| January-June 1845 | July-December 1845 | January-June 1846 | July-December 1846 |
| January-June 1847 | July-December 1847 | January-June 1848 | July-December 1848 |
January
RE47v43n71p1c2, January 1, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Tuesday, Dec. 29th, 1846. Bills passed concerning the volunteers.
RE47v43n71p1c3, January 1, 1847: From
the Pennsylvanian. THE MESSAGE.
Commentary on the President's message.
RE47v43n71p1c5, January 1, 1847: THE AUGUSTA VOLUNTEERS.
Results of the meeting of the Augusta Volunteers held in Richmond. Signed,
D.A. Stofer
RE47v43n71p1c6, January 1, 1847: Correspondence of the New York Mirror
Merits of newly promoted Captain Wallace.
RE47v43n71p1c7,
January 1, 1847: PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS.
Pennsylvania volunteers departed in front of immense crowds.
RE47v43n71p1c6, January 1, 1847: COURT SQUARE, Dec. 18, 1846.
Congratulations to a young Virginian who spoke well at a meeting. Signed
Charles L. Woodbury
RE47v43n71p2c1, January 1, 1847: Still
harping on my daughter
"Richmond Whig continues its work of defaming the Tenth Legion."
RE47v43n71p3c1, January 1, 1847: Report of the Secretary of the Navy.
RE47v43n71p4, January 1, 1847: Wreck of the Brig 'Somers' GREAT LOSS OF LIFE
RE47v43n71p4c5, January 1, 1847: COMMODORE
STEWART
Letter from Charles Stewart to the editors of the Pennsylvanian refuting
a past quote
RE47v43n72p1c1,
January 5, 1847: COLONEL OF THE LOUISIANA REGIMENT
Maj. Louis F. De Russy elected Colonel of the Louisiana Regiment of Volunteers
RE47v43n72p1c1, January 5, 1847: ENTHUSIASM OF THE COUNTRY
Pennsylvania and Mississippi have each already filled up the requisition
for a second regiment of volunteers.
RE47v43n72p1c1, January 5, 1847: Correspondence of the Journal of Commerce.
Monterey, Sep 19th, 1846. Author elected magistrate of
the area, and thinks the area requires a new judicial system. Signed
W.C.
RE47v43n72p1c2, January 5, 1847: Correspondence of the N.O. Picayune, Havana, 12/13/46
Capt. Araujo remains, rumors circulate that Mexico has sold two Men-of-war
to the French.
RE47v43n72p1c2, January 5, 1847: LATER FROM THE ARMY.
From the New Orleans Picayune, Dec. 25. Reports learned from the
arrival of the Massachusetts. News from Tampico
RE47v43n72p1c5, January 5, 1847: THE
WAR DUTY ON TEA AND COFFEE
Argument in favor of a tax on tea and coffee to support the war. Unsigned.
RE47v43n72p1c5, January 5, 1847: LATER FROM THE SOUTH
Picayune disputes reports in Galveston News that Col. Riley was recently
surrounded by 5,000 Mexicans under Gen. Urrea.
RE47v43n72p1c6, January 5, 1847: Untitled
News from departing troops, speeches delivered, meetings held.
RE47v43n72p1c6, January 5, 1847: ROCKINGHAM VOLUNTEERS
Currently under formation
RE47v43n72p1c6,
January 5, 1847: Mr. Bayly's SPEECH
In the future Mr. Bayly will mostly likely respond to the sketch of him
in the Union, that speech will be printed in the Enquirer.
RE47v43n72p1c7, January 5, 1847: MILITARY
MOVEMENTS
Steamer Alabama left New Orleans for the Rio Grande with companies
RE47v43n72p2c1, January 5, 1847: LATER FROM THE ARMY
From the N. Orleans Mercury, Dec. 28th Steamer Fashion
arrived from Brazos Santiago with reports from the Army
RE47v43n72p1c1, January 5, 1847: THE GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE
From the Wheeling Argus.
RE47v43n72p1c2,
January 5, 1847: THE MEXICAN WAR
During War the Enquirer has attempted to be impartial, but is impossible
considering the Whig actions
RE47v43n72p1c3, January 5, 1847: Battalion of Volunteers reached Old Point, one man drowned insteamer accident.
RE47v43n72p1c3, January 5, 1847: Trial of Edgar Barziza, member of Capt. Scott's Volunteers, postponed.
RE47v43n72p1c3, January 5, 1847: MORE
VOLUNTEERS.
Glad to here second company from Petersburg completed in a few days.
RE47v43n73p1c4, January 8, 1847: MORE
"AID AND COMFORT"
Commentary on a Whig article in the Hagerstown News angry
that a celebrated citizen would waste his talents on the war.
RE47v43n73p1c5, January 8, 1847: DEATH OF A GREAT MAN
Brigadier General Thomas L. Hamer, reknowned lawyer of Ohio, died in Camp
at Monterey.
RE47v43n73p1c5, January 8, 1847: Monterey,
Mexico, Dec. 10, 1846
Letter concerning the death of Gen. Hamer
RE47v43n73p1c5, January 8, 1847: Headquarters,
Army of Occupation
Letter concerning the death of Gen. Hamer
RE47v43n73p1c5, January 8, 1847: Reply to the Whig reply to the Enquirer's remarks on the Whig remarks about the Tenth Legion.
RE47v43n73p1c6, January 8, 1847: Eight swords to each of the officers of the two Richmond Companies of Volunteers.
RE47v43n73p1c7, January 8, 1847: Untitled
Remarks from the Baltimore Patriot and the Union on what should be
done about the war.
RE47v43n73p2c1, January 8, 1847: DESPATCH
OF THE PUBLIC BUISINESS-NAVY DEPATMENT.
Government dispatched two officers to the Pacific.
RE47v43n73p2c2, January 8, 1847: A MODERN JOAN D'ARC
Thrilling narrative of Mrs. Chase, the heroic wife of our consul at Tampico.
RE47v43n73p2c4, January 8, 1847: Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun, Washington, Jan. 5, 1847.
The recommendation of Secretary of War to create ten more regiments will
probably not occur.
RE47v43n73p4c1, January 8, 1847: THE EVENTS OF THE PAST YEAR
List of events of the past year in chronological order.
RE47v43n73p4c1, January 8, 1847: NEWS FROM THE WEST
N.Y.Herald reports that a party of our troops in Santa Fe lost five
hundred horses, and in return captured sixty-eight Indians of the Appache
nation.
RE47v43n73p4c3, January 8, 1847: INCREASE OF THE ARMY
To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States from the
President of the United States. Read in the Senate.
RE47v43n74p1c3, January 12, 1847: TERRIBLE ARM OF OFFENCE AND DEFENCE
Capt. Walker is unable to get 1000 revolving pistols for his rifle regiment
because of the high demand. Capt. Brown reports Santa Anna is
within 4 days of Saltillo with 15,000 troops. Other news.
RE47v43n74p1c6, January 12, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer.
Report of a Democratic meeting in Lynchburg.
RE47v43n74p1c7, January 12,
1847: INTERESTING CORRESPONDENCE
Robert Greenhow presents Col. Hamtramck with four copies of his History
of Oregon and California.
RE47v43n74p2c1, January 12, 1847: Commentary on the Whig supposition that the majority of the Virginia volunteers are Whigs.
RE47v43n74p2c1, January 12, 1847: Events of a dinner in Rocky Mount held on behalf of a newly appointed Major of the Virginia regiment of volunteers
RE47v43n74p2c1, January 12, 1847: The company of volunteers raised in Norfolk was not accepted by the Executive because Virginia's complement has already been made up.
RE47v43n74p2c2, January 12, 1847: All patriots deeply regret the question of slavery introduced into the discussions of Congress; it is premature.
RE47v43n74p2c2, January 12, 1847: BRIGADIER
GENERAL
Enquirer endorses the views that a Virginian should lead the brigade
formed by VA, SC, and NC. Letter signed, ROANOKE.
RE47v43n74p2c3, January 12, 1847: Reported in Raleigh Standard a Cherokee chief gives thanks to NC House of Commons for voting him 300 acres.
RE47v43n74p2c3, January 12, 1847: Much to our disappointment, no later news from the South, the mail having failed three times.
RE47v43n74p2c3, January 12, 1847: Extract of letter from a member of Capt. Scott's company of volunteers to his father. Written from Fortress Monroe.
RE47v43n74p2c4, January 12, 1847: HONOR TO THE BRAVE
Citizens planning to present a sword to Lieut. Col. Fremont.
RE47v43n74p2c4, January 12, 1847: DR. C.J.F. Bohannan, of Richmond, appointed by President as Surgeon of the first regiment of VA volunteers.
RE47v43n74p2c6, January 12, 1847: THE CAPITULATION OF MONTEREY
Narrative of the siege and capture of Monterey printed in the Portsmouth
Tribune, written by an editor of that paper who commands a company
of the Ohio Volunteers
RE47v43n74p4c1, January 12, 1847: ARRIVAL OF THE VIRGINIA AND EMPRESARIO.
From the N.O. Picayune, Jan 21. Santa Anna within three days
march of Saltillo; letters from Mr. Lumsden will report on events at Tampico.
RE47v43n74p4c1,
January 12, 1847: Editorial Correspondence of the Picayune.
Series of letters signed, F.A.L. Dated, Dec 19, 23, and 25. Concerning troops arriving and leaving, Americanization of Tampico,
and some of the orders by Adjt. Gen. R.P. Hammond.
RE47v43n74p4c2, January 12, 1847: FROM TAMPICO
Letter to Gen. Taylor stating Mexican congress declared they wouldn't consider
peace until the Americans had vacated their territory.
RE47v43n74p4c2, January 12, 1847: For the Enquirer
Refuting that a tariff the Enquirer supported has increased the price of
salt. Signed, Telemachus.
RE47v43n74p4c2, January 12, 1847: FURTHER NEWS FROM NEW MEXICO
Rumored defeat of sixty dragoons by the Navajo Indians.
RE47v43n74p4c3, January 12, 1847: THE GULF SQUADRON AND PENSACOLA DRY DOCK
The gulf squadron needs a dry dock closer than Norfolk. Pensacola
would be a good place.
RE47v43n74p4c3, January 12, 1847: Petersburg makes arrangements for creation of a second company of Petersburg Mexican Volunteers.
RE47v43n74p4c4, January 12, 1847:
No News
Enquirer didn't receive a Union, or Intelligencer,
so can't give a full report of events in Congress, but Messrs, Archer, and
Crittenden came out in favor of the war.
RE47v43n74p4c4, January 12, 1847: Reports of a case concerning an "infant" between the ages of twenty and twenty-one, who enlisted as a volunteer against the wishes of his father.
RE47v43n74p4c4, January 12, 1847: Quote from the Union supported by the Enquirer including suggestions for congress to handle the war.
RE47v43n74p4c4, January 12, 1847: Resolutions by the city council of Richmond, presenting of swords.
RE47v43n75p1c6, January 15, 1847: MORE "AID AND COMFORT"
In the Massachusetts legislature, a resolution to appropriate funds to the
support of the Mass. Volunteers turned into a forum for discussion of
the war. Includes discussion by the Boston Times.
RE47v43n75p1c6, January 15, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Tuesday Jan. 12-Wednesday, Jan. 13. Sen. and House of Delegates,
speakers include Mr. Bocock & Mr. Harvey.
RE47v43n75p1c3, January 15, 1847: CLOTHING FOR THE VOLUNTEERS
A letter signed JNO. F. Hamtramck, THOS. B. RANDOLPH, and J.A. EARLY, asking
for supplies for the volunteers, addressed to WM. Smith, Gov. of Virginia. And a letter signed W.M Smith addressed to the General Assembly of VA,
asking for more supplies.
RE47v43n75p1c4, January 15, 1847: INTERESTING FROM CAMPEACHY
Troops to Campeachy to compel Gov. of Merida to succumb to pronouncement
of Campeachy.
RE47v43n75p2c1, January 15, 1847: LATE AND IMPORTANT INTELLIGENCE FROM THE SEAT OF WAR.
From N.O. Times, reports regarding the advance of Santa Anna have
been premature; there was some cause for the rumor. Troop movements. 500 troops have taken quiet possession of Victoria.
RE47v43n75p2c1, January 15, 1847: LATEST FROM MONTEREY
Gen Taylor on the move to Victoria. Santa Anna planning to attack
Saltillo and have the Mexicans of that location rise up simultaneously.
RE47v43n75p2c2, January 15, 1847: Speech of Mr. Bedinger in vindication of the Mexican war.
RE47v43n75p2c4, January 15, 1847: Twenty-Ninth Congress. Sec. Sess. Wednesday, Jan.13.
Senate didn't begin until 1 PM because of the funeral of Judge Pennybacker.
House of Representatives, comments by Mr. Bocock and Mr. Floyd
RE47v43n75p2c4, January 15, 1847: THE NEWS FROM THE ARMY
More on Gen. Worth being deceived. Reports of the advance of Santa
Anna upon Saltillo untrue. Includes comments from the Union.
RE47v43n75p2c5, January 15, 1847: HONORS TO THE DEAD
Citizens of Richmond unite in prayers for the officers reported dead, delivered
to N.O.
RE47v43n75p2c5, January 15, 1847: Gen. Butler's command extends to all the posts from Monterey to Camargo.
RE47v43n75p2c5, January 15, 1847: CAPT. W.B. ARCHER'S COMPANY
Presented to the Governor
RE47v43n75p2c7, January 15, 1847: N.O. Picayune contains Mexican account of transaction at Los Angeles in California.
RE47v43n75p4c1, January 15, 1847: STILL LATER-HIGHLY IMPORTANT NEWS!
Advances of Santa Anna with a large force upon Saltillo.
RE47v43n75p4c1, January 15, 1847: Correspondence of the N.O. Picayune
Tampico, Dec. 23, Mexican congress decided the war shall not cease.
RE47v43n75p4c1, January 15, 1847: Reports
from the Picayune
Santa Anna should be successful at Saltillo; the plan is for Gen. Gonzales
to attack Tampico.
RE47v43n75p4c1, January 15, 1847: Correspondence of N.O. Delta
Dec. 11, U.S. Army of Invasion, Monterey. Mexicans advancing to Saltillo.
Questioning how the Mexican soldiers stay supplied.
RE47v43n75p4c2, January 15, 1847: Twenty-Ninth Congress, 2nd. Session. Monday, Jan. 11-12.
Bill to raise additional forces. Speech on Tuesday by Mr. Archer.
RE47v43n75p4c4, January 15, 1847: NEWS FROM THE SEAT OF WAR!
Knowing the anxiety of the public in regard to rumors of war at Saltillo,
the Enquirer has attempted to collate the intelligence accounts
in the N.O. papers received yesterday.
RE47v43n75p4c4, January 15, 1847: LATER
FROM MEXICO.
Reports that Mexican congress had decreed to continue the war until the
Americans left were premature. The Congress had not acted.
RE47v43n75p4c5, January 15, 1847: Letter received from the Picayune from the army indicates Santa Anna had left for the capital and not Saltillo.
RE47v43n75p4c5, January 15, 1847: Bill to increase army passed. Officers of the S.C. regiment.
RE47v43n75p4c5, January 15, 1847: Words from the Union on what Congress should do.
RE47v43n76p1c2, January 19, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
House of Delegates Mr. Daniel speaking. Friday Jan. 15. Sat Jan16,
Mr. Bocock and Mr. Patrick.
RE47v43n76p1c4, January 19, 1847: Commentary on Mr. Hunter's election to the Senate.
RE47v43n76p1c4, January 19, 1847: LATER
FROM MEXICO
Congress should cease squabbling and bring the war to a speedy close.
News from the Union, Mexican Congress exasperated.
RE47v43n76p1c4,
January 19, 1847: Congress has received a map of Mexico, Texas,
and parts of United States, including California
Published by S.C. Hayes of Philadelphia.
RE47v43n76p1c4, January 19, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer
The Enquirer should print the applicants for field appointments,
signed Quaester. The Enquirer replied those records are sealed.
RE47v43n76p1c7, January 19, 1847: APPOINTMENTS BY THE PRESIDENT
Filling vacancies created by death, and appointment of more surgeons.
RE47v43n76p1c7, January 19, 1847: Letter to a member of the Senate printed by the Union, from Matamoras,
Jan. 1.
Unsigned. Movements of army.
RE47v43n76p1c7,
January 19, 1847: JAMES A. SEDDON OF VIRGINIA
Praise by the N.O. Jeffersonian on the speech delivered in Congress
on Dec. 10 by Seddon.
RE47v43n76p3c1, January 19, 1847: THE MONTGOMERY VOLUNTEERS
Arrived at Lynchburg, received honors. Lists officers.
RE47v43n76p3c3, January 19, 1847: FROM THE U.S. CALIFORNIA EXPEDITION.
IMPORTANT FROM SOUTH AMERICA. News from Alto California and news of
war between Brazil and Argentine.
RE47v43n76p4c1, January 19, 1847: THE NATIONAL FINANCES.
Excellent article found in the Charleston Evening News. Supports
slight duty on tea and coffee.
RE47v43n76p4c1, January 19, 1847: VOLUNTEER MOVEMENTS IN WESTERN VIRGINIA.
Probably formed too late to be accepted.
RE47v43n76p4c2, January 19, 1847: For the Enquirer.
Congratulations to cadets of Virginia Military Institute for responding
to call for volunteers.
RE47v43n76p4c4, January 19, 1847: Twenty-Ninth Congress. Second Session.
Thursday Jan. 14th, Vice president appeared. Bill for construction
of floating dry docks.
RE47v43n77p1c5, January 22, 1847: A GALLANT VIRGINIAN
Narrative of Lieut. Col. Jno. Garland's actions at the battle of Monterey.
RE47v43n77p1c6, January 22, 1847: John W. Stevenson's remarks at the monument to the memory of Major Barbour
RE47v43n77p2c1, January 22, 1847: A VOICE FROM CASTLE HILL
Article discussing the Whig candidate for congress, Mr. Wm. L. Goggin.
RE47v43n77p2c2, January 22, 1847: Lieut. Col. John Garland also appointed Military Governor of Monterey.
RE47v43n77p2c3, January 22, 1847: INDIAN BATTLE
Battle between Sioux and Omaha Indians, sixty Omaha killed.
RE47v43n77p2c3, January 22, 1847: CAPTAINS IN THE VIRGINIA REGIMENT
Response to articles in the Whig papers unhappy with the distribution
of rank in the army.
RE47v43n77p2c7, January 22, 1847: RUMORS IN WASHINGTON
Gen. Taylor recalled to Washington; Ulua not to be attacked. Ultimatum
of Mexico
RE47v43n77p1c5, January 22, 1847: From
the Houston (Texas) Register, Dec 21
Future base of operations will be Tampico
RE47v43n77p3c3, January 22, 1847: General Orders, No. 2
War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, Jan. 8, 1847. Order to encourage enlistments in the regular army.
RE47v43n77p4c1, January 22, 1847: THE POLICY OF THE SOUTH
Congress should not allow discussion of slavery to enter into wartime decisions.
RE47v43n77p4c2,
January 22, 1847: LOUISIANA
Annual message of Gov. Isaac Johnson, of Louisiana, largely concerns Mexico.
RE47v43n77p4c3,
January 22, 1847: Secretary of War to Adjutant General of Massachusettes
Regiment must be ready for embarkation by 15th of this month.
RE47v43n77p4c3, January 22, 1847: News from the Yucatan, from the N.O. Commercial Times.
RE47v43n77p4c3,
January 22, 1847: MEXICO
Article from the Picayune concerning the administration of Mexico
RE47v43n77p4c2, January 22, 1847: VISIT OF COL. HAMTRAMCK
Petersburg Republican reports on visit by that colonel.
RE47v43n77p4c2, January 22, 1847: Reuben Davis, elected Col. of regiment of Mississippi Volunteers.
RE47v43n77p4c7, January 22, 1847: IMPORTANT IF TRUE
Gen. Taylor will remain at Tampico, and Gen. Scott will go there and assume
command of 7,000 of Taylor's troops.
RE47v43n78p1c1, January 26, 1847: Twenty-Ninth Congress. 2nd Session.
Jan. 21-23. Numerous petitions from Pennsylvania.
RE47v43n78p1c3, January 26, 1847: Every arrival form Mexico goes to prove the Whigs wrong in their predictions.
RE47v43n78p1c3, January 26, 1847: The Legislature of N.C. appropriated $10,000 to the equipment of their regiment of volunteers.
RE47v43n78p1c4, January 26, 1847: Reports of Gen. Taylor being recalled are untrue
RE47v43n78p1c4, January 26, 1847: New
York legislature voted against appropriations for their soldiers.
This is not surprising.
RE47v43n78p2c7, January 26, 1847: For the Enquirer,
Appointment of Capt. Carrington. Signed Amicus. Dated Jan. 25.
RE47v43n78p2c7, January 26, 1847: For the Enquirer, BRIGADIER GENERAL
Writer hopes Maj. Walter Gwynn, will be appointed to command the VA, NC,
and SC, regiments.
RE47v43n78p2c6, January 26, 1847: A confidential letter from Gen. Taylor will be published soon.
RE47v43n78p2c6, January 26, 1847: A SOLDIER'S LIFE
Extract of a letter from a member of Captain Scott's Company, who embarked
for the war.
RE47v43n78p3c1, January 26, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO
From the Baltimore Sun, Santa Anna demands funds from Mexican congress.
RE47v43n78p4c7, January 26, 1847: Reports on mischievous effects of Whig politicians, letter from Cuba.
RE47v43n78p4c7, January 26, 1847: To the editors of the Enquirer, signed A VIRGINIAN
The name of "the Colonel - the 1st Regiment of Virginia Volunteers"
should be shorter.
RE47v43n78p4c1, January 26, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA Jan. 20
Election of U.S. Senator. Mr. Woolfolk offers joint resolution
RE47v43n79p1c3, January 29, 1847: LATER FROM THE ARMY!
Picayune reporting, Gen. Scott at Brazos Santiago intending to meet
Gen. Taylor at Tampico. Includes correspondence from the Picayune
signed Alto.
RE47v43n79p1c1, January 29, 1847: LATER FROM THE ARMY.
Battle soon expected in the vicinity of Saltillo
RE47v43n79p1c2, January 29, 1847: WHIG PARTIZANSHIP
Correspondence from the Richmond Whig against Gen. Taylor
RE47v43n79p1c1, January 29, 1847: FROM
MEXICO
Picayune reporting that the present administration of Mexico will
not be able to withstand their embarrassments.
RE47v43n79p1c2, January 29, 1847: THE
SAILING OF THE VOLUNTEERS
Virginia Volunteers sailed for Mexico on the Mayflower
RE47v43n79p1c3, January 29, 1847: Correspondence from the Picayune
Dispelling rumors that a battle had occurred at Saltillo
RE47v43n79p1c6, January 29, 1847: IMPORTANT
FROM MEXICO
N.O. Commercial Times reports that Mexican congress will not submit.
RE47v43n79p1c7, January 29, 1847: VERA CRUZ, ALVARADO
Mexicans not at all inconvenienced by the blockade at Vera Cruz. From N.O.
Times
RE47v43n79p1c, January 29, 1847: IMPORTANCE OF A DEMONSTRATION BEFORE VERA CRUZ
Incomprehensible leaving Vera Cruz in the possession of the enemy for so
long. From N.O. Times
RE47v43n79p1c5, January 29, 1847: To the Editors of the Charleston Courier, St. Louis Hotel, N.O.
Troop movements in and out of Mexico through N.O. Signed ANON.
RE47v43n79p1c6, January 29, 1847: GEN. TAYLOR'S LETTER
Tomorrow Gen. Taylor's letter will be published. Extract from the
Union regretting the publication in the New York Express
of a private letter.
RE47v43n79p2c1, January 29, 1847: CONGRESSIONAL
U.S. Senate Jan. 25. Mr. Benton speaks.
RE47v43n79p2c3, January 29, 1847: LETTER FROM GEN. TAYLOR
Copied from N.Y. Express, dated Nov. 9 1846. Monterey, Mexico.
RE47v43n79p2c5, January 29, 1847: THE TRUE SPIRIT
Congratulations to the House for refusing to suspend the rules in order
to allow resolutions to be introduced requesting the president withdraws
all troops to the east of the Rio Grande.
RE47v43n79p1c6, January 29, 1847: Comments by Mr. Lewis in the Senate to show operation of the Tariff.
RE47v43n79p1c6, January 29, 1847: Bill to increase pay of army and volunteers passed.
RE47v43n79p1c5,
January 29, 1847: THE "SINEWS OF WAR"
Loan Bill has passed both Houses of Congress; proves that repealing Tariff
a good idea, contrary to Whig belief.
RE47v43n79p4c1, January
29, 1847: VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE
Thursday Jan. 21. Sixth Ballot
RE47v43n79p4c6, January 29, 1847: ARRIVAL OF THE STEAMER HIBERNIA, IMPORTANT FROM EUROPE.
President Polk's message assailed by the whole English press.
February
RE47v43n80p1c1, February 2, 1847: THE ORIGIN OF THE WAR
Special order of the Day to consider the origin of the war. Introduction
to Ridgely article.
RE47v43n80p1c2, February 2, 1847: For the Enquirer, "ORIGIN OF THE
WAR-THE MESSAGE REVISED."
Dated Jan. 6, 1847. Very long article on origin of the war. Signed
Ridgly.
RE47v43n80p1c7, February 2, 1847: TRIBUTE TO FEMALE PATRIOTISM.
Ladies of Richmond intend presenting Mrs. Chase of Tampico, with a beautiful
service of silver.
RE47v43n80p1c7, February 2, 1847: APPOINTMENTS BY THE PRESIDENT
Appointments to Military service, Quartermasters, and Medical Department.
RE47v43n80p2c1, February 2, 1847: PATRIOTISM OF MASSACHUSETTS WHIGGERY.
Massachusetts House of Representatives refused to appropriate funds for
the volunteers of that state.
RE47v43n80p2c2, February 2, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer:
Asking questions of the Whig party in regards to their views on the war.
RE47v43n80p2c1, February 2, 1847: The Remains of Col. Watson.
Also brought back Lieut. Mills.
RE47v43n80p2c6, February 2, 1847: FROM SANTE FE
St. Joseph's Gazette publishes rumor that the Spaniards have poisoned the
flour used by the troops. The St. Louis Reveille places no reliance
in this rumor.
RE47v43n80p2c4, February 2, 1847: VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE Jan. 30th
Motion of Mr. Gresham
RE47v43n80p4c1, February 2, 1847: The Enquirer questions why each Whig General is attacked. Blames Gen. Gaines because he gave the letter for publication.
RE47v43n80p4c2, February 2, 1847: Court case in which a minor enrolled in a company of volunteers without parental permission.
RE47v43n80p4c1, February 2, 1847: From the Union, Petition from the People for additional Taxes to Support the honor of the country. Small tax on tea and coffee.
RE47v43n80p4c2, February 2, 1847: SENTIMENT ON THE TOP of the BLUE
RIDGE
Rockfish Gap, VA.
Supports zealous prosecution of the war
RE47v43n80p4c3, February 2, 1847: TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
Jan 28th SENATE Memorial of D. V. Quenandon
RE47v43n80p4c6, February 2, 1847: NEWS FROM TAMPICO
Enquirer places little reliance in this news. Reported in the N.
Orleans Delta that Gen. Urrea is observing Taylor's operations. Mexican papers speak of other troop movements. Includes correspondence
signed CHAPPARRAL
RE47v43n80p4c5, February 2, 1847: LATER FROM THE ARMY
Mexican and American troop movements in Mexico.
RE47v43n80p1c1, February 2, 1847: Reports in the Norfolk Herald that resolutions for terminating the war were brought forth by Democrats is reported untrue by the Union, both are Whigs.
RE47v43n81p1c1, February 5, 1847: VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE
House of Delegates
RE47v43n81p1c2, February 5, 1847: Twenty-Ninth Congress. 2nd
Session.
Senate, Feb.1-2. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. McClelland.
RE47v43n81p1c6, February 5, 1847: Whigs determined to make an issue between the Administration and Gen. Taylor
RE47v43n81p1c7, February 5, 1847: DEATH OF LIEUT. BOTTS
The enquirer regrets to hear of the death of the son of John Minor Botts.
RE47v43n81p2c1, February 5, 1847: Twenty-Ninth Congress. 2nd
Session.
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Feb. 3rd.
RE47v43n81p2c2, February 5, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Feb 4th.
RE47v43n81p2c5, February 5, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer, THE
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE AND IT'S REVIEWERS.
Though criticism was expected, the Whig response has been extreme.
RE47v43n81p2c4, February 5, 1847: Union says that Gen. Gaines admits the letter of Gen. Taylor's was written to him.
RE47v43n81p4c2, February 5, 1847: The Tarboro Press prints a scathing article upon the gross injustice committed by the Whig Governor of the state in selection of the Field Officers of the N.C. Regimen of volunteers for Mexico.
RE47v43n81p4c2, February 5, 1847: MEXICAN PLAN OF THE WAR
La Patria, the Spanish paper in New Orleans publishes a supposed letter
of Gen. La Vega containing a supposed plan for the war.
RE47v43n81p4c3, February 5, 1847: THE MEXICAN WAR, For the Enquirer,
Is this war justifiable? Rest of article answers its own question in the
affirmative.
RE47v43n81p4c2, February 5, 1847: The Union comments on Sec. Of the Treasury's reply to the resolution of Mr. Cameron
RE47v43n81p4c4, February 5, 1847: MEXICAN PROPOSITION FOR PEACE
Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun from Saltillo, Dec. 21, signed, D.
RE47v43n81p4c4, February 5, 1847: GENERAL TAYLOR FOR THE PRESIDENCY
Washington Fountain reports to have come from both houses of congress.
RE47v43n81p4c1, February 5, 1847: THE PEACE RUMOR
Union reports Mexico concluded to accept offer of Peace, Washington reports
disagree
RE47v43n81p4c1, February 5, 1847: APPOINTMENTS BY THE PRESIDENT
FIRST REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY
RE47v43n81p4c2, February 5, 1847: Capt. W.M. Robinson's company set out for Old Point
RE47v43n81p4c2, February 5, 1847: YUCATAN
Yucatanese have entirely thrown off the Mexican yoke. Report from N.O.
Commercial Times.
RE47v43n81p4c5, February 5, 1847: Matamoras Flag received information that the rear guard of Col. May was cut off, in reconnoitering a pass.
RE47v43n82p1c1, February 9, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA Feb. 5-6th
SENATE, HOUSE OF DELAGATES
RE47v43n82p1c3, February 9, 1847: THE VERMONT RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions passed in Vermont against the war, and against any new slave
state being added.
RE47v43n82p1c4, February 9, 1847: AID AND COMFORT TO THE ENEMY
Article from the Philadelphia ledger on anti-war actions in Boston
RE47v43n82p1c7, February 9, 1847: For the Enquirer, FAULT-FINDERS.
Candidate in Bedford gave a speech virulently against the war, the administration,
and the president.
RE47v43n82p2c1, February 9, 1847: Enquirer apologizes because they have no room to comment upon the Whig's efforts to prove the inconsistency between Democratic professions and principles.
RE47v43n82p2c4, February 9, 1847: HOUSE OF DELEGATES YESTERDAY
Resolution to give thanks to Gen. Taylor
RE47v43n82p2c5, February 9, 1847: To His Excellency, the President
of the United States.
Signed, DEMOCRAT. Asking the president to appoint a Virginian Brigadier
General.
RE47v43n82p4c3, February 9, 1847: THE PROSPECTS OF PEACE
To what terms Mexico should surrender.
RE47v43n82p4c4, February 9, 1847: Massachusetts's legislature has postponed indefinitely a vote of thanks to Gen. Taylor.
RE47v43n82p4c5, February 9, 1847: TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Feb 4-6th
RE47v43n83p1c1, February 12, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Remarks by Mr. Bondurant
RE47v43n83p1c4, February 12, 1847: Enquirer prints from the times the remarks in the House of Delegates of Leake, and Lee, in support of the resolution of thanks to Gen. Taylor.
RE47v43n83p1c5, February 12, 1847: Mysterious course of the Whig party upon the Mexican war. Article from the New York Express.
RE47v43n83p2c1, February 12, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO
Rumored assassination of Santa Anna. La Vega promoted.
RE47v43n83p2c1, February 12, 1847: Correspondence of the New Orleans
Picayune.
U.S. SQUADRON, Anton Lizardo. Jan. 20. Opposition of Santa Anna
to decree of Mexican Congress for the sale of church property.
RE47v43n83p2c2, February 12, 1847: Correspondence of the Delta
AN INTERESTING LETTER FROM MEXICO. US ARMY OF INVASION
Charges against Lieut. S.R. Sturges by Lieut. Col. May.
RE47v43n83p2c4, February 12, 1847: TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session.
Mr. Cass speaks in favor of prosecution of the war.
RE47v43n83p2c5, February 12, 1847: Washington should be presenting an unbroken front, but very much distracted by obstacles
RE47v43n83p2c5, February 12, 1847: THE SCHEME UNVEILED
The opposition intends to abandon all idea of solid indemnity from Mexico,
abandon California.
RE47v43n83p3c1, February 12, 1847: VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE
Feb. 11th. Mr. Wallace speaks.
RE47v43n83p4c1, February 12, 1847: NEWS FROM THE SOUTH
Reports that Santa Anna had been shot by his own troops my be untrue.
RE47v43n83p4c1, February 12, 1847: THE ARMY BILL
Bill to raise ten regiments may be defeated.
RE47v43n83p4c2, February 12, 1847: PEACE WITH MEXICO
Enquirer was much disappointed not receiving further details from inside
city of Mexico. Prints the Bulletin article which puts doubt in
the rumored assassination
RE47v43n83p4c1, February 12, 1847: Gov. Smith will visit Fortress Monroe
RE47v43n83p4c2, February 12, 1847: Correspondence of the Washington
Union
N.Y. Feb 6th. News from the Yucatan that three American
vessels of war took possession of the island of Carmen. Unconfirmed.
RE47v43n83p4c4, February 12, 1847: HIGHLY IMPORTANT! From the
Picayune, Feb 2nd
Letters from Anton Lizardo that report the Mexican congress authorized the
sale of church lands to raise funds.
RE47v43n83p4c3, February 12, 1847: THE VERMONT RESOLUTIONS
To the editors of the Enquirer, signed John S. Gallaher, defending his abstaining
from the vote on the Vermont resolutions
RE47v43n83p4c3, February 12, 1847: REMARKS OF MR. GALLAHER
Responding to the letter by Mr. Gallaher
RE47v43n83p4c4, February 12, 1847: LATE FROM THE RIO GRANDE
Troop movements, and Santa Anna's address.
RE47v43n83p4c5, February 12, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
RE47v43n84p1c1, February 16, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
Feb. 11th. Vice President laid before the senate a communication
from Sam Houston
RE47v43n84p1c3, February 16, 1847: WAR ON THE LIBERTY OF THE PRESS
Editor of the Union expelled from Congress
RE47v43n84p1c4, February 16, 1847: DEMOCRATIC MEETING IN RICHMOND
Report of the democratic meeting, for the war, for the Tariff. Signed
Joel B. Bragg
RE47v43n84p1c5, February 16, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES Feb. 12th
RE47v43n84p2c1, February 16, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Feb.15th, Mr. Floyd from the committee on roads
RE47v43n84p2c4, February 16, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
Resolution to change the hour of meeting to 11 adopted.
RE47v43n84p4c1, February 16, 1847: MEXICAN LETTERS OF MARQUE
News from London includes list of cases in which captures can be made.
RE47v43n84p4c3, February 16, 1847: THE TRUE POLICY
The only way to secure a speedy peace is to push on the war with utmost
vigor
RE47v43n84p4c4, February 16, 1847: Swords presented to officers
RE47v43n84p4c3, February 16, 1847: New York Courier, Whig, against the proposition of Sen. Berrien to publicly declare the war not carried on in conquest.
RE47v43n85p1c1, February 19, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Feb 16th HOUSE OF DELEGATES
RE47v43n85p1c3, February 19, 1847: THE WILMOT PROVISO!
Madmen of the North have numbered the days of the glorious Union
RE47v43n85p1c6, February 19, 1847: PUBLIC MEETING IN RICHMOND
Convened to be against the expulsion of the editor of the Union from the
Senate chamber. Signed John Rutherford
RE47v43n85p2c1, February 19, 1847: TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
Feb. 17th, SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
RE47v43n85p2c4, February 19, 1847: THE RICHMOND WHIG
Response to an article in the Whig against the Richmond Public meeting
RE47v43n85p2c4, February 19, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO
Arrival of Virginia Volunteers at Havana
RE47v43n85p2c5, February 19, 1847: THE WAR WITH MEXICO.
To the Editors of the Enquirer, Reviews the charge against the president
of being the sole cause of the war. Signed, NUECES.
RE47v43n85p2c4, February 19, 1847: New Jersey Legislature voted swords to officers; Resolutions in the Illinois senate to outlaw slavery in any newly acquired territories rejected.
RE47v43n85p2c7, February 19, 1847: ADDITIONAL REVENUE BILL
Tax on Tea and coffee moving through congress.
RE47v43n85p4c1, February 19, 1847: MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Received from the President by the Senate. Covers prosecution of the
war, organization of volunteers, and revenue. Signed James K. Polk
RE47v43n85p4c2, February 19, 1847: THE WILMOT PROVISO
Treachery of Southern and Western Federalizm
RE47v43n85p4c3, February 19, 1847: Correspondence of the New York Express on the condition and treatment of the Volunteers in Mexico
RE47v43n85p4c4, February 19, 1847: PRESENTATION OF THE FLAG TO OUR
VOLUNTEERS
Gov. Smith's speech to the Volunteers during the presentation of the Flag
to Col. Hamtramck
RE47v43n85p4c3, February 19, 1847: GENERAL WALLACE AND THE MEXICAN
WAR
Coverage of an incident in the senate between the Whigs and General Wallace. General Wallace corrected the Whigs by saying it was not, 'Mr. Polk's
War'.
RE47v43n85p4c5, February 19, 1847: For the Enquirer, "FIAT JUSTITIA, RUAT
COELUM!"
Defense of the appointment of the Surgeon to the Virginia Regiment of Volunteers. Signed, VINDEX, Response to the article signed, A JEFFERSONIAN DEMOCRAT
RE47v43n85p4c5, February 19, 1847: Article from the Petersburg Republican
Value of the Volunteers
RE47v43n85p4c6, February 19, 1847: TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session.
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Feb. 15th-16th
RE47v43n86p1c3, February 22, 1847: For the Enquirer. THE WAR
WITH MEXICO
Review of the causes of the existing war with Mexico, signed AMICUS
RE47v43n86p1c5, February 22, 1847: DEMOCRATIC MEETING IN PETERSBURG
Report on the meeting, signed, J.E. COX
RE47v43n86p1c6, February 22, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES, FEB 10th
RE47v43n86p2c1, February 22, 1847: STATE REPUBLICAN CONVENTION!
Resolutions that the war should be prosecuted with utmost vigor.
RE47v43n86p2c2, February 22, 1847: ANOTHER HUMBUG EXPLODED
Contrary to the Whig report that had our army remained at Corpus Cristi;
all hostilities would have been avoided. Cites correspondence from
N.O., one is signed, I.D. MARKS
RE47v43n86p2c2, February 22, 1847: THE SPIRIT OF THE PEOPLE
In every direction people are against stopping vigorous prosecution of the
war.
RE47v43n86p2c3, February 22, 1847: President has commissioned many officers, some are Virginians
RE47v43n86p2c5, February 22, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
Happy that Congress will be reconsidering the tax on tea and Coffee, signed
AMICUS
RE47v43n86p2c6, February 22, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
HOUSE OF DELEGATES, Mr. Boak presents petition. Feb.20th
RE47v43n86p3c1, February 22, 1847: VERY INTERESTING FROM MEXICO LATEST
Includes extracts of a letter reporting ominous conditions in Mexico. Mexican Congress on the verge of another resolution
RE47v43n86p3c1, February 22, 1847: LATER FROM HAVANA AND YUCATAN
Troop movements, newly arrived packet brig brings no local news
RE47v43n86p3c2, February 22, 1847: INTERESTING FROM TAMPICO AND THE
ARMY
Encampments of troops, possible capture of Col. May's rear guard
RE47v43n86p3c2, February 22, 1847: From the N.O. Picayune. SANTA ANNA
Reply of Santa Anna to the Mexican Congress
RE47v43n86p3c3, February 22, 1847: Col. Hamtramck, arrived at Fortress Monroe.
RE47v43n86p4c1, February 22, 1847: Correspondence of the Mobile Herald
and Tribune
Anton Lizardo, Jan. 21. Mexican prisoners arrived there, rumor of the
assassination of Santa Anna.
RE47v43n86p4c2, February 22, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session
Discussions on the size of Texas. SENATE Feb. 18th
RE47v43n86p4c3, February 22, 1847: Proceedings of meetings held throughout the war published in this paper prove the true spirit of Patriotism.
RE47v43n86p4c1, February 22, 1847: TEXAS
From N.O. Times. Many German emigrants arriving in Texas
RE47v43n86p4c1, February 22, 1847: FROM TEXAS
From Charleston Evening News. Large number of Indians, Lepan tribe,
Apaches, taken up quarters within the limits of Texas
RE47v43n86p4c1, February 22, 1847: NAVAL
Yucatan pretends to be neutral
RE47v43n86p4c3, February 22, 1847: COURT OF APPEALS OF VIRGINIA
Appeal of the case in which a minor enlisted without the permission of his
parent.
RE47v43n86p4c4, February 22, 1847: ON BOARD BARQUE MAY FLOWER
Extract of a letter from one of the volunteers of Capt. Archer's company
to his father.
RE47v43n87p1c1, February 22, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS. 2nd
SESSION
Feb.22nd SENATE, Vice President laid before the Senate a letter
from John P. Heiss.
RE47v43n87p1c2, February 22, 1847: VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE
SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES. Feb.23-24th.
RE47v43n87p1c4, February 22, 1847: REPORTED BATTLE
Capture of Chihuahua. The people around Tampico so hostile they will
not sell their beef to the army.
RE47v43n87p1c4, February 22, 1847: Tampico, Feb 6th.
Letter from Chihuahua, quartermaster inspecting wagons left at the post.
RE47v43n87p1c5, February 22, 1847: Appointments by the Gov of Virginia.
List of appointments
RE47v43n87p1c4, February 22, 1847: VERY INTERESTING FROM MEXICO
LOSS OF THE SHIP ONDIAKA.
Four companies of Louisiana volunteers on board all saved.
RE47v43n87p1c3, February 22, 1847: THE CAUSE OF THE WAR
Cause was not the President's nets.
RE47v43n87p1c4, February 22, 1847: APPOINTMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
Highlights of the list
RE47v43n87p2c1, February 22, 1847: LATEST MEXICAN NEWS
From the N.O. Delta, Fighting at Tamascalitos. Letter from Santa Anna
on the Sale of Church lands
RE47v43n87p2c1, February 22, 1847: LATER FROM VERA CRUZ
From the N.O. Picayune, Rumors of assassination of Santa Anna unfounded.
Gen. La Vega commandant general of Vera Cruz, other news from inside Mexico.
RE47v43n87p2c2, February 22, 1847: LATER FROM TAMPICO
From the N.O. Delta, Capt. Miller surround by a Mexican force from Tuspan.
RE47v43n87p2c2, February 22, 1847: IMPORTANT MEXICAN NEWS
Santa Anna still alive, confirmation of the great Battle of Chihuahua
RE47v43n87p2c3, February 22, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session.
Feb. 24th SENATE. Remarks on the three million bill
RE47v43n87p2c4, February 22, 1847: REPUBLICAN STATE CONVENTION!
Republican party news, resolutions in support of the war.
RE47v43n87p2c6, February 22, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
Signed, VIRGINIANS
Upset a Pennsylvanian selected to lead the volunteers
RE47v43n87p2c7, February 22, 1847: RE-NOMINATION OF J.W. Jones
Meeting of Republicans of Chesterfield County. Resolutions passed
in support of the war.
RE47v43n87p3c1, February 22, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
HOUSE OF DELEGATES Feb. 26th. Mr. Robinson's resolution.
RE47v43n87p4c2, February 22, 1847: COLONEL HAMTRAMCK
Completed arrangements for the embarkation of his regiment
RE47v43n87p4c3, February 22, 1847: Extract of a letter from a distinguished
republican,
Dated Richmond, Feb. 18th.
Condemning the Senate for expelling the editor of the Union
RE47v43n87p4c3, February 22, 1847: Enquirer is confident the Wilmot proviso will be defeated.
RE47v43n87p4c4, February 22, 1847: From the Warrenton Flag of '98
Condemning the Senate for expelling the editor of the Union
RE47v43n87p4c7, February 22, 1847: PUBLIC MEETING
Resolutions against expulsion of the editor of the union from the senate,
resolutions supporting the war.
RE47v43n87p4c7, February 22, 1847: TREATMENT OF PRIVATEERS
British House of Commons, Mexican letters of marque
RE47v43n88p1c1, March 2, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Congress
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Feb. 25-27th
RE47v43n88p1c3, March 2, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Message received from the House by Mr. Stephenson. Feb. 26th-27th
RE47v43n88p2c1, March 2, 1847: Response to Whig claims of injustice in the war.
RE47v43n88p2c3, March 2, 1847: TO THE EDITORS OF THE ENQUIRER,
J.C.Calhoun's actions have lost him many friends in this part of the country.
