“The day before yesterday another and myself obtained permis

[Illustration:

BATTLE

_OF_

BUENA VISTA]

A

CAMPAIGN IN MEXICO.

BY

“ONE WHO WAS THAR.”

“Variety is the spice of life.”

PHILADELPHIA:

JAMES GIHON.

AND FOR SALE BY ALL BOOKSELLERS AND COUNTRY MERCHANTS

SOUTH AND WEST.

1850.

PREFACE.

In thus bringing myself before the public as an author, I offer no

apology. I make no pretensions to literary merit. The following

pages were written in the confusion and inconvenience of camp, with

limited sources of information, and without any expectation of future

publication. I offer nothing but a faithful description of my own

feelings, and of incidents in the life of a volunteer. To such as may

be interested in an unvarnished relation of facts, connected with the

duties, fatigues and perils of a soldier’s life, I respectfully submit

this volume.

B. F. SCRIBNER.

NEW ALBANY,

_Indiana_.

PUBLISHERS’ NOTE.

To the interest of a simple personal narrative, this volume adds the

value of a faithful description of that part of a soldier’s duty in the

camp and field, which is necessarily excluded from official accounts

or general histories. It attracted in manuscript the attention of the

publishers, as a work similar in spirit and purpose to Dana’s “Two

Years before the Mast,” although necessarily less varied in incident,

and less comprehensive in information than that very popular production.

The map of the field of Buena Vista by Lieutenant Green, of the 15th

infantry, is presented as the most accurate yet published, having been

approved by many distinguished officers as a true representation of

the ground, and of the relative positions of the corps of the American

and Mexican armies, on the day of the battle. A careful examination of

the map and references, will afford a clearer idea of the movements of

both, and of the progress of the action, than any of the descriptions

which have yet appeared.

INCIDENTS

OF A

CAMPAIGN IN MEXICO.

_July._--We left the New Albany wharf, July 11th, 1846, at one o’clock

A.M., and are now winding our way to New Orleans, on the noble steamer

Uncle Sam, _en route_ to the wars in Mexico. I am wholly unable to

describe my thoughts and emotions, at leaving my native home, with its

endearing associations, and embarking upon a venturesome career of

fatigue, privation, and danger. I stood upon the hurricane deck, and

could see by the moonlight crowds of my fellow townsmen upon the bank,

and in the intervals of the cannon’s roar, returned their encouraging

cheers. As we glided down, the last objects that met my lingering gaze,

were the white dresses and floating handkerchiefs of our fair friends.

How few of us may return to receive their welcome!

I am becoming more and more impressed with the aristocracy of

office. Those who hold commissions have the best pay, the best

fare, and all the honor. The private performs the work, endures the

privation, and when the toils and sufferings of the campaign are over,

forgetfulness folds him gracefully in her capacious mantle. The cabin

has been reserved for the staff and commissioned officers, while the

non-commissioned and privates enjoy decks the best way they can. I

now realize that when one takes up arms voluntarily in defence of his

country’s institutions, he forfeits his claim to gentility, thereby

rendering himself liable to all kinds of cold, cheerless inattention.

Under a full appreciation of this fact, one of my companions and

myself applied to the Captain of the steamer for a cabin passage. He

granted our request, with the Colonel’s consent, and by paying extra

ten dollars, we were permitted to occupy the last remaining room, and

enjoy the very great privilege of sitting at the same table with our

titled superiors.

There are five companies on board, and all appear in good spirits.

They are following the bent of their several inclinations. At a table

above me is a group of “Greys” busily engaged in signing resolutions

indicative of their disapprobation of the course of Gov. Whitcomb and

his advisers, in officering and forming our regiments. I will not here

try to show how all our plans have been frustrated, nor speak of the

many discouraging circumstances under which we go away; suffice to

say, I willingly signed the resolutions, which will be sent home for

publication. I pause to listen to a song in which Prof. Goff appears to

lead.

