7, September 29, 1846: From the Army
Volunteer
jumped overboard; gale caused the schr. Edward Tilletson to blow ashore near the
Sabine; colonel Harney has been arrested and charged with disobeying orders;
Taylor crossed the San Juan; number of US troops between Camargo and Monterey;
number of sick; Gen. Patterson in command of all the country from Camargo to
the mouth of the river; Gen. Butler in command of the lower country; Mexicans
not allowed to barter with Americans; Taylor left Camargo for Monterey
REv43i44p2c2, September 29, 1846: Our Mexican Affairs
Comments
about the current negotiations with Mexico; what should happen now that they
have refused peace
REv43i44p2c6, September 29,1846
Horse
taken to Rocky Mountain for the purpose of being sent to Taylor as a present
from Col. William Winn of Arkansas
REv43i44p3c1, September 29, 1846: Congress of the US
Chap.
16 an act providing for the prosecution of the existing war between the US and
Mexico; Chap. 17 act providing for the increase of the army; Chap. 20 act
providing for the fortification of certain areas
REv43i44p4c2, September 29, 1846: Democratic Meeting in the City of Norfolk
Resolved
to support the annexation of Texas; settlement of the Oregon question with
England has been most favorable for the US; support for the war with Mexico
because of Mexico's transgressions against the US; also listed other resolutions
decided upon by the democrats at the meeting
REv43i44p4c1, September 29, 1846: Arrival of the Prize Ship
More
details about the loss of the Truxton from Lieut. Berryman who was on the brig
REv43i44p4c4, September 29, 1846
What
benefit would mediation bring in the situation with Mexico?; the US is able to
address her own problems
REv43i44p4c4, September 29, 1846
The
US army should continue the vigorously if it wants to come to terms with
Mexico; so far the US has been to nice about things; our military should
enforce the rules of war
REv43i44p4c3, September 29, 1846: Arrival of US Brig Washington
List
of men brought on the ship from the Rio Grande
REv43i44p4c4, September 29, 1846: A Touch of Romantic and Transcendental
Comments
about remarks made by Whigs about the War with Mexico and how it is a sore for
the administration
REv43i44p4c4, September 29, 1846: British Mediation
Reprint
of an article from the Union about British Mediation; if England can bring
Mexico to negotiations why should the US object to it, since the US has failed
to be able to do so?; but England cannot intervene because the US knows its
rights and wrongs and can address them and we must be left to ourselves to
judge
REv43i44p4c5, September 29, 1846: Affairs in Mexico
Gen. Paredes still a prisoner; Gen. Bravo is treated by newspapers with much regard;
Gen. Sales as stated that he did not do his will but only what was needed at
the time; Gen. Morales named commandant in California; various proclamations have
been issued to encourage people to take part in the war; number of states which
have declared revolution; Santa Ana sends troops towards Monterey, New Mexico
and California and summons the Congress; reprint of the address given by Santa
Ana to the army at Vera Cruz
October
REv43i45p2c13, October 2, 1846: Latest from the Army
News, military correspondence, and letters
REv43i45p2c3, October 2, 1846: The Mexican News
REv43i45p2c4, October 2, 1846: The Seat of War
News about Monterey
REv43i45p4c6, October 2, 1846: Rumored Capturer of Santa Fe Indian Outrages
REv43i46p1c4, October 6, 1846: Major General Jesup left for Mexico
REv43i46p1c57, October 6, 1846: Capture of Santa Fe!
Detailed account and story of the capture of the city
REv43i46p2c4, October 6, 1846: General
Kearney's proclamation
Annexation of New Mexico
REv43i46p2c4, October 6, 1846: Our Mexican Relations in Europe
REv43i46p2c4, October 6, 1846: General
Kearney
Description of the General and his career
REv43i46p4c2, October 6, 1846: Mexico California
Course of war and California territory
REv43i46p4c2, October 6, 1846: Mexico
News
REv43i46p4c2, October 6, 1846: From Yucatan
Claiming its independence
REv43i46p4c5, October 6, 1846: Santa
Fe Taken
Brief article
REv43i47p1c4, October 9, 1846: Civilization in Santa Fe
REv43i47p1c56, October 9, 1846: General Kearney
Concerns over General Kearny overstepping his boundaries and threatening
the presidency
REv43i47p2c2, October 9, 1846: The Charleston Mercury.
REv43i47p2c2, October 9, 1846: Troops for Mexico
REv43i47p2c4, October 9, 1846: The 'Lone'
Star
Rejoicing over the annexation of Texas
REv43i48p1c7, October 13, 1846: Later from the Army Capture of Monterey
General Taylor's capture of Monterey
REv43i48p2c1, October 13, 1846: General Kearney and New Mexico
REv43i48p3c34, October 13, 1846: Last Evening's Mail Glorious News from the Army! Capitulation of Monterey after Three Days Fighting
REv43i48p4c1, October 13, 1846: Major
Brown and Lieut. Page
Account of how Major Brown was wounded
REv43i48p4c23, October 13, 1846: A Tempest in a Tea Pot
REv43i49p2c13, October 16, 1846: Our Army
in Monterey
Description details troop movement and Taylor's orders
REv43i50p1c34, October 19, 1846: Old Rough
and Ready
Defending the actions and character of Zachary Taylor
REv43i50p1c5, October 19, 1846: Troops for Mexico
REv43i50p1c56, October 19, 1846: The Battle for Monterey
REv43i50p1c6, October 19, 1846: Lieut. Col. Duncan
REv43i50pi1c67, October 19, 1846: Very
Important News from Mexico
Latest intelligence from the army
REv43i50p2c2, October 19, 1846: Captain Thornton, US Dragoons
REv43i50p2c56, October 19, 1846: The Victory at Monterey
REv43i50p4c1, October 19, 1846: From Yucatan
REv43i50p4c2, October 19, 1846: Pressure on General Scott for Progress in Mexican War
REv43i50p4c4, October 19, 1846: Important from New Mexico
REv43i51p1c35, October 23, 1846: The
Laws of War
On the rights of the conquest
REv43o51p4c45, October 23, 1846: Incidents at Monterrey
REv43i51p4c56, October 23, 1846: Excited Attack at Vera Cruz
REv43i52p2c2, October 27, 1846: Changing Places
REv43i52pc5, October 27, 1846: Later from Vera Cruz and Brazos Santiago
REv43i52p4c13, October 27, 1846: Late
from the Battlefield
Lithograph map/picture of Monterey city description of Battle
REv43i52p4c6, October 27, 1846: Viva
La Bagatelle
Commenting on Kearney's address to Santa Feans
REv43i53p1c23 October 30, 1846: News from
the Army
Troop movement and activity
REv43i53p1c37 October 30, 1846: Eleven
Days Later from the Army
The Capitulation; Captain Walker; The Relative Forces, Losses; Matamoros;
Caitain Bragg's Battery; Terms of Capitulation; Evacuation of Monterey;
From the Pacific
REv43i53p3c3 October 30, 1846: Last Evenings Mail
REv43i53p4c1 October 30, 1846: The
Storming of Monterey
A poem
REv43i53p4c1 October 30, 1846: Miscellaneous Late and Interesting from Our Pacific Squadron, United States Calvary
REv43i53p4c45 October 30, 1846: Siege
of Monterey
Letters and accounts from the battle
November
REv43i54p1c3,
November 3, 1846: The Enquirer, Richmond VA. Letter to the Editor
Monday Morning, November 2, 1846 (by Superior CourtJudge P.N. Nicholas)
Calls for support of the President and Country during the TexasMexican War.
REv43i54p1c4,
November 3, 1846: Letter to the Editor
Santa Anna is using his own wealth to fund the War. Troops begin to fortify
the City of Mexico against the U.S. Reports from Vera Cruz say that
Ampudia resigned from the army command.
REv43i54p1c7,
November 3, 1846: From Mexico, News from Vera Cruz
The first brigade of cavalry left Mexico City on September 24th
headed for Monterey. Santa Anna followed with the National Guard the
next day.
REv43i54p1c7,
November 3, 1846: Capture of a Mexican Brig of War
Malek Adhel, the Mexican Brigadier General of the war, was captured at the
port of Mazatlan.
REv43i54p1c7,
November 3, 1846: Hancock Expedition
An 11th infantry was raised to stop the mob in the city of Nauvoo.
The troops elected Colonel Robert Allen as Captain. John Connelly and
R.W. Diller were elected 1st and 2nd Lieutenant.
REv43i54p1c7,
November 3, 1846: Letter to the Editor, Washington, Oct. 30, 1846
There have been no new dispatches from the army, the only correspondence
the media has been able to obtain are personal letters from the soldiers.
These letters seem to support the rumor that the Mexicans are preparing
for another battle.
REv43i54p1c7,
November 3, 1846: General Taylor and General Butler
A regular officer just returning from Monterey gives an interview concerning
the rumored problems between General Taylor and General Butler. The
officer states that he supports both Generals and he is not aware of
any discord between them.
REv43i54p2c1, November 3, 1846: Richmond,
VA, Tuesday Morning, November 3, 1846
Article argues against the New Orleans Tropic (a Whig newspaper) for stating
that General Taylor would be superseded and General Butler would be
appointed the chief commander of the army.
REv43i54p2c2,
November 3, 1846: The Siege of Monterey
Accounts from the capture of Monterey and a depiction of the landscape.
REv43i54p2c3, November 3, 1846: The Siege of Monterey
(From the Baltimore Patriot)
Includes letters from the Baltimore Battalion and an update of the wounded
and killed.
REv43i54p2c4, November 3, 1846: The Destructive
Storm in the Gulf (From the Union) Key West, Oct. 14, 1846
Tornado hits the town of Key West.
REv43i54p2c5,
November 3, 1846: Late F[r]om Havana
Description of the "disastrous hurricane" that hit Havana.
REv43i54p3c1, November 3, 1846: Marine
Journal
A record of the ships that sailed from and arrived at the Port of Richmond.
REv43i54p3c3,
November 3, 1846: By Last Evening's Mail [Correspondence of the Baltimore
Sun.] Washington, Oct. 31, 1846
Correspondence states that peace has been achieved in Mexico but he
expects that there will be another call for troops. On no terms will
the U.S. Government give back Upper California and New Mexico.
REv43i54p3c3,
November 3, 1846: An Honored Baltimorean
General Taylor anoints Captain Miles, of Baltimore, as acting Governor of
Monterey.
REv43i54p4c1,
November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous [from the New Orleans Picayune, October
23.] Arrival of Commodore Sloat
Commodore Sloat arrives from the Pacific bringing news from Havana.
REv43i54p4c2,
November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous, The Galveston
The steamship, Galveston, was to leave November 2nd for Brazos
Santiago by orders from General Taylor.
REv43i54p4c2, November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous,
Good Reasoning [from the N.O. Bullentin]
Commodore Sloat condones Commodore Jones' actions at the Rio Grande.
REv43i54p4c4, November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous,
Baltimore, October 29, 5 P.M., Reinforcements
The steamship Massachusetts leaves with troops for Brasos.
REv43i54p4c1, November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous,
Loss of Revenue Cutter Morris
An account of the wrecking of the revenue cutter Morris during the hurricane.
REv43i54p4c1,
November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous, From Havana
News from the steamship Perry from Vera Cruz.
REv43i54p4c4,
November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous, Military
Troops at Fort Moultrie were detained from their march to Mexico in
order to acquire a shipment of clothing.
REv43i54p4c4, November 3, 1846: Miscellaneous,
Conciliating the Enemy [from the New Orleans Times, Oct. 21]
Argues against the government policy of conciliating, stating that the procedure
allows Mexicans to spy on U.S. military.
REv43i54p4c4, November
3, 1846: Miscellaneous, Duels, Affairs of Honor
Expressing personal opinions of the war and the support for the military
leaders begins to spark the act of dueling.
REv43i54p4c6, November
3, 1846: Major P.N. Barbour [N.O. Delta]
Correction of an article about the death of Major P.N. Barbour. Barbour was
actually from the 3rd regiment of infantry.
REv43i54p4c3,
November 3, 1846: The Storming of Monterey
An account from General Worth's division at Monterey.
REv43i55p2c1,
November 6, 1846: Richmond, VA, Friday Morning, November 6, 1846
Whig Justice
Article argues against an article published by the Whig press, stating that
General Taylor marched on the City of Mexico in a despite attempt to
fight off the determined Mexicans.
REv43i55p2c6, November 6, 1846: Marine Journal
A record of the ships that sailed from and arrived at the Port of Richmond.
REv43i55p2c6, November 6, 1846: James River
Canal, Richmond, November 5
A record of the ships that sailed from and arrived at the James River Canal.
REv43i55p3c4,
November 6, 1846: To the Editor of the Union [from the N.Y. Telegraph]
Colonel Burr travels to Paris with useful information for invading Mexico
in hopes that France will aid the U.S.
REv43i55p3c4,
November 6, 1846: Letter to the Editor
The Editor of the Courrier des Etats Unis stated he had seen a letter stating
that Santa Anna left Havana with several officers including Narciso
Lopez, a distinguished Christino officer.
REv43i55p3c4,
November 6, 1846: To the Editors of the Enquirer: Washington City,
Nov. 1st 1846. An Evening Visit to the White House [written
by A Virginian]
Several officers were invited to the White House, where they were entertained
by Mrs. Polk.
REv43i55p4c3,
November 6, 1846: The Army of Chihuahua [from the New Orleans Picayune,
Oct. 27]
General Wool spits his army. Half of the army left San Antonio for Presido.
The other half were divided up under Colonel Harding and Colonel Churchill.
A few companies were also left to defend Bexar.
REv43i55p4c3,
November 6, 1846: Letter From Gen. Butler Particulars of His Charge
His Wound Bravery of His Troops Abandonment of His Attack, & c.
General Butler describes the battle at Monterey and the hardships the soldiers
had to overcome.
REv43i55p4c5, November
6, 1846: The Mexican War
The article argues against the Republican Party for calling the TexasMexican
War "unjust."
REv43i55p4c6,
November 6, 1846: Capt. Stewart [Baltimore Sun]
Captain Stewart is promoted after the death of Colonel William H. Watson.
REv43i55p4c5, November
6, 1846: Et Tu Brute!
The Article attacks the Whig press for not expressing outrage against Brigadier
General Governor Kearney's actions.
REv43i55p4c5,
November 6, 1846: Washington, 1st November 1836 [Correspondence
of the Baltimore Sun]
General Kearney's dispatches have been received. Kearney finds the people
of New Mexico willing to cooperate and excited about being U.S.
citizens.
REv43i55p4c3,
November 6, 1846: The Army of Chihuahua [from the New Orleans Picayune,
Oct. 27]
Major M.C.M. Hammond's interview provides news from the Rio Grande after
his arrival.
REv43i56p1c4,
November 10, 1846: Monday Morning, November 9, 1846, Maj. Gen. WM. O.
Butler
The article attacks the N.O. Delta for not defending General Butler against
his charges. General Butler was charged with exposing his troops to
Mexican fire and overstepping his bounds by storming the enemy.
REv43i56p1c4,
November 10, 1846: Deaths of Col. WM. S. Fisher and Capt. Francis S.
Early
Colonel William S. Fisher and Captain Francis S. Early both died at Galveston,
Texas on October 26th of disease.
REv43i56p1c7,
November 10, 1846: Letter to the Editor, From Vera Cruz [from the N.O.
Picayune]
General Santa Anna is about to leave Mexico for San Luis Potosi, there
he plans to take over the command of the troops. Mexicans are constantly
worried about funding the War.
REv43i56p1c7,
November 10, 1846: Letter to the Editor, From Mexico [from the New Orleans
Delta, Nov. 2]
The Diario del Gobierno states that if wealthy Mexicans do not contribute
to the funding of the war citizens know where they live and will obtain
the money themselves. The clergy consented to mortgage their property
for $2,000,000 in support of the war.
REv43i56p1c7,
November 10, 1846: Later From Monterey [from the New Orleans Tropic,
Oct. 31]
The arrival of the steamship Palmetto, Lewis brings news from Galveston.
REv43i56p2c5,
November 10, 1846: English Views of the Mexican War [from the London
Spectator]
Britain fears the U.S. theology of Manifest destiny and calls for defense
of Mexico.
REv43i56p2c6,
November 10, 1846: Marine Journal
A record of the ships that sailed from and arrived at the Post of Richmond.
REv43i56p2c1,
November 10, 1846: Marine Corps
Lists the money supplied by the government for certain items for Marine Corps.
REv43i56p3c1,
November 10, 1846: Poetical
A poem dedicated to the memory of the soldiers that fell at the Rio Grande
and Monterey.
REv43i56p3c1, November 10, 1846: Miscellaneous,
Latest From Havana
An update of the hurricane that struck Havana on the 10th and
11th of October.
REv43i56p3c1,
November 10, 1846: Miscellaneous [from the Charleston Mercury]
Accounts of the conquest of California and New Mexico, as well as an update
of the positions of General Wool and General Taylor.
REv43i57p1c4,
November 13, 1846: Northern Democrats and Northern Whigs
Accuse the Whig Party of being based on Northern principles and questions
the arguments of abolition.
REv43i57p1c6, November
13, 1846: General Ampudia's Address
General Ampudia's address following Mexican defeat at Monterey.
REv43i57p1c7, November 13, 1846: From the Camp
at Monterey
Dispatches from General Taylor from the 6th, 11th,
12th, and 13th of October.
REv43i57p2c5,
November 13, 1846: General Butler [from the Union]
An account from a former soldier, who assures that the rumor of discord between
General Taylor and General Butler, is false.
REv43i57p2c4, November
13, 1846: Yucatan [N.O. Commercial Times]
Santa Anna persuaded the Yucatan Legislature to rejoin Mexican territory
but the people did not fall for his trick.
REv43i57p2c6,
November 13, 1846: Attacks on Gen. Butler
The article attacks the Whig press for condemning the actions of the government
and the army.
REv43i57p2c1,
November 13, 1846: Later From the Army! [from the N.O. Picayune, Nov.
3]
The article provides accounts of the battle of Monterey and provides information
about the officers that lost their lives during the battle.
REv43i57p4c1,
November 13, 1846: Monterey, Mexico, Oct. 16, 1846
General Wool crossed the Rio Grande on Oct. 3rd. Lieutenant Graham
died Oct. 13th. Santa Anna is encamped at San Luis Potosi.
REv43i57p4c1,
November 13, 1846: Intelligence from the Army [from the American Flag]
Intelligence from Matamoras says that the armistice at Monterey continues.
REv43i57p4c2,
November 13, 1846: Naval Attack on Alvarado!
An attack on Alvarado was planned for the 11th and 12th.
REv43i57p4c2, November
13, 1846: The death of a Naval Officer and An Amiable Man [from the
Union]
Commodore John Nicholson dies of apoplexy at Mrs. Ulrich's home.
REv43i57p4c4, November
13, 1846: Gen. Lamar
General Mirabeau B. Lamar has been appointed the civil and military Governor
of the Texas Frontier.
REv43i58p1c4,
November 17, 1846: Very Late from Mexico
Santa Anna arrives at San Luis Potosi.
REv43i58p2c5, November
17, 1846: General Vega
General Vega and other Mexican Officers were released in exchange for Captain
Carpender and the men of brig. Truxton.
REv43i58p2c5,
November 17, 1846: Operations of Captain Fremont in Upper California
Accusations of Fremont's actions during his occupation of California.
REv43i58p4c1, November 17, 1846: The Sufferings
of the Soldiers
A volunteer of the Kentucky regiment gives n account of the three days fighting
at Monterey.
REv43i58p4c1,
November 17, 1846: Important From Santa Fe [from the St. Louis Republican,
Nov. 7]
General Kearney leaves for California and appoints officers to govern the
Mexico area.
REv43i58p4c2, November 17, 1846: Seizing
of the Yucatan schooners, Ventura and Joaquina.
The schooners, Ventura and Joaquina have both been captured by the
U.S. Marshal.
REv43i58p4c5, November 17, 1846: Late From
the Squadron! Second Abortive Attack on Alvarado! Expedition Against
Tobasco. [from the New Orleans Picayune, Nov. 7]
The Commodore fails to attack Alvarado.
REv43i59p1c6, November
20, 1846: The Mexican War
The article argues against the Whig position of the war.
REv43i59p1c7,
November 20, 1846: New Mexico and New Leon
The article states that the war with Mexico is good for Americans because
it provides the citizenry with a good sense of geography and exposes
them to a new culture.
REv43i59p2c6,
November 20, 1846: The Call For Troops [from the Union]
The article lists the places for rendezvous of the new volunteer regiments.
REv43i59p2c5,
November 20, 1846: Extracts From Mexican Papers
Provides information obtained from the Mexican press.
REv43i59p2c6,
November 20, 1846: Attention Grays!
Call for volunteers to join the Richmond Grays.
REv43i59p2c6,
November 20, 1846: Attention Volunteers!
Calls upon the men of the city of Richmond to join Captain Carrington's company
of volunteers.
REv43i59p2c7, November 20, 1846: Marine
Journal
A record of the ships that sailed from and arrived at the Port of Richmond.
REv43i59p4c1, November 20, 1846: Miscellaneous,
Further Mexican Intelligence
General Ampudia reports his casualties.
REv43i59p4c3, November 20, 1846: Late From
Our Squadrons in the Gulf and on the Pacific
An update from the U.S. ship Cumberland off the coast of Vera Cruz.
REv43i59p1c7,
November 20, 1846: Later From Monterey
The schooner, Virginia brings news from Monterey. General Taylor remembers
Captain Ridgely.
REv43i59p4c4,
November 20, 1846: Justice To A Brave Virginian
An account from a letter written by Lieutenant Colonel Garland about the
battle of Monterey.
REv43i59p4c5,
November 20, 1846: Melancholy Casualty Capt. Randolph Ridgely
Captain Ridgely was thrown from his horse and crushed at Monterey.
REv43i60p2c1, November 24, 1846:
From Monterey, Official Despatches From Gen. Taylor
Detailed report of the operations at Monterey.
REv43i60p2c4,
November 24, 1846: Tuesday Morning, November 24, 1846
General Taylor's dispatch of the army's position and operations.
REv43i60p2c5, November
24, 1846: To Arms!
Captain Scott will visit the county of Hanover in pursuit of volunteers.
REv43i60p2c5, November
24, 1846: Volunteers of Virginia!
Calls for volunteers from Virginia.
REv43i60p2c5,
November 24, 1846: Volunteers For Mexico
Captain Robert G. Scott will travel to Tayorsville, Hanover courthouse,
Cold Harbour, and Louisa courthouse in search of Virginia volunteers.
REv43i60p2c3,
November 24, 1846: Latest From Mexico, Important News! [from the N.O.
Jeffersonian, Extra, Nov. 16]
News about the crisis between U.S. and Mexico relations.
REv43i60p2c3,
November 24, 1846: Santa Fe [from the Independence Expositor]
General Kearney has arrived at Monterey. Colonel Doniphan is to make a treaty
with the Navajos and recover the stolen land from them.
REv43i60p2c4,
November 24, 1846: Later From Mexico [from the N.O. Jeffersonian, Extra]
The State of San Luis Potosi denounced the Presidency of General Salas.
RE43i60p3c6, November 24, 1846: Attention Volunteers!
Captain Carrington calls upon volunteers from the city of Richmond.
REv43i60p4c2,
November 24, 1846: Saturday Morning, November 21, 1846: Alexandria in
the Field!
The large numbers of patriotic volunteers from Alexandria are used as a model
county for the rest of Virginia.
REv43i61p1c6, November 27, 1846: Important
From Mexico Mexican Letters of Marque
Mexican Letters were taken from Vera Cruz to Havana where authorities intercepted
them.
REv43i61p1c6,
November 27, 1846: Third Attempt Upon Alvarado
Commodore Conner plans to attack Alvarado again.
REv43i61p1c5,
November 27, 1846: Departure of Maj. Gen. Scott for the Seat of War
Washington, November 24, General Scott and his staff are ordered to Mexico
to lead the military.
REv43i61p1c5,
November 27, 1846: Capture of Tabasco
Official Dispatches from Commodore Conner and the capture of Tabasco.
REv43i61p1c5,
November 27, 1846: Richmond in the Field!
Captain Carrington's company of volunteers is increasing in size and plans
to leave for Mexico sometime soon.
REv43i61p2c2,
November 27, 1846: Official Despatches from General Wool
General Wool crosses the Rio Grande.
REv43i61p3c1, November
72, 1846: Death of Major Lear
Major W.W. Lear died at a camp near Monterey from a wound received during
battle.
REv43i61p4c7,
November 27, 1846: First Regiment Called Out
A regiment of volunteers from New York are called to leave for Mexico.
REv43i61p4c1, November 27, 1846: From
Monterey, Official Despatches From Gen. Taylor
General Taylor's update on the army and its position.
REv43i61p4c6,
November 27, 1846: Naval Operations in the Pacific
The U.S. vessel Cyane bombs the town of Guaymas and burns a Mexican
ship in the harbor of that city.
REv43i62p1c4, December 1, 1846: Troops Eastern Virginia
REv43i62p1c5, December 1, 1846: U.S. and Mexico
REv43i62p1c6, December 1, 1846: Capture of Tampico
REv43i62p1c6, December 1, 1846: Troops for Tampico
REv43i62p1c6, December 1, 1846: Ordnance for Tampico
REv43i62p1c6, December 1, 1846: Commodore Perry
REv43i62p1c7, December 1, 1846: Later from Havana
REv43i62p1c7, December 1, 1846: Later from Mexico
REv43i62p2c1, December 1, 1846: General Scott. Bygones
REv43i62P2c5, December 1, 1846: Letters of Marque
REv43i62p4c1, December 1, 1846: Poem: Monterey
REv43i62p4c3, December 1, 1846: United States Seizure
REv43i62p4c4, December 1, 1846: Tabasco
REv43i63p1c4, December 4, 1846: Pursuing Reflextion
REv43i63p2c1, December 4, 1846: The War
REv43i63p2c2, December 4, 1846: Volunteers from Petersburg
REv43i63p2c5, December 4, 1846: Tampico
REv43i63p3c2, December 8, 1846: Determination for War
REv43i64p3c7, December 8, 1846: A Proclamation
REv43i65p1c1, December 11, 1846: Presidents Message
REv43i65p2c4, December 11, 1846: Apropriations to Volunteers
REv43i65p2c4, December 11, 1846: The Virginia Regiment
REv43i66p1c2, December 15, 1846: Virginia Volunteers
REv43i66p1c7, December 15, 1846: Latest From The Army
REv43i66p2c3, December 15, 1846: Rumor of Another Revolution in Mexico
REv43i66p2c6, December 15, 1846: Funeral Ceremonies
REv43i66p4c7, December 15, 1846: Latest from Tampico
REv43i67p1c7, December 18, 1846: Late and Important From the Squadron
REv43i67p2c2, December 18, 1846: Later from Mexico. Taylor and Santa Anna Correspondence
REv43i67p4c1, December 18, 1846: News of Tampico
REv43i67p4c4, December 18, 1846: Mr. Davis Calls for Information
REv43i68p1c4, December 22, 1846: Capture of Military Stores
REv43i68p2c1, December 22, 1846: Volunteers For Virginia
REv43i68p2c1, December 22, 1846: Trial of Commander Cappender
REv43i69p1c4, December 25, 1846: Massacre of 150 Americans
REv43i69p2c2, December 25, 1846: Public Documents
REv43i69p2c2, December 25, 1846: War Department, December 21, 1846
REv43i69p2c2, December 25, 1846: Navy Department, December 19, 1846
REv43i69p2c3, December 25, 1846 Affairs of California
REv43i69p2c3, December 25, 1846: Rumors From California
REv43i69p2c5, December 25, 1846: War Maintained by Peace Party
REv43i70p1c6, December 29, 1846: Very Late and Important From Mexico
REv43i70p2c4, December 29, 1846: Virginia Volunteers
REv43i70p2c3, December 29, 1846: Letter to the Editor
REv43i70p4c1, December 29, 1846: Poem
REv43i70p4c1, December 29, 1846: Letter to Secretary of War
REv43i70p4c2, December 29, 1846 Secretary’s Letter to General Kearney
REv43i70p4c2, December 29, 1846 Letter from General Scott to General Kearney
REv43i70p4c2, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
REv43i70p4c3, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
REv43i70p4c3, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
REv43i70p4c3, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
REv43i70p4c3, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
REv43i70p4c4, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
REv43i70p4c4, December 29, 1846: U.S. Navy Department
July
August
September
October
November
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c3 Letter to Editor
The Enquirer, Richmond VA. Letter to the Editor Monday Morning, November 2, 1846
Far be it from our intention, we assure the Republican to avow the doctrine that the President “can do no wrong,” or that his acts should not be rigorously enquited into. But, now that we are engaged in war, and that it is of vital importance to its successful prosecution and to a speedy and permanent peace, that the whole public mind would be cordially united, and that the whole nation should have but one heart and soul for its glorious termination, we contend, that these fierce assaults upon the justice and policy of the war, these charges of “weakness and wickedness” upon those who are by the Constitution clothed with its management, are illtimed and mischievous, and in the strong language of the able and philosophic “Pike,” in the Union, are “a blow at the nation itself, while grappling in deadly strife with its foe. It is a decided encouragement to that foe for prolonging the conflict, and going on with his efforts […]. The one course cannot be pursued without endangering the other. The separation is impossible; and it this be the liberty of the press, it only shows how an engine of great good may be turned to public evil.”
It is not now for the first time, that the causes of war have been denounced by the Whig press. All remember the violent struggle that occurred upon the passage of the war bill – how the Whigs assailed the President as having himself produced the war, for the most miserable personal or political objects – how it was stigmatized as the “President’s war.” Still, the law was passed, by a majority of Democrats and Whigs, recognizing the existence of the war, not as produced by the President, but as having been begun by Mexico herself. The whole country acknowledged the justice and wisdom of the measure, and volunteers flocked by thousands to the standard of their country. This in itself is the strongest proof that the Administration had not brought on the war in the opinion of the American people.
But, says the Republican, “will the Enquirer deny that it was the march to that point [the Rio Grande] which provoked hostilities, the invasion of a territory which the Mexicans considered their own, and which, at the best, must be admitted to be debatable ground? If the American forces had remained at Corpus Christi, it is probable that not a single hostile gun would have been fired, that millions of treasure would have been saved, and hundreds of valuable lives, more precious than gold, been preserved to their country and their homes. Was the order to leave that point, and plant our banners on the Rio Grande, doing every thing to ward off the evil day?”
We dissent entirely from such conclusions. – We are satisfied that the Mexican rulers had resolved upon the reconquest of Texas, long before the march of our troops to the Rio Grande and commented the war, not because we occupied what the Republican calls “at best, debatable ground,” but because we had dared to form an union with Texas – a republic which had exhibited, in the languaged [sic] of Mr. Webster, (an authority not to be contemned by the Republican,) “from the time of the battle of San Jacinto, in April, 1836, to the present moment the same external signs of [….] quite as much stability of government – practically free and independent, acknowledged as a political sovereignty by the principal powers of the world, no hostile foot finding rest within her territory for six or seven years and Mexico her self refraining for all that period from any further attempt to reestablish her own authority over that territory.”
We know that the Whig press looked upon the annexation of Texas as a “gross usurpation of the Constitution,” and as giving sufficient justification to Mexico to make war, and the result shows that Mexico followed the advice. But whether Texas was rightfully or wrongfully annexed, the great measure was achieved by the American people, an the young State came under the wing of the American Eagle. We received her “ for better, for worse;” she consenting to share with us the blessings and the dangers of the Union, and we giving to hr a solemn pledge, that we should preserve and protect her in her full power and extent, against “a world in arms.” Even putting aside, against the historical fact that Texas originally extended to the Rio Grande the circumstance that she had solemnly fixed her limits by legislation at that river, and that she had been recognized with those metes and boundaries as a free and independent State, by the great nations of Europe and ourselves, imperatively demanded of us that we should throw our protection over her whole soil and citizens, as claimed by herself. Most treacherous and cowardly would it have been for us to have violated the conditions “nominated in the bond” of union, and suffered her territory to be overrun and her citizens and property to be murdered and desolated by her bitter foe. The Mexican rulers had vowed vengeance against us had declared their intention to regain by conquest the whole of Texas up to the Sabine – had refused to negotiate a peace with the United States, and had marched an army to the Rio Grande. Would it not have been absurd and criminally neglectful in our Government to have suffered that army to cross over into Texas, seizing our soil and murdering our citizens, without the least resistance on our part? Opposed as we are to war, we cannot see how our Government could have acted differently, and not justly incurl the charge of dishonorable and guilty apathy.
But admit the truth of all the Whig press say in regard to the causes of this “flagrantly unjust, unreasonable and destructive war” – admit that the President had himself waged war for his own wicked purposes – admit that it is an “unholy, damnable, abhorred, accursed and infamous war,” in the chaste and patriotic words of the Whig Ohio Congressmen Delano, and the Whig New York Tribune; or, in the language of the National Intelligencer, that our gallant officers and soldiers are “lawless men” engaged in “rapine” – admit all this, and we ask what good purpose can be attained by the constant iteration of assaults upon the Administration, and upon the justice an policy of the war? Truly, the president has already been abused roundly enough, and the war itself stigmatized in sufficiently violent terms. Let us first fight it out, gain our just demands, and an honorable and substantial peace – and then the Whig press may, with some show of propriety, let loose their amathemas. Then will be the time to secrutinize the conduct and motives of the Adminstration – then the Representatives of the people may order a searching investigation of the whole subject, and we mistake the President if he does not manfully meet the ordeal, and lay before the world the reasons and motives for all that he has been called upon to do, in obedience to his aworn obligations to the Constitution and the people.
Can any one doubt the impolicy [sic] and mischief of the daily assaults upon the justice of the war, and what the Whigs call, the “imbecility, weakness and wickedness” of the Executive? Can any one fail to see that such proceedings are calculated to arouse in the Mexican rulers hopes of success from divisions among ourselves? Not long since, Mr. Curtiss of Boston, Whig, in a speech in defense of Mr. Winthrop’s vote on the war bill, according to the report of the Boston Courier, Whig, said:
“It was well understood in Mexico, that a party existed in the United States, soradically opposed to this war upon principle, an so firm in their condemnation of the President for placing Gen. Taylor where he then was, that it was believed he would not be rescued. The Mexican government counted upon him as their certain prey, from this circumstance.”
Upon which the New Harvest Register well remarks:
“The Whigs had better not shed any more tears over the ‘poor Mexicans killed at Palo Alto,’ as it seems they were induced to cross the Rio Grande and attack Gen. Taylor, from what they read in the Whig newspapers. They supposed our brave little army would ‘not be rescued,’ because the Whigs were abusing the President! And they counted confidently on another Alamo massacre of our little army! There is little doubt but such would have been the result, had Taylor been defeated. ‘It was well understood in Mexicao’ that the Whigs were oppsed to the war, and that they would ‘not rescue him.’ Who then is responsible for the lives of those Mexicans, who, like many others, have been deceived by the Whig panics and promises? And what should be thought of members of Congress, who, with the belief that Gen. Taylor would be defeated, refused to vote supplies, and would have left their brave countrymen to the fate of Crocket and Fanning? In all our difficulties with foreign governments, this same factious spirit has hindered negotiation, weakened the influence of our government abroad and encouraged the enemy.”