RE47v43n88p2c2, March 2, 1847: Enquirer upset over the loss of the proposition to place a tax on tea and coffee
RE47v43n88p2c1, March 2, 1847: Response to comments in yesterday's Whig about the president's appointment of four hundred officers
RE47v43n88p2c2, March 2, 1847: R.T.L. Beale selected for congress, rode on both sides of the Texas question.
RE47v43n88p2c3, March 2, 1847: For the Enquirer,
Against Calhoun, 'the monarch of South Carolina'
RE47v43n88p2c16, March 2, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Resolution allowing claimants of Revolutionary land bounty further times
to present their claims.
RE47v43n88p2c5, March 2, 1847: MARSHALL COUNTRY DEMOCRATIC MEETING
Resolutions passed supporting the war, and Wm. G. Brown
RE47v43n88p2c5, March 2, 1847: Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun
Mexicans a treacherous, cunning people, must have Col. Benton to lead.
RE47v43n88p2c7, March 2, 1847: LATEST FROM TAMPICO
From the N.Orleans Commercial Times. Ondiaka burned, troop movements,
Includes Correspondence.
RE47v43n88p4c1, March 2, 1847: AFFAIRS IN MEXICO
Deplorable condition of Mexican finances
RE47v43n88p4c2, March 2, 1847: Letter in the N.Orleans Commercial Times,
Brazos Santiago, Feb 5.
Cassius M. Clay captured.
RE47v43n88p4c3, March 2, 1847: KING WILLIAM COUNTY
Public Meeting. Prepare for the upcoming battle against Whigs, Signed
WM. P. Braxton
RE47v43n88p4c4, March 2, 1847: NELSON COUNTY
Meeting of Democratic Party, resolutions supporting the war, thanks to Shelton
F. Leake
RE47v43n88p4c5, March 2, 1847: REPUBLICAN MEETING
Lynchburg republicans. Resolutions supporting the war and against the
expulsion of the editor of the union from the senate.
RE47v43n88p4c5, March 2, 1847: NORFOLK CITY
Democratic Republican Party, resolutions passed against any attempt to prevent
southerners from moving into any acquired territory with their property.
RE47v43n88p4c7, March 2, 1847: For the Enquirer,
Against factionalism within the party concerning disagreements over appointing
Generals for the Army. Signed, WALKER'S CREEK
RE47v43n89p1c1, March 5, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd Session
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, March 1st-2nd
RE47v43n89p1c4, March 5, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Motions from Missouri laid on the table
RE47v43n89p1c5, March 5, 1847: Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun
Message from the president laid on the table yesterday, most likely concerns
Gen. Taylor
RE47v43n89p1c7, March 5, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
Enclosed is a letter responding to accusations that Capt Archer deserted,
signed W.P.B, includes Letter signed, S.B.Downing.
RE47v43n89p2c1, March 5, 1847: PROCEEDINGS OF THE DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATIVE
CONVENTION
Resolutions supporting the war and party solidarity.
RE47v43n89p2c3, March 5, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS 2nd
Session.
Evening session march 2, March 3
RE47v43n89p2c4, March 5, 1847: INTERESTING FROM THE SOUTH
Due to the length of the Democratic proceedings, news from the south is
condensed. List of Captured Americans, troop movements, includes
an address by Santa Anna
RE47v43n89p2c5, March 5, 1847: Extract of a letter from officer of the navy from Vera Cruz to Tampico
RE47v43n89p2c5, March 5, 1847: For the Enquirer,
Criticism of John Calhoun's speech given in the Senate, signed, ALPHA
RE47v43n89p2c7, March 5, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Right of Way railroad discussion. March 3rd-4th
RE47v43n89p4c1, March 5, 1847: LATEST FROM SANTA FE
Trouble with Indians, cold.
RE47v43n89p4c1, March 5, 1847: Americans may have abandoned Carmen, in the Yucatan
RE47v43n89p4c2, March 5, 1847: Whig convention at Harrisonburg a failure
RE47v43n89p4c2, March 5, 1847: Description of the island of lobos
RE47v43n89p4c3, March 5, 1847: Gen. Armstrong will be given command of new regiments for Mexico
RE47v43n89p4c3, March 5, 1847: The Last of the Virginia Volunteers
Ship Sophia Walker departed from Hampton Roads on Monday for Point Isabel
RE47v43n89p4c6, March 5, 1847: INTERESTING REPORT
Whigs blame administration for advancing from Corpus Christi; report from
committee on Foreign Affairs proves the president was acting on the advice
of others.
RE47v43n89p4c5, March 5, 1847: DEMOCRATIC MEETING
Resolutions, including during a war Americans should not discuss the impropriety
of its origins. Signed, Timberlake
RE47v43n89p4c5, March 5, 1847: NAVAL
U.S. ship departs for the Gulf
RE47v43n89p4c5, March 5, 1847: DEPARTURE OF THE STEAMSHIP ORLEANS
Carried stores for the gulf, lately chartered by the government
RE47v43i99p1c1, March 9, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Much discussion on railroad right of way issue
RE47v43i99p1c4, March 9, 1847: Enquirer regrets congress did not create a tax on tea and coffee
RE47v43i99p1c4, March 9, 1847: Metaphysical politicians who contend that a war does not exist, that we are engaged in 'hostilities' only.
RE47v43i99p1c4, March 9, 1847: N.Y. Times article reporting that the Yucatan is again an independent republic
RE47v43i99p1c5, March 9, 1847: SEARCHING REVIEW OF MR. Calhoun's
SPEECH
Reaction to the speech, Signed, AMELIA
RE47v43i99p1c6, March 9, 1847: For the Enquirer, LOOK TO THE SENATE
Fairfax should have a separate delegate. Signed, FAIRFAX
RE47v43i99p1c6, March 9, 1847: INFORMATION FROM THE ARMY
Santa Anna has moved to attack Saltillo
RE47v43i99p1c6, March 9, 1847: FROM THE ARMY
Santa Anna threatens Matamoros and Saltillo.
RE47v43i99p1c7, March 9, 1847: Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun
Government may avoid the three million dollar bill by completion of the
war.
RE47v43i99p1c7, March 9, 1847: List of presidential appointees confirmed by congress
RE47v43i99p2c1, March 9, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM TAMPICO
Santa Anna withdrawn from Vera Cruz, Gen. Orders from Gen. Scott.
RE47v43i99p2c1, March 9, 1847: FROM THE BRASSOS
Gen. Scott left for Tampico; Gen. Worth will depart soon, captured Americans,
RE47v43i99p2c2, March 9, 1847: STILL LATER
Maj. Gen. Butler arrived from the Brazos with sick and injured troops. Vera Cruz must be speedily captured.
RE47v43i99p2c2, March 9, 1847: FROM THE ARMY IN NEW MEXICO
Col. Doniphan to Chihuahua, Trouble with Indians.
RE47v43i99p2c2, March 9, 1847: Gen. Worth promoted to Maj. General
RE47v43i99p2c3, March 9, 1847: Report from the New York Herald article detailing the plan of attack upon Vera Cruz
RE47v43i99p2c7, March 9, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
March 8th, SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES
RE47v43i99p4c1, March 9, 1847: TWENTY NINTH CONGRESS, 2nd
Session
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, March 3rd.
RE47v43i99p4c4, March 9, 1847: DEMOCRATIC MEETING IN POWHATAN
Purpose of reorganization of the party.
RE47v43i100p1c1, March 12, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
March 9th-10th, SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES
RE47v43i100p1c1, March 12, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
ASPEN WALL, CHARLOTTED. Va. Signed, UNUS POPULI. Commentary on
remarks of Mr. Bocock.
RE47v43i100p1c3, March 12, 1847: Lieut. Alfred Crozet, song of Col. Claude Crozet murdered by the enemy two miles outside Camargo.
RE47v43i100p1c6, March 12, 1847: Letters of Correspondence from the N.O. Delta, which give rumors of a battle between Taylor and Santa Anna. Signed, CHAPARRAL
RE47v43i100p1c7, March 12, 1847: Brazos Island, Feb. 13th
Gen. Scott's plan.
RE47v43i100p1c7, March 12, 1847: Brazos Santiago, Texas, Feb. 29th
Regiment of Virginia Volunteers arrived
RE47v43i100p1c7, March 12, 1847: ISLAND OF LOBOS
Includes correspondence of the New Orleans Times, Feb 16th
Three Mexicans arrested as spies.
RE47v43i100p2c1, March 12, 1847: MEXICAN NEWS
From the New Orleans, Delta, March 4. Mexican loss of the Battle of
El Paso.
RE47v43i100p2c1, March 12, 1847: From the N.O. Picayune, FROM TAMPICO,
Letters from Mr. Lumsden, Signed F.A.L.
Rumors that Gen. Taylor is in a very tight place.
RE47v43i100p2c1, March 12, 1847: FROM MEXICO---THE ARMY
From the N.O. Delta, Gen. Taylor in Saltillo, Heat of weather, Signed, CHAPARRAL.
RE47v43i100p2c2, March 12, 1847: THE REPORTED BATTLE AT MONTEREY
N.O. Times. Rumors of battle.
RE47v43i100p2c2, March 12, 1847: GEN. BUTLER OF KENTUCKY
Sword to be presented on behalf of the people of Kentucky to Gen. Butler. N.O. Atlas
RE47v43i100p2c2, March 12, 1847: FROM THE ARMY
From the Washington Union, News from Gen. Wool and Gen. Taylor's camp, movement
of troops.
RE47v43i100p2c3, March 12, 1847: REVENUE STEAMER POLK
Built by Virginians, article on the steamer's creation.
RE47v43i100p2c4, March 12, 1847: Graphic narrative of a brave Virginian
Letter from John Garland, Lieut. Col. Details of Fighting
RE47v43i100p2c5, March 12, 1847: Reports of the death of Lieut. Crozet may be unfounded
RE47v43i100p2c5, March 12, 1847: SURGEON TO THE VIRGINIA VOLUNTEERS
Appointment by the President
RE47v43i100p2c5, March 12, 1847: LIST OF DEATHER AMONG VOLUNTEERS
AT OLD POINT
From diseases not of a local character.
RE47v43i100p2c6, March 12, 1847: BROOKE COUNTY
Resolutions of confidence in President Polk, JOHN MILLER
RE47v43i100p2c6, March 12, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
HOUSE OF DELEGATES, March 11th
RE47v43i100p4c1, March 12, 1847: LATER FROM CAMPEACHY
Loss of the Steamer Tweed, sixty lives lost.
RE47v43i100p4c3, March 12, 1847: Volunteers arrived at the mouth of the Rio Grande
RE47v43i100p4c3, March 12, 1847: Enquirer hails the passage of the
Three million bill.
Includes the three million bill
RE47v43i100p4c6, March 12, 1847: PUBLIC MEETING IN CHESTERFIELD
Resolutions in support of President Polk and the war.
RE47v43i100pc7, March 12, 1847: CAUTION!
Caution to the Democrats, the coming election demands vigilance. Signed,
A SPARTAN
RE47v43i100p4c6, March 12, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
Signed, WASHINGTON. Thousands of applicants for commissions.
RE47v43i100p4c7, March 12, 1847: CAPTURE OF EL PASO
Revolution in Santa Fe by the Mexicans failed because of betrayal by Mexican
women who reported on the leaders to American authorities.
RE47v43i92p1c1, March 16, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES, Mr. Mullen moves that Mr. Cox be added to the
committee.
RE47v43i92p1c6, March 16, 1847: THE RECENT DISCOVERY
Mr. Calhoun has declared he was the author of the annexation of Texas, Includes
Mr. Walker's reply
RE47v43i92p1c6, March 16, 1847: ADDITIONAL MILITARY APPOINTMENTS
Portion of the list of presidential nominations to senate.
RE47v43i92p2c6, March 16, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM MEXICO
New York Sun received news from Havana, distress of the Mexican army.
RE47v43i92p4c1, March 16, 1847: VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE, continued
RE47v43i92p4c4, March 16, 1847: PRIVATE ADVICES FROM MEXICO
Clergy in Mexico whose property is threatened has decided to show influence
on the side of peace.
RE47v43i92p4c7, March 16, 1847: From the Union,
Introduction to two letters b Benton refusing appointment to the army includes
reply from the president.
RE47v43i93p1c1, March 19, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE, HOUSE OF DELEGATES, March 16th-17th Presentation
of Swords
RE47v43i93p1c4, March 19, 1847: POLITICAL DISCUSSIONS
Democrats pleased with Gen. Chapman's account of the stewardship.
RE47v43i93p1c6, March 19, 1847: LATER FROM VERA CRUZ
N.O. Bulletin reports, movements to Vera Cruz, abandoned by Mexicans.
RE47v43i93p2c1, March 19, 1847: ADDRESS OF THE REPUBLICAN CENTRAL
STATE COMMITTEE
Dated March 18th
RE47v43i93p2c6, March 19, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM NEW MEXICO
Mexican insurrections at Taos. Santa Fe had only 500 effective men.
RE47v43i93p2c7, March 19, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE March 17th, HOUSE OF DELEGATES, evening session.
RE47v43i93p4c1, March 19, 1847: LATER FROM TAMPICO
Two thousand troops sailed for Lobos, Gen. Scott in good health.
RE47v43i93p4c1, March 19, 1847: FROM GALVESTON
Indians giving much trouble
RE47v43i93p4c1, March 19, 1847: FROM HAVANA AND MEXICO
No news as to the loss of Tweed. No mention of the loss of Vera Cruz.
RE47v43i93p4c1, March 19, 1847: LATER FROM TAMPICO
Gen. Scott arrived, more troops to Lobos, Correspondence from the Picayune
RE47v43i93p4c1, March 19, 1847: PROCLAMATION OF SANTA ANNA
Success in spite of tremendous obstacles
RE47v43i93p4c2, March 19, 1847: THE TWEED
Those suspected on board the lost, Tweed.
RE47v43i93p4c3, March 19, 1847: NEWS FROM THE SOUTH
Gen. Taylor fatigued from Santa Anna's masterly inactivity. Vera Cruz
believed to be abandoned. Va. Volunteers at the Rio Grande
RE47v43i93p4c4, March 19, 1847: Caleb Cushing expected in Richmond
RE47v43i93p4c7, March 19, 1847: For the Enquirer, to the Voters.
Vacancy will occur in this district. Signed MANY DEMOCRATS
RE47v43i94p1c1, March 23, 1847: FROM THE SEAT OF WAR
From the New Orleans Delta Extra, Battle fought between Taylor and Santa
Anna
From the Matamoros Flag, perilous situation of Gen. Taylor's Army, spy shot
RE47v43i94p1c1, March 23, 1847: IMPORTANT FROM TAMPICO
From the Delta, continued, bombardments of Vera Cruz
RE47v43i94p1c1, March 23, 1847: MOUTH OF THE RIO GRANDE
Correspondence of the Delta
CAMARGO, Gen. Taylor attacked at Aqua Nueva
MONTEREY, troops were sent to assist Gen. Taylor, Signed D. da P.
MONTEREY, battle is daily expected between Gen. Taylor and Santa Anna Signed
H.
MONTEREY, All sorts of reports of a battle at Aqua Nueva, signed, T.
RE47v43i94p1c2, March 23, 1847: STILL LATER
MONTEREY, Gen. Taylor fallen back to Saltillo
RE47v43i94p1c3, March 23, 1847: Union learns no official intelligence of a battle received from the war department.
RE47v43i94p1c4, March 23, 1847: EXCITING NEWS FROM THE ARMY
Summary of news from the Picayune. Estimation of troops on either side,
estimation of strategy.
RE47v43i94p1c5, March 23, 1847: FROM THE BRAZOS STILL LATER
From the Delta, Gen. Taylor falling back towards Monterey, includes correspondence
signed R.S. Gen. Taylor fallen back to Saltillo.
RE47v43i94p2c1, March 23, 1847: CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Letter from Samuel R. Curtis to the Gov. of Louisiana asking for ten thousand
men.
RE47v43i94p2c1, March 23, 1847: FROM TAMPICO
Editorial correspondence of the Picayune,
TAMPICO, arrival of troops, Signed, F.A.L
FROM GALVESTON AND THE RIO GRANDE another company of volunteers formed at
Matamoros
RE47v43i94p2c1, March 23, 1847: Correspondence of the Picayune
CAMARGO, Santa Anna sees Gen. Taylor left weak
FORT HARNEY, absence of authentic information, some very unpleasant rumors
RE47v43i94p2c3, March 23, 1847: Gen. Brooke willing to muster troops
RE47v43i94p2c3, March 23, 1847: NEWS FROM THE SOUTH
Analyses of how safe military posts on the Rio Grande are from enemy attack
RE47v43i94p2c4, March 23, 1847: STRANGE MYSTERY
From the N.O. Commercial Times, Captain Henrie reports he left Gen. Taylor
on the 23rd and there was nothing unusual stirring
RE47v43i94p4c1, March 23, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
SENATE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, March 16th-19th
RE47v43i94p4c4, March 23, 1847: VIRGINIA VOLUNTEERS
Will disembark at the Rio Grande and head for Monterey
RE47v43i94p4c4, March 23, 1847: N.Y. Journal of Commerce presents
interesting facts
Three million bill will obtain a speedy peace.
RE47v43i94p4c5, March 23, 1847: Sorry to hear of unfavorable actions of the House of Delegates, not raising enough volunteers
RE47v43i94p4c7, March 23, 1847: NEW MEXICO FURTHER PARTICULARS
Danger in that country, revolutionaries. Mexican women married to Americans
giving information.
RE47v43i94p4c7, March 23, 1847: LOSS OF THE TWEED
From the N.O. Bulletin, FROM YUCATAN, catastrophe appears to have caused
intense feeling in the Mexicans.
RE47v43i95p1c4, March 26, 1847: No news by southern mail yesterday
From the Delta further intelligence on Col. Curtis request for volunteers,
and Gen. La Vega ready to march with four thousand men.
RE47v43i95p1c5, March 26, 1847: Bill recognizing a state of war between Mexico and United States.
RE47v43i95p2c1, March 26, 1847: LATE FROM TAMPICO, From the Picayune
All troops headed south sailed for Tampico, Gen Taylor fallen back, Correspondence
declaring Taylor has defeated Santa Anna's advance, rumors.
RE47v43i95p2c2, March 26, 1847: LATER FROM MEXICO
Proclamation by Mexican Gen. Valentin Canalizo
Revolutionary attempt in Mexico, Plan for new government.
RE47v43i95p2c2, March 26, 1847: TROOPS FOR MEXICO
Volunteers in Norfolk given word to immediately prepare for Mexico
RE47v43i95p2c3, March 26, 1847: DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR THE SIXTH
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT WALTER D. LEAKE OF GOOCHLAND.
History of Leake, why he is such a good candidate.
RE47v43i95p2c5, March 26, 1847: FROM THE SOUTH
Revolution in the city of Mexico
RE47v43i95p2c5, March 26, 1847: FOR THE ENQUIRER, To the Republicans
of the Fourth Congressional District.
Struggle between republicanism and federalism. Signed SENEX
RE47v43i95p4c1, March 26, 1847: From the Southern mail new of victory by Gen. Taylor, Senate of Louisiana will be raising troops.
RE47v43i95p4c1, March 26, 1847: THE MEXICAN WAR
Response to Whig press reaction to war.
RE47v43i95p4c3, March 26, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
Excitement in New Orleans waiting to hear news.
RE47v43i95p4c4, March 26, 1847: Extract of a letter received by
a Charleston resident from a member of the Palmetto Regiment, from the
Isle of Lobos.
Will soon meet the troops under Gen. Scott.
RE47v43i95p4c4, March 26, 1847: GENERAL WORTH
BRAZOS, bound for Lobos
RE47v43i95p4c6, March 26, 1847: THE LATEST OFFICIAL ACCOUNTS FROM
THE ARMY
Taylor's Headquarters changed to Aqua Nueva, dated Feb. 7th
Gen. Wool arrival, dated Feb. 14th
RE47v43i95p4c4, March 26, 1847: LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
HOUSE OF DELEGATES, March 22nd establishing free schools.
RE47v43i96p1c2, March 30, 1847: DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR THE SIXTH
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, WALTER D. LEAKE OF GOOCHLAND
Fixing the responsibility, views on the troops
RE47v43i96p1c2, March 30, 1847: Nothing from the army by Saturday's
Southern mail.
Indian troubles in California.
RE47v43i96p1c6, March 30, 1847: IMPORTANT NEWS!!
Following includes all the reports by the southern mail, many conflicting
views; we cannot believe the large amounts killed on both sides.
RE47v43i96p1c6, March 30, 1847: VICTORY!-VICTORY!-VICTORY!
GOOD NEWS FROM GEN. TAYLOR.
Gen. Taylor has Whipped Santa Anna
RE47v43i96p1c7, March 30, 1847: From the Delta
Mouth of the Rio Grande, 4,000 Mexicans dead, Santa Anna driven back. Signed, S.
RE47v43i96p1c7, March 30, 1847: From the Picayune
Untold number of rumors circulating impossible to tell what happened.
RE47v43i96p1c7, March 30, 1847: New Orleans Atlas
FROM MEXICO, Gen. Taylor and Santa Anna have fought either three battles
or one battle of three days.
RE47v43i96p1c7, March 30, 1847: INTELLIGENCE FROM THE SECOND OHIO
REGIMENT
Battle will be fought at Aqua Nueva, dated Feb. 24th
RE47v43i96p2c1, March 30, 1847: THE TENTH LEGION
Quote from the Rockingham Register, war is not at all unjust.
RE47v43i96p2c2, March 30, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer,
View of the events in the field and at home concerning the war in Mexico,
signed, DAVEZAC.
RE47v43i96p2c4, March 30, 1847: For the Enquirer,
A Net Spread to Catch Calhoun's Birds. To Willoughby Newton. Accuses him of unfulfilled campaign promises.
RE47v43i96p3c1, March 30, 1847: LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES, PASSED AT THE SECOND SESSION OF CONGRESS.
RE47v43i96p4c1, March 30, 1847: "AID AND COMFORT"
Whig press professes to be shocked at the idea that attacking politicians
and policies inspires Mexico.
RE47v43i96p4c1, March 30, 1847: THE REPORTED BATTLE
N.O. Courier publishes, Tampico, March 5th Gen. Taylor has had
another battle with very small losses to himself, killing 400 Mexicans.
RE47v43i96p4c1, March 30, 1847: From the Republican,
Santa Anna's report to the ministry of war
RE47v43i96p4c1, March 30, 1847: Picayune reports overthrow of Vice President Farias
RE47v43i96p4c3, March 30, 1847: From the Washington Union, March
25 LATEST FROM GEN. TAYLOR'S ARMY. OFFICIAL AND AUTHENTIC.
Received from the war department, from Feb. 21 Aqua Nueva, New arrivals
will relieve Matamoros. Co. Morgan's regiment will concentrate at
Cerralvo.
RE47v43i96p4c3, March 30, 1847: From Gen. Towson.
Gen. Taylor has fallen back to Saltillo and will fight the battle from there.
RE47v43n98p3c1, April 6, 1847
Report of injury to General Taylor
RE47v43n98p3c1, April 6, 1847:THE FALL OF VERA CRUZ AND THE CASTLE
Leiutnent Chaddock heard from General Scott about the fighting at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n98p4c1, April 6, 1847:BATTLE OF BUENA VISTA
Report of the battle of Buena Vista
RE47v43n98p4c1, April 6, 1847:From the New Orelans Delta
Report of actions taken by Santa Anna
RE47v43n98p4c1, April 6, 1847:Monterey, Mexico, March 4, 1847
Extract of a letter dated Saltillo, Mexico, March 1, 1847
RE47v43n98p4c1, April 6, 1847:Late from Gen. Taylor
Lieutant Crittenden arrived with dispatches from General Taylor
Information about General Taylor's position
RE47v43n98p4c2, April 6, 1847:From the City of Mexico
Report from special correspondent at Anion Lizardo about Mexican affairs
RE47v43n98p4c2, April 6,1847:Republican Liberating Army
Letter from Santa Anna to General-in-chief
RE47v43n98p4c2, April 6, 1847: From the N.O. Delat, March 26. Colonel
Yell
Colonel Yell was killed
RE47v43n98p4c2, April 6, 1847:Colonel Curtis adn General Urrea
Story about Gen. Urrea's defeat by Cols. Curtis and Drake
RE47v43n98p4c2, April 6, 1847:Items. From the Matamoras Flag of the 17th
March
Information about attacks on a wagon train
RE47v43n98p4c3, April 6, 1847:North Carolina Regiment
Information about the position of the North Carolina Regiment
RE47v43n98p4c3, April 6, 1847:Virginia Regiment
Information about the position of the Virginia Regiment
RE47v43n98p4c3, April 6, 1847: Massachusetts Regiment
Information about the position of the Massachusetts Regiment
RE47v43n98p4c3, April 6, 1847: Mississippi Regiment
Information about the position of the Mississippi Regiment
RE47v43n98p1c1, April 6, 1847: Letter from the Secretary of Tresaury
Letter about tariff imposition in Mexico
RE47v43n98p1c2, April 6, 1847: Official Despatches. From our Squadron
off Vera Cruz
Information about positions of troops and supplies
RE47v43n98p1c3, April 6, 1847: Offical Despatches. Squadron in the Gulf
Report of naval forces and guns in posession
RE47v43n98p1c3, April 6, 1847: Assistant Adjutant General's Office
List of those killed and wounded at Buena Vista
RE47v43n98p1c4, April 6, 1847: Memorandum of Facts transmittedto Washington
from Vera Cruz and recieved last night
Report about the people and military in Oaxaca uprising againstthe governmentof
Senor Arleaga
RE47v43n98p1c5, April 6, 1847: Hard Push
Opinoin about General Taylor
RE47v43n98p1c5, April 6, 1847:The Imbecility and Inefficiency of the
Administration
Accusation about the reporting of Whig papers. Information about the landing
at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n98p1c6, April 6, 1847
Editorial of the Union aboutthe letter of the President adn the report of
the Secretary of Treasury about the military contributions raised in Mexico.
REvXLIIIi98p1c6, April 6, 1847: The Kentucky regiment an Incident at the
Battle of Buena Vista
Report about the battle of Buena Vista
RE47v43n98p1c7, April 6, 1847: Battle of Buena Vista
Information about the battle of Buena Vista
RE47v43n98p1c7, April 6, 1847: Interesting From Mexico
Report about the uprising in Mexico city between the government and insurgents
RE47v43n98p2c1, April 6, 1847: Later from Brazos
Collection of reports about Santa Anna, Matamoras, Buena Vista, Women and
the Virginia Regiment-information about positions, activities
RE47v43n98p2c1, April 6, 1847: Later from Vera Cruz
Information about position and activities of the troops at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n98p2c2, April 6, 1847: Battle of Buena Vista
Description of General Taylor's provision, battle of 23rd February, information
about troop positions and those killed and wounded
RE47v43n98p2c3, April 6, 1847: Mexico
Report about the uprising in Mexico City and information about the activity
of Gen. Vega' troops
RE47v43n98p2c4, April 6, 1847
Reply to comments made by a Whig newspaper
RE47v43n98p2c5, April 6, 1847: Interesting Rumors
Information about the City of Vera Cruz and Castle of San Juan d'Ulloa,
also a reply to comments made by the Savannah Rep.
RE47v43n98p2c5, April 6, 1847
Information about the uprising in Mexico City
RE47v43n98p2c5, April 6, 1847
Letter from an officer in the Virginia Regiment
RE47v43n98p2c6, April 6, 1847
Extract from a letter from a member of Captain Scott's company of Virginia
Volunteers
RE47v43n98p2c6, April 6, 1847:To the Republicans of Virginia
Rebute about the Texas Question and defense of Polk's actions to move troops
below the Nuecess River
RE47v43n99p1c7, April 9, 1847: Later from Vera Cruz
Information about the seige at Vera Cruz, report about naval movements
RE47v43n99p1c7, April 9, 1847: Another Great Battle in New Mexico
Letter about the defeat of two thousand Mexicans
REvXlIIIi99p4c5, April 9, 1847: Naval Department, April 3d, 1847
Report that directions were sent to naval forces in the Pacific Ocean
RE47v43n99p4c5, April 9, 1847: Naval Department, April 3, 1847
Instructions about commerical activities
RE47v43n99p4c6, April 9, 1847: From our Army at Vera Cruz
Despatches recieved at the War Department
RE47v43n99p4c6, April 9, 1847: Headquarters of the Army
Information about naval activities
RE47v43n99p4c6, April 9,1847: Headquarters of the U.S. Army
Report of General Scott reciving a letter from the Consul of Spain residing
Vera Cruz
RE47v43n99p4c7, April 9, 1847: U.S. Steamer Polk
Return of the Stearm Polk becuase of the discovery of a small leak-was headed
for Mexico
RE47v43n99p4c4, April 9, 1847: Col. May
Report of a battle involving Col. May
RE47v43n100p2c1, April 13, 1874: Official Despatches
Information about troop movement
RE47v43n100p2c1, April 13, 1847:From Our Army at Vera Cruz
Report of activities at Vera Cruz-communication coming from the Governor
of Vera Cruz
Information about hostitle activities at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c2, April 13, 1847: Headquarters of the Army of the U.S.
Report about the battle at Vera Cruz from Winfield Scott
RE47v43n100p2c2, April 13, 1847: Translation
Reponse to Winfield Scott by Juan Morales
RE47v43n100p2c2, April 13, 1847: Artillery Headquarters
Report about the battle at Vera Cruz from James Bankhead
REvXLIIII100p2c2, April 13, 1847: Aritllery Headquarters
Report about the battle of Vera Cruz from James Bankhead
RE47v43n100p2c2, April 13, 1847: Translation
Report about the battle of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: Headquarters of the U.S. Army
Update about the battle of Vera Cruz by Winfield Scott
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: United States Steamer Mississippi
Report about naval activities at Vera Cruz-cutting off of communications
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: Headquarters of the Army
Update about the battle of Vera Cruz-American flag over the castle of San
Juan de Ulloa
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: Proposition for the appointment of Commissioners
Request by Consuls of England, France, Spain and Prussia to let the innocent
families leave Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: Credentials of Commissioners on the
part of the U. States
Plans for US commissioners to met with Vera Cruz comissioners to work out
the surender of the city
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: Gen. Landero's leeter notifying appointment
of Mexican Commisioners
Jose Juan de Landero names commissioners for the delegation to met with
US commissioners
RE47v43n100p2c3, April 13, 1847: Headquarters of the Army
Instructions for the surrender of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c4, April 13, 1847: Six propositions from the Mexican Commissioners
to the General-in-chief
List of demands from the Mexicans regarding the surrender of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c4, April 13, 1847: Headquarters of the Army
More demands from Scott to the Mexicans and encouraging the commissioners
to met again to work out the surrender of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c4, April 13, 1847: Articles of capitulation fo the city
of Vera Cruz and the castle of San Juan d'Ulloa
Terms of the surrender of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c5, April 13, 1847: From our Navy before Vera Cruz
Annoucing the arrival of US Steamer Mississippi at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c5, April 13, 1847: Flag ship Mississippi
Information about the naval activities outside of Vera Cruz
REvxLIIIi100p2c5, April 13, 1847: List of Killed and wounded of the detachment
at the naval batteries on the 24th and 25th
list of killed and wounded in the naval batteries outside Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c5, April 13, 1847: United States ship Potomac
INformation about a naval battle involving the stateship Potomac
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: List of officers of the deatchment
List of officers in the detachment with J.H. Aulick of the stateship Potomac
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: list of killed
List of those killed in the battle involving the stateship Potomac
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: list of wounded
List of those wounded in the battle involving the stateship Potomac
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: United States Steamer Mississippi
Report from the Steamer Mississippi about the battle of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: list of officers engaged at the naval
battery on the 25th March
List of offices engaged in the naval battery on the 25th of March
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: US Steamer Mississippi
Report of the loss of Steamer Hunter
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: United States Steamer Mississippi
Report about the ship facing a very bad northern
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: U.S. Flag Ship Mississippi
Report that Vera Cruz and the Castle of San Juan de Ulloa have been gained
by the US
RE47v43n100p2c6, April 13, 1847: Within the Castle of San Juan de Ulloa
REport from M.C. Perry from inside the San Juan de Ulloa castle
REvXlIIIi98p4c4, April 16,1847:
Rebute to comments made about Mr. Sheddon's belief regarding the war with
Mexico
Comments about Whig candidate Mr. Bott regarding his position on the war
with Mexico
Comments about the Whigs and their belief dealing with the war
RE47v43n98p4c4, April 16, 1847: News from the Army
Details about the battle at Buena Vista taken from the New Orleans papers
RE47v43n98p4c5, April 16, 1847
N.O. published a list of those from Kentucky who died in the war
RE47v43n98p4c5, April 16, 1847: The storming of Vera Cruz
Correspondent from the N.O. writing about the landing at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n98p4c5, April 16, 1847: Important if True! Latest from Mexico
Extract from a letter about Santa Anna recommending to sue for peace
RE47v43n98p4c6, April 16, 1847:Very Interesting from Both Armies
Dispatches from General Taylor, list of dead and wounded, position of US
forces and Santa Anna
RE47v43n98p4c6, April 16, 1847: From the Union Important Documents
From the President-said that because Mexico would not negotiate they should
have to pay for the war
RE47v43n98p4c6, April 16, 1847: From Gen. Taylor's Camp
Report from Taylor about the movement of his troops
RE47v43n98p4c7, April 16, 1847: Translation-Summions of Santa Anna to
General Taylor
Santa Anna asks Taylor to surrender
RE47v43n98p4c7, April 16, 1847: Headquarter Army of Occupation
Taylor rejects Santa Anna's offer to surrender
RE47v43n98p4c7, April 16, 1847: Headquarters Army of Occupation
Report of Taylor's troops at Agua Nueva-still holding position, exchange
of prisioner agreement between Taylor and Santa Anna, list of
number of those killed and wounded on the US side.
RE47v43n98p4c7, April 16, 1847: Headquarters Army of Occupation
Update from Taylor that his troops still occupy thier position at Agua Nueva
RE47v43n100p1c7, April 13, 1847: Capture of Vera Cruz
Report ofthe capture of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p1c7, April 13, 1847: For the Enquirer
Opinion about comments made for the war
RE47v43n105p2c1, April 30,1847: The Federalists and the War
Opinion about the war with Mexico
RE47v43n105p2c1, April30, 1847: The 10 Peans of the Fanatics
Comments about a candidate, Mr. Botts, and his stance on the war with Mexico
RE47v43n105p2c2, April 30,1847
Intelligence information published in the N.O. papers
RE47v43n105p2c4, April 30,1847: Results of the War
Correspondent of the New York Herald lists the results of the war so far
RE47v43n105p2c5, April30, 1847: From the Union the Course of the Federalists
Towards Gen. Taylor and the Mexican War
Comments about an article written in the "Boston Post"
RE47v43n105p2c5, April 30, 1847: From the Boston Post, April 21 The Mexican
War
Report on the Massachusetts Lesgislature and its stanceon the war and Gen. Taylor
RE47v43n105p4c3, April 30, 1847
Comment about an excerpt from a federal sheet about Taylor and Santa Anna
RE47v43n105p4c3, April 30, 1847: Another Presidental Hero
Comments about Gen. Scott and the next presidential election
RE47v43n105p4c3, April 30, 1847
Comments about mistakes made by the Union regarding the war
RE47v43n105p4c4, April 30, 1847: The Causes of the War
Extract rom the Democratic Review about the justification of the war
RE47v43n105p4c5, April 30, 1847: Arrival of More Troops
Ancouncment of the arrival of more US troops headed for Point Isabel and
Monterey
RE47v43n105p4c5, April 30, 1847: Prospects in California
Report about the insurrection in California
RE47v43n105p4c1, April 30, 1847: Later from Vera Cruz
Orders from Gen. Scott for the march-Gen. Twiggs and Gen. Quitman moved
thier commands upon Jalapa
RE47v43n105p4c1, April 30, 1847: Two Days Later from Mexico
Resignation of Vice President Farias
Union of Santa Anna and the Church Party
Affairs at Vera Cruz and movement of troops
RE47v43n105p4c2, April 30, 1847: Progress of General Kearney-Battle of
San Pasqual
Letter from a man with General Kearney describing the encounters of the
General and his men as they moved through California
April 30, 1847 not legible
RE47v43n105p1c6, April 30, 1847
Annoucement of a death in the war
RE47v43n104p3c1, April 27, 1847: Volunteers Wanted
AD requesting volunteers to go and fight in the war
RE47v43n104p3c1, April 27, 1847: Late and Important from Mexico
Annoucement of new of the capitulation at Mexico
Santa Anna's address to his men
Preparations to meet Gen. Scott at the National Bridge
Santa Anna to take command
RE47v43n104p4c5, April 27, 1847: From the New Orleans Tropic'
Comments about the political views of Gen. Jackson regarding the war
RE47v43n104p4c6, April 27, 1847: From Vera Cruz
Report about the actions of Gen. Scott at Vera Cruz
RE47v43n104p4c6, April 27, 1847: From the Capital
Report about the end to the conflict in Mexico City
RE47v43n104p4c6, April 27, 1847: From the Union's Balitmore Correspondent,
April 22 Important from California
Report of the naval activities in California-information on battle
RE47v43n104p4c1, April 27, 1847: Letter from General Taylor
Private letter to General E. G. W. Butler from General Taylor giving information
about troop movement
RE47v43n104p4c2, April 27, 1847: Gen. Taylor-Mexican Banditti
Order from General Taylor referring to a Mexican banditti on the private
adn public property on the route from Camargo to Monterey
REvXLiiii104p4c3, April 27, 1847: Capture of Alvardo-Return of General
Quitman to Vera Cruz
Letter to the Secretary of Navy from commodore Perry about Perry and Scotts'
plans to take Alvarado
RE47v43n104p4c3, April 27, 1847: from the N.O. Tropic
Information about the troops with Taylor and Wool and their positions
RE47v43n104p4c4, April 27, 1847
Comment about the war and aquiring territory and what should happen to that
territory in regards to the slavery question
RE47v43n103p2c5, April 23, 1847: Fruits of the War
Comments about Whig beliefs on the war and an extract from the New Orleans
Picayune which speaks about the future of the acquired land
RE47v43n103p2c6, April 23, 1847:
Extract from the Sun about an illumination in Baltimore created in honor
of the men fighting in Mexico
RE47v43n103p2c6, April 23, 1847: The Late Col. Clay
Letter from General Taylor to Elon H. Clay about the death of his son
RE47v43n103p4c5, April 23, 1847
Comment about why the Philadelphia Spirit did not illuminate thier ofice
on account of General Taylor's victory
RE47v43n103p4c6, April 23, 1847: The Battle of Buena Vista
Comments about a column from the N.O. Bulletin about the war-information
about the conduct of the Indiana and Arkansas
volunteers, information about other regiments as well-Kentucky, Mississippi
RE47v43n103p4c6, April 23, 1847: Battle of Buena Vista
Report on first of the enemy at Buena Vista and a story about the Mississippi
Regiment
RE47v43n103p4c6, April 23, 1847: Correspondece of the N.O. Tropic-the
way General Taylor inspires his soldiers
Report on General Taylors actions during the battle
RE47v43n103p4c6, April 23, 1847: Whipped without Knowing it
Story about the conduct of the Mississippi Regiment during the battle at
Buena Vista
RE47v43n103p4c6, April 23, 1847: Correspondence of the New York Sun
Report about Santa Anna-leaving his men and returning to Mexico City which
is in the middle of a rebellion
RE47v43n104p1c4, April 27, 1847
Extract from the New Orleans Delta about the Whig nomination of General
Taylor for President
RE47v43n104p1c6, April 27, 1847: Later from California
Report that information has been gained from file published at Monterey
and Upper California-mention of insurgence.
RE47v43n104p1c6, April 27, 1847: Correspondence of the Journal of Commerce
Report that war in California is over
RE47v43n104p1c6, April 27, 1847: From the California of Jan 23
Comments on how those in California want to become part of the US, report
on US naval activity
RE47v43n104p1c6, April 27, 1847: From the California of Jan 23
Arrival of the US Ship Independence
RE47v43n104p1c6, April 27, 1847: New from the Seas of War
Report on the conflict near the PUeblo de los Angles between US forces under
the command of Com. Stockton and California forces under
the command of Gen. Flores
RE47v43n104p1c7, April 27, 1847: Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the
territory of California
Letter from Commodore Stockton about the battle that took place on the march
to Pueblo.
RE47v43n104p2c5, April 27, 1847: To Arms! To Arms!
Annoucement that two more companies of volunteers have been called to serve
in Mexico
RE47v43n104p2c6, April 27, 1847: Guns
Report of the number of cannon capture by US forces in Mexico and where
they were taken
RE47v43n104p4c7, April 27, 1847: The Clergy in Favor of Peace
Report from the NY Sun's correspondent that the clergy in Mexico favor peace
and are willing to give up territory to gain it, they wish the
army dissolved and a guarantee that the laws and constitution will remain
in place.
RE47v43n103p4c7, April 23, 1847: From the New York Heral
Report that Trist has left for Mexico with important dispatches
RE47v43n103p4c3, April 23, 1847: Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun
Prospects of Peace, Revenues of the Mexican tarriff, Santa Anna's boundary
change, Col. Price's Victories, National Salute and Illumination
RE47v43n103p4c3, April 23, 1847
Report about Secretary Walker's system of military contributions, comments
about how the loss of the castle will cause people in Mexico
to deisre peace
REvXLIIIIi103p4c3, April 23, 1847: Offical Despatches from our armies
Letters from General Taylor and Col. Price giving details about the achievements
of the army
RE47v43n102p4c1, April 20, 1847: Later from Vera Cruz
Report of the garrisons in Vera Cruz and the Castle of San Juan de Ulloa
leaving
Actions taken by Gen. Scott dealing with the citizens of Vera Cruz
Troop movement from Vera Cruz
RE47v43n102p4c1, April 20, 1847: Late from Mexico
Santa Anna's address to his army, his arrival in Mexico City, his inauguration
and his inauguration address, and policies of his administration
RE47v43n102p4c2, April 20, 1847: Late from Vera Cruz
General Scott's orders upon the capture of the city and also the Tariff
of Duties insituted by General Wool
RE47v43n102p4c4, April 20, 1847: News from Mexico
Extract from the Republicano about the arrival and inauguration of Santa
Anna, reports on the new governments plans for peace, info on the
Mexican army, information on the movement of US troops and extract from
the Picayune from thier correspondent at Vera Cruz-info about
the city, inhabitantes, damage done to it
RE47v43n102p4c5, April 20, 1847: The True Issues Before the People
Comments on how the Federalist leaders are trying to make the Mexican war
a very important topic-all other topics are unimportant
RE47v43n103p1c1, April 23, 1847: Offical Despatches
Detailed report of the Battle of Buena Vista
RE47v43n103p1c4, April 23, 1847: Later from Vera Cruz
Surrender of Alvarado and the taken of the city, interview with Lieutenant
Barton and Brasher
RE47v43n103p1c4, April 23, 1847: Later from Vera Cruz
Report on the movement of naval ships and army, and report on the suspected
movement of Mexican forces
RE47v43n103p1c4, April 23,1847: Editorial Correspondence of the Picayune
Fall of Alvarado, rumors from Mexico about Santa Anna putting down the rebellion
in the city, report on the movement of the army
REvCLIIIi103p1c4, April 23, 1847: Vera Cruz, Mexico
Report from a man who left Mexico City about the fighting taking place within
the city, American deserters within the city, suspected
movement of the Mexican forces
REvCLIIIi103p1c5, April 23, 1847: Vera Cruz,April 6, 1847
Report on movement of American forces and Mexican forces, rumors of attack
on captain Thorton's Company, arrival of a group to perform
in the theater in the city
REvCLIIIi103p1c5, April 23, 1847: Headquarters of the Army, Vera Cruz,
April 3, 1847
General Orders-number19 from General Scott
RE47v43n103p1c5, April 23, 1847: Gen. Houston-The Mexican War
General Houston's address to the people at San Augustine Texas
RE47v43n103p1c6, April 23, 1847
General Tayor's letter printed in the Picayune makes commements about the
battle at Buena Vista and Taylor being named a presidential
candidate
RE47v43n103p1c7, April 23, 1847: Arrival of Troops
Arrival of the steamboat Dominion from Pittsburg, list of those aboard
RE47v43n103p4c1, April 23, 1847
Report on the opinion ofthe Whigs, Federalists etc. think about the war,
results of a Democratic Republican General Committee meeting
dealing with the war
RE47v43n103p2c1, April23, 1847: Offical Despatches From New Mexico
An aacount of the "revolution" that occured in New Mexico
RE47v43n103p2c2, April 23, 1847: Extract of a Letter dated Santa Fe,
New Mexico, Feb17, 1847
Letter about US troop movement and encounters within the New Mexican territory
RE47v43n103p2c3, April 23, 1847: Latest from Saltillo and Monterey
Extract from the N.O. Delta about the battle of Buena Vista, information
on troop movement, confirmation on statements made about men
dying,
RE47v43n102p1c2, April 20, 1847: Tarif in the Mexican Port
Reponse to Whig comments about the President imposing a tariff on conquered
areas on Mexico
RE47v43n102p1c4, April 20, 1847: From the New Orleans Delta, April 9th,
Details of the Actions which occured on the 22 and 23
Report on troop actions and movement on the field of Angostura, also has
information on Mexican troop movement
RE47v43n102p1c7, April 20, 1847: Trade with Mexico
Report on the first vessel to intiate trade in Vera Cruz
RE47v43n102p2c1, April 20, 1847: Latest from Monterey and the Rio Gande
Information brought by passengers on different boats about the events in
Mexico-report of a fight between Gen. Taylor and Gen. urea and Canales proves
false, arrival of the Ohio Volunteers, future plans for Gen. Taylor, excertps
from the Flag of the 3d inst.