How pleasing are the impressions made upon the mind by a beautiful

landscape, when advantageously seen and properly appreciated. We have

just passed three islands lying almost side by side, thereby giving

great width to the river. They are indeed beautiful. Viewed in the

distance they appear like three huge tufts of grass.

_12th._--Our noble craft is now ploughing the bosom of the “Great

Father of Waters.” There is something truly sublime in beholding a

mighty river moving on in its course, defying every resistance, and

bearing silently on towards the ocean. There is a tiresomeness in the

scenery upon the banks of this noble stream, when compared with the

diversified character of that found upon either side of the beautiful

Ohio.

It is remarked generally by those among us, accustomed to travelling,

that a more orderly set of men they have never seen than the volunteers

from Indiana. The Greys attract much attention by their jokes and

animation. They lead in the dance, and three of their number take the

front rank in music. Goff with his guitar, Tuley with his violin,

and Matthews with his vocal accompaniments, constitute a musical

trio, possessing power to cheer the soldier’s saddest hour. I have

formed quite an agreeable acquaintance with the clerks of the boat,

who manifest much interest in my future welfare. We have just passed

the mouth of the Arkansas river, and I do not remember to have seen

a single farmhouse for a distance of many miles, that indicates

competency or convenience.

_17th._--After a most delightful trip of five days we arrived at the

great City of the South, and are now encamped on the “Battle Ground”

of the memorable 8th of January. We are almost deluged in water and

mud, as it has rained almost every day since we left home. Having

pitched our tents, several of us not particularly delighted with our

new quarters, sought more congenial lodgings in the city, where we have

remained ever since, but shall rendezvous and proceed to camp in the

morning. In relation to my visit to the city, I shall not particularize

except to say, that I delivered a letter of introduction kindly given

me by a friend, and was joyfully recognized and received.

_18th._--In pursuance of appointment, several of us met next morning at

the Lower Market, negotiated with some Spaniards to take us in their

sail-boat to the encampment, and were soon under way. Having arrived,

we were forced to wade from the river to our tents, nearly to the knees

in mud and water. We were truly in a sorry plight.

Some of the more enterprising in camp have greatly improved their

condition, by laying cordwood in the bottom of their tents. Our

condition is rendered more insupportable from the fact that the

“Barracks” are so short a distance from us, presenting so much of

comfort. We truly envy the regulars.

On the afternoon of the same day we received orders to strike tents and

prepare for embarkation, which we joyfully obeyed. About midnight five

companies were economically stowed under the hatches of the ship Gov.

Davis. Our vessel, together with the Partheon, also containing Indiana

troops, was soon towed onward to the Gulf.

_19th._--We entered the Gulf next morning, and started upon our course

with a fair wind, which, however, was of short duration. It soon

commenced raining, and while I write, head winds impede our progress.

Sea sickness and low spirits prevail. I have not yet been affected by

the former, but am by no means realizing the pleasure trip, which some

of my friends anticipated. If they could spend a night in the hold of

this crowded vessel, they would not dream of citron groves or perfumed

bowers.

_20th._--In view of bettering my condition last night, I sought new

lodgings by climbing up under the seat of an inverted yawl, where I

slept, or tried to sleep; for the seat was short, narrow and hard,

as my bones can testify. It was also dark and stormy. The wind, rain,

thunder, lightning, and creaking of the ship, as she heaved and surged

through the billows, filled my mind with fear and anxiety, and kept

me the whole night clinging to my narrow perching place. The sky is

now clear, and wind fair, and the whole face of nature changed. We

are gracefully gliding through the white spray, as it glitters in the

sunbeams. The gorgeously tinted clouds are reflected upon the waves, in

all the colors of the rainbow. This is the first time I have enjoyed a

scene at sea, or fully realized being out sight of land. The undulating

motion of the vessel, instead of making me sick, produces real

pleasure. How exhilarating to feel ourselves riding up, up, and down,

down with such regularity, fanned by the breezes that whistle through

the sails!