But our past history shed a much light upon this point the virtuous Madison was denounced in the same way by the Federal press for having caused the war of 1812, also for its mismanagement. As a specimen, we give the following language of the Woroeser [Mass.] Spy, of […]:
“We hope, and believe, the people will soon be convinced that Mr. Madison is totally incompetent to hold the reins of government. This wanton waste of property, this perverse neglect of duty, is sufficient to band any administration with eternal infamy.”
What a remarkable parallel between this language and what we see daily in the whig press! If Mr. Madison could not escape such denunciations of his opponents, for party effect is it to be expected that Mr. Polk should, in the discharge of his responsible duties, pass the ordeal untouched, when a similar game of party is to be played?
We do not doubt the patriotic motives of the Republican – but we contend that the course pursued by it and the affiliated Whig press, is calculated to encourage the enemy and prolong the war. And to show how such proceedings were viewed during the last war, we quote from the National Intelligencer of that day. Then it fearlessly and honorably sustained the war and the Government. Now, for a party object, it denounces the Administration as “weak and wicked,” sneers at the present war as “rapine,” and our officers and soldiers, fighting our battles, as “lawless men.” See how its ethics of an earlier day contrast with its present course, and how conclusively it answers itself. On the 18th of August, 1812, it employed the following language, which is now quoted with strong effect, by the Union:
“It is impossible to read the federal papers at the present crisis – we mean the most of them, and particularly some in New England – without astonishment at the falsehood, the malice, and the following which their polluted columns are daily disgorging. If the declaration of war did not produce an unison of opinion in all the States it was at least to be expected, that some decency and come bounds would have been observed in a candid portion of our own citizens are seen openly to enlist an active and a wicked zeal in the cause of the public enemy, not merely shielding it of its enorunites [sic] but making it out to be the best, and at the […] nation with labels and abuse, in a spirit still more vengeful, acrid and turbulent, it is calculated to excite in the bosoms of the sound and patriotic millions of the country, who are doomed to witness such baseness, sensations of the strongest and most unqualified HORROR, mixed with the deepest LOATHINGS OF DISGUST!”
“These are the pure, the select, the selfmade, bloated patriots, who can bawl out from the highways and the housetops ‘tyranny,’ ‘tyranny!’ ‘proscription!’ ‘proscription!’ ‘fettered tongues, fettered presses!’ While their own language and their own acts are marked by an audaeity [sic] in false assertion, piling up in a black, stupendous heap, slander upon slander, one base invention upon another base perversion; here a misrepresentation an there a lie; one day a false rumor, the next a false charge; always mixing the deadiest [sic] gall with the foulest defamation. These are the men who see everything right in the conduct of the enemy, and everything not simply wrong but atrociously wicked in the measures of their own country. These are the men who, in their most deliberate resolves, brand with the epithets of mad men and fools, all those who legitimately hold the powers of the nation, and who, under the most awful responsibilities, and at the hazard of all the dearest stakes, have legitimately exercised them. – These are the men who, from sanctified lips, can […] about rights; who invoke the law and the constitution; who have at last fixed it in their own belief that they are all Gen. Washington’s own sons, &c., &c.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c4 109 words Letter to the Editor
The Mexican papers laud Santa Anna for having disposed of his person a credit and his own private funds, in order to facilitate the speedy march of his Division to Monterey. The National Guards were the only troops that would remain to form the garrison in the Capital. All the other brigades would follow Santa Anna.
We have been informed on good authority, (says the New Orleans Courier,) that the Mexicans are fortifying the City of Mexico with great care – to defray the expenses of which, the Government had levied a forced contribution.
It was reported at Vera Cruz, that General Ampudia
had resigned the command of the army.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c7 224 words From Mexico, News from Vera Cruz
[From the N.O. Bulletin]
The Editor of La Patria has received Havana papers containing the news from Mexico by the British steamer, which left Vera Cruz on the 1st Oct., and he has courteously permitted us to look over them.
The most important part of the news is, that the first brigade of cavalry left the capital on the 24th Sept. for Monterey, and Santa Anna was to have followed the next day at the head of the National Guard, which had been organized, and the other troops at the capital. The strength of his force is not stated, but he seems to have been actively engaged in raising and equipping men. A meeting of the merchants and other men of wealth residing in the capital, was held on the 17th Sept., to devise the means of supplying the Government with funds to carry on the war; but although the dates from that city are to the 24th , the result of their deliberations is not mentioned. A meeting for a similar purpose was held at Vera Cruz on the 23rd, but we are left in equal ignorance as to the result.
The Governor of Chihuahua has been informed of
the intention of Gen. Wool to march on hat department, and the Legislative
Assembly had authorized him to raise $5,000 by disposing of the privilege
of selling tobacco.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c7 Capture of a Mexican Brig of War
From a letter published in the city of Mexico,
(says the N. Y. Journal of Commerce,) it appears that the Mexican
brig of war Malek Adhel was captured in the port of Mazatlan by one
of our vessels, supposed to be the sloop of war Warren. The Warren
being outside, dispatched five launches, well armed, to capture the Mexican
then at anchor in the bay. The officers and crew on board the brig, unprepared
for an attack, took to their boats in great confusion on the appearance of
the Americans. Two officers, named Zerega and Cililio, and several sailors,
were taken prisoners. The moment the “Yankees” found themselves masters of
the vessel, they cut her cables and made sail for the frigate.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c7 204 words Hancock Expedition
[From the Illinois State Register, Oct. 23.]
Pursuant to the proclamation of Gov. Ford of the 12th inst., published in our last, a company of volunteers, to the number of 411, was raised in this city to be sent against the mob now infesting the illfated city of Nauvoo. The company elected Col. Robert Allen their Captain, and John Connelly and R.W. Diller their 1st and 2nd Lieutenants. Two brass 6 pounders, well appointed and manned by skillful artillerists, accompany the expedition.
As soon as the troops were enrolled […] for their departure were […] most despatch [sic], and they left town on Tuesday last abent [sic] noon. They will unquestionably receive large accessions of volunteers on their route. Ample provision has been made for arming and equipping such as may join them. The Governor hears the expedition in person, and it is his determination to put an end, at all hazards, to the violence and outrages that have brought disgrace upon the State.
His force will undoubtedly be, by the time he
reaches the theatre of action, amply sufficient for the purpose, and the
public sentiment will sustain him in resorting, it necessary, to last extremity
in restoring the supremacy of the laws and vindicating the character of the
State.
[AMB]
Tuesday November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c7 268 words Letter to the Editor
Washington, Oct. 30, 1846
[Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun.]
No dispatches have arrived from the Army, except those, the contents of which have already been communicated through the medium of the Southern papers. Private letters, received here by gentlemen connected with the military department, lead us to suppose that the Mexicans are preparing for another fight, still more sanguinary and obstinate than that of Monterey. We cannot hope to make Mexico sue for peace until we have gained the basis of a line of military operations, which, at the same time that it renders us powerful for attack, shall enable us to remain military masters of the conquered territory.
Such a line of operations, it is believed, would be obtained, by taking possession and strongly fortifying Rincanado, Linares and San Francisco. By the terms of the capitulation of the troops under Ampudia, at Monterey, the Mexicans were to fall back on Rincanado; but they were allowed to keep possession of it. Rincanado is but thirty miles from Monterey, just half way on the road from Monterey to Saltillo; and here military men expect the Mexicans to make another desperate stand. The terrain is favorable to them, as that town, (with about 12,000 inhabitants,) is situated in a defile of the mountains, so as to form the key either to Monterey of Saltillo.
In regard to the manoeuvres contemplated in the
Gulf of Mexico, nothing but surmise and rumors have as yet reached the people
who are in a habit of “listening at the doors.” The members of the Cabinet
would ill execute their trust if the intentions of the Government could be
made known to the letterwriters.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p1c7 152 words General Taylor and General Butler
A writer in the Washington Union, in some remarks upon the report about General Butler, says: A gallant regular officer who has just returned from Monterey, in the capture of which be bore his part, in relation to the charges against General Butler, says, explicitly, “that if there was any complaint against General Butler, on any account, in the army, he had never heard of no angry words or difficulty of any kind between Generals Taylor and Butler; nor did he believe that there had been any. The officers of the regular army had the greatest respect for Gen. Butler as well as for Gen. Taylor, and had all been to visit the former after he had received his wound.”
He also says, “the kindest feelings exist in
the army between the regulars and volunteers, and that the former considered
the latter as having shown extraordinary steadiness and efficiency for raw
troops.”
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p2c1 330 words Untitled, Richmond
Richmond, VA, Tuesday Morning, November 3, 1846
We have already dwelt upon the mischievous effect of the course pursued by the Whig press in regard to the Mexican war. It is calculated to depress the ardor of our own men, and elevate the hopes of the enemy. We deem it our duty to refer once more to a particular case, which clearly demonstrates the impolicy [sic] of such reckless proceedings.
The New Orleans Tropic, for party purposes, published a statement that General Taylor was to be superseded, and General Butler to be appointed to the chief command of the army. – This news reaches the camp, and is received as “Gospel truth.” It produces immense excitement among the volunteers, public meetings are held, &c. We had no doubt that this was a fabrication of a Whig brain, intended to throw odium on the Administration. As we predicted, the Union comes out and refutes the whole story. There never was the least foundation for a rumor, which was near producing fatal consequences upon the harmony and efficiency of our army. We trust that this will be a useful lesson to the Whig press, not to indulge in such assaults for political effect, when their country is engaged in war.
The Union refers to the “idle and unfounded rumor, which had prevailed in the camp for a brief period, that General Taylor was about to be supersede from the command of the camp at Monterey; but it was soon exploded, as appears by the letters themselves, before they were sent off.”
“We beg leave most respectfully to say, that the press ought to be
more careful in arraigning distinguished officers before the bar of the country,
and ascribing designs to the administration which have no existence. We regret
this censorious spirit in the journals; as we also deeply regret the feuds
and quarrels and rencontres [sic], if they too have any foundation, which
have been lately reported to exist in to cases between two of the officers
of the army.”
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p2c2 THE SIEGE OF MONTEREY
We know that our readers cannot hear too much of the thrilling scenes of this great event in our history. The success of our arms has proved that while we have the finest army in the world, our citizensoldiers are always ready to defend their Country's rights and honor with as much efficiency as zeal and courage. Thanks to our free institutions, which make every citizen feel and act, as if he was specially commissioned by his Country to uphold her honor and maintain her rights. How nobly do they contrast with the hireling troops of European monarchies, who fight like automatons, wellorganized, it is true, but wanting that fire of liberty and free thought and action, which animate our troops.
In another column will be found a leter wiping off the stain which was attemped to be cast upon the gallant Baltimoreans. We add here a letter which we find in the Cincinnati Advertiser. It will be seen that Ohio is vindicated by her own bravemen. We feel proud in the conviction that all the volunteers have won green laurels at Monerey, and we trust that no cavilling or unworthy jealousy will attempt to deprive them of a single leaf.
September 25, 1846
HeadQuarters, Army of Occupation, before Monterey.
Dear Brough: My last advices to you were dated Cerralvo, 14th inst. What I then told you has proved true. The ten days have passed, a dreadful battle has been fought and Monterey is ours. We arrived at our present encampment from three to four miles from town, about noon the 19th inst. That day and the night of the 19th were occupied in recomonering perhaps one of the strongest possible natural positions; made apparently impregnable, by batteries, bastions, barricades and castles; absolutely coverd with heavy artillery, and defended by at least ten thousand men. The town is situated at he foot of the chain of hills called the "Sierra Madre," or the mother chain, and commads the pass upon the Saltillo road, and is, in fact, the key to the whole plain from here to the gulf; and if defence has been successful, no further inroad could have been made by the army of "OCCUPATION" into the interior of Mexico from this direction.
The west end of the town is defended by what is called the Bishop's Palace, on a hill of several hundred feet in height, and mounted with 18 pounders, commanding the town, and the entire plain in front, within reach of its metal. This castle was in turn defended by three batteries in its rear, on successive elevations, sweeping the hill side in the only direction where aproach was possible, and commanding the Saltillo road. The town itself was a fortification, or defended by a succession of forts, running through the whole town, from east to west, and so arranged that all could range upon each one east, as they by chance should fall into our hands, while each of them could command the plain in front. The whole of these defended by the "Bishop's Castle." Batteries were literally placed at every street corner, sweeping the streets in every direction by cross fires. You discover, therefore, the impossibility of knowing the resistance your infantry would meet with in the town, after having passed two miles under a torrent of grape and 18 pound shot, raking you in every direction, until you found yourself surrounded by stone walls and your men falling in whole ranks around you.
The first step therefore, was to take the "Bishop's Castle." That once in our possession would enable us, effectually, to attack each fort in succession, upon the most vulnerable and least protected frontas the enemy no doubt had regarded that as totally impossible, fully believing the only attack, with the remotest hope of success, would be from east to west and not from west to east. To accomplish this task, Gen. Worth was assigned, with about two thousand infantry and a couple of pieces of Duncan's sixpound artillery. He commenced his march from camp about 12 o'clock at noon of the 20th, so as to effectually obtain the point in the rear of the hill before dark, and in the night to take up his position on the hill side. On the morning of the 20th, the remaining regular infantry and all the volunteers of Gen. Butler's Division, were led to the attack upon the east end, thus to divert the forces of the enemy, for the relief of Gen. Worth. Both attacks were made about the same time in the day, say about 9 o'clock, A. M. of the 20th. The conflict was awful beyond conception. Our whole force of infantry were contending with muskets only against stone walls, batteries and forts, from morning till night. Dreadful was the havoc. The officers in the engagement of the 8th and 9th pronounced it nothing compared with the horrors of this dreadful day. I do not yet know the loss, but it was at least six or eight hundred, in my opinion. The 1st Ohio Regiment was in the hottest part of the fight all day, but did not suffer as much as the Tennessee and Mississippi Regiments. Col Mitchell is wounded severely in the leg, by a two ounce ball passing through it below his knee; he is doing well. Adj't Armstrong, of the Cadets, a noble and gallant fellow, has had his leg amputated. Capt. George of the Butler Boys, was slightly wounded, and about thirty or forty of the regiment killed and missing; the names of whom I cannot give you, but some officer of the regiment will of course give you them all. In my hurry, however, to inform you of our immediate friends, I have digressed from the general engagement.
On the night of the 21st, our men, exhausted and worn out with labor, returned to camp, leaving sufficient forge only to keep possession of two batteries and two forts, and to throw up a defense in the night while on the morning of the 21st, General Worth sent a despatch that he had possession of all the batteries of the enemy, and was using them upon him, commanding the Bishop's Palace, and would soon have it that he had met them in open field, and dispersed them with great slaughter. Our troops therefore again marched to the conflict, and did what they could, while Gen. Worth went on with his work. About 2 o'clock in the afternoon was discovered, by the aid of the glass, a general scramble of troops for the Castle an indiscriminate scramble of Mexicans and Americans, all going in together. In about twenty minutes THE SPANISH FLAG WAS DOWN, and the Stars and Stripes were waving! the Castle was ours!
Worth lost in all this the greatest achievement of modern times about thirty men.
The infantry in the East end of the town seeing this, renewed their courage and energy, while Worth lost no time in running his forces down the hill into the west end, with tremendous havoc. Each division thus in possession of opposite ends of the town, and in possession of strong holds, closed the second day's work of horrors. In the mean time Duncan had his battery in town, going from house to house, advancing half a square every fire, and driving the enemy from post to post, into the Palace and Public Square, into the midst of which shells were continually thrown, exploding with awful effect. During the night our mortar was placed upon a hill comanding the Cathedral, or what the boys call the "black fort," which itself, it is said, cannot be taken, except by regular approaches. An eightteen pounder, thrown from the Bishop's Palace into the ditch, was raised, and placed in a most effective position, during the second night, or before the third morning. Our positions now all manifested. On the third morning our great demonstration was to be made. Just as the fire was opening, a white flag appearing, negotiations for evacuating the town were communced, and last night were closed. The town and all munitions of war are ours. The enemy have seven days to leave it in; they march out with all their small arms, and one small piece of artillery. The troops not again to serve during the war, and we are not to pass a certain point between this and Saltillo in sixty days.
This is a brief and imperfect sketch of what is no doubt one of the greatest military efforts of the century in which we live. Errors of detail will be found perhaps, when you see the official history of the affair. I had forgotten to tell you that all the armed positions are to be put into our hands today.
Old Medicine regrets his jokes upon poor Mitchell, as there is too much reality in the matter. The gallant Colonel, however, lays upon his back, with his leg swung to the top of his tent, swearing that Chamberlain shall cure his leg without the old saw, and seems to worry at the loss of his horse, given him by his friends of the Cincinnati Bar, more than the wound of his limb. Adj. Armstrong says he don't care for his leg, so we have the town; but I fear it will go hard with him. The ability with which he attended to the duties of his regiment has won for him the highest esteem from Col. Mitchell, and the entire respect of all the officers and men. Though a long resident of Cincinnati, I only became acquainted with him here. He certainly is capable of high enterprizes. I am in the midst of business, and the camp full of confusion. I cannot devote you more time at this moment.
Gen. Butler was wounded in the leg early in the engagement, and the command of course devolved upon one of Ohio's favorites General Hamer. His coolness and deliberation is the theme of general remark. The boys call him our "Sledge Hammer." During the 21st, Dr. Chamberlain was the only surgeon in camp, and all the cases of wounded that came in, were thrown upon his hands. His labour was incredible.
J.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p2c3 Siege of Monterey
[From the Balitmore Patriot]
THE SIEGE OF MONTEREY
Very Interesting Details the Killed and Wounded of the Baltimore Battalion.
The following letter from a solidier of the Balitimore Battalion is one of the most interesting yet published. It has been furnished to us for publication by the gentleman to whom it was addressed:
Monterey, 26th sept., 1846.
My dear sir The American arms are once more victorious after one of the most glorious contests on record. The enemy fought us five days and surrendered yesterday. The city of Monterey, with all its public buildings and records; its Cathedral, armed to its dome, its plaza, a complete net work of masonry in some places eight feet thick; its distilleries and an yards, all turned into forts and in our hands inpregnable; besides five regularly built forts of the strongest kind, all are ours, 42 pieces cannon, mortars, howitzers and 18pounders; small arms and ammunition innumerable, together with a large number of prisoners are also ours. Monterey, the place where Mexico has heretofore been invulnerable the spot where she once defeated the combined forces of Old Spain and France, 17,000 strong, has fallen into our hands. The regular and volunteer infantry fought like lions, charging in several instances right up to the fort walls, six feet thick; jumping and wading the dykes and ditches; climbing the walls and shooting the cannoniers at their guns, without any support from artillery whatever. Such a thing was never heard of before. Our Battalion charged upon the city with three forts pouring a continual crossfire upon us, while every roof, window and door sent forth one uninterrupted stream of musket and rifle balls; bombshell, 18, 24pounders, grape, canister and round shot of all sizes fell around us and passed over us in millions, and many a gallant heart that beat high on the glorious 21st September lies cold around and within the city of Monterey. Honored be their memory. The brave and chivalrous Col. Watson, after making two different charges on the city, after the 3d Infantry Regiment of Regulars and Flying Artillery had retreated as ordered, on his return to the eastern section of the city, and while again charging on a fort tannery and distillery, fell mortally wounded with a musket ball passing through his neck and separating the jugular vein. He never spoke but died in three minutes, and lies buried in a grave with officers of the army, forty feet from the upper fort. It was reported that our gallant captain, now Colonel Stewart, had fallen early in the action, [...] in the thickest of the fighting, while death was claiming many around him, alternately leading and urging on his own men and others (for we were all huddled together) to another charge, or directing and pointing out the best shelter a mud hole, hedge, fence or sapling would afford. He made a gallant stand after we were ordered to retreat, killing with his own hand an officer and driving back, with a few more, a large body of Lancers who were charging upon the volunteers. He succeeds to the command of the Battalion by seniority and with, I may say, the universal approval of the officers and men, and Governor Pratt would do great injustice to the son of an old defender, to a brave and cool officer and warmhearted gentleman, were he to entertain for one moment the idea of commissioning any other person as Colonel. Captain Boyd of the Chesapeakes was also reported to have fallen early in the action, but i saw him soon afherwards bravely leading his men up to the cannon's mouth, followed by volunteers from other regiments. Captain Kenley bore himself gallantly in the fight, also pressing into the very thickest of the fray; and Captains Piper and Waters both behaved well. Captain Bronaugh's company were on guard and not in action. The 1st sergeant in Captain Waters' company. (orderly Truscott, a man about 42 years of age) and whose place is at my elbow in line, had his head blown about 40 feet in the air by a 12pound shot. There are eight men in my mess. Wm. P. Alexander, one of them, has not been recognized since the action of the 21st. The Lancers killed all the wounded and I fear he has been buried without being recognized. Robert Caples, another, was mortally wounded, I fear in the groin the ball was taken out of the back.
Malcolm Wilson, another, was wounded in the arm by a musketball. Three out of eight killed or wounded; besides, W. G. H., another was in the first fort taken all night, and R. W. R., another, after charging on the fort once, and down town twice, was cut off and taken prisoner but succeeded, two hours after the Americans had retreated, by the aid of a Mexican officer, in making his escape, running the gauntlet of three batteries without receiving a scratch. After being forced into the little shelter which a small hole in an open field, raked by three forts, afforded, raising my head a few moments after, I found forty Lancers within one hundred yards of my right, and 5 or 600 between me and the American army. Knowing that their mode of warfare is to show no quarter, and cut the throats of the wounded you may know I did not feel comfortable, and was glad to see Gould and Freburger, the only two of our company then on the field. I feel grateful to God that my life was spared amid such hopeless circumstances, and a general feeling of gratitude to the Almighty God of Battles seems to pervade our men. We had to run near three miles in making the different charges. Poor Watson said to me a few momens before he fell, "Who will dare say now that American volunteers cannot be depended upon in any fight?" They were the last words I heard him utter, being separated from him when wounded. Albert Hart, our color sergeant, has lost an arm, and the flagstaff of the banner presented to the brave Steuart, by the ladies of Baltimore, through the Old Defenders, has a wound upon it, from the same ball. That flag was the first and only one that floated gailantly in the breeze yesterday from the first fort taken from the enemy. Joseph Files has lost an arm, and Wm. Lee was wounded slightly in the abdomen. I merely mention the killed and wounded in our company, knowing you will see an official list. Gen. Worth, with two brigades, was led around by a secret pass behind the town, (by a Mexican, to save his neck,) and coming into the Saltillo road, cut off the enemy's supplies and utterly surprise him by a brisk cannonading and bombardment in his rear. Unfading laurels are due to Worth for his scientific, soldierlike and highly praiseworthy part in the bloody battle of Monterey. The fight commenced, on our part, Monday morning early, and ended late Wednesday night. They had fired upon us, however, for three days before, but with little success. Our glorious little battalion has covered itself with honor, and, with the exception of a very few, who will be duly reported, every individual seemed to think the result depended on him. All in Captain Steuart's company not here mentioned as wounded, escaped unhurt and are well. An armistice has taken place for eight weeks, and we hold this whole country as security for the expenses of the war. It is said the enemy were 14,000 strong at least, and our force in the field was less than 6,000. I had forty odd wounded Mexicans placed under my charge by Col. Stewart night before last. Miserable objects of compassion some of them are and they and the stench of the dead lying around, the damp, the dirt and the want of food for almost eighteen hours, almost overcame me. Monterey is the strongest place naturally I ever saw with the eye or in print. There is an open plain, three to four miles long and four or five wide in front, except a range of hills, about forty feet high, behind which the town lies. In the rear, and on the right and left, the mountains back right up to it, and rise several hundred feet high abruptly and almost perpendicularly, while the only pass is through a mountaingorge directly in its centre. I was within ten feet of General Taylor in the town on the 21st. He was as cool as a cucumber and ordered us to pass into the city and break open the houses. "God knows how any of us got out."
R.
The following is an extract of a letter from an officer in the Baltimore Battalon, to his parents.
CAMP NEAR MONTEREY,
September 25. 1846
We arrived here on the 20th [...][sic] , and when within three miles of the city we were sluted by a brisk cannonading from the enemy's batteries they fired upon our advance Guard and General staff. We of course countermarched, and encamped within sight if the city. On Sunday me went on, but returned without doing any thing, the enemy firing upon us not a shot returned. Early on monday all the troops were assembled in battle array. I cannot picture the horrors of the day to your mind, and am thankful that an Altwise Providence has spared me the fate that many a noble heart has met with Four officers belonging to the army fell very near to me, among [them] [sic] Col. Watson, for whom a nation might mourn. He is no more.
In a desperate charge against one of the Mexican forts, he fell mortally wounded. He handed his sword to Lient. Bowie, and died with a smile on his face, that indicated more than tongue can tell. He died a brave man and a gallant soldier. The last words which he uttered were: "MEN! YOUR GENERAL LEADS YOU WHO WOULD NOT FOLLOW?". These words were uttered, seeing an officer pass, who, it is presumed, he in the expiting agony of death, took for Gen. Taylor.
I deeply regret that Col. Watson was not spared to enjoy the victory with us. Poor fellow, he is gone, and I hope his country will take care of his wife and children. It will be a great loss to them. So hot was the battle, that we were unable to take the body of our lamented Colonel from the street, until nearly 48 hours had elasped. We buried him in a brick house within about 400 yards of where he first made a charge with the battalion. A very singular circumstance occurred while the man was in the act of preparing the grave: a ball came and took his head off; and instead of burying one, we had to have another dirge for the poor soldier. Such is war.
We have lost a number of men, but nothing appears so horrible to me as those men who have their arms and legs taken off. I never before imagined what a battlefield was never thought it like this. We have some noble fellows in our battalion instead of being privates they should be generals. They charged three forts and suceeded in taking them, but many who were foremost are now numbered with the dead. We passed the forts on Monday, and got into the city. I left my ten determined to surmount every obstacle. I know we had eyes looking upon us that had jealousy in them, and we determined to lead the leaders.
You would not suppose that any one could live in this lane or street where
we were fighting.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p2c4 THE DESTRUCTIVE STORM IN THE GULF
(From the Union)
KEY WEST, Oct. 14, 1846
Sir: It is my painful duty to report to you a dreadful calamity which has befallen this place, and every thing connected with the Florida ref, so far as heard from.
The town of Key West is now a heap of ruins of about 400 houses, large and small; there are not more than 10 or 12 left standing or in habitable condition, and those much shattered, whilst the general confusion and distress can hardly be realized. On Sunday, 11th Oct, we were visited with a fearful hurricane, accompanied with torrents of rain. The gale commenced about 5 A.M., from the Northeast, and continued to increase during the day, when at between 3 and 4, P.M., the wind veered to the southeast, and the storm became a tornado. At this time commenced a scene which defies description. The houses in town, (stone as well as wood,) were torn piecemeal and scattered away like chaff before the wind, tendering it dangerous to move about which last was indeed impossible as a foothold could not be maintained. The wind gradualy changed to the south, still blowing with the same strength, and finally to the Southwest, abating its fury about eleven, P.M. Of course the sea was driven into the harbour [sic], and against the island with tremendous force. The lower part of the town was inundated to the depth of three feet, with a strong current running across it, whilst the public grounds at the Southwest point were in a still worse and more exposed condition. In brief terms I have to report the total destruction of all the works thus far erected for the construction of the fort. The wharves, bridges, houses, lighters, boats, tools, machinery and materials, ordnance stores in short, all have been swept way, and mixed up with the general ruin. The streets of the town are barricaded with the timber and debris from the fort a large amount of which lodged there. Even barbette carriages, muskets and crowbars from the fort are found in the midst of the town. The strip of land or levee along the shore on which the public buildings were placed, being the highest of the public ground, has been completely levelled by the sea. The stable and blacksmith shop only remain in a shattered condition, having been moved from their original position the former about two hundred feet, with all the horses and mules in it, five in number, which, with the forage, are safe. The large cistern, which was of masonry, founded upon the rock, remained uninjured. Upon this the overseer and several others saved their lives. It being Sunday very few men were on the ground. Four men, who were in the barracks, were lost, a fifth was saved by clinging to the wheel of a sixpounder, after drifting three hundred yards towards the hospital.
The lighthouse at the southwest point, including keeper's house, has been swept away, leaving not a vestige to mark the spot where it stood. At this place the keeper's family and friends. 14 persons perished; and where Sand Key and its lighthouse stood is now left only a shoal. All the vessels in the harbor, ten or twelve brigs and schooners, have been driven ashore and wrecked, including the revenue cutter; their crews saved; but as far as ascertained, about thirtyfive lives have been lost on the Key.
About half the piles of the wharf remain and a part of the breakwater of the forts lying below the level of low water, at the angles. But in this general wreck, and loss of all the property on hand. We are put back to the position where we were nine months ago. A large quantity of lumber may be recovered, and some tools: piledriver and two scows much injured. At the present time, I have turned my attention to the collection of the public property that can be found, and to the erection of a temporary carpenter shop and other fixtures for doing work, and shall proceed, as soon as possible, to reestablish the wharf. The loss to the Engineer Department cannot be less than $50,000; that is, it will require that to make us good again, or put us in the same state we were in before the hurricane, supposing that we commence de novo. No storm like this has been known on the island since its settlement. The water in this case rose on the west side of the island about three feet higher than known before. It was wholly a wind tide.
Perhaps the department may deem some change in the mode of construction necessary since this event. On this point I shall submit my views to the department as soon as possible, and a more full report of the disaster, giving now only this brief outline, to avail of a special messenger about to depart for Charleston.
We have just this moment heard from the Tortugas. Garden Key is safe, though the lighthouse is much injured, and small vessels lying there dismasted.
The United States brig Perry is wrecked to the Eastward.
I have the horror to be, respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. DUTTON,
Captain of Engineers.
To Col. J. G. Totten, Chief Engineer, Washington, D.C.
In addition to the above, we are favored with the following letter from Commodore Sloat to the Secretary of the Navy:
NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 23, 1846.
Sir: I have the honor to inform the Department that I arrived at Havana on the evening of the 7th instant from Charges, in the English mail steamer, and not finding any vessel to sail for any southern port of the United States. I embarked on board the U. S. brig Perry, and sailed on Saturday, the 10th, directing Lieutenant Commandant Blake to land me at Charleston, or any port south of that, from which I could reach Washington without delay. During the night it commenced blowing a gale, and on Sunday it increased to a tremendous hurricane, such as has never before been witnessed in those seas. During the whole day and Sunday night the brig was driven before it at the rate of twelve or thirteen miles per hour, and no one on board expected her to live from one moment to another. About two o'clock on Monday morning, she struck on the Florida reef, about forty miles East of Key West, a kind Providence directing her to a part of the reef where the tremendous high seas carried her over, striking several times very hard, and breaking the rudder from the stern post. The masts were immediately cut away, to prevent the vessel going to pieces, that the lives of those on board might have some chance of being saved. She finally stopped in comparatively smooth water. At daylight we found we were within a mile of one of the Baya Honda Keys, and several wrecks near us. On board of one, not half a mile from us, twenty lives were lost out of twentyone. One was saved by a boat from the Perry. On Tuesday two small wreckers came alongside, and Lieutenant Blake employed them to take on board the guns, shot and other heavy articles to lighten the brig, in hopes to get her off, as she remains quite tight. On Thursday I left her in one of those vessels to land the cargo at Key West, and the next day took passage in a small schooner from New York bound to the Brazos St. Jago, the captain agreeing to land me at the Balize, where I arrived yesterday.
Everything will be saved from the brig, and I think she will be got off and taken to Key West, and probably she may be got to Norfolk under jury masts. The department may rest assured that Lieutenant Blake will do everything that can be done for the interest of the United States. It is impossible to speak in too high terms of the noble, cool, and judicious conduct of Lieutenant Blake, his officers and men, on this most trying occasion; and I am most happy to state, that no life has been lost, or any accident happened to anyone on board. Lieutenant Blake will send a detailed report to the department by the first opportunity. He had not time to send one by me, as I did not determine to leave until five minutes before the wrecker left the brig.
The destruction of life and property by this hurricane is immense. Forty or fifty vessels were known to be on shore before [...] nearly all the wrecking vessels are destroyed; the town at Key West is entirely in ruins; not more than five or six houses remain uninjured. Of the lighthouses at Key West and Sand Key not a vestige remains; Sand Key is washed away, so that the sea flows over it. Fifteen persons were lost at the lighthouse at Key West, and six at that on Sand Key. Many other lives were lost in the harbour [sic] and town of Key West. The revenue cutter Morris is a wreck, lying in two feet water; the customhouse is blown down, and the marine hospital unrooted, and otherwise much injured; the preparations for building the forts are entirely destroyed. The barracks escaped with less damage than any other buildings, but they have been slightly damaged. Some stores, wagons, &c., for the army, have been wrecked in the harbour [sic]; and as near as I can judge, the loss of public property at Key West will not fall short of two hundred and fifty to three hundred thousand dollars.
Most respectfully I have the honor to be your obedient servant, & c.,
JOHN D. SLOAT,
Commodore.
To the Hon. John Y. Mason,
Secretary of the Navy
Washington, D.C.
[AMB]
Tuesday , November 3, 1846 REv43i54p2c5 LATE F[R]OM HAVANA
Terrific Hurricane Great Loss of Property Unparalled Destruction of Shipping.
By the brig Cybele, Capt Merrill, which arrived at this port yesterday from Havana, whence she sailed on the 20th inst., we have been placed in possession of a great mass of particulars in regard to the disastrous hurricane which occurred on the 10th and 11th inst.
During the hurricane, walking in the city was dangerous from large sheets of lead and tilepots, blown down from the tops of the houses; these lay about in every direction, and were in many instances carried by the wind to a great distance. The beautiful Palmetto and other trees, which adorned the Governor's square, were broken and torn down even the lamp posts, &c. The wind was strongest about nine o'clock, at which time it shifted suddenly to the N. W. , and blew with terrific violencethe air was filled with dense clouds of "spoon drift", or salt spray, which made it impossible to face it. This spray was carried for half a league into the country and deluged the houses, entering every crevice and flooding the streets. The surf and spray was seen to dash high over the lantern of the lighthouse on the Moro Castle. Many houses were blown down or unroofed, among them the Tacon Theatre, which was partly unroofed and received other damage. The streets were nearly deserted, except by occasional detachments of soldiers, ordered to different posts to give assistance where it was needed. The beautiful Passao, the fashionable drive and promenade of the citizens, suffered in its shrubs, trees and plants, and after the hurricane many persons were forcibly detained to assist in removing the rubbish and ruins from the street. An occasional pedestrian might be seen flying faster than he appeared willing to go, borne by the irresistible force of the wind, which swept through the long narrow streets with incredible fury. But the wharves presented the most disastrous spectacle. Ships, barques, brigs, and schooners, some crowding on top of each other, three tier deepsunk, wrecked, disastered [sic], or totally crushed to pieces with the owners, Captains and sailors, gazing in amazement upon the scene of destruction.
