JALAPA.--PUEBLA
Monday, April 19. This was a lazy day in camp, the general and his staff
being occupied with the charge of the prisoners, and preparing the
proper dispatches. It was determined to release all the prisoners and
officers on parole. Thus 2700 men (and 200 having escaped the previous
day whilst coming into camp, and before they had reached the charge of
General Worth) were sent, with rations to subsist them on their way
home, to and beyond Jalapa. La Vega, one of the prisoners, announced his
intention not to accept his parole, but to go to the United States. The
surgeons, moreover, were most actively engaged in caring for the
wounded. The wounds of the men generally were slight, and all the
disabled were cheerful and in high spirits. The wounds of the Mexicans
were bad, and many of their dead were shot in the head. General Shields,
to the surprise of all, still survived, was in excellent spirits, and
did not doubt that he would get well.
At half past one the general-in-chief and his staff, with an escort of
dragoons, started for Jalapa, and passed the night at Encerro, the
residence of Santa Anna. Worth, who marched from the Plano del Rio in
the morning, reached Jalapa the same night. On the road I saw several
dead, disfigured with horrible wounds. I was obliged to ride in a wagon,
the surgeon having forbidden my riding on horseback. The country seat of
Santa Anna is delightfully situated in the midst of a rolling country,
abounding in herds of cattle, and all the fruits of both tropics. His
house is of two stories, the first being appropriated to kitchens,
store-rooms, etc., and the second to the family. Several rooms were well
furnished, and were garnished with paintings on historical subjects, for
the most part Mexican and Spanish. We saw several of his wooden legs.
Tuesday, April 20. The general and staff reached Jalapa about eleven
A.M., after a most beautiful ride of eight miles. Along the road were to
be observed the Mexican troops in little groups of two or three,
accompanied by their women, of whom there were many at their camp at the
Cerro Gordo. I ventured to try my horse, and found for the time being
less inconvenience than in the wagon. The appearance of the country,
rolling and green, was very inviting. As we approached the city, the
rear of Worth's wagons was in the road, the men and mules almost
entirely exhausted by the long march of yesterday. Major Smith, in
consequence of injuries resulting from riding on horseback, was obliged
to ride, and accompanied Major Sumner (wounded in the conflict of the
17th inst.) in the carriage of Santa Anna. On reaching the city I had
the pleasure of meeting Captain Lee, Lieutenant Beauregard, and
Lieutenants Smith and McClellan of the engineer company, who were in the
advance with Twiggs. Quarters were assigned Major Smith and myself in
the governor's house, the headquarters of General Scott.
The same afternoon General Worth was pushed forward in the advance,
Captain Lee, Lieutenants Mason and Tower, and the engineer company
accompanying him. It was reported that La Hoya and Perote had been
abandoned, and that a body of three or four thousand lancers was on the
route to Puebla.
Wednesday, April 21. I was busily engaged to-day in organizing the
train of the engineer company, the mules having proved very poor on the
route from Plano del Rio, and many of the animals being entirely
unserviceable. On requisition from the senior engineer, the general
directed that a train of eight wagons should be furnished by the
quartermaster at Vera Cruz to bring up the engineer train that remained,
and as many of the engineer implements as practicable. Lieutenant
Foster, in the afternoon, with the engineer train that had come up from
the Plano del Rio, started to join his company at Perote. Sapper Noyes
went to Vera Cruz in the train of Friday morning to point out to the
quartermaster the articles that were needed.
Thursday to Saturday, April 22-24. Nothing especial occurred on these
days. I have been principally engaged whilst at my leisure in going
about the town, observing the people and their customs.
Sunday, April 25. This day I attended high mass in the cathedral. The
church was decorated considerably, though with little taste. There were
several figures of the Virgin Mary. The people seemed attentive to the
various ceremonies, and were scrupulous in observing the prescribed
forms. Not many of the higher classes were present. Some few elegant and
well-dressed ladies were to be seen.
Monday to Thursday, April 26-29. During these days I have been
collecting facts in relation to the battle of Cerro Gordo, with the view
of making a general map and digesting a connected military narrative. In
consequence of all the officers, except Lieutenant Beauregard and
myself, having gone to Perote, there were no means of making an accurate
survey of the positions, or of getting sketches of the various
reconnoissances, to form a general plan. The only sketch forwarded from
Perote was one by Lieutenant Tower. I have met during these days
several old friends, particularly Tilden and Haskin. Canby I have seen
much of.
April 30. This day I was busily occupied in preparing a memoir on the
proper mode of conducting the war, in case Mexico shall pursue the
guerrilla system, and obstinately refuse to listen to terms of
accommodation. I find great difficulty in procuring information as to
routes, etc. The weather in Jalapa is delightful. For the past four days
copious showers towards evening have exercised the most healthful and
invigorating influence upon the troops here. Since the arrival of
headquarters on Tuesday, April 20, there has been a remarkable
equableness of temperature. Jalapa is the very Eden of Mexico, and its
picturesque situation in the very bosom of the mountains is nowhere
surpassed. Such is the perfect amenity and smiling aspect of nature at
this favored spot, that all the seasons of the year meet together. All
the days of the year are both seedtime and harvest. The place is
singularly beautiful in its perennial bloom, and in the flowers and
gardens of its people. They seem to be a happy, easy race, and many of
the people are of refinement and intelligence.
There are indications in the suburbs of Jalapa of more populousness and
wealth than now obtain, as in the wells of masonry to be seen, fifty
feet and more in depth, etc. The snowy peak of Orizaba, fifteen thousand
feet above the sea, is to be seen far above the clouds, which at times
hang over its base.
JALAPA, Thursday, April 22, 1847.
MY DEAREST WIFE,--We entered this beautiful city, fragrant with
flowers and shrubbery, at eleven o'clock Tuesday morning. Jalapa and
the surrounding country is the Eden of Mexico. For many miles the
country is in the highest state of cultivation. There is a perennial
bloom. At this very moment all the fruits and every species of
vegetation are to be seen in all their stages. On the same tree are
seen blossoms and fruit. In the same field we observe grain and
corn just springing from the seed, and we see it ready for the
sickle. The market abounds in oranges, bananas, peppers, lettuce,
cabbages, cauliflower, onions, lemons, peas (green), beans,
tomatoes, etc. The refinement and cultivation of the people are to
be seen in their taste for flowers. At all points the most beautiful
flowers strike your eye. All the houses of the lower classes, as
well as of the higher, have gardens of flowers in rear. As you pass
through the street you every moment get glimpses of fountains and
shrubbery. Jalapa is more than Capua of old. It is Capua with all
its beauty and serenity, but without its _abandon_. The people are
refined, courteous, intelligent, and upright. Here we shall remain
for some ten days or a fortnight, to organize the campaign, and
prepare for the march to Mexico. Jalapa will be the great base of
operations.