_21st._--Last evening was spent in organizing a debating club from

the soldier fragments of the Caleopean Society, together with several

new members. Grave and powerful speeches were made, and the question

“Should the pay of volunteers be increased?” was discussed in a

masterly manner. Arguments on both sides were unanswerable, and

consequently unanswered. But as the exercises were got up more for

amusement than improvement, they closed at an early hour, with a

musical finale by the trio performers, who, with the captain of the

ship, and others were convened upon the quarter-deck. We then stretched

ourselves upon the deck, where we slept undisturbed, save when in the

way of the sailors managing the ship.

This morning there appeared to be a general depression of spirits

among the Greys. Complaints were heard from many who before had not

been known to murmur. Our quarters between decks are truly unenviable,

and the heat and stench almost insupportable. We had a fine treat

to-day for dinner. The captain of the Greys had the good fortune to

capture a young shark. It was very acceptably served up in the form of

chowder. The wind is rather more favorable than it has yet been, but

our progress is still slow, and it is the general opinion, it will be

several days before we arrive at Point Isabel. Another and myself spent

a portion of the afternoon upon the quarter deck reading plays from

Shakspeare, after which we were all richly entertained in listening to

the glowing descriptions of Napoleon and his marshals by Headley.

_22d._--We have now fair wind, and are making fine speed. This morning

the reading party was broken up by the fantastic gambols of a shoal

of porpoises. This was quite an incident, and was hailed with much

pleasure by the ennui-burdened passengers. At noon we found by the

altitude, that we were but six hours’ sail from Galveston, and but

half way to our destination. The captain says if the wind continues

favorable, we shall, however, reach there in two days. I have felt

gloomy and low spirited all day; owing, I suppose, to our uncomfortable

situation.

_23d._--This has been a miserable day. I do not think I ever spent

one more unhappily. In fact, ever since I have been aboard this ship,

I have had the blues most supremely. The crowd, the confusion, the

dirt, the continual heaving of the vessel, and the dismal wo-begone

countenances, of companions, are well calculated to fill the mind with

reckless despondency.

_24th._--We are now lying at anchor five miles from Brazos Santiago.

About 8 o’clock, last night we witnessed the affecting sight of

a burial at sea. It was indeed a thrilling scene. The moon and

stars shone in all their brilliancy, as if indifferent to human

woes. The body of the dead wrapped in his blanket--the soldier’s

winding-sheet--was brought upon deck. A few words of consolation to

friends composed the ceremony, and the body was lowered into the quiet

deep, food for the “hyenas of the ocean.” I never shall forget the

foreboding pause of the vessel, or the awful splash of the corpse

as it fell into its watery grave. With sad emotions awakened in my

bosom, I lay down upon the quarter-deck, and was ruminating upon the

blighted hopes of this unfortunate youth, when I was aroused by an

approaching storm. I sought shelter in the hold, but the crowd, the

heat, the stench and the groanings of the sick, rendering it almost

insupportable, I soon went aloft, preferring death by drowning to

suffocation. The rain had ceased, but having lost my blanket, I was

forced to take the wet deck and make the best of it. We shall have to

remain on the vessel anchored in the offing, until conveyed ashore by

steamers, to procure which the general and staff have just started in a

long boat.

It is grateful, under any circumstances, to have friends, but how much

additional pleasure it gives to find them among strangers. To find one

here and there, who can sympathize with us in misfortune, and feel

interested in our welfare, when we least expect it, is calculated to

give us better views of humanity. My thoughts were directed to this

subject by the kindness of one of the mates of the ship. One day,

when I was sitting in a rather musing mood, he introduced himself

by familiarly accosting me with “Frank, how goes it?” After some

conversation on matters of present interest, he inquired how I came

to volunteer. I explained to him some of the causes. Among others

I told him the “Spencer Greys” was an independent company formed

several years ago, and chiefly composed of young men of New Albany.