RE47v43n102p2c1, April 20, 1847: From Vera Cruz
Annoucement of the arrival of the ship Louisville, a newspaper as been started
at Vera Cruz, comments made by Gen. Scott on behaviors of
the soldiers, orders from Gen. Wool, treatment of the mexicans and mexican
reaction to Americans
RE47v43n102p2c2 April 20, 1847: Correspondenceof the N.O. Picayune
All is quiet at Vera Cruz, arrival of a British steamer, movement of troops
RE47v43n102p2c2, April 20, 1847: Important from Santa Fe
Letter to Robert Clay from John Black about details concerning a massacre
at Taos and the battles that followed and were fought by the US
RE47v43n102p2c3, April 20, 1847: Great Democratic Meeting in the City
of Norfolk
Resolutions passed at the meeting dealing with Gen. Taylor and Scott
RE47v43n102p2c4, April 20, 1847: "Save me from my friends, I will
take care of my enemies"
Comments made by Mr. Botts about Santa Anna, exchange of prisoners, movement
of forces-and opinion on Mr. Botts comments
RE47v43n102p2c5, April 20, 1847
Comments about the opinion of the Whigs regarding the war, including excerpts
from Whig papers
RE47v43n102p2c7, April 20, 1847: For the Enquirer
Urging voters to vote for a candidate that supports the war
RE47v43n102p2c7, April 20, 1847: More Troops to be Raised
Quote from the Washington Union calling for more volunteers to go to Mexico
RE47v43n101p2c3, April 16, 1847
Report on a response by Richard S. Coxe to a spech by "Lone Star" Pendleton
where Pendleton tried to destroy the validity for the war with
Mexico
RE47v43n101p2c4, April 16, 1847: Pro Patria
Editorial defending Polk, the tariff, and the war
RE47v43n101p2c4, April 16, 1847: Extracts showing the conduct of the
Federalists of 1812 &c.
Quotes about going to war with Mexico, speaking out against the government
to go to war
RE47v43n101p2c4, April 16, 1847
Comparing the behavior of the federalists during the war with Great Britain
to the behavior now of the Whig party
RE47v43n101p2c5, April 16, 1847: To Willoughby Newton ESQ., and his Lieutenant
"Themistocles"
Pointing out contridictions between the words of Willoughby Newton and Themistocles
with regards to the war and their actions-words are
different from thier actions
RE47v43n101p2c6, April 16, 1847: Appointments by the President
Annoucnment of promotions/appointments made by the President to Brigadier
General Gideon J.Pillow, Brigadier General John A. Quitman
and Colonel Calbe Cushing
REvXLIII101p2c7, April 16, 1847: For the Whig, Enquirer, Republican and
Complier and all others who it may concern "Mr. Bott on the
Willmont Provision-Important Development."
Expresses questions about the extent of the Willmont Provision in the newly
acquired Mexican territory, speaks of how the South doesn't
want Mexico or any more land, debates slavery issue
RE47v43n101p3c2, April 16, 1847: Important from Mexico
Speaks of the Capitol during the Revolution, fall of Gen. Farias and the
Anti-Church Party, the prospects of restoration with Santa Anna
RE47v43n101p4c1, April 16, 1847: Late from the City of Mexico
State of the Revolution in the city, the fall of Chihuahua, Santa Anna's
progress to the capital, Mexican reports on battles
RE47v43n101p4c1, April 16, 1847
Correspondent from the Picayune writes about the defenders of Vera Cruz
and American forces-gives comments on bravery, skill, etc
RE47v43n101p4c2, April 16, 1847
Reponse to a Whig report about the comments made by Mr. Leak about General
Taylor, and the war
RE47v43n101p4c3, April 16, 1847: The War
Extract from the Picayune about troop movement, who has control of what
land, and other general military operations information
RE47v43n101p4c4, April 16, 1847: Incidents at Vera Cruz
Despatches excluded from yesterday's paper about Vera Cruz, gives the umber
killed, the amount of ammunition used by US forces, actions
of General Scott, praise of the performance of the Orandance, quote from
a Navy officer about the operation at Vera Cruz; account of Col.
Harney's run in with Mexican horses, which had apparentlly been exaggerated.
RE47v43n101p4c5, April 16, 1847: "Growing Beautifully Less"
Letter from Mexico city printed in the Tampico, which speaks of Santa Anna's
arrival, and the anticipation of
RE47v43n101p4c5, April 16, 1847: The Approaching Election-The Mexican
War &c. to the voters of the 6th congressional district
Comments about remarks made by the Whigs regarding the war with Mexico-reasons
why it couldn't have been avoided etc., President Polk, points to the differences
between Mr. Bott and Mr. Leake in their stances on the war
RE47v43n100p4c1, April 13, 1847: Battle of Buena Vista
Letter printed in the Union from Lt. Colonel Mansfield to another officer
in the city. Gives a detailed account of the battle at Buena Vista,
listing some of those killed, troop actions etc.
RE47v43n100p2c7, April 13, 1847: Triumph of American Arms
Reports of despatches that give the news of the surrender of Vera Cruz and
the castle. Extract from the Union about the incident; gives the
opinion that now the Mexicans would sue for peace; speaks against the Whigs
and thier lack of faith in the war
RE47v43n100p3c1, April 13, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer
Opinion about and account of the surrender of Vera Cruz; speaks of "Virginia
boys" with Taylor
RE47v43n100p4c3, April 13, 1847: The Approaching Elections
Call to uphold an administration that supports the war in Mexico
RE47v43n100p4c4, April 13, 1847: Commemoration of the Vict ry
New flag at teh Richomond Fayette Artillery in honor of the victory in Vera
Cruz
RE47v43n100p4c5, April 13, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer
Response to Whig claims that Virginia is against the war and other remarks
said about the war by Whigs
RE47v43n100p4c5, April 13, 1847: Glorious News
Report about the surrender of Vera Cruz and the Castle of San Juan d'Ulloa
RE47v43n100p4c5, April 13, 1847: Capture of Vera Cruz
Details about the surrender of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p4c6, April 13, 1847: From the New Orleans Delta, April 2
From Vera Cruz
Report on the bombardment of Vera Cruz
RE47v43n100p4c6, April 13,1847: later from the Brazos
Letters from Santa Anna about the lose, troop movement
RE47v43n101p1c1, April 16, 1847: Public Meeting in Richmond
Report on resolutions passed by the legislature dealing with the war
RE47v43n101p1c1, April 16, 1847
Opinion about the Whigs stance on nominating Taylor for president when he
is fighting a war that the Whigs do not support
RE47v43n101p1c2, April 16, 1847: Prospects of Peace
Report on the prospects of peace negotiations printed in the N.O. Commercial
Times
RE47v43n101p1c3, April 16, 1847
Report on the future movements of General Scott
RE47v43n101p1c3, April 16, 1847: The Discussion
'Debate between Mr. Botts and Mr. Leake mentioning their stances on the
war
RE47v43n101p2c1, April 16, 1847: The Coming Struggle
Report on the upcoming election and the issues that will play a large role
in the campaigning-war is one of them
RE47v43n99p2c3, April 9, 1847: Texas Sugar
Article about Whig opinion on the annexation of Texas and comments given
in its defense-economic reasons-sugar
RE47v43n99p3c2, April 9, 1847
Confirmation on the massacre at Taos
RE47v43n99p3c2, April 9, 1847: From the Camp
Article about a letter sent from General Taylor to his trops on the battle
field after they won
RE47v43n99p4c1, April9, 1847:
Reponse to a Whig comment, about the President, made in the N.Y. Express
RE47v43n99p4c1, April 9,1847
Report about a dinner held for Col. Cushing who felt due to pressure that
he needed to join his men in Mexico
RE47v43n99p4c1, April 9, 1847
Article from the N. Y. Herlad about the President and his administration-succes
of Taylor, loss of men, desire for peace
RE47v43n99p4c2, April 9, 1847
Letter from the first Company Petersburg Volunteers-sightings of the Mexicans,
building of fortifications, Virginia Regiment leaving for Monterey, excellent
rations, general opinion is that war is almost over
RE47v43n99p1c1, April 9, 1847: Good News from the Northwest
Article about support for the war; Whig non-support for the war; nominations
for democratic candidate-Taylor
RE47v43n99p1c2, April 9, 1847
Resolutions adopted by the people of New Orleans dealing with the war-about
Buena Vista, Taylor, loss of men
RE47v43n99p2c1, April 9, 1847
Report on Taylor's nomination as presidential candidate for the Whigs
RE47v43n99p2c2, April 9, 1847: The Tariff for Mexico
Reponse to Whig opinions and actions taken with regard to the tariff
RE47v43n99p2c5, April 9, 1847: Messrs, Leake adn Goggin at Charlottesville
Point of view of a spectator at the disscussion between Messrs,Leake and
Goggin-speak of victories in the war, debat about claims to the
territory below the Nueces River
RE47v43n99p2c5, April 9, 1847; To the Editors of the Enquirer
Gives views of Mr. Bocock and Irving on the war, territory, and what should
be done
RE47v43n99p2c6, April 9, 1847: Correspondence of the N. Orleans Picayune
Report on the revolution in Mexico City
RE47v43n101p1c5, April 16, 1847
Discussion about arguments used between the candidates who are campaigning
for the upcoming election
RE47v43n101p1c5, April 16, 1847: To the Editors of the Enquirer: The
Discussion
Discussion about a candidate and his view on the war, and Texas
RE47v43n97p1c2, April 2, 1847
Letter extract from Lieutenant Porterfiled of the Virginia Regiment of Volunteers-news
of Gen. Taylor, position of the first Battalion
of Virginia Volunteers
RE47v43n97p1c2, April 2, 1847: The Victory Confirmed
Confirmation of the win at Buena Vista; defeat of Santa Anna; position of
troops during battle
RE47v43n97p1c7, April 2, 1847: Glorious Victory
Win at Buena Vista against the odds; no desptaches have been recieved; defesat
confirmed by documents from Mexico
RE47v43n97p1c3, April 2, 1847: Why no call them Federalists?
Opinions about the Federalists party's stance on the war with Mexico
RE47v43n97p1c4, April 2, 1847: To Walter D. Leake Esq.
Questions concerning Leake's stance on the war and the controversies that
it has caused
RE47v43n97p1c4, April 2, 1847: Why no call them Federalists?
Strong statments about the Whigs stance on the war
RE47v43n97p4c1, April 2, 1847: Victory!!
New of thebattle of Buena Vista; the triumph of American forces; General
Taylor's victory and Santa Anna's defeat; number of loss
on both sides
RE47v43n97p4c1, April 2, 1847: Santa Anna's Offical Despatch
An offical despatch from Santa Anna to the Minister of War, originally printed
in the Sentinel; gives details about losses, the restreat
back to Agua Nueva
RE47v43n97p4c2, April 2, 1847: Correspondence of the New Orelan Times
Information about officers wounded and the movement of officers; Santa Anna's
defeat; length of battle
RE47v43n97p4c2, April 2, 1847: Battle of Buena Vista
More details about the battle of Buena Vista; losses on both sides; details
about the fighting, troop movement and officers
RE47v43n97p4c3, April 2, 1847: Further from Tampico and the Brazos
Information recieved about Mexican forces; newspapers claiming Santa Anna's
glory and positions taken; a letter talking about the defeat
of the Mexican army and the devastating situation among the troops-hungry,
cold etc.
RE47v43n97p4c3, April 2, 1847: Additional particulars
List of those killed and wounded on the American side; Information about
Taylor's position; arrival of Col. Morgan at Monterey; capturing of
US wagons by the Mexicans; escape of a lady
RE47v43n97p4c4, April 2, 1847: From the N.O. Delta, March 22
Account of a doctor escaping Monterey and talking to a correspondent about
the battle; gives details about the battle
RE47v43n97p4c4, April 2, 1847: News from the Seat of War
Information gained from an arriving boat that the US did win the battle;
despatches have not reached port yet; report of many dead
RE47v43n97p4c5, April 2, 1847: The glorious new from the army
Column about the victory; comments about losses, movement of Virginia regiments,
Whig opposition to the war
RE47v43n97p4c5, April 2, 1847
Comments about reports in Whig papers and the triumph of the army
RE47v43n97p4c5, April 2, 1847: The fortunes of war
information about volunteer regiments; many upset that they had been ordered
to Taylor before Buena Vista; volunteers were ready for the
fight
RE47v43n97p4c6, April 2, 1847
Information about a company formed and headed by R.W. Heath; information
about Heath and his military performance
RE47v43n97p4c7, April 2, 1847
Information about regiments to be formed; where they will be sent and how
many
RE47v43n97p3c1, April 2, 1847: Public- No.6
Printing of an act that will raise for a short time additional military
forces
RE47v43n97p2c1, April 2, 1847: Important from Vera Cruz
Information about the successful landing of troops at the city and how US
forces have cut off supplies and water from the Mexicans
RE47v43n97p2c1, April 2, 1847: Lates from Vera Cruz!
Detailed information about the landing at Vera Cruz from a correspondent;
information about boat locations; troop movement-moving to
shore and landing; information about the shooting; information about the
number of Mexican troops present; movment of troops around the
city to suround it
RE47v43n97p2c3, April 2, 1847: From the New Orlean Times March 23
Information about the landing at Sacrificios; reports of Mexican troops;
small fighting between the US and Mexicans; report of Col. Curtis in
chase of Gen. Urrea-retreat of Mexican forces, dissappointment of US forces;
report of ships acting as transport ships for the military
RE47v43n97p2c4, April 2, 1847: Democratic Candidate for the 6th Congressional
District Walter D. Leake
Opinion about the Whig stance on the war, election, blame on the President;
contains excerpts from despatches from the Secretary of war
REvXLIIi97p2c5, April 2, 1847: Interesting from the South
Information on Gen. Urrea-position, US in pursuit, retreat and reopening
of communications on the Rio Grande; information that maybe the
information about Gen. Urrea might not be true; report of the number of
Mexican troops engaged in a battle with US forces at Camargo; info
about the batlle at Buena Vista; information about position of Virginia
regiments; contains excerpts from other papers
RE47v43n97p1c5, April 2, 1847: Eight Days Later from Saltillo
More information about the battle of Buena Vista; arrival of Dr. Turner;
Despatches from Col. Curtis; general orders issued by Santa Anna
RE47v43n97p1c6, April 2, 1847: Further Particulars
Reinforcement of Taylor's troops and status of those men; prediction of
another battle even though SantaAnna has retreated; communication
has been opened between Monterey and Saltillo which will help Taylor
RE47v43n97p1c6, April 2, 1847: Rough and Ready
Information about a past battle fought by Taylor, which afterwards he was
named Major-battle occured in 1812
RE44i1p1c4, May 4, 1847: FROM GEN. SCOTT’S
CAMP
A brief letter from General Scott dated April 8, 1847 discussing possible
advance to Jalapa. Printed in the Baltimore Sun and in the Union.
RE44i1p1c5, May 4, 1847: A LETTER WITHOUT
AN ANSWER
A letter to General Taylor by 22 gentlemen of Philadelphia requesting
his acceptance of a nomination for President.
RE44i1p1c6,
May 4, 1847: APPOINTMENTS IN THE ARMY
From the Times. A list of recent Presidential Military Appointments.
RE44i1p1c7, May 4, 1847: EXTRACTS OF A
LETTER FROM COL. HAMTRAMCK
To the Editors of the Republican from Camargo Mexico, March 29,
1874.
RE44i1p2c1, May 4, 1847: LATEST FROM
SALTILLO AND MONTEREY
From the N.O. Delta of April 24. From the steamship Trumbull
just arrived from Brazos. Nothing further is known about Gen. Taylor’s
future movements. The Flag reports of violence and robbery.
RE44i1p1c4, May 4, 1847: UNTITLED
Lays out the standards for the Whig party’s presidential nominee. One requirement being that he be opposed to the acquisition of Mexican territory
west of the Rio Grande.
RE44i1p1c4, May 4, 1847: UNTITLED
Nothing new from Gen. Scott. Last report on April 11th
contained arguments for the advance to the capital.
RE44i1p1c5, May 4, 1847: INTERESTING
LETTER
A letter dated April 1, 1847 coming from a highly respectable and reliable
source which presents the most intelligent view of affairs inside Mexico. Reprinted from the New Orleans Delta.
RE44i1p4c1,
May 4, 1847: LATER FROM VERA CRUZ
From the Picayune April 23. Covers Intelligence, American
Advances, Santa Anna’s preparations of defence, and the supposed battle fought
on April 15th. Correspondence from Vera Cruz dated April
13 and 14, and from Camp at San Juan dated April 14. Proclamation to
the good people of Mexico from General Scott.
RE44i1p4c2, May 4, 1847: SUMMARY
JUSTICE
Gen. Scott says that Americans will not abuse power that war has given
them. As reported from the Vera Cruz Eagle of April 14th.
RE44i1p4c2, May 4, 1847: OFFICIAL
Washington Union reports that letter have just been received at
the War Department from Gen. Taylor. Most recent bears date of 28 March. From camp near Monterey.
RE44i1p4c3,
May 4, 1847: THE WAR – VOICE OF MASSACHUSETTS
N.Y. Tribune reports that a resolution proposed by Mr. Keyes has
passed the House of Representatives of Massachusetts, condemning the war.
RE44i1p4c3, May 4, 1847: UNTITLED
A letter from a young Virginian in Santa Fe details the bravery of all
Americans.
RE44i2p1c5, May 7, 1847: DESPATCHES
The Washington Union printed recently arrived despatches from Gen. Kearny explaining his first encounter with Mexican troops, his junction with
Commodore Stockton and their joint engagement with the Mexicans on the 8th
and 9th of January, and his arrival in San Diego.
RE44i2p1c7, May 7, 1847: BRILLIANT
EXPLOIT OF COL. JEFFERSON DAVIS
From the Matamoras Flag of March 31. Details the heroics
of the 1st Mississippi Regiment under Davis’ command.
RE44i2p2c1, May 7, 1847: CALIFORNIA
AND GEN. KEARNY’S LETTERS
Kearny’s letters dated Dec. 12 and 13, 1846 from San Diego and Jan. 12
and 14, 1847 from Los Angeles to the War Department. Col. Doniphan’s
Letters from Chihuahua dated March 4 and 20, 1847.
RE44i2p2c4,
May 7, 1847: THE ISTHMUS OF TEHUANTEPEC
Editors make clear their position on building a canal across the Isthmus
that would link that Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. While they have not
officially lobbied Congress for such construction, they have urged the importance
of acquiring the “right of way” to do so.
RE44i2p4c2,
May 7, 1847: FROM THE RIO GRANDE
From the New Orleans Delta, April 27. General Taylor is still
at Walnut Springs and does not intend to leave there for some time. Contains excerpts from the Matamoras Flag or the 18th of
April and the Monterey Pioneer of the 12th.
RE44i2p4c7,
May 7, 1847: HONOR THE BRAVE
Citizens of Richmond honor Gen D.E. Twiggs, while Warren country N.C.
honors Braxton Bragg.
RE44i3p1c1, May 11, 1847: BATTLE OF
CERRO GORDO
From the Picayune May 1. Further details from G.W. Kendall
writing from Plan Del Rio on April 16 and 17th, 1847.
RE44i3p1c4, May 11, 1847: UNTITLED
Reports from the New Orleans Courier which provide an extensive
discussion of the many attempts by the United States to close the war with
Mexico. No matter what the Whigs say, War could not be avoided.
RE44i3p1c5, May 11, 1847: ISTHMUS
OF TEHUANTEPEC
Reports from the N.O. Delta that a topographical survey is to be
made of the area.
RE44i3p1c6, May 11, 1847: OFFICIAL
Inspector General’s report from Vera Cruz dated March 5, 1847. Signed
E.A. Hitchcock. Illegible.
RE44i3p2c1, May 11, 1847: IMPORTANT
MEXICAN INTELLIGENCE
From the Picayune, May 2. Covers Suppression of the Vice
Presidency in Mexico, a new plan of Government, Election of Anaya as president
substitute and his inaugural address, and Santa Anna’s address to congress.
RE44i3p2c3, May 11, 1847: LATER
FROM VERA CRUZ
From the New Orleans Picayune Extra, May 3. Details
concerning the Capture of Tuspan. Correspondence of the Picayune
from Vera Cruz dated April 23, 1847.
RE44i3p2c3, May 11, 1847: THE
ILLUMINATION OF WASHINGTON
From the Washington Union, May 8. The White House was brilliantly
illuminated to commemorate the first anniversary of the battle of Palo Alto.
RE44i3p2c4, May 11, 1847: UNTITLED
Massachusetts refuses to vote thanks to General Taylor and his army.
RE44i3p2c4, May 11, 1847: THE
GREAT WEST
The Washington Union presents its preferred route for a transcontinental
railroad, rejecting the idea of a canal across the isthmus of Tehuantepec.
RE44i3p2c5, May 11, 1847: OFFICIAL
Despatch from General Scott. From Plan del Rio, 50 miles from Vera
Cruz. Dated April 19, 1847.
RE44i3p4c1, May 11, 1847: IMPORTANT INTELLIGENCE!
Another Glorious Victory at the Battle of Cerro Gordo. From
the Picayune Extra, April 30. Santa Anna again defeated in a
pitched battle by General Scott. Six thousand Mexican prisoners taken. 500 casualties. General La Vega once again a prisoner. All Correspondence
by G.W.K.
RE44i3p4c5, May 11, 1847: A
JUST TRIBUTE
Polk Administration should be given the credit it deserves for running
an excellent despite all the opposition.
RE44i3p4c5, May 11, 1847: UNTITLED
Praise for General Scott from the Philadelphia North American.
RE44i3p4c6, May 11, 1847: UNTITLED
Louisiana State Legislature gives thanks to General Taylor and his troops.
RE44i3p4c7, May 11, 1847: UNTITLED
Regret to see names of Virginians on wounded list from Cerro Gordo.
RE44i3p4c7, May 11, 1847: FROM MONTEREY
Reports of inhumane murders which General Taylor resolved to punish.
RE44i4p1c1, May 14, 1847: UNTITLED
The Vera Cruz Eagle looks to the probably necessity of the military
occupation of Mexico in case she should refuse to enter into a negotiation
for peace.
RE44i4p1c3, May 14, 1847: OFFICIAL
Singular brief dispatch received at the Navy Department concerning the
capture of Tuspan. From the Flag Ship Mississippi at sea 20 miles
north of Vera Cruz. Dated April 24, 1847. Signed M.C. Perry.
RE44i4p1c3, May 14, 1847: UNTITLED
The Houston Telegraph contradicts the report that General Lamar
and his corps had been surrounded and cut off by the Mexicans. (Full
Text)
RE44i4p1c3, May 14, 1847: LATEST
FROM CHIHUAHUA
Col. Doniphan reports to General Taylor.
RE44i4p1c3, May 14, 1847: THE CAPTURE OF TLACOTALPAM AND ALVARADO
The trial, Defense, and Reprimand of Lieutenant Charles G. Hunter, before
a Naval Court Martial.
RE44i4p1c5, May 14, 1847: DESCRIPTION OF THE ROAD FROM VERA CRUZ TO MEXICO
From the Washington Union, by Robert Greenhow.
RE44i4p1c7, May 14, 1847: LATE FROM
MEXICO
Summary of papers received from Mexico revealing the state of internal
affairs.
RE44i4p1c7, May 14, 1847: FROM
SANTA FE
Body of Col. Burnshead found in ravine.
RE44i4p2c1, May 14, 1847: LATEST
FROM GENERAL TAYLOR’S ARMY
General Taylor is still at Walnut Springs. He has heard of his nomination
from several people. He appears chagrinned but will not communicate
why.
RE44i4p2c1, May 14, 1847: LATER
FROM GENERAL SCOTT’S ARMY
From the Picayune, May 6. Covers the following: Jalapa
surrendered, Perote in the the possession of U.S. Army, Advance of the Americans
towards Puebla, Movements of Santa Anna, Mexican Version of the Battle of
Cerro Gordo, Guerilla War, State of the Capital, Popular feeling in the country,
British offer if of Mediation, American Prisoners, Majs. Borland and Gaines
and Capt. Clay and their commands.
RE44i4p2c4, May 14, 1847: WHO BROUGHT ABOUT THIS WAR?
General Scott and the Nashville Whig say Mexico.
RE44i4p2c5, May 14, 1847: SANTA
ANNA “MR. POLK’S GENERAL”
Editors admit that Mr. Polk allowed Santa Anna to return to Mexico and
maintain that it was a stroke of genius on his part.
RE44i4p2c5, May 14, 1847: INTERESTING FROM MEXICO
Scott’s proposed movements as described in the N.O. Delta.
RE44i4p2c6, May 14, 1847: THE
MARCH TO MEXICO
Puebla is the only place of possible resistance to General Scott on his
way to Mexico City.
RE44i4p2c6, May 14, 1847: UNTITLED
Reports given to the N.O. Delta say that General Taylor has succeeded
in communicating with General Scott.
RE44i4p2c6, May 14, 1847: UNTITLED
Casualties from Cerro Gordo will be above 400. New Orleans papers
will publish names immediately.
RE44i4p4c1, May 14, 1847: THE BATTLE
OF CERRO GORDO
As told by Captain Hughes of the Topographical Corps in the N.O. Delta. Further Particulars include the American Loss, the Mexican Loss, the
fortitude of the Americans contrasted with the weakness of the Mexicans, Surgical
operations, and Capt. Mason. Dated May 4.
RE44i4p4c6, May 14, 1847: TAYLOR AND HIS GENERALS
A book illustrated with engravings that costs 25 cents.
RE44i4p4c7, May 14, 1847: GENERAL
PILLOW
Praise from the Mobile Register for his efforts at Cerro Gordo.
RE44i5p2c1, May 18, 1847: OFFICIAL
DESPATCHES
From the U.S. Flag Ship Mississippi. April 19-24, 1847.
RE44i5p2c2, May 18, 1847: LATER FROM MEXICO
Prospect of Peace. Peace is likely because destruction is the only
other option.
RE44i5p2c2, May 18, 1847: LATER
FROM MEXICO
Covers: Plan of Campaign, Guerilla War, State of Mexico, Santa Anna,
Important Rumors from the City of Mexico, Probably Cessation of Hostilities,
Return of Volunteers, Military orders, Probably recovery of Gen. Shields,
Arrival of Gen. Pillow, Lieut. Col. Anderson and Co.
RE44i5p4c1, May 18, 1847: FROM
THE CITY OF MEXICO
Includes information regarding: Battle of Buena Vista, Santa Anna’s
oath against peace, Morales and Landero under arrest, Generals appointed to
fortify the towns, Nuns of Santa Clara, Fire in Monterey, Mexican accounts
of American Oppression, revolution in New Mexico, and Tampico.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: MAJORS GAINES AND BORLAND AND CAPT. CLAY
Arrival at Saltillo and the exchange of prisoners. From the Cincinnati
Atlas, May 7.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: UNTITLED
Union refutes claims that Gen. Scott has been ordered to stay at
Jalapa.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: UNTITLED
Union says efforts of the Mexican Diario in Washington are
futile.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: VOLUNTEERS
Recent troop movements.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: NEW
BRIGADE FROM MARYLAND
To be commanded by General Smith.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: ILLUMINATION
OF NEW YORK
From the Pennsylvanian. New York commemorates the battle
of Palo Alto.
RE44i5p4c3, May 18, 1847: ILLINOIS
VOLUNTEERS
Troops to serve in New Mexico.
RE44i5p4c5, May 18, 1847: UNTITLED
Casualties from Cerro Gordo as reported by the Picayune. 44 killed, 263 wounded. One Virginia dead.
RE44i5p4c5, May 18, 1847: UNTITLED
Mr. Bennett of the N.Y. Herald gives an amusing picture of
the moral effect of our wonderful “progress” upon the people of the old world.
RE44i5p4c6, May 18, 1847: HONOR
THE BRAVE
Louisiana legislature honors many involved with war.
RE44i6p1c2, May 21, 1847: THE
PROGRESS OF CIVILIZATION
An editorial questioning the motives of other papers.
RE44i6p1c3, May 21, 1847: UNTITLED
Union says actual reports from Mexico are not as favorable as New
Orleans papers make them out to be.
RE44i6p1c3, May 21, 1847: UNTITLED
Picayune reports on the conditions of imprisoned officers.
RE44i6p1c4, May 21, 1847: SOUND
LOGIC
Boston Atlas reports that Massachusetts did not vote to thank Gen. Taylor because such a vote could be mistaken as an approval of war.
RE44i6p1c4, May 21, 1847: AFFAIRS
IN MEXICO
Mr. Black, former American Consul in the city of Mexico, comments to Picayune
who within Mexico is for war and who is for peace.
RE44i6p1c4, May 21, 1847: DEFENCE OF GENERAL HOUSTON
The Republican questions if one can support Houston, who adamantly
speaks out against all Whigs including Gen. Taylor, and yet praise Taylor
and Scott for their great accomplishments.
RE44i6p2c1, May 21, 1847: OFFICIAL DESPATCHES
Battle of Cerro Gordo.
RE44i6p2c3, May 21, 1847: FROM
GEN. TAYLOR’S ARMY
Excerpts from letters printed in the New Orleans Southerner and the
Matamoras Flag.
RE44i6p2c4, May 21, 1847: WHIG
POLICY FATAL TO PEACE
Whig press and politics impress false impressions on Mexico.
RE44i6p2c5, May 21, 1847: MEXICAN
GRATITUDE
Picayune reports that Mexican General La Vega does not treat American
prisoners with the same respect he received when he was a prisoner.
RE44i6p2c6, May 21, 1847: VOLUNTEERS
FROM SWITZERLAND
800 with serve for up to 10 years and then settle in California.
RE44i6p2c6, May 21, 1847: TRIBUTE
TO THE BRAVE
Loudoun country honors Capt. Stevens T. Mason who lost his leg at Cerro
Gordo.
RE44i6p4c1, May 21, 1847: LATE
AND IMPORTANT FROM VERA CRUZ
From the N.O. Delta, May 11. Includes coverage of: General Scott’s army pushing to capital, Puebla Surrenders, necessity of
reinforcements, and Santa Anna in the Mountains.
RE44i6p4c5, May 21, 1847: JUSTICE TO THE BRAVE
Discussion of the attempts being made to discredit General Pillow.
RE44i6p4c6, May 21, 1847: UNTITLED
Mexicans call upon British to mediate. Peace looks promising.
RE44i6p4c7, May 21, 1847: DESPATCHES
Secretary of War received many dispatches which contained details of Cerro
Gordo. As reported by Washington Union.
RE44i7p1c1, May 25, 1847: OFFICIAL DESPATCHES
Continuation of the dispatches which have been received at the war office,
accompanying Gen. Scott’s last letter about the battle of Cerro Gordo.
RE44i7p1c5, May 25, 1847: LATER
FROM TAMPICO
From the N.O. Times, May 15. Correspondence from Tampico,
where writer has access to letters from Mexico.
RE44i7p1c6, May 25, 1847: THE
LAST ATTACK IN THE REAR
From the Boston Post. War pays no respect to Religion’s ordinances.
RE44i7p1c6, May 25,
1847: UNTITLED
Regarding charges of cowardice brought against the Indiana Regiments at
Buena Vista.
RE44i7p1c7, May 25, 1847: AMERICAN
PRISONERS IN MEXICO
A list of prisoners in Castle of St. Jago furnished by the N.O. Times.
RE44i7p2c6, May 25, 1847: WESTERN
INTELLIGENCE
Colonel Benton’s Speech at St. Louis. Began with the subject of
Oregon and then moved onto Texas.
RE44i7p4c1, May 25, 1847: FURTHER EXTRACTS FROM THE FOREIGN PAPERS RECEIVED BY THE STEAMSHIP BRITANNIA
Foreign papers praise American victories.
RE44i7p4c1, May 25, 1847: UNTITLED
Promotion of Jefferson Davis to brigadier general in place of Pillow.
RE44i7p4c2, May 25, 1847: FROM GENERAL TAYLOR’S ARMY
Correspondence of the N.O. Picayune. Near Monterey. Dated April 25, 1847. signed J.E.D.
RE44i7p4c2, May 25, 1847: GUERILLA WAR ON THE RIO GRANDE
From the Picayune, May 14. Contains report from Frontier
Brigade of Cavlry.
RE44i7p4c4, May 25, 1847: UNTITLED
Memphis Monitor pays tribute to Gen. Dromgoole.
RE44i7p4c5, May 25, 1847: THE BATTLE OF CERRO GORDO
Private letter of Major Wm. Turnbull. From Plan del Rio, April 18.
RE44i7p4c6, May 25, 1847: WHAT GENERAL SCOTT HAS DONE
In 6 weeks Scott has taken 2 cities, 2 castles, and 10,000 arms.
RE44i8p1c1, May 28, 1847: FROM GENERAL TAYLOR’S ARMY
Official dispatches that relate principally to the details of the battle
of Buena Vista.
RE44i8p1c5, May 28, 1847: LATE FROM VERA CRUZ
Steamship Mary Kingsland arrives in New Orleans with seven companies
of Illinois Volunteers.
RE44i8p1c5, May 28, 1847: ILLUMINATION
OF CINCINNATI
Took place on May 20 to honor the glorious achievements of our armies
in Mexico.
RE44i8p1c6, May 28, 1847: GENERAL TAYLOR’S POLITICS
From the N.O. Delta.
RE44i8p1c7, May 28, 1847: THE WAR
Mexico refuses peace despite the fact that entire war has been waged in
the most lenient manner.
RE44i8p1c7, May 28, 1847: GEN. SCOTT’S POSITION
Picayune reports that return of 3,000 volunteers forces Scott to
hold off on marching immediately upon Mexico City.
RE44i8p2c1, May 28, 1847: LATER FROM GEN. SCOTT’S ARMY
Letters from Jalapa and Vera Cruz.
RE44i8p2c2, May 28, 1847: LATER
FROM THE BRAZOS
Summary of the Matamoras Flag from May 8th.
RE44i8p2c3, May 28, 1847: THIRD DRAGOONS
Picayune reports change in orders for half of the 3rd
Regiment of Dragoons. No longer will they be joining Gen. Taylor.
RE44i8p2c5, May 28, 1847: GENERAL TAYLOR AND THE PRESIDENCY
Extracts from a letter Gen. Taylor wrote to a citizen of Louisiana. Published by N.O. Bulletin.
RE44i8p2c5, May 28, 1847: UNTITLED
Matamoras Flag reports Virginia regiments in fine appearance.
RE44i8p4c1, May 28, 1847: LATER FROM GEN. SCOTT’S ARMY
From the Picayune, May 18. Includes coverage regarding: March on Puebla, Arrival of Volunteers, and the return of Gen. Patterson.
RE44i8p4c3, May 28, 1847: ILLINOIS –
FIRST IN THE FIELD AGAIN!
Praise to Illinois from the Union for turning out new regiments.
RE44i8p4c4, May 28, 1847: FROM
MEXICO
Reports on the locations of Generals, both American and Santa Anna.
RE44i8p4c5, May 28, 1847: UNTITLED
A letter in the Picayune from Mr. Kendall regarding Gen. Scott’s
reduction of Gen. Taylor’s armies.
RE44i8p4c5, May 28, 1847: UNTITLED
Death of Lieut. Benjamin G. Waters of Alexandria.
RE47v64i9p2c1 June 1, 1847 From the Brazos
RE47v64i9p2c2 June 1, 1847 From Vera Cruz -Mexican Treachery
RE47v64i9p2c4 June 1, 1847 Prospects of Peace
RE47v64i10p1c5 June 4, 1847 Late From the City of Mexico
RE47v64i10p2c1 June 4, 1847 Important from Mexico
RE47v64i10p2c2 June 4, 1847 Later from the Brazos
RE47v64i10p2c4 June 4, 1847 News from the Army
RE47v64i10p4c1 June 4, 1847 Late from General Scott's Army
RE47v64i10p4c3 June 4, 1847 Captain Tuttwall
RE47v64i11p2c1 June 8, 1847 General Taylor and the battle of Buena Vista
RE47v64i11p4c7 June 8, 1847
From General Taylor's Army
RE47v64i12p1c7 June 11, 1847 Operations of the Gulf Squad
RE47v64i12p1c7 June 11, 1847 The Mexican Pirates
RE47v64i12p2c1 June 11, 1847 Important from Mexico
RE47v64i12p2c6 June 11, 1847 The Mexican tariff
RE47v64i12p2c7 June 11, 1847 From General Taylor's Army
RE47v64i12p3c1 June 11, 1847 To Arms
RE47v64i12p4c1 June 11, 1847 Very Late from the City of Mexico
RE47v64i12p4c2 June 11, 1847 Prospects of a Speedy Peace
RE47v64i12p4c5 June 11, 1847 News from Mexico
RE47v64i13p1c3 June 15, 1847 Spanish Opinions on Mexican War
RE47v64i13p2c1 June 15, 1847 Later from Mexico
RE47v64i13p2c1 June 15, 1847 Later from the Army of General Taylor
RE47v64i13p2c3 June 15, 1847 General Scott's Proclamation
RE47v64i13p4c2 June 15, 1847 Later from Vera Cruz
RE47v64i13p4c3 June 15, 1847 Conditions of Peace
RE47v64i14p1c7 June 18, 1847 Important to Discharged Soldiers
RE47v64i14p2c1 June 18, 1847 From Mexico
RE47v64i14p4c1 June 18, 1847 Prospects of Peace
RE47v64i15p1c2 June 22, 1847 The President and Santa Anna
RE47v64i15p2c1 June 22, 1847 From the Army of General Scott
RE47v64i15p2c1 June 22, 1847 From the Army of General Taylor
RE47v64i15p2c2 June 22, 1847 Important from Mexico City
RE47v64i15p2c2 June 22, 1847 Latest from Vera Cruz
RE47v64i15p2c3 June 22, 1847 Letter from Mexico
RE47v64i15p4c1 June 22, 1847 Important from Mexico
RE47v64i15p4c3 June 22, 1847 The Army in Mexico
RE47v64i16p2c1 June 25 1847 Later from Vera Cruz
RE47v64i16p4c2 June 25 1847 Mexican Items
RE47v64i16p4c3 June 25 1847 British Opinions
RE47v64i17p2c1 June 29 1847 Highly Important from Mexico
RE47v64i17p2c2 June 29 1847 Later from Vera Cruz
January
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p1c2 1304 words
LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Tuesday, Dec. 29th, 1846.
THE VOLUNTEERS
Mr. Stephenson referring to the publication by Capt. E.C. Carrington, Jr., (made in the Times and Compiler of this, Tuesday, morning) said that it exhibited a strange difficulty which had arisen between the Executive and that officer, which he thought ought to receive the attention of the House, and in order to bring the matter before it he offered the following resolution:
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia be requested to furnish this House with a copy of a correspondence between himself, as Adjutant General, and Captain Carrington, in relation to the expenses incurred by said Carrington’s company of volunteers.
Mr. STEPHENSON said, as he understood the difficulty, Capt. Carrington had incurred expenses for clothing his company before it was mustered into the service of the United States, and that the Governor had refused to pay these expenses out of the fund appropriated by the Legislature. He understood that the Governor refused on the ground that the appropriation was for provisions only, and not for clothing. The Governor had taken ground not designed by the Legislature, and throw on Capt. Carrington the burthen of a debt which he ought not to be forced to pay. It was not his design, nor did he believe it to be the design of this House, that nay such responsibility should be thrown on any of the officers of the new regiment. He had coated for the bill, as he believed the House did, with the design that all expenses, whether for provisions or anything else necessary for the volunteers, were to be paid out of the appropriation. It would be hard, indeed, if a young man, who had by his exertions raised a volunteer company, should be compelled to pay for their clothing. For the information of the House, he stated that, in a conversation for the volunteers would not exceed a thousand dollars;--so that the refusal to pay the bill for clothing did not result form a want of funds, but from something else. He offered the resolution to get the correspondence before the House, so as to relieve Capt. Carrington from his embarrassment.
The resolution was then adopted.
Mr. DORMAN, soon after the adoption of Mr. Stephenson’s resolution, arose, and, after referring to it, expressed the opinion that the difficulty referred to by M. Stephenson, could be easily settled by the House. He had no doubt that it was entirely the result of a misconstruction.—He felt satisfied that the Governor had acted conscientiously, according to his construction of the law. But he believed it to be a misconstruction. He felt assured that it was the intention of the Legislature, in making the appropriation, that all legitimate expenses for those things necessary for the comfort and wants of the volunteers were to be paid. But he was convinced this matter could be all settled to the satisfaction of the Governor and Capt. Carrington; and the resolution he would now offer, he believed would have that effect. He would have made it a joint resolution; but the senate was not in session, and would not be possibly until too late to meet the emergency, as the volunteers were probably soon to be ordered on their way to Mexico. He proposed the following resolution:
Resolved, by the House of Delegates, That it be certified to the Governor of this Commonwealth, that this House, in passing the law appropriating ten thousand dollars for the relief of the Virginia regiment of volunteers, intended to embrace all proper expenses incurred by the officers in charge of the several companies; and that a liberal construction out to be given to said law in disbursing the appropriation aforesaid.
Mr. STEPHENSON said the resolution met his concurrence. He was prepared to vote for it, and hoped the House was. If it wee adopted, it would do away with the necessity for the resolution he had introduced.
Mr. BOCOCK was not prepared to vote for the resolution. He had not red the correspondence, and did not know what construction the Governor had placed upon the law. The resolution, Mr. B., said, was a strange one, and presumed to say what the Legislature meant in passing a law. He contended that it was beyond the power of the House of Delegate to construe a law for those who had to execute it. It could neither construe nor change the law. It may be the Governor had construed the law properly; if so, the Legislature could not change his construction, and nothing les than the Legislature could change the law. Mr. B. said the resolution proposed a novel proceeding, and he preferred to await to see the true nature of the difficulty and learn whether it would be more reluctant that he to involve a young mane in a responsibility which did not properly belong to him; but he could not consent to depart form the fundamental principle that it takes both the House of Delegates and the Senate to act in the matter of changing and defining a law.
Mr. Jones of Chesterfield, confessed himself to be in a situation like that of the gentleman from Buckingham, (Mr. Bocock.) He had not seen the correspondence alluded to. He was nevertheless included to believe form what he had heard among the members of the House, that the construction of the law by the Governor was different form that he (Mr. J.) intended in voting for it. Bur he could see no advantage form the adoption of the resolution. What would the Governor do were it sent to him? He might declare that he concurred in the sentiments of the resolution, but adhered to his opinion, that his construction had been the proper one—that it had been just and liberal. He might, too question the right of the House to construe the law for him. Mr. J. though it better not to adopt such a resolution.
Mr. DORMAN said he would cheerfully acquiesce in the scruples of gentlemen, and consent that the resolution be laid on the table, to give time to examine the correspondence, He moved that it be laid on the table.
The motion was agreed to.
Mr. BOCOCK suggested the propriety of obtaining additional information to that called for by Mr. Stephenson’s resolution, (to be added at the end,) which Mr. S. accepted; and, as amended the resolution was adopted:
“Also, with a copy of the claims, which have been preferred for payment under the act of the 9th of December, stating the reasons which have prevented the payment of such as have been rejected.”
On motion
of Mr. NEWMAN—Resolved, That the Auditor of Public Accounts be requested to
report to this House—1st, the annual expense of the Public Guard
from its organization, showing the whole amount expended to the end of the
last fiscal year;--2d, the annual expense incurred in building and keeping
in repair the Armory of Virginia, with the cost of the lot of ground on which
it is situated, so as to exhibit the whole amount to the end of the last
fiscal year;--3d, the annual expense of making and repairing arms at said
Armory, with the whole cost to the end of the last fiscal year;--4th,
the annual amount of money paid out by the State for water rent for the use
of the Armory; and, also, the amount received by the State annually for water
rent, in such way as to exhibit the amount of balance paid out by the State
to the end of the last fiscal year;--and, 5th, the nature of the
existing leases, and the purposes for which any part of the lot on which the
Armory is erected is let out, and to whom.
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p1c3; 346 words
From the Pennsylvanian.
THE MESSAGE.—The last Courrier des Etats Unis, [N.Y.,] (which, to please M. Guizot and his master, never pretermits any opportunity of twitting the administration on account of the Mexican war,) is forced thus to speak of the President’s message:
“Taken together, this state paper is a remarkable production. It cannot be denied that he side of America—to defend which was its great object—has been stated and sustained in it with a rare ability. The rights of the United States against Mexico are taken up in it above, and pleaded, point by point, with a method and logic that might make the reputation of a statesman, and most certainly, that of a perfect man of business. The President reviews minutely all the facts appertaining to the quarrel, from the separation of Texas to the date of the first collision; and all these historical events are so interlinked and so clearly arranged as to cause the United States to emerge form the imbroglio as white and pure as snow.”
Again, alluding to the discussion of the question of the boundary of the Rio Grande, the Editor says: “All this portion of the message is handled with the hand of a master. It will reverse the judgment of the tribunals of Europe, and restore the cause of America before it, as two of the principal Federal journals of New York have frankly admitted—we mean the Courier & Enquirer and the Commercial Advertiser. And this admission, and the sincerity with which it is made, do honor to tier conductors. It is to us a source of pleasure to behold the cause of the country put beyond the scope of political passions and interests.”
The message
is spread at length, in almost excellent French version, before the patrons
of this journal; and no doubt will be copied form it into the columns of
most of the journals published in the same language in Europe, as it will
be no little thing for foreign publishers to have the document ready translated
to their hands.