We left the Plano del Rio on Monday. I rode on a wagon, and reached
Encerro, the hacienda of Santa Anna, a distance of fourteen miles,
the same evening. The general and his staff passed the night here.
It is beautifully situated on a commanding hill, with ample
outbuildings, an artificial pond for bathing, etc., and a paved road
branching from the main Jalapa road. The hacienda of two stories was
elegantly furnished on the second floor, the first floor being
appropriated to kitchens, store-rooms, etc. We saw several of Santa
Anna's wooden legs. General Scott gave us in the evening a nice
supper with wine.
I rode on Tuesday from Encerro to Jalapa on my horse, and found it
about as comfortable as a wagon. The distance was about eight miles.
The morning was beautiful and the scenery enchanting. On reaching
the city we found some seven or eight thousand of our troops under
arms. For the first time since Cortez the hostile feet of a foreign
race trod its pavements. The most perfect tranquillity prevailed.
The people are well treated, receive good prices for all they wish
to sell, and do not feel the weight of a foreign yoke.
Last evening we received intelligence that General Taylor entered
the city of San Luis Potosi on the 13th of this month. Well done,
indomitable old hero! It is somewhat doubtful whether I shall go on
with the army. The surgeon advises me to remain here for the
present. With care he thinks I may rely on a permanent cure. Care,
however, is required.
JALAPA, May 1, 1847.
MY DEAREST WIFE,--I am glad to be able to assure you that my health
is improving. It is not yet safe for me to ride my horse, and I
think that my ride from Encerro, the country seat of Santa Anna, to
Jalapa put me back some days. I can walk without any inconvenience
by being careful as to my gait, and avoiding all sudden steps. I am
not in the least incapacitated for office duty, and am, excepting my
injury, in very vigorous health. It is hard, I assure you, in this
beautiful region to be detained from enjoying my fine horse. As it
is, he stands in the stable doing nothing. On Monday, May 3, I shall
move on with General Patterson's advance, in charge of the engineer
train, to join the engineer corps with Worth.
The brilliant conflict of Cerro Gordo came upon the Mexicans like a
thunderbolt, and is the most decisive blow of the war. The road is
free to the City of Mexico, and I have no doubt General Scott will
be there in six weeks. It is said the Mexicans will resort to the
guerrilla mode of warfare. It will be found worse than useless. It
will be found of assistance to our arms. General Scott will enforce
the strictest discipline, and the people of the country will remain
undisturbed in their houses. A fair price will be paid for
everything that is consumed. The war will be made to bear with a
heavy hand upon all connected with the government, and upon the
property of all disaffected persons. Don't feel alarmed about the
observation in the papers in reference to the terrible and atrocious
character of guerrilla warfare. No one here feels the least alarm.
Twelve resolute men can disperse a hundred rancheros. As guerrilla
troops our volunteers are infinitely superior to the Mexicans. The
Mexicans as guerrilla troops are poor. They are generally very
inferior troops. They are best behind breastworks, yet our men find
no difficulty in storming them.
You may be sure that this city is a most charming place. We do not
find the upper classes disposed to associate with us. Jalapa is said
to be one of the most exclusive places in Mexico, the society being
broken up into cliques, and families living among themselves as in
New Bedford. The upper classes are indeed said to be very hostile
to us. We are now about building a battery to overawe the city,
where a ten-inch mortar will be mounted. The terrible destruction at
Vera Cruz from our shells has been spread over all Mexico, and with
all the exaggeration of the Spanish character. All the cities have
the greatest fear of our shells.
The last few days I have been busily occupied in preparing a
narrative of the brilliant conflict of the Cerro Gordo, illustrated
with a sketch, and for the Engineer Department at Washington, and
also in writing a memoir on the best mode of opposing the guerrilla
warfare. The latter I have done chiefly for my own instruction. It
is possible, if I can finish it to my mind, I may have it published.
I have some thoughts of sending it to General Scott at once. The
general, however, is a very great talker and writer himself, and I
doubt whether he could find time to read the memoir.
Sunday, May 2. The train does not go till to-morrow, so I can tell
you something of the occurrences of this day. Sunday is the great
market day of Jalapa, and this morning I saw the greatest profusion
of vegetables, watermelons in abundance, the finest oranges,
bananas, plantains, cauliflower, cabbage, lettuce, celery, beans,
peas, squashes, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, green
corn, rare-ripe onions, tomatoes. The onions are the finest I ever
saw. They are far superior to our own. Many well-dressed ladies were
to be seen in the market with their servants. I went to the
cathedral, but remained only a short time.
I consulted to-day Dr. Wright, the hospital surgeon of Jalapa, in
reference to my difficulty, and he speaks in the most encouraging
manner. He says there is no objection to my riding a portion of the
distance on horseback, and that with care there is not the least
danger in advancing with the army.
May 3. In the expectation that the march would take place to-morrow,
I was busily engaged preparing for my departure. The sappers
remaining in this place made all their arrangements, and the
engineer train of eight wagons was put in perfect order, a wagon
master and two extra men having been provided for. General
Patterson's advance brigade, that would serve as our escort, was
the brigade of Quitman. In the evening, about eight o'clock, an
express came up from Vera Cruz.
May 4. I rose early, having decided to start at half past six
o'clock. Some delays occurred, and when in readiness to start, at
half past seven, I was informed that the order to march had been
countermanded. Consequently everything was put back in its place.
About eleven A.M. Carigan, a sick sapper, died at the hospital. He
had been sick almost from the first day he came into the country.
His case was not considered incurable at Vera Cruz, but the journey
to Jalapa, riding in a wagon over a rough road, proved too much for
his strength. He was buried in the afternoon in a convent
churchyard, his remains having been accompanied by myself and five
sappers. When his body was lowered into its final resting-place, I
made a few remarks on the peculiar circumstances of his case,
dwelling upon the fact that his short service had not been in vain,
and that he had served his country, and as much died for his country
as though he had fallen at Vera Cruz or at Cerro Gordo. Sergeant
Clark and A.M. Noyes, on my calling on them, made a few very
appropriate remarks in reference to his case, and bore cheerful
testimony to his excellent character and the esteem in which he was
held by his associates. Regan, a sapper who had enlisted with him,
and who had known him for a long time, was a most sincere mourner.
He seemed to reproach himself as the cause of Carigan's death, in
consequence of his own example having been the cause of Carigan's
enlistment. I stated to Regan that he had no cause to reproach
himself, and that in writing to Carigan's friends he could dwell
upon the circumstances of Carigan's having received every attention,
and finally having been buried in one of the most beautiful regions
of the earth, and in ground consecrated by the religious solemnities
of his faith.
May 5. There are reports that Santa Anna intends cutting off the
large train coming from Vera Cruz in a few days, in consequence of
which Captain Bainbridge with a battalion of infantry proceeded
downward yesterday, to be followed by Colonel Riley and a portion of
his brigade to-morrow, the whole to take a position at the National
Bridge. I now hold myself in readiness to move forward at any
moment. But in the present aspect of affairs, three regiments of
volunteers returning home, much sickness amongst the troops, and no
certainty as to the arrival of new levies, it is not certain that it
will be possible to move beyond Puebla.