Some vessels, known to have been in the harbor before the hurricane, have disappeared and their fate was left to conjecture, as nothing could be seen a furlong's length, owing to the showers of spray and drift which filled the air; and as the wind blew nearly into the habor, they could not have gone out: but the sad spectacle of masts' spars, yards and pieces of wrecks, strewing the harbor, proved that they must have drifted into each other and sunk or gone to pieces. The numerous menofwar were driven on ashore and dismasted. It is not known how many lives were lost, but bodies were seen floating in the harbor in the different dresses of seamen in the merchant and naval service. The brig Mohawk, from Newfoundland, went ashore at the Punto Fort, and was exposed to the heaviest part of the hurricane. The crew escaped by lines being let down from the fort to the wreck, by which they ascended to the walls of the fort.
Men from the interior stated that the sugar crops were very much injured, and in many instances ruined. A continuance of fine weather, might restore such as were not totally lost. The coffee plants were also seriously damaged.
The gale towards Cardenas was not so violent. Fears were entertained regarding several vessels which sailed the day preceding the hurricane.
The Governor had issued permission to such as had their houses damaged to rebuild with wood a privilege heretofore denied under such circumstances.
His Excellency was seen riding with his suite the day following the hurricane to ascertain the damage done. He was everywhere received with marks of respect by the citizens.
The captain of an English brig died on the 13th from wounds received during the hurricane.
The hurricane commenced about 12 o'clock on the 10th, and was at its height at 9 o'clock on Sunday, the 11th.
Capt. Merril reports the following vessels sunk, ashore, dismasted, &c., in Havana, in the hurricane of the 10th:
The barque Rapid, of New York, sunk at her anchors, has been got up, and would load in a few days for New York.
Barque Iowa of Baltimore, went ashore, was got off after discharging with little injury.
Ship Madiline, of and from New York, arrived on the 9th, sunk next day would be sold.
The ship Childe Harold, Crosby, of N. York from Guayaquil, badly damaged; was repairing and taking in a cargo of sugar for New York.
Ship Mudara, of New York, will be a total loss. She was a new ship, about sixteen months old.
Ship Madeline, Shankland, of Philadelphia, just arrived from New Orleanssunk.
Brig Echo, of Newport, Smithsunk.
Brig Lisbon, of Newport, injured about $1,000.00.
Brig Mohawk, Crocker, sunk; cargo and vessels total loss; sold for $100.00.
Brig Millinoket, of Boston, badly damaged, having had her stern knocked off; probably would be condemed.
Brig Oak had been ashore on the rocks, and lost her foremast and maintop mast.
Brig Titi, badly damaged, has her side stove in and lost topmast; was repairing, and would sail in a few days for New Orleans.
Brig Cumberland, of New York, Hadley, badly injured, and was condemned.
Schr. Planet, Jacobs, sunk, condemned and was sold for $10.00.
Schr. Merchant, of Charleston, Keare, dismasterd.
Brig Venezuela, Fower, lost both masts close to the deck.
A French frigate went ashore, but will probably be got off with considerable damage.
A French sloupofwar was driven ashore on the morning of the 11th, and will be a total loss. Also, a French manofwar steamer, much damaged, being dismasted, & c.
A Spanish manofwar brig sunk at her anchors one went ashore, and three were slightly injured.
The steamers Montezuma and Guadaloupe are ashore.
The Havana Prices Current of the 18th Oct., in summing up the disasters of the shipping, gives the following result: ships sunk 11, dismasted 4, much damaged 8, safe 4 total 27. Brigs sunk 19, dismasted 12, much damaged 14, safe 4 total 49. Schooners sunk 7, dismasted 3, much damaged 2, safe 1 total 13. Steamers lost Natchez, Tacon and Villeneuva. Coasters sunk upwards of 15.
The brig Maria L. Hill, of Dennis, Mass., Capt. Chase, from Georgetown, D.C., bound to Kingston Ja., went down in a gale of wind on the 16th Sept., in lat. 30, lon. 72. Captain and crew were taken off by Capt. Sprague, of the brig Smyrna and carried to Havana.
"Havana, Oct 17th. We have to announce, with deep regret, that we have again been visited with a terrific hurricane, far more destructive in its effects upon the shipping in harbour [sic] than that of 1844; it commenced on the evening of the 10th, and lasted until 11 o'clock the next morning. Out of 104 sailing vessels, steamers, and vessels of war in our port, all but 12 have been sunk, wrecked, dismasted, or otherwise seriously injured; besides which 40 or 50 coasting vessels were destroyed.
"In the city and environs, the injury to the buildings and trees, & c. has been immense, and many lives lost. The accounts from the country are, as yet, incomplete, in the information afforded, and vary a good deal. In some districts, the damage, both to the sugar cane and buildings on the estates, has been immense, in others it has been somewhat lighter.
"The total diminution of the crop in consequence of this calamity will no doubt be very considerable; though we have not data enough as yet to make an estimate much will also depend on the weather we have for some weeks to come.
"The greater part of the coffee crop has perished, and almost all the Plantain trees have been rooted up and fields of Rice destroyed, whereby much suffering will be occasioned and imports of provisions from abroad will be required to a great extent.
"Our Government have published an order permitting small foreign vessels, suited for the coasting trade, to be transferred to the Spanish flag. Such vessels should be of light draft with a good capacity of storage.
"No announcement has yet been made of any reduction of duties upon
articles of necessity, and it is doubtful if any relief will be afforded
in that way."
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p3c1 126 words Marine Journal
Port of Richmond.
High Water this day, at 3 o’clock, P.M.
Arrived,
Steamer Columbus, Parrish, Baltimore.Schr. Union, Hughes, Philadelphia, sundries, to Bodeker & Bro., Grubbs & Apperson, J. H. Eustace & Son, P. Johnston, Webb, Bacon & Co., Shields & Somrville, J. Winston, S. Bonavita, Antonio Pizzini, Andrew Pizzini, Juan Pizzini, Crenshaw, Bros. & Co., Duval & Purcell, Edmond & Davenport, R. Parrish, Williams & Haxall, Frys & Co., T. Sharp, B. Peyton, H. Fisher, W. Taylor, J. Clendening, VanLew, Smith & Co.
Schr. Rich’d Thompson, Corson, New York.
Schr. Meridan, Talcot, Portsmouth, N. H.
Schr. Cambria, Mitchell, Norfolk.
Schr. Blackhawk, Yeaton, Portsmouth, N.H.
Sailed,
BALTIMORE, Nov. 1. – Arrived, schr. Eliza Ann, Graham, from Richmond.
NORFOLK, Nov. 1 – Sailed, brig Sidi Hamet, Crane, for Richmond.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p3c3 189 words Evening Mail
By Last Evening’s Mail [Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun.] Washington, Oct. 31, 1846
You may expect shortly to hear of a further war. Peace is to be conquered, and such a blow struck upon Mexico as will induce her Congress, now about to convene, to sue for terms. In no case will our Government be disposed to give back Upper California and New Mexico; though it is hardly to be supposed that Mexico will insist on such a condition.
Commodore Sloat, who was in the terrific gale in which the Perry was driven ashore, who was left to command, will soon be relieved by Com. Shubrick, now on his way to the Pacific on the raze Independence.
The sloop Boston, Lieut. Pearson, commander, and the splendid sloop Albany, lately launched in New York, Captain Breese, both of the first class, will be ready in a few days to join the squadron in the Gulf.
The Brandywine frigate, now at Norfolk, will probably replace one of the frigates, perhaps the Cumberland.
The Germantown sloop, now at Philadelphia, is also destined or the Gulf, but may eventually sail for the Pacific.
The sloop Decatur (Norfolk,) is nearly ready for the same
destination (Gulf.)
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p3c3 38 words An Honored Baltimorean
We learn, says the Baltimore Sun, that intelligence has been
received by the friends of the gallant Capt. Miles, of Baltimore, that he
has received the appointment from Gen. Taylor, and is now acting as “Governor
of Monterey.”
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c1 832 words Miscelaneous
Miscellaneous [from the New Orleans Picayune, October 23.] Arrival of Commodore Sloat
We had the pleasure of greeting Com. Sloat last evening, just arrived from the Pacific in company with his son. The Princeton had apprised us of his arrival at Chagres. He would have retuned to the United States in the Princeton, but that vessel was short of coal and it was determined to return home in an English steamer by the way of Kingston and Havana. Arrived at Havana he there found the U.S. brig Perry, Lieut. Blake, and took passage on her for Charleston.
In another column we have told of the gale which the Perry encountered. The gallant Commodore told us last night that he had followed the sea now for nearly fortyseven years, and thought he knew what a storm was, but that he never before had seen it blow. We need not detail his very interesting description of the gale and the almost miraculous preservation of the ship and the lives of those on board. From the wreck of the Perry he reached Key West, and thence went on board a schooner bound to Brazos Santiago, which put him aboard a pilot boat, so that he reached this city last evening by a towboat.
The Commodore’s health is somewhat impaired and he has been suffering for several months, but from recent exposure his appearance indicates no sign of indisposition or infirmity.
We are indeed to the Commodore for various information on different topics, frankly communicated to us, but make but little use of it at this time. Duplicates of his despatches [sic], brought over by the Princeton, have already gone on to Washington. His arrival at Chagres at about the same time as the Princeton was most opportune on every account, and will prevent any confusion or trouble from the nonarrival or failure of messengers.
The Commodore was at Mazatlan on the 7th of June. The evening of that day he received news of the battles of the 8th and 9th of May – not formal reports or authorized accounts, but straggling extracts from private commercial letters. The moment was critical; there was no time to delay. The Commodore decided “to take responibilty,” and at 8 o’clock next morning he set sail for Monterey, and on the 7th ficially planted in California. Not till the Commodore’s return to Mazatlan, after the middle of August, did he receive the communications from his Government which justified the wisdom of the step he had so promptly taken.
The flag of the United States was hoisted at Monterey, Upper California, on the 7th of July, 1846. On the 9th, it was displayed at San Francisco, Sanoma, and Bodega, and a few days after at Sutter’s Fort on the Sacramento. On the 12th, a flag was furnished at the request of and was hoisted by the foreigners, (principally American and English,) at the Pueblo of San Jose. – On the 16th, the mission of San Juan, about forty miles from Monterey, was garrisoned and fortified. On the 26th, the corvette Cyrane sailed with a battalion of riflemen, to take possession of San Diego, and cut off the retreat of General Castro, the Commanding General of Upper California, into Lower California or Mexico.
When Com. Sloat left Monterey on the 29th of July, all Upper California, North of Santa Barbara, was in the full and quiet possession of the American forces, apparently very much to the satisfaction of all the inhabitants, who have been long desirous of seeing their country under some stable government.
The gallant an adventurous Fremont commands the refleuten who went down on the Cyane to San Diego. His men are animated with the bitterest feelings of hostility towards Castro for his conduct towards their expedition before the war.
The Commodore graphically describes the mode in which justice is administered now in California. In some cases, surgeons and pursers are converted into magistrates, and admirable magistrates do they make. The people at first stood aloof, but they have found that true justice rather than Mexican law is now administered, and that it costs nothing. This has surprised them and is working its natural effect in conciliating them. – Were the flag of the United States now to be hauled down in California, it would not be replaced by that of Mexico. The inhabitants of California will never submit to the rule of their old masters.
Lower California, too, will probably succumb to our arms if the war continues. Representations of its value to our commerce will be made to the Government, and of such a nature as to induce prompt action unless Mexico speedily sues for peace. The next news from the Pacific will probably be to the effect that the ports of Mexico on that coast have been blockaded. Mazatlan has been spared as a measure of policy. It is now an American and English port rather than a Mexican one.
At the late hour at which we write, we can but thus indicate few
points of interests upon which the Commodore touched.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c2 90 words Miscelaneous
Miscellaneous, The Galveston
This fine steamship left, or was to leave, at a late hour last night,
for Brazos Santiago. Maj. Graham goes on her with despatches [sic] for Gen.
Taylo. Lieut. Kearney’s company of dragoons go over on her. We learn, too,
that some of the Kentucky Regiment, who arrived on the Day from Lavacca on
Wednesday, seized this opportunity of reaching Matamoras. Of these some are
low in health, but their spirits were superior to bodily infirmities, and
they would not lose the opportunity of reaching the field of active service.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c2 167 words Miscelaneous
Miscellaneous, Good Reasoning [from the N.O. Bullentin]
Commodore Sloat, (says the N.O. Bulletin,) on receiving information
of the battles on the Rio Grande, was placed in quite a dilemma, having the
unfortunate example of Commodore Jones before his eyes to warn against any
extra responsibility; and on the other hand, the shocking dereliction of
duty that would be charged on him, should it turn out that war in fact existed,
and he failed to act. He argued, however, that it was better to be condemned
for doing too much, than for too little; that if the country on the east
of the Rio Grande belonged to the United States, it was plain that Mexico
had invaded our territory, and he had a right, being in the public service,
to retaliate, and invade hers. It on the contrary, the disputed limits belonged
to Mexico, it was plain that our Government had invaded Mexico, and he had
a right to follow the example of Government. And on that hint, came California
under the star spangled banner.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c4 Reinforcements
Baltimore, October 29, 5 P.M.,
REINFORCEMENTS
The United States steamship Massachusetts went to sea on Tuesday
with troops for the army in Mexico, which she will land at Brasos. They
have been enlisted for the 4th, 5th, 7th, and 8th infantry, and are under
the orders of officers, most of whom were engaged at Palo Alto and Resaca
de la Palma. The whole number of recruits is about 580.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c1 Loss of Revenue Cutter
Miscellaneous, Loss of Revenue Cutter Morris
An officer who was on board the Morris during the gale has kindly furnished us with some hasty memoranda relating therein. He writes us: “It is very doubtful if we ever get the Morris off, as she is about one and a half miles from the main channel. Capt. Walden is busily engaged n discharging the ballast, and will make every effort to get her off.” We make liberal extracts from his letter:
Gentlemen – I have the unpleasant duty of informing you of the wreck of the revenue cutter Morris in a hurricane. It commenced on the morning of the 11th, and continued until mid night. We were lying about one mile from Key West when it commenced, and immediately sent down the yards and made every preparation for the gale. At 1:45, P.M., the schooner was riding with 130 fathoms of chain out in an ugly cross sea. Owing to the violence of the current, which was running twelve knots by us, and the vessel laboring very heavy, we battened down the main hatches, and all bands passed through the wardroom.
At 2 o’clock, blowing a gale from the S.E., and our lee rail under water, cut away mainmast or the safety of the vessel and lives on board, which carried with it the foretopmast in the cap.
At 4, p.m., the starboard chain parted, the schooner dragging boardside to the wind and sea which was making a complete breach over us, both pumps going an bailing from wardroom and berth deck, and with great difficulty kept the vessel free.
At 4:15, the water gaining upon us and the upper works seeming to work, cut away the foremast, when a sea struck us, staving an carrying away the larboard boat, cranes, bulwarks, quarterhouse, swinging boom and everything moveable off the deck. The sea continuing to make a breach over us, and the schooner on her beam ends, hove the two lee guns overboard.
At 5, P.M., we struck on a shoal, at this time unknown, the compasses flying around in such a manner that it was difficult to tell which way we were going when the larboard chain parted, and the vessel continued to strike heavily on the shoal for some time.
On Monday morning, the 12th, we ascertained that the vessel had drifted about three miles, and was on the northwest shoal, in two feet of water. Around us lay vessels of all descriptions; not one rode out the hurricane in safety.
One ship near us on her beam ends, the Eben Preble, of Boston:
two brigs and three schooners dismasted and ashore in about the same depth
of water as we have. One hull of a vessel sunk, and four vessels bottom up.
Our decks were covered with sand, and the bottom appeared to be in motion
during the hurricane.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c1 76 words From Havana
Miscellaneous, From Havana
Before the Perry, left Havana, the steamer arrived there from Vera Cruz. Gen. Paredes, the late President of Mexico, was a passenger on her.
Great apprehension is expressed to us by Com. Sloat, whether the
British steamer for Vera Cruz, which left about the 9th inst.,
could survive the late gale, if she were unfortunately caught in it. The
accounts given in another column do not realize the Commodore’s description
of the violence of the gale.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c4 119 words Miscelaneous, Military
The U.S. troops at Fort Moultrie, ordered some time since to proceed
to Mexico, (says the Charleston Courier,) have been detained by order, to
await the reception of clothing. The clothing having arrived, the ship South
Carolina has been chartered, and the troops – about 250 in number – are
now embarked, and the vessel is to leave, we understand, tomorrow. The men
are mostly recruited within a few months past, in the upper parts of this
State and Georgia, and are said to be as fine a body of soldiers as any in
the service. With good drilling, under the experienced officers that have
them in charge, it may be expected that they will give a good account of
themselves.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c4 174 words Conciliating the Enemy
Miscellaneous, Conciliating the Enemy [from the New Orleans Times, Oct. 21]
The Matamoras Flag of the 10th contains a sensible
article in regard to the conciliating policy of the United States Government.
This policy, the editor says, serves but to make the Mexicans more insolent,
and offers them stronger inducements to continue the war, for it is enriching
them at the expense of our own citizens. The enemy are enjoying privileges
denied to our own people! They acceot our favors – laugh at our stupid policy,
and assassinate us at the first opportunity. – But make them suffer the evils,
instead of the blessings of war, by making them support our army, instead
of supporting theirs, and then they will probably soon sue for peace. It
ridicules the “liberal policy.” As it is called, towards the enemy. During
the suspension of hostilities they have a firstrate opportunity to prepare
for another brush. “Their officers are allowed the freedom of our camps.
They can come to any of our posts, examine our strength and means of defense,
lay plans for their capture an incite their countrymen to resistance.”
[AMB]
Tuesday November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c4 245 words Duels
Miscellaneous, Duels, Affairs of Honor
We are sorry to find that some difficulties have broken out amongst a few of our officers connected with the army at Camargo. – It is a pity that any American blood should be spilled by American hands, in an enemy’s country, and after events so glorious to our arms. – The Galveston News, of the 16th contains the following:
AFFAIRS OF HONOR. – We learn that Gen. A. S. Johnston, and others, would have came by the Galveston, but were detained in Camargo by an unfortunate occurrence. A misunderstanding has risen between Col. Marshall, of Kentucky, and Col. Bailie Peyton, of New Orleans. The former, we learn, had very freely censured Gen. Taylor for what he deemed to be bad generalship or culpable neglect. He was defended by Col. Peyton. The language finally became so warm that a challenge was given and accepted, and the parties were to meet with their friends the next morning (last Sunday) and settle the difference by combat, Gen. A. S. Johnston acting as the friend of Col. Marshall. The officers now here left Camargo on Saturday evening before the duel was to be fought between Capt. Shivors, who was mustered into the services from Texas, and Capt. Mousson, of New Orleans. The cause of this is said to be the insulting deportment of Mousson towards Shivors’ company. It was supposed that Mr. Kendall, of the Picayune would act as the friend of Mousson, and Lieut. Jacobs, as the friend of Shivors.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c6 MAJOR P. N. BARBOUR
[N. O. Delta]
The Cincinnaiti Times says that "Maj. P. N. Barbour, one of the gallant officers killed at Monterey, was not as we stated yesterday from the N. O. Delta of the 5th, but the 3rd regiment of infantry. Capt. Macrae, of the same regiment, commanding at Newport, writes us of Maj. Barbour, that 'his virtues as a man, and his fame as a soldier, are proud monuments, which his regiment will ever claim as its hertiage.' Most men are aware of, though scarely [sic] any fully appreciate, the esprit du corps which is one of the strongest feelings of a soldier; added to which, the kindly sympathies of close social communion and common danger, form a bond of union, second to none other in strength. We are pleased to see these attentions to accuracy, for the soldier's wealth is his honor, and his fame his children's inheritance!"
This brave officer distinguished himself in the battles of the Rio Grande.
An intelligent correspondent, and a kinsman of Major Barbour, writes us,
from personal knowledge, that he was "a young man of the highest worth and
of great promise. He was the son of Mr. Mordecai Barbour's youngest
brother, Philip Barbour, of Culpepper, who moved to Kentucky with his father
in 1799. The mother of this young man consigned him, in 1828, to Messrs.
Mark Alexander and John J. Barbour, of Virginia. They put him to school
in Georgetown, District of Columbia, and in 1829, obtained a cadet's warrant
for him. His father was then dead; he lost his life in the campaign of 1813,
with Gen. Harrison, where he commanded a regiment at the Thames, and where
he contracted the disease which, a year or two after, ended his life. The
father was a great favorite of Mr. Madison, and he was in the habit of relating
many anecdoted [sic] of him, some years ago." [Union.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 3, 1846 REv43i54p4c3 THE STORMING OF MONTEREY
The following account of the operations of Gen. Worth's Division at Monterey and defense of Baylie Peyton, of this city, (says the New Orleans Picayune):
Monterey, Sept. 25, 1846.
My Dear Sir: After a most obstinate and sanguinary conflict, which was continued from day to day for five days, Gen. Ampudia capitulated this city on the 24th inst. Our loss in killed and wounded has been extremely severe, not less than 500, amongst whom are some of the most valuable officers of the regular army, as well as volunteers.
The 1st Regiment of Tennessee volunteers, commanded by Col. Campbell, suffered more severely, perhaps, than any other which was engaged during the siege, having had twentyseven killed on the field, and seventyseven wounded, some of them mortally, and many of them seriously, and this out of a force of only 379 men. Not withstanding this tremendous loss, the regiment charged under the lead of its gallant colonel and other officers, and was the first regiment which stormed the fort, mounted the breastworks, and unfurled the stars and stripes upon its walls, amidst a perfect hailstorm of balls, which was pouring upon it.
These Mexican towns and fortresses are incredibly strong, and few men fight better from housetops, and behind stone walls, or are more adroit in the use of stationary artillery than the Mexicans. In these actions Gen. Taylor had, all told, about 5,000 men; while Gen. Ampudia's force consisted of 10,500 infantry and cavalry, besides militia, rancheros, & c. Gen Taylor had eighteen pieces of artillery, of which seventeen were field pieces; while Gen. Ampudia had fortyfour pieces; thrirtyeight of which, with two standards of colors, are now in our possession.
Our Army arrived before Monterey the morning of Saturday the 19th inst., and about halfpast 8 o'clock, while reconnoitering the outworks of the city, a ball, discharged from a 12 pounder, struck near Gen. Taylor and staff, and bounded with terrible velocity over his head, at which the old hero did not change a muscle or even bat his eye. This day, the 19th, was spent in making reconnoisances [sic] of the place, and its various outposts, amidst a good deal of firing on the part of the Mexicans, from cannon and a short gun called an escopette, which carries a large ball to a distance of 500 or 600 yards.
On Sunday, the 20th, Gen. Worth was detached by Gen. Taylor, in command of the 2d division of the regular Army (about 1500 strong) and Col. Hays's regiment of Texas Rangers (consisting of 400 men) with a view of turning the city and occupying the Saltillo road, for the purpose of cutting off the enemy's supplies and reinforcements, which were daily expected under Gen. Santa Anna. The division performed the march making a road, filling ditches, & c. a distance of about six or seven miles, and reached the vicinity of the enemy in the evening, about 5 o'clock, when the General, with an escort from Col. Hays's Rangers, was fired on by the batteries placed on the heights, and also by a corps of the enemy's light troops, who were sent through a cornfield to cut off his party.
From this time until the appearance of the white flag, on the evening of the 24th, the division of the Army commanded by Gen. Worth was incessantly engaged, and was ever successful never for one moment hesitating or faltering putting to route the enemy's cavalry on the plains, driving his infantry through the chaparral and from the housetops, scaling immense heights, capturing guns, and storming fortresses which were not only deemed impregnable but which seemed to be almost inaccessible. And, best of all, these brilliant exploits were performed with the loss of fourteen killed and fiftysix wounded; and during the four days' contest there occurred not the slightest error or mistake on the part of the commanding General, nor was there at any time the least faltering or hesitancy on the part of the officers and men regulars and volunteers in executing his orders. Indeed, it is difficult to determine which is most worthy of admiration, the wisdom and energy displayed by the able and accomplished commander, or the gallantry and ardor with which he was sustained by those under his command.
When the difficulties and apparently insuperable obstacles are considered, I venture the assertion that the series of successes obtained by the division under Gen. Worth's command, in the recent operations against Monterey, will bear a favorable comparison with the proudest achievements of the American arms. He was opposed by a greatly superior force, which was well served with artillery and posted upon the highest peaks of the Sierra Madre. He stormed heights, took three pieces of artillery, turned them on the enemy, and with these and the aid of one of his own pieces which he contrived to place upon the summit which commands the famous Bishop's Palace, eight hundred feet above the base of the mountain united with the inestiroable [sic] services rendered by the dauntless and invincible spirits who stormed these heights, he reduced that stronghold of the enemy and drove him into the city, upon which he turned the guns he had captured. He bivouacked his force for the night on the bleak mountain, and the next day, after bombarding the town, he conducted his forces into the streets amidst a shower of balls discharged at his person. He was seen everywhere, directing everything, driving the enemy from his batteries forcing him from street to street and house to house, until night ended the conflict. He maintained his position in the city, placed a teninch mortar in one of the strongly fortified squares, to direct which he placed that gallant and [skillful] [sic.] officer, Maj. Munroe, with instructions to fire a shell, (weighing ninety pounds,) every half hour during the night. This duty was performed with terrible effect, almost every shell falling in the plaza, where the enemy's forces were collected to he number of 7000 or 8000 men. He had made every necessary preparation for pursing his advantages the next day, even to placing some of his artillery on the tops of high buildings, which would command and sweep the housetops from which the enemy fought.
Such was the state of preparation when Gen. Ampudia capitulated the city, reflecting equal honor upon the military skill of the head which conceived, and the indomitable energy of the gallant spirits who executed the plan of operations.
Our most serious loss occurred on the 21st, when Gen. Taylor only intended to make a diversion in favor of Gen. Worth, who was engaged in the attack on the other side of the town, but owing to the ardor and impetuosity of the troops, they very soon became involved in a general engagement, which Gen. Taylor felt bound to sustain. This excess of courage involved melancholy consequences, but it is surely a most excusable weakness, if it be a weakness, to display an excess of ardor in the field of battle.
The volunteers from the different States behaved in the most handsome manner. They have won for the citizen soldier the admiration and applause of the officers and soldiers of the regular Army, who speak of their conduct in the highest terms of approbation and eulogy. Amongst the volunteers none have shone more conspicuously than the 1st Regiment of Texas mounted riflemen, commanded by that Chevalier Bayard, Col. J. C. Hays, better known as Jack Hays. This corps, from the Colonel to the private, has fully sustained its former reputation. In the first affairs in which Gen. Worth's division was engaged on the morning of the 21st, Col. Hays, with several companies of his mounted riflemen, were thrown forward to open the ball, which he did most beautifully, encountering and shooting in the presence of the General the Colonel of dragons who commanded the enemy's forces. In scaling heights, storming batteries, and clambering over walls and housetops, the voice of the gallant Colonel and the reports of the unerring rifle of the Ranger, were ever heard in the van. The courage and constancy, and subordination of this corps, is the theme of admiration in the Army.
But my object is narrative and not eulogy. It is not necessary for me to go into detail in relation to the terms accorded to the Mexican Army in the capitulation, as you will have seen the articles, or the substance thereof, published in the newspapers ere this reaches you. If anyone not acquainted with the facts of the case should object that our commanding general has granted terms too favorable to the retiring army, let it be remembered that our invincible little army had already suffered severely in baring the bosoms of our best citizens, and bravest officers and soldiers, to the batteries of an unseen foe; that the city was still immensely strong in its defences [sic]; that the Mexican army was double that of our own; this army was in possession of the strongest part of a city, each house of which is a fortress within itself; that each remaining street was barricaded, and most of them defended by cannon; and that, when driven from the city, the Mexican army possessed a fortress called the Citadel, of immense capacity and great strength, to which the whole army could have retired. To have taken this work, without a siege train, as we were, by assault, would have cost us very dearly. Independently of these considerations, our provisions were growing short, and our ammunition was quite limited. We were far removed from our supplies and reinforcements while the enemy might have been reinforced at any moment. And lastly, the policy avowed by our Government does not inculcate the idea that this is to be a vindictive or exterminating war against the people of Mexico, but on the contrary to conquer a peace, or in other words to whip Mexico to her own satisfaction, obtain our just rights, and conclude a peace upon terms such as would be becoming in a great and magnanimous nation towards a weak and distracted Government. All this has in my opinion been accomplished in as full, complete and ample a manner by the course pursed in the capitulation, as if we had stormed the citadel and put their whole army to the sword. This is, in my judgment, the last battle which will be fought in the Mexican war. Gen. Ampudia, in urging a pacific course on Gen. Taylor, stated repeatedly that he knew that Gen. Santa Anna was disposed to peace; that he was well assured that the course adopted would lead to peace between the two countries; that his object was to save the effusion of blood and the honor of his Government. But if the war is to be prosecuted, we are in the possession of one of the strongest, most healthy and beautiful places in Mexico; from which, when our reinforcements and supplies arrive, our army cannot be expelled by any force which Mexico will be able to send against it. We have taken arms and ammunition with which we can act offensively or defensively, according to the course of events and the policy of the government. If it be the policy of our Government to extend our boundary beyond the Rio Grande, then the line of the Rinconada, agreed upon as that beyond which the Mexican troops are to retire, is the most eligible which can be indicated by the geographical features of the country.
Gen. Ampudia and his army left this morning for Saltillo. He was treated with courtesy and respect by General Worth, whose quarters are in the city, and who accompanied him to the limits of the town. In fact, all of our troops displayed that forbearance which always marks the conduct of brave and magnanimous men towards those whom the fortune of war has placed in their power. You will observe that, in my narration of the events of the battles, I have confined myself to the operations of that division of the army which was commanded by General Worth. I have done so because I was with this command, near his person, saw what occurred, and know that which I have stated to be substantially correct. You are not to infer that I mean to intimate that the main army, under the command of General Taylor, did not perform feats equally worthy of the applause and admiration of the country. Other well informed as to the facts, and much better qualified for the duty, will no doubt give a detailed account of the operations of this portion of the army. Take the army altogether, and I doubt whether a superior body of men ever fought under the flag of our country.
Very truly, yours, & c.
BALIE PEYTON
J. An. Rozier, Esq.
[AMB]
Friday Morning, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p2c1 Whig Justice
The most barefaced misrepresentation we have yet seen in the Whig press, is a charge in the Georgia Journal that the object of the administration is to involve a gallant army in difficulties impossible to surmount! It says that "the game is to be, an assault upon the gallant old Taylor and his inetitorlous [sic] army," and adds:
"General Taylor, then, is to garrison Monterey, and advance upon the city or Mexico with the remainder of his army. It not reenforced, his advance will be a perilous one, and it rein forced by onehalf of the remaining troops in Mexico, his peril will be very little less. Some idea of the preparation made to meet him, may be gathered from an account, in another column, from the intelligent correspondent of the New Orleans Tropic, at Vera Cruz, under date of the 24th September.
"These preparations are making under the direction of Santa Anna, and all accounts agree that the Mexicans are rallying to the was, with renewed ardour. And it is under these peculiar circumstances, with an army diminished in numbers, and daily diminishing, that he is ordered to advance upon the city of Mexico itself. Do not Mr. Polk and his advisers expect more than "[...] of arms" more than wonders from the old hero? or do they intend to make a sacrifice of him, from the most selfish, the meanest ambition?"
Can anything be more wantonly absurd than the above? The Whigs say that this is "the President's war," forced upon the country for personal objects! Yet this liberal and far seeing Whig Editor actually charges the President with the design of placing this army in a position where it must be cut to pieces! It the army be defeated designedly, does not the President willfully destroy all hopes of "glory" and personal advantages, which the Whigs charge him with having exclusively in view? But it is useless to dwell upon such an absurdly suicidal argument.
Let us look at another Whig speculation. In the Baltimore Patriot we find the following:
"If it shall turn out, as we cannot believe it will, that Gen. Taylor and his army, cut off from all communication with the rest of the army, have been or will be entrapped, so that disaster shall fall upon him or his soldiers, the responsibility of such disaster and the loss of life that it may involve, will be laid to the charge of the Administration, who have hurried Gen Taylor on to Monterey, without furnishing him with adequate supplies, and have left him there without providing the means of keeping open the communication between him and the forces on the Rio Grande.
"But we trust no such disaster has befallen the gallant General or his gallant army. We have full confidence that they will be able to maintain their position against any force that may be brought against them, though we cannot help sharing in the apprehension that they may be exposed to get privation and dangers, from an attempt of the enemy to cut off his intercourse with the Rio Grande, from which he must get his supplies."
So anxious is the Whig editor to throw odium upon the Executive, that it imagines a disaster, and in the same breath "cannot believe it will" happen at the same time it has "full confidence" in any event, that the army "will be able to maintain its position against any force that may be brought against them." Was there ever so strange a device to make political capital?
Again, hear the N.O. Tropic
"We have no fears of the indomitable Taylor. His victory at Monterey is a perfect guaranty for the future. It, however, revurses [sic] should be his fortune, we shall hold the Government responsible for the faux pas of sending him forward with so small a force, into the midst of a swarming enemy, and in the face of an opposing army whose legions may hardly be numbered."
In the first place Gen, Taylor is "indomitable," and will plant the victorious Eagles of the Union wherever he goes. But "it reverses should be his fortune," the Government is to be held responsible for "reverses of fortune," as if, in the language of the N.O. Courier, Mr. Polk had the fickle goddess under bond and security to do just as he pleases. There are [acc......] [...] human energy or prudence can prevent. Brave and efficient armies have been foiled and defeated by circumstances, which sprung from the merest accident, such as false information, the combination of the elements, or other "reverse of fortune"yet, in such a case, the Government is to be held responsible.
We have not been chary of our praises of old "Rough and Ready". We have taken pride in expressing our confidence in the man and the soldier, and we still believe that he will do his whole duty, and again disappoint the Whig predictions of his defeat. But, at the same time, it must be ladmitted [sic] that he is necessarily clothed with a high responsibility, and that much is to be left to his judgment and discretion. He will, of course, take every means of concentrating his forces, and we are satisfied that he will be able to prepare himself to meet and overthrow any Mexican force that may oppose him. But the battle is not always to the strong; and it is within the range of possibility, that accident or a "reverse of fortune" may lead to disaster. Is it fair that, while the Administration are to have no credit for the brilliant victories of our army, it should be held responsible for all the accidents which human energy and prudence could not prevent?
But, we feel assured, that our brave officers and soldiers will once more throw to the winds the cavilling and grumbling prophecies of the Whigs. Even the Washington correspondent of the N. Y. Express, while charging the War Department with gross inefficiencies, refers to an expected battle at San Luis Potosi with the new army of Mexico concentrated under Santa Anna, and declares unequivocaly [sic] "The result will be as certain a victory to our arms as that a battle shall be fought. Let the Mexican army, therefore, be what it may, in point of numbers, there can be no danger of defeat."