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p1c5 243 words
THE AUGUSTA VOLUNTEERS.
At a meeting of the Augusta Volunteers, held at their rendezvous in the city of Richmond on the morning of 30th December, 1846, Daniel A. Stofer was appointed Chairman.
The object of the meeting having been explained by the Chairman, in a few pertinent remarks, the following resolutions were offered, a vote taken upon each, and the whole were unanimously adopted:
D.A. STOFER, Ch’n
Geo. W. Allen, Sec’y
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p1c6 198 words
Correspondence of the New York Mirror
Washington, Dec. 26.
A pretty good
anecdote is told of Capt. Walker, so well known for his daring acts in the
present war. When the bill creating the mounted regiment of riflemen
was before Congress, last year, with a probability of its being passed into
a law, regular officers of the army, now in Mexico, gave him letters, recommending
him to the President for the post of Captain of one of the companies. The President nominated him, and he was confirmed without hesitation by the
Senate. A month ago, to-day, he was sworn in by a magistrate of this
city. Before the battle of Monterey, in which he fought with the Rangers,
as Lieutenant Colonel, the regular officers told him he ought to join his
company of rifles, as Captain, and incidentally mentioned that they had given
him letters to the President. He replied that he was under great obligations
to them; but that he had safely stowed the letters away—they were at his
quarters! When he came to Washington, the President informed him that
no secondary influence had induced the appointment. It was made on
the ground of real merit.
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p1c7 199 words
PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS.—The First Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers
departed form Pittsburg on Tuesday last. The scene was witnessed by
immense crowds. The Gazette of that city says: “What added greatly to
the interest of the occasion, was the departure o two Pittsburg companies,
the Blues and Gresy. Ties of relationship, of friendship and acquaintance
bound these two hundred men to thousands of others, and the rude shock of
separation, when the prospects of re-union were so uncertain to all, and when
to many it was an eternal farewell, caused deep feeling and a very general
excitement. Sons parted form fathers and mothers, husbands from wives,
fathers from children, brothers from sisters, and, in some instances, all
these ties were centred in one individual, and had to be sundered. The
scene was also in the highest degree animating, and was well calculated to
increase the military ardor among the youth of our city, already sufficiently
excited on this subject. Cheers upon cheers rent the air, while the
different boats left the wharf, and many a poor fellow put on a cheerful countenance,
and waved his cap, and shouted with the loudest when his heart was full and
his eyes overflowed.”
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p1c6 394 words
We are indebted to a friend for the following letter in compliment to a young Virginian, who recently created such a favorable impression at a meeting held in Faneuil Hall, in aid of the enlistment of volunteers for the Mexican war.—Though evidently never intended for publication, we yet venture to lay it before our readers, because the sentiments which it contains do honor to the writer, who is a son of Judge Woodbury.
“COURT SQUARE, Dec. 18, 1846.
“Dear Sir: You will pardon me for addressing you in this manner for the first time. But when last evening the duties of my position, as presiding officer of the meeting at Faneuil Hall, permitted me to look around, for the purpose of claiming your acquaintance, I was unable to find you on the platform. Permite me then, Sir, in this rather formal manner, to present to you my congratulations on your most happy and eloquent debut as a public speaker, and to assure you that the sentiments of pleasure and pride which your address last evening inspired, were not confined to myself alone, but were cordially felt and frankly acknowledged by the whole assemblage present. For myself, I must say that my satisfaction at your address was more deep perhaps than that of others, from the circumstance, that much the greater portion of my life has been passed in different sections of the southern country, and that the most of my warmest an closest social ties of friendship have been contracted at the South, and with the people of the South. I felt, then, most warmly and sincerely, that your appeal should have been made, regarding that bone of contention between the two sections of our country, in a way so happy, so firm, and so just, and the cordial response of the masses who listened, renewed in me the conviction, that the people of our country are still true to the integrity of the Union, and that the efforts of fanaticism merely affect the scum on the surface, and have not touched the vials of our country. Permit me, Sir, the pleasure of forming your personal acquaintance at your convenience, and if I can be of any service to you, I hope you will feel that you have a friend in your obedient servant,
Charles L. WOODBURY.
“Mr. AYLETT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Law School.”
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p2c1 words: 437
Still harping on my daughter
The Richmond Whig continues its work of defaming the Tenth Legion. Not content with sneering at its sturdy Democracy in time of peaceful political contest, it now endeavors to blacken it’s patriotism in time of war. Again, and again has the Whig alluded in terms of derision to the fact that no company of volunteers ahs been raised in that region; and, yesterday, it expresses regret that the War Department should have declined to call for another battalion, and thus have deprived “the Tenth” from contributing its quota. Why are these reprehensions so continually courted out against the people of that section? Why should their patriotism be impugned and their character ridiculed before the other portions of the State? Is it a reproach to any county not to have raised a company? If so, why does not the Whig speak out in relation to other counties besides those composing the Tenth Legion? We can specify many of the strong holds of Whiggery which have not raised their quotas; but we would not do so in order to reproach them. Where is Loudoun, one of the Whig Gibralters? Where is Wheeling? Where is Lynchburg, which can send such a cloud of Whig votes to the surrounding counties?—Where is the unfaltering Whig county of Rockbridge, the seat for the Military Institute? These and other places, high in the estimation of the Richmond Whig , have not furnished their quotas. But we are not the persons to impugn their patriotism, on that account. We love our whole Commonwealth too well to throw out jests and jeers upon the public spirit of any portion of it.
The truth is, that the volunteer companies thus far raised have all been collected in large towns, and where great thoroughfares pass. Between some counties the means of intercommunication are far greater than between others, and young men are enabled to flock to the standard with far greater facility. It would be doing Richmond city more than justice to say that three companies have been raised form amongst her population; and it would be doing the surrounding counties (so easily reached by railroads and steamboats,) great injustice not to mention that many of the young men enrolled here cam e in from the country.
Our State
has done more than her duty. She has raised more than the regiment called
for. She has done more than the Whig States of Massachusetts and North
Carolina have yet accomplished. We therefore see no reason for any
one section or any one party to be taunting another with negligence or deficiency
in patriotism.
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p3c1 5,615 words
Report of the Secretary of the Navy
NAVY DEPARTMENT, Dec. 5, 1846.
Sir: Since the last annual report, no naval force has been maintained in the Mediterranean. Under the earnest request of the Spanish authorities, the depot at Port Mahon has been broken up, and measures taken to remove the stores and withdraw the officers in charge of them. It is proposed in the coming year to send a suitable force to that station.
After exchanging with the proper officers the ratifications of the treaty between the U. States and China, in December last, Commodore Biddle, with the Columbus and Vincennes, the ships under this command, has visited various important points in the China seas. In the month f May or June, he sailed for Japan, and expected to extend his cruise to Kamschatka.
There is no reason to doubt that he will render the valuable service to be expected form an officer of his experience and judgment, by making our country, its resources, and its friendly disposition towards the people inhabiting these remote regions, more favorably known. He has probably returned to Macao about this time, and in the month of January or February, the Columbus and Vincennes will commence their cruise homeward, by way of the North Pacific.
On the 6th of January last, orders were sent from this department to Commodore Biddle, to proceed with the Columbus to the northwest coast of America, and assume the command of the naval forces of the United States on that station.—No acknowledgement of the order has been received, and there is no reason to doubt that he had left Macao before it reached that place, or that he will promptly obey it on its reaching him.
Commodore Skinner was relieved in the command of the squadron on the coast of Africa in the month of June last, by Commodore Read.—Our naval forces on that station have been actively and successfully employed in the humane duty of suppressing the slave trade. The squadron consists of the frigate United States, 44; sloop Marion, 16; brigs Dolphin and Boxer, 10 each; and storeship Southampton, 6 guns.
The judicious measures adopted have secured to the officers and men an extraordinary degree of health in that inhospitable climate. Its effects are, however, so injurious that the cruises have not been, and ought not to be, so long on that as on other stations. The prizes captured and condemned will contribute some thousands of dollars to the navy pension fund.
On the Brazil station, the squadron under Commodore Rousseau has been reduced by the return of the frigate Raritan, Captain Gregory, and of the sloop Plymouth, Commander Henry, and the detachment of the sloop Saratoga, Commander Shubrick, for the Pacific. The frigate Columbia and brig Bainbridge remain on the station; and although this force is small, it has secured protection to American commerce within the limits of its operations.
The frigate Constitution, Captain Percival, has returned to the United States, having made a voyage around the world. The special duty assigned to Captain Percival has been satisfactorily performed.
In the Pacific ocean the naval forces of the United States, under command of Commodore John D. Sloat, consisted, on the first of July last, of the frigate Savannah, sloops Portsmouth, Levant, Warren and Cyane, schooner Shark, and store-ship Erie.
They have been reinforced by the frigate Congress, the sloops Saratoga, Dale and Preble, and the raze Independence. The sloop Levant is on her return home, and authority has been given to send home the Savannah and Warren, the time for which the crews of these vessels enlisted having expired. Commodore W. Branford Shubrick went out in the Independence to relieve Commodore Sloat, under orders issued in August last.
In confidential instructions dated on the 24th of June, 184, the Secretary of the Navy called Commodore Sloat’s “attention particularly to the present aspect of the relations between this country and Mexico. It is the earnest desire of the President to pursue the policy of peace, and he is anxious that you and every part of your squadron should be assiduously careful to avoid any act of aggression. Should Mexico, however, be resolutely bent on hostilities, you will be mindful to protect the persons and interests of citizens f the United States near your station; and should you ascertain, beyond a doubt, that the Mexican Government has declared war against us, you will at once employ the forces under your command to the best advantage.” “The great distance of your squadron, and the difficulty of communicating with you, is the cause of issuing this order.” The officer who was thus instructed, observed the line of conduct prescribed to him with such intelligence and fidelity, that no complaint has ever been made of any unauthorized aggression on his part.
On the 7th of June, 1846, at Mazatlan, Commodore Sloat received satisfactory information, through Mexico, “that the Mexican troops six or seven thousand strong, had, by order of the Mexican government invaded the territory of the United States north of the Rio Grande, and had attacked the forces under General Taylor, and that the squadron of the United States were blockading the ports of Mexico on the Gulf. He properly considered “these hostilities as justifying his commencing offensive operations on the west coast” and, on the 8th of June, sailed in the frigate Savannah “for the coast of California; to carry out the orders of the department on the 20th of June, 1845. He arrived at Monterey on the 2d of July, and on the 7th demanded a surrender of the place. This was evaded, and an adequate force landed from the squadron, took possession of the town and raised the flag of the United State without opposition or bloodshed. On the 9th, Commander Montgomery, of the sloop Portsmouth, under the Commodore’s orders, with like success, took possession of Francisco, and that part of the country, in the name of the United States. On the 17th, he sent Purser Faunteroy with a detachment as far as the Mission of St. Johns, to hoist the flag of United States, and to recover cannon and munitions which had been buried by the enemy. On his arrival he found that the place had been captured an hour or two previously by Lieut. Colonel Fremont, of the United States army, with whom he returned to Monterey on the 19th.
On the 15th of July, the frigate Congress arrived at Monterey, and Commodore Stockton reported to Commodore Sloat for duty as a part of his squadron. On the 23d he was ordered to the command on shore, and on the 19th, Commodore Sloat found his infirm health so enfeebled by his arduous duties, that he determined to avail himself of a permission which had been given him in his discretion, to assign the command to Commodore Stockton, and sailed for Panama on his return home. After encountering much peril and hardship, this gallant and meritorious officer, arrived at the seat of government early in November last.
On the 25th of July, the Cyane, Captain Mervine, sailed from Monterey, with Lieut. Col. Fremont and a small volunteer force on board, for San Diego, to intercept the retreat of the Mexican Genrela castro. A few days after, Commodore Stockton sailed in the Congress frigate for San Pedro, and with a detachment from his squadron of three hundred and sixty men, marched to the enemy’s camp. It was found that the camp was broken up, and the Mexicans, under Gov. Pico and Gen. Castro, had retreated so precipitately that Lieut. Col. Fremont was disappointed in interpreting him. On the 13th, Com. Stockton was joined by this gallant officer, and marched a distance of thirty miles from the sea, and entered, without opposition, the Cuidad de Los Angelos, the capital of the Californias.
And on the 22d of August, the flag of the United States was flying at every commanding position, and California was in the undisputed military possession of the United States.
The conduct of the officers and men of the squadron in these important operations, has been characterized by activity, courage and shady discipline, and entitles them to the thanks of the department. Efficient aid was rendered by Lieutenant Colonel Fremont and the volunteers under his command. In his hands, Com. Stockton informs the department, he will leave the military government, when he shall leave California in the further execution of his orders.
In the novel situation, in which both the commanders of our naval forces have been played, without instructions to regulate them in the detail of their conduct, they have adopted measures to preserve social order and maintain our authority, and to withhold from the enemy any advantages from the conquered territory which are believed to be warranted by the laws of war.
The conduct of both commanders has been marked by discretion, a spirit of conciliation, and a sacred respect for private rights, while the military movements have been ably conceived and brilliantly executed.
On her outward voyage, the Congress touched at Honolulu, and landed Mr. Ten Eyck, the commissioner of the United States to the Sandwich Islands. It was the good fortune of commodore Stockton to contribute largely to an amicable adjustment of an unhappy misunderstanding between our former agent and the King’s Government, which threatened injury to our commercial interests.
The home squadron on the 13th of May last, consisted of the frigates Cumberland, Raritan, and Potomac; sloops Falmouth, John Adams, and St.Mary’s; steamers Mississippi and Princeton; brigs Somers and Porpoise, and schr. Flirt, under command of Commodore Conner. It has been increased since by the sloops Albany and Boston; steamers Spitfire and Vixen; brigs Perry and Truxton; schrs. Reefer, Petral and Bonito; and storeship Relief.
During the last two years, the menaces of hostilities on the part of Mexico have made it necessary to confine the operation of the squadron principally to the Gulf of Mexico.
On the 29th of March, 1845, the acting Secretary of the Navy, in a confidential dispatch, informed Commodore Conner “that the President of the United States is impressed with a belief that it is a possible contingency that the Government of Mexico may resort to acts of hostility against the United States, and has direct me to order the other vessels of the home squadron under your command to join you at Vera Cruz. The disposition f the President is to maintain the most friendly relations with the Mexican Republic, and to meet any belligerent movement on the part of that Republic in the most decisive manner. You will, therefore, so dispose of the force which now is or may be placed under your command, as will give the most effectual protection to our citizens and commerce. You will be cautious not to violate the rights of others, but to resist and punish any aggression on ours. If a public declaration of war shall be made by Mexico against the United States, you will so conduct your operations as to show to her and to the world that, while ready to do justice and maintain peace, we are prepared to vindicate the national honor, and to visit upon our enemies the utmost severities of the war thus provoked. If, without such an open declaration, hostilities shall be commenced on her part, you will meet and visit them with the utmost promptness and energy;” and on the 16th of August, 1845, it was again impressed upon him by the Secretary of the Navy, “that the policy of this Government is the preservation of peace if possible.”
In the extremely delicate circumstances in which he was placed by the menaced hostility on the part of Mexico, Commodore Conner fully sustained his reputation for sound judgment in the performance of his duty.
On the 3d of May, 1846, he received the intelligence at Vera Cruz, which left no doubt on his mind that orders had been given by the Mexican government to General Arista to attack the American army east of the Del Norte with the forces under his command. On the 4th the Commodore sailed with the principal part of his squadron for the Brazos Santa Iago, and anchored off the bar on the 8th, while the battle of Palo Alto was raging. Although too late to take part in that memorable conflict, the arrival of the squadron was most opportune, and effectual security was given to the depot at Point Isabel, by landing five hundred seamen and marines under Captain Gregory, of the Raritan. A detachment under Captain Aulick, of the Potomac, proceeded up the river to Burita, and aided in establishing a military post at that place.
For these prompt and gallant movements the commodore, his officers, and men, received the thanks of the President, through this department.
On the 13th of May, the Secretary of the Navy informed him, that Congress had declared that a state of war exists between the United States and the republic of Mexico, and ordered him to exercise all the rights that belonged to him as commander-in-chief of a belligerent squadron.—Under these orders, he declared and enforced a blockade of the principal ports in Mexico on the gulf. The enemy had no ships of war which he dared to show on the open sea; and determined on commencing war, precaution had been taken, in advanced of the meditated attack, to place his public vessels in situations where, from natural obstacles, they could not be reached by the ships of our squadron. As soon as authority was given by the appropriations of Congress, measures were taken by the department to purchase for employment in the squadron small vessels of suitable drafts of water to cross the dangerous bars which guard the ports of Mexico. Three schooners and two small steamers were purchased, but the last of these did not report to the squadron from uncontrollable causes, until early in November.
On the 7th August, Commodore Conner appeared ff the bar of Alvarado, with a purpose of attempting the capture of the enemy’s vessels of war in that river. The return of bad weather endangering the small vessels in the open roadstead, and the rapidity of the current from the swollen state of the river, induced him to abandon his design, and to withdraw is force.
On the 15th of October, he made another attempt to enter the Alvarado river for the same purpose. In endeavoring to cross the bar, one of the steamers having in tow the principal division of the attacking force, grounded, and became entangled with the vessels in tow. The current could not be overcome in the state of the wind without the aid of steam, and the Commodore had the mortification of being compelled to retire.
On t 16th of October, Commodore M. C. Perry, with the steamer Mississippi and the small vessels, left the squadron at Lizardo, and sailed for Tabasco. On the 23d he arrived off the bar, and with great judgment and gallantry captured the town of Fronteira, with the enemy’s steamers and vessels in port, and proceeded up the river a distance of seventy-four miles, into the interior of a settled country, and appeared before he city of Tabasco. He captured the vessels in the port; and at the earnest request of the foreign merchants, humanely determined not to involve them to ruin, by destroying the town. In dropping down the river, one of his prizes grounded, and a large body of Mexicans opened a furious fire on her, which was promptly returned with great effect—the stranded vessel was got afloat, and the Mexicans beaten off. But in this treacherous attack, one American seaman was killed, and Lieutenant Charles W. Morris and two seamen were wounded. Lieutenant Morris survived until the 1st of November, when he died of his wound on board the Cumberland. His commanding officers have paid a sad tribute to the worth of this brave young officer, whose untimely death is a severe loss to the service.
The objects of the expedition were fully accomplished, and, by the capture or destruction of every vessel and steamer f the enemy in that important river, a check has been given to a commerce, by which, no doubt, munitions of war were introduced into Mexico from Yucatan.
Much praise is due to Com. Perry, and to the officers and men under his command, for the skill, judgment and courage manifested throughout the expedition.
On the 12th of November, Com. Conner sailed with a large portion of his squadron, and on the 14th the town of Tampico capitulated unconditionally without resistance. Three fine guard boats and other public property fell it to the hands of the captors. The enemy, anticipating an attack had withdrawn the garrison, removed the guns, and destroyed the munitions of war. The success of the enterprise is of great importance, and the enemy has lost one of the most considerable ports on the Gulf. Arrangements have been made to hold it; and the Commodore is instructed to relinquish the command ashore to the officer of the army commanding the garrison, and resume the operations of the squadron. Additions of great value are made to the naval forces in the Gulf, by the Capture of the enemy’s vessels in Tabasco and at Tampico; and the prizes adapted to the navigation of the mouths of rivers along the coast will be equipped and usefully employed as cruisers.
The political condition of the State of Yucatan had induced a course of conduct towards her which exempted her from the evils of war. Having received information which justified the belief that this generous course on the part of the United States had been abused, on the 16th of October last. I instructed the Commander of the squadron that “the President has given to the new position in which Yucatan is placed by the pronunciamento of Merida; a careful consideration and directs me to inform you that the State must be regarded as an integral part of the Mexican republic, and her people as a portion of the public enemies with whom we are at war, and you will act towards other portions of Mexico.”
These instructions will be carried into effect.
During the past season, the brig Truxton has been lost, and the brig Perry wrecked; but has been, by great exertions of Lieutenant-commanding Blake, go to Key West, and will be brought to Norfolk for repair. The officers and crew of the Truxton became prisoners to the Mexicans. An inquiry will be had as to the causes of both disasters—a proceeding due to the officers and to the service.
No general cartel has been established between the two governments to regulate the exchange of prisoners during the existing war. A proposition of the Mexican government to exchange the officers and crew of the Truxton against General La Vega and the officers who accompanied him, prisoners of war in the United States, was by your direction acceded to, and the exchange has been carried into effect. Our officers and men were placed on board our squadron and sent home; and the Mexican officers, being at full liberty, have been offered a free passage in one of our public vessels, and, I have reason to believe, have sailed from Pensacola for Vera Cruz.
In concluding my report of the operations of the Naval forces in the Gulf of Mexico, I deem it but an act of justice to call your attention to some considerations which must be borne in mind, when forming an estimate of the results accomplished. The navy of the United States is designed for the protection of our commerce in the most distant seas. The vessels composing it are authorized by law, and have been so constructed, in size and draft of water, as to navigate the ocean with safety.
The outlets of the rivers emptying into the Gulf are protected by bars, which afford but small depth of water, and the navigation of this confined sea is exposed to dangers for many months in the year by storms, sudden and violent; so that a vessel, constructed with a draft light enough to cross the bars, encounters considerable risk in keeping the sea. When hostilities with Mexico commenced, no such vessels belonged to the navy—they would have been almost useless except to prosecute hostilities in her waters. Since the necessity arose, and authority was given, vigorous efforts to supply these means have been made, and will be continued; but some time has necessarily elapsed before they could be provided to the limited extent which has been reached.
It gives me pleasure to bear testimony to the chivalrous patriotism which has animated the officers of the navy of all grades, in prompting them to seek active service against he enemy, and to offer, with the most anxious desire, to be permitted to engage in the most perilous enterprises against the enemy; while those engaged in the irksome and harassing duties of a blockade have performed their dull and heavy task with out a murmur, and with no stronger desire than to exchange it for some active and useful enterprise, however hazardous or difficult of execution.
By the terms of the annexation of the Republic of Texas as one of the States of our Union, the public vessels which composed the Texan Navy were ceded to the United States. On the eleventh day of May last, Hiram G. Runnels, Esq, appointed agent for that purpose, received at Galveston, from the Texas authorities, the sloop-of-war Austin, brigs Wharton and Archer, and the schooner San Bernard. The sloop Austin has been brought to Pensacola, and will be rebuilt, and form an interesting accession to the Navy of the United States. The two brigs and schooner, after survey, were found too much decayed to justify their repair, and have been ordered to be sold. The proceeds of sale will be paid into the Treasury of the United States.
Under orders from their government, certain officers of the Texan navy were in charge of the vessels in ordinary when the delivery was made, and continued in that employment tat the request of our agent. They could not be paid as officers of the Navy of the United States; but, believing it to be just and proper, directions have been given to make them compensation for taking care of the property of the United States, at the rate of pay which was allowed them by Texas at the date of its incorporation into our Union.
Beyond this, I have not considered that the laws of the United States authorized me to make payment to any one because of his having been an officer of the Navy of Texas.
The estimates for the naval services for the next fiscal year have been prepared by my direction, and transmitted to the Secretary of the Treasury, according to law.
I have the honor to present here with the reports from the several bureaux, and estimates in detail for the several branches of the naval service. They are based on the employment, pending the war, of ten thousand men, as allowed by law, and a number of vessels in commission to give them employment. A statement of the classes of vessels, with their rate and number is marked E in the papers accompanying the report from the Bureau of Construction. No estimates are presented for the construction of vessels as permanent additions to the navy. I deem it, however, my duty to suggest, that authority of building at least four sea steamers, capable of bearing an armament sufficient for their own defence, would essentially promote the interests of the public service. The great utility of such vessels in the squadrons in the Pacific, and the China seas, on the cast of Africa, and on the Brazil station, is established by the experience of other nations who employ them.
The estimates from the Bureau of Yards and Docks have been prepared in reference to the existing and pressing wants of the public service; and attention is respectfully asked to he remarks of the officer at the head of that bureau. The difficulties which have been experienced in the work on dry dock at New York, have retarded its progress, but its practicability is not doubted; and its great importance to the navy induces me earnestly to recommend the appropriation of the required funds for its prosecution.
The importance of Pensacola as a naval station, with the necessary facilities of repairing and refitting ships of war, has for many ears been pressed on the consideration of Congress.—But at no period has the public interest so imperiously required that improvements should be made at that place as at this time. A large naval force is employed in the Gulf of Mexico, exposed to injury from tempests, and engaged in hostile operations. If any of our vessels become materially disabled, they cannot be repaired with out leaving the station, and coming as far north as Norfolk; and in the voyage the most serious disasters may befall them.
A dock with sufficient capacity to receive vessels of the largest class, is an indispensable improvement at Pensacola, and I earnestly recommend that an appropriation may be made or that purpose.
A fever of most malignant form has prevailed in the hospital at Pensacola during the past season. I herewith transmit a copy of a report of a joint board of army and navy surgeons, who were directed to investigate the causes. Their opinion is, that the place will be restored to its former salubrity, by removal of local causes of disease. Estimates are submitted for this purpose.
By the act of Congress of August, 10, 1846, the appropriations for the navy yard at Memphis for the current year, are to be confined in the expenditure to the construction of a rope walk. Proper measures have been adopted to conform to this restriction. The estimates are prepared with this view. If it shall be deemed advisable to make this yard a place of construction, and in view of its great advantages in the building and outfit of steamers, I may hope that the original purpose of the establishment will not be abandoned; it will be advisable not to continue the restriction on the appropriation for the next year.
The piece f ground called “St. Helena,” opposite to the navy yard at Gosport, has been bought by virtue of authority given in the act of 10th of August last. When the State of Virginia shall have consented to the said purchase, an estimate will be submitted to make the improvements which were contemplated when the authority to make the purchase was given.
The system by which clothing is furnished to the navy has realized the expectations of those who devised it. The supply is abundant, of excellent quality, at a cheap cost; and no appropriation is asked for the next year; or, without some great disaster, will ever be required again.
In supplying our squadrons abroad, depots or stores in which provisions are collected in anticipation of the wants of the vessels, are indispensable. I concur in the recommendation of the chief of the Bureau of Provisions and Clothing, that the act of June 17, 1844, requiring the Secretary of the Navy to order commissioned or warrant officers of the navy to take charge of the naval stores for foreign squadrons, ought to be modified. The compensation allowed would command the services of competent and experienced persons in civil life. It is a duty which but few officers desire, or are qualified for, and it does not appear proper to require of an officer to enter into and to perform duties under orders. From the experience had of its operation, I have no doubt that money would be saved by allowing the appointment of civilians, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and thus enlarge the sphere of selection.
The act of March 3d, 1843, requiring supplies for the navy to be procured by contract, on advertisement, with the lowest bidder, has not been construed to affect contracts executed prior to its enactment.
Contracts for the supply of cheese and butter for five years were in a course of execution at the dare of the passage of this law, and will expire, one in December, 1846, and one in May, 1847. The result of a careful examination made at the bureau is, that economy has been promoted, and the quality of the ration greatly improved by this mode of contracting. I respectfully invite attention to the recommendation on that subject.
The naval school, during the past year, has been continued under the judicious superintendence of Commander Franklin Buchanan, and gives renewed promise of usefulness to the service. At the last session of Congress, it was made the subject of no special appropriation; but permission was given to apply a limited sum ($28,500) from the existing appropriations to “instructions, improvements and repairs at Fort Severn” This moderate provision has enabled the department to make some necessary additions to the accommodations of the school, and has been found sufficient for its economical support. It is hoped that a similar provision will be adopted for the ensuing year. The propriety of affording to midshipmen the means of acquiring that knowledge which is essential to the skilful discharge of their professional duties has been long recognized by Congress in its annual appropriations for instruction on board our ships of war. In the prosecution of a like purpose, a naval school, it is believed, will be found to add little to the cost of the present defective system, while it cannot fail to be attended with the most important benefits to the navy.
Connected with the Bureau of Ordnance and Hydrography is the Observatory. Besides conducting an extensive series of astronomical observations, it is the duty of that office to construct charts, prove nautical instruments before purchase, rte chronometers, and supply our armed cruisers with the nautical books, instruments, maps and charts necessary to their safe conduct at sea. The arrangement is such as to promote economy and to give assurance that these indispensable aids to give assurance that these indispensable aids may be relied on. The observations made and published are exclusively the work of naval officers, and are highly creditable to their scientific attainments. There can be no doubt that, with the facilities of the Observatory, we might produce our own nautical ephemeris, for which we are now dependant on foreign nations, and without which our ships that are abroad could not find their way home, nor those at home venture out of sight of our own shores. A small appropriation would be sufficient to accomplish the object; and it may well be anticipated that the expenditure would be returned by supplying our merchant vessels with the American nautical almanac at cost.
I invite attention to the report from the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. The authority to appoint a small number of assistant surgeons is necessary to the public service. Under existing circumstances it has been found necessary to employ citizen physicians in some of our smaller vessels. The commandant of the marine corps has prepared estimates for the number of officers and marines as fixed by law. I am strongly impressed with the opinion that an increase of the rank and file of the corps would great promote the efficiency of our ships in their operations against Mexico. With light pieces prepared as field artillery on board each ship, the expedition which must include operations on shore would derive important aid from increased guards of marines.
The act of August 4th, 1842, provided that, until otherwise ordered by Congress, officers of the navy shall be increased beyond the number in the respective grades that were in the service on the 1st day of January, 1842. This restriction has been construed to apply to warrant officers, other than midshipmen. The number of officers, boatswains, gunners, carpenters and sail makers happened to be small for the wants of the service at the date fixed. Embarrassment is often felt for want of authority to add to the number. It is a power which has never been abused; and as such appointments are rewards of meritorious seamen or mechanics, it appears to me that the restriction might be removed without detriment to the public interest or danger of abuse.
I cannot conclude this report without inviting attention to the operation of the act of Congress of March 3d, 1845, in regard to the appointment of midshipmen. The justice of the principle established is unquestionable, and its application has given general satisfaction. Previously to its passage, appointments were made without regard to residence, and resulted in inequalities which it will take many years to remove. The law forbids any appointment from a State having more than its proportion. Some applications for midshipmen’s warrants have recently been made in behalf of sons of officers who have fallen in battle, which could not be granted, on account of their residence in States not entitled. I recommend that the restriction of the law may be so far removed, that one out of five or six vacancies, as they occur in the grade of midshipmen, may be filled at large, irrespective of the place of residence, in the same manner as a portion of the cadets at West Point are now annually appointed. Cases of peculiar merit occasionally presenting themselves, might thus be provided for under the direction of the President.
I have the honor to be very respectfully your obedient
servant.
J.Y. MASON.
To the PRESIDENT.
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p4 2487 words
Wreck of the Brig ‘Somers’ GREAT LOSS OF LIFE
By the arrival yesterday morning of bark Morgan Dix, Capt. Hamilton, we have received dates from the squadron at Anton Lizardo to the afternoon of Sunday, the 13th Dec. The full particulars of the melancholy loss of the U. S. brig Somers will be found below. Among the passengers on board the Morgan Dix were Purser L. Washington, Jr., of the Mississippi steam frigate, with his clerk, G. Hutchinson—both on their way to the North. The following account of the loss of the Somers, was furnished to the Picayune by one of their attentive correspondents:
U.S SQUADRON,
ANTON LIZARDO
December
9th, 1846.
Gentlemen—I have been requested to make a statement of the circumstances attending the melancholy loss of the U. States Brig Somers, while maintaining the blockade off the harbor of Vera Cruz. The writer of this was a witness of most of the occurrences detailed, and the narration may be regarded as every way authentic.
On the evening of the 7th inst. The Somers had taken shelter under Green Island, there being the usual appearances indicating a norther.—Early in the morning of the 8th, a sail was reported from aloft. Capt. Semmes got under way to chase, and stood out some miles, until he made out the John Adams, being on her return from Tampico. We hailed her appearance with great satisfaction, as Com. Perry had already informed us that she should relieve us from the blockade as soon as she came in.
As the wind had already hauled to the north, and the weather was threatening, Capt. Semmes at once ran back to Green Island, intending to anchor as soon as he could regain his former berth, which we had proved in the previous gales to be safe and comfortable, besides enabling us to maintain our station upon the blockade.
On approaching the anchorage another sail was discovered, apparently standing down for Vera Cruz through the passage between Green Island and Blanquilla Shoal, with the intention, as was supposed, of running the blockade. Apprehending that the stranger vessel might succeed in her design, Capt. Semmes was induced to change his purpose and run by Green Island, standing across the passage to intercept her, making short tacks between the reefs. The winds was then freshening from the north west, but Capt. Semmes hoped to be able to maintain his position until the suspicious vessel approached, and to cut her off from Vera Cruz. To effect this object it was necessary to press the Somers with canvass, in order to avoid falling to leeward upon the reefs, and finally to fetch Green Island anchorage.
The Somers was exceedingly light, having on board only fourteen barrels of provisions, an about six hundred gallons of water. After standing across the passage, the vessel was tacked and ran back towards Green Island, and as we approached our berth, Captain Semmes said he would anchor; but as there was a lull at the moment, and the weather rather softened, he determined to hold on a little longer, and wore round and stood across the passage again. As we neared Pajanos reef, we tacked and stood for the Northern point of the Green Island reef. The strange vessel in the meantime came down rapidly, but showed no colors. While at this point, about half past nine o’clock, A.M., while Captain Semmes was standing in the ice arm chest, observing the reef with his glass, the officer of the deck, Lieutenant James L. Parker, reported the appearance of a squall. The brig was then on the larboard tack, under topsails, courses, jib and main trysail. Captain Semmes immediately crossed to windward, and ordered the main sail to be hauled up, followed upon the instant by the order to brail up the trysail. The main sail was hauoled up, but the trysail took against the lee rigging, and was in par brailed up with great difficulty, at the same time the helm was put hard up. The squall now pressing her, the order was given by the officer of the deck to let go the lee main topsail sheet, and on the next instant to cut away all tacks and sheets. Finding she would not pay off, Captain Semmes ordered the helm to be put down, hoping to bring her to the wind. It was, however, all unavailing. From the moment she commenced careening, she continued to go over with great rapidity, and in thirty seconds was on her beam ends. In less than ten minutes she sunk. The puff of wind was much more violent than could have been expected from the appearances of the weather. The accident is, however, mainly due to the extreme lightness of the vessel. One or two minutes after she was over, most of the men and officers had gained the side of the vessel or the tops. Dr. Wright and Lieut. Parker, first to reach the main chains. They were followed by several men, and an attempt was made, with such means as were at hand, to cut away the main rigging, the men and officers using their pen knives and sheath knives for the purpose.—Capt. Semmes, who had been dashed on the ice side, was now drawn from the water, and as soon as he gained the side directed our exertions. The first lieutenant, the master, and passed midshipman Hynson, with a large number of men, had by this time reached the side of the vessel, and were making strenuous exertions to relieve her of her masts; but it was a fruitless effort, for upon the weather rigging. The small larboard quarter boat was in the meantime cleared away and dropped carefully round leeward, and manned by her usual complement of five oarsmen.—Midshipman Clarke, who had gained the main top by swimming from the steerage hatch, was ordered by Capt. Semmes to take charge of the boat. Finding that there was no chance of saving the brig, and that she was fast sinking, Captain Semmes ordered Mr. Clarke to shove off with Dr. Wright and seventeen men, besides Purser Steele, (who reached the boat by swimming as she as clearing the wreck, first inquiring if there was room in the boat for another,) to pull for Green Island, about half a mile distant, an immediately to return if possible and save more lives. This order was at once executed, but not until some of those in the boat had solicited, by name, each of the officers left on the wreck to come with them. These officers resolutely declared that they would wait and take their chance with the brig. Passed midshipman Hynson, who had been partially disabled by a bad burn received in the firing of the Creole, was particularly implored to go into the boat. A lad by the name of Nutter jumped out of the boat and offered his lace to Mr. Hynson, and a man by the name of Powers did the same thing. Mr. Hynson, refusing both offers, those men then declare that others might have their places, and that they would abide on the brig with Mr. Hynson. Capt. Semmes, who was in impaired health, was also entreated to go, but refused. Lieut. Parker answered a similar solicitation by saying he would drown with the brig. Lieut. Claiborne and Acting Master Clemson held the same language. It is a remarkable circumstance that three of the officers and all the men who acted thus nobly are saved. When the boat shoved off, the gale was blowing with great violence and a heavy sea running, so that for some moments it as a matter of doubt whether the boat would live. Purser Steele at one time proposed to leave the boat for a fish-davit he saw floating by. The boat, however, reached the island in about twenty minutes.
As soon as the men were landed, Mr. Clare, disregarding the most strenuous entreaties, resolutely shoved off again with a volunteer crew at the imminent hazard of their lives. Less than three minutes after the boat left the brig, Capt. Semmes, finding the vessel settling under them, gave an order for every man to save himself. All simultaneously plunged into the water, and grasped the posts, gratings, scars, coops and other floating objects at hand. Many must have gone down from the want of any support whatever: others struggled on frail floats to be finally drifted on the reefs and dashed into pieces. Some were driven to sea to be heard no more, and others encountered the worst fate which could be apprehended in being devoured by sharks. Of near sixty who plunged from the wreck, only seventeen escaped.
Through all of this appalling scene the greatest composure was observed by men and officers. There was no appearance of panic, no exhibition of selfishness. Those who could not swim were particularly enjoined to go in the boat. A large man by the name of Seymour, the ship’s cook, had got into the boat. Lieut. Parker commanded him to come our, in order to make room for two smaller men, and he obeyed the order, but was afterwards directed to go in the boat, when it was found he could not swim. Capt. Semmes and Lieut. Parker were picked up by Mr. Clarke from a grating, and Jacob Hazard, yeoman, was rescued swimming near them. Those who survived have told of many instances of heroic self devotion. The acting master, Henry A. Clemson, was struggling on a small steering sail boom with five others, two of whom could not swim.—He found that all could not be supported and he left and struck out alone and unsupported. He was seen for the last time upon a sky-light, and probably perished in the surf. The five men he left were saved, the two who could not swim being supported by their comrades, Amos Colson and John Williamson. This completes the history of our own efforts; but with grateful hearts we have yet to mention the daring and devoted exertions of the foreign men of war. There were lying at Sacrificios, about two miles to leeward of the wreck, H.B. M. ships Endymion and Alarm and the brig Daring, commanded respectively by Capts. Lambert, Franklin and Matson; the French brigs Pylade and Mercure, Capts. Deubut and La Voyaire; and the Spanish corvette Louisa Fernanda, Capt. Puente. As soon as the accident was discovered, the boats of all these were simultaneously sent to our relief.
The crew of the Endymion to the number of two hundred came aft and volunteered. There was the most noble emulation as to which vessel should use the greatest expedition and persevere in the most strenuous exertions. The violence of the gale was such at that time that none of the boats could pull against it, and it was with the deepest regret that Capt. Lambert and others in authority felt it to be their duty to make signals recalling their boats. An hour or two afterwards, when there was a slight abatement of the gale, they again put forth at the peril of their lives, and succeeded in saving fourteen persons and bringing from Green Island those who had landed there. The first lieutenant of the Endymion, Mr. Tarleton, rescued the first lieutenant of the somers from Pajaros reef, which he succeeded by a miracle in reaching safely, but where his situation was most critical. The most gallant and well-directed efforts were made by the officers and crew in the boat of the Mercure. She rescued ten men at sea to leeward, on a spar. One hardly knows which to admire most, the fore-thought or the daring of this noble adventure. The risk was incalculable. Five boats, representing each of the foreign vessels, reached the island, and took off 23 persons to their respective vessels, where they were received with a degree of kindness and delicate consideration which I cannot adequately describe, but which none of us will ever forget. They gave us refreshments and supplied us with clothes. I regret that I do not know the names of all the generous and brave officers who were in charge of the boats of the different vessels. I cannot, however, forbear mentioning such as I have learned, viz: Lt. Wood and the gunner of the Endymion, and Midshipman Jaliz, of the Pylade.
The strange vessel proved to be the Abrasia, bound for the squadron at Anton Lizardo. She passed very near the Somers, but the catastrophe was so sudden that she failed to discover it. As soon as the boat landed at Green Island, Dr. Wright took the colors and had them hoisted in the most conspicuous place, in order to attract the attention of the Abrasia, so that the accident might be reported to the squadron. We were, however, to-day, the bearers of our own sad story.
The Mexicans saw the accident from the mole, and cheered and exulted for a long time. The brig had been for a long time engaged in the blockade, and had done more to interrupt the commerce of the port than almost all the other vessels. Within the last fortnight both town and castle had been kept in a state of constant alarm by the burning of the Creole and other demonstrations, which I presume you will hear of in due time. I have no doubt the Mexicans were relieved when they saw her sink into the ocean. I append a list of the lost and saved—37 men saved—37 lost. One officer, Mr. Rodgers, Passed Midshipman, and one man, John G. Fox, were captured by the Mexicans two days before, while reconnoitering an important point, in company with Dr. Wright, the latter escaping to witness the catastrophe of the brig.
J.H.W.
List of officers and men lost in the Somers.
Henry A. Clemson, Acting Master. John R. Hyson, Passed Midshipman. William G. Brazier, Ebenezer Terrel, Charles H. Havon, James Ryder, James Thompson, Charles Lowe, Thomas young, William Gillan, Matmas Gravel, Major Cain, Dennis Kelly, Alexander Anker, Charles McFarland, James Fennel, Charles True, John Day, William Purdy, Edward McCormick, William Elmsley, William Quest, John Hargrave, William W. Cardy, John McGowan, Joseph Antonio, Adolph Belmente, Manuel Howard, William W. Powers, Henry W. Spear, James Chapman, Lewis Johnson, Jonatins Leopold, Thomas Jefferson, William H. Rose, Peter Hermandez.
List of Those Saved.
R. Semmes, Lieutenant commanding. M.G.L. Claiborne, Lieutenant. John L. Parker, Lieutenant. John F. Steele, Purser. John H. Wright,
Passed Assistant Surgeon. Francis G. Clark, Midshipman. Edmond
T. Stevens, Purser’s Steward. Jacob Hazard, Yeoman. Amos Colson,
William Johnson, Mathew Buck, John McCargo, John G. Van Norden, Charles Seymour,
John Williamson, John Pollen, John Smith, Henry Strommell, Thomas Mulhollen,
George Wakefield, William Keys, Francis Haire, William Toland, William F.
Thompson, Christopher Lawrence, Joseph Jones, Charles Nutlee, Washington Cooper,
William Dix, Francis A. Waldeon, James Chambers.
[MLD]
Friday, January 1, 1847 RE47v43n71p4c5 350 words
COMMODORE STEWART.—We publish the following letter form Commodore Stewart with pleasure (says they Pennsylvanian.) The brave veteran talk with all the blunt frankness of his nature, and does justice equally to the president and himself. We do not know who the correspondent was that made the use of Commodore Stewart’s name, in the matter alluded to—but we recollect that his story was told with all that oracular assumption of authority which is so characteristic of many of the Washington letter writers, and especially those belonging to the Federal press. These writers are forever finding mare’s nests, and Christopher Columbus himself was a fool to man of them for grave discoveries. They smell a bit of news afar off, and scene the object of the cabinet meeting in the breeze—predicting things that never happen, and staking their reputation for the truth for the worst of scandal. The coolness and solemnity with which these things are uttered, are only excelled by the impudence with which they meet the contradiction. To this class of writers Com. Stewart administers a general rebuke:
To the Editors of the Pennsylvanian:
I am glad to find by your paper of the 22d instant, that the Union, of Washington City, has very properly rebuked the licentiousness of the Washington letter-writer, in relation to the Chief Magistrate of this nation and myself. I concur with the Union, that there is not a word of truth in the statement of the letter-writer alluded to, in regard to what passed at the interview, which the President did me the honor to give me, on the occasion of my being in Washington lately. I trust I have been an officer too long and to better purpose, than to address the Commander-in-chief in the style the letter-writer has assumed. The President well knows all his own responsibilities, and will always be found equal to their encounter, in preference to their imposition on others and they, the writers, will find the President as free form the dread of responsibility, as he is from the dictum of the Washington letter-writers.
CHARLES STEWART
MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c1 151 words
COLONEL OF THE LOUISIANA REGIMENT.—Major Louis G. De Russy ahs been elected Colonel of the Louisiana Regiment of Volunteers, which has recently been mustered into the service of the United States. The election was conducted in strict accordance with law—thirty-nine commissioned officers voting. There were three competitors for the office, and the vote stood as follows: For Louis G. De Russy 21 votes; S. F. Marks 14; ------ Moone 4.
No choice
was made for the stations of Lieut. Colonel and Major. Capt. Theodore
Lewis received, on the first ballot, the highest vote for the first, and
Capt. Francis Girault the highest vote for the second named office; failing
to get a majority of the whole number of votes, there was no election. The law provides, in such cases, that the appointments shall be made by the
Governor—but it is optional with him to order a new election.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c1 260 words
ENTHUSIASM OF THE COUNTRY
Pennsylvania has with a promptness and patriotism which do her all credit, already filled up the requisition for a second regiment of volunteers for the Mexican war. The regiment is composed of the following companies, which will be mustered into the service of the Untied States at Pittsburg about the 5th January:
Reading Artiler, Capt. Loeser; Cameron Guards, (Harrisonburg,)Capt. Williams; Columbia Guards, (Danville,)Capt. Wilson; German Greys, (Pittsburgh,) Capt. Gutzweiler; Fayette County Volunteers, Capt. Roberts; American Highlanders, (Cambria County,) Capt. Geary; Cambria Guards, Capt. Murry; Westmoreland Guards, Capt. Johnston; Philadelphia Rangers, Capt. Naylor; Stockton Artillerists, (Carbon County,) Capt. Miller.