They had attracted much attention by the splendor of their uniform,

their prompt and accurate movements in the drill, and their superior

skill in target firing. They had won many prizes from neighboring

companies, and thereby gained a celebrity, as possessing all the

requisite qualifications to meet the foe, providing courage, that

essential quality in a soldier, was not wanting. The call went forth

for volunteers, and the inquiry was naturally made, “Where are the

Greys?” To say nothing of the many motives that may prompt, pride to

sustain the reputation already gained was sufficient for most of us.

Our company was filled up, and we reported ourselves in readiness to

the governor, and were duly accepted. Here my new friend was called

to supper, and upon declining to accompany him, he kindly insisted I

should receive a package of finely flavored cigars, upon which I can

regale luxuriously.

_25th._--We are still waiting in the most painful suspense and anxiety,

for transportation ashore. For my own part I have made up my mind to

bear everything like a philosopher. I entered upon this campaign,

expecting to meet with privation and suffering; and judging from the

past I am likely to realize my expectations. But trifling officers,

and our very unpleasant situation on this filthy ship, are distresses

that most of us overlooked in our calculation. Hereafter I am resolved

to take everything easy, and complain as little as possible. Surfeited

with bacon and hard mouldy bread, and in consideration of the frequent

invitations from the mate to eat with him, I went to the steward, and

negotiated for one dollar a day to take my meals at the table of the

ship. After dinner I was beckoned to the lower cabin by my friend the

mate, where he brought forth a rare collation, upon which we feasted

like epicures. He opened his chest and showed me many curiosities from

China, Java, and other foreign countries. He also furnished a list

of clothing, handkerchiefs, paper, pencils, and lastly his hammock,

and begged me to take freely anything that would contribute to my

comfort, as it would give him great pleasure to share with me. I

declined receiving anything upon the ground that I was well provided,

and could not carry his hammock, upon the comforts of which he so fully

expatiated. I did, however, accept a superior cedar pencil, and warmly

thanked him for his kind offers. He tells me he is a native of Boston,

and a brother of Thayres, who is interested in the Boston and Liverpool

line of steamers.

_26th._--We are spending another Lord’s day in a heathenish manner.

There are very few among us who spend the day differently from other

days. We have not yet heard from our officers. Most of us have ceased

to make calculations upon the future. How strangely is man subject to

fluctuation of feeling!--with what suddenness the mind can fly from

pleasure to pain! Last night I realized this in its fullest sense. I

was seated astern luxuriating under the influence of a fine cigar,

(thanks to my new friend,) and for the first time witnessed a clear

sunset at sea. It was one of the most glorious scenes I ever beheld.

The whole western sky was illuminated with the most gorgeous colors.

The refulgent sun slowly sinking into the liquid blue until nearly

immersed, sank at once, and a dark mist shot upward in his pathway to

the clouds, which still retained their variegated tints. The whole

scene was sublimely beautiful, and filled me with a joyful enthusiasm.

The sea breeze, and the graceful rocking of the ship contributed to

the effect. At such a moment how sweet is the thought of home, and the

pleasures we long to share with loved ones left behind! These alluring

reflections led me at length to a vein of melancholy, and produced a

complete reaction in my whole feelings, which harmonized well with the

changed and threatening aspect of the gathering clouds. We have just

been thrown into a state of intense excitement by the arrival of a

steamer which has taken three of our companies. The rest will remain

till morning.

_27th._--According to arrangement, the steamer arrived this morning,

to transport us to the island. During the bustle of transfer, we were

attracted to the stern of the ship, where the sailors had caught a

shark, on a hook baited with bacon. Soon a great crowd was collected,

many climbing over the bulwarks and among the rigging to witness the

captured fish. He was at length harpooned and shot, but was so large

we could not conveniently bring it on board. Just as we were leaving

the ship an affray took place between the steward and one of our men,

which was soon participated in by the mates, and many of our party.