Let the Whig press have no fears that the Administration will fail to
do justice to Gen. Taylor. Everything shows that the Administration regard
him with kindness and grateful confidence. Is it too much to ask of the
Whigs, to extend to the Administration common justice, and not condemn it
in advance, upon the flimsiest pretexts manufactured for the occasion? The
President has every reason to hope for the continued triumph of our arms
and a speedy and permanent peace. Did he harbor the designs imputed to him
by his political opponents, he would be acting in direct opposition to the
dictates of human nature and common sense to say nothing of more elevated
feelings, which we shall not ask the Whigs to concede
to him.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p2c6 MARINE JOURNAL
PORT OF RICHMOND
High water this day, at 5 1/2 o'clock, P. M.
ARRIVED,
Brig Pactolus, Boston.
Schr. Hart, Baltimore, via Norfolk.
NORFOLK, Nov. 4 Sailed, schrs. Thomas H. Thompson, Wixon, and
Joy, Bartlet, for Richmond.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p2c6 JAMES RIVER CANAL
Richmond, November 5
ARRIVED,
Boat Pig Iron, J. Spiller, from Lynchburg and Elk Creek, with produce, to L. D. Crenshaw, Bros. & Co., Lee & Tinsley, and Wortham, McGruder & Co.
Boat Pennsylvania, G. H. Walton, from Lynchburg, with produce, to B. Peyton, and Webb, Bacon & Co.
Boat Abingdon, J. S. Wilkerson, from Lynchburg, with produce, to Crenshaw, Bros. & Co. H. Ludlam & Co., Sheilds & Somerville, and Preston & Enders.
Boat Tennessee, D. Crumpacker, from Lynchburg, with produce, to J. R. Anderson, Caperton & Crump, and Sheppard & Williamson.
Boat James Madison, W. Tompkins, from Lynchburg, with produce, to Haxall, Brothers & Co.
Boat Holker, F. Cowell, from Scottsville, with produce, to E. G. Tompkins & Co., Thomas R. Blair, Sheilds & Somerville, B. Peyton, Warwick & Barksdale, Edmond & Davenport, and H. Probst.
Boat Log Cabin, F. Bland, from Scottsville, with produce, to B. Peyton, R. Parrish, and Warwick & Barksdale.
CLEARED
Boat John Randolph, W. T. Minor, with 56 1/2 tons mdse., for Scottsville.
Boat Thomas M. Bondurant, S. Guerrant, with 4 1/2 tons mdse., for New Canton.
Boat Lynchburg, R. S. Fields, with 20 1/2 tons mdse., for Lynchburg.
Boat Exchange, D. Bland, with 34 1/2 tons mdse., for Scottsville.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p3c4 TO THE EDITOR OF THE UNION
I send you an article that appeared in the "Telegraph". It is curious that the papers referred to have never seen the light. Publish the [....][one line illegible]. New York, Oct. 7. (From the N. Y. Telegraph)
MEXICO. Every information that can be obtained in regard to Mexico, at the present time, is desirable, and anxiously sought for and published. The Department of State at Washington, if the files are examined, are in possession of a great deal of information in regard to Mexico, which might be useful at this time
Under the impression that, in consequence of the rapid and constant changes of clerks and officers in the department, which have taken place, the present clerks may not know of the existence of the papers to which I refer, I beg leave to refresh their memories, by stating the following circumstances:
After the arraignment, trial and acquittal of Col. Burr, it is well known that gentlemen went to France; that, long prior to his going, he had very assiduously searched for and obtained all kinds of information that was deemed useful or necessary to a successful invasion of Mexico, which he had long contemplated.
These papers and documents he took with him to France. Whilst at Paris, Colonel Burr requested an interview with Bonaparte, proposing an invasion of Mexico, and offering to take a command in the proposed expedition. Bonaparte [....][one line unreadable] the Secretary of War, Col. B. was informed the emperor would receive any written communication he was disposed to make. After some deliberation, and a delay of three months, Col. B. sent in a proposition, accompanied by a voluminous memoir, detailing all the advantages to be derived by an invasion of Mexico. This memoir contained an accurate description of its geographical position, military resources its roads, rivers, mountains, defiles and points suitable for defence [sic]. The mode and directions in which it was to be attacked the routes to be avoided the places proper to secure and fortify the resources for sustaining the army the use that might be made of the mines their relative position, condition, production and every other matter useful and necessary to be known and understood by an invading General.
After the "memoir" a proposition was received. The government of France deliberated upon it, and referred it to a "council of war." In the meantime General Armstrong, our minister then resident at Paris, by some means "got wind" of what was going on, and had tact enough to acquire a thorough knowledge of Colonel B.'s plans. By his remonstrances [sic] Bonaparte was induced to decline their acceptance or adoption. And in the sequel General Armstrong frustrated all the arrangements of Col. Burr, who was in consequence obliged to leave France. At all events, he deemed his longer stay in Paris unnecessary.
After Colonel B.'s departure, copies of all these papers, maps, plans, and documents presented to Bonaparte, were obtained by General Armstrong and transmitted to the Secretary of State at Washington, where I have no doubt, if search be made for them, they may be found.
I have never seen any notice or allusion to these papers, in any work or document published in the United States. Mr. Gallatin probably saw them, and may remember something about them.
The writer had his information from the late Count St. Seari d' Angely, the former attorney general of France, and once, and at the time alluded to, the confidential counsellor and devoted friend of "Napoleon," (who resided during his exile many years in this city.) I respectfully suggest to the Secretary of War the propriety of causing a search to be made for these papers, satisfied they will be found useful and important to him, in conducting the present war with Mexico.
M.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p3c4 LETTER TO THE EDITOR
The editor of the Courrier des Etats Unis has seen a letter from
Havana which says Santa Anna took with him from Havana a score of Spanish
officers of acknowledged ability, among whom was Narciso Lopez, a Christino
officer, who has played a distinguished part in the late civil wars of Spain. The Courrier thinks they will prove very useful auxiliaries for the Mexican
Generalissimo.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p3c4 An Evening Visit to the White House
To the Editors of the Enquirer:
AN EVENING VISIT TO THE WHITE HOUSE
Gentlemen: If you will kindly allow me a part of one of your wellfilled columns, I will give your numerous readers a little sketch of a casual visit to the White House on Friday evening last. We were met by Mr. Walker, the Private Secretary, (I should remark the President was absent when we entered) with much politeness, and received by Mrs. Polk in the kindest, and, at the same time, most graceful manner. It may be said with truth, she is a lady of commanding dignity at all times, and her conversation, generally of the most agreeable character, is always happily directed. In my judgment, at no period in our history have we seen the hospitalities and ceremonies of the White House more handsomely dispensed, or displayed with greater Republican simplicity, than at the present time. If my observation be correct, no invidious or improper distinction seems to be made in the circle of visitors. There is no imposing movement or extra formality exhibited when a Secretary or some other high officer of Government presents himself. The quiet and unheralded citizen receives a polite and cordial salutation, as well as the haughty millonaire, or some proud Minister of State. And this is precisely as it should be a just and beautiful commentary, alike upon our noble institutions and the charming social qualities of the President and his family.
I was struck, not only with the easy and fascinating manners of Mrs. Polk, but equally with her patriotic sentiments and feelings. A gallant Lieutenant, just from the bloody but glorious conflict at Monterey, was there also, and as Mrs. P. gracefully carried back his thoughts to the distant field of his early fame, he caught the inspiration at once and dwelt briefly, for her entertainment, upon some of the thrilling incidents of those scenes. In the course of this animated conversation, (to which I was a favored listener,) the modest young officer remarked, in a playful manner, that something, (I do not now recollect what,) was rather too Democratic; to which Mrs. Polk replied, that "whatever sustained the honor and advanced the interests of the country, whether regarding as Democratic or not, she admired and applauded." the sentiment was truly a noble one.
I will conclude, gentlemen, by wishing our Republican President and his honored household, increased happiness and great "length of days," and yourselves eminent success in the glorious cause of Democracy.
A VIRGINIAN
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c3 The Army of Chihuahua
[from the New Orleans Picayune, Oct. 27]
From Maj. M.C.M. Hammond, U.S.A., who arrived a day or two since from Port Lavacca and San Antonio, Texas, we obtain the following information:
One half of Gen. Wool's army left San Antonio for the Presidio on the Rio Grande on the 20th of September. The General went in person on the 29th. The remainder, consisting of sixteen companies of Illinois infantry and four companies of Arkansas cavalry, were under command of Col. Churchill, Inspector General U. S. A. Between the 5th and 8th of October eight of these companies marched, commanded by Col. Hardin; and Col. Churchill was to have conducted the remainder on the 14th, leaving one or two companies in garrison at Bexar, to protect supplies and turnish [sic] escorts.
Gen, W. expected to reach Presidio in twelve days. He will establish a depot at that point, until it is ascertained whether steamers can ascend the Rio Grande to a position more suitable for his operations. His army will cross the river on a flying bridge, boats for which were constructed at San Antonio, under the direction of Capt. Fraser, engineer, and were transported in wagons. The river at the crossing is said to be near 400 yards wide, from 50 to 100 of which are swimming, and with a rapid current of six miles the hour. If opposed by a considerable force, the passage would be exceedingly difficult and could not be effected without great loss.
Col. Harney's command, in July, were compelled to swim about sixty yards, and the stream so scattered them, that 100 resolute men, as asserted by some of his officers could have prevented their landing.
As soon as supplies are received to enable him to advance, Gen. Wool will press on to Chihuahua, taking Santa Rosa and Monclova in his route. The former town is garrisoned with regular troops, and is said to be capable of strong resistance. This line of operations is longer than might be selected, but it has the advantage of turning the mountain passes of abundance of water and some provisions and runs within 70 or 80 miles of Gen. Taylor's, when cooperation can be readily elected if necessary.
Gen. Wool has exhibited great activity and energy in preparing for the march. On arriving at San Antonio, on the 14th of August, he was far in advance of his army and his supplies and met with innumerable obstacles in procuring wagons, teams, forage and provisions. He moved his forces at the earliest practicable moment, with so limited a number of rations as scarcely to justify his advance.
It is found impossible to transport supplies by water to the Presidio or other point on the Rio Grande whence to furnish the army, it will be necessary to haul all their provisions from Port Lavacca, by way of San Antonio, a distance to Chihuahua of nearly 800 miles, and through a country in rainy seasons almost impassable for heavy wagons. It will be seen that this enterprise is gigantic, and its accomplishment will be an achievement more arduous and more creditable than a brilliant victory.
The command consists of the following officers and troops:
STAFF:
Col. Churchill, Insp. Gen. U. S. Army; Capt. Prentiss, Asst. Adjt. Gen.; Lients. McDowell and Bryan, Aid de Camps.
Capts. Lee and Fraser, Corps Engineers,
Capt. Hughes, and Lieutenants Sitgreaves and Franklin, Topographical Engineers.
Lieutenant Kingdbury, Ordance Corps.
Major Thomas, Quarter Masters Captains Cross, Wall, Chapman and Chilton, Assistant Quartermasters.
Dr. Hitchcock, Medical Director; Drs. Simpson, Levely, and several Volunteer Surgeons.
LINE:
1 Company Light Artillery;
2 do. 1st Dragoons;
2 do. 2d Dragoons;
1 Regiment Arkansas Cavalry;
3 Compnies 6th Regular Infantry;
1 do. Kentucky Infantry;
2 Regiments Illinois Infantry.
The Kentucky Regiment of Cavalry left Lavacca on the 13th October for
Matamoras. About forty of them had died , fifty to seventy had
been discharged, and one hundred sick were sent to Matamoras by water.
At one time it was said that three hundred men were on the sick report.
The Tennessee Cavalry followed the Kentucky Regiment on the 16th.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c3 Letter From General Butler
LETTER FROM GEN. BUTLER PARTICULARS OF HIS CHARGE HIS WOUNDBRAVERY OF HIS TROOPS ABANDONMENT OF HIS ATTACK. & c.
The following are extracts from a letter of Gen. Butler to a near relative in Louisville, Ky. The General says, in the same letter that it is the opinion of those Mexican officers who have been taken prisoners by our army, that their Government will at once offer to ours terms of peace:
MONTEREY, SEPT. 25, 1846
Monterey is ours, but not without a heavy loss, and my division has probably sustained more than one half of it. I am myself wounded, but not badly. I was struck by a musket ball below the knee; it entered in front, grazed the bones without injuring them, ranged round through the flesh and came out on the opposite side.
I became faint from loss of blood, and was compelled to leave the field after having been in it under a heavy fire of grape and musketry for three hours. I have been required by my surgeon to keep perfectly still, ever since the battle.
I was in the act of leading the Ohio Regiment to storm two of the most formidable batteries in the town, flanked by a stone wall, ten feet high, with a deep ditch in front, and covered by a strong musketry force in the rear, under complete shelter. There were two other batteries of grapeshot discharged, that swept the ground continually.
Col. Mitchell, who commanded the regiment of Ohio volunteers, was wounded about the same time that I was, and we then prudently abandoned the enterprise, as we became convinced that our loss would have been, probably, at least one hundred more men, had we persevered.
I hope you will not think I acted rashly. I know that I am often rash where I involve myself alone; not so, however, when the fate of others is at stake.
The condition in which we were placed fully justified, if it did not positively require us to make the attempt. The peculiarity of our situation I cannot now explain without going into greater detail than I am able to do.
The battle commenced about 9 o'clock A. M., and continued without intermission, with various degrees of intensity for eight hours.
I had almost 1000 men in the battle, (the Louisville Legion having been left to guard our mortars.) and of the number we lost in killed and wounded about 250.
We took one battery and a house fided [sic] up as a fortification, and assisted the regulars in taking a second. Gen Worth, with great gallantry and equal success, and with far less loss, carried on his operations on the opposite side of the town.
The loss of the regulars who acted with us, was nearly proportional to ours, as I learn, though I have not seen the official returns.
Under all these circumstances, the terms of the capitulation are favorable to us. There are still several strong forts in the hands of the enemy, which we would have been compelled to take by regular approaches or with heavy losses. The plaza is of itself an enormous fortification of continuous houses, with thick stone walls, and all the streets leading into it strongly fortified and filled with guns.
They admit that they will have at least 8,000 fighting men, whilst on our part we cannot muster 5,000 for duty, and have only a few heavy guns, and them we took from them.
Never, I believe, did troops, both volunteers and regulars, behave with
more calmness and intrepidity, and I do not believe that for downright, straightforward,
hard fighting, the battle of Monterey has ever been surpassed.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c5 THE MEXICAN WAR
The Republican pronounces our war with Mexico as "flagrantly unjust" being produced entirely by the reckless policy of marching an army to the Rio Grande, and occupying territory which was, "at best, debateable [sic] ground." We on the contrary, look upon the war as founded upon as just and righteous grounds, as far as we are concerned, as any that History records. It was forced upon us, against all our endeavors for peace, and while we were defending our own soil, which it would have been highly criminal to abandon to foreign invasion.
While, then, we have no hope of convincing the Republican of the justice of the war, we deem it proper to recapitulate the grounds upon which we base our claim to the territory between the Nueces and the Rio Grande, which General Taylor was ordered to hold and protect.
First, the Treaty between Houston and Santa Anna, by which the Rio Grande, throughout its whole length, was made the boundary between Texas and Mexico, and this boundary was also recognized by the Texan Congress of 1836. Indeed the territory between the Nueces and the Rio Grande, was represented in the Convention in Texas, and in the Texan Congress, and called San Patricio. After the Annexaton of Texas, the United States' revenue laws were thrown over it, and provision made for a superintendent or inspector, South of the Nueces.
It was part and parcel of the ancient province of Louisiana, ceded by France to the United States, for a valuable consideration. Jefferson and Madison recognized the Rio Grande as the true original limit of Louisiana, and contended that Spain never had a right to any possession beyond that river.
We admitted Texas with that territory into the Union, and as such, she was previously recognized as an independent nation by England, France and Holland.
In sending our army, then, to protect that territory, which was clearly a part of the U. States, the President acted in exact conformity to his solemn oath.
But, says the Republican, had Gen. Taylor remained at Corpus Christi,
(itself beyond the Neuces,) there would have been no conflict of arms. This
theory is disproved by the fact, that despatches [sic] from the Mexican President
to General Arista were intercepted, in which instructions were given to the
latter to cross the Rio Grande, which was accordingly done, and the
first act of war consummated on the part of Mexico. For our lives, with
these facts before us, we cannot see the "flagrant injustice" of this war,
as far as our country is concerned.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c6 CAPT. STEWART
[Baltimore Sun]
We learn (says the Baltimore Sun,) that Gov. Pratt received on
Saturday, from Gen. Taylor, an official announcement of the death of Lieut.
Col. Wm. H. Watson, also informing him that Capt. Stewart had been promoted
by seniority, as well as by the "unanimous" voice of the officers of the
Baltimore battalion, to the vacancy thus occasioned. Gov. Pratt immediately
forwarded the document to the President of the United States, with the recommendation
that Capt. Stewart be officially confirmed as Lieut. Colonel of the battalion,
and we have no doubt that his commission is now enroute to the "seat
of war".
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c5 ET TU BRUTE!
The Whig has utterly failed to raise a storm from the Whig press against the "gross outrage" and "unwarrantable usurpation" carried out in "Brigadier General Governor Kearney's" Proclamation, "annexing" the whole of New Mexico, in violation of the Constitution and of international law! Some of its Whig associates are not only "mute," but actually sanction the "despotic" proceeding! What will the Whig and National Intelligencer say to the following remarks of the Whig Herald of Norfolk? "Speaking of guns," have those horrorstricken journals ever informed their readers that this "Proconsol of the President" this "Brigadier General Governor Kearney" is a Whig?
"It is wrong to bring in question the politics of those who fight their
country's battles. For our part, without knowing or caring to know, the
politics of Gen. Kearney, when we read his proclamation we saw no reason
to censure his course. For the present, his proclamation
may serve a good purpose; but unless ratified by the higher powers of the
Government, it can only prove a mere brutum fulmen.".
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c5 Corresponence, Baltimore Sun
[CORRESPONDENCE OF THE BALTIMORE SUN]
Washington, 1st November 1846
IMPORTANT Despatches have been received from General Kearney, who is hale and hearty at Santa Fe, fortifying it according to the most approved rule of Vauban, and erecting a Fort which, in honor of the present Secretary of War, he has called "Fort Marcy."
General Kearney finds the people of New Mexico in excellent spirits, and delighted with the prospects of becoming citizens of the United States. It is as if their property, their lives, and their prosperity had been insured to them, and they were now permitted to draw the first free breath of life.
Our troops throughout received nothing but the kindest treatment from the inhabitants, and were well pleased with their vocation. Their wants were liberally supplied by the hospitable people of that province, and they were treated not as enemies, but as deliverers of the country.
The General made an excursion South, about one hundred miles to the village of Tome, without meeting any resistance, and it is probable the Mexican Government entertains no idea of disputing us the quiet possession of that country. It has certainly provided no means for its defence [sic], and alienated the affection of the people, whom it only plundered by the appointment of some military favorite as Governor.
General Kearney will probably effect a junction with our forces on the
Pacific, in order to take possession of California . It is thought
he will arrive there in November, consequently quite in time for the anticipated
movement of our troops. He may for that purpose take the Southern route
down the Del Norte, follow the Gila, cross the Colorado, and take up his march
along the Pacific. Quivivra, verra.
[AMB]
Friday, November 6, 1846 REv43i55p4c3 THE ARMY OF CHIHUAHUA
[from the New Orleans Picayune, Oct. 27]
From the Maj. M.C. M. Hammond, U. S. A., who arrived a day or two since from Port Lavacca and San Antonio. Texas, we obtain the following information:
One half of Gen. Wool's army left San Antonio for the Presidio on the Rio Grande on the 26th of September. The General went in person on the 29th. The remainder, consisting of sixteen companies of Illinois infantry and four companies of Arkansas cavalry, were under command of Col. Churchill, Inspector General U. S. A. Between the 5th and 8th of October eight of these companies marched, commanded by Col. Hardin; and Col. Churchill was to have conducted the remainder on the 14th, leaving one or two companies in garrison at Bexar, to protect supplies and furnish escorts.
Gen. W. expected to reach Presidio in twelve days. He will establish a depot at that point, until it is ascertained whether steamers can ascend the Rio Grande to a position more suitable for his operations. His army will cross the river on a flying bridge, boats for which were constructed at San Antonio, under the direction of Capt. Fraser, engineer, and were transported in wagons. The river at the crossing is said to be near 400 yards wide, from 50 to 100 of which are swimming, and with a rapid current of six miles the hour. If opposed by a considerable force, the passage would be exceedingly difficult and could not be effected without great loss.
Col. Harney's command, in July, were compelled to swim about sixty yards, and the stream so scattered them, that 100 resolute men, as asserted by some of his officers could have prevented their landing.
As soon as supplies are received to enable him to advance, Gen. Wool will press on to Chihuahua, taking Santa Rosa and Monclova in his route. The former town is garrisoned with regular troops, and is said to be capable of strong resistance. This line of operations is longer than might be selected, but it has the advantage of turning the mountain passes of abundance of water and some provisions and runs within 70 or 80 miles of Gen. Taylor's, when cooperation can be readily effected if necessary.
Gen. Wool has exhibited great activity and energy in preparing for the march. On arriving at San Antonio, on the 14th of August, he was far in advance of his army and his supplies and met with innumerable obstacles in procuring wagons, teams, forage and provisions. He moved his forces at the earliest practicable moment, with so limited a number of rations as scarcely to justify his advance.
If it is found impossible to transport supplies by water to the Presido
or other point on the Rio Grande whence to furnish the army, it will be necessary
to haul all their provisions from Port Lavacca by way of San Antonio a distance
to Chihuahua.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p1c4 Major General William O. Butler
From the The Enquirer, Richmond, VA
Monday Morning, November 9, 1846,
MAJ. GEN. WM. O. BUTLER
In justice to this distinquished and gallant officer, and as a refutation of the charges of an infuriated party press, we give place to the following, from the New Orleans Delta of the 30th October. These charges, conflicting as they did with each other, were, first, that General Butler rashly exposed his troops to the destructive fire of the Mexicans, and secondly, that he exhibited a [wa... ][word unreadable] of nerve in storming the enemy's batteries. We were confident that the charges had their origin in partisan feelings, and so expressed ourselves. We are glad to see that several Whig papers, and among others the Louisville Journal, have stepped forward to do justice to the reputation of a gallant officer. But to the article from the N.O. Delta:
"The statement of a letterwriter, published in the Baltimore Sun,
in regard to an alleged difficulty between Generals Taylor and Butler, on
the occasion of the desperate charge which proved so fatal to Col. Garland's
brigade, causing the death of Col. Watson, of the Baltimore volunteers, and
many other distinquished officers, is, we are assured by good authority,
totally untrue. Col. Garland's brigade was detached, and had orders
to advance under the direction of Maj. Mansfield of the Engineers, and if
he encountered a battery to take it. The brigade, however, advanced
nearer to the town than was prudent, and was suddenly opened upon from three
distinct forts, of the existence of which neither General Taylor, Maj. Mansfield,
nor Col. Garland, had any idea at the time of the advance. Gen. Butler
had nothing to do with this command; it acted under the express orders of
Gen. Taylor."
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p1c4 DEATHS OF COL. WM. S. FISHER AND CAPT. FRANCIS S. EARLY
The Southern mail of Saturday morning brought us the painful news of the death of two distinguished officers, viz: Col. Wm. S. Fisher, formerly of Richmond and son of the late Mr. James Fisher and Capt. Francis S. Early; both of whom died at Galveston, Texas, on the 26th of October. Mr. Kendall, one of the Editors of the N. O. Picayune, writing from Galveston on the 27th of October, says:
"From Monterey to Matamoras, among both Americans and Mexicans, a great
deal of sickness prevails chills and fevers and intermitting fevers. I
have come in for more than a full share of both, but am now on the mend.
I regret to state that two able officers died here last night and are to
be buried this afternoon Col. Wm. S. Fisher, who commanded the noted Mier
expedition, and Capt. Francis S. Early, who commanded the Washington company
of Texas Rangers at the battles of Monterey. The former had just married
a young and accomplished wife; the latter was hourly expecting his family
to meet him at this place."
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p1c7 From Vera Cruz
[from the N.O. Picayune]
FROM VERA CRUZ
We have nothing of importance from Mexico by way of Havana but have been admitted to make an extract from a commerical [sic] letter of a late date. It is from a [ . . . ] to all respect:
Vera Cruz, Oct. 1, 1846.
Dear Sir: There is very little news worth reporting. The present
government is trying to render itself popular by a series of rather liberal
measures, and appears willing to recommence the campaign more rigorously.
Gen. Santa Anna is about to leave Mexico in order to assume the generalship
in chief of the troops concentrated in San Luis Potosi; but we confess to
have the very worst opinion of the Mexican army, and do not believe that
they will make any vigorous resistance to the American troops. The main difficulty will be, moreover, the entire want of money, as in the
coffers of the treasury there is not even enough wherewith to pay the most
necessary and urgent exigences, and the credit of Government is very much
shaken indeed. It is true that the clergy will guarantee a loan of some
millions of dollars, but we do not believe that this amount will be procured,
and even if it were undoubtedly the largest part will consist in Government
paper, which is very difficult to realize in this moment.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p1c7
Letter to the Editor[from the New Orleans Delta, November 2]
LETTER TO THE EDITOR FROM MEXICO
By the brig. P. Soule, from Havana, we have received our files of Mexican papers. The dates from the capital are to the 26th September.
We find nothing in the later numbers about the departure of Santa Anna towards Monterey. So far from that, he was still in the capital mustering his forces for the contemplated expedition.
The Diario del Gobierno says that all the rich people of Mexico would do well in following Santa Anna's example contributing liberally towards the support of the war or else the mob would go where they knew the money was, and take it to the soldiers who defended the country. Then it adds, that the Clergy had consented to mortage [sic] their property for $2,000,000; that the merchants and wealthy citizens of Mexico would deliver to the Government on the 25th September $500,000 for the purpose of the war; that the same amount would be delivered on the 5th October, and equal sums would be paid every month.
Senor [Gomez de] la Cortina had made himself a loan of $50,000, without
any conditions as to premium or time of reimbursement.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p1c7 LATER FROM MONTEREY
[from the New Orleans Tropic, Oct. 31]
The steamship Palmetto, Lewis arrived last night, in 36 hours from Galveston. Among the passengers, were Dr. Conrad and Lieut. Nichols, U. S. A.; Lieuts. Dorfendorf, Price, (reported dead,) Smith and Smedes, of the Mississippi volunteers, and Lieut. Read, of the Texas Rangers, with 41 volunteers.
Lieut. Col. McClung was rapidly recovering from the effects of his wounds. One of the officers of his Regiment informs us that the gallant Colonel was the first man that showed himself on the first fort stormed by General Taylor's Division, and that he received his wounds whilst waving his sword aloft, and cheering on his men, shouting "Victory!". The musket ball struck him on his left hand whilst holding his scabbard to his hip, and cut off two of his fingers, glancing from the scabbard and entering his abdomen, fracturing, in its course, the bone above the hipjoint.
General Ampudia has issued another proclamation since his retreat from
Monterey, calling upon the Mexicans to flock to his standard to repel the
invaders of their soil. His excuse, in the proclamation, for defeat at Monterey,
and the surrender of that city to our troops, is A WANT OF AMMUNITION!
The utter falsity of this statement is well known, for any quantity of ammunition
was found at Monterey after the capitulation.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p2c5 ENGLISH VIEWS OF THE MEXICAN WAR
[From the London Spectator]
WHAT CAN BE DONE FOR MEXICO? It is high time that we in England should take into serious consideration the question, What can be done to save the miserable and impotent Republic of Mexico from extinction as an independent nation? Apart from all the problematical evil consequences of its absorption into the United States and they are momentous the fate of Mexico has an immediate practical importance for all classes of men in this country, being inseparably identified with that of a vast amount of British capital. Expunge Mexico from the list of nations, and with the same blow you put out the fires on thousands of English hearths. Already we have suffered enough by the waste and decay of the wealth we have invested in that country the annihilation of what remains would scatter bankruptcy among our merchants, paralyze our industry, disorder all the functions of our national life and spread starvation among our working classes. And this is the conclusion to which events are tending in a rapid and accumulating flood, that must inevitably bear down all such flimsy barriers as Santa Anna's countrymen can set up against it.
That the United States are bent on seizing the whole Mexican territory, is a fact they scarcely condescend to disguise. The manner in which they intend to effect their purpose is also apparent; it is the same as that by which they have already secured Texas; the same piratical system as that by which they had begun to possess themselves of Louisiana, before they had the opportunity of acquiring it in the more legitimate way of purchase. The present petty warfare they are waging on the frontier is but an episode in the great plot. Gen. Taylor's force is but the precursor of the real army of invasion the squatter and backwoodsman men in whom it is a hereditary and invincible instinct always to depart from before the approach of civilization, to avoid every spot where law has become established, and never to feel themselves thoroughly at home except on debatable ground. [By men like these, coming by two and threes, then by scores and hundreds, and finally in multitudes, like carrion birds to the quarry, the Northern provinces of the Republic will be overrun; and thence the process will be continued until the whole territory is filled and mastered by these unprincipled and desperately energetic immigrants.] Already many of the provinces have shown a willing alacrity to meet the destiny they foresee; not from any affection they bear to their encroaching neighbors, but because they are weary of anarchy, hopeless of relief from their own wretched nominal Governments, and eager to accede to the blessings of law and order from any power strong enough to secure them.
Mexico must be tranquilized, and her strength consolidated by good and stable government, or she is lost. This has long been felt by her allies; and they have even suggested and indirectly urged the adoption of the means that seemed to them most likely to bring about the desired result. The proposed panacea was the conversion of the Republic into a Monarchy, the sceptre [sic] of which should be swayed by some European Royal cadet, It is needless to discuss the abstract inherits of this plan, since it is a mere figment of political speculation, at present beyond the scope of any practical discussion.
There is but one sure way to save Mexico, and that is to transfer fresh,
healthly blood into her languid veins; to colonize a portion of her magnificent
territory with a people worthy to occupy and able to defend it. If Mexico
were to mingle a portion of the AngoSaxon element with their population,
she might venture to cope with the moiety of that indomitable race that now
threatens her existence. In our paper, last week, on the project of cutting
a shipcanal through the great American isthmus, we pointed out the admirable
opportunity now offered for peopling the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, and realizing
the incalculable natural advantages of one of the most eligible commerical
[sic] sites on the face of the globe. That majestic region teeming with
boundless wealth, washed by two oceans, traversed through half its breadth
by a navigable river, which offers at its mouth the finest harbor in the
Gulf of Mexico, may now be secured by Englishmen. Will they refuse
to accept a region which was selected by the sagacious mind of the great conqueror
Cortez to constitute his own private domain If so, the French will be delighted
to grasp the prize we disdain.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p2c6 MARINE JOURNAL
PORT OF RICHMOND
High Water this day, at 7 1/2 o'clock, A. M.
ARRIVED,
Schr. Levenlank, Spiney, Philadelphia.
Schr. Americus, Wheeler, Baltimore.
SAILED,
Schr. Independence, Kerwan, Norfolk.
Schr. Iowa, Travers, Baltimore.
CLEARED,
French barque Olympe, Raoult, for Havre with tobacco and slaves.
Brig Keying, Flanders, for Liverpool, with tobacco, flour, corn, meal and apples.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p2c1 MARINE CORPS
For pay of officers, non commissioned officers, musicians, privates, and servants, serving on shore, and subsistence of officers two hundred thousand seven hundred and seventyone dollars: Provided, That no payment shall hereafter be made to the Colonel, or any other officer of said corps, by virtue of a commission of brigader general by brevet;
For clothing, fortysix thousand seven hundred and eighty seven dollars and fifty cents;
For provisions, fortyfive thousand seventy dollars and twenty cents.
For military stores, repair of arms, pay of armorers, accoutremen's, ordnance stores, flags, drums, fifes, and musical instruments, two thousand three hundred dollars.
For transportation of officers and troops, and for expenses of recruiting, eight thousand dollars;
For repair of barracks and rent of temporary barracks, six thousand dollars;
For contingencies, viz: freight, ferriage, toll, wharfage [sic] and cartage; compensation to judge advocates; per diem for attending courts martial and courts of inquiry; per diem to enlisted men on constant labor; house rent where no public quarters are assigned; the burial of deceased marines; printing, stationery, forage, postages, and the prusuit of deserters; candles and oil; straw, barrack furniture; bed sacks, spades, axes, shovels, picks, carpenter's tools, and keeping a horse for the messenger, seventeen thousand nine hundred and eighty dollars.
Sec 2. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Navy, on the conclusion of the existing war with Mexico, to reduce the number of petty officers , seamen, ordinary seamen, landsman, and boys, herein provided for, to seven thousand five hundred.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Navy, in the expenditure of the appropriations made for the navy yard at Memphis, to confine the same to the construction of a rope walk.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That of the money appropriated in this
act for "pay of the navy,".
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p3c1 POETICAL.
A fair friend has sent us the following beautiful lines as appropriate to the present moment. All will appreciate their spirit, when applied to the brilliant victories of our army, but which cost the country much of its best blood. Let the solemn dirge be chanted in memory of the gallant soldiers who fell on the Rio Grande and at Monterey and let martial strains swell upon the air in honor of the living heroes of those hardfought fields. It would be cruel and heartless to desecrate such thrilling associations by mingling them with the light and frivolous amusements or enjoyments of the hour:
On seeing the "Waterloo Waltz" in a list of Music.
A moment pause, ye British fair,
While Pleasure's phantom ye pursue,
And see if dance or sprightly air
Suit with the name of Waterloo!Glorious was the victory,
Chasten'd should the triumph be;
Midst the laurels she has won,
Britain weeps for many a son.Veil'd in clouds the morning rose,
Nature seem'd to mourn the day
Which consign'd, before its close,
Thousands to their kindred clay.How unfit for court or ball,
Or the giddy festival,
Was the grim and ghastly view,
Ere they closed at Waterloo!See the Highland warrior rushing,
First in danger on the foe,
Till the lifeblood warmly gushing,
Lays the plaided hero low;His native pipes' accustom'd sound,
Mid war's infernal concert drown'd,
Cannot soothe his last adieu,
Or wake his sleep on Waterloo.Crashing o'er the cuirassier,
See the foaming charger flying,
Trampling in his wild career,
All alike, the dead and dying:See the bullets through his side,
Answered by the crimson tide;
Helmet, horse, and rider too!
Roll on bloody Waterloo.Shall sounds like these the dance inspire?
A wake the enliv'ning sounds of mirth?
Oh! shivered be the recreant lyre
That gave the base idea birth.Other sounds I ween were there,
Other music rent the air,
Other waltz the warrior knew
When they closed at Waterloo.Forbear, till Time, with lenient hand,
Has heal'd the pang of recent sorrow,
And let the picture distant stand,
The soften'd tone of years to borrow.When our race has passed away,
Hand unborn shall wake the lay,
And give to joy alone the view.