Mississippi, too, is again ready for the field with her second regiment. Her sons, many of whom we are proud to know personally, covered themselves with honor in the storming of Monterey. The new regiment, we are sure, will exhibit equal efficiency and gallantry on the plains of San Luis Potosi, or under the walls of Vera Cruz. The following companies, making up the second regiment, will rendezvous at Vicksburg, between the 1st and 5th of January. Mississippi is desirous to have the first regiment of “fighting boys” subject to the orders of Gen. Scott at New Orleans:
Lowndes Guards, Capt. A.K. Blyth; Marshal Relief Guards, Capt. J. H. Kilpatrick;
Choctaw Volunteers, Capt. Enos Elder; Monroe Volunteers, Capt. J. M. Acker;
Tippah Guards, Capt W. J. Daniels; Thomas Hinds’ Guards, (Jefferson Co.,)
Capt. Charles Clarke; Union Grays, (Auala Co.,) Capt. A. McWillie; Panola
Boys, Capt. A. A. Overton; Union Company, (Lawrence and Covington Counties,)
Captain’s name not given.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c1 850 words
Correspondence of the Journal of Commerce.
Monterey, (California,) Sept. 19th, 1846.
I now date from shore instead of the frigate Congress, because my duties are on land. The citizens of Monterey elected me on the 15th inst. Alcalde, that is chief magistrate of this jurisdiction. I had been performing the duties of the post under an appointment of the commander-in-chief of the American forces here. This commission expired on the 15th, when I was elected by the suffrages of the people. The vote polled was a very large one, though no officer or seaman, connected with our squadron, went to the polls. I mention these facts as an evidence of the good feelings which prevails here toward our Flag. Any hostility must have defeated my election. The office is a one which I do not covet; it is full of labor and responsibility. It covers every question of civil police in Monterey, and reaches to the lives and fortunes of the inhabitants, though and immense jurisdiction.
The Congress s here form her trip to the South. Her sailors and marines with Commodore Stockton at their head forced General Castro out of California. He might have infiladed the march of the Commodore from San Pedro to his camp and made the forces of the congress wade through their own blood. But he remained in his camp, fulminating paper missiles, till they were near his lines, then suddenly broke up and fled with a small band to Mexico. His officers and men have returned to their homes, and signed a parole not to take up arms against the authority of the United States, or say or do anything to disturb the tranquility of the present Government.—This puts an end to all further war in California. In deed there is no disposition here among the people to offer resistance. The masses are thoroughly with us, and right glad to get rid of Mexican rule. Had it been otherwise, they would never have elected me to the chief magistracy of Monterey. We are all regarded more in the light of benefactors than victors. Their friendship and confidence must never be betrayed. California must never be surrendered to Mexico. If that country has still good claims to her, let those claims be liquidated by an equivalent in money. But it would be treason to the lives and fortunes of the best inhabitants to surrender the province itself. Let Congress at once annex her to the Union as a territory, and establish a civil government.
We require here a new judicial system; the present one throws all the responsibility on the Alcalde. I broke through the trammels of usage a few days since, and empanelled the first jury that ever sat in California. The first men in Monterey were on it. The case involved a large amount of property, and the allegation of a high crime. No one man should decided such a case. The verdict of the jury was submitted to, without a murmur from either of the parties, and the community seemed much gratified with this new form of trial. They think, and very rightly took that twelve men are less liable to partiality, prejudice and corruption, than one. It was the establishment of trials by jury here, that probably lead to my election as magistrate.
Mr. Semple, an emigrant printer, and myself, have established a small paper here, the first ever published in California. It is issued every Saturday. Its appearance made quite a little sensation. We found the type in the forsaken cell of a monk, and the paper is such as is used here for segar wrappers, and was imported for that purpose. It is printed in English and Spanish. We are going to send at once to the United States for larger paper and a fresh font of type. With this new engine of power we are going to sustain the genius of American institutions here.
Three thousand emigrants from the United States, it is understood, have just arrived at San Francisco, in two companies, one commanded by Capt. Hastings, and the other by Capt. Prussel, and ten thousand more are on their way.
The frigates Congress and Savannah are here, also the Eric. She takes the present bearer of dispatches with our letter bag to Panama, on her cruise down the coast. The Congress and Savannah leave to morrow for the Bay of San Francisco, which they are going to fortify. The U. S. ship Portsmouth is now there. The Cayane and Warren are off Acapulco or Mazatlan; both these places will be captured, and all other ports of any importance in Lower California. The Savannah will soon return home; she has now been out over her time, and will have been absent all of four years before she gets home. Stir up Congress to send us a steamer out here. We are waiting for the arrival of the Potomac. The fort here is nearly finished. It is defended mostly by large brass pieces captured here, and which are provided with copper balls-rather expensive ammunition.
Yours truly,
W.C.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c2 248 words
Correspondence of the N.O. Picayune
Havana, December 13, 1846
Gentlemen—Capt. Aranjo is still here with his three hundred privateer licenses and letters of citizenship. He has not been able to dispose of a single one as yet. The price asked of each is $1000, with the corresponding letters of citizenship. It is probable he will take them all back with him to Mexico. It is supposed a man by the name of Juan Nepo Pereda has been dispatched to Colombia on business of a similar kind.
Information has been receive here form Mexico, that he Mexican Government had sold or delivered over to a Frenchman by the name of Ribaud, well known in New Orleans, the two Mexican men-of-war at Alvarado, called the Santa Anna and Mezicano, and that Ribaud had left at sea under the French flag, take them round Cape Horn and cruise against our commerce in the Pacific and east Indies. It is said that Ribaud holds a commission as captain in the Mexican Navy, yet it is not probable he will be able to accomplish his purpose.
The splendid
new sloop of war Albany Com’r. Breese, is here, to sail to-morrow for Pensacola. While off this port the Albany fell in with a schooner, on passing the Moro,
hauled down the English colors and hoisted the Mexican flag, much to the
astonishment of every body, and turned out to be a schooner from Yucatan,
with a very valuable cargo of cochineal and indigo.
[MLD]
Tuesday, RE47v43n72p1c2, January 5, 1847: LATER FROM THE ARMY.
From the N.O. Picayune
See Richmond Whig Volume 24, Issue 2, January 5, 1847: Page
4, Column D
The annexed criticism upon the operations of the Army in Mexico is from the pen of a gentleman who is every inch a soldier. Its temper is unexceptionable, and its reasoning is deserving of the most serious consideration. Whatever opinions may be entertained respecting the conclusions to which the writer has arrived, it will be conceded that he scrutinizes the past with a military eye and predicts the future with the boldness of a mind convinced of the accuracy of its deductions.
In regard to the advance of Gen. Wool upon Chihuahua, the views of the writer are in accordance with opinions we have time and again expressed. The uselessness or impracticality of that expedition became apparent to Gen. Wool himself, as he abandoned it without accomplishing anything. The consequences of this military mistake are discussed by our correspondent. Whether all the results contended for would have been attained had the disposition suggested by him been made of Gen. Wool’s army, is in some measure a matter of speculation; but he gives good reasons for his opinions, whilst the failure of Gen. Wool to achieve the objects contemplated in the formation of that army shows that its destination was a military error.
It is very probable that the opinions of our correspondent as to the future begin to prevail in high quarters. His views as to what should be done are given with that same distinctness as his observations upon what has already transpired. It is to be hoped that the Government will not be deterred, by fear of the cost, from putting the next campaign upon the most ample basis in regard to all the appointments necessary to its efficiency. Whatever is required in this behalf will be conceded by Congress and the country with alacrity. The carping of those, who “count the cost only” in considering military events, should not be heeded, as they would make the same ado if the war cost fifty cents or fifty millions. In nothing is it so true as in military operations, that parsimony is the worst kind of extravagance.
But enough of introductory. We again invite attention to the subjoined letter, which deserves the more consideration as it is firm and candid in tone without a particle of the complaining irritability which too often imparts to writings upon this subject the character of fault-finding strictures against the Government.
Monterey, Mexico, Dec. 9, 1846.
In writing of the operations of the campaign, I beg that I may not be classed among the “scribblers from the army,” who write only to trumpet forth their own fame and that of their corps- doing justice to none, injustice to many, and blinding the people as to the operations of the Army. Such letters are read with deep regret, for they are disparaging to the reputation and good name of the American soldiery. I suppose the people are, and indeed ought to be satisfied with the achievements of the Army. We have accomplished a great deal under many difficulties and trammels, and having done so much we must claim the privilege of pointing out those difficulties and trammels, of showing cause why they never should have existed, and proving that had they not existed we should be much further advanced in attaining our object- as advantageous peace.
The fundamental principle in war it “to operate, with superior forces, a combined movement on a decisive point,” and no plan of campaign can be promptly successful unless framed on this principle, particularly where it is the intention to act entirely on the offensive. Unfortunately for our Government this principle did not enter as an element in the present plan of campaign, and all operations growing out of it are necessarily directly opposed to it. Had we met an enterprising enemy, this defect in the present plan of campaign would have been rendered much more apparent, and its failure much more signal by defeat in detail. Suppose Gen. Wool, with his force and enormous supply of transportation and subsistence, had been concentrated on Gen. Taylor, would the latter have marched on Monterey with on 6000 men, not having more than enough transportation to carry subsistence for that number, and having to leave behind him his battery train on that account? Gen. Taylor had not sufficient transportation, with a depot as near as Cerralvo in his rear, to transport with his Army of 6000 men a supply to subsist it longer than two days after the 24th, (the day of the capitulation,) and had during the engagement to dispatch his train back to Cerralvo. Had this concentration been effected, Gen. Taylor would have had with his army before Monterey one month’s supplies, when he could have enforced an unconditional surrender of the town and forces, or followed on their rear in retreat and eventually have captured or massacred Ampudia’s entire army.
Had not the Chihuahua expedition been planned, and had the force and supplies of that army been promptly concentrated on Gen. Taylor, we would have been before Monterey eight weeks sooner, when it might have been taken without firing a gun. And why was this Chihuahua expedition a portion of the plan of campaign? Was it not reasonable to suppose that after our victories before Matamoros, our enemy would occupy and hold, as strategic points, Monterey and Saltillo, covering the strongest passes in the Sierra Madre and having San Luis Potosi as a base of operations? San Luis should then have been in the plan of campaign, the objective point, and all of our energies should have been exerted on this line. As it turns out, Gen. Kearney takes New Mexico without firing a gun, and after the battle of Monterey Gen. Wool arrives at Monclova, and reports his advance on Chihuahua as useless, whilst our enemy, whipped at Monterey, abandons Saltillo and concentrates at San Luis, which he never could have done had Gen. Wool’s army been promptly united with Gen. Taylor’s. Owing to this error in the plan of campaign our enemy not only gained time to fortify and fight at Monterey, but as a natural consequence from it, he also gained time to concentrate at San Luis. With the combined material of the two armies the objective point, San Luis, might have been gained, and, by a decisive action with Ampudia’s forces alone, at that point, the campaign might have ended, and probably the war. These are some of the difficulties under which we have labored, and but for which our Army could have done much more for the country. By these Gen. Taylor has been trammelled in his operations, and has not had an opportunity to display to the world what he could have done, had the plan of campaign been framed on military principles.
But let us look a little further into the difficulties growing out of and caused by the present plan of campaign. What is the relative position of our own and the enemy’s forces at this time? Santa Anna has beyond doubt concentrated at San Luis 37,000 men; he holds a central position which, with his force, cannot be approached from this direction even by superior forces, owing to the scarcity of water, which, on a large portion of the route, is held in tanks, and entirely at the disposal of the enemy. He holds himself invincible at that point, relying on the strength of Vera Cruz to resist attack, which must be taken before we can approach him by gaining his rear.
The number of Gen. Taylor’s army is very far overrated, even by the Union, which seems to estimate it at the actual volunteer force sent into the field and the regular force prescribed by law, without any allowance for the diminution of his force from casualties and sickness, which has far exceeded what might have been reasonably anticipated under the most unfavorable circumstances. Whatever may be thought of the strength of our force in Mexico at this date, I assert, and without fear of contradiction, that not more than fourteen thousand effective men could be brought into action to-morrow morning out of the whole army in the field. Now, what disposition of this inferior force necessarily results from the plan of the campaign? San Luis cannot be approached from this direction, and to go at our enemy we must approach him on another line. But the all important passes in the Sierra Madre must be held, to prevent our enemy from gaining our rear; and our forces, although inferior to the enemy in numbers, are necessarily scattered, whilst Santa Anna can operate en masse on any point. Thus we find ourselves compelled to operate on multiple lines, on an extended front, with an inferior force, whilst our enemy holds a single line of operations, and an interior one. This immense advantage to the enemy results entirely from the defective plans of campaign, and the only remedy is to form a new one, by which an increased force of 30,000 men must be concentrated on some decisive point. Vera Cruz and San Juan de Ulloa must be taken; then, and not till then, will Mexican generals and soldiers begin to think that their arms are not invincible, and not till then will the Mexican people mistrust the prowess of their army. The fall of Vera Cruz and San Juan de Ulloa may be a strong inducement to cause them to sue for peace, but I confidently believe that we will even then have to advance and fight the enemy at whatever point he may select. The Mexicans have no idea of making peace- even the private families in this town teach their children to hate Americans, and to lisp the name of Santa Anna as the saviour of their country, who is to whip the Americans whenever he meets them. It is absurd to think of peace unless our Government will take prompt and efficient measure to strike some decisive blow. Our force must be increased, the necessary subordination of military operations to the measure of supplies must be better considered, and the plans of campaign must be in strict accordance with military science. Then will our general in the field show to the world that he is not the man to win a battle and lose its advantages.
[MPR]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c5 478 words
THE WAR DUTY ON TEA AND COFFEE.
We are pleased that the Secretary of the Treasury has adopted the wise and manly policy of addressing the following frank and emphatic letter to the Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means:
TREASURY DEPARTMENT, Dec. 21, 1846.
Sir:--Permit me most respectfully to call your attention to the views submitted in my last annual report, in regard to imposing duties on tea and coffee.
These duties were suggested in view of the necessity of obtaining the loan therein proposed, and this Department feels bound to communicate the opinion entertained by it, that, in the absence of these duties, it will probably be wholly impracticable to negotiate the loan on such terms as would be permitted by Congress.
Most respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
R.J. WALKER,
Secretary of the Treasury.
Hon. James J. McKay,
Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means.
The country
is engaged in war, which to bring to a speedy and satisfactory issue, it
is necessary to raise a certain amount. This loan cannot be effected
upon terms honorable to the credit of the Government, unless the trifling
tax proposed for war purposes upon tea and coffee be laid, so as to place
the finances of the country on a firm basis and to give a guarantee to the
world that the Government is willing and able to meet all its responsibilities. Under these circumstances, it was to be hoped that no impediment would be
thrown in the way of a temporary measure demanded by the highest motives of
patriotism and national interest. But he Whig press has already raised
its voice of clamor and complaint. They substantially declare that
they will do nothing to relieve the pressure upon the Treasury; nothing to
feed and clothe our gallant volunteers and army; nothing to push on the war
to a vigorous and permanent settlement—unless the tariff of ’46 be repealed,
even before trial, and their own precious bantling of 1842 be restored in
all its hideous proportions. The war with Mexico, they say, was produced
by the Democratic party—that party has destroyed the tariff of 1842, and unless
the Whigs have the full protection contained in that act they will resist
the adoption of a temporary measure to effect a loan, for the successful conduct
of the war. But in this, we believe, they misrepresent the sentiments
of the great body of the Whig party. A few days since, we heard on
of the staunchest and most prominent Whigs declare, that Congress ought at
once to lay the duty on tea and coffee, so as to elevate the credit of the
Government, and enable it to raise the money necessary for the war; that
the tax was so inconsiderable, and would fall so equally upon all classes,
that the country would cheerfully support it, especially at a time so commercially
prosperous as this.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c5 1,003 words
LATER FROM THE SOUTH
The steamer Palmetto, from Galveston, to N. Orleans, in the midst of a heavy gale, took fire, producing the utmost possible alarm among the passengers—but it was soon subdued by the coolness of Capt. Smith.
There is a story in the Galveston News, told by a teamster recently from Mexico, to the effect that Col. Riley was recently surrounded at Mlos, by 5000 Mexicans under Gen. Urrea, and that there was no hope of Col. R.’s escape.
The Picayune does not believe a word of it.
The military and civic authorities of Tabasco have published a pronunciamento, renouncing their allegiance to the Federal Government of Mexico, as that Government had failed to send them aid and succor. Senor Traconis was appointed as the head of the revolution, in consideration of his heroic defence of the State from the invitation of the American squadron in the month of October.
In Campeachy, Senor Domingo Barret published an address on the 8th November, in which he presents himself as the chief of the glorious revolution which was that day commenced, and swears to discharge his duty with loyalty and purity. This may be a new outbreak of the spirit before manifested in Campeachy, to sunder entirely all political connection with the Government of Mexico. We have no accounts of how it has resulted.
The Picayune gives accounts of the loss of the Somers off Vera Cruz.
An extract of a letter to the British consul at Tampico, written by the captain of the British frigate Alarm, describes the accident, speaks of the 37 men saved by the joint exertions of the French and English; but explicitly gives to the Frenchmen the credit of the most efficient service.
A letter from Tampico says it is expected Herrera will be elected President of the republic and that overtures for peace will be immediately made to our Government; but it si thought probable that as soon as Santa Anna hears of such an occurrence, he will proceed to the capital and depose the President elect.
The Eco del Tampico of the 12th contains the correspondence between General Taylor and Santa Anna, which is of some importance or an expression fo Santa Anna. General Taylor’s letter is dated from Saltillo, November 20 in which he acknowledges Santa Anna’s courtesy in releasing seven prisoners, and quotes from the armistice of Monterey a passage in justification of our government against a reflection of Santa Anna. He concludes with expressing a hope that the Mexican Congress will accept the offers of the United States for the termination of hostilities.
Santa Anna replies from San Luis Potosi, November 24. He supposes Gen. La Vega to be still in New Orleans, and concludes with the following passage which we find in the Picayune:
“I will conclude this note by assuring you that I entertain the hope that the sovereign National Congress, which is immediately to be installed, will act as shall be most conducive to the interests of the Republic; but I believe that I do not deceive myself in assuring you, that neither the Congress, nor any Mexican, will ever be able to listen to overtures of peace unless the national territory be first evacuated by the forces of the United States, and the hostile attitude of their vessels of war be withdrawn. This must be without a doubt the preliminary of whatever negotiation may be opened; and it may be permitted to me to declare to you, that the nation, moved by a sentiment of patriotism, and determined to defend at every hazard and inch by inch its territory, will never cease to qualify as it deserves, and as the world has already qualified it, the conduct of the United States; and it will do whatever it can and ought honorably to deserve the title which it bears of independent and free.” [MPR]
This (says the N.O. Courier) is certainly hostile language, on the part of the Mexican chief, mixed with the usual quantum of characteristic bravado. An interview on the plains of San Luis Potosi will perhaps bring him to reason.
Col. Gates, at Tampico, has published an order prohibiting the landing of spirituous liquors at that place.
Col. Hays has arrived form New Orleans, at Galveston, and gone to San Antonio, to have his regiment in complete and speedy organization.—He reports that Gen. Scott was on his way to Tampico, “where he will take command of one division of the Army, and will of course be the Commander-in-chief hereafter, from whom all orders must proceed.”
There are rumors of an expected attack upon Tampico (where there are 800 Americans) by 3,000 Mexicans.
A letter dated Monterey, Dec. 4, in the Delta says:
“Although I stated in my last that there would be no immediate movement of the army, there is to be one in less than ten days, but it will be something on the retrograde order. Gen. Taylor has either been informed of the concentration of a Mexican force at Victoria, or designs opening a communication with Tampico, for he moves on to the Capital of Tamaulipas, with two Regiments, if not a whole Division, in little more than one week’s time. Orders to this effect have been read to the 1st Regiment of Infantry, with whom the Baltimore Battalion acts, and the Georgia Volunteers. As yet, none others have been notified, though it is thought that the entire Division, with probably th e7th infantry, will move.
“Gen. Hamer’s remains were consigned to the grave to-day.
“Santa Anna still continues to impress the natives with the belief, that
he will shortly show himself in front of Monterey. The last extraordinary
express reached here this morning, by which he sends in word that he has made
eight days of the journey from San Luis de Potosi to Saltillo, and that the
people of Monterey need not fear but that they will be able to celebrate the
December fiesta out of sigh of the ‘perfidious Americans.’ ”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c6 490 words
On Saturday morning, we learn, the Rev. Dr. Plumer delivered an eloquent and impressive address at the Union Hotel to the volunteers, who are about to embark for the seat of war.
Yesterday morning at ½ past 6 the Richmond companies, commanded by Captains Scott and Carrington, the Alexandria company, Capt. Corse, and the Caroline company, Capt. Bankhead, too passage on the steamer “Curtis Peck” for Fortress Monroe. The were […] Morris Commanding. Dr. Wm. A. Patleson and Lieut. Morris made some touching remarks, which were feelingly responded to by Capt. Scott. We understand the scene was a most interesting one, thousands of anxious spectators crowding the wharf, &c. At City Point these companies would be jointed by Captain H. Archer’s Petersburg company, which will make up the first battalion. Three companies now remain in this city, viz: Captain Wm. B. Archer’s 3d Richmond company; Capt. Alburtis’ Berkely company; and Captain Herper’s Staunton Volunteers.
On Saturday evening first Lieutenant Cooke reached this city, to tender the services of Captain J.P. Young’s company of Portsmouth volunteers just raised. We know not if they have been accepted.
From the following notice of the Petersburg Republican, it will be seen that the gallant “Little Cockade” will soon have another company in the field. Indeed, we heard on Saturday night, that the company had been accepted, with Wm M. Robinson, Esq., as their Captain:
“A portion of the second Company of Petersburg Volunteers, now numbering about fifty men, left town yesterday morning for the purpose of visiting one or two public places tin the country to obtain recruits. They will be at Hicksford next Monday, court day, where they expect to fill up the list. It has been reported to them that a gentleman in Dinwiddie has obtained the names of 15, and one in Sussex has ten, thus making their whole number 75. If they are as successful in Prince George and Greensville as they anticipate, they expect to go to Richmond on Thursday next to be mustered into the service of the United Stats, and, judging from those that we have seen, the Regiment will not be able to boast of a finer looking set of men. Indeed, they will be worthy of being commanded by the best graduate that WestPoint can produce.”
From the Lynchburg papers we learn that Major Early succeeded, after great exertions, in enrolling 55names, 40 of whom were from the county of Franklin. He was to be in Lynchburg on Saturday, and hoped to make up the full number in that quarter—if not, he would conduct all now enrolled to his city, where they may join some company. (The great difficulty in organizing a company in that region of the State seems to be the want of a suitable place of rendezvous.)
For the information
of the Richmond Whig and other Whig papers we extract from the Harrisonburg
Register the following good news from the “Tenth Legion.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c6 183 words
ROCKINGHAM VOLUNTEERS.—Two companies of volunteers are now in process of formation in this county. We understand that one company in the 116th regiment is nearly full, and will proceed to the election of their officers on to-day, (Saturday.) The roll in Harrisonburg is, we learn, filling up; and with a little extra exertion on the part of our young friends, both companies will soon be ready to take the field under the new requisition.
The Charlestown Spirit of Jefferson says
“The company from Jefferson, under command of captain John W. Rowan, are awaiting marching orders. The minimum number has been obtained, but the Captain has a […] ority to increase his list ten or fifteen more. Those who purpose joining must decide immediately, or the company will be under way for Richmond.
“An election was held on Thursday last, under direction of Colonel Francis Yates, of the 55th regiment of V.M., for the commissioned officers of this company, and resulted as follows:
“John W. Rowan, Captain.
John Avis, Jr., First Lieutenant.
Lawrence B. Washington, first second Lieutenant.
William McCormick, second second Lieutenant.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c6 568 words
MR. BAYLY’S SPEECH
We have read with great interest the Union’s sketch of this gentleman’s able and conclusive speech, on the 23d December, upon the Mexican war. The “hour rule” prevented him from elaborating the important points which he so clearly laid down and briefly but strongly argued. We presume that he will prepare his remarks for publication, when we shall lay them before our readers. In the mean time, as an act of justice to a Virginian, who always speaks with force and learning and clearness of argument, we extend the following compliments to his well-earned reputation.
The Washington Correspondent of the Ohio Statesman, under date of Dec. 23d, writes:
“Washington Hunt, of New York, an excellent fellow, and quite a handsome man to boot, (as I mentioned last night,) who wears elaborate shirt ruffles, and bores the House almost into fits with twaddle, spoke, not on , but at the question, for the first hour to-day. He was followed by Gen. Bayly, of Va, whose speech well maintained his reputation as one of the first constitutional lawyers of the country. He discussed at length the right conferred by conquest; maintaining that it was not only the right, but the duty of the conquering power to establish temporary civil government in territory thus acquired, while held by force of arms. While he was referring, in the course of his arguments, to precedents in our own history, occurring during Madison’s administration, when similar proceedings were had in reference to the establishment of temporary civil governments, he remarked that, in the old party strife of those days, when impeachment was threatened from the same quarter, and indeed form the same city, (Boston,) it never entered into the heads of any one that the proceedings referred to, (Harrison’s proclamation, &c,) were part of the grounds to sustain the impeachment. He had yet to learn that these proceedings were complained of. It was reserved for later, and, he feared, not better days—for the advocates and apologists of Mexico, in similar proceedings, to find ground for impeachment.”
In the Weekly Union we find the following notice of Mr. B.’s remarks, in the Congressional synopsis:
“Mr. Bayly followed in an able and eloquent vindication of the administration and the war, replying with irresistible force to the following grounds of assault upon the administration, viz: First, that the President has unnecessarily brought on the war by refusing to treat with Mexico, as it is alleged she wanted us to d, in regard to the question of boundary alone; and by insisting upon not separating that question form our other causes of quarrel with Mexico. Second, that he precipitated a war by marching our army to the Rio Grande, within the disputed territory. Third—and it was a new ground taken by the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Davies)—that the President was guilty of treason, in permitting the return of Santa Anna to Mexico. Lastly, that he has been guilty of usurpation in the establishment of civil government in the territory which we have conquered’ the argument made by the honorable gentleman in replying to the latter point, was peculiarly clear, and added new lustre to his already brilliant reputation as a lawyer and statesman.
“Mr. Stanton followed on the same side, adding lien upon line, and precept
upon precept to the arguments of his predecessor, his own abilities losing
naught by the comparison.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c6 150 words
MILITARY MOVEMENTS.—In the steamer Alabama, which left New Orleans
on the 23d ultimo for the Rio Grande, and on board of which Gen. Scott and
his Staff were passengers, there were also embarked five companies of the
United States Mounted Riflemen, as follows: Company A, Capt. Loring and Lieut. Morris and Palmer; Company B, Capt. Sanderson and Lieut. Gordon; Company D,
Capt. Pope and Lieuts. Claiborne and Hawkins; Company E, Capt. Crittenden
and Lieut. May; and Company G, Capt. Simonson and Lieuts. Russell and
Gibbs, all destined for Tampico—the whole under the command of Major Sumner,
Major Burbridge being compelled to remain at New Orleans in consequence of
illness. Lieuts. Newton, Tipton, Taylor, Lindsay, and Ewell, with a
detachment of men, were also left behind for some days, to superintend the
shipment of the horses belonging to the companies, which are to be dispatched
at the earliest possible moment.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p2c1 942 words
LATER FROM THE ARMY
The steamer Fashion arrived last evening form Brazos Santiago, which place hse left on the 24th inst. To Capt. Yeatman, of the third regiment of Tennessee Volunteers, a Volunteer Aid de Camp of Gen. Wool, who left Parras, the head quarters of Gen. Wool, on the 10th inst., and passed through Saltillo, Monterey, and camargo, e are indebted for the subjoined information.
Gen. Wool has received orders from Gen. Taylor to take up his winter quarters at Parras, and had seized two thousand barrels of flour and several thousand bushels of wheat, and other government store. Parras is one hundred and fifteen miles directly west of Saltillo, and the position being farthest in advance, the first and second regiment of Indiana Volunteers had been ordered form Camargo to reinforce Gen. Wool. This would swell his command to about four thousand five hundred men. Gen Worth, at Saltillo, was also to be reinforced by four companies of Kentucky cavalry, ordered to Monterey which would bring his command up to about 1,700 men.
Gen. Patterson had received a private letter informing him of a rumor that Santa Anna was advancing upon Saltillo form San Luis Potosi, but Captain Yeatman attaches no credit to the rumor, as he traveled form Parras an Saltillo to Matamoras as rapidly as possible, and when he left those places he heard nothing whatever of it. The Generals in command at both points have cavalry parties scouting in the direction of San Luis Potosi, and the scouts of Gen. Wool are at least seventy-five miles form his camp, so that he would be likely to be apprised of any movement of Santa Anna as early as possible.
Gen. Taylor left Monterey on the 15th, with an escort of cavalry, for Victoria. Gen. Twiggs and Col. P. F. Smith, with their respective commands, were at Victoria, and previous to the departure of Gen. Taylor form Monterey, Gen. Quitman with his brigade had left for that point. Gen. Taylor, in a conversation with Captain Yeatman, expressed the opinion that it would be impossible to march upon San Luis Potosi form the northern extremity of his liens until the rainy season sets in in June next. The report that Santa Anna had cut off the water tanks between him and the American ports is not true, but the country is almost destitute of water unless during the rainy season, and in one part of the road there is even in that season a distance of ninety miles to be marched without the possibility of finding any.
Six American teamsters were killed recently at Ramos, a ranche of Canales, by a detachment of his rancheros.
Gen. Butler was in command at Monterey, with about two thousand men; Col. McKee, with six companies of the Kentucky regiment of cavalry, at Ceralvo; Capt. Willis, with two companies of the same regiment at Mier; and Gen. Marshall at Camargo, with about nine hundred men.
Col. McClung was fast recovering from his wounds.
A gentleman who arrived last night from Tampico, and left there on the 16th, states that a body of Mexican cavalry, estimated at about 7,000 had appeared in the vicinity of that place, and, coming within range of the artillery, were fired upon and driven off. The garrison there had been reinforced by the Alabama regiment of volunteers and the second regiment of artillery, and Gen. Patterson was to have marched from Matamoras, on the 23d, with Col. Thomas’s regiment of Tennessee cavalry, for that point. Gen Shields was in command at Tampico, but would be superseded by Gen. Patterson, when he arrived.
Great exertions have been making by Mexican officers to raise men in the small towns along the Rio Grande, and with some success.
Capt. Stone, with a detachment of seventy men, lately captured a party of two hundred Mexicans in a Ranche about thirty-seven miles up the San Juan, together with Capt. Cantova, by whom they had been recruited, and he and the men were taken as prisoners to Camargo. Fifty stand of arms, ammunition, etc., were taken at the same time. On the evening of the 16th a Mexican was taken by the guards at Camargo attempting to enter the powdered magazine, with a design, it is supposed, of blowing it up.
The troops under Gen. Wool, Capt. Yeatman also informs us, are in the very highest state f discipline, and regard their commander with respect and affection. Patras, he says, is a most delightful place. It is situated about seven miles west of the great San Luis Potosi road, and he terms it the vineyard of Mexico. The climate is unexceptionable, and the soil fertile; the grape is cultivated there, and the wine extracted from it is delicious.
Captain Yeatman is absent from the army on furlough.
The Fashion stopped off Matagorda Bar and Galveston—left about fifty vessels in Brazos harbor. A schooner sailed next day for Tampico with seventy-five volunteers, and one for Vera Cruz with Mexican prisoners; schooner Sea to sail same day for New Orleans. The steamer Eudora, lightening to go in over the bar. The Palo Alto was wrecked on the South breaker […] is full of water. The schooner Vanderbilt was wrecked fifteen miles north of the bar, on Padre Island. Steam schooner […] Washington and Pharsalia, with several other vessels, were in the offing, waiting to be lightened.
The fashion
brought up eighty discharged volunteers, with nineteen cabin passengers; also
the remains of young Allison of Nashville, who was shot a Monterey.
One of the Indiana volunteers died and was buried at sea thirteen miles north
of Brazos Island.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c1 720 words
THE GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE.—A few days ago we gave a synopsis of this able document, and regret that its length—the limits of our columns and the pressing matter before us—preclude its full publication in the Argus. But, we must be permitted to speak of its qualities; and whilst we pronounce it a bold and an able production—clothed in language plain, chaste and forcible, showing the author, not only to be a scholar and an orator, but a Statesman, it is nothing more than we anticipated.
True, we have no personal acquaintance with Gov. Smith; we have never seen him; but as a politician, he has long been familiar to us. We have met with those who have known him for many years, and heard those speak of him, who served with him in the councils of our State, who represented him as a bold, fearless, energetic politician, and an amiable man. And we have met with those who have denounced him as a demagogue;--we have heard him assailed by his political enemies with bitter denunciation, and we have heard him defended by his friends in terms most laudable.
Let any man, of any party, read this message; let him divest himself of party, and he will say, that William Smith is no demagogue, or that if he ever practiced it he has discarded it on the present occasion.
Statesman-like, he has looked to Virginia as she is—taken hold of her great interests, and presented them with a boldness and a force, peculiar to the man, and the statesman.
The political fame of William smith became familiar to every Virginian in the canvass of 1840. It not only spread through our own borders, but throughout the Union. When we heard of any great discussion, or pitched-battle, in the State, William smith was there. We heard from him in the North, the West, the East and the South, doing battle against the champions of Whiggery, and the renegades from the ranks of Democracy. And where was he heard from, that we did not hear of his doing signal service.
Who amongst us has forgotten the exciting times of 1840—when the returns of the Presidential election were coming in—when State after State had gone over to the Whigs, and all eyes were anxiously turned to Virginia, to see how she had braved the storm. Finally the news came that Virginia was safe—that the old Dominion had proved impregnable, and that the banner of Democracy still waved triumphantly over her borders. Who then received the credit for saving the State? ‘Twas William Smith. Many bold, fearless and eloquent champions had battled in the cause—the wreath was awarded to Wm. Smith. He had earned it, and no man doubted that he was entitled to it.
And now,
that offices of distinction, honor and trust are to be disposed of, by the
representatives of the democracy, is this faithful democrat—this distinguished
orator and statesman—this man of the people, who has labored so long, so zealously
and so effectually—to be thrown aside, and the mantle of honor bestowed upon
some one who in the hour of danger, was not found in the front battle?
Is the edict to go forth, that the ‘Laborer is no longer worthy of his hire?’
One thing we feel justified in saying; if the great mass of the democratic
party, in the good old common wealth, was consulted, seven-tenths would say
that William Smith should be United States Senator. The voice or the
wishes of the people should be obeyed. The district has on a former
occasion, through their representatives, honored him with a unanimous vote,
regardless of party; in doing so the wishes of the majority were carried out,
and we trust this district will do so again. We further hope to see
the democracy from a neighboring district coming up to his aid, as a small
debt of gratitude for services rendered in the trying time of 1840, when
Parkersburgh was made the great theatre of action in the West, and hundreds
were halting between two opinions, until William Smith, met the great Ajax
of whiggery, exposed their principles, and sustained the principles of the
democratic party in language too plain and too convicting to be long doubted.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c2 1256 words
THE MEXICAN WAR
We have always maintained it to be the true course of patriotism and sound policy to sink every party feeling, when the nation is involved in war. In such a crisis, we ought to look first to united and harmonious action to vindicate the national honor and secure a satisfactory peace—and then to a searching scrutiny into the causes of the war and to its conduct by those constitutionally empowered to carry it on. At the very first blast of the war bugle, the voice of party should be hushed, and every American rally around the national standard, without muttering discontent with the course of hits own government, the natural effect of which its to encourage the hopes of the enemy and prolong an evil, which all alike deplore.
Such was the policy which the Democratic party was anxious to see put into practice. They showed no mean spirit of jealously at the laurels won by Whig officers or men. Though the contrary has falsely been asserted by some of the more violent Whig press, no portion o the American people rejoiced more cordially than the Democrats at the gallant and brilliant deeds of Taylor, Worth, Kearney and other members of the Whig party. They rejoiced, because of the heroism or our troops redounded to the honor and welfare of the whole country, and because in cowing with laurels the brows of these brave commanders, Whigs though they be, they but brightened the good name and glory of our common country. We contend, then, that the Democrats are blameless, if the least bitterness of party feelings has been infused into the history of the war with Mexico. It is the Whig leaders who have broken the compromise of party feeling, and while the nation was in open war, have, in the face of the enemy, assailed the justice of the war and, to a great extent, virtually given “aid and comfort” to the enemy. On Saturday morning we received the Whig Raleigh Register, which contains a long and virulent assault upon the Democratic party. The writer charges the Administration with being “destructives,” who have put in practice the “most daring Executive usurpations, and the most wanton contempt of the Constitution.” He raises his arm against this “unhallowed war sought after and begun by that Hydra-headed monstrosity, MODERN DEMOCRACY.” But we extract a few sentences in full, to show the spirit of the writer:
“Who can foretell where our glorious stars and stripes, which were, at the command of a Republican Despot, first borne on to conquest in battle and in blood, are eventually destined to halt? Now that the impetus has been given to a War of Conquest, whose hand so powerful as to quell the popular impulse and subdue that love of war and carnage which from age to age seems to be hereditary in our race? Should no successful champion of Mexican Freedom and Independence rise and tell the Northern hive “thus far, and no farther, shall ye come,” our dominion, indeed, may extend over he whole North American Continent—but then is the hour for our own fail. Men upon the St. John or Penobscot, have no interest in common with those upon the Rio Grande! Union would be lost—the machinery of our elective system would be thoroughly and irreparably destroyed by the immense numbers of our disfranchised citizens in the Army—Military usurpers would spring up, and lay their iron hands upon and subvert our civil liberties—secession would follow secession […] the general come […] to demonstrate the IMPRACTICABILITY OF A REPUBLIC, AND PAVE THE WAY FOR THE RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF MONARCHY. Such is the inevitable tendency of the in definitive warfare we are waging. Heaven grant us a speedy peace—Peace, at whatever cost—so that honor be preserved, and the shadow, even, of our mutilated Constitution allowed to remain. The past year has been the first that has seen our Republic following the destructive example of the primitive Commonwealths of Europe, in their suicidal policy of territorial aggression the expense of their neighbors.”
In all soberness, we ask our readers, if the above impassioned language of a North Carolina Whig would not better appear in a Mexican journal, as a palliation of all the outrages of that imbecile and treacherous nation? What Mexican editor could employ stronger terms in regard to our people, than this American (?) writer, who calls the President a “despot,” slanders his fellow-citizens as being moved by the “love of war and carnage” alone, and boldly predicts the fall of our glorious Republic through the corruption of her free citizens and the usurpation of her military officers, to be succeeded by “anarchy” and the “re-establishment of monarchy ?” Could Mexico desire a more earnest “advocate” of her cause? Does not such an American truly give “aid and comfort” to the enemy?
But at our own doors we have evidence tending strongly in the same direction. In Friday’s Whig we find the following “extract of a letter from the country,” which, though not published with an editorial endorsement, is prominently sent forth to the world, without one word of censure or disapprobation from the Editor, who virtually endorses its contents, by publishing it in its present form. We ask our readers to observe the passages which we have Italicized, and to say whether they do not deserve the indignant rebuke of the people. Is it wise, proper or patriotic in an American citizen to denounce the war in which we are engaged, an into which we have been forced, as a “disgraceful conceit,” as a war of “plunder and conquest;” to invoke sympathy for our deadly and treacherous enemy, as for “a feeble and distracted neighbor”—and to publish to the world that the writer would refuse to raise his hand for the honor and interests of his country, at the same time that he sneers at the Democrats not enlisting for the war? But it is sufficient to call attention to the language without a single comment. It speaks its own condemnation fully
“I know not how it is in other parts, but hereabouts I have not seen or heard of a Democrat enlisting for the Mexican war. They are very boisterous in their glorifications of that disgraceful contest, and in their denunciations of all who question its wisdom or its policy;--but judging by their actions, they seem to have no idea of encountering its hazards and sharing its glories in person. I think they are the men, however, whose peculiar duty it is to fight these battles. Their President originated the war, without authority of law of constitution, when there was no necessity for it—when national honor did not require it, and when every dictate of humanity and religion and every sentiment of magnanimity forbade it. For a republic to wage a war of plunder and conquest—and that too against a feeble and distracted neighbor!—let the valor of Polk and his rampant supporters fight it out—I will none of it—for I believe it a conflict in which no true honor is to be achieved and no national good acquired.”
So much for the Whig clamor against the Democrats for speaking their true sentiments in regard to the partisan conduct of Whig leaders.
To-morrow
we shall recur to the Editorials and Communications in the Whig, which do
such gross injustice to the Democrats of Virginia, so far as the volunteering
for Mexican War is concerned.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c3 135 words
The Battalion of Volunteers, under the command of Capt. Ro. G. Scott, jr., reached Old Point on Sunday night, in the Curtis Peck. We learn that nearly every man was present at the roll-call on Sunday morning—a few only being unprepared for the trip.
We are pained
to hear that—McNulty, one of Capt. Carrington’s company, was accidentally
drowned at City Point, when the boat stopped to fake in the Petersburg company
of Capt. Archer. It seems that the unfortunate man with a brother volunteer,
John Bull English, were in the small boat of the steamer, which was suspended
at her side, rocking themselves in sport, and in the violence of the vibration
were both thrown into the river. One was saved, but the other lost,
in spite of every exertion to rescue him.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c3 55 words
The case
of Edgar Barziza, a member of Capt. Scott’s company of Volunteers, charged
with the “murder,” by stabbing, of William Sharp, on the night of the 28th
December, came up before Mayor. Lambert yesterday; but was postponed
till to-day, in the absence of the witness. Robert G. Scott Esq. is
counsel for the accused.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 5, 1847 RE47v43n72p1c3 243 words
MORE VOLUNTEERS.
We are glad to hear that the Executive have accepted the services of Captain John P. Young’s company from Portsmouth.
The second company from Petersburg, Captain William M. Robinson, will be completed in a few days, and will no doubt be accepted.
The Kanawha Republican fears a failure to raise a company of volunteers in that Senatorial district, from the want of some person “of the right qualifications to go ahead in the business.” It is too late now, it thinks, the requisite number from the State having offered their services. The Kanawha Republican speaks as follows of the laudable patriotism of two citizens of Kanawha:
“Two noble young men, Mr. B.D. Fry and J. L. Kempter, members of the Kanawha bar, burning for distinction on the battlefield, left this place week before last to join one of the companies in Richmond. We regret that they had not remained here a little longer; they might have raised a company and been placed in its command, to which their qualifications so eminently entitle them.”
We understand
that these two young men, who have received a thorough military education,
were about to enroll as privates in a company here; but, at the instance
of some of our citizens who were struck with their manly conduct and fine
qualities, they proceeded to Washington, with a view to procuring commissions
in the new regiments of the army probably to be raised. We wish them
success.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c4 1556 words
MORE “AID AND COMFORT,”
The Hagerstown News contains the following article:
Thompson Mason, Esq., late a citizen of this place, and a member of the Hagerstown Bar, has, as we learn from the papers, join the Virginia regiment of Volunteers. Alas! That talent such as his should be prostituted to the wickedness of war! Even should he come back crowned with laurels, a mind so sensitive, cultivated and discriminating as his, will not fail, in old age, to reproach him with the wrongs and miseries he now, by example, is helping to fasten upon the world, by giving his sanction to legalized murder. How much more glorious would it be, were those talents devoted to the cause of humanity: to the putting of the human family upon the railway of advancement—instead of helping to sink the world in the darkness of barbarous heathenism. We wish him a safe return and a peaceful mind in the future.”
It is because the Democratic press expose such enormities in our public journals, that they are assailed by the Whigs as truckling to Executive power, as aiming a blow at the freedom of speech and of the press, and as putting in practice the odious doctrine, “that the King can do no wrong.” Will the most rigid stickler for the liberty of the press fail to condemn such mischievous and factious views as the above? Every newspaper is supposed to exert a certain influence, though in a limited sphere. Is it now, then, plain to the dullest intellect, that such articles as the above are calculated to throw odium upon the war in which we are engaged, and which we are bound to fight out, if we desire to secure peace and an honorable reparation for the wrongs done us by Mexico? The Editor pays a just tribute to the talents and to the cultivated and discriminating mind of Mr. Mason, who has engaged in the glorious service of his country—and yet, in the same breath, in its party madness, presents’ him as “giving his sanction to legalized murder,” and as “prostituted to the wickedness of war.” Do not such articles tend to give “aid and comfort” to the enemy, in raising the impression on the Mexican Government, that a large party in this country is bitterly opposed to the war, and would rejoice to see our army withdrawn, to the dishonor and disgrace of the nation? And is note the Democratic press fully justified in holding up to public indignation such sentiments, whether they come from leading men or public journals? Can any patriot observe, with complacency, the extraordinary course of Mr. McGaughey, a Whig member from Indiana? After characterizing, as “an intruder in this House,” Col. Baker, the Whig member from Illinois, whose “statements he did nor regard much,” Mr. McG. Denounced the war as “a Presidential war altogether,” and as “one only of the fruits of Texas annexation,” and he “asked no share in the glory of such a war:”
“Believing, then, that the war was wholly wrong, he would not vote for any additional appropriations, except to settle up the debts already incurred. Believing that the shortest way to attain peace was to retire, he would vote against the bill which proposed to increase the army. It was not at all necessary for the interests and honor o the country to prosecute the war. If it were a holy and just war, its history would redound to the national glory. But it was far otherwise in this case, and the retrospection would be anything but honorable or gratifying. It was said that here were Whigs who were in favor of the war. He did not belong to them; and, if that was true, there must be more classes of Whigs than he knew of, and Whiggery had come to be as chameleon-like as Democracy”
What is all this but rendering “aid and comfort” to the enemy? And yet, according to Whig doctrine, it is a crying usurpation to expose such factious and treacherous views uttered in a time of war.