Several blows passed, pistols were presented, and for a time serious

consequences were feared, but the trouble was soon settled, when the

mate understood the circumstances of the case. It appeared that one

of our men and an officer claimed the same piece of ice, each one

persisting in having bought it of the steward, to whom it was at last

left to decide. He declared in favor of the officer and gave our man

the lie, &c. Then came the knocks. But as I said before, everything was

soon adjusted, and we separated with perfect good feeling. As we shoved

off the mates and crew (steward excepted) leaned over the bulwarks, and

gave us three hearty cheers. We landed at Brazos Santiago about noon,

having had several hard thumps as we passed the reefs.

_28th._--Yesterday about dark we pitched our tents, and ate our

suppers, after which many of us proceeded to the beach, and enjoyed

the luxury of sea-bathing. The convenience here for this refreshing

operation cannot be surpassed. We waded out on the reefs and turning

our faces to the shore, received the angry surges upon our backs,

or facing them again could see one after another coming at regular

distances, roaring like a cataract fall, and with foam and spray,

dashing onward, like a white plumed army rushing to the charge. In

regular succession they swept over our heads. We were all highly

delighted with the novelty of the scene, which may be enjoyed, but not

described. After rising this morning, the first thing was to repeat

the exercises of last night, which greatly refreshed us, and sharpened

our appetites for the morning meal. The scorching rays of the sun came

down upon us “doubly distilled and highly concentrated;” the effects

of which are, however, greatly counteracted by the sea-breeze. The

thermometer stood yesterday at 90°.

The island is about 3¹⁄₂ miles wide, and very prolific in oysters,

clams, crabs and fish. It may be compared to a sand bar occasionally

diversified by little mounds, which are moved about by the storms that

visit it. I am told that not long ago several families were destroyed

by one of these dreadful tempests. One of our officers, when walking

along the beach the other day, unconsciously trod upon the exposed body

of a man partially decayed, that two weeks ago was buried six feet

in the sand. I am informed that the 1st Indiana regiment will leave

for the Rio Grande in two days. If this be the case, our stay here

will not be long. There are about 5000 troops here, most of whom will

leave before us. We are in fine health and spirits, and continually

congratulating ourselves, upon our escape from the detested ship.

_31st._--I have spent the last two days in running about, and in

writing letters to my friends, one of which I shall here embody in my

journal, as it contains all that has transpired since my last date:

“Having already delayed too long, in hopes of sending you some news,

I will commence at once, as your facilities for obtaining the truth

are not much better than mine. There are so many conflicting rumors

continually floating about the camp, and orders arriving daily

purporting to be from Gen. Taylor, that we are getting to believe

nothing, and to make as few calculations upon the future as possible.

I shall therefore send you nothing in the news line that I don’t think

correct.

“The 1st and 3d Indiana regiments left yesterday for the Rio Grande,

the mouth of which is eight miles down the beach. From thence they will

be taken by steamboats up the river. We expect to start on to-morrow.

Some say we will stop at Barita, and others at the head-quarters

opposite Matamoras.

“I am sitting upon the sand and writing this, while some of the

boys are cooking, others washing, and some enjoying the luxury of a

sea bath, hunting shells, oysters, &c. We would all present a novel

appearance, could you see us now. I sometimes almost lose my own

identity. The sudden change of occupation and associations affects us

all.

“The health of the company is good, and all are making the best of

everything. We have but two or three sick, and they are recovering,

except one, and he is very low. He has been prevailed upon to accept

a discharge, and will return home in the first vessel. He is a good

fellow, and all of us regret to part with him.

“General Lane has just returned from an interview with General Taylor,

bearing orders for us to leave in the morning. Another election in our

regiment for Colonel will take place this evening, and, if possible, I

will send you the result.