Of Britian's fame at Waterloo.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p3c1 Latest From Havana
By the packet brig. P. Soule, the New Orleans Delta has received its regular files of Havana papers to the 24th October. They are filled with accounts of the hurricane of the 10th and 11th Oct. On the 10th, (being the Queen's birthday,) the city, and particularly the port, presented the most gay and pleasant appearance every vessel in the harbor flaunting its colors at its masthead. The next day all was desolation and ruin. Dead bodies, fragments of vessels, bales of goods, produce, &c., were seen scattered in wild confusion over the angry surge. Over 1500 houses were razed to the ground in Havana and neighboring cities!
About 90 persons had already been found dead among the ruins of the city,
and many more were expected to be found. The Havana papers
say the gale of 1844 was slight compared to this. Property to
a considerable amount had also been destroyed in Matanzas, Cardenas, and
some 30 or 40 of the neighboring towns. There were 160 vessels
lost and injured in the port of Havana among them were 16 American merchantmen.
The packet ship Mudara, arrived from N. York on the 10th, was nearly
lost. The Government had issued orders for supplying the destitute
with the necessaries of life. The "Principal" Theatre, one of the finest
public buildings in Havana, was destroyed.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 10, 1846 REv43i56p3c1 Miscellaneous
[FROM THE CHARLESTON MERCURY]
There is one feature in the extracts we yesterday published from Mexican Papers, that deserves to be noticed. There is no more of the oldfashioned, bragging and blustering. Their tone is despondent, and in their humility, they allow the truth to escape that the Government is without means, the provinces without courage or preparation, and they are beset by a determined, active and powerful enemy. The bloodless conquest of California and New Mexico the advance of Gen. Wool upon Chihuahua with as little prospect of serious opposition the rapid march of Gen. Taylor upon Monterey were events that singly were exciting enough; but, all together, they overwhelmed the Capital with terrior and amazement. At the time these extracts were written, there remained one hope of safety to the Republic, in a successful defence [sic] of Monterey. The following letter from a Mexican, written a day before the arrival of Gen. Taylor, shows how much was expected from the preparations at that place:
"Today, if the attack we every moment expect from the Yankees is realized, there is not a doubt but the cause of the people will triumph. Our army has just received a most opportune reinforcement of five thousand men, with sixteen pieces of cannon of the very best quality, so that our whole available force is thirteen thousand seven hundred and fifty regular troops, besides the assistance we may reasonably expect from the inhabitants. Immediately on the arrival of Gen. Ampudia, the city was declared under martial law, but although we are thus deprived of perfect liberty temporarily, we are thankful that we shall soon be recompensed for the deprivation by a great triumph over the enemy.
"Gen. Taylor is at Ceralvo, detained by a scanty supply of mules, but determined to march upon us with his present force of about three thousand men, thinking the city is not guarded. We shall give him a glorious reception indeed, and when the news of his foolhardiness returns to his countrymen, they will know that the glory of the Mexican flag is not to be sullied without a struggle. Our troops are at work day and night barricading the houses, mounting cannon and doing everything to render the city impreguable. A soldier was shot by order of General Ampudia, charged with treason, and a proclamation of death to any engaged in traffic with the Americans, has been issued by our brave Gen. Ampudia."
What a joyous and triumphant spirit breathes through this letter! And yet the anticipations of the writer were really moderate. Doubtless Ampudia had given an exaggerated estimate of his own force and a greatly diminished one of the enemy, for the sake of encouraging his troops; but he could not have deceived them so far as to multiply seven thousand into thirteen thousand. There were certainly not less than ten thousand regular troops in the city, with probably five thousand new levies and these with the advantage of a powerful artillery and strong fortifications. Gen. Taylor's force was six thousand five hundred men, one half of whom had never seen a battle, and his artillery force was feeble. With such enormous disparity in men, in guns and in the advantage of position, it would have been very strange if the Mexicans had expected anything but a decisive victory, and those who underrate the character of Gen. Taylor's success, do injustice to one of the most brilliant achievements in the annals of war.
If we may judge from the tone of the Mexican journals humbled and despondent, before the capture of Monterey, that event is likely to extinquish [sic] their last hope of successful resistance, and to lead at no distant day to the conclusion of a durable peace. The rumor that Santa Anna was at Saltillo before the end of September with a strong force, is alike destitute of proof and of probability. Still, having accepted the command of the army, he will doubtless try to do something.
His hopes of the Presidency must rest upon his conduct for the next two
months, and hence we look for a show of military operations and perhaps some
substantial fighting; but what is done hereafter will be merely in the way
of making terms for a peace. All idea of maintaining the war with the United
States, as nation against nation, must have ended with the battle of Monterey.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p1c4 NORTHERN WHIGGERY AND ABOLITION
The blindest must see that the course pursued by the Northern Whig press and Whig public meetings, is far from producing that cordial feeling of union between the different sections of the country, which Washington so solemnly and so strongly enforced. With but few exceptions, they denounce the South for selfishness, for aiming at despotic domination, and for shaping her policy so as to sacrifice the rest of the Union to her "slaveholding monopoly." The South cannot support any question of great national benefit it cannot advocate any system of just and equal laws, but the Whig journals and politicans of the North assail her motives as steeped in selfishness, and as looking alone to the extension of slavery. Fired with this wild notion, they raise [....] [missing line(s)]
"We regard such a measure as dangerous to the purity of the elective franchise. We regard the Negroes, as a class, as incapable of selfgovernment. Such is their physical organization, that it is impossible for the whites to associate with them in any relation of life, and that amalgamation with them would be unmitigated degradation. It is impossible that two races, so radically and essentially unlike, can ever harmoniously cooperate in administering a government. While we would guaranty to them the inviolability of their persons and property, and exemption from taxation, we would exclude them altogether from exercising the elective franchise, and recommend to our fellowcitizens to reject this amendment."
While the Northern Whigs are thus intimately allied with the Liberty Party, we rejoice that, with a few exceptions, the Democrats of the North stand by the Union, the rights of the South, and the solemn compromises of the Constitution. They fly the flag of "the Union and the Constitution" at the masthead, and reprobate the disorganizing and mischievous course of the fanatics. On the question of slavery, they practice on the motto of "hands off", leaving it to each state, under the Constitution, to manage its own affairs.
But the Southern Whig press attempt to palliate the recent Abolition movements of the whig party in the Northern States, by ascribing similar sentiments to the Democratic party of the North. The facts we have often presented to our readers show the anatagonistic position of the two parties at the North upon the slavery question. As a specimen of the feelings of the Northern Democracy, we quote the following manly language of the Boston Times:
"But there is no truth in the statements of the Whig papers of the South,
that the Democracy of the North is in favor of agitating the question of Slavery
at the expense of the Constitution and the Union. The Democratic party is
the Union party, the party of the Constitution, and it [...] [unreadable
word] the preservation of the one and the maintenance of the other as the
highest political duty of the American citizen. When democrats
become affected with the incendiary sentiments of the Disunionists [sic],
they are cast off from the party, and find their appropriate position as
the allies of the Federal party. Witness the noted instance of the renegade
Hale, who was once a Democrat, became a furious [opporrst][unreadable]
of the [A....ation][unreadable] of Texas, and agitator of Abolition and
is now the chosen oracle of the Whig or Federal party. The Democratic party
were not like the Whig party, to give itself local strength by avowing Abolition
and Disunion sentiments, but openly denounces all such action as being in
the highest degree dangerous to the premanancy [sic] of the Union, and productive
of nothing but evil. In this respect the proceedings of the recent State
Conventions of the two parties, [...][word unreadable] the clearest evidence
of the truth of our positions."
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p1c6 GENERAL AMPUDIA'S ADDRESS
We give below, from the N. O. Commerical [sic] Times, the address of Ampudia, the GeneralinChief of the army of the North, from his headquarters in Saltillo, in which that renowned and valiant warrior recounts, after his own fashion, the storming and surrender of Monterey. ""This document," (says the Times,) "is less turgid and bombastic in its vein than are most Mexican missives of the kind, with this exception, that Ampudia, with matchless effrontery, boasts of having put fifteen hundred of our soldiers hors de combat in the action of the 21st. At that rate of slaughter, maintained during three days, our army must have been annihilated. If so, why did this potent commander surrender the town to a contempable handful of troops? But Mexican exaggeration never dreams of consulting either credibility or reason. It is intended purely for home consumption, and is doubtless accepted as most veritable by the ignorant populace of the interior."
The General in Chief of the Army of he North, to the Inhabitants of the three Provinces of the East.
Countrymen: The Supreme Government being anxious to attend to the defence [sic] of the rights and the integrity of our beloved Republic, against the enemies who have invaded it, has thought proper to appoint me GeneralinChief of the brave troops destined to that holy purpose in the North. I immediately flew with enthusiam [sic] to this section, my desire to sustain the rights of the people being notorious, and at the commencement of the present month I was in Monterey, dictating and ordering all the measures in my power to repel the advance of our enemies. Thinking, however, that an immense weight was imposed upon me, and feeling my inability, I entreated that his Excellency the Gen. Don Juan Nepomuceno de Aimonte, should come and take the command, supposing that the illustrious conqueror of Panuco would, on his arrival in Mexico, assume the reins of the National Government.
The enemy on the 19th inst, made his appearance near my headquarters at Monterey, and encamped in the wood of Santo Domingo, their encampment being three miles in length, and about nine in circumference. I gave orders to observe diligently all their movements, and to harass them as much as possible, all the generals and chiefs under my command being determined to fight sooner than retire. The citadel or fort of the Monastery, aimed some good shots at the enemy, who employed the day in reconnoitering and preparations for their attack.
They commenced their attack on the 21st with a formidable mass, composed of the greater part of their regular troops, upon the bridge of the Purisima and the forts of Rincon del Diablo and Teneria, but they were victoriously repulsed by our valiant veterans, causing them a positive loss of 1500.
On the 22d, in the morning, Gen. Taylor directed his columns of attack upon the Archbishop's hill, a point commanding the city, and although in their first advance, the enemy suffered severely, they again came to the charge with a brigade composed almost entirely of regular troops, and two of our largest guns and one howitzer (obuss [sic]) were unfortunately blown up. Not withstanding that misfortune, I sent a reinforcement of infantry with two light pieces of artillery, as soon as I was informed of the event. They arrived to late the enemy were already in possession of the position and works. This accident compelled me to concentrate my forces in the Plaza, to enable me to offer a more vigorous defence [sic] to the invaders, and repel, as we did, their attacks upon the streets and houses of Monterey. Under these circumstances, our ammunition and provisions were getting scarce, and not withstanding the valor and energy with which all our combatants, veterans and auxiliaries were animated, I proposed to the General of the enemy to open a conference, by which the national honor, that of our arms and of the particular division under my command, with their arms, equipments and baggage were saved.
This is a true relation of the operations of the campaign up to the 24th inst; and although the scarcity of means, materials, and other circumstances, have compelled us to such a result, we should not for an instant lose our courage, as the Republic will bring into action all its great elements, and with one victory, which we may, shall and must obtain, the problem will be definitively solved in favor of our arms.
People of the East! The alternative that was taken at Monterey is of no great consequence particularly when you bear in mind that in a short time the favorite general of the Mexicans, his Excellency Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, will personally direct the campaign. In the meantime let the sacred flame of love for your country burn in your bosoms, and we shall without doubt, triumph over our enemies.
PEDRO DE AMPUDIA
at Saltillo}
September 29th, 1846)
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p1c7 FROM THE CAMP AT MONTEREY
Last evening the War Department received despatches [sic] from General Taylor. They were writing on the 6th, 11th, 12th, and 13th October. But the detailed official letters on the operations before Monterey did not accompany them much delay having occurred in making out complete returns from the various subordinate commanders of the army. The despatches [sic] which were received last evening are brief and comparatively unimportant in their character.
In his letter of the 6th of October, Gen. Taylor states that he had mustered out of service the entire force of mounted Texas volunteers. One company of Texas foot volunteers, which has rendered excellent service in the campaign, was then on the march to Camargo, there to be mustered out of service.
The General states, that a small force is to be stationed at Laredo on the east bank of the Rio Grande, for the purpose of protecting that frontier of country from Indian depredations, and enabling the Government of Texas to extend its jurisdiction with more facility to the river. With the advice of Governor Henderson, he has authorized General Lamar, exPresident of Texas, to raise a mounted company of eighty men for this service for twelve months. As a very small force is now in service from the State of Texas, he trusts that this step will be approved by the department.
The second infantry, with some of the artillery companies left in the rear, and an additional volunteer force, has been ordered forward to Monterey, together with a heavy battery train.
No credible intelligence has been received from the interior at the date of this letter. General Ampudia, at the last advices, was at Saltillo, probably with the whole or greater part of his army. [ But subsequent accounts, in private letters, report that Ampudia had retreated from Saltillo, and would make San Luis de Potosi his rallying point. He was expected to make a stand there, and perhaps to be joined by Santa Anna, in case Gen. Taylor should extend his advance in that direction.]
The General states, that he had been unable as yet to prepare his detailed official report of the operations before Monterey the last report from his subordinate commanders having been at that moment received. Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing, will vary very little from 500 400 of which was sustained in the attack on the lower part of the city on the 21st.
Lieut. Dilworb 1st infantry had died of the [...] [missing words].
In his last letter, Gen. Taylor deeply regrets the necessity of reporting
the death of the brave Robert H. Graham, 1st Lieut. of 4th Infantry, who
died, on the previous night, of the wounds which he had received in the engagement
of the 21st September. [Union of Wednesday night.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p2c5 GENERAL BUTLER
[from the Union]
We had the pleasure of conversation with an officer today, who camp at
Monterey, which he left on the 5th of October. He engaged in the memorable
action of the 21st, in the Staff of General Quitman, and of course, was one
of the gallant band who suffered most severely on that day. He
states that he was frequently near General Butler during this action, until
he received his wound saw much of what passed on that occasion but saw
or heard nothing to justify the idle rumors which have been in circulation
respecting any difference between General Taylor and General Butler. He added further, that if any such circumstance occurred, he must have heard
it from the persons with whom he associated; but that he heard nothing about
it before he left the camp, nor until he reached the United States. He cannot
entertain a doubt that the whole rumor is gratuitous, and without foundation. [Union.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p2c4 YUCATAN
[N.O. Commercial Times]
Arrived here yesterday, the Mexican schooner Joaquina, from Campeachy and Laguna, loaded with logwood, etc. From what has recently occurred, we presume she will be seized as an enemy's property. It is intended, we are informed, to make an appeal to the authorities at Washington, for an exception to the usual way of proceedings in the case of crafts from a hostile country, in favor of Yucatanese vessels. Among other reasons to be assigned, is the fact that Santa Anna induced the Yucatan Legislature to reannex that country to Mexico, by declaring that all differences between the latter and the United States had been settled. The trick having been discovered, the people of Yucatan, within the last few weeks, have again abandoned the connection, and they are determined to preserve their independent sovereignty. We are assured that a proclamation has been lately issued by the governing powers in Yucatan, to the inhabitants, announcing this resolution. The Captain of the Joaquina, it is stated, brought a copy of it hither.
Information has reached the city from Laguna, that it was the general
report there, that all the ports of Yucatan, above all Campeachy, would be
blockaded by the U. S. vessels of war. [N. O. Commerical Times.]
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p2c6 ATTACKS ON GENERAL BUTLER
It has afforded us no pleasure to comment upon the course which a great portion of the Whig press has pursed with respect to the Mexican war, from its inception down to the present day. Although we condemned the manner in which they have spoken of the measures of the Government and the movements of the country's army; yet we hoped that when blows were struck when our brave men were in gallant action no voice of censure or defamation would have been heard. Not so, however! The fangs of party violence have been outstretched and pierce the heart and wound the reputation of the brave soldier even when performing his duty in the thickest of fight. But the mark is illustrious and intangible! He will defy and outlive all calumny.
Major General Butler is no soldier of yesterday. He is no volunteer for love of adventure no officer for want of employment. He has been familiar, in past years, with service, and he has seen battles long before he ever reached Monterey. He was the honored and admired of Andrew Jackson until his death of Jackson who was not to be deceived about a matter of personal courage. Let his detractors his partisan defamers go on and make the most of their idle undertaking. He will stand before the country as he did before, high in reputation, untarnished in honor even though some event during the present war do not vindicate him.
In the meantime, we are glad to republish the following from a political opponent, The Martinsburg, Va, Gazette:
"We have been exceedingly pained to observe the papers generally of the country teeming with accounts from the army, derogatory to the military character, skill and bravery of Major General Butler. We have never for single moment believed that there was one word of truth in any of them, and as to angry words, & c., passing between him and Gen. Taylor, we are almost positively certain that no such occurence ever took place. It is true the division under Gen. Butler suffered very severely, but it was from no fault of his that we can see his position was a trying one, and the very fact that he led his men to the charge amid so much danger, and amid so merciless, constant and destructive a fire as he did at once places the lie upon the charge made against him of a want of courage. That he lacked prudence, might perhaps have been the case, but where is the evidence of it? Does Gen. Taylor say so in his despatches [sic] to Government? No, on the contrary, he returns his thanks especially to Maj. Generals Butler, Henderson, and Brig. Gen. Worth, for the gallant and [em...] [unreadable word] services rendered to him. Do any of the leading officers, in their accounts of the battle, make any charges against him? NoneNone, that we can see. Let the country then beware what confidence they place in the newspaper correspondence which they see from Monterey, or any other point of the army. In justice let us remember our gallant officers and men who are now periling their lives and the all in their field of battle, and surround them with the good wishes and prayers of our whole hearts. Let no man be condemned upon rumors. In our comments upon the conduct of the army, let us wait for official dispatches. We care not what may be the political complexion of the officers and men of our army it is not our business to inquire now they are our countrymen that is enough for us . We know that Major General Butler is a prominent Democrat, and very strenuous in his opinions and course but what of that? is he not our countryman? and engaged now in the defence [sic] of our common country? Surely, most surely, then, is he entitled to the regard and affection of his countrymen, until he does something to forfeit that regard. Were General Butler now a candiate for political office or preferment in this country, we should vote against him, because we know the doctrines of his political creed, and we do not believe in their truth or adaptation to the glory and prosperity of our country. But as a man we like him as a soldier we honor him, and the page of history bears honorable testimony to his gallantry in the last war; and now at Monterey he has again sealed his bravery and his devotion to his country with his blood. we are glad to learn that the gallant old soldier is recovering from his wounds, and hope he may live to do signal service to his country, and brand the lie upon his revilers."
We also annex the following from the N. Orleans Bulletin, (Whig:)
"GENERAL BUTLER We regret to see that some of the Northern papers are
publishing letters from the army, reflecting on Gen. Butler's conduct in
the recent affair at Monterey, the tenor of them being that, contrary to
Gen. Taylor's orders or intentions, he had converted what was intended to
be a feint into a real attack, by which his command was unnecessarily exposed
in street fighting with the Mexicans in the houses or protected by parapet
walls, and that a greatly increased loss of life on our part was the consequence.
We do not so much blame the writers of these letters as we do the recipients
of them, as they were probably only meant for private information, and not
intended for publication. The American people, however, will not be particularly
disposed to find fault with any one for a little extra display of gallantry
in action, though we think it rather hard for General Butler, that he should,
in any way, be censured on the present occasion, when we recollect that no
fault or information of the kind has been furnished by the Commanderinchief,
but who, on the contrary, speaks in high terms of him in his official dispatches."
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p2c1 LATER FROM THE ARMY!
[from the N.O. Picayune, Nov. 3]
By the arrival of the Galveston, Capt. Wright, we are placed in possession of our correspondence from Monterey from the 1st to the 16th of October. The letters of Mr. Haile contain the first announcement we have seen of the death of Lieut. Graham, of the 4th Infantry. He died on the evening of the 11th of October, universally lamented. The wounded generally are doing well. Hopes are entertained that Maj. Lear, of the 3rd Infantry, may recover, although so terribly wounded. We are sorry to learn that fever and ague is beginning to prevail extensively in the army. The accounts we have from the troops in the valley of the Rio Grande are truly distressing.
In the Matamoras Flag we have portions of a correspondence between Gen. Taylor and the Governor of Monterey, in which the former gives an indication of the policy to be pursued in regard to the subsistence of the army. We will no longer detain the reader from the interesting letters of our correspondent:
Monterey, Mexico, Oct. 1, 1846
Gentlemen The weather begins to admonish us that winter is not far off. The mornings are quite cool, rendering overcoats, and even fires, very comfortable. Everything begins to assume a quiet aspect in this region. The troops are entering into quarters for the next two months the wounded are receiving every attention from the surgeons, and are placed in excellent rooms the ammunition is nearly removed from the Cathedral, (a magnificent building outside and in.) and religious services will soon be performed in it. The ships, billiardrooms, eating houses and mechanic shops are opening again. Families are returning, confidence is taking the place of distrust towards us with the Mexicans, and I believe that a majority of the best people here are glad that our army has driven off Ampudia and his thievish soldiery. Gen. Taylor has published his order of congratulation one of the most chaste and perfect documents of the kind I ever saw but you can judge for yourself, for I sent you a copy.
[A copy of these orders has already appeared in our columns]
The following order has been published in the 2d Division. Gen Worth may well exult over the achievements of his division, for he has been immortalized by them.
Orders No. 39
HEADQUARTERS, SECOND DIVISION
Monterey, Sept. 28, 1846
The Commanding General of the Division seizes the first instant of leisure to tender to the officers and soldiers of his command the expression of his thanks and admiration. During the three day's operations, down to the final capitulation of this important position, until after they have seen nearly twice their numbers defile before them in retreat whether on the fatiguing march, in combat in the valley or on the mountains, on the housetops or in the streets, this noble Division has given an exhibition of courage, constancy and discipline above all praise, and a generous and manly forbearance towards fallen and humiliated foes, which bear comparison with the proudest achievements that grace the annals of their country.
The General feels assured that every individual in the command unites with him in admiration of the distinguished gallantry and conduct of Col. Hays and his noble band of Texas volunteers hereafter they and we are brothers, and we can desire no better guarantee of success than by their association.
To Brigadier General Smith, commanding 2d Brigade: Lieut Col. Staniford, 1st Brigade; Lieut. Col. Childs, Army Battalion, Maj. [ ...illegible . . . ]
Capt. Miles, 7th Infantry; Capt. Smith, 2d Artillery, commanding light troops; Capt. Seriven, 8th Infantry; to Capt. Blanchard, Louisiana volunteers; Lieut. Col. Duncan and Lieut. Mackall, he tenders all thanks and respect. To the gentlemen of the staff, Maj. Munroe, Chief of Artillery; Capt. Saunders, Military engineer; Lieut. Deas, Division Quartermaster; Lieut. Daniels, Division Commissariat: Lieut. Meade, Topographical Engineers; Lieut. Pemberton and Wood, AidsdeCamp, his special thanks are due, for the alacity, zeal and gallantry with which they have performed every service. To Col. Peyton, Louisiana volunteers, who did im the honor to tender his very acceptable services as AiddeCamp, he feels under especial obligations for his valuable counsel and splendid exhibition of courage.
To the General himself, the highest and proudest gratification is, that such fortunate results have been attained with comparatively so small sacrifice of the precious blood of the soldier.
By order of Brig. Gen. WORTH:
J. C. PEMBERTON,
1st. Lieut. and AiddeCamp.
The wounded are doing well, better than was at first expected. Maj. Lear, who was so horribly wounded through the mouth, the ball coming out at the back of the neck, shattering the jawbone and palate, will, it is hoped recover. His son, a young gentlemen of twenty, is fortunately with him. Lieutenant Richard { l. Graham, of the 4th Infantry, died of his wounds last night. Gen. Butler, who was shot through the leg, is recovering fast, and begins to attempt, in his impatience, to be on his legs again, to hobble about his room.
Gen. Taylor keeps his own counsel respecting the nature of the instructions received from Washington. The Washington letter writers probably know more about it than a majority of the officers under Gen. Taylor at this moment. Something is brewing, however, and I can see that some movement is soon to be made, though none has yet been ordered.
The Bishop's Palace and heights back of the town are not garrisoned; the troops having been withdrawn into town, and there is no piquet stationed on the Saltillo road in that vicinity.
I send you by this mail a list of the killed and wounded, with all the remarks, which I have complied from the official returns. This list has cost me considerable time and labor. Several of the corps only returned the number of killed and wounded, and it was only after I commenced seeking for the names, etc., that they were sent in: and even now all the names have been gathered the Kentucky Regiment not having sent in any, and some other corps having failed to report the names of those killed and wounded after the 21st. My list, however, is complete, with the exception of two killed and eleven wounded. My object in collecting these names will be appreciated by the friends of the brave men who have fallen, as well as by those who will be relieved from anxiety by reading over the list.
H.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p4c1 Letter from Monterey
MONTEREY MEXICO, Oct. 16, 1846
Gentlemen A chance offers to send a line which I must write in haste as the gentlemen who takes it will be off in a few moments. Gen. Wool crossed the Rio Grande 13 days ago, on his way to Monclova. A train of 1500 mules arrived from Camargo a day or two since, with provisions. Two thousand mules have been hired at this place for the use of the army at 37 1/2 cents per day each.
Lieut. Graham's remains were followed to the grave, three days since, by Gen. Taylor and nearly all the officers.
No news yet from the first mail that was captured by the enemy. Another large mail started from Camargo a few days ago, (the 5th instant, ) which shared the fate of the first. This makes two important mails that have been captured from us within a month. The last was taken out of the mule train.
Santa Anna is at San Luis Potosi, but is doing nothing. He sustains Ampudia in his late conduct. The fever and ague is spreading through the army at a fearful rate.
H.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p4c1 INTELLIGENCE FROM THE ARMY
[from the American Flag]
We make the following copious extracts from the American Flag published at Matamoras:
Although several persons have called at our office within the last two days direct from Monterey and intermediate posts, yet not one word of news do they bring not before published, except that preparations for future hostile operations on our side are rapidly progressing. By the time the armistice shall have expired, everything will have been completed to insure success in future engagements or movements. Of the doings of [...][lines unreadable] with Gen. Taylor, Gov. Morales proposes that their future correspondence shall be carried on in French, and he flatters old "Rough and Ready" thus:
"With satisfaction it is known to the Government of this State, that your Excellency is perfectly versant with the French idiom. This government has a proficient interpreter in this language, and wishes (to be better understood) that all future communications from your Excellency be made in this idiom.
"With profound respect, God and Liberty!
"Francisco De P. Morales.
"To Z. Taylor,
"CommanderinChief Army of Occupation, Monterey Sept. 29, 1846."
On the 1st of October, Gen. Taylor addressed the following reply to these two last notes of Gov. Morales:
"The communication of your Excellency, dated 29th ult relative to excesses committed by volunteers in the city of Monterey; was duly delivered. Some delay has occured in answering it, in order that I might communicate with the commandant of that post.
"It is with sentiments of regret I learn your just cause of complaint, founded upon the grounds stated by your Excellency. Your Excellency must be aware that it is no easy task to keep such men in subjection, and although my great desire is to maintain good order, yet excesses have been committed, but I believe, none of grave character.
"The volunteers now in the city will be removed in a few days, and by their absence I hope all cause of further complaints will cease. In the meantime, Brig. General Worth will use all efficaciotts [sic] measures to maintain order in the city. He is now invested with orders to this effect. Your Excellency must be aware that my desire is to comply with the guarantees I have given in the name of my Government, relative to the security of persons and property.
"I take the liberty, at the same time, to add, that your Excellency has
been misinformed in regard to my possessing a knowledge of the French idiom,
and in consequence, you will please hereafter, as heretofore, receive my communications
in English."
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p4c2 NAVAL ATTACK ON ALVARADO!
We have a letter from our correspondent "Indicator" who is vet in Pensacola,
advising us that the U.S. schr. ship Relief, Bullus, Lieut. Commanding,
arrived there on the 30th ult. 20 days from Vera Cruz. His letter is dated
31st ultimo He writes "The only intelligence by her of interest regards the
projected attack on Alvarado, which Commodore Conner intends to lead in person.
Capt. Fitzhugh came a passenger in the Relief, having been detached
from the steamer Mississippi, and his place supplied temporarily by
Commander Adams, heretofore second in command. Commodore Perry has hoisted
his red broad pennant on board the Mississippi, and of course, is
to be regarded as a Commodore, not as a Captain. The attack on
Alvarado was to take place on the 11th or 12th at furthest. The steamer
Mississippi arrived as the Relief was coming out. There is
nothing sure worth communicating. The Princeton sailed this morning
for Vera Cruz. The John Adams was to leave today." [N.
O. Tropic.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p4c2 THE DEATH OF A NAVAL OFFICER, AND AN AMIABLE MAN
[from the Union]
We have to announce, with profound regret, the sudden death of Commodore
John Nicholson, of the United States Navy, who died last night at Mrs. Ulrich's
in this city, under an attack of apoplexy. We have known Com.
Nicholson for more than forty years. He was a printer by profession,
in Richmond, in 1804 our near and respected neighbor but his genius led
him into a different destination, and his merits, gallantry and skill raised
him to a high rank in the service, and made him many friends and numerous
admirers. In several actions, he was distinguished for his extraordinary
coolness and bravery. We deeply lament the loss of such a man
to his country, his family and his friends. [Union.
[AMB]
Friday, November 13, 1846 REv43i57p4c4 GEN. LAMAR
Gen. Mirabeau B. Lamar has been commissioned by Gov. Henderson to act
as a civil and military Governor of the Texas frontier. He is
to make his headquarters at Laredo, a Mexican town on the Texas side of the
Rio Grande. To enable him to extend his jurisdiction, he is authorized
to raise and have under his command a company of 100 men. The
required force was raised from among the disbanded Texans, and Gen. Lamar
is now on his way to Loredo, to fulfill the duties of his new appointment.
[AMB]
Tuesday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p1c4 VERY LATE FROM MEXICO
[From the New Orleans Picayune November
Through the same channel by which we received the intelligence given in another column from the Gulf squadron, we also received papers from Vera Cruz as late as the 29th of October. The intelligence is interesting and important.
In the first place we may say, in general terms that in no paper which we have opened do we find any token of submission on the part of the Mexicans in their conflict with this country. Every paragraph breathes threats of vengeance. Their losses are enumerated in detail, to found thereupon more urgent appeals to the patriotism of their citizens to give up everything from the support of the war. It is not too much to say that there is the warmest enthusiam [sic] apparent in all that we read, whether in editorial remarks or the military addresses with which the papers are crowded. The spirit of all is "War to the knife." But this shows the surface of affairs only. We shall have occasion to note incidents, which lead us to suspect the country is by no means so united as the crisis in her affairs would seem to demand.
We enter into the details of the news without much attempt at arrangement or time for revision; but this will be excused. And first of Santa Anna.
The news of his arrival at San Luis Potosi which we gave the other ay, was at least premature. He did not reach there till the 8th of October. As every thing in regard to his movements is sought after, we annex his letter announcing his arrival:
LIBERATING ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC.}
Headquarters, San Luis, Oct. 10, 1846. }
Most Excellent Sir: On the evening of the 8th inst. I arrived at this capital, accompanied by my staff, and established therein the headquarters of the Army of Operations, destined to repel the unjust invasion made upon the Republic by the Army of the United States of the North.
I have the pleasure of saying to your Excellency, that my entrance into this State was made amidst the congratulations of a magnanimous people, who have not ceased to bestow upon me profuse marks of consideration, and the same remark will apply to the authorities and public functionaries of all classes.
Oblig me by communicating these facts to his Excellency, the General charged with supreme executive power, and accept assurances of my consideration and esteem. God and Liberty!
Antonio Lopez De Santa Anna.
To the Secretary of War.
One of the first acts of the wily general Issimo [sic], was to supply himself with funds. This he did very effectually, by seizing upon a conducts of specie, thereby getting hold of two millions of dollars. His pretext was, that it was unsafe to forward this large amount of money to the seacoast in the present state of affairs. He gave receipts for the money, and his individual bonds for its restoration. It must be confessed that this mode of supplying his coffers is infinitely more expeditious than advertising for a loan, and more acceptable to the people at large than a forced loan from the clergy. The accounts we give of this great financial stroke, we do not derive from Mexican papers, but we have entire faith in the facts. We trust they will be satisfactory to English merchants and be accepted as an earnest of the security of the money they loaned Mexico on the mortgage of the Californias [sic]. We find Santa Anna's letter, of the 10th ult, in the latest paper before us. We regret to say, that the papers give us no clue to his plan of operations.
But while Santa Anna was on his way to San Luis, he wrote back from Queretaro, on the 3rd of October, as follows: "The disaster which we encountered at Monterey is not so great as I at first thought. Our troops have left for Saltillo and have already occupied the principal points of the Sierra. So far from the troops having become demoralized, I am assured that great enthusiasm prevails among them. Their success has cost the enemy, according to incontestible evidence, more than fifteen hundred men. Our artillery was well managed, and it is said that the enemy believe it was served by French officers I am now about to unfold all my character, with the energy which is habitual to me, and the Americans will very soon succumb, or I shall cease to exist." Upon copying this effusion of Santa Anna, the Diario breaks forth: "May Heaven crown with the most brilliant results the patriotism of this illustrious child of his country, whom we ardently desire to see return to the capital covered with glory."
We now for the first time learn what fruits the Mexicans derived from
the seizure of our mails near Martin, intended for Gen. Taylor at Monterey.
Among the multitude of papers forwarded by Ampudia to Santa Anna and the
Government, we find a letter from our Secretary of War, Mr. Marcy, to Gen
Taylor, revealing the design upon Tampico and San Luis Potosi. The letter is dated Washington, Sept. 21st, and through our account of the
contents of the letter will be an old story at Washington, we may say here,
that the design of the Secretary's letter is to obtain Gen. Taylor's opinion,
rather than to dictate a line of proceedings for him. He is told
what the Government has thought of doing, and asked what he thinks about it.
[AMB]
Friday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p2c5 GENERAL VEGA
Col. T. F. Hunt, U.S. A., on Saturday, notified officially to Gen. Vega,
and other Mexican officers, prisoners in this city, that they have been exchanged
for Captain Carpender, and the crew of the brig Truxton. They were
informed that they could proceed to Pensacola, as soon as possible, whence
they would be taken on board one of the U. S. menofwar, to Vera Cruz. It was, however, left to the discretion of Gen. Vega, and the other gentlemen,
to return to their country by the way of Havana. The communication
containing this information was dated Washington, the 28th ult, and signed
by Gen. Winfield Scott. [N. O. Commerical Times.
[AMB]
Friday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p2c5 OPERATIONS OF CAPT. FREMONT IN UPPER CALIFORNIA
Letter from Senator Benton to the President
Sir: In the absence of official information on the subject of Lieutenant Colonel (then Captain) Fremont's operations in Upper California, I deem it my duty to lay before you the private letters which I have received from that officer, showing you his actual position at the latest dates; the unwilling manner in which he became involved in hostilities with the Mexican authorities of that province before he had heard of the war with Mexico; and especially to disprove the accusation officially made against him by Governor Castro of having come into California with a body of United States troops, under the pretext of a scientific expedition, but in reality to excite the Americans settled in that province to an insurrection against the Mexican government. This accusation is of the gravest character, most seriously implicating, the good faith and honor of our government and officially made by Governor Castro, in a despatch [sic] to the minister of war and marine, under date of the first of April last, and published in El Monitor Republicano, in the city of Mexico, by the order of the Mexican government, on the 10th of May last. A copy of this paper was sent to Mrs. Fremont, my daughter, by the Hon. Mr. Slidell, and an English translation of it is herewith presented.