Mr. Own of Indiana followed in a masterly, eloquent and far-searching vindication of the justice of the war. We have no room for his conclusive argument, which goes to the very marrow of the question. We cannot, however, forbear from laying before our readdress his thrilling peroration. It is full of patriotic sentiment, sound advice, and burning sarcasm upon those who, for miserable party capital, openly encourage our treacherous foes:
“And now, in conclusion, will gentlemen on the other side of the House suffer me to address to them a few not unfriendly words. That which is spoken in this hall remains not here. It is published to the world. It goes to our enemies as well as to our friends. When members of an American Congress assert that the war in which their country is engaged is unholy, unrighteous, damnable; the President’s war, who ought to be arraigned a a usurper for making it; every word they speak may be read—in all human probability is read, and with avidity—in the national palace of Mexico. When members of an American Congress declare that Mexicans, or their manly resistance in such a war, are to be honored and applauded, they speak, as it were, to the very men they praise and encourage; even in the ears of Santa Anna and his advisers.—Words that are strengthen the hands and cheer the hearts for the public enemy should be well weighed, before they are uttered. I condemn no man, who speaks, from the depths of his heart, his honest thought. It is his right; and not the less his right, because of the consequence, be that what it will. If those who put Mexico in the right and their county and her President in the wrong, speak as they are prompted by the love of truth and justice alone, their language, no matter whom it may aid and comfort, shall pass unreproved by me. But if, with this indignant zeal for justice to Mexico there mingle one motive less pure than truth, one lurking thought of party profit in an approaching contest at home, how stands the matter then? Not national treasure and national honor only, human lives are at stake in their war. They who drag it, as an element of advantage, into the arena of party strife, play with human lives! If any man, with even a glancing thought in his mind towards the Presidential succession, use words, put forth arguments, of which the tendency is to nerve the arm of eth enemy, and thus protract the war, he sacrifices, on the prostituted alter of party, his country’s treasure, honor, well being—yes! And the blood of her bravest sons. And such a man, thus placing obstacles in the way of negotiation, thus retarding an honorable peace, is the enemy alike of his country and of civilization. The spirit of war is fast departing from the earth. One feels, in these modern days, when engaged even in the most justifiable war, as may some participant in a disreputable brawl, reluctantly dragged into it by chance and bad neighborhood. The necessity of the thing cannot blind one’s eyes to its barbarism. A man, or a nation, meriting to be called civilized, seeks the first pause in the combat, to hasten its termination. But what chance of terminating he war while the enemy is daily fed with hopes, that, divided in feeling and distracted in council, we cannot, for any length of time, conduct military operations with vigor, or prosecute them with success? To dispose Mexico to peace, she must see us united, harmonious, conscious of the justice of our cause, ready to put forth all our strength. Then, and thus, may she be brought to terms. Then, and thus, may this appeal to arms, the last, I trust, in which American shall ever be forced to engage, come to a close, and the period at last arrive, when we may turn our swords into ploughshares, and study war no more.”
But to return
to Mr. Mason, who is now in this city, a member of Capt. Alburtis’ fine company
of Berkeley Volunteers. The Hagerstown News speaks in just and proper
terms of Mr. M.’s excellent personal qualities—but, at the same time, does
him great injustice, in referring to the causes which should affect his peace
of mind. We can assure the News that Mr. M.’s conscience is entirely
at ease, in regard to the war in which he is about to engage. Like
a true patriot, he feels that his country has received wrongs at the hands
of Mexico, which deserve to be avenged. Under such conviction he has
given up his home and friends, and has enlisted in the ranks of the country’s
defenders. In such a cause can any true American suffer the least shadow
to cloud his conscience? On the contrary, what more ennobling thought
can animate a patriot, than to risk his all for his native land? Mr.
M’s. heart is in the right place, and we shall be much mistaken if he does
not do his whole duty. At all events, his mind will be “peaceful,” because
he feels that he is engaged in a glorious cause.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c5 394 words
DEATH OF A GREAT MAN
The whole country mourns the untimely decease, in his brigade camp at Monterey, on the 2nd Dec., of Brigadier General Thomas L. Hamer, of Ohio—the profound lawyer; the eloquent and sound statesman; the civil, brave, and generous soldier, and the amiable and philanthropic citizen. He was, perhaps, the first man in Ohio, having been covered with honors by that State, from an early age. At the recent State election, Gen. Hamer was elected to the next Congress, almost without opposition; having been nominated for that office by the enthusiastic vote of a Democratic Convention. In the beautiful language of the Union, “As a man his career has been brief; but, limited as it has been, death kindly withheld his hand until the manly brow of the gallant Hamer wore a wreath of laurel, plucked by his won brave arm, in the midst of fire, carnage, groans, and death, in the bloody streets of Monterey!!”
As proof of the firm hold which he had upon the affections of his State, we quote the following tribute, unanimously adopted by the Legislature of Ohio, on the 31st. ult:
Whereas, the mournful intelligence has reached us that Gen. Thomas L. Hamer, the accomplished civilian and devoted patriot is no more: therefore,
Resolved by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That in the death of Gen. Hamer, our State has lost a favorite son, the United States a useful citizen and officer, and mankind at large a benefactor. Therefore,
Resolved, That the members of this General Assembly deeply sympathize with the bereaved widow and children of the deceased, in their grievous affliction.
Resolved, That the Speakers of the two Houses procure a suitable person to pronounce a eulogy upon the life and character and public services of the deceased, before the members of this General Assembly and the citizens generally, at some convenient season to be fixed by themselves.
Resolved, That the body of the deceased be brought from Mexico and interred in the soil of Ohio, at the expense of the State.
Let us now
turn to the camp in Mexico, and we see that there also the death of General
Hamer produced intense feeling, and that the most touching honors were paid
to his memory. From a letter in the New Orleans Delta, we extract the
following interesting particulars:
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c5 330 words
Monterey, Mexico, Dec. 10, 1846
Dear Sir: Until to-day I had nothing to communicate of interest. On the 2d instant, the prisoners belonging to Colonel Hays’ regiment, (Messrs. Lyons and Tufts,) captured at China, arrived from San Luis de Potosi. They informed me that Santa Anna had thirty three thousand men embodied at that place, undergoing the strictest discipline, and were throwing up a breastwork around the entire town, with a wide ditch on the outside, DIFFERING SOMEWHAT FROM THE CAMARGO FORTIFICATIONS—that the artillery of this army were few, but the cavalry amounted to eight thousand, all fully imbued with GREAT VALOR AND PATRIOTISM, and more than ready and willing to drive the BOLD AND DARING INVADERS BEYOND THE SABINE, and some even thought that they MIGHT MARCH TO WASHINGTON CITY. These gentlemen left San Luis on the 10th November.
On the day previous an express courier arrived form Mexico, giving the information of the revolt of that city and State, and that on the day they left, Santa Anna had detached seven Regiments of the line to quell it. Mr. Lyons also told me that he saw 47 of our deserters at San Luis, in a most deplorable condition. Santa Anna would have nothing to do with them, and had ordered them to his rear—to the province of Guadalaxara. Many of these men had been enticed away under the promise of commissions in the army, and bounties. When in San Luis they were raged, suffering for common wants, and destitute of every comfort; they bitterly repented their false, dishonorable step in deserting the American standard, and would readily return with any sacrifice.
Gen. Taylor
is making preparations to break up his camp here; next week he moves with
all the regulars and apart of the volunteers, leaving Gen. Butler in command;
destination as yet unknown—but of his I’ll tell you next week. I enclose
you Gen. Taylor’s order in relation to the death of Gen. Hamer:
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c5 319 words
Headquarters Army of Occupation,
Camp near Monterey, Dec. 3d, 1846.
With feelings of profound sorrow, the commanding General announces to the troops the decease of Brig. Gen. T. L. Hamer, of the Volunteer service, who expired last evening, after the short but violent illness.
The ability and judgement displayed by the deceased General in the exercise of his military command, and the sterling qualities which marked his private character, endeared him justly to the army and to his many personal friends.
By the army in the field, and by the citizens of his own State, his loss will be severely felt; to those connected with him by closer ties, it will be irreparable.
The deceased will be interred at 10 o’clock, A. M., to-morrow, with the honors due to his rank. Brig. Gen. Quitman, commanding the Volunteer Division, will conduct the funeral ceremonies, and command the escort, to be composed of one regiment of Volunteer Infantry, one company of Cavalry, and two pieces of Artillery. The Cavalry and Artillery of the escort will be designated by Brig. Gen. Twiggs from his Division, and will report to Gen. Quitman at 9 o’clock to-morrow.
All officers off duty are respectfully invited to attend the funeral, from the Head Quarters of the Kentucky and Ohio Brigade.
By order of Maj. Gen. Taylor.
W.W. S. BLISS, Ass’t Adj. Gen.
The funeral
of Gen. Hamer was magnificent and imposing. The escort was composed
of a Kentucky Regiment of Volunteers, under command of Maj. Shepherd; then
a company of Dragoons, under Capt. Graham; then a section of Light Artillery,
commanded by Lieut. Thomas, followed by the corpse and pall bearers; then
the General’s horse and Aid-de-Camp, Lieut. Hooker, followed by the General’s
Brigade, with side arms; then officers of the Volunteers and of the Army on
foot; then the mounted officers of the Army. The whole procession must
have reached, in length, near a mile.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c5 879 words
The Richmond Whig has replied to our strictures upon its course towards the Tenth Legion. We will not dispute about the epithets we have applied to its conduct. We deem it unnecessary to resort to the lexicons of our mutual language in order to be able to define our several positions. The Whig appears to be willing to admit that it did not intend to defame or to slander the patriotism of the Tenth Legion; and, therefore, we say let it pass as to that. Let it be known to the State, and let the people of the Tenth Legion themselves understand, that the Richmond Whig does not intend to defame or slander them in any thing it has said!
But, excuse it for everything like defamation and slander, and libel, there remains yet a charge for which it must answer. When, in time of war, a journal undertakes to array sections and parties against each other, the reprehensions of a patriotic community must fall upon it. At present, men of all parties, and some from all sections, are rushing to the standard of their country; the general thought seems to be, who can first reach the battle field; still, the Whig casts about to examine faces, to see who is and who is not in the Virginia Regiment; and it endeavors, out of whatever it may glean, to make capital for the party in Virginia.
It is like the celebrated character portrayed by Patrick Henry, (John Hook,) who, in the midst of a revolutionary struggle for liberty, cried out, “Beef, beef, beef,” whilst the whole country was desirous of avenging this wrongs upon a foreign enemy. When the desire of the community is to have the regiment immediately completed and installed in honorable service, the Whig, although it participates in this desire, endeavors to impress the public with belief that the strongholds of the Democratic party have been derelict to duty, and have not contributed what patriotism required.
The entire logic of the Whig is intended to show that this is a most unjust, a most absurd war, made by the President, without the co-operation of the nation; but, nevertheless, one which the Whigs (so far as Virginia is concerned) mainly have to fight out. The magnanimous Whigs have to do the fighting of the country, whilst the Locos—especially the Tenth Legion, which did so much to elect Mr. Polk, and therefore “ought to fight out this war”—stood back and refuse to volunteer! Most modest assumption!
We have said before, that we did not desire to think of the regiment in any party aspect. We had hoped to look upon them all as Virginians, springing form a common mother, and animated by a common object. We wished, as we known many of our Whig friends did, that party feeling should be extinguished. We were glad to coincide in the propriety of the sentiment uttered by Col. Baker, of Illinois, that there should be no party feeling in the army. But it seems we are to be disappointed in this so far as our own regiment is concerned. The Whig is determined to signalize, if not to stigmatize, those who do not appear.
Whilst the Whig engages itself so busily in taunting Democratic communities with not furnishing their proper quotas for the war, it might as well recollect that the best position in the regiment are held by Whigs. Both the Colonel and the Major (who are indebted to the liberality of a Democratic Governor and Council for their appointments) are Whigs. So is the Adjutant. The “fat offices’ are nearly all held by men of that party. Not so, however, in the ranks. Go there, and Democrats will be found, plentiful as the Whig itself can desire. The Berkely company, coming from a country where the Whigs have a preponderating influence, is composed almost entirely of democrats. We have heard it said that there are but five Whigs in it. The Augusta company, for which so much admiration has been expressed, and about which the Whig has boasted so much, contains, we learn, a majority of Democrats.
Much as has
been said about h e Whig city of Richmond having furnished three companies,
we venture to say (whilst we do not in any manner disparage her patriotism)
that she has not furnished fifty men. The rendezvous is here, and the
enrollments have been made here; but the bone and sinew came from the country. The same thing is true of all the other companies formed in towns, of which
the Whig and its correspondents boast so much. And as to the Tenth Legion,
the latest accounts inform us that has raised two companies, without the
important aid of large towns and thickly settled population, has raised two
companies, without the important aid of large towns and thickly settled population,
in which to recruit. The people of that section, and the Democracy
generally, will understand the game the Whig is playing. It pursues
now that same course which it pursued when it heralded forth the census statistics
on the subject of education, in order to show that the Tenth Legion was enveloped
in darkness. It is, however, destined now, as then, to fail in its
object.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c6 39 words
We are gratified
to announce, that the Common Council last evening voted eight Swords, (to
cost $30 each;) one to each of the officers of the two Richmond companies
of Volunteers, under the command of Capts. Scott and Carrington.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p1c7 546 words
In relation to the “General Officer” whose appointment the President recommends in his message on Monday, the Union makes the following remarks. Upon the propriety of such a proposition, we suspect there will be some difference of opinion. We observe that some of he Whigs are in favor of the plan. The Washington correspondent of the Baltimore Patriot writes:
“Unless something of the kind is done, many sensible men here, and some of them officers of the army, think the war will last two years longer; and, if so, that it will be hard work to find the troops as well as the money to carry it on successfully; for the volunteers, they say, will never, can never be induced to stay there through another summer campaign, and it will be hard, when they return to their homes, to get others to take their places. The fact is, the war can only be ended by the annihilation of the Mexican army. This must be done, and the quicker the better.”
Here are the Union’s comments:
“The President makes another suggestion which is calculated to command the most respectful attention. He refers to the miscellaneous composition of our forces now in the field, made up a they are of regulars and of numerous volunteers; and he recommends a more efficient organization of our army by placing at their head a general officer, who, or course, may be acquainted with the qualities of both species of forces, and calculated to give the combination the greatest degree of efficiency. We have no doubt the proposition will be duly and deliberately weighed, without regard to individuals, an with a dingle eye to the more efficient and successful organization for the whole army. The President regards this appointment as only provisional—to continue only during the war, and to be dispensed with upon the reduction of the army to a peace establishment.
The message presses early action upon Congress in carrying out these suggestions. Actuated by a desire to prosecute the war with the greatest vigor, and to obtain a prompt and honorable peace, he desires Congress to act a s soon as possible, “before the present favorable season for military operations shall have passé away.” Action is necessary here. Action is necessary in Mexico. Santa Anna has repeated, in his last letter to Gen. Taylor, his insolent demand for us to withdraw all our troops from Mexico, and all our squadrons from her waters. And if an experienced statesman, who has studied the Mexican character, be correct in telling us to-day, that the Congress of Mexico may repeat this demand, as preliminary to any negotiation for peace, we ought to put all our armor on, meet the crisis, and strike boldly for peace.”
The above
should have appeared yesterday.—By yesterday’s mail we learned that in House,
on Tuesday, a report from the Committee of Military Affairs was agreed to,
asking to be discharged form that portion of the President’s message recommending
the appointment of the “General Officer.” Many of the papers speak of this
action as sealing the fate of the proposition in the House. It is further
said that only one of the nine members of the Committee was in favor of the
measure.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p2c1 272 words
DESPATCH OF THE PUBLIC BUISINESS—NAVY DEPARTMENT,--In Nov. last (says the N.Y. Evening Post,) the government had occasion to dispatch two officers, express, to the Pacific. Col. Mason, of the first Regiment of U.S. Dragoons, and Lieut. Watson, of the Navy, were designated for this duty. The Navy Agent of this port was required to procure a fast sailing vessel and dispatch her with these officers to Chagres. On Saturday evening, November 7th, the brig Benjamin L. Swan was chartered. The same night, at midnight, Col. Mason arrived. Sunday intervening, nothing could be done till Monday A. M. Col. Mason had his three years’ outfit to procure—clothing, arms, and equipments of all kinds—all his private wardrobe and equipments at St. Luis.
The brig
had her crew to ship, her stores and ballast to be taken in, and clearance
to make. On Tuesday at 3 P.M General Vetmore, the Navy Agent, reported
her ready for sea. At 5 o’clock the passengers were on board, and the
steamer took the brig in tow; thus in one day and a half, during the whole
of which time the weather was bad, the expedition was prepared for sea. The brig was anchored on Tuesday night under the bar; and left the next morning
wind favorable. In thirteen days she entered the port of Chagres, and
in fifteen from the day the officers left New York, they were on the shores
of the Pacific. If fortunate in finding a conveyance up the coast from
Panama, they are now at San Francisco. An instance of greater dispatch
has rarely been known in any similar undertaking.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p2c2 605 words
A MODERN JOAN D’ARC
Our readers, we know, will thank us for devoting so much space to the simple but beautiful and thrilling narrative of Mrs. Chase, the heroic wife of our consul at Tampico. Were not the facts substantiated by history, we might look up on the narrative as a stirring piece of romance. But this case corroborates the saying that “truth is stranger than fiction.” It has been a matter of wonder why the Mexicans, without apparent reason, evacuated a town which was so strongly defended as Tampico. The mystery we now find solved by the fortitude, courage, perseverance and remarkable diplomacy of a woman. But for her devices and cool self-possession, the important post of Tampico could not have been taken without a loss of American life. Through the skill and courage of this brave, generous woman, the town fell into our possession without a blow.
In many respects there is a striking parallel between Mrs. Chase and the famous “Maid of Orleans.” In fearless perseverance and high spirited intrepidity of soul, they much resemble one another. But, in many particulars, the parallel does not run. The latter filled the humble situation of maid in the inn of her native village; and her nerves had become strengthened and her frame hardened by the active duties of her life, and especially by the management of horses, which she rode with grace and ease. In her eyes, moreover, the peculiar character of Charles “the Victorious,” who was so strongly inclined to friend ship and affection, naturally rendered him the hero of that sex whose generous minds place little bounds to their enthusiasm. Above all, she mistook the impulses of passion for heavenly inspiration, and, declared that she had seen visions and heard voices exhorting her to re-establish the throne of France.
Mrs. Chase, on the other hand, is a lady delicately brought up and educated in the accomplishments which soften he character. She was inspired by no supernatural visions, but was animated to her fearless deeds by her love of country and her contempt and disgust for the faithless Mexicans.
Joan d’Arc was surrounded by her friends in the fortified city of Orleans, who encouraged and cheered her on. Armed cap a pic and mounted on horseback, she was triumphantly presented to the people as the messenger of Heaven, and, carrying in her hand a consecrated banner, sallied forth against the English assailants. In their engagement he was wounded by an arrow in the neck.
Mrs. Chase was alone in the midst of her enemies, and yet she, too; raised the ‘consecrated’ start-spangled banner of her country, and hailed the American forces. Though closely watched by the subtle Mexicans and threatened by them in various ways, she eluded their designs and succeeded in placing an important town in the hands of the Americans.
The death of Joan d’Arc was the result of the cruel, treacherous conduct of those whom she had so heroically served. Mrs. Chase yet lives to receive the praise and honors from a grateful country. What more fitting tribute to the gallant deeds of this noble woman, man that Congress should place in one of the niches of the Capitol some representation of this lady standing by the American colors, in defiance of the hostile population of Tampico!
But we shall not detain our readers from the interesting narrative. Much as we all respect and idolize the softer sex, our appreciation of the rare merits of this generous woman must serve to heighten our admiration and love for these angels in human form: [MLD]
“MY ESTEEMED FRIEND: A great change has come o’er the spirit of my dream – at least within the last month – so that I almost doubt the evidence of my own senses, we having at this moment some twenty sail of vessels in the river Panuco – steamers passing and repassing, the sight of which pays me, in part, for my six months’ solitude and suffering. I am not a believer in purgatory, but I think I have passed through that ordeal by residing in an enemy’s country alone; not only hostile in feeling, but subtle and unprincipled.
“My dear friend, I scarcely know how to reply to your friendly solicitude towards me and mine especially. In beginning my imperfect narrative, one great misfortune seems to accompany me – my pen can never keep pace with my feelings. You will have been aware of Mr. Chase’s expulsion, agreeably to the decree of the 12th of May last, and in compliance with the act he had only twenty four hours’ notice to embark, or eight days to retire twenty leagues into the interior. He prudently chose the former, and embarked forthwith on board of the St. Mary’s the blockading vessel off the bar of Tampico, leaving some eighty thousand dollars in his store with no other protection than such as I could afford, and two clerks, one of whom was a Mexican; and he, in accordance with the true spirit of Mexican chivalry, commenced robbing me. In fact my annoyances were so numerous that I cannot give you them in detail, but merely sketch an outline, knowing the sympathy you feel for my perilous position in this new drama. In the nest place, Inez de Primera Instancia, by order of the commanding general, passed me a notice that my privileges ceased as the wife of the American consul, and my store must be closed. I replied to him in the most decisive manner, that I was not only his wife, but also his constituted agent – in addition to this I was a British subject, and, as such, neither the judge nor the general could deprive me of my natural rights, as the English law admitted of no anenation – stating that any infraction on it prerogative would be hastily chastized by that government; and in confirmation of my assertion, referred the learned Inez to the law of nations.
Thus defeated and exasperated, I was not allowed to send an open note to my husband, then off the bar. But, thank God, who ‘tempers the wind to the shorn lamb,’ He directed me, and I concerted a plan which again defeated their hostile purpose, and sent by strategem nine letters in eight weeks, and through the same means received replies. But those things were daily making inroads upon my health and spirits, which I most carefully concealed from my good husband, knowing the intensity of his feelings for his government, and particularly for my welfare.
“I, in the meantime, drew a plan of the city and river, and had it sent to Com. Conner and Captain M’Cluney of the John Adams, with a correct description of all the forts, the number of guns, a list of the troops and how they were posted, and every political movement, so that through Mr. Chase and his agent, they knew every important movement in this section of the country.
“They abused and insulted the American name and nation to such an extent that it often caused me to retire and pray God for the day of retribution – With the exception of my faithful Amelia, I had but little human sympathy, as all the English influence was against our national cause.
“I am, perhaps, a little prosy, but I well know the sensitive heart to whom these lines are addressed, and so continue. I daily watched, not very christian-like, for the moment of retaliation, hoping to be able although alone in the combat, to “square accounts” with my fierce debtors, and, if possible, place myself and party on the credit side of the entangled account.
“Santa Anna recommended to the government of Mexico the confiscation of all American property in order to carry on the war, and that all Americans residing in this country should be make prisoners of war, as a fatal stroke of those usurping pirates – the gentle name generally applied to them – and that this garrison should be reinforced with some 3,000 more troops. When I read this article in one of the flaming periodicals, it was rather grating to me in my isolated condition. I determined, however, upon the old Roman motto –
‘Who would be free, himself must strike the blow,’ or in other words, my case was at best helpless, and now even desperate, and required a desperate remedy.
“Two spies came daily to my house, always under the guise of friendship; and on one occasion, one of the wretches believe that I was possessed of items concerning American movements, I represented him that 30,000 troops were to join Gen. Taylor at Matamoros, 30,000 more had been despatched to capture San Juan, &c., and closed with remarking that I would be compelled to close my house within a day or two as a force of 25 to 30,000 troops was coming against this place – which bit of romance so frightened my poor Amelia, that she thought the general here would call me to account for it.
“Next day I had a call from the captain of the port who wished to know the truth, and inquired if Mr. Chase had written to me to that effect; and soon after some other of the high functionaries discovered me to be an important character, in their daily rounds. In a conversation with the father in law of the general, I recommended to him an early retreat, as the wisest course to be taken; and that same night a private post was despatched to San Luis Potosi upon the strength of the information so received, through me; the town of Tampico was ordered to be vacated on the appearance of this large force off the bar; scouts were sent in every direction, to procure muleteers, for the conveyance of property to the interior; and two schooner loads were shipped to the city of Panuco; six hundred stand of arms were sunk, the cannons were removed from the fort, and the troops evacuated the place. I then despatched to Com. Connor an account of the state of things, and in triplicate to Havana, under different covers to my husband, urging his return forthwith. These were sent by an agent, who supposed them mere letter conveying a wish to my husband to meet me at Vera Cruz, to accompany me to Havana. I spent a restless night and morning, but it has certainly brought its reward. My letter to the commodore was dated October 23d; he received it October 27th, and immediately called a meeting of his senior officers and laid my despatch before them. It had due weight. Provisions were brought from Point Isabel and distributed among the squadron, and on the morning of the 13th have in sight, twelve sail off the bay of Tampico. I was so confident of the coming of the squadron, that in anticipation of their coming, I had a flag staff made one week previous, and had it erected upon the house-top, in order to raise the first American flag hoisted as a right over Tampico. On my first sight of the fleet, my pent up feelings gave way and I wept as a child for joy, seeing that God had brought deliverance to the captives, and in anticipation of soon seeing the object of my affection, and also in gratitude to Him who is mighty to save, and that my feeble efforts had wrought so strange in our national welfare.
Here I must pause, and say I cannot pretend to describe my feelings at that time. Fortitude seemed to give way, and in the midst of this emotion, I again saw the squadron nearing to the bar, the boats managed and the line passing, (they standing their own pilots over their intricate passage.) and broad pennant flying at two mast heads – the blue and red. My faithful Amelia and myself ran to Mr. Chase’s office, and in solitude offered up a prayer, then pulled the flag down and alone rushed to the house-top. I carried it up and tied it on the line with my own hands, and we – Amelia, myself, and Mr. Uder – hoisted it, myself giving the first pull. Thus we defied the whole town of Tampico. I sent for some Americans, but not one possessed courage or national spirit enough to lend a hand.
In thirty minutes the Ayuntamiento called upon me and ordered me to haul it down. I replied it was raised as a right of protection. They said I had no such right as I rejoined that that it was a matter of opinion in which we could not agree. They said it was a burlesque upon their nation – a lady taking the city – and what would the supreme government of Mexico say? I replied very laconically, ‘Quien sabe!’ and offered them wine under the new banner. They threatened the house. I ran to its top, and asked Mr. Uder if he would stand by me. He replied, “Yes.” “Then,” said I, “”the flag must remain, or all of us sent over the house-top, as I shall never pull it down or suffer any Mexican to sully it by his touch.” I had been robbed, - my store entered and pillaged of more than two thousand dollars, in the dead of the night; and when the regiment from Puebla entered this city, they entered my store and carried off my goods, and I had no redress and still less sympathy; and although alone, the God of the just was my captain general, and I had nothing to fear from all Mexico. And now the house of redemption was at hand. I expected they would either fire upon or storm the house. I rested with my right arm round the flag staff, the banner waving in majestic beauty, and the squadron nearing the city, where they saw the flat. It was like lightning to pilgrims to know from whence it came, but soon the officers saw two female forms standing by it, and gave three cheers in front of the city, and then came to my house, which had been now nearly six months as if proscribed by some crime or plague, and my fault was that o being the wife of an American. Commodore Perry and the municipal authorities came to my house on arrival, also Commodore Conner. My despatches have been sent to the state department, and I have letters of thanks from the officers commanding, who have changed the name of Fort Libertad to Fort Ann, in compliment to me. They arrived on the 16th. Forty eight hours after came Mr. Chase, crowning all my happiness.
“You will no doubt have heard part of my story previous to this reaching you, knowing the interest you feel; and this unlimited friendship evinced by you, I thus have taken the liberty to give as far as practicable in detail, and have extended my account far beyond my intention, and at the same time trusting that you will give at least a reading to this imperfect scroll, and may never feel the pangs of mental affliction, as felt by me.
“You very kindly inquire if the existing war has injured us in a pecuntary point? It has very materially, but that loss has not in the least allowed my spirits to flag. My trust is in Him, who can withhold and best. We have suffered in mind, in person and pocket, but with feelings of interest toward our beloved country and duty to the cause, and like the widow I was writing to contribute my might for the honor of the country he had so long represented, and as a dutiful wife to follow him in weal or woe, according to the pressure of misfortune, and in impending anger, the break blasts of adversity should not chill my ardor, in following his advice and his cause and trust to God.
“We will lose nearly one half of our stock goods. No doubt the U.S. government will indemnify Mr. Chase at a future day.
“Our house will be turned into a garrison, and three field pieces will be placed upon it. I am willing to stand by my husband at a gun until we both die or are victors.
“I have been trying to keep a journal of the beauties of the drama,
in rather a rough form, and may place it in your hands at a future day.
[RLK]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p2c4 195 words
Correspondence of the Baltimore Sun
Washington, Jan. 5, 1847.
The fate of the ten Regiments to be raised, according to the recommendation of the Secretary of War, is as yet doubtful. I think the bill will be amended so as to substituted volunteers for soldiers. In that case the President is probably ready to send in another message asking for something else. He desires prompt action, and he is right. Any one acquainted with the President, and with his sincere wishes to serve the country faithfully, and to the utmost of his ability; will readily acquit him of ambitious motives. President Polk is a patriot in the loftiest sense of the word, and whether Congress agree with him in this or that measure which he proposes, or not, is a matter of utter indifference to him, so Congress at last agrees to what will serve the wants to the country.
Mr. Walker
is still awaiting the resolutions of the committee on finance, before recommending
some other measure for raising revenue; I have no doubt but that the fertility
of his rich mind will yet hit upon some expedient which will satisfy Congress
and the country.
[MLD]
Friday, RE47v43n73p4c1, January 8, 1847: 869 words
THE EVENTS OF THE PAST YEAR
The year which has just rolled by has been big with events connected with our national character and destiny, and a retrospect cannot but be refreshing and instructive. We select from the New York papers the following summary of the most important incidents. No single year of our national existence has developed more momentous results, or done more to elevate our national character and establish the great destinies of our Republic and the march of free principles on both continents:
January 1st—The Province of Yucatan declared herself independent of Mexico, on the ground that the Central Government had violated the compact.
February 9th—Resolutions for terminating the Joint Occupation of Oregon passed the U. States House of Representatives, 164 to 54
28th— British House of Commons sanctioned, by a large majority, Sir Robert Peel’s measure for reforming the Corn Laws.
March 28th—Gen. Taylor, with an army of 3,500 men, arrived at the Rio Grande, and took post opposite Matamoras.
April 16th—Resolutions to terminate the Joint Occupation of Oregon passed the Senate, 40 to 14.
24th—Capt. Thorton’s command taken by the Mexicans.
May 3d—The Mexicans opened their batteries on Fort Brown, opposite Matamoras. The cannonade was kept up without intermission for seven days, and returned with effect. During the siege, Major Brown was killed by falling shot.
8th—The first general battle was fought with the Mexicans at Palo Alto. The American force under Gen. Taylor was 2,288; the Mexicans, under Arista, numbered twice as many. American loss, 9 killed and 44 wounded; Mexican loss in killed and wounded supposed to be about 400.
9th—Battle of Resaca de la Palma, in which the Mexicans were completely put to rout, with a loss of about 6000-killed and wounded. American loss, 39 killed and 83 wounded. Among the officers killed in these two engagements were Maj. Ringgold, Capt. Page, Lieuts. Inge, Cochrane and Claiborne.
12th—War with Mexico recognized by both Houses of Congress, and a bill passed authorizing the reception of 50,000 volunteers.
June 1st—Pope Gregory XVIth died at Rome, having served more than fifteen years.
18th—The U. S. Senate ratified the Treaty for the division of Oregon.
21st—Cardinal Mastai Ferreti was inaugurated at Rome, under the title of Pope Pius Ixh.—He is 54 years of age.
July 3rd—The new Tariff passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 114 to 95.
6th—Com. Sloat toke possession of Monterey, California, without serious opposition.
17th—Ratifications of the Oregon Treaty were exchanged at the Foreign Office in London.
28th—The new Tariff bill passed to a third reading in the U. S. Senate by the casting vote of Vice President Dallas, and as finally passed by a vote of 28 to 27.
August 3rd—President Polk vetoed the River and Harbor bill.
6th—Another Revolution took place in Mexico in favor of the exiled chief Santa Anna, The troops of Vera Cruz and its vicinity first declared in his favor, and were soon followed by those at the Capital, who deposed and imprisoned Paredes, and proclaimed in favor of Santa Anna and the Constitution of 1824.
8th—President Polk vetoed the French Spoliation bill.
10th—Congress adjourned, after the longest session ever held except that of 1841- 2
15th—U.S. brig Truxton went aground on the bar of Tuxpan river, and two days after was abandoned by Capt. Carpender, officers and crew, who went ashore and surrendered themselves as prisoners of war. They were subsequently exchanged for Gen. La Vega and hi associates.
17th—Commodore Richard F. Stockton declared California a Territory of the U. States, proclaimed himself Governor, and issued a code of laws for the government of the Territory, &c.
18th—Gen. Kearney, at the head of about 3,000 troops, took peaceable possession of Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico.
September 19th—Gen. Taylor arrived before Monterey at the head of about 7,000 men, and, after a siege of three days, forced the Mexicans, under Ampudia, to capitulate and evacuate the city. American loss in killed and wounded, a trifle less than 500; Mexican loss not known, but supposed to be about 1,000. Their force is said to have been 11,000. Among the Americans killed and mortally wounded was Lieut. Col. Watson, of Baltimore.
22nd—Steamer Great Britain, Capt. Hosken, went ashore on the coast of Ireland. No lives lost.
October 11th—A terrible gale occurred in the Gulf of Mexico. Key West, Florida, was almost entirely destroyed.
22d—Commodore Perry captured two Mexican steamers, and several other vessels, at Fontna, mouth of the river Tobasco.
23d—Captured Tobasco after a slight resistance.
30th—Gen. Wool took peaceable possession of Monclova, the capital of Coahuila.
November 14th—Tampico was taken possession of by Commodore Conner, without opposition
December 1st—The new Tariff goes into operation
8th—Congress convenes, there being a quorum in both Houses.
9th—President Polk’s Message is received and published.
30th—Death of hon. Alexander Barrow, at Baltimore, a distinguished Senator of the U.S. from Louisiana.
31st—Intelligence of the total wreck of the U. S. brig Somers, and the loss of many of the officers and crew.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p4c1 66 words
NEWS FROM THE WEST.—We learn, (says the N.Y. Herald,) from a private letter,
dated at Independence, Mo., on the 15t ult, that news had just reached there
from Santa Fe, that a party of our troops at that place had lost five hundred
horse, and in return had captured sixty-eight Indians, without losing a man. It is supposed that hey were of the Appache nation.
[MLD]
Friday, January 8, 1847 RE47v43n73p4c3
INCREASE OF THE ARMY
To the Senate and
House of Representatives of the United States:
In order to prosecute the war against Mexico with vigor and success, it is necessary that authority should be promptly given to Congress to increase the regular army, and to remedy existing defects in its organization. With this view, your favorable attention is invited to the annual report of the Secretary of War, which accompanied my message of the 8th inst, in which he recommends that ten additional regiments of regular troops shall be raised to serve during the war.
Of additional regiments of volunteers which have been called for from several of the States, some have been promptly raised; but this has not been the case in regards to all. This existing law requiring that they should be organized by the independent action of the State governments, has, in some instances, occasioned considerable delay; and it is yet uncertain when the troops requiired can be ready for service in the field.
It is our settled policy to maintain in time of peace as small a regular army as the exigencies of the public service will permit. In a state of war, notwithstanding the great advantage with which our volunteer citizen soldiers can be brought into the field, this small regular army must be increased in its numbers in order to render the whole force more efficient.
Additional officers as well as men, then, become indispensable. Under the circumstances of our service a peculiar propriety exists for increasing the officers, especially in the higher grades. The number of such officers who, from age and other causes, are rendered incapable of active service in the field, has seriously impaired the efficiency of the army.
From the report of the Secretary of War, it appears that about two-thirds of the while number of regimental field officers are either permanently disabled or are necessarily detached from their commands on other duties. The long enjoyment of peace has prevented us from experiencing much embarrassment from this cause; but now in a state of was conducted in a foreign country, it has produced a serious injury to the public service.
An efficient organization of the army composed of regulars and volunteers, whilst prosecuting the war in it is believed would require the appointment of a general officer to take command of all our military forces in the field.
Upon conclusion of the war, the services of such an officer would no longer be necessary, and should be dispensed with upon the reduction of the army to a peace establishment.
I recommend that provision be made by law for the appointment of such s general officer to serve during the war.
It is respectfully recommended that early action should be had by Congress upon suggestions submitted for their consideration, as necessary to insure active and efficient service in prosecuting the war before present favorable season for military operations in the enemy’s country shall have passed away.
JAMES K. POLK.
[MPR]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p1c3 358 words
TERRIBLE ARM OF OFFENCE AND DEFENCE
Capt. Walker left New York a few days since for Washington, having, while in New York, among other things, made a contract for 1000 revolving pistols for the new mounted Rifle Regiment, which is to serve in Mexico. From the New York Express we gather the following particulars:
“This regiment is to be armed with a pair of these weapons, besides rifles. It was found impossible to obtain any number of these pistols in this city, such as, of late, been the demand for them for soldiers and others going to Mexico.
“It is a fact worth noting, that the German who has been the principal mechanic or manufacturer of these revolvers, has recently left us, and suddenly for Mexico, with his chests of tools and machinery. It is pretty well ascertained that he has had most liberal and rich rewards from the government of Mexico, which have tempted him to leave New York, in order to begin the manufacture of that deadly weapon in a foreign country.
“Capt. Walker is very anxious that the War Department should order for the mounted Riflemen, Wesson’s improved Rifle, which will carry the all with unerring precision 400 yards and over. The rifle is light, and well adapted for such services as it will find necessary.”
The New Orleans Delta, of the 2d of January, says that Capt. Brown, of the schr. Rob’t Mills, was informed by Capt. Todd, of the U.S. army, that Santa Anna, at the head of 15,000 troops, was on his way and within four days of Saltillo, and that Gen. Worth, unable to maintain his ground against such overwhelming numbers, was slowly falling back in the direction of Monterey; and that Gen. Taylor, in anticipation of an attack upon that city, was fortifying it at every assailable point. For further particulars, see the extracts from the Picayune.
We are gratified
to announce that the Secretary of War has agree to accept two more companies
(making in all twelve,) to be armed with rifles and bayonets, and to act
as flankers to the regiment. Virginia will thus furnish a fine Legion.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p1c6 484 words
To the Editors of the Enquirer
LYNCHBURG, 3d Jan., 1847
Messrs. Editors:--We had a glorious meeting of our citizens, of all parties, few evenings since, to raise funds, and otherwise prepare for the reception, entertainment, and paying the expenses of the Franklin volunteers to Richmond—expected last evening; but, owing to the appointment of their Captain, Jubal A. Early, as Major, most of them have disbanded, and only some dozen have as yet arrived; and, I suppose, will be about the number that will volunteer from this county, so that our funds remain unspent, for the benefit of Capt. Preston’s Company from Montgomery, daily expected.
Can you tell why it is, that the Editor of the Richmond Whig is so anxious for the Tenth Legion to raise a Company for Mexico? Is it because he would like to get as many Democratic voters out of the State for the Spring campaign as possible? Or, is it his great patriotism? If so, let him ask why it is that his long abiding place, and strong hold of Whiggery, Lynchburg, has not done anything. Perhaps his influence, if exerted, may do something to arouse the yet dormant patriotism of Lynchburg, and excite them to action. But the Tenth Legion will look to some other quarter for counsel and kind wishes than to the Richmond Whig . Here, in his strong-hold of Whiggery, there are to be found individuals who are so much opposed to the Administration, that they are not willing to contribute out of their pockets, and vote against the contribution, in Common Council, of funds to feed volunteers for Mexico. But I am proud to say, these are like the great constitutional expounder, Mr. Lanier of Pittsylvania, “Lone Stars” of Whiggery. The great majority of the party are for a vigorous prosecution of the war, although opposed to it. Can he find such in the Tenth Legion? Our faithful representative in Congress, E. W. Hubard, having declined being a candidate here points to Willis P. Bocock as his successor; but a Convention will be recommended at our January Campbell Court, to bring out our strongest man—and, if that is done, Whiggery will be defeated, as usual. Who is to be elected Senator on the 15th? Is the anxious inquiry of every Democrat. Give us Jones, Smith, Hunter, or any sound Democrat, elected by Democrats, but don’t let Whiggery choose our man for us. Show me a Democrat that is unwilling to go into caucus to nominate a candidate, and I will show you a man who looks to Whiggery to support his favorite; and such a course out to be repudiated by every good Democrat. Let union, concession and harmony prevail, and all will be well.
A DEMOCRAT.
The meeting above alluded to was eloquently addressed by Wm. M. Blackford,
Esq., Editor of the Virginian, and James Garland and John M. Speed, Esqrs.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p1c7 341 words
INTERESTING CORRESPONDENCE
WASHINGTON CITY, JAN 2, 1847
Sir: I have requested my brother, M. Washington Greenhow, to present you four copies of my History of Oregon and California, of which I hope you will do me the favor to accept one for yourself, and to give the others, with my respects, to the Lieutenant Colonel, the Major, and the Adjutant of your Regiment.
Being unable to contribute effectively, to the service in which you are engaged, I can only testify my respect for yourself and the other volunteers of my native State, by presenting these volumes, relating in part to the countries in which you are destined to act; with the hope that they may afford some interest to yourself and your officers, during the voyage to Mexico, or in those periods of tedious inactivity, so often occurring in military expeditions.
With the sincere wish that your regiment may have many occasions to display those qualities in the field which Virginians have never yet been found to want, I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully, you ov’t. serv’t.
ROBERT GREENHOW
COL. HAMTRAMCK, Commander of the Regiment of Virginia Volunteers.
RICHMOND, Va., January 4, 1847
Sir: I have just received your letter and four copies of your History of Oregon and California, which you are pleased to say are presented to the Field Officers of the Regiment, in testimony of your respect for the volunteers of your native State. The distribution your desire shall be made, and I doubt not the work will prove a source of much pleasure to all, as both officers and men will find it in a vast among of information peculiarly calculated to please at the present juncture of affairs.
For the gilt, and your kind wish, I beg you to accept of my grateful thanks, that we may fulfil the latter is my prayer, and that a field commensurate with the expectation of Virginia, and the desire of the men, may be afforded, is the hope of
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOHN F. HAMTRAMCK.
ROBERT GREENHOW. ESQ. WASHINGTON CITY.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c1 619 words
While all eyes are anxiously watching the movements of our gallant army in the South, and while Virginia comes forward to participate with her sister States of the North, South, East and West, in the glory of sustaining the honor and rights of he nation, in a contest with a foreign and aggressive power, we had anxiously hoped that the demon of party spirit would cordially co-operate in bearing the American flag to honorable triumph, until full justice be done and a permanent peace secured from the infatuated and misguided Mexican Government. But in this it seems we are doomed to disappointment. The Whig press are constantly throwing out intimations that an overwhelming majority of the Virginia Regiment of Volunteers are Whigs. John S. Pendleton, Esq., (the “Lone Star,” and the representative in Congress from the Fauquier District,) it seems could not let the occasion pass on Saturday, while the House of Representatives were engaged in the discussion of the Army bill, without lugging in the supposed political opinions of the officers and men composing the Virginia Regiment of Volunteers. Mr. P. is reported to have said “he reminded the member who had cast a slur upon the Whigs, that of the 18 companies volunteering in Virginia, all of them were from Whig counties and cities, and all mustered into service had been from Whig towns or counties.” Mr. Shelton F. Leake, of the Albemarle district, humorously replied that “he happened to be traveling on board a steamboat, where he heard a man say of the Berkeley company that he would not join such a d—d set, because there were but seven Whigs in it.”
We have not
counted noses—we wash our hands of such dirty work; but since the question
has been mooted by the Whigs, we have been credibly informed that a majority
of the men composing the Regiment are Democrats; and that a majority of the
men coming from two of the strongest Federal counties in the State, (Augusta
and Berkely,) are also Democrats. Where is Mr. Pendleton’s own District?