May 7. Left Jalapa this morning at 7.30 in charge of the second
section of the engineer train, to join the advance of General Worth,
and under the escort of General Quitman's brigade, to whom I
reported on my arrival at his encampment. He did not get under way
till towards noon, and, after marching two hours through a
cultivated and beautiful country, we reached the village of El
Soldado, about eight miles from Jalapa. After halting an hour at
this place the command pursued its march through a most picturesque
and beautiful country, presenting at the different points a varied
view of the valley, dotted all over with villages, and with fields
of corn and barley, and parties of laborers by the roadside
peacefully pursuing the cultivation of the soil. At La Hoya,
defended with some care at a pass between two high hills, with a
succession of barriers in the road, two arranged with a single
embrasure for guns, was to be seen the apple-tree in blossom, and
also the pine-tree. We halted at Las Vegas for the night, the road
hither ascending all the way, and the character of the trees rapidly
changing to the fir, the black birch, and the mountain oak. Las
Vegas is a somewhat straggling village of perhaps about two thousand
people, situated in a depression or valley in the hills, which to
the northeast expand into a most fertile and agreeable plain, highly
cultivated along the west side. Most inviting fields of barley and
corn had remained untouched, though the horses of our troops had
subsisted on the former. Jalapa to El Soldado, seven miles; to La
Hoya, three miles (large); to tank on left, nine miles; to Las
Vegas, three miles; Jalapa to Las Vegas, twenty-two miles.
May 8. Left Las Vegas about eight A.M. and reached Perote about
twelve P.M., a distance of ten miles, or about. This route for the
first three miles is quite rough and uneven. At the end of the third
mile is a very long and difficult descent, at the foot of which is a
beautiful stream of ice-cold water, flowing directly from the Coffre
de Perote. Here the whole command were refreshed. After ascending a
considerable hill we again, after a gentle descent, gained a little
village at another, quite sluggish stream about a mile from the Rio
Frio. A slight ascent brought us to the extended plain of Perote,
ten or twelve miles in width and extending generally in a westerly
direction as far as El Pinal. Perote, with its castle in the middle
of the plain and towards its eastern extremity, was almost
depopulated, and presented a very uninviting appearance. General
Worth had collected here large stores of forage and flour, much
rice, and some sugar and coffee. On reporting to General Worth, and
stating my object (to join Captain Lee), I was directed to attach
myself to Colonel Clarke's brigade, the last battalion of which was
to march at seven A.M. on the 9th. I found Mason quite sick, and
doubtful as to his ability to move on. Though somewhat fatigued with
my day's march, I suffered no inconvenience from my rupture, though
the entire distance from Jalapa was made on horseback.
May 9. I left Perote this morning with Colonel Clarke at seven A.M.,
and arrived at San Antonio, a distance of seven miles, about
eleven. A slight halt was made three miles from Perote. At one
o'clock, after resting the mules, I proceeded with the train to Tepe
Ahualco, which I reached after a distance of nine miles. Here I
found the engineer company, and Captain Lee and Lieutenant Tower of
the engineers. Captain Lee, unfortunately, was suffering from chills
and fever.
May 10. The brigade of Colonel Garland, with General Worth and
staff, left Tepe Ahualco (a very mean village, with bad water) at
eight o'clock, and after a march of ten miles through the plain
reached the hacienda of Vireyes, where we encamped for the night.
This hacienda, like most of the haciendas of the country, was a good
substantial building on the four sides of a square, and arranged
with reference to the defense of the interior space. The peons lived
in mean habitations of mud and trellis-work, not equal to the
dwellings of swine in New England.
May 11. The march commenced at seven A.M., and after two halts,--one
of about half an hour at Byzantium, distant eight miles, a village
having its cathedral, one or two stores with pulque for sale, and
pretty good houses for the peons; one of about two hours at Ojo de
Agua, distant ten miles, a village not so considerable as the
former, but noted for its clear water gushing in quite a large
stream from the roadside,--we reached the hacienda Santa Annaced as
a violent windstorm came on. Large stacks of barley straw in front
of the hacienda afforded sustenance for many domestic animals. As we
approached the village of Byzantium, a gently ascending and somewhat
considerable hill on the left, cultivated to its very top with the
maguey plant, and the green grass of the flowing stream at the base
relieved the dryness of the plain, and afforded a most pleasing
prospect. The road on the 10th and 11th was level; and for the most
part good. Distance this day, about twelve miles.
May 12. The march commenced at six A.M., the rear brigade of Colonel
Clarke joining the advance brigade of Colonel Garland in its first
movement, its encampment having been only two miles in rear. After
proceeding some miles we entered Nopalucan, a considerable town of
three churches, several fondas, and some substantial houses. The
padre furnished the general and his officers an entertainment of
spirits and cakes. The best people had shut up their houses and left
the place. Before approaching Nopalucan, the road for some two miles
passes through a highly cultivated tract of country, with some dozen
haciendas on the right and left. An elevation on entering this tract
affords a very charming prospect.
After remaining two hours at Nopalucan the division moved forward,
over in some portions a rough road, and encamped for the night one
league this side of the Pass of El Pinal.
May 13. At Nopalucan information was given that Santa Anna, with
some fifteen hundred or two thousand lancers, had passed through
that place on the 10th for Puebla, and at the camp of the 12th and
13th there were rumors that he had prepared mines in the road at El
Pinal. In consequence the engineer company, Duncan's battery, and
some other troops moved early to examine the pass. A false alarm
during the night left many of the troops much harassed. El Pinal is
no pass whatever, and the mines, of which rumor was so big, were
little excavations commenced under the road in two places, but
abandoned. El Pinal derives its name from the pine-trees, which are
found to the very top of the mountains. At this point the road
commences a rapid descent, and soon brings us to Acajete, a smaller
place than Nopalucan, yet having its church and its fonda. Here the
alcalde provided a collation for the general and his officers.
After halting an hour and a half, we moved forward, and reached
Amasoque about two o'clock. This is a village having a large public
square and three fine churches. It is larger than Nopalucan, and
must contain nearly four thousand inhabitants.
It was determined to remain at Amasoque one entire day to enable
General Quitman's command to come up, and accordingly General
Worth's division was in expectation of a day's rest, but about nine
o'clock.
May 14, word was brought that five thousand lancers were marching
down upon us. A reconnoissance by Captain Lee reduced the numbers to
less than two thousand, and the movement seemed to look to the
cutting of our communication with Quitman's column. It was so illy
concerted that seventy shots from Duncan's battery and a few from
Steptoe's turned the enemy from their apparent purpose, and caused
them to turn to their left and make good their retreat. A column of
about six hundred, however, continued their course, veering a little
to the left to keep out of the reach of Quitman, who, on hearing our
guns, hastened the march of his troops, and effected a junction with
Worth with great celerity. This column was followed by myself,
Lieutenant McClellan, and three dragoons as far as the hacienda San
Miguel, some five miles from Amasoque. On the way thither we crossed
a very deep arroyo, along a very good though very steep mule-path.