When Capt. Fremont left the U. States to complete his scientific labors beyond the Rocky mountains, it was with a full knowledge of the political as well as personal difficulties of the enterprise. He knew that the relations of the United States were critical both with Mexico and Great Britain that he was going through the territories of the one, and among the settlements of the other that jealousy would attach to his movements, and all his acts be referred to his government; and he was perfectly determined to use the utmost circumspection in all his conduct, confining himself wholly to his scientific pursuits, and carefully avoiding as well the appearance as the reality of either a political or military mission. With this view, and after having traversed the desert, and crossed the Great Basin which lies between the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada of the Atta California, he left men upon the frontier, an hundred miles from Monterey, and went alone to that city to explain his objects and wishes in person to Gov. Castro. He did this in the most formal and official manner, in company with the U. States consul, Mr. O'Larkin, (at whose house he stopped,) and conforming to the whole detail of Spanish ceremonial, he not only called on the governor but also on the perfect and alcalde. The interview was entirely satisfactory. To the governor's remark that he was bringing a considerable body of United States troops with him, Capt. F. answered that it was not so that he had no troops at all only a few hired men for security against Indians, and killing game that he was not even an officer of the line, but of Topographical engineers; and that he was seeking a new route (among the objects of science) to the mouth of the Columbia, upon a line further South than the present traveling route, and which had brought him through the unsettled parts of the Upper California; and that he now wished to winter in the valley of the San Joaquin, where there was game for his men, and grass for his horses. To this the governor agreed, and Capt. Fremont left Monterey to bring is men to the beautiful valley which he had explored in his previous expedition, and to which both himself and his men looked forward as to a paradise of repose and refreshment, after their tollsome and perilous march of three thousand miles among savage tribes and through wilderness and desert countries.
Scarcely had he arrived in this valley; when information began to reach him from all quarters, that the Governor was raising the province against him, and coming upon him with troops of all arms, cavalry, artillery and infantry; and that his situation was most critical and dangerous. The consul sent a special messenger to warn him of his danger; the American settlers below offered to join him; but he utterly refused their assistance, because he would not compromise them. But he did what honor and selfpreservation required, and what the courage and fidelity of his men enthusiastically seconded; he took a position, and waited the approach of the assailants; and that position was nearer to them, on the summit of the Sierra, overlooking Monterey, at thirty miles distance and whence, with their glasses, they could plainly see the troops, with their artillery, which had crossed the bay (of Monterey) to San Juan, on their way to attack him. The Governor, with these troops, and with all his threats, after coming towards the camp on the Sierra, did not come to it; and Captain Fremont, faithful to his design to avoid collision, if possible, finding himself not attacked, determined to retire, and proceed to Oregon on his intended route of the valley of the Sacramento, the Tlamat lake, and the valley of the Wahlamath river. Accordingly, about the 10th of March, he left his position on the Sierra, descended into the valley of San Joaquin, and commenced his march by slow and easy stages, of four and six miles a day, towards Oregon.
It is of his encampment on the Sierra, that Governor Castro makes particular complaint in his despatch [sic] to Minister of War and Marine, as an evidence of hostile intentions, and where the American flag was raised, a fortification built, and the American settlers called in for its defence [sic] . Unhappily we have no letter from Captain Fremont, detailing the events of these days; but the want of such a letter is well supplied by the official communications from the American Consul at Monterey to our Secretary of State, and by Captain Fremont's brief note to the consul, (written in pencil) while expecting the attack of Governor Castro, and which has been heretofore published in our papers. Mr. Buchanan furnished us, as soon as they were received, with copies of these dispatches, which are herewith laid before you, and from which it will be seen that Governor Castro's accusations against Captain Fremont are entirely unfounded; that so far from having excited the Americans to revolt, he absolutely refused to receive those who offered to join him; and more, that when after leaving this position, and granting discharges to five or six men, he refused to fill their places from the men in the country, so determined was he to avoid as well in appearance, as in fact, the smallest act offensive or injurious to the Mexican authorities. The same correspondence shows the entire falsehood of all the superlative gasconade which Governor Castero put into his official report about the spoils of the camp the disperson [sic] of Fremont and his men their fight into the bulrushes, and through the desert his suffocation in the cradle of a dangerous conspiracy, & c., with all which imaginary exploits his official despatch [sic] was filled, while Fremont, with sixtytwo men and two hundred horses, were slowly retiring in a body, almost in his view, and utterly abstaining from any act of offence to the province or its authorities. It was no doubt this false report to his Government, that led to his subsequent operations in May, to exterminate Fremont's party and all the American settlers on the Sacramento.
On return from the evacuated camp on the Sierra, the governor also put
forth a proclamation, in the vein of his report, and even worse, styling
Fremont and his men a band of highway robbers, plundering the consul took
the trouble to investigate, and found to be a very trivial offence of manners
(not of law or morals) which the injured party valued at five dollars, and
for which Captain Fremont gave ten. For the rest, the consul,
after all this, declares the inhabitants of the country to be well pleased
with Captain Fremont, and that he might walk the streets of Monterey the
next day alone, if he chose. The only truth in Governor Castro's
despatch [sic] is, that Captain Fremont took a military position, entrenched
it, and raised the American flag: but these events were the consequence,
and not the cause of Gov. Castro's movement against him; and this is fully
shown in that brief, but heroic note, written in pencil, in answer to the
consul's warning, in which Capt. Fremont after refusing the aid of the American
settlers, declared for himself and his sixtytwo men, that they had done
nothing wrong to the authorities or to the people of the country that if
attacked they would defend themselves, and die to the last man under the
flag of their country, and leave it to their country to avenge their deaths.
All they did was in selfdefence [sic]. The flag was raised, not as a standard
of insurrection, or as a sign of contempt to the Mexican government, but
as the symbol of honor and patriotism., which was entitled to respect from
others to defence [sic] from themand which they had displayed in that hour
of danger, as a warning to the approaching assailants as a bond of union
and devotion among themselves and as an appeal and invocation (if they should
be destroyed) to the avenging spirit of their far distant country. To my
mind, this entrenching on the mountain and raising the national flag, was
entirely justifiable under the circumstance of the case; and the noble resolution
which they took (refusing the aid of their countrymen) to die, if attacked,
under the flag of their country, four thousand miles distant from their homes,
was an act of the highest heroism, worthy to be recorded by xenophon [sic],
and reflecting equal honor upon the brave young officer who commanded and
the heroic SIXTYTWO by whom he was supported.
[AMB]
Friday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p4c1 THE SUFFERINGS OF THE SOLDIERS
A volunteer in the Kentucky regiment (Robert Hardin) writing to his father afte the battle of Monterey, gives an account of three days' fighting. He says:
On Monday night the Mexicans were in high spirits. They had lost but few men. All night they threw up sky rockets. At night the firing ceased. The left wing of the Kentucky regiment, to which I am attached, we marched into the fort taken by us, to hold it during the night. As we moved in, we were in point blank shot of one battery, and raked on our right by another. They both belched fire the whole time we were marching in, a distance of one mile. Such a night as I spent that night, I hope never to spend again. We had eaten nothing since daylight. We had no shelterno food no fire. We laid down in the mire and blood, among dead men and horses, and cold rain fell on us all night. I had no coat on, having gone into the fight in my shirt sleeves.
I never heard balls whistle before. Two cannon balls passed within two feet of me, and many more within a short distance. As we left the fort on Tuesday evening, which we had been holding as stated before through Monday night we were ordered to scatter, as the best means of protection against the two batteries which raked our line. I had got away from the company about 50 yards to myself, when a whole load of grape shot were discharged at me alone. I heard the shot and stooped in the bushes, when on both sides and above me the shot fell like hail. We lost three of our men with these fires this morning.
The dead were awful sights to look upon some shot with cannon balls,
and some with small shot some with their heads shot off some with their
legs off some with their bowels scattered on the ground. We
had no time until yesterday, to bury the dead. The heavens were full of
carrion birds, and the air with stench. I have not time to write at large
am in fine health, unhurt: without a scratch for which I am truly thankful.
[AMB]
Friday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p4c1 IMPORTANT FROM SANTA FE
[from the St. Louis Republican, Nov. 7]
By the arrival at Fort Leavenworth, on the 30th October, of Lieut. Col. Ruff of the Missouri Volunteers, we learn that Gen. Kearney left for California on the 25th of September, taking with him companies B, C, G, K and I, 1st U. States Dragoons in all about 400 men, mounted on mules. The route of this small command was considered by many of the oldest and most experienced mountaineers and traders, as one of great hardships and suffering, if not absolutely impracticable being down the Rio Grande to Socoro, (an old Spanish town, formerly of much importance from the large garrison stationed there.) about two hundred miles South of Santa Fe; thence West to the "Gila," (pronounced Hela;) thence down the Gila, to within one hundred and fifty to two hundred miles of the head of the Gulf of California, into which the Gila empties itself; thence Northwest to Monterey, on the Pacific. This route is called and known as the Copper Mine route.
The Colonel reports that everything was tranquil at Santa Fe when he left, (September 27th,) though a very current rumor existed that the Army family would endeavor to incite the population to open resistance as soon as Gen. Kearney and the regular troops of the United States had left that part of the country.
This report was not believed, however, or, if true, would have caused no uneasiness.
General Kearney, by printed proclamation, dated September 22, 1846, announces that, being duly authorized by the President of the United States, he appoints the following named persons the executive and administrative officers of the laws and government of the Territory of New Mexico:
GovernorCharles Bent
Secretary of the Territory Don Aduciano Vigil
Marshal Richard Daltam.
U. S. District Attorney Francis P. Blair.
Treasurer Chas. Blummer.
Auditor Public Accounts Eugene Leitensdorfer.
And Jacob Houghton, Antonio Jose Otero and Chas Baubie Judges of the Supreme court. These appointments were regarded as the best that could be made out of the material present in Santa Fe. The appointment of Gov. Bent appears to give general satisfaction.
The troops left in Santa Fe and vicinity are Major M. Lewis Clark's battalion of horse artillery and part of Col. Price's regiment, together with Capt. Augney's company, (from Cole) and Capt. Murphy's (of Platte) company of Infantry.
Col. Doniphan's regiment had obtained permission of Gen. Kearney to march to Chihuahua and effect there a junction with Gen. Wool, U. S. Army. Indeed such a movement was necessary, as owing to some mismanagement, provisions were very scarce, the Army being obliged to subsist from Bent's Fort (some time in July) up to the last of September, without sugar or coffee, and on half ration of flour (ground wheat.)
It was the universal belief at Santa Fe that General Wool would meet with
no resistance at Chihuahua. Constant communication was had between
the traders at Chihuahua and the traders at Santa Fe, and the trains of Connely
& Glasgrow, Owens & Anulu, Doane & Co., Huffmans & Mayoffins,
left for Cihuahua about the 20th of September expecting to find General Wool
in possession of the city. In this they will be very much mistaken, however,
as he had not then left San Antonio.
[AMB]
Friday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p4c2 SEIZING OF THE YUCATAN SCHOONERS
We were led into an error yesterday morning, by copying a paragraph from
the Evening Bulletin of Monday, stating that the schr. Ventura
had not been seized by the U. S. Marshal. Both the schrs. Ventura
and Joaquine, and their cargoes, have been seized by the Marshalthe
latter vessel yesterday morning, as will be seen by the monitions in our
advertising columns. Of the 7000 dollars of specie on board the
Ventura 1500 dollars have been taken possession of by the proper authority;
5500 having been sent from the vessel before her seizure. A portion of her
cargo, fruit, &c., perishable articles, will be sold today. [N. O.
Delta, Nov. 5.
[AMB]
Friday, November 17, 1846 REv43i58p4c5 LATE FROM THE SQUADRON
Second Abortive Attack on Alvarado!
EXPEDITION AGAINST TOBASCO.
[from the New Orleans Picayune, Nov. 7]
By the arrival of the pilot boat at the Balize we are in the possession of late advices from the squadron. We have only time to give the annexed letters and save the mail. If the Commodore has failed in his attack upon Alvarado, it is owing to no want of gallantry or skill on his part or that of his officers. The difficulties he has had to surmount have been insuperable so far; but he will yet prevail. He will in a few weeks renew his attempt at all hazards: [Correspondence of the Picayune]
OFF ANTON LIZARDO}
October 13, 1846 }
Gentlemen We are on the eve of another attack on Alvarado. At 5 o'clock this afternoon Com. Conner issued orders for the sailing of the squadron (frigates Cumberland and Raritan excepted) for the mouth of the Alvarado river. The Commodore takes command of the expedition in person, making use of the steamer Vixen as his flag ship for the occasion. One o'clock tomorrow morning is the hour fixed for getting under weigh, and already the streamers Mississippi, Vixen and McLane are firing up. Besides these vessels the force consists of the revenue cutter Forward, schrs. Reefer, Petrel and Bonito and prize schooner Nonata. This latter vessel was recently captured from the Mexicans, and was formerly the American schr. Belle out of your port. She now mounts 4 42 pound carronades. For the past month we have been drilling our men as infantry upon small island here; and Jack is so anxious for a fight that he marks time with a good grace, and every one appears pleased that at last we are to have a chance at the enemy.
At the mouth of the river the Mexicans have a ten gun battery, and we know of a brig of war and two gunboats being anchored inside. A number of their small merchantmen have taken refuge in the harbor, and there must be a smart sprinkling of prize money in store for us.
October 16 Our sailing orders for the morning of the 14th, were countermanded, in consequence of us blowing too fresh for operations occasioning a delay of the expedition for twentyfour hours. We sailed, however, at 1 o'clock, A. M. yesterday; but I regret to say, that we are all at anchor again today, and Alvarado is yet in possession of the Mexicans.
You were pleased to call the former attack on Alvarado an abortion, and I suppose you will not be sparing of hard names for the present failure; but I trust that when you examine the facts of the case, you will understand that it is owing to the inefficiency of the means at the disposal of Commodore Conner, and to the natural elements of the place itself, that we have not been successful , rather than to any want of skill or courage on his part, or lack of spirit and support by the officers and men under his command.
We were within ten miles of the mouth of the river at daylight, and stood slowly into shore, it being dead calm the Vixen and McLane towing the schooners. The Mississippi anchored at longshot distance, and commenced her fire. Up to this time everything appeared highly favorable for the success of the expedition. There being a heavy swell on the bar, the pilots declined taking the vessels over. The Commodore leading in the Vixen, with the rest of the force following, passed by the fort, each vessel firing her broadside as she ranged ahead, with but little effect, however, owing to the distance. A long eighteen in the Forward sent a shot directly into the fort; this movement was repeated with better success, the distance being lessened, and again the Forward made a most beautiful shot. In the meanwhile the Mississippi had closed up, and was exploding her Paixhans about the heads of the Mexicans in a way that must have made some of them see more stars than the Lord ever made. One shot fired from her dismounted a heavy gun of their's from a stockade. This they soon remedied; but, thus far, all their shot had fallen short. Daring the morning several of our boats sounded within half a mile of the fort, receiving the fire of the enemy with as much impunity as indifference.
The swell on the bar having somewhat subsided at 1 P.M., the line was formed as follows: steamer Vixen, flag ship, towing gunboats Reefer and Bonita, steamer McLean, towing the Nonata cutter Forward and gunboat Petrel; then two launches, three cutters and a barge, containing a force destined for boarding the vessels of war, brought up the rear. The Vixen, with her tow, passed the bar and took position within point blank range, but the McLane struck fast, and the Commodore, finding himself deprived of the support of twothirds of his force, and being unable to sustain the fire of a twelvegun battery with but four light pieces of his own, was obliged to retreat. The force in the boats was now exposed to a heavy fire, the shot flying thick and fast around us, and had the Mexicans fired grape, it would have knocked some of us into fits. We escaped, however with a good ducking from the spray of the balls.
It being now too late in the day for any further operations, signal was made for return to anchorage and thus ended this bloodless combat bloodless not because each and every man of us would not have shed our heart's best to have gained the day not because our plan of attack was not good, or that we were not property led, but because Providence has provided the enemy with such natural defences [sic] as cannot be overcome by a naval attack with such means as Com. Conner has at his disposal. The Mclane is an abominable abortion. (to make use of your own word.) drawing too much water to be serviceable, and with not sufficient power to drive her over three and a half knots an hour but it is due to Capt. Howard to say, that as soon as he got his vessel afloat again, he proffered to make another attempt to pass the bar, but the Commodore declined, as it was now to late in the afternoon.
There remains one way to take this Alvarado, and, mark my words, it will be done before many weeks; meanwhile we must expect to be severely handled by the newspapers at home, and by people who expect us to accomplish impossibilities and gain glory on a field where none is to be won although no man, with two ideas in his head, who witnessed our recent defeat, can attribute blame to any one.
October 25., On the night of the 16th instant, the three steamers, cutter Forward, schooners Bonito, Reefer and Nonata, under command of Commodore Perry, left Anton Lizardo for an attack on Tabasco. On the morning of the 17th, the Mississippi made a prize of the American barque Coosa, Captain Hickling, off Alvarado river, and sent her into this place upon suspicion of her being about to land her cargo on the Mexican coast. This vessel was cleared from New Orleans on the 3rd instant for Havana, by Messrs. Wylie & Egana, with 1,600 bales of cotton, put up in 200 pound bales, and there appears good reason to suppose that it was intended for Mexico. She will sail for your port on the 27th, in charge of Passed Midshipman Barrett, son of one of your former collectors.
Today another prize, the Yucatan schooner "El Telegrafo" arrived from the Tabasco expedition on the 23rd, and reports the fleet standing off the land waiting for weather to go into the river.
The following vessels are here discharging coal for the steamers; barques Ever and Morgan Dix; brigs Abrasia and Juan Cartagena schooners Regina Hill and Sarah. The latter vessel having lost her rudder on her passage from New Orleans to Brazos Santiago was blown down here, and her coal has been made use of by Commodore Conner. Also, schooners Portia from New Orleans, and Titus from New Haven, with supplies for the squadron.
Yours,
B.A.
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p1c6 THE MEXICAN WAR
The news from Washington, with the official requisition of the Secretary of War upon Governor Smith for one Regiment of Infantry, which we published yesterday, produced no little sensation in our City. Whatever the Whigs may think proper to say of the "injustice" of this "damnable and atrocious war" for party effect, the fact cannot be denied, that the vigorous movements set on foot by the Government will meet with a cordial response in the popular mind. Mr. Webster may disgrace himself and his country by appealing to what he falsely conceives to be the gravelling selfishness of the "Yankee" character in calculating the "cost of the war." The Whig press may re echo his sentiments, at a moment when we are actually engaged in war, with an insolent and phrenzied foe. All these untimely appeals to party will utterly fail to keep down the rising patriotism of the nation. At the risk of destroying public confidence, the Whig press predicted that the Government could not raise money to carry on the war. This mischievous attempt to clog the wheels of Government, has been put down by the successful loan of five millions just effected by the Secretary of the Treasury.
Let the Whigs rave as they may, the nation is convinced of the justice and righteousness of the war with Mexico, and will cordially aid the administration in bringing it to a glorious end.
In another column will be found an appropriate Proclamation, which Governor Smith promptly issued, calling upon the volunteer companies, who may desire to enlist under the new terms of service, (during the war,) to come forward at once. We doubt not, that they will respond with a promptness and patriotism worthy of the good old state.
We learn that several applications have already been made for appointments in the new Regiment, and that Governor Smith has accepted the services of the Richmond Greys, Capt. Robert G. Scott, Jr. and of the Rangers, the new volunteer company formed in this city last Spring, on the first breaking out of hostilities, under Capt. E. C. Carrington. Robert Porterfield is 1st Lieutenant, and Carlton Munford 2d Lieutenant of this new corps. We are requested to call upon the members immediately at the office of Messrs. Carrington & Hughes.
The Whig press predicted that the Government could not raise money to carry on the war. This mischievous attempt to clog the wheels of Government, has been put down by the successful loan of five millions just effected by the Secretary of the Treasury.
Let the Whigs rave as they may, the nation is convinced of the justice and righteousness of the war with Mexico, and will cordially aid the administration in bringing it to a glorious end.
[missing lines]
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p1c7 NEW MEXICO AND NEW LEON
[from the Union]
The present war brings us better acquainted with the country which we have conquered. It shows us the habits of the people, the producing capacities of their soil, its rivers, its mountains and the routes by which commerce is hereafter to shed its blessings upon the land. How many were acquainted with the beauties of Monterey for example: of which one of the first officers of the army gives us the following picturesque description under date of October 10th.
"The brave division of General Worth has fought six distinct and separate battles and so often conquered superior numbers and [...] [unreadable word] the vallies [sic] and the mountains, the streets and the housetops with the enemy's dead. We have gained a series of glorious triumphs, and we hope the government and people will be satisfied. This valley and surrounding scenery would seem to have set to Johnson's Rasselas. Nothing can exceed its fertility, beauty or grandeur. As its climate, it seams to be a resolution of all the fine elements. In the same enclosure you [...] [unreadable word] the tropical and the northern fruits the [..][unreadable word] and promegranate blended with the apple, pear, and cherry of the north all growing in rich and harmonious luxuriance. The mountains seem to stretch to Heaven and kiss the land of God in thankfulness for his blessings. " Indeed, all for the face of man is divine."
If we turn from New Leon to New Mexico we are struck with its new features and resources. The letter of Lieut. Abert, with which we have been favored, opens upon the mines of precious metals which that province produces.
EXTRACT of a letter from Lieut. Abert, corps of Topographical engineers, dated Santa Fe Oct. 7, 1846
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p2c6 Call for Troops
[from the Union]
THE CALL FOR TROOPS
The following (says the Union) are the places of rendezvous for the nine regiments called for in yesterday's orders by the Secretary of War:
One regiment from Louisiana, New Orleans
" Mississippi, Vicksburg
" South Carolina, Charleston
" North Carolina, Wilmington
" Virginia, Guyandotte
" Pennsylvana, Pittsburgh
" New York, City of N. Y.
" Massachusetts, Boston
" Texas. The Governor is authorized to designate the place of rendezvous, and to report the same to Gen. Taylor.
The troops are to serve during the war, and are estimated to amount to from 6,500 to 7,000 troops.
This movement appears to be little in conformity with the policy, latterly assigned by the Federal press and its scribes, of "masterly inactivity."
A scribe in this morning's "Baltimore American," says we either
do not know, or will not tell the plan of the war. He is welcome
to take whichever alternative pleases him best. And so of the destination
of these troops, or of any others which are now in the service.
[AMB]
November 20, 1846 REv43i59p2c5, Extracts From Mexican Papers
[Portions Unreadable]
The same vessel which brought the dispatches [sic] to the Navy Department, that we publish this evening, (says the Washington Union, November 17th,) brings with it also a file of the Vera Cruz Locomotor, from the 9th to the 19th of October inclusive. Most of the articles of importance or interest which they contain, are furnished in the extracts from the New Orleans papers, that we this evening lay before our readers. A decree, with a long pramble, was issued by the Government on the 21st of October, requiring from all holders of town property within the Republic, whether belonging to individuals, convents, societies or institutions, a contribution equivalent to a months rent, to be devoted exclusively to the support of the war, to be paid in four monthly installments. Tenants and subtenants are required to contribute a sum equal to the fourthpart of a month's rent.
The Monitor of the 8th of October says: "We know that the Secretary of the Treasury has proposed to the venerable Clergy of this diocese a mode by which they can contribute abundant means for the support of the war, without diminishing in any manner the value of ecelesiastical [sic] property, and without prejudice to the rights of individuals.
The Secretary attended today [sic], at the ecelesiastical [sic] session, a deliberation upon this important matter; but it appears that the venerable Clergy postponed their decision, and that they are not impressed with[...][missing] the Government for [gr....][missing] save the independence and [unreadable] co."
The Monitor of the [?th] known in a positive manner has received proposals for a [ . . . ]ty millions of dollars and substantally [sic] upon a [...] of the clergy, without [...] demands of [.....][....] The Republicans of the
"We know that Great Britain agreed seriously to [p...][up] the acceptance
of these [m...]ences which exist between purpose of putting an end to
have so unjustly [...][...]
If any confidence is to be articles in their newspapers voluntary contributions
to increasing, and [...][...] the people. [......] are [...]
contrary. The commerce? [ . . . ] Cruz to raise [c....] consequence
of the [d...] [...lon] of business, they [..] able to raise more than [..]
A number of ladies in [..] services to the Government the soldiers, &c.
Ampudia's offical papers[ . . . ] wounded at Monterey [to][..]
killed, 23 officers and [..] A letter from a [..] Saltillo, September 27th,
a[ . . . ]
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p2c6 ATTENTION GRAYS!
Attend a meeting of your company at Military Hall, this evening, at 7 o'clock.
ROG. SCOTT, Jr., Captain
Volunteers desirous of enlisting in the company of Richmond Grays, whose services have been accepted by the Governor of Virginia, under the late requisition made by the President of the United States, for a regiment of infantry from the State, will report themselves to Robert O. Scott, Jr. Captain of the company, immediately. The company will be pleased to see at [...][unreadable word] meeting, to night, those persons who feel an interest in their success.
The places of rendezvous will be Swan Tavern, [...] [unreadable word]
Hill, and [ . . . ] Military Nov. 20
[AMB]
November 20, 1846 REv43i59p2c6 ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS!
Captain Carrington's company of volunteers are hereby notified to rendezvous
forthwith in the city of Richmond. The company is now organizing anew, in
accordance with the recent instructions of the Secretary of War, and will
march as soon as its organization shall be completed. The term
of enlistment will be during the continuance of the war with Mexico.
The new requisition raises the number of privates in the company to EIGHTY
instead of SIXTYFOUR, as before required. Several
vacancies have been occasioned by the removal from the city of some of the
original volunteers, and by other causes so that the whole number of vacancies
to be supplied is not less than thirty. Volunteers in the country,
whether members of the original company or not, are recommended to repair
to the city as soon as practicable. Applications for enlistment
should be made to the Captain at his office, corner of 11th and Bank Streets.
By order of the Captain.—Nov. 20
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p2c7 MARINE JOURNAL
PORT OF RICHMOND
High Water the day, at 5'o'clock, P. M.
ARRIVEDSchr. Gen. Irvin, Wilson, Havre de Grace
BALTIMORE, Novenber 18 Cleared Home, Edmondson, for Norfolk, Petersburg and Richmond.
CHARLESTON, Nov. 16. Arrived schr. O.O.F., Dow, from Richmond
NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 12 Arrived, bargue, Phoenix Boush, 13 days ffrom Norfolk, VA.
Arrived at Gravesend, Nov. 1, ship Rob Roy, Drummond, from Richmond.
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p4c1 MISCELANEOUS
(From the N. O. Picayne, Nov. 10)
FURTHER MEXICAN INTELLIGENCE
We recur today to our files of Mexican papers, which are full of interest. Somewhat at random, we plunge at once into their contents.
We have a report from Gen. Ampudia, written from Saltillo on the 4th, of October, giving the killed, wounded and missing in "the division under his command" at Monterey, from the 19th to the 23rd of September, in their different encounters with the Americans. The list embraces 5 officers and 117 privates killed; 23 officers and 221 men wounded; 1 officer and 8 men injured or "confused" and 63 wounded. This gives a total of 438. We know this to be far below the true number of casualties, unless Ampudia intends to confine this, as his words my impart, to his own immediate command, independent of that under other general officers, and the irregular troops.
To keep alive the enthusiasm which has been aroused throughout Mexico, and thereby forward the organization of the National Guard, General Salas, the nominal head of the Government, has allowed himself to be named Colonel of a new battalion raised in the City of Mexico. Don V. Garcia Torres, the editor and printer who was persecuted by Paredes but who is again at large, has made an attempt to form another battalion, and with every prospect of success.
We find denuaciations [sic] in the papers against a class of Mexicans who are said to be withdrawing privately from the country, taking with them the wealth which they have amassed, as is alleged by speculating in the funds, and like practices "they leave the country to escape being called upon to make contributions." The press shows no mercy to such men.
The press is very bold, too, in its denunciations of the clergy, who are accused of opposing the measures of the Government. An attempt is made to throw odium upon the church, and as we judge, with the view of justifying measures watch the Government may feel compelled to take to make the church contribute from its hoards to the necessities of the government. It is well known that when Gomez Farias was in power many years since, he had courage to propo[…]e laying hands upon the property of the church, and Farias is assuredly one of the master spirits in the present Government of Mexico.
Gen. Cortina, before resigning his post as Governor of the district, signed an order for the disarming a battalion of the Naional Guard. It led to an immediate commotion. The discontented flew at once to Gomez Farias for relief, and through his influence the order was rescinded. Cortina in the business is accused of acting under the influence of the Modcrads or Conservatives; and although this party is in the minority, and Cortina has been compelled to resign, we inter from the continual denunciations of which it is the object, that is is formidable, and my embarrass the Government whenever a favorable opportunity occurs.
The convicts in the prisons of Puebla have petitioned the Government to march them under a guard to the point which is thought most exposed, and then to place arms in their hands, and allow them to avenge the outrages committed upon their country. We pity the owners of hen roosts in the district which this troop my occupy.
The troops stationed in the city of Morelia, received orders on the 3rd of October to march forthwith under General Cela, and join the army of Monterey. The call for these troops reached that city at the same time as the news of the disaster at Monterey and produced an immense excitement. So far from being depressed, the people came forward with contributions to support the war, and provide resources for the garrison to set out upon its march.
Gen. Rincon, a distinquished [sic] officer in the Mexican service, died on the 16th, ult. at Jalapa.
In a paper of the 7th October, published at Puebla the following pointed allusion is made to the defenseless state of Matamoras:
"What are three hundred AngloAmericans, who form the garrison of Matamoras, to subdue the ten thousand inhabitants of that town? What! are several or eight thousand adventurers under Gen. Taylor to conquer the State of New Leo? What! are the one hundred or two hundred thousand adventurers, who my be sent out by the presumptuous Government of Washington, to enslave eight millions of Mexicans?"
The writer then goes on to answer the question he thus asks, and in a very patriotic strain. We meet continually in our papers with sneers at the inadequacy of the forces which we are employing against Mexico, but more especially do we find them touching upon the small number of troops left for the defence [sic] of Matamoras. It was at one time boldly proclaimed in this country, prior to the fall of Monterey, that they true point of attack for Santa Anna was to fall suddenly upon Gen. Taylor's line of communications near the mouth of the Rio Grande. This was before our Government was known to have conceived a design upon Tampico, and of course before the Mexicans had their attention directed to the defence [sic] of that [...] [words unreadable] publication of Mr. Marcy's letter to Gen. Taylor of the 21st September. It certainly is not less worthy of consideration now, to look well to the strength of our position on the lower Rio Grande, when it would best suit the purposes of Santa Anna to take the initiative and divert us from the dreaded attack by threatening our communications. Mexican trops move with unexampled speed, though it is only necessary to know that they are coming to ensure them a fitting welcome.
In our paper of Sunday, we endeavored to give an idea of the tone of public feeling in Mexico, and the efforts made by the Government to stimulate popular animosity against this country. In pursuance of the same purpose, we translate an article from the official journal of Mexico, which throws much light upon the state of the public mind in Mexico, and states some facts or alleged facts, in regard to our occupation of Monterey. We have no belief in the extent of the excesses said to have been committed by the volunteers, and those which have been committed are to be attributed to a small number of lawless fellows, camp followers and others, rather than soldiers; but we allow the Mexicans to tell the story in their own way. Incidentally, the reader may derive knowledge of many interesting facts from the translation of such documents.
(From the El Diario del Gobierno, of the 8th October)
Everything we asserted a few days since, when we inserted the address to the inhabitants of New Mexico made by the American commander who occupied that capital, in regard to the barbarous conduct observed towards Mexicans by the enemy, notwithstanding his flattering promise in regard to religion, life and property, is confirmed in the letter which we append hereto written by a person worthy of credit in Monterey to another in Saltillo. By this we can see what fate the invader is preparing for the inhabitants of the republic, and how civilized they show themselves who in the name of civilization seek to extend their domination over us.
The blood freezes in our veins as we think upon our brothers at Monterey under the American yoke, compelled to seek an asylum against the barbarity of these savages of the North to secure the honor of their daughters ad wives, and to save lives threatened every moment by the ferocity of the conqueror abandoning their homes and fortunes. Such is the mode in which the laws of humanity are respected by these men, who would present themselves as models to us; who would seduce us into treason by promises which can deceive no one, because their acts, more eloquent than words, reveal to us the insincerity of their professions. And if the vandalism of our enemy presses now upon our countrymen at Monterey, upon our enemy shall recoil in the eves of the whole eart the indelible stain of the infamy with which these atrocities cover their authors.
All true Mexicans will see the fate which awaits us if we fall into the hands of this ferocious foe; and if our duty to our country, our sense of honor and dignity as citizens, were not sufficient to compel us to chase back the enemy, at the cost of every possible sacrifice, still we must do it if we would not see ourselves treated as our brothers at Monterey have been since the victory.
It was indeed appalling to our enemy, when, full of fear at seeing the conquered city abandoned by its ancient inhabitants, they comprehended, contrary to their expectations, that Mexicans were not disheartened by their calamity, and that, far from inspiring dismay, the triumphs of the Americans did but animate public spirit, enkindle the liveliest enthusiasm, and make of every Mexican a hero to repel an enemy whose cowardice is capable of abusing his triumph against defenseless citizens.
The war is necessary; it is indispensable. It will be the
only means of restraining the enemy, and of avenging the outrages committed
upon our countrymen, and the blood shed in battle. Fortune will
not always prove adverse. When we deserve her favors by our sacrifices
and our virtues, she will station herself on our side, and our triumphant
arms will dictate law to the conqueror.
[AMB]
Monday, November 20, 1846 REv43i59p4c3 LATE FROM OUR SQUADRONS IN THE GULF AND ON THE PACIFIC
Extract of a letter from Commodore Conner to the secretary of the Navy:
"U.S. Ship CUMBERLAND "OFF VERA CRUZ, October 17, 1846
"It is with feelings of deep mortification that I apprize the Department of the failure of another attempt to enter the river of Alvarado.
On the morning of the 15th, a little after sunrise, I reached the entrance of that river, with the steamer Vixen, the three gunboats, the prize schooner Nonata, mounting four guns, and the revenue vessels, schooner Forward and steamer McLane, accompaied by the Mississippi, Commodore Perry. It was intended the latter should cannonade the battery, while the smaller vessels crossed the bar. It was found, however, she could not approach near enough to make any impression on the work with her shells. This battery mounted seven guns; and immediately behind it, on an elevated knoll, was a platform, on which was a mounted pivotgun. Knowing the small power of the steamers on which I depended to tow the small vessels over the bar, and up the river, I was desirous of having a favorable wind to assist them. For this purpose, I delayed moving until nearly two o'clock, but seeing no prospect of the usual sea breezes setting in, I determined to proceed. The first division, composed of the Reefer and Bonita, in tow of the Vixen, got under way, and was followed by the second division, consisting of the Nonata, Forward and Petrel, towed by the McLane. As they approached the bar, the current became stronger, causing the steamers to steer badly, and lessening their progress to not more than a mile, or a mile and a half, the hour.