As he is so much disposed to boast of the chivalry of the Whig party, why
is it that in his own district—with old Federal Loudoun and Fauquier—Loudoun,
with her heavy majority of upwards of one thousand for Clay—has not come
forward and responded to the call “To Arms!” and furnished a company for
the Mexican war? Atkinson’s, Dromgoole’s, Hubard’s, Seddon’s, McDowell’s,
Bedinger’s, and Chapman’s Districts, now represented on the floor of Congress
by Democrats, have come forward and responded to the call made upon this
State, while the District represented by Mr. Pendleton has not furnished
a single company—no, not one. Very well; let it be so. We only
refer to this subject because the gentleman in his zeal for the Whig cause
has made assertions which he ought first to have ascertained to be correct
before he stated them, and which ew do not believe are justified by the facts
of the case. While some delay has occurred in the formation of the Virginia
Regiment, owing to the extent of our territory and the sparseness of our
population—yet more companies tendered their services to the Governor than
the quota required by the President from this State. Indeed, recent
events prove that northern Regiment could be speedily obtained, if the Government
would accept their services.—Men of all parties and of every locality have
shown great zeal and alacrity to enter the service, regardless of their opinions
as to the origin of the war. They do not stop to enquire, “Is our country
in the right or in the wrong?” but they say “Our country, right or wrong.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c1 345 words
The Lynchburg Virginian, of the 7th instant, contains a correspondence between John J. Griffin, chairman of a committee on behalf of the citizens of Salem, Roanoke country, and James F. Preston, Captain of the Montgomery company of volunteers, inviting the company to make that place one of their stopping places, and accept of accommodations which would be provided for them. Capt. Preston accepts the invitation and expected to reach Salem on his route on Thursday the 7th of January, with from 80 to 90 men, about five four horse wagons, and twenty of the above number of men mounted on horses. The company expected to reach Lynchburg on Sunday, and may be expected here in a few days.
A large number of the citizens of Franklin county assembled together at Rocky Mount on the 31st of December, to partake of a complimentary dinner to be given to Jubal A. Early, Esq., the newly appointed Major of the Virginia Regiment of Volunteers. Judge Norborne M. Taliaferror presided at the festive board, the Hon. N. H. Claiborne, Major M. G. Carper, and Colonel Robert T. Woods, of the Va. Senate, acted as Vice Presidents, and N. C. Caliborne, Esq., Secretary. After the cloth was removed, Judge Taliaferro, in a feeling address, called the attention of the company to the objects of the meeting, and concluded by offering the following sentiment:
“Our guest and friend, Major Early: At the call of the State, we give and commend him to her service, and trust her honor to his keeping in a distant country. His character and tried valor need not our assurance that neither will suffer in his hands.”
Which was
drunk by the whole company, and responded to by Major Early in a manner long
to be remembered by those present; many other sentiments were offered and
drunk by the company, expressive of their high esteem for and warm attachment
to their friend and fellow-citizen, Maj. Early, and of the regret with which
we all part with him, and many others of a character usual on such occasions.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c1 306 words
We sincerely regret that the fine company of volunteers raised in Norfolk by Captain O.E. Edwards, and ready at a moment’s call for Mexico, could not be accepted by the Executive: Virginia’s complement having been made up. We learn that the members of this company are the very men to stand the climate of Mexico, a large number of them being from the Bay Shore, well acclimated by the bilious and ague fever, and accustomed to stand up to their waists in the water on the coldest days, shooting ducks, &c.
To the Captain’s credit we would remark, that he had only been elected about ten days when he tendered the services of his company. At that time the company numbered about thirty. He now musters seventy-tow as fine looking men as can be seen. The company was raised, mustered into barracks, and supported at his own expense. These men are still in barracks, and if they could be accepted, we doubt not that they would do every thing in support of their country’s cause.
We again
express our regret that circumstances prevented their being enrolled in the
service of their native State. On Wednesday evening last the following
officers were elected: O.E. Edwards, Captain; J. F. Lewis, first Lieutenant;
J. H. Sale, first second Lieutenant; and J. B. Minton, second second Lieutenant. After the election, Colonel J. S. Millson addressed them in an eloquent manner,
which called forth shouts of applause. The company, then, unanimously
resolved, that the Captain be empowered to offer their services to the Executive
of North Carolina, should they be rejected by the Governor of Virginia. Should
our neighbors of North Carolina be disposed to accept the aid of Virginia,
we are sure that they will find in Captain Edwards’ company as gallant
and efficient corps as the Union can boast.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c2 327 words
All patriots will deeply regret to see the question of slavery introduced into the discussions in Congress. It is premature and mischievous. If, to secure an indemnity against Mexican outrages, it be necessary to acquire any new territory, what possible good can be attained by raising the question of slavery at the present time? It will be time enough when Congress shall be called upon to admit this territory as States into the Union. But since the North has sprung the issue, it behooves the South to stand firm upon the compromises of the Union. This is a question in which not only her property, but the safety of her people, may be concerned. Let her yield now, and no one can fix a limit to the evil. As the Union says, if “the attempt be made to put one portion of the confederacy under the ban, it will produce only excitement and mischief. The elaborate and able speech of Mr. Seddon of Richmond spoke the same language. So strong is this feeling, that we deem it highly probable no treaty of peace can pass two thirds of the Senate if it should depart form this principle.”
Our duty now is to fight out the war with Mexico, by uniting all our energies
and resources, and not waste our strength by idle quarrels among ourselves
upon a domestic question, which never should have been forced into the political
arena. The Missouri compromise has been sanctioned by the judgment and
feelings of the whole country. The South is willing to stand by it. Will the North abandon the principle, and force us to the brink of disunion?
We are glad to see a cheering sign in Thursday night’s Union, which says
“We are happy to discover that a more harmonious and liberal spirit prevails
to-day throughout the Hall; and we cannot doubt that either the previso will
be dropt, or a liberal compromise be substituted in is place.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c2 274 words
BRIGADIER GENERAL
We cheerfully endorse the following views, based upon such sound reasons, in favor of Virginia’s having the honor of furnishing the Brigadier General, to command the three Regiments from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.
We call the attention of the Virginia delegation in Congress to this important matter, and feel satisfied that they will do all that is necessary to secure for Virginia what she so fully deserves:
For the Enquirer.
SOUTHERN BRIGADE
We notice that efforts are begin made by the Legislature of South Carolina, aided by the Governor, to obtain for a citizen of that State, the command of the brigade to be formed by the Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina regiments. Now we may ask if Virginia is not entitled to this honor? She has now eighteen companies ready for the field, and although the General Government has declined the proffer of but one regiment; yet, the fact that double that number have enrolled themselves, and are ready at a moment’s notice, would seem to us to entitle the Old Dominion to a claim for that distinguished honor.
It cannot be said she is deficient in material for this command, for no State in the Union can claim better or more; then will not Virginia’s representatives in Congress press this matter? Or, is a soldier of the Palmetto State to have the undisputed honor of marshalling Virginians on the battle-field? This was not wont to be; then why now? We have as gallant a regiment on its way to do battle for its country, as ever took the field; should not a Virginian sound the charge?
ROANOKE.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c3 207 words
The Raleigh Standard refers to an interesting incident in the North Carolina Legislature. In this case, no one can with truth say, “Lo, the poor Indian:”
“On Thursday,
Yunaluskee, the Cherokee chief, appeared first before the Senate, and then
before the House of Commons, to return his thanks to the Legislature for
their kindness to him in voting him three hundred acres of land in Cherokee
and one hundred dollars in money—Mr. Hayes, the Commoner from Cherokee, acting
as his interpreter. He said it was the first time he had had the honor
of appearing before the Grand Council of North Carolina; that, at the age
of thirty-three, he had joined the white people, and that, in his youth, he
had helped them to win their battles; that, as he had fought for the white
man in his youth and manhood, so the white man had been good and kind to him
in his old age, in relieving his present necessities, and in giving him a
home in the land of his fathers; that he never expected to look upon the Grand
Council of the State again, but the should remember them always, and he tendered
to them, and to the white people, his everlasting thanks.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c3 74 words
Much to our
disappointment, we have no later news form the South—the mail having failed
twice. If it be true, as stated by some of the last accounts, that
Santa Anna was marching upon Saltillo with 15,000, or even 20,000 men, and
Gen. Taylor would concentrate 10,000 men at that point, we see no reason for
the fears expressed by many. On the contrary, we predict another victory
for old “Rough and Ready.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c3 87 words
EXTRACT of a letter from a member of Capt. Scott’s Company of a Volunteers to his Father in Chesterfield, written the 5th inst., at Fortress Monroe:
“We left Richmond last Sunday morning, and arrive here at 7, P.M. We have
good quarters here, but rather rough provisions. I did not expect to
live in camp as I did at home. This is in fact better than I expected
to have. Captain Scott is taking good care of his men, and we
all love him as a father.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c4 66 words
HONOR TO THE BRAVE—A number of the citizens of Charleston, being desirous
of presenting a Sword, or other suitable testimonial to Lieut. Col. Fremont,
as an evidence of the high estimation in which his distinguished services
and gallant conduct in; Oregon and California are held, by his fellow townsmen,
a subscription list is now circulating among the citizens—Subscriptions to
be limited to one dollar.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c4 27 words
DR. C.J.F. Bohannan, of Richmond, has been appointed, by the president
of the United States, Surgeon of the first regiment of Virginia volunteers.—{Alex.
Gaz.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p2c6 505 words
THE CAPITULATION OF MONTEREY.—The editor of the Portsmouth Tribune commands a company of the Ohio volunteers now in Mexico, and was present at the siege and capture of Monterey, of which he has written a narrative for his paper. We copy the following interesting account of the capitulation:
“The cannonading and bombardment continued until Thursday morning, when a flag of truce was sent to Gen. Worth, and another; borne by Col. Moreno, to Gen. Taylor, with proposals for a surrender. The negotiation was opened that day: on the next the articles were duly signed; and on Saturday they surrendered in fact, and retired from their powder-blackened dens of destruction, from which bolts of death were driven upon our brave troops who marched in and hoisted the stars and strips with hearty and prolonged cheers. The ceremony was a deeply interesting spectacle, as I am told by those who witnessed it. I rode through several of the streets that afternoon.—The whole place was marked by indications of universal mourning. The inhabitants were busily engaged in moving into their homes. A deep gloom had settled upon their swarthy countenances. The officers, many of whom are Castilians of high rank, education and fortuned, were dressed in mourning, and moved about with a dispirited air, with their heads covered with crape, apparently overwhelmed with affliction. The ladies seemed all nuns, for black mantillas and sorrowful visages were all the fashion on that woful day. I was not surprised at this exhibition of feeling, knowing the confidence in absolute security that had been inspired by the extensive preparations for defence.
“Many a battle
has been fought under the walls of Monterey, and et it was never taken. It withstood a regular siege of fourteen days, in the last revolution against
Spain, and the republicans held the place unharmed. And then it is
a beautiful city, surrounded by the lofty peaks of the Sierra Madre, with
a spacious valley, fertile as any portion of the earth, and full of all that
wealth and luxury command to make life pleasant. It holds, I understand,
many families of education and refinement. Its gardens are full of
the orange, pomegranate, fig, grape vine, and every description of fruit
belonging to an almost tropical latitude. A canal of crystal water
gurgles through the cool shade, supplying an abundance of pure cool water,
fresh from the mountain side. The houses are all white, the streets
well paved with limestone pebble, and stretch out for miles, filled with
multitudes, hurrying to and fro in confusion. The soldiers of both
armies meeting silence, and pass with mute but courteous salutes. Ill-repressed
smiles of triumph light up the countenances of the Americans, and contrast
with the somber saddening expression resting upon those of the Mexicans. There is much here I would like to write of, and some day may describe for
too long deferred the details most interesting to every reader, concerning
the fate of the members of our company and regiment, as ascertained after
the battle.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c1
ARRIVAL OF THE VIRGINIA AND EMPRESARIO.
From the New Orleans Picayune, Jan. 2.
The steamer Virginia, Capt. Smith, arrived last evening from Tampico, via Brazos Santiago, having left the Brazos on the 27th inst. The brig Empressario, Capt. Collins, which sailed from Tampico on the 26th , also arrived last night. By these vessels we have received letters from Mr. Lumsden, at Tampico, some of which we give below. They contain all the intelligence brought from Tampico, and clear up some points in the accounts previously received which appeared obscure.
We have conversed with a gentleman who came passenger in the Virginia from Brazos, and who is direct from Monterey. He has kindly furnished us with the following information, which is highly important, if there be no error in the accounts. They were fully credited at eh Brazos, and are confirmed by Capt. Brower, of the schooner Robert Mills, who arrived last evening from that port.
An express from Gen. Worth at Saltillo, arrived at Monterey on Wednesday, the 16th of Dec. It brought the news that Gen. Worth had learned through his spies that Santa Anna was within three days march of Saltillo, at the head of an army of twenty or thirty thousand men. The express bore a call upon Gen. Taylor for reinforcements. General Taylor and his staff had left Monterey on the 15th ult.- the day before the express arrived- fro Victoria, to join his command, which was two days march in advance of him.
Gen. Butler, in command at Monterey, immediately sent of dispatches to Gen. Marshall, at Camargo, and to Gen. Patterson, at Matamoros, to send forward without delay all the troops they could spare from their commands.
Gen. Patterson had left Matamoros only the day before the news reached that place. It was at once forwarded to him, and upon learning its purport our informant states that he immediately started on his return with the view to proceed to Monterey.
It was reported at Tampico on the 25th, as will be seen from the postscript to Mr. Lumsden’s last letter, that a portion of Gen. Patterson’s command had entered Victoria, but it is not mentioned that the General himself had arrived, so that we cannot judge how far the news from the two sources may conflict.
The express reported at Matamoros that the road from Moterey to Camargo was lined with troops- regulars and volunteers- on their march to Monterey, having been previously ordered up. Our informant says there were four regiments upon the road. The route from Monterey is infested by predatory bands of rancheros, by which the traveling is rendered insecure. Our train had been attacked a few days before our informant passed over the road, as had also several small parties, and some few men had been killed and wounded.
We need not say that this news possesses the highest interest. As we
write we have only verbal reports in regard to it, but hope to receive
this morning our correspondence from the army. There is no intrinsic improbability
in the news of Santa Anna’s movements, and if he possesses the energy
and skill claimed for him, nothing appears more likely than that he should
fall like a thunderbolt upon some point in our extended line and hope to
crush us. But we have every confidence in the vigilance of General Worth,
and his ability to hold the enemy in check until Gen. Wool and Gen. Taylor
arrive to his support. We await further intelligence with the utmost interest.
[MPR]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c1
Editorial Correspondence of the Picayune.
Tampico, December 19, 1847.
Gen. Shields takes formal command here to-day. He is energetic, thoughtful, and intelligent, and is in every respect fitted for his station. One of the last acts of Col. Gates, previously in command of this post, was to remove a fellow named Labruere from his office as auctioneer, for refusing to take up arms and turn out with the citizens the other day when they had the alarm of which I informed you yesterday “Served him right.”
Lieut. R.P. Hammond, 3d Artillery, aide-de-camp to Gen. Shields, is appointed Acting Assistant Adjutant General of the Command at Tampico.
In obedience to instructions from Maj. Gen. Patterson, Capt. Hunt, 4th Artillery, with his company now here, is ordered to Camargo to relieve the garrison there.
We have various rumors of the movements of the Mexicans in the interior, but nothing of apparent correctness enough to tell you of.
Tampico, December 23, 1846.
The British mail steamer Dee, Capt. Griffith, which has been some days off the entrance to this place, sailed yesterday morning for Vera Cruz. I learned she carried a considerable amount of specie. The officers of the Dee, with one or two of whom I became acquainted here, are very polite and pleasing, free, frank and gentlemanly in their bearing.
The brig Hallowell arrived here three nights ago from Brazos Santiago, with all the remaining Alabama troops but one company. These are the only volunteer troops here. They are, for the most part, a hardy set of men, orderly and quiet in their deportment, and will, no doubt, if an opportunity occurs, show that they are made of good metal.
Except the Ewing, the vessels belong to the U.S. Squadron, mentioned in my last as being here, have not yet sailed, but they will soon be off. What is to be their point of destination I do not certainly know; but I have gathered enough to assure me that Tuspan is to be looked in upon. The steamer Spitfire, […] Tattnall, is certainly to run in by way of a reconnaissance, if nothing more. The officers are all most anxious for something to turn up, giving them a fair chance to do something, and I sincerely wish they may have a chance.
Tampico is a fine little place. I am becoming more and more pleased with it. It is being Americanized very rapidly. At present there are but few of the better classes of the former citizens here; but those few are becoming, apparently, quite satisfied with the new regime . The police regulations are excellent, and every thing goes on quiet. But of this more anon.
I visited , a day or two since, the line of works building by our forces, under the superintendence of Capt. Barnard, of the U.S. Engineers, and I must say it is most beautiful, so far as it is progressed. More substantial defensive works I have seldom seen. They are superlatively grand, in comparison with those constructed by the Mexicans heretofore, and most indubitably must they command all the approaches to the city by land, however large the number of troops advancing. The greatest scientific skill appears to have been displayed in the strength and construction, as well as proper locations of these works. In a word, they will, when completed, be impregnable- at least to Santa Anna’s whole army!
Hart has taken a very nice house here, which he is fixing up as a theatre. In the meantime he gives a series of concerts, Mrs. H., Miss Christian and others appearing in songs, and Wells executing dances, &c. The idea of an American theatre in Tampico is rather novel, but nevertheless we are to have one, and I almost venture to prophecy its success.
I could write you pages about Mrs. Chase, the excellent lady of our worthy consul here; but you have been furnished with the details of her unshrinking, noble and daring conduct, as well as in defending herself and home while her husband was in exile, as in furnishing the most important information to our squadron in the Gulf- information which saved Tampico and made it an American possession! I need, therefore, say no more than this- which I must say- that Ann Chase is a great woman! I have had the honor of being presented to the lady, and confess that I lack words to express my admiration of those attributes in her which make woman great, and render her the heroine of a glorious incident in the history of America!
I have nothing to add, but shall keep you informed by every opportunity of what may be interesting.
Yours, &c. F. A. L.
Tampico, Dec. 25, 1846.
I wish you all a merry Christmas. There is every appearance of there being a merry one here- such as Tampico never saw before. Eggs are very plenty and very cheap, and lots of egg nog to be drunk, The “boys” are bound to do it.
The vessels of the squadron mentioned in my last are still here. The prize schooner “Belle,” under command of Acting Master Perry, (of the Cumberland,) will sail tomorrow for Anton Lizardo. The steamer Spitfire, schrs. Reefer and Nonato (prize) will remain here until the forces are reinforced- then look out for something in the shape of a fight at Tuspan. I have a little information- authentic- about Tuspan, which I will give you. Gen. Cos, commander of the place, has refused to obey the order of Santa Anna to evacuate the town. He has a force under him of from four to five hundred troops of the line, and a large body of Indians whom he has called in from the mountains of Mazantla and Papantle- two or three thousand in number- but indifferently armed. At Tuspan there are three conical hills- the town lying in the valley. These heights are all fortified with six pieces of artillery each, besides having a strong picketing formed of heavy chijal posts. There is no defence at the Mouth of the river, but about half way from the bar to the town- six miles- there is a battery of 24-pounders. The water in the bar is now about five feet only. Some of the guns are the Truxton’s, captured by the unfortunate loss of that vessel under Captain Carpender.
It is thought here by the most intelligent persons, that the only way to successfully attack Tuspan would be by troops, as the town is so situated that a vessel in the river can only bring her guns to bear on two different points, while the guns on the heights not only command the town entirely, but the river also. The most feasible way to attack the place would be to send a force to be landed at the south of the bar [Tuspan being on the north,] abreast of the town, and distant about twelve miles, and proceed to bombard the place at once, when no doubt the third or fourth shell falling in their midst would cause the Mexicans to display a white flag in a very short time.
Now a little but about Tula, or Tamaulipas. The garrison of this place, [Tampico,] when it evacuated the city, went to Tula. This garrison consisted of the battalion of Tampico, 12th Regiment of Infanrty, Permanentes de Tampico, Veteranos de Tampico, a small company of artillery, the remnant of the 6th Regiment, left from the memorable actions of Palo Alto and Resaca, and a small force of cavalry. At present there are in Tula, distant about 180 miles from this place, on the route to San Luis Potosi, some three or four thousand men of various arms, under Gens. Valencia, Carvajal and a half dozen others, who are fortifying the place against an apprehended attack from the American forces at this place.
Private letters from the city of Mexico are in this city, stating that it is expected there will soon be a revolution there against the ministers, who the people say have proved themselves incompetent to manage the affairs of the nation in a proper manner. In fact it is said that everything is in confusion- no money, no credit, and plenty of dissatisfaction.
The people here in Tampico- except those who formerly held office- look upon us as their deliverers, not as enemies. It is well known that the Governor of this State [Tamaulipas] is ready, on the first approach of the United States forces towards Vic
toria its capital, to surrender, in the name of its Congress, the whole territory to us.
The police regulations here are most excellent. By the following orders you will see that certain classes of people needn’t come here:
Headquarters Tampico Troops,
Orders No. 3.,
Tampcio, Mexico, Dec. 22.
I. All persons occupying houses in Tampico or in its vicinity are hereby strictly prohibited from allowing any species of public gambling within the same.
II. All houses or other places kept for the purpose of public gambling will be closed, the persons found gambling in them arrested, those attached to the Army punished, and those who are not, banished.
III. All personal property found in any house or place kept for gambling, and all money or property employed in gambling will be confiscated, and the proceeds thereof appropriated as a hospital fund for the relief of the poor and indigent in Tampico .
IV. Major N. Williams, 4th Artillery, is specially assigned to the superintendence of the police and good order of the town. He will charge himself particularly with carrying the provisions of this order into immediate execution, and with the prevention and suppression of any species of riot, disturbance and disorder whatsoever. And the better to effect this, he is authorized to call upon the commander of the troops in town for any assistance which may be necessary. By order of Brig. Gen. Shields:
R.P. Hammond, A.A. Adj’t Gen.
This is about all I have for you at the present writing.
Yours, &c. F.A.L.
P.S. I have just heard that a portion of the troops under Gen. Patterson
have reached Victoria, and there was no fighting. F.A.L.
[MPR]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c2 329 words
FROM TAMPICO.—The brigs Millundon, Capt. Welsh, and C.H. Rogers, Capt. Wilson arrived yesterday from Tampico, (says the N. O. Picayune) both having sailed on the 25th December, five days later than our previous advices.
Everything was perfectly quiet at Tampico on the 25th ult. No Mexican troops had been seen in the vicinity for eight days, and all felt perfectly secure from an attack from the enemy.
The whole number of troops at Tampico on the 25th December was 1,800, and we hear of no sickness among them. The remainder of the Alabama regiment that arrived from Brazos Santiago with one company of U.S. Artillery and the guns belonging to it. If this be true, we do not understand the movement.
We have been favored by a commercials house of this city with the following interesting extract of a letter received by the Ewing. It contains the first intimation we have seen of the action of the Mexican Congress, which, justifies the anticipations of Santa Anna, expressed in his late letter to Gen. Taylor:
TAMPICO, Dec. 17, 7 A.M
I was interrupted at 3 A.M. yesterday, from closing this letter, by a call to arms. I obeyed it immediately of course. After having organized my company (No. 1 or A.) I was ordered to the arsenal, where I remained till late in the P. M. The reports which occasioned this alarm proved exaggerations; and we were discharged, holding ourselves ready for any future emergency.—When more at leisure, I will tell you how gallantly our Yankee Captains and their men manifested the spirit of the Revolution.
Advices via
Vera Cruz were received last evening of the action of the Mexican Congress. They declare that they will not think or treat of peace until every hostile
foot has cleared Mexican soil, and every vessel that lines our coast is withdrawn. I consider the war now commenced in real earnest, and I prophecy that Tampico
will become an American town.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c2 693 words
For the Enquirer:
Messrs. Editors: In the Whig of the first of January, the Editor bas edified us with a “Chapter on Salt,” He says that since he new Tariff has gone into operation, salt has risen in value. I believe that the Whig will agree that prices are chiefly regulated by demand and supply, rather than by the duty which may happen to be levied; for, whether the duty of ’42 or ’46 be regarded, both are too trivial to affect the price of the article materially; and so if there be an increase of the price, it must be attributed rather to almost any other cause than the one referred to by the learned yet obstinate Editor. Does he not know that the foreign article is always cheap, and that the price varies not so much with a slight change of duty as with the state of commerce? When commerce is languid, salt is high; but when any thing transpires to stimulate commerce, and render it prosperous, salt will be sure to rise in value; for it is one of the most unprofitable articles of merchandise that our merchants would think of dealing in as a return load; hence that has been given to trade, showing a profitable interchange of other commodities. Let commerce again be dull, so that salt would be brought as ballast from foreign countries, and down the price would go, whether the Tariff of ’42 or that of ’46 was in operation. We all know it is paradoxical to contend that a high rate of duty would diminish the price; if so, our manufacturers, who certainly know their own interests would not a ways be clamorous for increased duties. Why should they be so anxious for the adoption of a policy which they contend is so detrimental to them? If the argument of the Editor in his “Chapter on Salt” be universally or even generally true, that high duties make cheap goods, then in contending for that policy, if he could bring his convictions to bear, he would inflict a direful injury upon the friends he is so zealous to serve. But although they contend for the absurdity, the inconsistency of their conduct shows plainly that whenever the paradox occurs, other and probably various causes combine to produce a result at war with common sense and the plainest dictates of our understanding. Why did this sagacious Editor sound the tocsin of alarm in regard to the probability that Polk’s Administration would be driven to the necessity of imposing a tax on tea and coffee, it by so doing we could derive the double advantage of revenue and low prices? How easy it is to convict a sagacious Editor either of inconsistency or insincery! Does he think that one hundred “Chapters on Salt” would establish a theory, the bare incompatibility of which carried its own refutation to the simplest minds? Will he tell us whether the high duty imposed by the English Government on American tobacco makes the price low to the consumer? The duty certainly enhances the price; and if to high duty there be added increased demand and inadequate supply and other co-operating causes, all tending to the same result, then the price will be exorbitant. If the duty alone operates with a fair demand and regular supply, we should see something like stability in prices. But supply sometimes being exorbitant and often times inadequate, the prices fluctuates accordingly—rate of duty and other causes at the same time having their comparative tendency either to aggravate or to control in some way the price of commodities. If a high rate of duty should cause over production, and there should b a superabundant supply, or what we call a glut in the market, then the Whig paradox will apply that high duties make low goods. But suppose in such a contingency there was no duty, is it not obvious that the goods would still be lower? Surely, surely; then why should the Editors of the Whig attempt an imposition on common sense? “I have lived, I have seen, I know,” and in my youth I read.
TELEMACHUS
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c2
FURTHER NEWS FROM NEW MEXICO
We copy the following from the St. Louis Republican of Wednesday, 30th ult.:
A gentleman of this city, connected with the army, has furnished us with the following extract of a letter received from Ft. Leavenworth, by the last mail. It true, the news is painfully important. The letter says:
“We have dates from Santa Fe to November 15. Capt. Burgwin, with the
dragoons, and also three companies of Col. Doniphan’s regiment, have
gone below to the assistance of the traders. There is a rumor that sixty
dragoons have been defeated by the Navajo Indians. Lieut. Noble, of the
dragoons, writes that ‘he fears and believes the rumor is
true.’”
[MPR]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c3 767 words
THE GULF SQUADRON AND PENSACOLA DRY DOCK
We had hoped to see an early movement in Congress in regard to a Dry Dock in some harbor of the Gulf for the use of our ships. A large number of our vessels are there, and although peculiarly liable to injuries of various kinds to their hulls, no examination even can be made without sending them as far North as Norfolk, exposing them to still greater peril, than a voyage from any of our Atlantic ports to Europe. This ought not to be. All seem to agree in that; and also, that Pensacola is the most suitable place.—The papers of the North are filled with articles on the subject. They dispute about the different kinds f dry dock—most of them seem against the stone dock as too costly and tardy in construction, while some think it utterly impracticable at that place within any reasonable limits of expenditure. Some scientific opinions are advanced that a good foundation could not be had at a less cost than at Brooklyn, where half a million has been spent in vain, according to the Tribune, in the effort to obtain a foundation. We humbly think the effort to obtain a stone dock should not be preserved in at this time of pressing need, even if it shall be contemplated here after. While the subject is under discussion, either of the floating docks could almost be finished, whereas many years would probably be consumed in the erection of the stone dock.
If one of the floating docks be adopted, in a few months any of our vessels of war, under suspicion of damage, could be examined, and if necessary, repaired and returned to her blockading position.
As to which of the floating dry docks the preference should be given, we have but little to say—and would be satisfied with the decision of competent officers of the Navy, or scientific civilians appointed for the purpose, if Congress be unwilling to determine the question. We see some of the papers, that formerly preferred the sectional dock, have changed their opinions, and are now in favor of the balance dock. The great distinguishing feature between them appears to be this. The former is composed, mainly, o a series of large water-tight tanks or camels, which are sunk, or placed under the vessels intended to be raised, and, by pumping out the water, the lifting power is obtained. The other, or balance dock, is composed of one large structure, like the hull of a large ship, or floating lock, closed by gates at one or both ends. When the gate is open, the dock sinks to the required depth—the ship is introduced, the gates closed, the water pumped out, when it is suspended, as on the stocks originally.
The sectional dock has more light, but requires greater depth of water, (as the whole thickness of the tank or camel has to be accommodated below the keel of the ship,) and, when the ship is raised, it is more liable to be turned over, the weight being on the top. The friends of the balance dock say it has light enough, and certainly as much as a stone dock—that it requires very little more depth of water than is necessary to float the ship—that a vessel in it cannot be hurt—that gales and storms cannot affect it—that it is cheap, stronger, and ore durable, and has almost every conceivable advantage of the stone dock, without many of its disadvantages—that they have built a great number of them, which experience ahs fully tested, and that the result has been uniformly satisfactory.
From the
statements in the Northern papers, it seems these balance docks have been
built at nine or ten different ports in Europe and this country, for national
and commercial purposes, and at each with triumphant success. This decision
of the public would seem to have settled the question of relative value,
and we certainly concur in it; but why hesitate about building both, if doubt
be still entertained on that point? The cost is literally nothing,
in comparison with the advantages to the nation under existing circumstances.
The injury from one year’s delay may greatly exceed the cost of both kinds—(one
at Philadelphia and the other at Pensacola)—to say nothing of the loss of
reputation to the nation, if one of her national ships should be lost, in
consequence of the difficulty of getting to a dry dock. We hope the
subject will attract the attention of Congress.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c3 217 words
The following resolutions have been unanimously adopted by the City Council, on motion of John S. Caskie, Esq.
“The Council of the City of Richmond, in consequence of the movement for individual subscriptions and the State appropriations, not having as a body, yet had an opportunity of making the same exhibitions of interest and respect for the Volunteers of Richmond, that has been made by the corporate authorities of some other towns in the State, and esteeming it due to their own feelings and those of the city they represent, to offer a public manifestation of the affection and pride with which Richmond regards the gallant men enrolled from her people for the Mexican war, unanimously adopt the following resolutions:
1. Resolved, That swords be presented in the name of the city, to the Captains and Lieutenants of the Richmond Grays and Richmond Rangers, companies belonging to the Virginia Regiment, raised under the late requisition from the President of the United States.
2. Resolved, That a committee of three members be appointed to purchase suitable swords, request their acceptance by the above named officers, and make all arrangements for their presentation.
A committee was accordingly appointed of Messrs. Caskie, Wickham and Carrington. On motion of Mr. Wickham, the President of the Council was added to the committee.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c4 283 words
We yesterday received no Union or Intelligencer, and are, therefore, without a full report of the interesting proceedings of Thursday. We, however, see in the Baltimore Sun that Messrs. Archer and Crittenden came out in favor of the war and its vigorous prosecution. “They probably did not wish to be outdone by Harry Clay at New Orleans,” who spoke in manly terms of the patriotic duty of all to punish “the wrongs done to this country by Mexico.” With the Sun we say, “would that other Senators and members were to follow the honorable example;”—and, we add, would that many of the Whig papers and politicians would, like Mr. Clay, take the side of their own country, and not, on all occasions, justify and defend the course of Mexico, and virtually declare that she is in the right, and their own country in the wrong.
In the Baltimore American we find the following notice of Mr. Crittenden’s remark:
“He was very anxious to see an end to this war. The best mode would be to adopt such means as were now proposed.
“There was
another way, and that was to fall back upon some portion of the territory
which we have taken, and let the Mexicans make war upon us. But this
would leave it in doubt when the war would be ended. He wished he could
be convinced that this was the most effectual mode. But however deplorable
was the continuation of the war, he must say that, in his opinion, the only
way to obtain peace was to carry on a vigorous war—to adopt the fullest measures,
and to vote for the most ample supplies of men and money.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c4 294 words
The Petersburg Intelligencer reports the decision of Judge Gholson upon a Habeas Corpus sued out at the relation of the father, directed to the defendant, Captain Archer, of the Petersburg Volunteers, commanding him to bring up the body of George B. Lipscomb, an enlisted volunteer in his company. The infant, (between twenty and twenty-one years of age,) in answer to questions by counsel, expressed a wish to be discharged, in consequences of the distress of his mother.
The case
was argued by J.S. Edwards, Esq., for the petitioner, and by Thomas Wallace
and Wm. T. Joynes, Esqs., for the defendant, Capt. Archer. Judge Gholson
delivered a learned and lucid opinion, in which he examined the rights and
capacities of infants at common law, on whose principles, he contended, this
case was to be decided. He said, that the mode of enlistment ought
to be distinctly declared by statute before it shall be allowed to change
or impair private rights under the common law. The act of 18th
May, 1846, said Judge G., did not contemplate the binding enlistment of infants—and
he could find no case or authority which holds that a voluntary enlistment
in the service of the United States is a contract so clearly beneficial to
the infant as to be absolutely binding upon him at common law. The
Judge stated, in conclusion, that if the application had rested on the petition
of the father alone, without the concurrence of the minor, he should probably
have remanded the prisoner. But as, in this case, the minor concurs
in the petition of the father, (a fact which distinguishes this from some
of the case in the books, which otherwise have some resemblance to it,) he
must therefore discharge him—which was accordingly done.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c4 326 words
The Union holds the following cheering language upon two questions which now engage the attention of Congress and the Country:
“We warn the ‘National Intelligencer’ and its allies not to deceive themselves. The country is in war. The people demand that it should be prosecuted with vigor and terminated with honor. Their representatives cannot refuse the necessary supplies of men, money, and means. The bill for organizing ten additional regiments will pass in some form or other, and, what is most desirable, in the form proposed by the secretary of War and recommended by the President.—Why change it? Why convert it into a bill for volunteers, when the 50,000 volunteer bill is not yet exhausted, and a member form New York admitted to-day that there were 17,000 volunteers who might yet be called out under that bill?—We want, also, a species of force more allied to the regular service, to act on a different principle, and to give the greatest possible efficiency to our combination of troops. This addition to the regular force besides, will, b the very terms of its enlistment, expire at the end of the war.
“Money and
loans will also be provided for; whether by taxing tea and coffee, or all
the free list, or in some other ode of taxation, we know not; but we doubt
as little, in spite of the temporary exultation of the National Intelligencer,
that, if the exigencies of the war require it, the representatives of a patriotic
and enlightened people will waive their own prejudices, and lay an adequate
duty upon tea and coffee, and other articles of the free list. The honor
of the country will demand the supplies; and an administration which is faithful
to its trusts, an nobly doing its duty, and carrying on a war which Congress
recognized and sanctioned in May last, must receive; as it deserves, the
support of its democratic friends, and, indeed, of every patriotic member.”
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 12, 1847 RE47v43n74p4c4 768 words
Petersburg still continues her good work of contributing to the country’s cause. On Wednesday afternoon, a large meeting of the citizens was held, to make arrangements for furnishing an equipping the second company of Petersburg Mexican Volunteers, Capt. Wm. M. Robinson.
The gallant veteran, Gen. D. C. Butts, was in the chair, and Wm. R. Drinkard, Secretary. After eloquent and patriotic addresses from Messrs. Wm. Robertson, S., T. S. Gholson and Tim Rives, a resolution was unanimously adopted, requisition the Common Hall to appropriate two thousand five hundred dollars to equip this second Company.
On the same evening a special meeting of the Hall was held, and this liberal and spirited appropriation was made.
We regret that we have not room for the Petersburg Republican’s graphic sketch of the interesting scenes, which took place on Saturday evening and Sunday morning last, on the occasion of the departure of Capt. F. H. Archer’s company of volunteers for Old Point. On Saturday evening, the ladies of Petersburg, through their organ, Judge James H. Gholson, presented to the Petersburg volunteers, commanded by Capt. Archer, a beautiful flag, with the Virginia coat of arms inscribed on one side, and on the other the motto “From the Ladies of Petersburg to the Petersburg Mexican Volunteers.” This sacred deposit, this “talisman to cheer them in the hour of peril and inspire them in the moment of fierce and deadly conflict,” was candied to the patriotic volunteers under the most touching circumstances. All the military companies of the town were present, with hundreds of ladies and gentlemen, who eagerly watched the imposing scene. The accomplished Judge performed his duty in the happiest style:
“Eloquent, touching, impassioned, burning words, tell from his lips, and went immediately to the hearts of his sympathizing and captivated audience; and the gushing fear o’er many a fair and many a manly cheek gave strong assurance that his sentiments and emotions were but common to all who heard him. The flag was received by Captain Archer, who returned thanks for the compliment to himself and company in a very few but very appropriate remarks.”
Mr. William Robertson, Sr., then presented to Captain Archer a splendid sword, belt and sash in the name of the members of the Bar of Petersburg. John W. Syme, Esq., next arose, and in the nam of the following gentlemen, viz R. B. Bolling, Benjamin Jones, Robert Leslie, Joseph Bragg, J. V. Willcox, John Rowlett, A.G. Mcliwaine, William E. Hinton, David Dunlop, D.W. Bragg, J. Branch, Goodman Davis, B. H. May, John L. Merterns & Co., James Orr, Moses Paul, and A.L. Smith, presented to Lieutenants F. Pegram, D.A. Weisiger and P.A. Peterson, each, a most beautiful sword, belt, sash and epaulettes, as tokens of their unwavering confidence and esteem. “Mr. Syme’s Remarks were characterized by even more than his usually eloquent and impressive manner, and were admirably suited to the occasion, and the pleasing but melancholy circumstances by which that occasion was surrounded. Each of the gallant Lieutenants made a short and appropriate reply, which closed the ceremony. The volunteers were then escorted through the principal streets fo the town to their Barracks, by the different military companies, under the command of Captain Garland of the artillery, and night fall found many returning form that rare but interesting scene bowed down under the influence of mingled emotions of pride and grief.”
The parting scene next morning was full of touching incidents. We are compelled to omi, the beautiful reflections of the Petersburg Republican upon the scene, and to content ourselves with the following. “About seven o’clock the volunteers, escorted by all the military companies of the town, arrived at the depot. Captain Archer arranged his men in double ranks, the front rank facing the rear, in open order, through which the military and citizens, commanded by Captain Garland, passed, shaking hands with every man of the volunteers, and, amid a torrent of scalding tears, asking God to bless them, in such terms as tumultuous hearts and almost palsied tongues would allow. The prayers offered to Heaven on that occasion are no doubt recorded on high, and will avail in behalf of those young men, for there was a multitude of hearts ‘that agreed touching one thing.’ They prayed for the blessings of God to rest upon the young volunteers.
“They are
gone, for a foreign land—far, far from their homes and friends—they have departed. They have pledged their lives and their honor in defence of a holy and a
just cause. May the God of battles bless, preserve and protect them—Amen
and Amen!”
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p1c6 444 words
MORE “AID AND COMFORT”
In the Massachusetts Legislature, a few days since, Mr. Caleb Cushing asked leave to introduce a resolution appropriating the sum of 20,000 dollars for the equipment and support of the Massachusetts volunteers for the Mexican war. He stated that he wished to have the resolution received and referred to a select committee.
Mr. Keyes of Dedham said he should vote to refer the resolution, but sooner than vote any money which would go to maintain the “infamous war with Mexico,” he would cut off his right hand.
Mr. Bird of Foxboro’ also spoke of the “infernal slave holding Mexican war,” got up by our national administration.
The whole subject was then laid on the table by the Whig Legislature, 171 to 61. And it is because the Democratic press denounce such treasonable language and infamous proceedings, that the Whigs clamor about “a violation of the freedom of speech.” The Boston Times reviews the subject with scathing severity as follows:
“It seemed as though a bomb shell were thrown into the House, and the Whig zealots were on the floor at once. Mr. Cushing was only desirous of its reference to a special committee, so that a report might be had. Some of the Whigs were liberal enough to favor this course, but the majority showed themselves cowards and enemies of their country. A motion was made to lay the whole subject on the table, and such was its disposition by the majority. The yeas and nays were however taken, and we have the pleasure of presenting to the State and Nation the names of these recreants to the country in time of war.
“They will become marked men, and their names will go down to posterity for the slow, unmoving finger of scorn to point at. They will be placed on the same record as their prototypes—the federalists of the last war—who favored the enemy’s cause, and voted that it was unbecoming a moral and religious people to rejoice at victories gained over a British foe. Our Whig Representatives seem to have a desire to be placed in the same category. They agree ready to aid and comfort the enemy by their voice and action, but are not ready to aid and comfort the brave and chivalrous volunteers who have come forward of their own free will and accord, to fight the enemies of their country.
“Gentlemen Whigs of the majority!—Your names are on the record for history, and we leave you to your unenviable immortality!”
The next
day the Whigs, cowering under the castigation of public opinion, took “the
back track,” and the resolution was referred.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p1c6 501 words
LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA.
Wednesday, Jan. 13
SENATE.
A communication was received from the House announcing their concurrence in the amendments made to several unimportant bills by the Senate.
Mr. WALLACE, from the committee on General Laws, reported the two following bills, each with several amendments: “An act to facilitate the transfer of stock in joint stock companies in this State”—(Passed)—and “An act authorizing a loan by the Winchester and Potomac Railroad, and for other purposes”—(On motion of Mr. McMULLEN, laid on the table.)
The CHAIR appointed the following joint committee to enquire into the “arrangements” of the Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad Company, and others: Messrs. Ambler, Woolfolk, Stanard, Cox and McMullen.
Mr. GARRETT moved to reconsider the vote upon the bill authorizing the transfer of money or property to trustees appointed by the Courts of other States.
This motion was sustained, and then, upon the further motion of Mr. GARRETT, the bill was recommitted to the Committee on General Laws.
Mr. CRUMP offered a resolution, requesting the House to return to the Senate the bill changing the Rifle Greys of King William county to a company of light infantry. Agreed to.
A communication was received from the House, embracing a series of resolutions in regard to the death of Isaac S. Pennybacker. Resolutions agreed to.
Mr. DENEALE then rose and addressed the Senate, as follows:
Mr. Speaker: In accordance with a long established custom in this House, and under a full conviction of my incompetency to the task, I rise, not for the purpose of entering into a lengthened eulogium on the character of the late Isaac S. Pennybacker, whose death we are now called on to lament—but with the intentions of making a few remarks in regard to his exalted worth and integrity. Coming as he did from my Senatorial District, I should feel that I did injustice to his memory were I not to advert, however briefly, to some of hi numerous virtues. As a man, his talents and integrity have always secured him the respect of all who have been honored with his acquaintance; as a father and a husband, he was most kind and affectionate; as a neighbor and a friend, his conduct was such as to dear him to every one whose privilege it was to reside in his section of the country. Not only have our State and the family and friends of the deceased suffered an irreparable lose, but the U.S. Senate has lost the assistance and counsel of one of its most able and intelligent members—a loss which will be long and seriously felt. Since it has pleased Almighty God, in his wise providence, to remove from amongst us our meritorious friend, let us endeavor to emulate his virtues and cherish in our families an undying respect for his memory. And when we shall have been called from this world, may we spend with him a glorious immortality in Heaven.
On motion of Mr. DENEALE,
THE Senate adjourned.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p1c3 1210 words
CLOTHING FOR THE VOLUNTEERS
The following communication from the Governor was laid before the Senate of Virginia on Tuesday last. On motion of Mr. Wallace it was read, and referred to the Committee on the Militia:
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Jan. 11, 1847
To the General Assembly.
I communicate here with a letter form the Field Officers of the Regiment of infantry Volunteers, now nearly ready to embark for Mexico, in regard to further supplies of clothing, which I beg leave earnestly to commend to the immediate attention of the General Assembly.
Should it be deemed expedient to supply the clothing for our volunteers in the manner suggested, the State may be reimbursed by receiving from the General Government the commutation allowed for clothing the Volunteers, or so much thereof as may be requisite—or may leave it to be paid for by each man as the clothing is received by him—for which purpose it may be necessary to appoint an agent on the part of the State unless the necessity thereof can be obviated through the agency of some of the departments of the U.S. Army.
The plan herewith suggested for keeping our Regiments well supplied, I deem important to the health, comfort, and military appearance of the men.
Very respectfully,
WM. SMITH.
City of Richmond, 8th Jan., 1847.
Sir; The undersigned, the field officers of the 1st Regiment of Volunteers infantry, beg leave respectfully to represent to your Excellency the propriety of some adequate provision for supplying the non-commissioned officers and privates of the Regiment with clothing, after the present supply shall be exhausted. It is unnecessary for us to inform your Excellency of the great suffering which the volunteers now serving in Mexico have undergone, for want of proper clothing. Their fate shows us what must be that of the men composing the Virginia regiment, unless steps are taken in time to avert the evils that attend service in a distinct and hostile country, where supplies of clothing cannot be procured.—It is true that the United States government has made such provision as, under the circumstances, it was practicable for it o make. It has allowed to the volunteers commutation for the clothing to which soldiers are entitled, the volunteers being required to provide their own clothing; but your Excellency will readily perceive that it will be impossible for them to supply themselves, in a foreign and hostile country; although they may receive pay enough for that purpose, if the supplies were at hand, and could be procured at reasonable prices, a thing that is not the case in Mexico.