At the hacienda, having ascertained from the people and from their
trail that the column had continued their eccentric course, we
returned in a somewhat different direction, and having crossed an
arroyo by an almost impracticable path, and fallen on and nearly
captured a Mexican officer and his servant, we came to where the
arroyos met, and were obliged to retrace our steps. We reached
headquarters about three o'clock. I was exceedingly exhausted by my
exertions. Lieutenant McClellan was very gallant and prompt in
pursuing the Mexican, and lost him in consequence of the chapparal.
A pony that was led by the servant was given to the men.
NOTE. The occurrences of this day show two things: 1st. Troops
should be quartered or encamped in reference to the attack of an
enemy, and the site should always be determined by officers of
engineers.
2d. On the arrival of troops at the place of encampment, an
examination should be made to determine the principal circumstances
in reference to the roads and the general features of the topography
of the country, so that, in case of an attack or demonstration, we
should have the necessary information to strike a vigorous blow at
the enemy, and push him into a precipitate retreat. At Amasoque
nothing was known in the morning in reference to the roads of the
village itself leading to the direction where the enemy was known to
be, until the reconnoissance was made after the presence of the
enemy was reported. Still less was anything known in regard to the
existence of the arroyos, which cut up the surface of the plain, and
rendered it entirely impracticable for cavalry and artillery to
operate, till the crossings (used by the people of the country and
known by their troops) were carefully ascertained. During the whole
march from Tepe Ahualco, these things had been entirely _neglected_.
Captain Lee and Lieutenant Tower made a reconnoissance of the
country towards Puebla, and discovered that the main body of the
enemy had retrograded to a village some eight miles from and off the
main road to Puebla. Colonel Garland's brigade was pushed forward
about two miles and bivouacked for the night. The troops were
ordered to march, first at nine P.M., then at three A.M., and
finally at five A.M., in order to concentrate near Puebla in the
course of the morning. In consequence of these continual changes,
the troops were exceedingly and needlessly harassed.
May 15. The army moved at five A.M., and at a village three miles
from Amasoque, commissioners were found in waiting to treat for the
occupation of the city. The assurances of the general were
satisfactory to them. They were simply a recognition that Puebla
should be no exception to the general course our army has pursued in
this country as regards the inviolability of the rights, persons,
religion, and authority of the city, so far as not incompatible with
its military occupation. The troops in the course of the day were
all got into quarters, although it was accomplished in a very
undignified manner, the general, at the head of his staff,
personally superintending the breaking open of the doors of the
barracks whenever they were not opened by the keys in season to
satisfy his impatient spirit.
May 16-22. The army continued in the peaceful occupation of Puebla,
and nothing occurred to disturb the general tranquillity except two
or three cases of broils, occasioned by the imprudence of our own
people, and one report of the march of Santa Anna to attack the
city. Some changes were made in the distribution of troops, much
attention paid to the rumors of the streets, and no general system
of measures adopted in relation to the defenses of the city, or to
the dispositions to be made in case of the attack of an enemy. The
people were decidedly hostile to Santa Anna, and our respect for
their rights was making a decided change in our favor. On the 20th
and 21st the city was rife with rumors of the approach of General
Taylor to San Luis Potosi, and at length it was said that General
Taylor had been taken prisoner and hanged. Information came on the
21st that General Scott was still at Jalapa, and would not leave
till the 23d.
May 23, 24. Affairs continue tranquil. Information has come that
General Twiggs left Jalapa Saturday, May 22, and was followed by
General Scott on Sunday. My own health is improving very rapidly,
and on the 24th I reported to Captain Lee my readiness for duty.
May 25. Engaged on a reconnoissance of the road to Tlascala. There
are two roads, one for carriages and one for mules, which continue
separate the whole distance to Tlascala. This reconnoissance
occupied seven hours, and was supported by twelve sappers.
May 26. Accompanied Captain Lee and Lieutenants Mason and Tower in
an examination of the hill and the adjacent parts of the city, to
determine a position for our troops in case of the attack of the
enemy. The occupation of the hill, the Cuartel San José, and some
buildings on the right and left, fulfilled the conditions quite
well. It commanded the city, and the approaches to it in the
direction of the hill afforded room for stores, wagons, and animals.
This examination was suggested to General Worth by Captain Lee on
the first occupation of the city, but was deferred in consequence of
press of business, and was ordered to-day in consequence of a report
that a strong force of the enemy was marching upon the city from
Mexico.
May 27. A fatigue party with some sappers, and all under the
direction of Lieutenant Smith, were employed to-day in repairing the
parapet of Fort Guadalupe, on the summit of the hill. The engineer
officers were engaged generally in examining roads entering the
city, and plotting the same.
May 28. General Scott and staff arrived to-day. Engineers employed
as yesterday.
May 29. General Twiggs arrived with his division to-day at three
P.M., and at one o'clock the long roll beat in consequence of a
report of the approach of the enemy, twenty thousand strong. This
proved to be unfounded.
May 30, 31. The only occurrence of interest is Santa Anna's solemn
renunciation of power, and return to private life. He declares in
his manifest that he has labored with a single eye to the good of
his country, and can review with satisfaction and without reproach
his whole public career. I cannot but entertain the opinion that
Santa Anna's renouncing all authority is in consequence of a fixed
determination on his part to be "Aut Cæsar aut nihil." It may be the
deliberate act of a great statesman and patriot, more firmly to
maintain the authority necessary to save his country. He may act
from the conviction that his country, seeing that he would not
continue in authority in this crisis unless he were cordially
supported by all parties, would with one voice recall him to public
life and invest him with full powers. So far as I am able to judge,
Santa Anna's career, since his return to Mexico, has been most
glorious and remarkable. Without resources, and in the midst of
internal discord, he has organized two large armies, and made one of
the most extraordinary marches in all history. He has been defeated,
but throughout has shown an admirable constancy, and exhibited high
military qualities. In strategic operations he has shown marked
ability. At Buena Vista he came within an ace of utterly defeating
General Taylor, and had he succeeded (and the probabilities were in
his favor), he would have been able to excite to the highest pitch
of enthusiasm the whole nation. A large army might have been raised,
and our advance into the interior effectually checked. On the field
of battle he has not proved equal to us. But it is probably due to
the nature of his troops, who in the shock of the conflict are
inferior to us, three or four to one. At Angostura, and at the Cerro
Gordo, he exhibited courage and an indefatigable spirit. He did not
leave the height of the Cerro Gordo till the very moment of its
falling into our hands, and he was obliged to make his escape on one
of the wheel mules of his carriage. Nor were his spirits depressed
by this overwhelming defeat. He immediately rallied his troops at
Orizaba, a strategic position in reference to the whole route of
Jalapa from Vera Cruz to Puebla. Here he was able to threaten our
lines of communication, and, without moving a step, he compelled us
to protect our trains with large escorts as they came up from Vera
Cruz to Jalapa. When nearly a whole brigade (Riley's) was sent down
to protect the large train supposed to be the last of five hundred
wagons, and it became evident that nothing more would be gained in
this direction, he anticipated our advance, and threw himself
between us and the City of Mexico. He has now renounced all
authority. We must wait until his real object in taking this great
step shall have become developed.