"The first division continued to advance steadily, and had been some time engaged with the battery, when I had the mortification to see the McLane aground on the bar, and the vessels she had in tow, foul of each other, in the greatest disorder.
"As it was evident no support could be expected from the second division for some time, if at all, and as the three vessels composing the first were wholly inadequate to prosecute the attack, even it they could pass the battery with which we were engaged, I was constrained to order the Vixen to be put about, and repass [sic] the bar.
"It may be as well to observe here, that besides the battery at the entrance
of the river, there is another at the town, oneandahalf miles distant,
of three guns, with two brigs, each mounting nine guns, a schooner of seven
guns, and two gunboats, each carrying a long 24pounderall so disposed as
to command the channel. By the time the Vixen joined her,
the McLane was again afloat, without having sustained any material
injury. It was obvious, however, her draft (ten feet two inches)
was too great to pass the bar in its present state. Generally,
there are from thirteen to fifteen feet on it, and my information led me
to believe I should find that depth now, but the late floods have probably
lessened it, as on sounding, previously to entering, there were barely twelve
feet. The Vixen struck twice in going over, through drawing only
seven feet. The current was also stronger in the river than I
expected, even if she could pass the bar, I felt convinced the power of the
McLane was inadequate to make head against it with any vessel in tow:
These considerations and the day being far spent induced me, however, much
against my present to enter the river.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p1c7 LATER FROM MONTEREY
[from the New Orleans Tropic, Nov. 14
The steam schooner Virginia, from Brazos Santiago, arrived yesterday at this port. E. Solomon, Esq., a gentlemen connected with the Paymaster's department, returned in the Virginia, and to his politeness we are indebited [sic] for many items of interest from Monterey.
Mr. S. left Monterey on Monday, the 26th ult., and he fully confirms the melcancholy intelligence of the accident which befell the gallant Captain Randolph Ridgely, an account of which we gave in our last number. On the day of leaving, there were four physicians in attendance upon Captain Ridgely. He continued wholly insensible, and his medical attendants entertained little or no hopes of his recovery. General Taylor was greatly afflicted by this sad casualty, and expressed himself in relation to it in the most feeling manner. He declared in the presence of several, that Captain Ridgely was an invaluable officer, and that his place could not be filled.
The strength of the forces of the United States at Monterey does not exceed five thousand men, and the whole number of troops, from the mouth of the Rio Grande to Monterey, does not exceed thirteen thousand. It will require five thousand men to garrison the town already taken, and General Taylor thinks it would be injudicious to leave Monterey for San Luis Potosi with less than fifteen thousand men.
Lieut. Armstead, bearer of despatches [sic] from Washington to General Taylor had arrived. It was understood at Monterey that they directed Gen. Taylor to proceed to Tampico if he thought proper. The next movement of the army will be towards Linares, a town about one hundred and twenty miles from Monterey on the route to Tampico. Gen. Worth is of the opinion that there will be a severe fight there. Saltillo is entirely deserted by the enemy, their forces being concentrated at San Luis Potosi. General Taylor will leave a small force at Saltillo. An express from General Wool reached General Taylor on the 25th ult., informing him he had fifty days, subsistence, and was within six days' march of Moncovia. He was hastening his marches to unite with General Taylor at Monterey.
Major Lear, who was wounded similarly to the late Captain Page was stil ill. There were hopes of his recovery but his wound was of the most distressing character. Lieut, Col. McClung was rapidly recovering. Col. Marshall's regiment of Kentucky mounted me were encamped near Camargo, and the Tennessee mounted regiment was encamped near Matamoras.
The Mexican citizens of Monterey were returning to the city, resuming their usual avocations, and seemed to be satisfied with the new order of things.
A party of Mexicans and Americans under the command of the daring Capt. Jack Everett, formerly of Mobile, had gone in pursuit of the Comanche Indians who had been committing depredations upon the property of and murdered several Mexicans.
The U. S. steamer Spitfire left the brazos on Thursday last for Tampico. The object of the trip had not transpired.
The health of the troops was generally god, with the exception of some cases of agne [sic] and fever and diarrhea.
Among the property left by the enemy when he evacuated Monterey, was 30 to 40,000 choice cigars, about the same number of bales of tobacco and 20 to 30 bales of officer's uniforms, of the finest fabric, elegantly decorated, which must have cost large sums.
General Worth reports that 460 Mexicans were killed in his division of the army 130 of whom were buried at Mount Gillespie, the part of the city so called in honor of the brave and lamented officer, whose honored name it bears, and who was interred at that spot.
Great harmony and good feeling exists between General Taylor, Worth, Butler, and all the other officers, from which we conclude the letters received in the States stating that unpleasant words had passed between Generals Taylor and Butler were without foundation.
All the troops in Camargo are ordered to Mier, Seralvo and Pontaguida, the latter place is suppose to be the quarters of Canales. This will leave but one regiment from the mouth of the river to Matamoras, and two regiments at the latter place.
The city of Monterey is represented as a most delightful place of residence, and the country around it beautiful beyond description. Oranges, Lemons, Grapes, Pomegranates and indeed all the tropical fruits of the most delicious quality are most abundant.
Gov. Henderson had left the encampment with the official account of the siege and capture at Monterey. It was not known whether he would proceed himself to Washington.
A number of wounded officers and privates were passengers in the Virginia.
Matamoras, Nov 3, 1846
Capt. Harney's dragoons left here yesterday for Monterey. We have advices from Monterey as late as the 26th ult. The troops are suffering some from the chills and fever, and the diarrhea. The Mexicans here in Mataoras have a report that Tampico has been taken by our fleet, and they generally credit it. You may recollect that last June I wrote you that a report was in circulation amongst them here, that a fight had come off between some of our gunboats and theirs, which subsequently proved true, and I give you this rumor in the same way, thinking there may be some grounds to build it upon. The Tennessee Cavalry are expected here today from Lavacca. Health of the soldiers still improving.
P.S. Gen. Wool has arrived at Monclovia, from which place he will send a part of his forces to Chihuahua and join Taylor with the balance at Monterey. This I get from Major Shields, who arrived here last evening. He also says that Taylor will move upon Tampico for reinforcements.
CORPORAL
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p4c4 JUSTICE TO A BRAVE VIRGINIAN
We have hitherto failed to republish, which we now do most cordially, the following high compliment to Lieutenant Colonel Garland, contained in a letter in the New Orleans Commerical Times from Monterey. Colonel Garland is a son of Hudson M. Garland, Esq, the distinguished ExRepresentative of the Albemarle Congressional District. He has more than once nobly upheld the honor of his native State, and we hope to have the pleasure of recording the honors won by many more of the sons of Virginia, before the termination of the war:
"On the left, the fighting was of a different and more sanguinary character
than on the right. It was there the enemy had their heaviest force, and
every point could be reinforced promptly. Nearly every house was a fortress,
and shot were flying in every quarter from invisible enemies. It was in
the lower part of the town, and on the plain, fourfifths of our men were
killed and wounded. There Colonel Garland led the first division into the
fight, and commanded all of it that was in the town on the 21st of
September, and whilst officers and men were falling by scores around him,
displayed that species of cool and undaunted courage, so rare, that enables
the man to overcome his warmest feelings of friendship, and carries the officer
on to his duty, and to face the storm of battle, when his judgment tells
him he gains nothing by the contest, and when he is repulsed, to again return
with the same unflinching nerve to the charge."
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p4c5 MELANCHOLY CASUALTY – CAPT. RANDOLPH RIDGELY
This gallant officer, who has won so many laurels in the war, is supposed
to have lost his life at Monterey, about three weeks ago in a most melancoly
manner. Our information, as derived from John Deshon, Esq., one
of the owners of the steamship Sea, and who came passenger in the
ship Uncas which arrived here from Brazos yesterday, is to this effect.
Capt. Hill, U. S. Quartermaster at Brazos, informed Mr. Deshon that an express
had just arrived from Monterey, communicating the sad intelligence, that
Capt. Ringely, being on an unruly horse, and riding down a steep hill, was
thrown, the horse falling upon him, and shockingly mangled. At the time
the express left Monterey, Captain Ridgely was wholly insensible, the brains
oozing out of his ears, and no hopes were entertained of his recovery.
The Uncas spoke the steamship Virginian about twenty five miles from
the S. W. Pass, on her way from Brazos to this port. On board of the Virginia
was a bearer of despatches [sic] from Monterey for Washington, who will probably
arrive today. From him we may expect full particulars of this
terrible catastrophe. We must hope that Capt. Ridgely will yet
be spared to his country, which cannot afford to lose so brave and chivalrous
and meritorious an officer. [New Orleans Tropic, Nov. 13.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c1 FROM MONTEREY
OFFICIAL DESPATCHES FROM GEN. TAYLOR
HEADQUARTERS FIELD DIVISION VOLUNTEERS}
MONTEREY, September 30, 1846 }
Sir: Pursuant to the instructions of the Major General commanding, on the 21st inst., at about 8 o'clock, A.M., I marched my division (with the exception of one company from each infantry regiment, left to guard the camp) and placed it in order of battle, under cover, immediately in rear of the mortar and howitzer battery, my left resting on the main road to Monterey. I had been in position but a short time when I received the General's further orders to move as speedily as practicable with three regiments to the support of General Twiggs' division, then engaged in an attempt to carry the enemy's first battery on our left. To expedite this movement I marched the three nearest regiments, commanded respectively by Cols. Davis, Campbell and Mitchell by the left flank, leaving Col. Ormsby to sustain the batteries. Finding the rifle regiment in front, that of Col. Campbell was ordered to take its place. The two last mentioned regiments constituting Gen. Quitman's field brigade, he took the immediately command of them, and moved off with spirit and promptness in the direction indicated by the enemy's lime of fire. Having seen Gen. Quitman's brigade fairly in motion, I turned my attention to that of General Hamer, now consisting of the Ohio regiment only. Pursuing the instructions of the Major General, I felt my way gradually, without any knowledge of the localities into that part of the city bordering on the enemy's continuous line of batteries, assailed at every step by heavy fires in front and flank. After having traversed several squares. I met Major Mansfield, the engineer who had conducted the movement of Gen. Twiggs' division on the first battery. He informed me of the failure of that attack, and advised the withdrawal of my command, as there could no longer be any object in advancing further, warning me at the same time that if I advanced I must meet a fire that would sweep all before it. Knowing the Major General commanding to be but a short distance in the rear, I galloped back and communicated this information in consequence of which he gave the order to retrograde, and the movement was commenced accordingly. In a short time, however, it was known that Gen. Quitman's brigade had not only stormed the battery in question, but had also carried a stone house of considerable strength connected with the first and occupied by the enemy's infantry. The direction of Gen. Hamer's brigade was at once changed, and the city reentered by another route, which, after about a half hours's march under a destructive fire, brought it within, say one hundred yards of the enemy's second fort called EL Diablo. A very slight reconnoisrance [sic] [unreadable word] to convinence [sic] me that this was a position of no ordinary strength. Still, feeling its importance after consulting with part of my staff as to its practicability, I had resolved to attempt carrying it by storm and was in the act of directing the advance, when I received a wound which compelled me to halt. Col. Mitchell was at the same time wounded at the head of his regiment, as was his adjutant. The men were falling fast under the converging fires of at least three distinct batteries, that continually swept the intervening space through which it was necessary to pass. The loss of blood, too, from my wound , rendered it necessary that I should quit the field; and I had discovered at a second glance that the position was covered by a heavy fire of musketry, from other works directly in its rear, that I had not seen in the first hasty examination. Under all these discouragements, I was most reluctantly compelled, on surrendering the command, to advise the withdrawal of the troops to a less exposed position. There is a possibility that the work might have been carried, but not without excessive loss, and it carried , I feel assured it would have been untenable.
Accordingly, the division, under Gen. Hamer, on whom devoled [sic] the command , moved to a new position near the captured fort, within sustaining distance of our field batteries on the left. The troops remained in and near this position, and under fire at the enemy's batteries until late in the day. For details of the after proceedings of the day, I refer to Gen. Hamer's report.
It is with no little pride and gratification that I bear testimony of the gallantry and general good conduct of my command. Were proof wanting, a mournful one is to be found in the subjoined return of the casualties of the day. That part of my division properly in the field, did not exceed eleven hundred, of which number full onefifth was killed or wounded. The fact that troops for the first time under fire should have suffered such loss, without shrinking, in a continuous struggle of more than two hours, and mainly against a sheltered and inaccessible foe, finds but few parallels, and is of itself an eulogium to which I need not add. That there were some more prominent for skill and gallantry than others, even in a contest where all were brave, there can be no doubt; and I leave to those better qualified from their situations than myself, the pleasing, though delicate task of reporting upon their respective merits.
Of my brigadiers, however, it is proper that I should myself speak. General Hamer was placed in a situation where nothing brilliant could be achieved, but which at every moment imperatively demanded prudence and clam, unbending courage. It is but justice to him to say that I found him equal to the emergency.
General Quitman had before him a field in which military genius and skill were called into requisition, and honors could be fairly won, and I but echo te general voice in saying that he nobly availed himself of the occasion.
My special thanks are due to Major L. Thomas, assistant adjutant general; General A. Sidney Johnston of Texas, acting inspector general, and Lieut. G. W. Lay, aid decamp, who not only displayed great gallantry and coolness, but by their professional skill, activity and energy, rendered valuable service throughout the action. After my withdrawal, they remained with the troops in the field.
Surgeon R. P. Hunt, my volunteer aiddecamp, also evinced great coolness, and conveyed promptly the orders confided to him.
On the way back to camp i found the Kentucky regiment, under command of Col. Ormsby, drawn up in fine order to repel a threatened charge from a large bay of Mexican cavalry then in view. Though necessarily kept from the field of action proper, they occupied a most important position, and had two men wounded in defending it.
I make no mention of the movements of Capt. Webster's howitzer battery, which was withdrawn from my division and placed under charge of the chief of artillery.
Enclosed are the reports of Brig. Gens. Hamer and Quitman of the operations of their respective brigades; also, a statement in detail of the loss sustained by the division.
I am, sir, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
W. O. BUTLER,
Major Gen. Comd'g Field Div. Vol.
Maj. W. W. S. Bliss
Asst. Adj't General
HeadQuarters Army of Occupation,
Monterey, Mexico.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION VOLUNTEERS,
Camp near Monterey, Sept. 28th, 1846
Sir: I have transmitted to Maj. Gen. Butler a report of the operations of the first brigade of this division on the 21st inst; but it becomes my duty, as commandant of the division, to send you a account of the movements of both brigades during the remaining days of our attack upon Monterey.
For a full statement of the points occupied and the services rendered by the 2d brigade, I respectfully refer you to the report of Brig. Gen. Quitman, who accompanied the brigade, and whose communication to me is herewith sent. I was not with tem to witness their gallantry; but from the general's report, they are entitled to great credit for the courage, energy, and zeal displayed n the 23rd , in pushing their attack so far into the city, and sustaining themselves under the galling fires of the enemy, who had such decided advantages over them in their barricades and other fences.
On the morning of the 23d, the first brigade was ordered out in front of the city, and took a position near the infantry of Gen. Twiggs' command, where we remained until late in the afternoon. Whilst on the plain, we could distinctly hear the discharges of small arms, occasionally, between Gen. Quitman's and Gen. Henderson's command and the forces of the enemy in the city. When they were ordered to retire from the city and return to camp, the first brigade was directed to march to the town and occupy the fort taken on the 21st the one above it, "El Diablo", which had been abandoned by the enemy on the previous evening, and the tannery between them. We obeyed, the order, approaching them under a fire of balls and shells, which fortunately did us no injury.
Capt. Webster's battery formed part of my command, and after stationing the brigade, I directed him to throw a couple of shells from his 24lb. howlizers [sic] into the plaza, where it was understood the principal force of the enemy was collected. He did so; and, as far as we could discover, with great precision and considerable effect. Subsequent information confirmed our opinions in regard to the injury and alarm produced by these shells. During the night, Gen. Worth threw several in the same direction from the batteries on the Western side of the city, proving to the Mexicans that they were assailable in this form both flanks.
Through the whole night the enemy threw up rockets from the plaza and from the citadel; no doubt expecting a night attack, and adopting this method to discover the approach of our troops.
Early on the morning of the 24th, we had made every preparation for renewing the attack upon the city, when we were suddenly arrested by a bugle with a [..] [unreadable word] of truce, approaching the forts. It was accompanied by Col. Marino, one of Gen. Ampudia's aids, bearing a letter to the GeneralinChief. He was conducted to me by Lieut. Col. Rogers, from the upper fort, and I furnished him a horse and escort to Maj. Gen. Taylor's quarters in camp. The firing on both sides was suspended until a conference could be held. This led to the capitulation by which the city was surrendered.
I have in my former report expressed my opinion in regard to the coolness and gallantry displayed by the officers and men under my command; and have only to add, that their conduct from the firing of the first to the last gun, was of the most meritorious character, richly deserving the approbation of their superior officers, and the gratitude of their countrymen.
Very respectfully, your obd't serv't
T.H. L. HAMER
Brig. Gen. Comd'g 1st division volunteers.
Major W. W. S. Bliss,
Assistant Adjutant General.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c4 General Taylor's Dispatch
TUESDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 24, 1846
General Taylor’s dispatch of the army’s position and operations.
We surrender our columns today to the long official despatch [sic] of G. Taylor, which will be read with deep interest. It is a lucid, dignified and modest narrative of one of the most brilliant achievements which history records. It shows that this able officer not only does his whole duty in the field, but what it almost as difficult, clearly portrays the whole facts to his admiring countrymen. Some one was not far out, when he declared that Gen. Taylor's despatches [sic] would proudly compare with Caesar's commentaries upon his great deeds of arms. Of course our readers will devour every line, and will need no prompting or guidance from us. We deem it just, however, to a gallant and injured officer, to call particular attention to what Major General Taylor says of Maj. Gen. W. O. Butler, of Kentucky. An attempt has been made, for party effect in some instances, to assail his fair reputation, first by charging him with cowardice, and then, in a most contradictory manner, with imprudence and rishness [sic]. Mark how the following passages, taken in connexion [sic] with the regular narrative it Gen. Taylor's dispatch, utterly put down these wantonly malicious and baseless tales. It appears, moreover, that Gen. Butler acted throughout, under the immediate instructions of Gen. Taylor:
"I take pleasure in bringing to the notice of the government the good conduct of the troops, both regulars and volunteers, which has been conspicuous throughout the operations. I am proud to bear testimony to their coolness and constancy in battle and the cheerfulness with which they have submitted to exposure and privation. To the general officers commanding divisions Major Generals Butler and Henderson, and Brigadier Generals Twiggs and Worth I must express my obligations for the efficient aid which they have rendered in their respective commands. I was unfortunately deprived, early on the 21st, of the valuable services of Major General Butler, who was disabled by a wound received in the attack on the city."
The rest of the interesting despatches [sic] shall appear very soon.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c5 TO ARMS!
In order to help along the good cause, we republish the following spirited
appeal of the two gallant young captains of this city. We cannot
doubt that recruits will flock to the standard of their country. We learn
that Capt. Scott will today visit the county of Hanover; and that himself
or representative will be at Goochland Courthouse on Thursday. Will
not the people of Eastern Virginia turn out to do their duty?
Already companies have offered their services from Lynchburg, Alexandria,
Jefferson and Berkeley counties, and two from this city. The moment
for action has arrived. Let the sons of Virginia see that she
win the honor of having the first Regiment in the field. Through
the term of enlistment be "during the war," we cannot believe that it can
continue more than a year. The finest spirit prevails in this
city. Let the country catch the inspiration, and bring forward
her sons, proud of the distinction of serving their native land.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c5 VOLUNTEERS OF VIRGINIA!!
Your country calls for your services. Virginia, who never yet faltered in the hour of peril, is required to furnish a Regiment of Infantry. We have engaged to enroll two Companies as a part of the Old Dominion's quota. Come, then, young and gallant men, of this timehonored Commonwealth, and gallantly sustain her high reputation for patriotism and devotion to the Union.
We have opened places of rendezvous in this city, where enrolments can be made and full explanations furnished. The service will afford opportunity for all of winning the highest distinction.
Quarters will be furnished to all at once who come from the country, and every comfort provided. Apply to either of the subscribers.
R.G. SCOTT, JR.
E. C. CARRINGTON,
Richmond, Nov. 21, 1846.
At a meeting of the Committee appointed by the Chairman of the meeting of citizens on Saturday, November 21st, 1846, to obtain subscriptions from our citizes for furnishing uniforms and supplies for the volunteers now being enrolled for the Mexican war, held at the office of Robert G. Scott, on the morning of Monday the 23rd of November, 1846, the following resolutions were proposed and adopted:
Resolved, That each member of the committee stand pledged to use his best efforts to promote the enrollment of volunteers.
Resolved, That a committee of eight from each ward be appointed to take around subscription lists and procure contributions from our citizens for furnishing clothing and supplies for the volunteers.
Resolved, That all contributions when received be paid over to John H. Cook, Esq., at the Farmers' Bank of Virginia, who is hereby appointed the Treasurer of the committee, and that he disburse the same, on the orders of the chairman of the ward committees.
Resolved, That the Ward Committees be, and they are hereby earnestly requested, diligently to perform the duties required of them, and make report to the Committee, on Saturday next, at 10 o'clock, A. M.
Resolved, That the committee now adjourn, to meet at the office of Robert G. Scott on Saturday next, at 10 o'clock, A. M.
ROBERT G. SCOTT, Chairman
Committee appointed under the second resolution:
For Jefferson Ward. Simon Cullen, Richard O. Haskins, George E. Sadler, James H. Grant, Titus C. Rice, John Freeman, Poitiaux Robinson.
For Madison Ward William A. Patterson, James Evans, Thomas B. Bigger, A. Morris, Thomas J. Deane, E. B. Ward, Peter W. Grubbs, John M. Sheppard, James Gardner, C. W. McMurdo, George H. Tompkins, James Allen, Jno. Q. James.
For Monroe Ward Charles Dimmock, Robert G. Scott, Walter D. Blair,
Henry L. Brooke, William P. Palmer, John Goddin, Jacob Shook, Mosby Woodson.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c5 VOLUNTEERS FOR MEXICO
Captain Robert G. Scott, or some member of the Corps of Volunteers, will
attend at Goochland Courthouse on Thursday next; also, at Taylorsville,
Hanover Courthouse, Cold Harbor, and Louisa Courthouse to receive
the names of volunteers. The list is rapidly filling up, and no doubt can
now be entertained that the two hundred will be obtained from this Congressional
District.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c3 LATEST FROM MEXICO
[from the N.O. Jeffersonian, Extra, Nov. 16]
IMPORTANT NEWS!
Another Revolution!! By the brig. Havne, just arrived from Havana, we have been put into possession of Havana papers to the 6th instant. Their contents, which we condense, will be found important at this crisis of our Mexican relations.
The English steamer (name omitted) arrived at Havana from Vera Cruz on the 6th after a passage of four days. She brought 102 passengers the principal part of whom were Mexicans who had left Mexico on account of the prosecution of the war.
Our dates from Vera Cruz are to the 31st ult:
On the 27th October, M. Pacheco Minister of foreign relations, and Don Crescencio Rejon, Minister of Mercy and Justice, threw up their commissions. Their resignation was accepted by the President ad interim, and Don Jose Maria Lafragna and Don Joaquine Ladron de Guevara had been appointed to their stead.
The Department of San Luis Potosi has declared against the Presidency of Gen. Salas, and the people of that Department have declared their opposition to entrusting the affairs of the government either to Santa Anna, or any other person whom he may select. The confidence which previous advices seemed to have placed in Santa Anna by the people of Mexico, appears to have been without foundation.
Santa Anna is reported to have arrived with his handful of troops at San Luis Potosi on the 8th October, and established his headquarters. He immediately commenced a correspondence with General Salas, expressive of his confidence in his administration, and pledging him his support in any endeavor to sustain him. This, too, in the very face of the expression of the people against Salas, by the people at San Luis Potosi. Verily, Santa Anna is playing a deep game, which time alone will expose.
The dates from the city of Mexico are the 25th and 26th October. From these we learn that Don Felix Rivas, charged by the executive of Mexico with a special commission, the contents of which have not transpired, left the capital on the 24th for Vera Cruz, with instructions to make his way to Havana with all dispatch. We heartily hope that our fleet will intercept him, and keep up a stricter blockade than that which is represented as being kept up at present.
Gen. Salas having had his life threatened, left the palace on the 28th October, and made his way safely to Gacubaya, where he was received very cordially by don Flores. The President ad interim took with him in his flight some of the best troops which garrisoned the capital.
It is reported that Santa Anna has expressed his approval of Lafragua and Guevara.
It is rumored that the U. S. steamers off Green Island are short of coal, and the crews suffering from scurvy.
The Mexican papers estimate the expenses of the war thus far, on the part of the United States, at seventyfive millions of dollars. This is Mexican calculation. The Mexican papers think that to continue the war will prove highly advantageous to the Mexicans, as the advances of the foe should be met by light skirmishes and other embarrassments, until the Americans shall be expelled from the country.
Extract of a letter dated Vera Cruz, Oct. 12th:
"Commodore Connor yesterday addressed a letter of thanks to the General commanding this place, thanking him for the courtesy and kindness shown to the officers and crew of the Truxion.
"An attack on the Castle of San Juan d' Ullca and the town of Vera Cruz was expected to take place this week. The enthusiasm and valor which was displayed by the Mexicans at Monterey, will not fail here."
"The National Guard are approaching Vera Cruz by forced marches."
Several private letters from the "Army of the North," state that Santa Anna had ordered all the troops at Saltillo to San Luis Potosi.
Most of
the foregoing information is derived from extracts of private letters received
at Havana, and expressive only of Mexican views.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c3 SANTE FE
[from the Independence Expositor]
From the Independence Expositor we glean the following items of
news: Gen. Kearney will proceed to Monterey in California. Col.
Doniphan is to recover the stolen property from the Navagoes, force them
to make a treaty, or punish them. If he can then procure supplies, he
will advance with his Regiment to Chihuahua. The companies under
command of Capts. Waldo and Stevenson are stationed at Taos, under Major
Gilpin.
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p2c4 LATER FROM MEXICO
[from the N.O. Jeffersonian, Extra]
In another column will be found an Extra from the N. O. Jeffersonian, with some interesting news. We have before us an Extra Picayune of the same date, which says that the State of San Luis Potosi has pronounced against the Presidency of Gen. Salas, demanding that Gen. Santa Anna should assume the Executive functions, or some one named by him. This latter version is different from the Jeffersonian's account. The Picayune thinks that Santa Anna is determined that Gen. Salas shall not obtain to absolute an ascendancy it being reported that Salas is honest enough to attempt to carry into effect all the guaranties of the revolution of Jalisco and the citadel. Santa Anna is playing a deep game. On the 23rd Oct. he addressed the following letter of professions to Salas:
HEADQUARTERS OF THE LIBERATING ARMY,}
In Campaign. }
Most Excellent Sir: Ry the Circular of your Excellency of the 19th inst., I have learned with deep concern that the foreign enemies of the country, by means of their secret agents, circulated malicious reports on the night of that day, with a view to produce an impression that there was a plan on foot to deprive of power his Excellency, the General charged with supreme Executive authority, which reports led to most serious alarm, that might have produced lamentable consequences had not the artifice been very opportunely discovered.
I rejoice exceedingly that tranquility and public confidence have been reestablished, and agreeably to the wishes of the Supreme Government, I shall take care that these great blessings are not distrubed [sic] in these States, and especially in the army under my command. I assure your Excellency that this army shall not entertain any other idea than that of struggling against the foreign enemy, fulfulling [sic] its duties towards the country, and scouting the suggestions with which it is sought to divert it from such noble aims. I have the honor of reiterating, & c. God and Liberty.
Antonio Lopez De Santa Anna.
October 23rd, 1846,
To the Secretary of War.
An influential Mexican paper says, that Santa Anna will withdraw the troops from Tampico and Saltillo, and concentrate a large army at San Luis, and then make an offensive attack.
To show the policy of Mexico and the vast importance of a most active
and vigorous prosecution of the war on our part, we quote a Vera Cruz paper,
which, after stating that the war has already cost the United States the
sum of sixtyfive millions of dollars, adds: "To prolong it is
[...] [unreadable line].
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p3c6 ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS!
Captain Carrington's company of volunteers are hereby notified to rendezvous
forthwith in the city of Richmond. The company is now organizing
anew, in accordance with the recent instructions of the Secretary of War,
and will march as soon as its organization shall be completed. The term of enlistment will be during the continuance of the war with
Mexico. The new requisition raises the number of privates in the company
to EIGHTY instead of SIXTYFOUR, as before required. Several
vacancies have been occasioned by the removal from the city of some of the
original volunteers, and by other causes so that the whole number of vacancies
to be supplied is not less than thirty. Volunteers in the
country, whether members of the original company or not, are recommended
to repair to the city as soon practicable. Applications for enlistment
should be made to the Captain at his office, corner of 11th and Bank Streets.
By order of the Captain.—Nov. 20
[AMB]
Friday, November 24, 1846 REv43i60p4c2 ALEXANDRIA IN THE FIELD!
Saturday Morning, November 21, 1846 [from the Enquirer]
At the moment of our warmly advocating the "reannexation" of Alexandria to the Old Dominion, we predicted that her sons would do their duty as good citizens having entered into the alliance "for better for worse," prepared to enjoy the benefits and share the responsibilities of the new connexion [sic]. The following from the Alexandria Gazette shows that we did not misconstrue their character. At the first call of their country, they step forward as citizens of Virginia to meet her engagements. We do not know what may be the decision of Governor Smith, but if it be compatible with his opinions and duty, we should be glad to see these "harden young Virginians" enrolled among the troops from the State:
"A PROMPT RESPONSE We are informed that immediately upon the receipt of intelligence that the War Department had made a requisition upon the State of Virginia for one regiment of infantry, to serve during the was against Mexico, the Alexandria Volunteers of this place, under the command of Captain M. D. Corse [sic], made a tender of their services to governor Smith, to form a part of the regiment thus called for. As our town is now de facto a part and parcel of the State, we see no reason to doubt that the offer will be accepted as promptly as it was made. This is the second time that the "Alexandria Volunteers" have tendered their services since the commencement of the war, and it reflects the highest credit upon their patriotism and public spirit. The ranks of the company, we learn, are not at this time quite filled up but they, doubtless, will be as soon as it shall be made known that their services have been accepted."
We are glad to see from the Standard that in our own city the worthy and spirited young Captains Scott and Carrington are recruiting for the Mexican service under the Virginia requistion [sic], with every prospect of success; their ranks fast filling up. We renew the request made to the Standard, which is, to state that, to a certain extent, uniforms have already been provided, and, as far as they go, will be furnished gratis to Capt. Carrington's recruits.
We look forward confidently to a prompt and efficient organization of the regiment from this State. Virginia never was backward, when the country needed her services. Many of her brave sons have hitherto panted for an opportunity of distinguishing themselves. It is now presented under most auspicious circumstances. The season of the year is most favorable, those fond of adventure and travel will be delighted with the natural beauties of a country blessed by Heaven but cursed by the wickedness and vice of man, and, unless we mistake the signs of the times, the new recruits will be saved all the ennui and irritations of inactive life in camp, and will have an opportunity of meeting danger and reaping honors in the field. We cannot think it necessary, but duty impels us to make an earnest appeal to Virginia pride of character, and to invoke her young men to come forward promptly and enthusiastically. Let not the slur be cast upon the Old Dominion, that her sons, who, last summer, so cordially enrolled their names, should now be backward in meeting the new state of circumstances when their services are really required. Is there a Virginian who could tamely bear the disgrace of seeing a draft put in operation? In a short time, we doubt not, we shall have the pleasure of recording the fact, that the Virginia Regiment has been made up of zealous and efficient men, who freely offer themselves to serve until the termination of the war shall announce the chastisement of an insolent foe and his ample reparation for the many insults and injuries inflicted upon our country and our fellowcitizens.
We understand that Gov. Smith has suggested to the Secretary of War the
importance of fixing the rendezvous for the troops from Eastern Virginia
in this city or Old Point. We think it probable that a proposition,
so desirable, will be acceded to. We also hear, that Gov. Smith has directed
that quarters and rations for the recruits collectd here, be provided at
the State Armory.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p1c6 MEXICAN LETTERS OF MARQUE
IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO
Information has been received in this city of the fact that the steamer Tay, in its last trip from Vera Cruz to Havana, took out three hundred letters of marque, with naturalization papers conferring the rights and privileges of Mexican citizens upon all who would sail under them. This information comes in an authentic form. It was expressed from Mexico on the evening of the 30th ult., and reached Vera Cruz in time for the Tay, the vessel in which the letters of marque were mailed, by which it was taken to Havana, and thence it was brought here by the late arrival.
A letter from Havana, has also been received announcing the arrival there
of those letters of marque. The writer was of the opinion that
the Spanish Government would not permit the letters to be used in the port
of Havana, but adds, as naturalization papers offering extraordinary privileges
accompany them, it is probable some of them may slip out upon our commerce
despite of the vigilance of the authorities.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p1c6 THIRD ATTEMPT UPON ALVARADO
A letter from the Gulf Squadron says that Com. Conner informed the Captains of the several ships that he again intended to attack Alvarado with 2,000 men. The following ships he intends to anchor off the fortress at the mouth of the river for the purpose of bombarding it:
Frigates Cumberland, Raritan. Potomac and steam frigates Mississippi
and Princeton. The steamers Vixen and McLane
with the gunboats Reefer, Forward, Petral and Bonita,
will proceed directly up the river, and attack the fort.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p1c5 DEPARTURE OF MAJ. GEN. SCOTT FOR THE SEAT OF WAR
Washington, November 24
General Scott and his Staff are ordered to Mexico to give additional spirit and direction to the Army. This new movement is the result of the recent communications and conferences of which I made mention in my letter of this morning, and has grown out of recent events in Mexico, and advices from the headquarters of the army.
Gen. Scott was to leave in the mail boat this morning, and has probably gone. His destination is Tampico, but with large additional powers to control his actions when upon the ground.
From both the Navy and War Departments, I learn that every preparation
is making for an attack upon Tampico. The force command by Maj.
Gen. Patterson will march from Matamoras down by the coast through Tamaulipas.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p1c5 CAPTURE OF TABASCO
Tuesday night's Union contains the official despatches [sic] from Commodore Conner. We have room today but for the following letter of Com. Conner. The other despatches [sic] of this great and successful achievement shall appear tomorrow. We rejoice that the Navy have had an "opportunity" of winning the praise and admiration of the whole country:
U. S. SHIP CUMBERLAND,
Off Vera Cruz, Nov. 5, 1846.