The volunteers are dependent upon the susutlers for any article of clothing they may need, and from the information we have received, only the most inferior articles are furnished by them, and those at the most exorbitant prices; in fact, some little experiences on other occasions have given us an opportunity of knowing the utter impossibility of a volunteer soldier’s being able to supply himself with anything like a sufficient amount of clothing, out of the commutation paid him, when he is left to the extortions of those who hover around a camp, for the purpose of pouncing upon the poor soldier’s pittance to the moment he receives it.
The Virginia regiment has been supplied, or will be supplied, before its departure, with as comfortable clothing for six months as the circumstances of the case would permit; but unless the war is speedily closed, the men in a very few months will require summer clothing, which they have not now; and there are many casualties attending a campaign that might deprive some of the men of the clothing with which they go provide, and leave them in a state of utter destitution, that it would be impossible to remedy.—With a full knowledge of the difficulties and privations that are before us, we cannot depart without doing all in our power to have such provision made for the men entrusted to our command, as may be necessary for their comfort and health, so far as these may be secured in a camp.
We are aware of your Excellency’s earnest desire to send into the field a regiment that shall be creditable to Virginia, and we cordially acknowledge your zealous efforts to make it such. It is, therefore, with pleasure that we appeal to you to call the attention of the Legislature to this subject, and ask that it take the matter I hand, and adopt such measures as its wisdom may prompt. We have made out an estimate of the clothing which will be required by the men during the next Summer and Winter. From that estimate we have discarded everything intended for display, and we ask nothing for ourselves or the commissioned officers of the regiment.
It will require an appropriation of thirty-thousand dollars to carry out the plan proposed by us, which is to have the clothing of the men made by contract, and sent through the Quartermaster’s Department, to such point as may be necessary, and issued to the men in the quantities named in the estimate, which is herewith submitted; and that a donation of it be made to them; or, that it may be sold to them at costs and charges. There are many considerations which recommend this plan; it will enable the men to obtain a certain supply of comfortable clothing at reasonable prices; the regiment would present a uniform appearance; its distinctive character would be preserved; its efficiency increased; and the assurance that their comfort was cared for at home, would keep alive in the hearts of the men that love of their native State, which would stimulate them to deeds that might place her among the foremost of her sisters who have gathered laurels upon the fields of Mexico.
We mean to cast no imputations upon the Government of the United States; we acknowledge that it has done all that it was practicable to do in this matter. Having no control over the uniform of the volunteers, it could but pay them commutation for their clothing, which is sufficient for the purpose, provided it could be laid out to advantage.
But we think we will not ask in vain, when we call upon Virginia to extend her fostering care to her sons who go from her bosom to he field of battle, to die, if need be, for the honor of their glorious mother; and we feel assured that, to Virginia, her name, and the honor of her sons, are dearer than money.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servants,
Signed,
JNO. F. HAMTRAMCK Col. Comd’g.
THOS. B. RANDOLPH, Lieut. Col.
J.A. EARLY, Major.
To his Excellancy Wm. SMITH,
Governor of Virginia.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p1c4 124 words
INTERESTING FROM CAMPEACHY
An arrival this morning puts us in possession of accounts to the 22d ult. A letter of that date states that Campeachy has positively dispatched a force
of 2500 men, which was joined by 500 on the road with 12 pieces of artillery
all well equipped, with a view to compel the government at Merida to succumb
to the pronunciamento of Campeachy of 8 h December. The object of the
pronunciamento and of this movement, is declared to e to maintain the neutrality
of the peninsula as between the United States and Mexico, and put down the
government which they say ahs wed the country to Santa Anna. The people
of Campeachy have elected Don Domingo Barret Provisional Governor.—N.O. Mercury
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c1
LATE AND IMPORTANT INTELLIGENCE FROM THE SEAT OF WAR.
From the New Orleans Times
By the arrival here yesterday of the U.S. Transport Steamer Alabama, Capt. Windle, which left Brasos on the 3d instant, we have received intelligence from the several divisions of the army up to a late date.
It appears that the reports which have been in circulation regarding the advance of Santa Anna on Saltillo have been entirely premature, and the statement that was published of his being, at the date of our last advices from that place, within three days’ march of it, is entirely without foundation. There was, however, some cause for the rumor, of which the following are the particulars:
General Worth on the 16th ultimo received information from two scouts that the Mexican General-in0chief had left San Luis Potosi, at the head of a body of 15,000 cavalry, with the intention to fall on the American division at Saltillo, which he imagined he could easily crush. After this, he proposed attacking General Wool, and if similar success attended him, to repair to Monterey and capture or destroy the magazines and public stores which lay there. General Worth, without attaching more importance to the report than it seemed to merit, forthwith dispatched expresses to Generals Taylor, Wool and Butler, acquainting them with what he had heard, leaving it entirely to them to act in the premises. The express overtook Gen’l Taylor a short distance from Monterey, on the rout to Victoria. He immediately returned to his old encamping ground near Monterey, with the whole of his division, and then awaited further advices. After remaining three days, during which he received information of the improbability of the report of Santa Anna’s advance on Saltillo, he again took up the line of march, and proceeded onward to Victoria. Meanwhile, General Wool, who had been informed of the rumor current at Saltillo, called in all his detached commands, and and at the head of his division, 3000 strong, quitted Parras on the 18th ultimo, and by arrangements previously made, was to enter Saltillo on the 23d at farthest, pushing forward with all practicable speed. General Butler had previously reached Saltillo from Monterey. During this time the intelligence of the reported advance of Santa Anna had reached other more distant points of the line of occupation; and troops, already under orders to march toward Monterey, hastened their progress onward.
It appears that Generals Taylor and Worth, on mature reflection, readily discovered the improbability of the report of Santa Anna’s advance on, and near proximity to, Saltillo, from the following facts: 1st . The distance between San Louis de Potosi and Saltillo was too great to admit of the possibility of the march of so large a body as 15,000 men, without timely notice being afforded to the American General to prepare for his reception. 2dly. The ground between the two cities is extremely bare of verdure or other means of sustenance for man and beast- 90 miles of which, as is well known, being an arid desert, divest of fountain, running stream, or any other source of water, besides affording not the least chance of getting food or fodder, being almost uninhabited, throughout its wide extent. The report of the Mexican scouts, however, is said to have been corroborated, by information received at Saltillo, in a letter from an English merchant at San Louis de Potosi, who stated that Santa Anna had positively left that city, at the head of a numerous body of cavalry. Even now, in those parts of Mexico, occupied by our troops, it is admitted that Santa Anna is out with a considerable mounted force, but with objects far different from those attributed to him, by scouts. It was stated in the letter above alluded to, that the Mexicans’ intention were to hurry forward, and occupy the only practicable pass in the mountains lying between the divisions of Generals Worth and Wool, thus intercepting their communications. After realizing his anticipated success against them, by cutting them up in detail, he was then to advance on Monterey, &c. These announcement are now proved to be premature, and things are proceeding in their former train, accelerated a little by the alarm which has just subsided.
For much of the above information we are indebted to Major Butler, [a passenger by the Alabama,] Paymaster U.S. Army, attached to the division of Gen. Wool, who visits this city on business, which will detain him here about a week, when he returns to head quarters. Major Butler left Parras on the 17th ultimo, where General Wool’s division then lay. He states that the troops were in excellent health and spirits, no casualty of moment having occurred for some time. The inhabitants of the country which the troops had traversed from San Antonio, had manifested the greatest good feeling towards the Americans; not a symptom of that hostility which the population of the valley of the Rio Grande had so frequently exhibited, had been observed.
Brasos.- We are under many obligations to Gen. Jessup for his politeness in communicating some interesting particulars regarding the feelings observable amongst the Mexican population, at different points on the Rio Grande. It seems that a species of moral barometer exists there, if we take the trouble to study their character. On the eve of any great event, (the battle of Monterey, for example,) a considerable falling off in the numbers of Mexicans seeking employment takes place. At each new success of the American arms, the applications for service redouble. With the denunciation of the Mexican government staring them in the face, they are afraid to work for the invaders; but as time rolls on, and our conquests seem to be consolidated, their confidence returns, and they are anxious to join us heart and hand.
Monterey.- Major Butler was in Monterey on the 23d ult, at the time Gen Taylor was encamped there. Col Harney was in that city, on his way to Saltillo. Everything seemed satisfactory, regarding the conduct of the inhabitants, as to peace and tranquility. One regiment, it is presumed, will be sufficient to form its garrison.
March of Troops, &c- On his way from Monterey to Camargo, Maj Butler met the Kentucky mounted riflemen, with Gen Marshall at their head, and on of the Ohio regiments- both corps on their way to the former place.
General Scott- On the 1st inst, on his way down the Rio Grande, a days’ distance from Camargo, Gen Scott was met proceeding upward, on the steamboat Corvette.
At Matamoros, Point Isabell and Brazos, things were in statu quo.
The remains of the following officers were brought over on the Alabama:
Col. Watson, Baltimore Regiment.
Capt. Isaac Holmes, Georgia Regiment.
Capt. Ridgely, Flying Artillery.
Capt. Gillespie, Texas Regiment.
Lieut. Graham, Infantry.
Mr. Thomas, Texas Rangers.
Mr. Pierson, Texas Rangers.
Passengers- General Jessup, Quarter Master General and suite; Majors Butler, Boyd and Comstock; Captains Long, Hoyle; Lieut Armstrong; Messrs H McQueen, Mills, Clark and Robinson, and 240 sick and discharged soldiers. Messrs Mills and Robinson are the committee from Baltimore to conduct thither the remains of Col Watson, Capt Ridgely, and Lieut Graham. Lieut Boyle, of the Baltimore battalion, died on the morning of the 6th inst, on board the Alabama, while coming up the river.
Tampico- Who are very much indebted to the gentleman who has so kindly placed at our disposal the following items of intelligence from Tampico. In a letter dated Tampico, the 26th ult., the writer states that a report was current that a body of 500 American troops had taken quiet possession of Victoria, the capital of the department. Indeed the whole of the inhabitants of Tamaulipas are prepared to throw off the yoke of the central Government, provided the United States will guarantee them permanent protection. A letter has been received there, dated San Luis de Potosi, the 23d November, which stated Santa Anna’s force at that time did not exceed 7,000 men- this was from a most reliable source, but the date of the letter is rather distant. Col. Riley, and Gens. Quitman and Pillow, were rapidly advancing on Victoria. The 500 men above alluded to, are no doubt part of the force of Col. Riley.
Saltillo- Major Butler passed through Saltillo on his way hither. Here
he found Genereal Butler, whose severe wound in the leg was slowly healing.
It will be a satisfaction to his numerous friends to learn that he is again
able to mount his horse, and in a very short time, will be, in all respects,
“himself again.” The two Generals, Butler and Worth, were of opinion that
Santa Anna was too astute to risk himself in a field fight; he would patiently
await the unfolding chapter of accidents, behind the fortifications of San
Luis de Potosi, confessedly, even by our own topographical engineer officers,
the strongest place in Mexico, after San Juan de Ulloa.
[MPR]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c1 448 words
LATEST FROM MONTEREY.—The United States Steamer Alabama, Captain Windle, arrived last evening from Brazos Santiago, which she left on Sunday, the 3d instant. Among her passengers are General Jesup and staff, and thirty others in the cabin, and two hundred and forty sick and discharged soldiers. Lieutenant Mills of Baltimore has kindly furnished us with the following memoranda.
All idea of an immediate engagement has past over, and it would now seem that Santa Anna is only to be met in San Luis Potosi, where it appears he means to stand the hazard of the die.
General Taylor, as we had been previously advised, countermarched when on his route to Victoria, and was approaching Saltillo when he met Colonel May and his squadron, who had pressed on in advance of him, returning to Monterey. Colonel May being informed there of the actual state of things at Saltillo, he returned and recommenced his march to Victoria. It turns out that the alarm originated thus: General Worth intercepted a letter from the Governor of New Leon to a partisan Mexican General, whose name our informant could not recollect, telling him to advance and attack on Saltillo on a certain day, and that he had so arranged it that the Mexican inhabitants would rise, join them, and defeat the American forces. Add to this, a large cavalry force was reported on the advance from San Luis Potosi. With reference to the letter, General Worth enclosed it to the author, telling him that if again detected in any such proceeding he would be shot. The advanced cavalry turned out to be a foraging party, pretty numerous to be sure, but nothing more.
The forces at Saltillo have been considerably strengthened. The Kentucky and Ohio Regiments under Gen. Butler, have marched on there, and the Kentucky Cavalry were to march for that point on the 23d ult. Monterey too, under command of Col. Garland, is considerably reinforced. The two Indiana Regiments, the Kentucky Mounted Cavalry, and about 700 of the recently enlisted regulars were on their way to Monterey. Col. Morgan of the 2d Regiment of Ohio volunteers who has command of Camargo, is engaged in fortifying the place.
General Wool’s column had reached a point within nine mile of General Worth’s division at Saltillo.
General Taylor, with all of his disposable force, left Monterey on the 23d December for Victoria.
Victoria is to be the point for the concentration of all the forces of our army.
General Scott,
we learn from a source entitled to all credit was to proceed to Victoria or
wherever General Taylor could be found, to confer with him as to the best
plan of conducting the campaign.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c2 82 words
We occupy much of our space this morning with the eloquent and patriotic remarks of Mr. Bedinger, in vindication of the Mexican War.—His rebuke of the factious and mischievous course of those politicians who decry their own country, and denounce a just and righteous war, which has been forced upon us, will be read with interest, and cannot but exerts a sound influence upon the moral tone of the community. Mr. B. speaks the sentiments of Virginia, and of the country.
See the Congressional Globe, Januray 13, 1847, pp. 84-85.
http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=llcg&fileName=018/llcg018.db&recNum=691
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c4 727 words
THE NEWS FROM THE ARMY
To the surprise of nearly everyone, yesterday’s Southern mail informed us that the recent reports of the advance of Santa Anna upon Saltillo with 20 or 30,000 men, were without foundation, and that Gen. Worth was deceived in his information. By the extracts from the New Orleans papers in another column, it will be seen upon what data he proceeded to call for reinforcements. The following article from the New Orleans Bulletin sets forth the inconveniences consequent upon this false alarm, in deranging and retarding the operations and movements of the army. This is to be regretted—but the occurrence shows how promptly and successfully, in case of an emergency, our troops can be put in motion and concentrated against the enemy. This fact is important, in proving the skill and energy of our officers and troops, and in urging the necessity of constant vigilance:
“Gen. Worth forwarded the information to Gen. Worth, who broke up his encampment and started forward, by forced marches, to his relief. Gen. Butler moved forward, in like manner, from Monterey, with his whole force; and so pressing was the danger considered, that the large depot of stores and provisions at Camargo were left with but a slight protection, and all the available force there was also sent forward. But the most unfortunate result was with the army under Gen. Taylor. He had advanced seventy miles on the route to Victoria, and had retraced his steps, with all his troops back to Monterey, on his way to Saltillo. He would, however, again move forward twenty days, and destroyed the combination of his movements with other detachments that were ordered up to Victoria, particularly that under Gen. Patterson, from Matamoras.”
Some of the accounts state, that it was reported at Saltillo that Santa Anna was making every exertion to bring about tan adjustment of the difficulties between the two countries—and, moreover, that the Mexican Congress had accepted our overture of peace, and had agreed to send us an agent to negotiate. We put no confidence in the latter—but we have always been of opinion that Santa Anna was at heart favorable to peace, and would, if possible, bring over the Mexican people to the same sentiments. His “brave words” may sound otherwise—but his acts certainly do not show him to be an uncompromising enemy of pacific negotiations.
The Union of Wednesday night, though not furnished with the news received by us yesterday morning, does not attach much consequence to the “alarming rumors” which had excited so much anxiety. It quotes a letter from an officer at Brazos Santiago, on the 28th December, which expresses the opinion that “a sufficient force was, doubtless, collected at Saltillo to meet the emergency; and if Santa Anna’s movement was anything more than a fiend, he has unquestionably been repulsed.”
The Union says:
“A letter from Major General Scott, now commanding all the land forces in Mexico, dated December 28, from Brazos Santiago, states that he should leave the next day via Matamoras and Camargo, in search of official news, by which he should be governed accordingly. Referring to the reports of the movement of the enemy, he states that, in the meantime, events may take him to Monterey; and that, “if Santa Anna be on the offensive, he must be repulsed,” &c.
“One of the letters we have seen from the Rio Grande of so recent date as December 28, (the latest,) expressly states: “We are here without accurate information, and the General-in-chief, now commanding all the forces in Mexico, has determined to move rapidly forward, with the view of ascertaining facts upon which he can rely. We should have been off to-day, but for the difficulty of landing our saddle horses form the steamer yesterday.”
The Union also publishes an interesting letter from Gen. Taylor at Monterey, Dec. 8, giving a sketch of the position of his forces. We shall publish it hereafter. He had no apprehension of the movements of Santa Anna.
We repeat
that there is now no danger of a fight at Saltillo. Santa Anna is either
anxious for peace, or he is too cunning and prudent to risk a battle with
the American army. Some accounts state that his force at San Luis has
been much exaggerated—it not exceeding 10,000, with daily desertions.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c5 216 words
HONORS TO THE DEAD
The mortal
remains of the following brave and lamented officers and soldiers were brought
to the city of New Orleans, on the 6th inst., by the steamship
Alabama, from the Brazos Santiago Lieut. Col. Watson, Lieut. Raham,
Herman Thomas, George W. Pearson, Capt. Gillespie of the Texas Rangers and
Capt. Holmes of the Georgia Regiment. On the arrival of the steamship
guns were fired from the Place d’Armes and Lafayette Square during the day
and the flags in public places worn at half mast.—Meetings of the Common Council
of the city and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, (of which some of the
officers were prominent members) were held, and resolutions adopted appointing
a committee of seven to take charge of the bodies of the dead, to convey
them to the Municipal Hall, there to remain till the 8th, when
a grand military and civic procession was to e formed for the purpose of
conveying them on board the steamboat Declaration. The remains are to
be conveyed to the city of Baltimore and may be expected to pass through this
city in a day or so. Will not the citizens of Richmond unite in paying
a proper tribute of respect to these gallant soldiers who fell in defence
of their country?
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c5 107 words
By a recent order, Gen. Butlers command extends to all the posts from Monterey to Camargo, and from thence o the mouth of the Rio Grande. Lieutenant Colonel Garland, of the third infantry, is to be Governor of Monterey.
In less than
two hours after the receipt at Camargo of the news of Santa Anna’s rumored
attack upon Saltillo, Brigadier General Lane’s command (Indiana Regiment)
was on the march; and in less than twelve hours he was followed by Brigadier
General Marshall, with the Kentucky Cavalry and Captain Ker’s Company of United
States Dragoons, intending to reach Monterey by forced marches. This
is American energy and Spirit.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c5 195 words
CAPT. W.B. ARCHER’S COMPANY.—Capt. Wm. B. Archer’s company of Volunteers were presented on Wednesday to the Governor. Mr. Tunstall, of Pittsylvania, made the presentation speech, and a very happy one it was. Gov. Smith responded in a style, the felicity and originality of which was to be admired when we consider how his store-house o patriotic figures has been drawn upon by the very numerous speeches of the kind it has been his task to make. Capt. Archer made a brief speech, pledging his men to the service, and promising tat the flag which the State is to present to the Regiment, shall not be tarnished while there is a drop of blood in their veins.—Yesterday’s Times.
The Whig
says this third company of volunteers organized in this city, (though many
of its members came from other parts of the State,) has been organized, under
the name of the “Marshall Guards,” by the appointment of Wm. B. Archer, of
Richmond, as Captain; L. M. Shumaker, of Franklin, 1st Lieutenant;
R.H. Keeling, of Richmond, 1st 2d Lieutenant; John M. Blakey, jr.,
of Richmond, 2d 2d Lieutenant. The non-commissioned officers are not
yet appointed.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p2c7 110 words
The New Orleans Picayune contains the Mexican account of the transaction
at Los Angeles in California. Instead of 150 Americans seamen being
massacred by the Indians and Mexicans under Gen. Flores, it appears that not
one was killed—but that 27 were made prisoners under capitulation, and 3
were wounded; one Mexican was killed. The capitulation allowed the Americans
to go on board their ships, with their arms and private property. The
Mexican account stated that 300 men were afterwards landed from their ships,
and took possession of the town, of what they intended to retain permanent
possession—This is the Mexican version of the affair, as the Picayune
observes.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c1
STILL LATER
From the N.O. Picayune, Jan. 3.
By the arrival at a late hour last night of the U.S. steamer Edith, Capt. Couillard, we have three days’ later dates from Brazos Santiago. She left Brazos on the 30th ult and brings confirmation of the reported advance of Santa Anna with a large force upon Saltillo. It was reported that the Mexican army was nearly 30,000 strong.
When Gen. Worth’s express reached Monterey, General Taylor had only gone six or eight miles on his march to Victoria, and the troops under Generals Twiggs and Quitman were but 12 miles in advance. Orders were immediately issued to this division to retrace its steps and proceed to Saltillo.
Gen. Butler, who was left in command of Monterey, had already marched with all the troops he could collect to join Gen. Worth at Saltillo.
Before the express reached Camargo Gen. Lane had started fro Saltillo with his command- this was the 20th- Gen. Marshall set out next morning, taking with him the remainder of the forces, with the exception of Capts. Hunter and Swartwout’s commands which were left to protect that point. The troops from Camargo were on a forced march, to reach Saltillo in time for a battle, reports having prevailed for several days before positive advices were received of the movements of Santa Anna.
Gen. Wool was ninety miles from Saltillo at the last advices from him, and it was supposed he would join Gen. Worth in season to assist in repelling the enemy.
There was a rumor that Santa Anna had thrown a body 17,000 men between Gen. Worth and Gen. Taylor, to prevent a junction of the American forces. This report was not credited, nor does it seem probable that it is true, as the main road to Monterey passes through Saltillo. There is a circuitous mountain road which avoids Saltillo, but it is not favorable to the march of an army, and is impracticable for orduance.
It was the impression of gentlemen who came passengers in the Edith, and with whom we have conversed, that a battle was fought about the 25 ult. It was thought, however, that Gen. Taylor had reached Saltillo before that time, and also Gen. Twigg’s, Gen. Quitman’s, Gen. Butler’s and Gen. Wool’s commands. It was likewise hoped that the troops from Camargo would also arrive at Saltillo in good season. If these expectations were realized, Gen. Taylor had about 7000 men to oppose Santa Anna. Our informants think Santa Anna’s army was overrated; but no positive knowledge was had of his exact numbers.
The whole valley of the Rio Grande was in a state of great ferment. Apprehensions of an attack were entertained at Camargo, Matamoros and other points, from the rancheros under Canales. The withdrawal of so many troops from the river left the valley exposed to danger. At Matamoros, Col. Clark had called upon the citizens to enroll themselves for service, and at the Brazos Gen. Jessup had done the same thing. Both these points were sadly deficient in both men and arms. It was thought Canales had 2000 men under him, and that the large supply of goods at Matamoros, and the exposed condition of that city, might quicken his courage.
Gen. Scott arrived at the Brazos in the 28th ult. The following day he preceded to the mouth of the Rio Grande and was yet at the point when the Edith left, waiting the arrival of the horses belonging to the regiment of mounted riflemen, when it was understood he would proceed immediately up the river to Camargo.
Capt. Wayne has been transferred from the staff of Maj. Gen. Jessup to that of Gen. Scott, and was to accompany him on his tour of observation.
The news leaves a painful anxiety to learn the progress of events. The
impression amongst the passengers that a battle had been fought was so strong
that we have almost imbibed the belief.
[MPR]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c1 257 words
Correspondence of the N.O. Picayune
Tampico, Dec. 23, 1846
Gentlemen—The unexpected detention of the packet till this late hour, enables me to give the following important information, just received by me from a reliable source. The information is contained in a letter to a commercial house here, and is dated Mexico the 16th inst.
The substance of it is, that eh Mexican Congress have decided that the war shall not cease, nor will they receive commissioners to treat for peace until every hostile foot has left the soil of Mexico and every ship that lines the coast is withdrawn. They have further resolved that they will accept of no foreign intervention whatever to bring about a peace.
The letter further states that the $500,000 loan guarantied by the clergy is exhausted, and no new loan is yet authorized, nor does the writer know where it is to come from.
This action on the part of Mexico will at once determine the public action of our Government, and we may now look out for a protracted and perhaps bloody war. I predict it will end in the conquest of all Mexico north of the base of this city—the line extending west to the Pacific—and that this will become an American town. If so, this will be a great place for business, and a safe one for investments in property. The resources of the country north of this are inexhaustible.—When more at leisure I will refer to what these resources are.
Yours, very
truly, &c.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c1 147 words
We yesterday conversed with a gentleman from Tampico: he left there on
the 27th ult. A letter dated the 8th ult., at
San Juan de Arosa, had been received by a merchant in Tampico—The writer,
who was his partner in business, informed him that Santa Anna’s force at San
Luis de Potosi was then 37,000. On the 10th, two days subsequently,
7,000 of them—cavalry—under the command of Col. Gonzales, were to leave—for
the direction of Victoria, it was supposed. If the contemplated attack
on Saltillo, b Gen. Santa Anna, should be successful, then an attack would
be made on Tampico by Col. Gonzales. The bitter hostility of the whole
people of the country is now aroused against our army, and they pant for
an opportunity to carry it into execution. It is one which we hope
will soon be given them.—N.O. Delta.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c1 615 words
Correspondence of N.O. Delta
U.S. Army of Invasion, MONTEREY,
December 11, 1846.
Gentlemen: It is now near the middle of December and still we have nothing in the shape of weather to indicate that the year is passing away; ad should some Rip Van Winkle of a fellow walkup here now, he would be looking for Mayday rather than Christmas, so April-like does everything seem around. For mild and pleasant weather this place of Monterey is hard to beat.
A gentleman came in from Saltillo last night, having left on the morning of the 8th. The Mexican cavalry, of whom mention was made in a previous letter, as advancing, had reached the Salado, within about fifty leagues of Saltillo. Their numbers were reckoned at full five thousand, under the command of Gen. Gonzales, and a fair proportion of them rancheros. There had arisen some doubts at Saltillo as to their intentions, and many speculations were advanced. Some were of opinion that in their orders to reconnoiter the country, in anticipation of our advance, they were instructed to proceed as far as the Salado, and no further. Others seem to think it is grass, and not he Americans, they are after, as the banks of the above named stream are said to afford excellent grazing. A third party, however, attach more importance to the movement, and express the opinion that their destination is Saltillo, and their object that the dislodgement of Gen. Worth. Some of the principal Mexican families in that place are of a like belief, and have hinted to the General the propriety of taking an advantageous position beyond the city. Gen. Wroth is perfectly easy in the meantime, and, whilst every precaution is taken against surprise, sleeps well.
Something later form San Luis Potosi—per Mexicans—8,00 men had left that place for Victoria, without artillery or wagons, and would be enabled to reach I in a short time, by going over a light chain of mountains.
In looking
at the Mexican army as it was in San Luis a short time since—over 30,000
strong—the question arise, what is to be done with these men? How can
a government, without money or credit, sustain them in the field for any
length of time?—30,000 mouths are difficult to feed, at all times, by countries
whose resources are boundless in comparison to those of Mexico; and for her
to make any advantageous move, she must do it quickly, else even the magic
name of Santa Nana will fail to keep discord from their ranks. It is
out of the question to keep so large a body of men, and the number daily
increasing, at or even near one point; and either a forward or retrograde
movement must be made in a very few days. As I said before, if, with
overpowering numbers, the General thinks he can successfully assail some weak
post in our extended line, he will do it; but if no such opportunity presents
itself, it is a difficult task even to conjure up a movement for him, unless
a man would recklessly say, that he’d countermarch his troops to the capital
of his own country, and then assume and maintain himself in dictatorial power. If it be true that troops have left San Luis for Victoria, I cannot believe
they will fight Taylor there, nor do I for a moment suppose that gen. T.
anticipates such a thing himself. There is one thing that I am well
convinced of in these speculative times: unless the Mexicans open the ball,
there will be no dancing to the music of cannon for several months to come,
unless it be on the seaboard.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c2
Twenty-Ninth Congress, 2nd. Session. Monday, Jan. 11
See Congressional Globe, pp. 165-166
http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=llcg&fileName=018/llcg018.db&recNum=196
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c4 1120 words
NEWS FROM THE SEAT OF WAR!
Knowing the anxiety of the public in regard to “rumors of war” at Saltillo, we have endeavored to collate the accounts in the New Orleans papers, received yesterday. In another column will be found the intelligence reported by the Picayune of the 3rd January. All the New Orleans journals seem to have no doubt that a battle was to be fought at Saltillo about the 25th December. They awaited, with great impatience, the arrival of the steamer Alabama, detained at Brazos, for the purpose of bringing over dispatches relating to the movement of the Mexican army.
General Worth’s force amounted to at least two thousand strong, and the most effective, complete and best drilled division of our army. General Wool’s force of about three thousand men was about ninety miles off, and it was thought that he would be able to reinforce worth. It was though that general Taylor, with two thousand fine hundred men, would also arrive in time—making in all a force of near eight thousand men—fully equal, says the New Orleans delta, to the whole army of Santa Anna, whose force is stated to be form twenty to thirty thousand men. That paper thinks that not only the number of Santa Anna’s force is exaggerated, but that the statement about Santa Anna’s being within four days march of Saltillo, is probably incorrect—for his battering train of heavy artillery, without which he certainly would not attack Saltillo, would embarrass and retard his march.
The Picayune has no doubt that advices have been received form General Worth, announcing the march of a large Mexican force towards Saltillo. Its correspondent doubts the practicability of General Wool forming a junction with General Worth. The Picayune says:
“It would seem good strategy on the part of the enemy to throw a large force between Saltillo and Parras, make a diversion with a portion of the troops against Gen. Worth, while the main body of the army falls upon Gen. Wool. Apprehensions that such may have been the case are discernible in our correspondence. If Santa Anna had any of the spirit and capacity of the great military commander to whom he vaingloriously likens himself, he would have done some such thing long before this. Here is the letter:
CAMARGO, Mexico, Dec.19-12 at night.
By an express last night from Gen. Worth, which arrived at half-past, 1 o’clock, we learn that Santa Anna is advancing upon Saltillo and Monterey, as is said, with 30,000 men; and all the available force from this place and vicinity is ordered up to those points with the least possible delay. At the same time a requisition has been received for a large supply of ammunition to be forwarded immediately. The express form Saltillo arrived at Monterey on the evening of the day Gen. Taylor left that place for Monte Morales, on his way to Victoria. He had probably made thirty miles from Monterey with his army, intended for the occupation of Victoria, but this intelligence will no do but cause a counter movement to sustain Monterey and Saltillo.
I do not speak certain, but think Gen. Taylor can meet Santa Anna with 6,000, and not more, as a portion of his force, under Gens. Patterson and Pillow has been withdrawn from here to hold Tampico. I know nothing of the defences at Saltillo, but Worth is there, and what any man can do, he can and will.
It strikes me that if Santa Anna has the force which is reported, that it would not be policy to bring on a decisive action now at Monterey, but by surrounding the place, cutting off supplies and communications, and detaching a portion of his force to attack the depots and connecting links with the Gulf—which must be left weak by the draining off supports for Monterey and Saltillo—that such would be his best chances for success.—This depot, for instance, which is the one form which gen. Taylor’s army draws its supplies, is without defences, and I am told is to be left with one company of artillery, one company of dragoons (not mounted,) and one regiment of Indiana volunteers; and there are “sinews of war” enough here to make “the game worth the candle.”
From last reports Gen. Wool had not yet formed a junction with Gen. Worth; and it is thought by some problematical whether he would be able to form one, in consequence of the advance of the enemy placing themselves in a position between these tow forces. I am not advised of the route these two forces. I am not advised of the route Gen. Wool’s column will take from Parras, and therefore can give no opinion as to the accuracy of hits reasoning; but one thing is certain—we are on the eve of important events, and I think by the next arrival I shall chronicle to you matters of stirring interest. We will see what we will see.
Yours truly, &c.
On the contrary the Union contains a letter from Gen. Jessup, dated Brazos San Jago, December 25th, which considers the story of Santa Anna’s march upon Worth as “mere gossip;” thinking that Santa Anna would hardly follow Gen. Worth, with Gen. Wool on his flank.
Upon the whole review of the subject, we feel satisfied that the first mail from the South may bring us news of some stirring events in the neighborhood of Saltillo. Many think that the movement of Santa Anna will be a false one, and as great a failure as his disastrous assault upon Gen. Houston at San Jacinto in 1836. For ourselves, we feel no fears for the success of our arms, should Santa Anna be so bold as to come within the range of Gen. Worth’s guns. If he (Santa Anna) be beaten now, he will be forced to retreat most ruinously across a desert and rough country. If so, we trust that Gen. Taylor will follow him up, and make the victory a decisive one.
A Captain
of the U.S. Army, just from Camargo, passed through Richmond yesterday morning
and informed a friend that he had no doubt of Santa Anna’s approach; that
Generals Taylor and Wool would certainly join Worth, and that the American
force would amount to 10 or 12,000 men. He had no fear of defeat—his
only apprehension was that the Mexican General would be too cautious to engage
in a contest and thereby prevent a decisive blow from our arms. In the
very worst aspect of affairs, this officer said, Gen. Worth could retreat
safely and without loss.—While, then, we look for a victorious result, we
await with anxiety the next intelligence.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c4 1150 words
LATER FROM MEXICO.
The Picayune of the 5th January has accounts from the city of Mexico nearly three weeks later. It seems that the news received by way of Tampico, that the Mexican Congress had decreed not to listen to negotiation until all our forces and vessels were removed, was premature. According to these last accounts, it appears that up to he 11th December, the Mexican Congress had not acted upon our overtures of peace. Had they done so, it would in all probability have been known in the squadron or noted in the Mexican papers. Lieutenant Bowers states that he had heard nothing of it up to the 21st, when he had an interview with some English officers, who are usually well informed as to the course of events in the Mexico.
The Congress of Mexico was duly installed on the night of the 5th December. The prominent members of the important committees were Senores Rejon, (the lately dismissed Secretary of State, who has quarreled with Salas and Santa Anna,) Gomez Farias, (the leader of the pure Republicans, and the friend of Rejon,) Otero, (late proprietor of a liberal journal, conducted with ability, who was so grossly affronted by the French minister, Baron de Cyprey, in the theatre,) Ex-President Herrera, Godoy and Riva Palacio. Gomez Farias is the chairman of the committee on finance, and Herrera of that war and the navy. These names show that the liberal statesmen appear to be in the ascendant in the new Congress.
The Secretary of the Treasury has submitted a project for the conversion of the foreign debt.—Two important propositions have been introduced and referred to committees—the first declaring the constitution of 1824 in force, with suitable amendments—the second, for the appointments of a committee to embody the principles entertained by the Congress, and which will be the foundation of its action in the present war. This last is the only portion of the proceedings of Congress which touches upon the war.
On the 11th a committee of five, with power to increase it to seven, was appointed to act upon the Constitution—(Rejon was a member.) The following propositions were then offered for the consideration of Congress:
“That all the officers appointed by the General Government since the 4th of August, of whatever class, should be subjected to the approval of Congress, and those who should not receive the same should not be entitled to their pay hereafter.—That whatever person or community should, by act or deed, directly or indirectly, make an attempt against the existence or the freedom of the deliberations of the Congress, should be considered a traitor. That the Executive should contract a loan to provide the States with the arms necessary to repel foreign aggression; and finally, that collectors of the revenue should make no payments save upon orders sanctioned by certain prescribed forms.”
There is an item of news, which we commend especially to those Whig journals and politicians that are in a habit of denouncing the war and their own Government. The Mexican papers copy freely from the journals in the United States opposed to the war, evidently with the view to create the belief that our country is rent by divisions on the subject of the war. Through the Havana papers the Mexicans are kept constantly well informed of what is done in the United States.
The Mexican papers seem to contain no denunciation of the “audacious north Americans” and the like stuff, which not long since filled their columns. This may indicate that they are more occupied with internal difficulties than with the war with us. The locomotor of the 14th appreheads an extraordinary attempt is intended by our navy, and puts the authorities of Vera Cruz and Alvarado on the qui vive.
From Chihuahua there is some later news: [MLD]
“A dispatch is published from Governor Angel Trias, dated the 20th of November, in which he announces that on the day previous, a body of 480 troops, part infantry and part cavalry, with four light pieces of artillery, left Chihuahua for El Paso del Norte under the command of Lieut. Col. Cuilty; with provision, &c. for one month. These forces were to join at El Paso 600 men, previously raised, and the whole were to proceed and make an attempt to surprise Gen. Kearney, who was then with a small force at Cobra, nearly two hundred miles north of that point. All classes of the citizens took part in celebrating the departure of these troops, and Governor Trias issued a proclamation on the occasion, for which we will endeavor to find room on another occasion.” [MPR]
The late revolutionary attempt at Tobasco is highly ridiculed.
Commodore Perry had gone on an expedition to Laguna, and Com. Conner is said to contemplate another expedition against Alvarado, or at least a reconnaissance.
A letter of the 2nd December, form Anton Lizardo, from an officer of the Navy, gives intelligence which conflicts with other accounts, in regard to the position of Santa Anna:
“It is the prevalent opinion at Vera Cruz, as I learned form the English officers yesterday, that Santa Anna intended to march from his present quarters upon the Capital, and to strike for a dictatorship. In that case, it is supposed he will be sustained by the regulars and opposed by the militia, and that a battle will probably ensue between the two parties.
“If Santa Anna succeeds in becoming dominant, we have a guaranty of peace, as no administration in Mexico can support the burden of a war. He is much inclined to prefer diplomacy to fighting. I hope our Government will not relax its strong arm, nor permit itself to be cajoled by this wary diplomatist.
“We understand that the McLane and a gun boat are to Winter at Tobasco, and the Vixen and a gun boat at Laguna. This will keep all quiet in that quarter.”
The gun-boat Union, taken at Tampico, was wrecked at Anton Lizardo, by running on the reef near Green Island. The officers and crew saved by the john Adams, which was near at hand.—The Mexicans sent off to the wreck and burnt her.
On the 13th, one of our frigates entered the
harbor of Vera Cruz under a flag of truce, with a view to supply some of our
shipwrecked sailors with money and clothing, and probably to attend to the
ease of Passed Midshipman Rogers, captured in reconnaissance of a powder magazine
at Vera Cruz, while he was in the undress uniform of his rank. He is
now treated, as a prisoner of war instead of a spy. The officer in
the boat with the flag of truce, found nobody to receive him, and had to
find his way to the Palace in the best manner he could. This proves
the negligence of the Mexican service on that situation.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c5 151 words
A letter received by the Picayune from the army gives some interesting particulars. According to this account, Santa Anna had left for the Capital, and not for Saltillo:
“Taylor’s light battery and Lieut. Kearney’s company of the 1st Dragoons, had arrived at Saltillo. Kearney’s company started out on a scout on the 13th December.
“The same letter, which is from a responsible source, says that a Mexican who arrived from San Luis on the 12th December, reported that Santa Anna ad left that place for the capital.
“Our correspondent informs us that the sick list of Gen. Worth’s division was very small.
“He adds
that the early occupation for Saltillo has been a fortunate one for the army,
so far as supplies were concerned. The quartermaster and commissary
had laid in a sufficient supply of lour and corn to last worth’s division
six months, and they were daily increasing the stock.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c5 67 words
It will be seen that the House of Representatives have passed, 17 to 34,
a bill to increase the army, for a limited time, by ten regiments of regular
troops, to be disbanded at the end of the war. All the Virginia delegation
voted for the bill. The opposition was made up of the Abolitionists
that voted against he war bill last Spring, and other Northern Whigs.
[MLD]
Friday, January 15, 1847 RE47v43n75p4c5 208 words
The Union, referring to the threatening aspect of Mexican affairs, uses he following language, which all true Americans will approve:
Our own Congress must now support the stand which they took in May last. They can not hesitate to furnish the amplest supplies of men and money to prosecute the war with tremendous effect. The House of Representatives have this day passed the bill for raising ten regiments of regular troops. The Committee on Finance will, in the course of a day or tow, as we understand, report a bill for raising a loan of twenty-odd millions of dollars; and we will not for one moment permit ourselves to believe that hey will not report an efficient bill for raising additional revenue to facilitate the loan. An American Congress will never refuse to lend the means of carrying on a war on which the rights and honor of their country so essentially depend. These means being provided, the Executive will be able to prosecute the war with the vigor which is necessary to “avenge the national wrongs” and to secure an honorable peace.
We have no
idea that nay member will seek to attach the proviso about slavery to any
supply bill either for war, revenue or loans.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 19, 1847 RE47v43n76p1c2 143 words
LEGISLATURE OF VIRGINIA
Friday, January 15, 1847
HOUSE OF DELEGATES
PETITIONS
The following petitions were presented and referred to appropriate committees:
By Mr. SCOTT:
Of citizens of the county of Fauquier, praying for the formation of a new
county out of said county by a plan which will place the county seat at the
town of Salem. By Mr. DUNCAN: Of citizens of Harrison and Marion for the
formation of a new county out of parts of said counties, with the seat at
the town of Shinston. By Mr. HARER: A memorial of citizens of the town
of Lexington, remonstrating against the extension of the limits of said town. By Mr. CARSON: Of John George Heist, praying that he may be exempted from
the payment of certain militia fines and that agents employed in the management
of railroads may be exempted from the ordinary militia duty.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 19, 1847 RE47v43n76p1c4 815 words
In regard to the election of Mr. Hunter to the U.S. Senate on Friday, yesterday’s Times indulges in the following speculations:
“The Whigs have, in our judgment, acted not only with a proper regard to representative duty in falling upon the least objectionable of the candidates of the opposite party, but also with a politic wisdom which, in regard to their own interests, they will never have reason to regret. It is with us a sufficient proof of the propriety of their course, that we know the administration at Washington to be bitterly opposed to the election of Mr. Hunter. His success is no concession of the Whig party to his peculiar views on most of the question s of the day. They have elected him believing that in the high station of Senator, he will be a CONSERVATIVE; that he will not be the passive instrument of the Executive will and that, especially in all questions arising out of the Mexican war, which the administration seeks to make a party issue, he will oppose all such politico military measures as the appointment of a Lieutenant General, against which he has already voted.”
We are not sufficiently acquainted with the secrets of the Democratic administration at Washington, as this Whig paper professes to be, to employ the strong words “we know,” but we feel perfectly satisfied that the Times is grossly mistaken, when it declares that the administration is “bitterly opposed to the election of Mr. Hunter.” The same slang was circulated by the Whig letter-writers, who gratuitously asserted that Secretary Mason had taken an active part against Mr. Hunter’s election, and that the editor of the Union had paid a visit to Virginia, with an especial view to the election of another distinguished Virginian. At that time the whole affair was exposed as a silly fable—and we have no doubt that the present story is made up of the same flimsy material. Admit Mr. Hunter to be opposed to the appointment of a Lieutenant General; that question will be decided at this session, when Mr. H. will retain his seat in the lower house, and when Mr. Pennybacker’s successor may be called upon to vote upon the question.
If Mr. H differs with the Administration upon that single point, does he not fully coincide with it upon the great questions of a Sub-Treasury and a Revenue Tariff, to which the Whigs are so “bitterly” hostile? Will he not stand by the Administration in taxing the office list to raise money for the prosecution of the war to a peaceful termination? In regard to the “politic wisdom” shown by the Whigs “in regard to their own interests, the times hugs an empty phantom to its bosom. The Whig party, as we said on Saturday, may expect no “aid and comfort” from Mr. Hunter. He is too thoroughly indoctrinated in the cherished principles of Virginia, to lend the least countenance to the Whigs, who on every occasion, “in season and out of season,” ridicule and contemn those principles as miserable “austractions.”
We regret that, from sinister circumstances, Mr. Hunter does not go to
the senate, basked by the vote of the whole Democratic party of the Legislature—but
we have no fear that he will not prove true to the great principles of that
party.—What the Whigs hope to gain by his election, we are unable to divine. Their course, on Friday, may be a specimen of “politic wisdom,” which
we will not inquire into. But it cannot be denied, that it was in direct
contravention to the advice of the leading Whig presses in the State, the
Richmond Whig and the Petersburg Intelligencer; and, if rumor does
not err, of some of the most prominent Whig politicians. The Editor
of the Intelligencer, the delegate from Petersburg, declared on the floor,
on Friday, that he would vote for no Democrat, but would stand by Mr. Archer
to the last, which he and some nine others did. He boldly portrayed
(not the “politic wisdom,” but) the folly of the Whigs rallying and electing
any Democrat—and said, that the services rendered to the Democratic party
by Mr. Hunter gave conclusive evidence that the Whigs could gain nothing
by the election of him or any other Democrat. There is, then, much
diversity of opinion among the Whig leaders themselves, as to the “politic
wisdom” of the course of tier party on Friday. If they hope to gain
any thing other cause, arrayed as they are against Virginia’s cherished principles,
they are at liberty to “make the most of it.” In our opinion, by electing
Mr. Hunter, they have “caught a Tarter.”—they have put in the Senate a man
who is an uncompromising opponent to their darling “Protection” and National
Bank. Let them rejoice, then, if they can, over the extraordinary “politic
wisdom” displayed by them.
[MLD]
Tuesday, January 19, 1847 RE47v43n76p1c4 662 words
LATER FROM MEXICO
The Union furnishes the following additional details by the steamer Mississippi. The chance of peace seems desperate, indeed. Is not this a sufficiently powerful argument for Congress to cease its squabbling over irrelevant and mischievous subjects, and set to work promptly and vigorously to adopt all efficient measures to bring the war to a speedy close?