June 3. We have rumors to-day that a reinforcement of 3000 men has
landed at Antigua, and is on the march to Jalapa. It has been
determined to break up Jalapa, place the sick in hospital in Perote,
and bring up the whole disposable force to Puebla. At Perote and
Jalapa are 800 sick and 1700 men in garrison. Leaving a garrison of
400 men in Perote, the remaining 1300 men, with 900 recruits, will
increase the troops now at Puebla, 6000 effectives including
officers (there are 700 sick), to 8200; of the 900 recruits, at
least 200 will be left behind sick. So that 8000 men will be the
extent of our force. We shall probably remain in Puebla till about
the 1st of July, and then advance to the city with our whole force.
I write this evening to my wife by a train going down to-morrow. It
is doubtful whether the letter will reach the States.
This is Corpus Christi Day. I attended church in the morning, and
was anything but pleased with the idle ceremonies of the occasion.
The Catholicism of this country is a great corruption of that of the
United States. It is chiefly a religion of observances, and of the
most burdensome and elaborate kind. Excepting human sacrifices, it
is on a par with the religion of the Aztecs.
A bull-fight having been advertised, I attended it with many other
officers, but the performance was a very tame one. The bulls were
barbarously butchered after having been lassoed and thrown down.
Every one returned home disgusted.
June 4. The news from Mexico to-day is less favorable to peace. The
congress, it is said, has refused to accept the resignation of Santa
Anna, and the latter has left Mexico to take command of the troops.
The landing of Cadwallader with three thousand troops has been
confirmed. Half a million of money is also on its way. Everything
bears a favorable aspect now. The arrival of funds is of great
consequence, in order that no necessity may arise to live by forced
contributions. We ought to apply to the support of the war the
revenues that formerly went to the central government, but in our
dealings with individuals scrupulously to pay for every supply and
service. To-day I was employed on the journal of last month. The
officers were generally employed on the drawings.
June 6. A mail arrived to-day with cheering news from the States.
The government was exerting its energies to increase both columns of
invasion, and, from the success which had already attended the
recruiting service, there was little doubt that in the course of the
season there would be thirty thousand troops in the field. Six
regiments of volunteers for the war were also to be called out.
June 7-21. The army has continued recruiting its strength and
awaiting reinforcements. Daily drills in companies, battalions,
brigades, and divisions have tended to give tone and efficiency to
the command, though a counteracting influence has been found in the
troops not being paid. Great discontent exists in consequence of
this. Many of the troops are quartered in damp basements, and all
live on fresh provisions, prolific causes of disease. The sickness
has been as high as twenty-five per cent. of the whole number
present, and even at this time is not much below this. In some
regiments the company officers do not attend to their men, and
particularly to their food. The use of the chili, or Mexican pepper,
supplies the place of salt, and contributes essentially to the
health of the troops.
There have been occasional rumors of rising in the city, to be
assisted by guerrillas. A small force is with the governor at
Athsio, and all the roads are infested to some extent by this
description of troops. There have been several attempts to induce
our men to desert, and now a German is being tried for the offense,
and will probably be put to death.
The engineers have been employed in drawing a map of the city and
its environs, completing the drawings of the siege of Vera Cruz, and
collecting information in relation to the roads and localities in
the valley of Mexico.
The general-in-chief reached Puebla on the 28th, and on the
following day all the engineer officers and the engineer company
were relieved from duty with particular divisions, and placed under
the direction of the senior engineer at general headquarters.
General Twiggs arrived with his division on the 29th of June.
Information was derived from Americans, residents of the City of
Mexico, who joined the army as it penetrated into the country, and
from Mexicans (robbers and contrabandists), etc. In consequence of
these inquiries, Captain Lee was enabled to prepare a map of all the
routes from Puebla to the City of Mexico and in its valley, and
exhibiting generally the topography of the country, its hills,
rivers, marshes, etc. Much information was also obtained in
reference to the fixed means of defense of the enemy,--particularly
the position and character of field-works and batteries, and the
character of the obstructions from cuts in the causeways of approach
to the city, and from inundations from the lakes. In the
investigation of this matter, one circumstance transpired affording
convincing proof that no difficulty would be found to bribe men of
rank and influence. A merchant of Puebla, of some wealth, extensive
connection, and large practical knowledge of localities in all parts
of Mexico, for the sum of five thousand dollars proposed going to
the City of Mexico and procuring accurate information in reference
to the roads and localities in the valley of Mexico, the fixed means
of defense of the enemy, the force, composition, distribution, and
_morale_ of the troops, the state of public feeling in the city,
etc. He professed a sufficient acquaintance with military matters to
furnish the information with entire fullness and accuracy. Nor did
he ask the least compensation for his services till the information
furnished should be pronounced perfectly satisfactory. This
proposition was finally declined by General Scott.
It having been ascertained that Dominguez, the chief of the robbers
from Vera Cruz to Mexico and a resident of Puebla, was willing to
enter into the American service with at least a portion of the
robbers, Major Smith proposed to the general-in-chief that they
should be received, and employed as spies, guides, and couriers.
This suggestion met with his approbation, and the inspector-general,
Colonel Hitchcock, was associated with Major Smith in arranging a
proper organization. Thus far the robbers have proved useful as
spies and couriers.
General Cadwallader is known to be on his way from Perote, and will
probably reach Puebla with his command to-day or to-morrow. It is to
be feared that the large number of sick will render it necessary to
leave a garrison in Puebla, reducing, if the advance to Mexico
obtain within ten days, the efficient fighting force to six thousand
men.
June 22-24. Information reached General Scott on the evening of the
23d that General Cadwallader was at Perote, and that he would leave
next day and reach Puebla on Monday, the 29th. He met with serious
resistance between Jalapa and Perote, particularly at the Pass of La
Hoya. The 24th was St. John's Day, and was celebrated generally
throughout the city. Some patriotic feeling was exhibited in the
military dresses and flags of the boys. The engineer company
obtained authority to change their quarters to the convent San
Antonio. The subject of an engineer drill was under discussion by
Lieutenants Mason, Stevens, and G.W. Smith, and it was decided that
the manual of the miner should be translated. On the 24th I
submitted to Major Smith a brief memoir on a system of espionage,
and involving the employment of the robbers of the country.