“The day before yesterday another and myself obtained permission to

visit Point Isabel. We accordingly set out early in the morning. After

crossing the Brazos in a sail-boat, we first visited the hospital

containing the sick and wounded of the 8th and 9th. The rooms were

large and airy, and everything characterized by cleanliness and order.

It is an affecting sight for an American to behold his countrymen

wounded in carrying out the demands of his government, to see them with

their legs and arms blown off, rendering them ever afterwards incapable

of enjoying active life. I was surprised and delighted with the

patience and good humor they exhibited, and with what good feeling the

infantry and dragoons joked and rallied each other. The first instance

was brought about by my addressing one of them with, ‘My friend you

do not look much like a wounded man.’ Said he, ‘I wasn’t much hurt,

but that man sitting on my right, belongs to May’s dragoons, who have

so immortalized themselves. He was shot all over with six pounders.’

The one pointed out pleasantly rejoined. ‘You are jealous because we

fought harder than you did.’ Then turning to us he continued: ‘Yes,

the infantry got into a difficulty and cried, “come and help us;”

that was enough, so we rode up and saved them; now they envy us our

distinction.’ ‘No we don’t,’ replied the other, ‘no we don’t. We

know you did all the fighting. Uncle Sam could not get along without

you.’ ‘Do you see,’ said the dragoon, still addressing us, ‘how they

try to take away our laurels? I will not talk with my inferiors. You

know our privates rank with their orderly sergeants.” We then passed

on to others, who freely answered all our questions. They are all

convalescent with the exception of one prisoner, who was shot in both

legs. One leg has been amputated, and it is supposed the other will

have to be, and that he will not be able to survive the operation. From

here we proceeded to the armory, and were shown some copper balls taken

in the late battles. We then visited Major Ringgold’s grave. It is

enclosed with a wooden fence, the rails of which are filled with holes,

so as to admit musket barrels. These form the palings, the bayonets

serving as pickets. Two boards painted black serve for tombstones.

The newly made graves of volunteers were scattered around, with no

names to distinguish them. Thus we realize all their day-dreams of an

unfading name. We then retraced our steps towards the quartermaster’s

depot, stopping at intervals to speak with the regulars, who were very

courteous and patronizing, evidently feeling their superiority.

“At the outer edge of the entrenchments, we passed by a party of

Mexicans. We could not but exclaim, ‘Are these the people we came to

fight against?’ You can form no idea of their wretched appearance,

without thinking of the most abject poverty and ignorance. They had

brought hides to sell, on carts with wooden wheels, drawn by oxen

with a straight stick lashed to the horns for a yoke. Having arrived

at the quartermaster’s, we were shown some pack saddles, and camp

equipage taken in the two battles. I never was more disappointed with

the appearance of a place than I was with Point Isabel. The government

houses are built principally like barns with canvas roofs. There are in

the place only three or four old Spanish huts, with thatched roofs; the

rest are tents and canvas covered booths. Capt. Bowles has been elected

Colonel by about 100 of a majority. We start for the mouth of the Rio

Grande to-morrow at daylight.”

_Aug. 1._--As I stated in the foregoing letter, W. A. Bowles of Orange

County is now our Colonel elect, Captains Sanderson and Reauseau being

the opposing candidates. I shall here refrain from speaking of the

present defeat, but I am well assured that Sanderson was honestly

elected at New Albany; and yet losing one of the company returns, was

enough to break the election, although the clerks were willing to

swear that Sanderson had a majority! How we have been gulled and led

about by a set of political demagogues, who, regardless of the fearful

responsibility, have forced themselves into positions they possess no

qualifications to fill, with a hope thereby to promote their future

political aggrandizement. O! shame on such patriotism!--According to

orders early this morning, we took up the line of march for the mouth

of the Rio Grande, stopping only to prepare to wade the lagoon. Having

arrived, we pitched our tents to await transportation.

_19th._--By way of relating what has transpired in the last two weeks,

I will copy a letter to two of my relatives, containing most that I

would have journalized.