Sir: Herewith is transmitted a copy of a letter from Com. Perry, accompanied by copies of other communications, giving a detailed account of his operations with a detachment of the squadron in the river Tabasco. The objects of the expedition have been fully accomplished, and by the destruction or capture of all the enemy's vessels, a check has been given to a commerce, by which munitions of war were, no doubt, introduced into Mexico from the neighboring province of Yucatan. Much praise is due to Commodore Perry for the skill and judgment manifested throughout the whole expedition.
The department will learn with regret the death of Lieut. Charles W. Morris, which took place on the 1st instant, on board the Cumberland, from a wound received at the town of Tabasco on the 26th ult. He was an officer of great promise, and his loss is a most serious one to the service.
I am, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant
D. CONNER,
Commanding Home Squadron.
Hon. JOHN Y. MASON,
Secretary of the Navy, Washington.
The Union says:
At a late hour this evening we received the official reports from the squadron, which we lay before our readers in another column. They add another most brilliant and successful incident in the official records of the war, and in this instance it is our gallant navy that triumphs. The attack of Commodore Perry appears to have been admirably planned and executed. We have had time as yet only to give a passing glance to the dispatches, and we must reserve more extended comment upon them till tomorrow evening.
The country will learn with profound sorrow that this achievement, full of success and honor as it is, has yet cost our nation and our naval service the life of one of its most gallant and accomplished young officers, Lieut. Morris, bearing a name already eminently distinguished in the triumphs of our navy. He has given to that name, in his death of heroic duty and devotion, a new and more sorrowful renown. His countrymen will mourn his fate, while they remember his patriotic valor with gratitude and pride.
CAPTURE OF TABASCO!
OFFICIAL DESPATCHES
A detailed account of the Proceedings of the Expedition, under my command along the Eastern Coast of Mexico
I left the anchorage at St. John Lizardo on the evening of the 16th of October, with the steamer "Mississippi", having on board a detachment of 200 officers, seamen and marines, under command of Captain French Forrest, and in tow, the steamer "Vixen", and schooners "Bonita", "Reefer", and "Nonata," respectively commanded by Commander Sands, and Lieutenants Commandant Benham, Sterrett and Hazard, and the schooner "Forward," and steamer "McLane," commanded by Captains Nonces and Howard, of the revenue marine.
The next morning at daylight I captured, off the bar of Alvarado, the American barque "Coosa", found in treasonable communication with the enemy; and the same day the "Vixen" chased and boarded the American schooner "Portia". The "Coosa" was despatched [sic] to this place as a prize, and the "Portia" was permitted to proceed, her papers having been endorsed. From the day of our leaving Alvarado [the 17th] up to the 22nd, we had a succession of very bad weather, which gave me much trouble in keeping my little command together. During the interval, however, we captured and sent (in the Mexican schr."Telegraph").
On the 23rd, all the vessels, with the exception of the "Reefer," (previously separated in a gale,) reached the bar of the river Tabasco; and having determined on attacking the commerical [sic] town of Frontera, at the mouth of the river, and the city of Tabasco, situated 74 miles higher up, I placed myself on board the "Vixen", leaving the "Mississippi" in command of Commander Adams at anchor outside, and taking in tow the "Bonita" and "Forward", with the barges containing the detachment under command of Capt. Forrest, I crossed the bar, the "Nonata" following under sail!
The "Vixen" with this heavy drag steadily ascended the stream against a fourknot current, and arriving near to Frontera, I discovered two steamers (of which I had received previous information) firing up, doubtless in the hope of escape, but we were too close upon them. Casting off her tow, the "Vixen" proceeded ahead, followed by the other vessels and barges, and at once the town, the steamers, and all the vessels in port were in our possession, excepting only the schooner "Amado", which vessel, attempting to escape up the river, was pursued by Lieut. Commandant Benham in the "Bonita", and captured.
Desirous of reaching Tabasco before they would have time for increasing their defences [sic], the detachment under Captain Forrest was placed on board the largest of the captured steamers, the "Petrita", and she, with the "Nonata", the Forward," and the barges in tow, and the "Vixen" with the "Bonita", left Frontera at half past 9 the next morning; Lieut. Walsh being left in command of the place.
After steaming all night, and encountering various incidents arising from the rapidity of the current and circuitous course of the stream, we arrived at 9 the next morning in sight of fort Aceachappa, intended to command a most difficult pass of the river. On our approach, the men employed in preparing the guns for service fled, and we passed it unmolested, but I was careful to cause the guns to be spiked.
Anticipating serious resistance at this place, arrangements had been made for landing Capt. Forrest with his detachment a mile below the fort, to march up and carrying it by storm.
At noon, all the vessels anchored in line of battle in front of the city at halfmusket range, when I immediately summoned it to surrender, the boats meanwhile being employed in securing five merchant vessels found at anchor in the port.
To my summons sent by a flag with Captain Forrest, a refusal to capitulate was returned, with an invitation to me to fire as soon as I pleased. Suspecting, as I did, that this answer was give more in bravado than in earnest, and being extremely reluctant to destroy the place, I entertained the hope that a few shots fired over the buildings would have caused a surrender. Accordingly, I directed the guns of the "Vixen" alone to be fired, and at the flag staff, sending an order to all the vessels to avoid, so far as possible, in case of general fire, injury the houses distinguished by consular flags.
At the third discharge from the "Vixen", the flag disappeared from the staff. On seeing it down, I ordered the firing to cease, and sent Captain Forrest again ashore to learn whether it had been cut down by our shot, or purposely struck; the reply was, that it had been shot away, and the city would not be surrendered.
I now directed Capt. Forrest, with the force under his command, to land and take a position in the city, commanded by our guns. This movement brought on a scattering fire of musketry from various parts of the city, which was returned by the flotilla
Perceiving towards evening that the enemy did us but little injury, though openly exposed on the decks of the small vessels, and their balls passing through our slight bulwarks, and apprehending, from the proverbial b[…]ness of sailors, that should they and the marines be attacked in the narrow streets after dark, they, would be cut off by sharpshooters from the houses, I ordered the detachment to be reembarked.
In this position the vessels remained all night, the crews lying at their quarters ready to return the fire of the artillery of the enemy, which it was supposed they would have had the courage to have brought down under cover of the night to the openings of the streets opposite to our vessels, but they left us undisturbed.
Learning that the merchants, and other citizens of the city were desirous that a capitulation should be made, but were overruled by the Governor, who, regardless of consequences, and secure himself against attack, was content that the city should be destroyed rather than surrendered, I determined from the motives
of humanity not to fire again, but to pass down to Frontora with my prizes.
In the morning, however, the fire was recommenced from the shore, and was necessarily returned, but with renewed orders to regard the consular houses, so far as they could be distinguished. In the midst of the fire, a flag of truce was displayed on shore; on perceiving which, I caused the firing again to cease, and Captain Forrest was sent to meet its bearer, who submitted a written communication addressed to me; a copy of which with a copy of my reply, marked B and C, will be found enclosed.
As an assurance of my sincerity, I now hoisted a white flag, and directed the prizes to drop down the stream, intending to follow with the flotilla; but in violation of the understanding implied in the before mentioned correspondence, the enemy, in discovering that one of the prizes had drifted ashore in front of the city, collected a large force within and behind the houses in the vicinity, and commenced a furious fire upon her. Lieut. Parker, of this ship, in command of the prize defended her in the most gallant manner, and ultimately succeeded in getting her again afloat, having one of her men killed and two wounded.
It was in carrying an order to Lieut. Parker, that Lieut. Morris was wounded. He had been of infinite service to me from the time we left Lizardo, and conducting himself during the bombardment with remarkable deliberation and coolness, he approached the prize in a line to cover his boat, and, though apparently regardful of the safety of the officer and men of the boat, who were seated, he stood erect himself, and the ball struck him in the throat. No one can deplore the fate of the very valuable young officer more than myself. His loss is irreparable to the service and to his family.
It may well be supposed that on perceiving the attack upon the prize, I reopened upon the city which again silenced their fire. I now proceeded with the flotilla and prizes down the river. One of the prizes, a small schooner of little value, having grounded in a dangerous pass, and knowing that it would be difficult to extricate her without causing inconvenient delay, I ordered her to be burned.
We arrived safely at Frontera on the evening of the 26th, the "Vixen" having towed down the river five vessels and several barges.
From Fontera I despatched [sic] my prizes to this place; and after destroying all the vessels and craft found in the river of to little value to be manned, I proceeded on the 31st to rejoin you, leaving the "McLane" and "Forward" at anchor opposite Frontera to continue the blockade of the river, and to afford protection and shelter to the neutral merchants, residents of the place, who professed themselves in apprehension of violence from the Mexican soldiery should they be left unprotected.
On our way to this place the prize steamer Petrita, in company and in sight of this vessel, captured the American brig "Plymouth," found engaged in landing a cargo upon the enemy's coast.
M.C. PERRY.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p1c5 RICHMOND IN THE FIELD!
From the Company order in another column, it will be seen that Captain Carrington's Company of Volunteers for Mexico will be fully organized on Saturday next the number now enlisted, leaving no doubt that it will be full at that time. We rejoice at the success which has attended Captain C's energetic and spirited exertions.
We are equally pleased to hear that Captain Scott is rapidly filling up
the ranks of his Company of Greys. Yesterday morning he had enrolled
about fifty recruits. The remainder, we doubt not, will be promptly
made up. He deserves high credit for his ind[…] zeal in meeting the emergency.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p2c2 OFFICIAL DESPATCHES FROM GENERAL WOOL
HEADQUARTERS, COAHUILA, MEXICO
Near Presido, 14th October, 1846
Sir: I have the honor to report that I arrived with about 1,300 men at the Rio Grande on the morning of the 8th instant, and crossed the river on the 9th, 10th, and 11th instan, without any serious accident, and encamped three miles west of the Presidio, and nine miles from the river, which, at the time of the crossing, was four feet three inches deep. By unloading and raising the articles a foot in the wagons, we were enabled to cross the ford. The Infantry crossed in the boats prepared at San Antonio.
Colonel Hardin, with eight companies of the 1st regiment of Illinois volunteers, came up on the evening of the 12th. Yesterday he crossed the river, and will join us in the course of an hour. We have been compelled to delay a few days to repair our train, 170 wagons, carrying fifty five days' rations, and to recruit our horses and mules; much reduced by a long march, without anything but prairie grass to feed on.
A part of the train had traveled from La Vaca, three hundred and thirty miles, without a day's rest. We shall resume our march with about 1,800 men, on the morning of the 16th instant, after leaving a company to take charge of the boats, and the ford of the Rio Grande, until the rear of my column under the direction of Col. Churchill arrives, which is expected in the course of ten days.
Unfortunately the quartermaster's department is without specie. Treasury notes are of no use to us, as the Mexicans will take nothing but gold and silver. With private means, and borrowing, we shall be able to pay for half rations of corn during our stay at this place. Whether I shall be able to succeed as well at other towns is doubtful. My route to Chihuahua will be through San Fernando, Santa Rosa, and perhaps Monclova. At this point I will endeavor to open a communication with General Taylor, which it would seem, will be necessary on account of supplies. As soon as the wet season commences our communications with San Antonio and Presidio will be, in a great measure, cut off the route in many places, independent of the streams, will be impassable. Hence, I will be compelled to establish a depot of supplies at Monclova, or some other point in the interior, and on a route leading to General Taylor's army, or depot of supplies. The supplies in the country are limited. A partial amount of flour and corn, and full rations of beef, can be obtained. I have ordered the quartermaster's department to forward, as fast as possible, all the subsistence he could obtain between this and the middle of November, when it is thought we may have our communications interrupted by wet weather.
Brigadier General shields arrived yesterday, and confirmed the previous intelligence of a hardfought battle between Gen. Taylor and Ampudia, and also of the capitulation. This morning I was informed by an intelligent Mexican, that Santa Anna had arrived at Saltillo with 13,00, and with those of Ampudia, making a force of 16,000 men. It is also stated that the government had called out 60,000 militia. In a few days I shall know the truth of the rumor. I herewith send you a copy of an order issued on the arrival of the troops on the Rio Grande. Also, a report of Lieut. Kingsbury's, of the route and days' march from San Antonio to this place.
I am, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
JOHN E. WOOL,
Brigadier General.
To Brigadier Gen. Jones,
Adjutant General United States Army.
[ORDERS. NO.89]
HEADQUARTERS CAMP ON THE RIO GRANDE,}
Near Presidio, 9th October, 1846
}
Soldiers! After a long and tedious march you have arrived on the bank of the Rio Grande. In the performance of this service, the commanding General has witnessed, with the greatest pleasure, your patience, good order and perseverence [sic], under many deprivations and hardships. All have done their duty, and in a manner that reflects the highest credit on both officers and men. From this remark he would not except his staff, who have actively and zealously devoted themselves to the service, whilst Captain Cross had been eminently successful in forwarding his long train of supplies, without delay or serious accident.
Tomorrow you will cross the Rio Grande, and occupy the territory of our enemies. We have not come to make war upon the people or peasantry of the country, but to compel the government of Mexico to render justice to the United States. The people, therefore, who do not take up arms against the United States, and remain quiet and peaceful at their homes, will not be molested or interfered with, either as regards their persons or property; and all those who furnish supplies will be treated kindly, and whatever is received from them will be liberally paid for.
It is expected of the troops that they will observe the most rigid discipline and subordination. All depredations on the persons or property of the people of the country are strictly forbidden; And any soldier or follower of the camp, who may so far forget his duty as to violate this in junction will be severely punished.
By command of Brigadier Gen. Wool.
JAMES H, PRENTISS,
Assistant Adjutant General
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p3c1 DEATH OF MAJOR LEAR
We have received (says the Union) from the office of the Adjutant General of the Army the following copy of the order issued by General Taylor, announcing the death of this brave and lamented officer:
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF OCCUPATION}
CAMP NEAR MONTEREY, Nov. 1, 1846
}
The melancholy duty devolves upon the Commandinggeneral of announcing to the army the decease of Major W. W. Lear, 3rd infantry, who expired yesterday of the wound received while gallantly leading his regiment in the action of the 21st September.
A long and creditable service, commencing in the war of 1812, has thus been sadly but nobly closed. Kind and generous in his private relations, and though feeble, from the ravages of protracted disease, faithful, zealous and efficient in the discharge of duty, the relatives and friends of the deceased major, and the service at large, have sustained in his death no ordinary loss.
The deceased will be interred at 4 o'clock, P. M., this day with the honors due to his rank. All officers off duty are respectfully invited to attend his funeral at the headquarters of his late regiment the 3d infantry.
By order of Major General Taylor.
W. W. S. Bliss,
Assistant Adjutant General
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p4c7 FIRST REGIMENT CALLED OUT
Gov. Wright on Friday received the President's requisition for a Regiment of Volunteers, to serve, during the war. It was left with him to designate the Regiment, and he selected the first. The following is a list of the officers of the Regiment:
Ward B. Burnet, Colonel
James C. Burnham, Major
The Lt. Colonel resigned a fortnight since, and his place has not yet been filled.
Captains: Chas. H. Shaw, Gen. Count de Bongars, James Banlay, J. P. Taylor, Jas. L. Hewitt, Charles Kearsing, D. E. Hungerford, T. S. Gaszyniski, Martin Fairchild, L. R. Campbell.
All the companies, with their officers, are located in the city of N.
York. They will be immediately put in readiness for embarkation.
It is understood, if any further requisitions are mustered, that Gov. Wright
will take the Regiments in their order. [N. Y. Journal of Commerce
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p4c1 FROM MONTEREY
OFFICIAL DESPATCHES FROM GEN. TAYLOR
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF OCCUPATION
CAMP NEAR MONTEREY, Oct. 9, 1846
Sir: I have now the honor to submit a detailed report of the recent operations before Monterey, resulting in the capitulation of that city.
The information received on the route from Cerralvo, and particularly the continual appearance in our front of the Mexican cavalry, which had a slight skirmish with our advance at the village at Ramas, induced the belief, as we approached Monterey, that the enemy would defend that place. Upon reaching the neighborhood of the city on the morning of the 19th of September, this belief was fully confirmed. It was ascertained that he occupied the town in force that a large work had been constructed, commanding all the Northern approaches; and that the Bishop's Palace and some heights in its vicinity near the saltillo road, had also been fortified and occupied with troops and artillery. It was known, from information previously received, that the Eastern approaches were commanded by several small works in the lower edge of the city.
The configuration of the heights and gorges in the direction of the Saltillo road, as visible from the point attained by our advance on the morning of the 19th, led me to suspect that it was practicable to turn all the works in that direction, and thus cut the enemy's line of communication. After establishing my camp at the "Walnut springs", three miles from Monterey, the nearest suitable position, it was, accordingly my first care to order a close reconnoissance [sic] of the ground in question, which was executed on the evening of the 19th by the engineer officers under the direction of Major Mansfield. A reconnoissance [sic] of the Eastern approaches was at the same time made by Captain Williams, topographical engineers. The examination made by Major Mansfield proved the entire practicability of throwing forward a column to the Saltillo road, and thus turning the position of the enemy. Deeming this to be an operation of essential importance, orders were given to Brevet Brig. Gen. Worth, commanding the second division, to march with his command on the 20th; to turn the hill of the Bishop's Palace; to occupy a position on the Saltillo road, and to carry the enemy's detached works in that quarter, where practicable. The first regiment of Texas mounted volunteers, under command of Col. Hays, was associated with the second division on this service. Capt. Sanders, engineers, and Lieut. Meade, topographical engineers, were also ordered to report to Gen. Worth for duty with his column.
At 2 o'clock, P.M., on the 20th, the second division took up its march. It was soon discovered by officers who were reconnoitering the town, and communicated to Gen. Worth, that this movement had been perceived, and that the enemy was throwing reinforcements towards Bishop's Palace and the height which commands it. To divert his attention as far as practicable, the first division, under Brigadier General Twiggs, and field division of volunteers under Major General Butler, were displayed in front of the town until dark. Arrangements were made at the same time to place from the enemy's main work, the citadel, two 24pounder howitzers, and a 10 inch mortar, with a view to open fire on the following day, when I proposed to make a diversion in favor of Gen. Worth's movement. The 4th Infantry covered this battery during the night. Gen. Worth had in the meantime reached and occupied for the night, a defensive position just without range of a battery above the Bishop's Palace, having made a reconnoisance [sic] as far as the Saltillo road.
Before proceeding to report the operations of the 21st and following days, I beg leave to state that I shall mention in detail only those which were conducted against the eastern extremity of the city, or elsewhere, under my immediate direction referring you for the particulars of Gen. Worth's operations, which were entirely detached, to his own full report transmitted herewith.
Early on the morning of the 21st, I received a note from Gen. Worth, written at halfpast 9 o'clock the night before suggesting what i had already intended, a strong diversion against the center and left of the town, to favor his enterprise against the heights in rear. The infantry and artillery of the 1st division, and the fields division of volunteers were ordered under arms and took the direction of the city, leaving one company of each regiment as a camp guard. The 2d dragoons, under Lieut. Col. May, and Col. Wood's regiment of Texas mounted volunteers, under the immediate direction of Gen. Henderson, were directed to the right to support Gen. Worth, if necessary, and to make an impression, if practicable, upon the upper quarter of the city. Upon approaching the mortar battery, the 1st and third regiments of infantry, and battalion of Baltimore and Washington volunteers, with Capt. Bragg's field batterythe whole under the command of Lieut. Co. Garland were directed towards the lower part of the town, with orders to make a strong demonstration, and carry one of the enemy's advanced works, if it could be done without too heavy a loss. Major Mansfield, engineers, and Capt. Williams and Lieut. Pope, topographical engineers accompanied this column, Maj. Mansfield being charged with its direction, and the designation of points of attack. In the meantime the mortar, served by Capt. Ramsay of the ordnance, and the howitzer battery under Captain Webster, 1st artillery, had opened their fire upon the citadel, which was deliberately sustained and answered from the work. Gen. Butler's division had now taken up a position in rear of this battery, when discharges of artillery, mingled finally with a rapid fire of small arms, showed that Lieut. Col. Garland's command had become warmly engaged. I now deemed it necessary to support this attack, and accordingly ordered the 4th infantry and three regiments of Gen. Butler's division to march at once by the left flank in the direction of the advanced work at the lower extremity of the town, leaving one regiment [1st Kentucky] to cover the mortar and howitzer battery. By some mistake, two companies of the 4th infantry did not receive this order, and consequently did not join the advance companies until sometime afterwards.
Lieut. Col. Garland's command had approached the town in a direction to the right of the advanced work (No. 1) at the northeastern angle of the city, and the engineer officer, covered by skirmishers, had succeeded in entering the suburbs and gaining cover. The remainder of this command now advanced and entered the town under a heavy fire of artillery from the citadel and the works on the left, and of musketry from the houses and small works in front. A movement to the right was attempted with a view to gain the rear of No. 1 and carry that work, but the troops were so much exposed to a fire which they could not effectually return, and had already sustained such severe loss, particularly in officers, that it was deemed best to withdraw them to a more secure position. Capt. Backus, 1st Infantry, however, with a portion of his own and other companies, had gained the roof of a tannery, which looked directly into the gorge of No. 1 and from which he poured a most destructive fire into that work and upon no.1, and contributed largely to the fall of that strong and important work.
The three regiments of the volunteer division under the immediate command of Major General Butler, had in the meantime advanced in the direction of No. 1. The leading brigade, under Brigadier General Quitman, continued its advance upon that work, preceded by three companies of the 4th infantry, while general Butler, with the 1st Ohio regiment entered the town to the right. The companies of the 4th infantry had advanced within short range of the work, when they were received by a fire that almost in one moment struck down onethird of the officers and men, and rendered it necessary to retire and effect a conjunction with the two other companies then advancing. General Quitman's brigade, though suffering most severely, particularly in the Tennessee regiment, continued its advance and finally carried the work in handsome style, as well as the strong building in its rear. Five pieces of artillery, a considerable supply of ammunition and thirty prisoners, including three officers, fell into our hands. Maj. Gen. Butler, with the 1st Ohio regiment, after entering the edge of the town, discovered that nothing was to be accomplished in his front, and at this point, yeilding [sic] to the suggestions of several officers, I ordered a retrograde movement; but learning almost immediately from one of my staff that the battery No. 1 was in our possession, the order was countermanded, and I determined to hold the battery and defences [sic] already gained. Gen. Butler, was with the 1st Ohio regiment, then entered the town at a point farther to the left, and marched in the direction of the battery No. 2. While making an examination with a view to ascertain the possibility of carrying this second work by storm, the General was wounded, and soon after compelled to quit the field. As strength of No. 2, and the heavy musketry fire flanking the approach, rendered it impossible to carry it without great loss, the 1st Ohio regiment was withdrawn from the town.
Fragments of the various regiments engaged were now under cover of the captured battery and some buildings in its front, and on the right. The field batteries of Captains Bragg and Ridgely were also partially covered by the battery. An incessant fire was kept up on his position from battery No. 2, and other works on its right, and from the citadel on all our approaches. General Twiggs, though quite unwell, joined me at this point, and was instrumental in causing the artillery captured from the enemy to be placed in battery, and served by Capt. Ridgely against No. 2, until the arrival of Capt. Webster's howitzer battery, which took its place. In the mean time, I directed such men as could be collected of the 1st, 3d, and 4th regiment, and Baltimore Battalion, to enter the town, penetrating to the right and carrying the 2d battery if possible. This command under Lieut. Col. Garland, advanced beyond the bridge "Purisima" when finding it impracticable t gain the rear of the 2d battery, a portion of it sustained themselves for some time in that advanced position; but as no permanent impression could be made at the point, and the main object of the general operation had been effected, the command including a section of Captain Ridgely's battery, which had joined, it was withdrawn to battery No. 1. During the absence of this column, a demonstration of cavalry was reported in the direction of the citadel. Captain Bragg, who was at hand, immediately galloped with his battery to a suitable position, from which a few discharges effectually dispersed the enemy. Capt. Miller, 1st infantry, was despatched [sic] with a mixed command, to support the battery on this service. The enemy's lancers had previously charged upon the Ohio and a part of the Mississippi regiment, near some fields at a distance from the edge of the town, and had been repulsed with considerable loss. A demonstration of calvary [sic] on the opposite side of the river was also dispersed in the course of the afternoon by Captain Ridgely's battery and the squadrons returned to the city. At the approach of evening all troops that been engaged were ordered back to camp, except Capt. Ridgely's battery, and the regular infantry of the 1st division, who were detailed as a guard for the works during the night under command of Lieut. col. Garland. One battalion of the 1st Kentucky regiment was ordered to reinforce this command. Entrenching tools were procured and additional strength was given to the works, and protection to the men, by working parties during the night, under the direction of Lieut. Scarritt, engineers.
The main object proposed in the morning had been effected. A powerful diversion had been made to favor the operations of the 2d division, one of the enemy's advanced works had been carried, and we now had a strong foot hold in the town. But this had not been accomplished without a very heavy loss, embracing some of our most gallant and promising officers. Capt. Williams, topographical engineers; Lieuts. Terrett and Dilworth, 1st infantry; Lieut. Woods 2d infantry; Capts. Morris and Field, Bvt. Maj. Barbour; Lieuts. Irwin and Hazlitt, 3rd infantry; Lieut. Hoskins, 4th infantry; Lieut. Col. Watson, Baltimore battalion; Capt. Allen and Lieut. Putman, Tennessee regiment; and Lieut. Hett, Ohio regiment, were killed, or have since died of wounds received in this engagement, while the number and rank of the officers wounded gives additional proof of the obstinacy of the contest and the good conduct of our troops. The number of killed and wounded incident to the operation in the lower part of the city on the 21st, is 394.
Early in the morning of this day, (21st) the advance of the 2d division had encountered the enemy in force, and after a brief but sharp conflict repulsed him with heavy loss. Gen. Worth then succeeded in gaining a position on the Saltillo road, thus cutting the enemy's line of communition [sic]. From this position the two heights South of the Saltillo road were carried in succession, and the gun taken in one of them turned upon the Bishop's Palace. These important successes were fortunately obtained with comparatively small loss; Capt. McKavett, 8th infantry, being the only officer killed.
The 22d day of September passed without any active operations in the lower part of the city. The citadel and other works continued to fire at parties exposed to their range, and at the work now occupied by our troops. The guard left in the proceeding night, except Captain Ridgely's company, was relieved at midday by Gen. Quitman's brigade. Capt. Bragg's battery was thrown under cover in front of the town to repel any demonstration of calvary in that quarter. At dawn of day, the height above the Bishop's Palace was carried, and soon after meridian; the Palace itself was taken and its guns turned upon the fugitive garrison. The object for which the 2d division was detaced [sic] had thus been completely accomplished, and I felt confident that with a strong force occupying the road and heights in his rear, and a good position below the city in our […], the enemy could not possibly maintain the town.
During the night of the 22d, the enemy evacuated nearly all his defences [sic] in the lower part of the city. This was reported to me early in the morning of the 23d by Gen. Quitman, who had already mediated an assault upon those works. I immediately sent instructions to that officer, leaving it to his discretion to enter the city covering his men by the houses and walls, and advance carefully as far as he might deem prudent. After ordering the remainder of the troops as a reserve, under the orders of Brigadier General Twiggs, I repaired to the abandoned works, and discovered that a portion of Gen. Quitman's brigade had entered the town, and were successfully forcing their way towards the principal plaza. I then ordered up the 2d regiment of Texas mounted volunteers who entered the city, dismounted, and, under the immediate orders of Gen. Henderson, cooperated with Gen. Quitman's brigade. Capt. Bragg's battery was also ordered up, supported by the 3rd infantry; and after firing for some time at the cathedral, a portion of it was likewise thrown into the city. Our troops advanced from house to house, and from square to square, until they reached a street but one square in rear of the principal plaza, in and near which the enemy's force was mainly concentrated. This advance was conducted vigorously but with due caution, and although destructive to the enemy, was attended with but small loss on our part. Captain Ridgely, in the meantime, has served a captured piece in battery No. 1 against the city, until the advance of our men rendered it imprudent to fire in the direction of the cathedral. I was now satisfied that we could operate successfully in the city, and that the enemy had retired from the lower portion of it to make a stand behind his barricades. As Gen. Quitman's brigade had been on duty the previous night, I determined to withdraw the troops to the evacuated works and concert with Gen. Worth a combined attack upon the town. The troops accordingly fell back deliberately, in good order, and assumed their original positions. General Quitman's brigade being relieved after nightfall by that of Gen. Hamer. On my return to camp, I met an officer with the intelligence that Gen. Worth, induced by the firing in the lower part of the city, was about making an attack at the upper extremity, which had also been evacuated by the enemy to a considerable distance. I regretted that this information had not reached me before leaving the city, but still deemed it inexpedient to change my orders, and accordingly returned to camp. A note from Gen. Worth written at eleven o'clock, P. M., informed me that he had advanced to within a short distance of the principal plaza, and that the mortar (which had been sent to his division in the morning) was doing good execution within effective range of the enemy's position.
Desiring to make no further attempt upon the city without complete concert as to the lines and mode of approach, I instructed that officer to suspend his advance until I could have an interview with him on the following morning at his headquarters.
Early on the morning of the 24th, I received, through Col. Moreno, a communication from Gen. Ampudia, proposing to evacuate the town; which, with the answer, were forwarded with my first dispatch. I arranged with Col. Moreno, a […] of fire until 12 o'clock, at which hour I would receive the answer of the Mexican General at Gen. Worth's headquarters, to which I soon repaired. In the meantime, General Ampudia had signified to Gen. Worth his desire for a personal interview with me, to which I acceded, and which finally resulted in a capitulation, placing the town and the material of war, with certain exceptions, in our possession. A copy of that capitulation was transmitted with my first dispatch.
Upon occupying the city, it was discovered to be of great strength in itself, and to have its approaches carefully and strongly fortified. The town and works were armed with fortytwo pieces of cannon, well supplied with ammunition, and manned with a force of at least 7,000 troops of the line, and from 2000 to 3000 irregulars. The force under my orders before Monterey, as exhibited by the accompanying return, was 425 officers and 6,220 men. Our artillery consisted of one 10inch mortar, two 24pound howitzers, and four light field batteries of four guns each the mortar being the only piece suitable to the operations of a siege.
Our loss is twelve officers and one hundred and eight men killed; thirtyone officers and three hundred and thirtyseven men wounded. That of the enemy is not known, but believed considerably to exceed our own.
I take pleasure in bringing to the notice of the Government the good conduct of the troops, both regulars and volunteers, which has been conspicuous throughout the operations. I am proud to bear testimony to their coolness and consitancy in battle, and the cheerfulness with which they have submitted exposure and privation. To the general officers commanding divisions Major Generals Butler and Henderson, and Brigadier Generals Twiggs and Worth I must express my obligations for the efficient aid which they have rendered in their respective commands. I was unfortunately deprived, early on the 21st, of the valuable services of Major General Butler who was disabled by a wound received in the attack on the city. Major General Henderson, commanding the Texas volunteers, has given me important aid in the organization of his command, and its subsequent operations. Brigadier General Twiggs rendered important services with his division, and, as the second in command after Major General Butler was disabled. Brigadier General Worth was intrusted [sic] with an important detachment, which rendered his operations independent of my own. Those operations were conducted with ability, and crowned with complete success. I desire also to notice Brigadier Generals Hamer and Quitman, commanding brigades in General Butler's division. Lieutenant Colonels Garland and Wilson, commanding brigades in Gen. Twiggs' division. Colonels Mitchell, Campbell, Davis and Wood commanding the Ohio, Tennessee, Mississippi, and 2d Texas regiments, respectively and Majors Lear, Allen and Abercrombie, commanding the 3rd, 4th and 1st regiments of infantry; all of whom served under my eye, and conducted their commands with coolness and gallantry against the enemy. Colonel Mitchell, Lieutenant Colonel McClung, Mississippi regiment, Major Lear, 3rd infantry and Major Alexander, Tennessee regiment, were all severely wounded.
Captains Bragg and Ridgely severed with their battles during the operations under my own observation, and in part under my immediate orders, and exhibited distinguished skill and gallantry. Capt. Webster, 1st artillery, assisted by Lieuts. Donaldson and Bowen, rendered good service with the howitzer battery, which was much exposed to the enemy's fire on the 21st.
From the nature of the operations, the 2d dragoons were not brought into action, but were usefully employed under the direction of Lieut. Col. May as escorts, and in keeping open our communications. The 1st Kentucky regiment was also prevented from participating in the action of the 21st, but rendered highly important services under Col. Ormsby, in covering the mortar battery, and holding in check the enemy’s cavalry during the day.
I have noticed above, the officers whose conduct fell under my own immediate eye or is noticed only in minor reports which are not forwarded. For further mention of individuals, I beg leave to refer to the reports of division commanders herewith respectfully transmitted. I fully concur in their recommendations, and desire that they may be considered as part of my own report.
I must express my particular obligations to Brevet Major Mansfield and Lieut. Scarritt, corps of engineers. They both rendered most important services in reconnoitering the enemy's positions, conducting troops in attack and strengthening the works captured from the enemy. Major Mansfield, though wounded on the 21st, remained on duty during that the following day, until confined by his wound to camp. Capt. Williams, topographical engineers, to my regret and the loss of the service, was mortally wounded while fearlessly exposing himself in the attack of the 21st. Lieut. Pope, of the same corps, was active and zealous throughout the operations. Major Munroe, chief of the artillery, Maj. Craig and Capt. Ramsay of the ordnance, were assiduous in the performance of their proper duties. The former superintended the mortar service on the 22d, as particularly mentioned in the report of Gen. Worth, to which I also refer for the services of the engineer and topographical officers detached with the second division.
Surgeon Craig, medical director, was actively employed in the important duties of his department, and the medical staff generally were unremitting in their attention to the numerous wounded their duties with the regular regiments being rendered uncommonly arduous by the small number serving in the field.
I respectfully enclose herewith, in addition to the reports of division commanders, a field return of the force before Monterey on the 21st September a return of killed, wounded, and missing during the operations and two topographical sketches one exhibiting all the movements around Monterey the other on a larger scale, illustrating more particularly the operations in the lower quarter of the city prepared respectively by Lts. Meade and Pope, topographical engineers.
I am, sir, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
Z. TAYLOR
Major General U. S. A. Com.
The ADJUTANT GENERAL OF THE ARMY
Washington, D. C.
[AMB]
Monday, November 27, 1846 REv43i61p4c6 NAVAL OPERATIONS IN THE PACIFIC
Extract of a letter, dated
MAZATLAN, Oct. 13, 1846.
"The United States ship Cyane has burned a Mexican vessel in the harbor of Guaymas, and afterwards bombarded the town. She has returned to Mazatlan, and with the Warren is blockading the port. On the arrival of the Commodore, an attack on it is expected."
Extract of a letter, dated
VERA CRUZ, Nov. 1.
Although the American Government has made overtures for peace, we fear
the obstinacy of these people will refuse a settlement.
[AMB]
December
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