June 25-28. During these days information has reached headquarters
of the landing of General Pillow at Vera Cruz, and of his order to
General Cadwallader to await his arrival in Perote. The whole
command, probably amounting to five thousand men, will arrive as
early as the 5th of July.
Rumors for several days have been rife in Puebla of negotiations for
a treaty of peace being commenced. Several messengers are known to
have arrived from Mexico, and the Mexican president has been
notified by General Scott that a commissioner with powers to treat
has arrived from the United States. I see no indication of the least
disposition to treat on the part of the Mexican nation, and nothing
can stay the advance of our army to the valley of Mexico. Even then,
in consequence of the rainy season and the smallness of our force,
we shall restrict ourselves to the narrowest limits; but a small
portion of the heart of the country will feel our presence, and the
spirit of the people will not be subdued. They will flatter
themselves with the hope of soon driving from their capital and
their soil the _infamous invader_. New armies will be raised, and we
again in the fall obliged to take the field. North to Zacatecas let
our arms extend!
July 1. The Mexican congress, agreeably to the proclamation of the
president, assembled on the 28th of June, but, wanting five of a
quorum, adjourned to the 5th of July, the special subject of their
consideration being the appointing of commissioners to treat of
peace. Pillow reached Perote yesterday (probably), and will probably
be in Puebla on the 7th or 8th inst. It is also supposed that Pierce
has arrived in Vera Cruz with additional troops. It is a doubtful
matter whether the Mexican congress will take a decided course in
initiating negotiations, or whether the commissioners whom they
appoint will agree upon the terms. I have every confidence that
General Scott, whilst showing every disposition to respond to any
desire for peace which the Mexican nation may express, and exerting
his whole strength to accomplish that great object, will not permit
it to be made a pretext to gain time, and a cover to the complete
organization of the enemy's force. The enemy may treat at this time.
They stickle on points of honor, and will have the greatest
repugnance to the occupation of their capital. They see our force
daily increasing. They have felt our prowess at the Cerro Gordo.
They know we desire peace. Our terms are not hard. If we advance
and enter the City of Mexico, their government will be in a measure
dissolved, and the favorable moment for negotiations have gone. All
these considerations must incline the candid and intelligent portion
of the nation to arrange all matters in dispute before we advance
from Puebla. Yet the Castilian obstinacy and pride may overrule all
these considerations, and determine them to try the issue of a
protracted contest. It is possible they may consider our terms, if
agreed to, as the step fatal and inevitable towards the final
occupation of the whole country, and, considering the present
conflict as one for national independence, they may conclude to
fight as long as a man remains to bear arms. For one, I cannot but
consider the issue doubtful, and am inclined to the belief that
nothing will come from the present movement, and that we shall
advance to and enter the City of Mexico.
July 4. The anniversary of our national independence has dawned upon
the Americans in Puebla most auspiciously. News came last evening
that General Pierce, with two thousand men, left Vera Cruz on June
28, and that in a week he would be followed by six thousand more
troops. If this be true, we shall be able to launch a column of
fifteen thousand men against the capital. It must fall into our
hands with but little resistance. The rainy season should be devoted
to the disciplining and reorganization of the whole army, new levies
and old troops. Thus in October, based in the valley of Mexico, we
shall be in condition to move in any direction, and doubtless,
northward, our columns will march as far as Zacatecas, unless
previously peace be agreed upon.
A war fever has broken out afresh in the capital, and energetic
measures are being taken to add to their means of defense. Church
bells are being cast into cannon, and field-works and fortifications
put in good condition.
The engineer staff called on the general officers in the morning and
dined together afterwards. We passed a pleasant day.
July 6. A courier came in this morning with information that El
Pinal was occupied by a guerrilla force of one thousand men, and
that the train had been at Ojo de Agua two days, resting from the
fatigues of the march from Perote. The roads were bad, and many of
the teams had given out. Colonel Harney, with a force of seven
hundred men and a relief train of forty wagons, started at eight
o'clock,
July 7, to disperse the assemblage at El Pinal, and meet the exposed
train at Nopalucan. The troops still continue sick. About noon the
arrival of General Pillow at Amasoque was announced; about five
o'clock the dragoons arrived, bringing with them the long-expected
mail.
July 8. The troops reached Puebla about noon to-day, and as they
passed General Scott in review, they made a sorry appearance. In
some respects composed of good material, they have come in all haste
to the seat of war without a single day's drill, and after a march
of one hundred and sixty-one miles it is not surprising they were
much worn down. The day in the city was by all devoted to reading
letters and papers. I had the extreme felicity of getting five
letters from my dear wife, announcing her comfortable settlement for
the season in Newport. In a distant land, the pleasure of receiving
intelligence from our dear friends at home is above and beyond all
other pleasures. My latest dates were to the 31st of May.
July 9. A general order of to-day assigned Pillow to the command of
the third regular division, composed of Cadwallader's and Pierce's
brigades, General Quitman continuing in command of the volunteer
division till it shall become practicable to join his proper regular
division with General Taylor. General Shields was assigned to the
command of the volunteer brigade now in Puebla. We learned to-day
that there was a movement to the north against Santa Anna in which
eight states joined. The prospect of peace is very small.
July 10. News from Mexico more unfavorable to peace. Congress wants
eleven of a quorum. There are now eighteen thousand troops in the
valley of Mexico, provided with arms and sixty pieces of cannon.
Four thousand troops from San Luis Potosi are said to be daily
expected. All the causeways are armed with cannon, protected by
field-works with wet ditches. Important advantages will result from
deferring the advance to Mexico till the close of the rainy season.
Time will be gained to put the new levies in shape, instructing both
officers and men in their duty, and making them more reliable before
an enemy. The large number of sick will be much reduced, and
sickness will be prevented by the march in dry weather.
Reinforcements will come up. The disposition of the Mexicans for
peace will be thoroughly tested, and ulterior operations after
conquering the city and valley can be arranged. The war can be
vigorously pushed in the dry season, with ample supplies of
transportation. The new levies are utterly unreliable, and the main
dependence is in the old troops, scarcely six thousand effective
men. Not the least doubt is felt at our ability at this time to
enter the capital, and it is not to be disguised that every day's
delay increases the strength of the enemy's force and affords the
means to perfect his works. I believe, however, that our own
strength will increase in a greater ratio. The dry season will give
important advantages in our own counter-works, greater in proportion
than in those possessed by the enemy. Our victory will also be more
decisive, and will have greater results.
July 11, 12. The city has assumed its usual quietude, and it is to
be hoped that effective measures will be at once taken to put the
new levies in some state of efficiency. This morning (12th) a
squadron of dragoons under the command of Captain Kearny set forth
for Mexico with a flag in reference to an exchange of prisoners. A
general order has just been published announcing an early and
vigorous movement, directing reviews of the several divisions, and
the utmost attention to tactical instruction, etc. It is understood
the movement will commence on Tuesday, July 20.
July 18. It has been ascertained that Pierce will not reach Puebla
until about the first of August (he left Vera Cruz July 15 or 16),
and consequently the advance movement has been deferred. I trust it
will be deferred till the rainy season is over, and that in the mean
time a train will go down and bring up additional supplies. The flag
which went out on the 12th returned on the 14th. Captain Kearny went
as far as Rio Frio, and made the distance, about forty miles, in ten
hours. The flag is understood to have had reference to an exchange
of prisoners. No answer has yet been returned.
The review of the troops has been going on. General Twiggs has
unquestionably the best division in the service.
In conformity with instructions from the general-in-chief, Major
Smith made a report on the 13th in reference to the garrison and
munitions to be left in Puebla on the advance of the army to Mexico,
and the position to be occupied by the garrison. On the 15th
authority was given by the general to enlarge the engineer train.
July 25. It is now considered hopeless to negotiate with the Mexican
government until another blow is struck, and accordingly it has been
intimated from headquarters that the advance division shall move as
soon as the brigade of Pierce shall be within one day's march. As it
is almost certain that Pierce has taken the Orizaba road, he cannot
reach Puebla much before Thursday of next week, August 4, so that
the advance cannot be made till about Wednesday, August 3.
During the past week the conversations of the streets in reference
to the probabilities of peace or war have been constantly
fluctuating from one extreme to the other. Taking counsel of their
desires, people have eagerly caught at straws to convince themselves
that peace was certain. At no time, judging from actual facts, has
there been much probability that the difficulties between the two
governments would be adjusted at this stage of the business.
The governing class of Mexico are easily elated; are characterized
by remarkable tenacity of purpose and indomitable pride, which is
not disposed to submit to humiliation; and they have at their head a
fit representative in all respects, a man of extensive capacity both
for peace and war, and who possesses in an eminent degree genius for
command. In consequence of the long and necessary delay at Puebla,
the enemy have been able to organize quite a formidable force in the
City of Mexico, and to strengthen their position by batteries and
artificial obstacles, till now, with the spirit of hopefulness so
indigenous to the Spanish character, they believe themselves in
condition successfully to oppose us.
August 1. Last evening a courier brought notes from General Pierce
and Colonel Wyncoop of the 29th ult. The former was at La Hoya with
two thousand men, and no enemy on the road. General Smith, July 28,
with the 1st artillery, 3d infantry, rifle regiment of New York
volunteers, and one squadron of dragoons, went down to meet him, and
at the last accounts was at Ojo de Agua.
It is exceedingly difficult to push couriers through to Vera Cruz.
They are sure to be searched, and shot if papers are found on them.
Dispatches are made very short, on thin, small pieces of paper, and
concealed in the garments of the couriers. It is believed that the
enemy have relays of horses along the road from Vera Cruz to Mexico,
and that intelligence is transmitted at the rate of six miles an
hour. Every important transaction in Puebla is known at headquarters
in the City of Mexico in ten to twelve hours. With our limited
number of troops, it is impracticable to organize the line from
Puebla to Vera Cruz so that our couriers could travel in safety with
the same rapidity. Besides considerable garrisons in both Perote and
Jalapa, there would have to be a strong force at Orizaba, and
garrisons with stockade defenses on both the Orizaba and national
roads every day's journey, say fifteen to twenty miles apart. I say
it is impracticable so to organize our rear and have left a force
adequate to the reduction of the City of Mexico. In my judgment it
would be our true military policy immediately thus to organize our
rear, and remain in Puebla till a well-disciplined army could be
collected from the States.
On Thursday, July 29, a court of inquiry asked for by Colonel Riley
commenced its sittings, Pillow, Quitman, and Colonel Clarke,
members. That gallant veteran and most excellent officer, Colonel
Riley, has demanded an inquiry into his operations at the Cerro
Gordo, on the ground that the services of his brigade have not
received justice at the hands of General Twiggs and the
commander-in-chief in their official reports. Riley was a daring and
successful officer of the last war, and has been in more battles and
combats than any other officer in the army. Though advanced in
years, he is intrepid, decided, and of sound judgment. I doubt not
the court of inquiry will make a report that will soothe the
injured feelings of the gallant and good old man.
PUEBLA, MEXICO, July 8, 1847.
MY DEAREST WIFE,--I feel and know that here I can do some service
for my country. So long as my services shall be needed here, I would
not feel at liberty to ask to go home. I fear that peace cannot be
brought about till some great blow is struck, and another signal
victory won. Such is the wretched misgovernment of this people, and
so discordant are their public counsels, so corrupt and selfish
their public men, that I sometimes fear that the strong arm of
military power alone can pacificate the nation. No nation on the
face of the earth is a stronger exemplification of the strong
governing the weak. Wherever our army has gone, the people have been
benefited. You can hardly realize how conciliatory has been the
deportment of our people throughout. All along the road from Vera
Cruz to Puebla, beautiful fields of corn and grain were left
untouched, when our horses were suffering for food. Any aggression
on the property of the people is promptly punished and redressed.
The Mexican army ravage their own people, and leave a sad wreck
behind them. We pay for everything, and protect the people in their
rights. I believe the entrance of our army will give a fresh impulse
to this people. They are now but half civilized, taking the whole
population together. An impulse will be given to the arts of peace,
and the nation will be wiser and better for our coming among them.
You may be sure that I take great satisfaction in your writing
frequently to father. It will be a great comfort to him. I wish you
so far as you can to occupy my place as regards my own relatives.
Besides my father, Oliver, and Mary, I think many of them are much
attached to me, and that they have a very high regard for you. I
fear their expectations are much too high as to my prospects here. I
aspire to no higher distinction than to do my entire duty. Our
military establishment is so wretchedly organized that it is
difficult for a man of acknowledged merit to rise. In organizing the
ten new regiments very few promotions were made from the existing
organizations, in consequence of which some of the ablest military
men in our army see placed above them men totally devoid of capacity
or zeal for the public service. One of the colonels of the new
regiments is a dismissed cadet from West Point, and since I
graduated. One of the majors of the volunteer regiments is a
dismissed cadet of my own class, a very stupid and ignorant fellow.
The men of capacity and of merit have this satisfaction: in
difficult straits their counsels are sought and followed. The advice
of lieutenants, even, is taken when that of general officers is
disregarded.
Sunday, July 18. It is ten days since I wrote the above, nor is
there much prospect that what has been written, and what I am
writing now, will reach you for months. It is a great pleasure to
write, and I know that whatever I write you will be glad to read.
Pierce will not arrive in Puebla with his brigade before the 1st of
August, nor can we advance to Mexico till after his arrival. We
shall be detained here at least three weeks, a length of time
invaluable to get well our sick and put in good shape our new
levies. You can hardly realize either the scenery or the climate of
this place. To the west are the two snowy mountains of Popocatepetl
and Iztaccihuatl, their crests far above the clouds, to the north,
Malinche, hoar with occasional frosts, and in every other direction
gentle elevations, the whole inclosing one of the most beautiful and
fertile valleys in the world. Though in the nineteenth degree of
latitude and in midsummer, the climate corresponds with Newport in
the month of April. This is due to the snowy mountains, our high
elevation above the sea (at least 7500 feet), and the daily rains.
Every afternoon regularly, we have a copious shower, and frequently
a deluge of rain. I find four blankets and my woolen drawers
necessary to keep me warm. We need as much bedclothing as in
Bucksport in midwinter. I wear thick clothes all the time, and
sometimes an overcoat. The gentlemen of Puebla are accustomed to
wear their cloaks habitually. For one I could not dispense with
flannel underclothes. Yet we never have frosts, and all the fruits
and vegetables come to maturity at all seasons of the year. It is a
very trying climate. The extreme rarity of the atmosphere is trying
to all of us. It checks the insensible perspiration, and we have to
be careful to keep well. At the present time my health is perfect.
I was never better in my life, and this is the result of an
abstemiousness in both eating and drinking which I have practiced
ever since my arrival. We have an engineer mess of five officers.
For breakfast and supper we scarcely ever have anything but dry
toasted bread without butter and hard-boiled eggs. For dinner, meats
plainly but thoroughly cooked, and a variety of vegetables without
fruit or pastry. Fruit is considered unhealthy. In one of your
letters you inquire if my servant is not in my way. You must
recollect that our servants do our washing as well as take care of
our horses and attend upon us. My servant's part is to wait upon
table and clean the dishes. He has to take care of my room, make up
my bed, mend my clothes, see that they are washed and in good
condition, and take care of my horse. He is expected to spend much
time in cleaning my horse, and he has to ride him every day for
exercise when I have no occasion to use him myself. My servant's
name is Michael Cunningham, a native of New York, and a very
good-hearted and attentive fellow. Michael's only fault is that
occasionally he indulges in an extra glass. This I hope to correct.
My old soldier in Vera Cruz I was obliged to discharge for
drunkenness. Michael I found in Puebla. He was a soldier whose term
of enlistment had expired. I like this kind of life very much. But
you need not fear that I shall look back to it with regret, when I
find myself in the midst of my little family and by my own fireside.
Wherever we are, it is wise to be content. It makes one's duties
pleasanter, and our lives more profitable.
You may inquire how I spend my time. We breakfast at eight, dine at
two, and sup at seven. I generally rise in season for breakfast, and
go to bed about twelve at night. After breakfast I take a walk and
call on my friends. From ten to five o'clock I pass in my room in
attending to my official duties, which are now entirely sedentary,
and consist in preparing returns, reports, making drawings, etc., or
in studying my profession as found in the books which I brought out
with me, and which are a perfect treasure. Five to nine is spent in
visiting, talking, receiving visits, etc. Nine to twelve I pass
generally in reading. Thus my time is well filled, and I am being in
some degree useful and preparing myself for future usefulness.
Mason spends his time very much in the same way. I am studying daily
the Spanish language, and hope before leaving this country to be
able to speak it.
Captain Pitman, of Providence, now senior captain of the 9th
infantry, I see frequently. He came up with Cadwallader, and is
spoken of highly by those who have had opportunities to witness his
deportment as an officer. I have no doubt he will do good service,
though unfortunately his company is small, some thirty odd effective
men. He is determined to learn his profession, and will soon get his
company in good condition.
Sunday, August 1. My dear wife, since I have been an observer in
this country, I have been more and more convinced that the hero age
has not yet gone. This country, so highly favored by nature, a land
emphatically of sun and flowers, so abject in the slavishness and
brutality of its people, needs a hero spirit for its regeneration.
Cortez and his devoted band did a great work, a work fit for heroes
and prophets. His iron will and great soul planted Castilian
civilization and enterprise in the midst of a contracted and
superstitious people; and cities of fine proportions, magnificent
works of art, cathedrals to the worship of the Most High, gardens in
the arid plain and the dense chapparal and the wild forest field
soon greeted the eyes of men in attestation of his genius. But with
the decline of Castilian grandeur, Mexico ceased to be governed by a
race of heroes, and her governors and her priests have degenerated
into mere cumberers of the earth, having zeal only for their own
aggrandizement. Is not here a work for a Moses or an Alfred? Is he
not needed? And must he not arise? With the times must come the man.
But enough of this. We are still in Puebla, our army eleven thousand
strong, daily improving in health, discipline, and efficiency,
General Pierce some five days behind with that eagerly looked-for
mail that is to bring us tidings from our homes, and all eyes turned
to Mexico, ready for either alternative of peace or war. We all hope
that this vexed question may be settled here on terms honorable to
both countries. But if this is not to be, no man fears the ultimate
result. Every private in the ranks has a solid and well-grounded
conviction that our flag is never destined to retire, that no effort
of the enemy can pull it down. If we move onward, no mortal arm can
prevent the valley of Mexico from falling into our hands. General
Scott is a remarkable man. I will acknowledge that I was under wrong
impressions as to his character. Of a strong and comprehensive mind,
he has extraordinary tenacity of purpose, great self-reliance, and a
power of labor equaled by few men. He is emphatically the leader of
our army, and has its confidence. None of our general officers are
to be compared with him. He has his weak points, which I will not
mention now. No man in this army doubts his fitness to command.
August 7. Since writing the above General Pierce has arrived with a
mail from the States, bringing to me the melancholy tidings that my
sister Mary was in Cincinnati in the last stages of consumption,
unable to proceed farther on her way home. Oliver went on to bring
her home, and wrote me the very day of his arrival. I wrote you
yesterday by a courier employed at great expense to go down to Vera
Cruz, but it is very uncertain whether he will get through. All the
letters that have been sent to the States for months have been by
couriers, who carry 80 to 100 letters, each a very small package, at
two dollars per letter, and for the sake of the gain run the
gauntlet of the guerrillas and robbers that infest the road. About
one half get through. I trust that letter will reach you, as it
would, I think, serve to remove much doubt in reference to the
movement of our army upon the City of Mexico. Twiggs's division
commenced its movement to-day. To-morrow General Scott and staff
will leave Puebla, and reach Twiggs the same evening at San Martin.
Every one is in fine spirits, and no doubt is felt as to the result.
This letter I must now bring to a close, and get ready for the
march. I shall not be able to add to it till we enter the City of
Mexico, and go again into quarters. At that time not far distant, I
trust not more than fourteen days, I trust I shall be able to inform
you of a glorious victory and of my own personal safety. I for one
have not the least presentiment of coming personal danger. I simply
fear that my strength may not hold out to the last. But with
prudence I have little apprehension as to my strength proving
inadequate for my share of duty. I must now, with all hope and
confidence in the future, bid you good-night and my sweet babes,
commending you all to the care of that great Being who does not
permit a sparrow to fall to the ground without his knowledge.
[Illustration: THE VALLEY OF MEXICO]