“I received your letter, and under no circumstances could it have been

more acceptable. The company left the mouth of the Rio Grande on the

3d inst., except one of the lieutenants and myself, who were sent

up the day before with eight men, to guard the commissary stores. We

arrived at this place, Camp Belknap, fourteen miles below Matamoros,

in the night, and remained on duty in the rain and mud with no shelter

for twenty-six hours. When the regiment arrived, we exchanged the duty

of sentinels for that of pack horses. We carried our baggage and camp

equipage, nearly a mile through a swamp, into the chaparel situated on

a slight elevation or ridge. It is universally admitted that a chaparel

cannot be described. I shall therefore attempt it no further than to

give some of the outlines of its character.

“At a short distance it is indeed beautiful, resembling a well

cultivated young orchard. Upon a near approach we find the largest

trees do not exceed in size the peach or plum tree. These are very

crooked and ill-shaped, with pinnate leaves somewhat resembling the

locust. They are called musquite trees, and are scattered about at

irregular distances. The intervals are filled up with a kind of

barren-looking under-growth, which meets the branches of the former.

Prongs of this bush, with sharp steel-colored thorns, shoot out in all

directions, commencing just above the surface of the ground. The rest

of the chaparel is composed of all kinds of weeds, thickly interwoven

with briars, and interspersed with large plats of prickly pear and

other varieties of the cactus family.

“I am conscious I have not done this subject justice. My powers of

description are inadequate, and in order to have a full and clear

conception of a chaparel, you must see and feel it too. Two days

occupied in clearing it away, preparing for an encampment, will give

any one a clear idea of its character. The expression so common with us,

All bushes have thorns

All insects have horns,

is almost true without exception. Even the frogs and grasshoppers are

in possession of the last mentioned appendages.

“Our encampment is beautifully situated upon a grassy ridge, bounded

in front by the Rio Grande, opposite Barita, and in the rear by a vast

plain bedecked with little salt lakes. Now if you think this a romantic

spot, or that there is poetry connected with our situation, you need

only imagine us trudging through a swamp, lugging our mouldy crackers

and fat bacon, (for we are truly living on the fat of the land,) to

become convinced that this is not a visionary abode, but stern reality.

I have yet encountered but little else than sloughs, thorns, and the

‘rains and storms of heaven,’ and consequently have not appreciated the

clear nights and bright skies of the ‘sunny South.’ At present we have

finer weather, and it is said the rainy season is nearly over.

“I hope that by speaking freely of things as they are, I am not

conveying the idea that I am discontented. Notwithstanding the

attractions of home, and the greatness of the contrast when compared

with these scenes, I never yet have regretted the step I have taken. We

sometimes think it hard to bear with the ignorance and inattention of

our field officers. The badly selected ground and our frequent want of

full rations may possibly not be attributable to their ignorance and

neglect, but they are certainly the ones to whom we look for redress.

Other regiments around us better officered, fare very differently. I

visited another corps the other day, and to my surprise found that they

had for some time been drawing an excellent article of flour, good

pickles, and molasses. This was the first time I knew that such things

could be obtained, except from the sutlers, who charged seventy-five

cents per quart for the last-mentioned article.

“The more I see of our boys the stronger is my impression that a better

selection could not have been made. Our messmates are all well chosen,

and had we no other difficulties than those incident to a soldier’s

life, a happier set of fellows could not be found. The plans we form to

enliven, not only succeed with ourselves, but attract other companies.

Our quarters are frequently sought by them, to listen to our music, and

look upon our merry moonlight dances.

“I am sometimes struck with the patience and philosophy exercised, even

while performing the humiliating drudgery of the camp. In my own case I

do not know whether it is owing to my selection of companions or not,

but I have never realized the exhaustion and fatigue a description of

our manner of procuring water and provisions would indicate. I have

just returned from one of these expeditions, and will here give you a

faithful description of the schemes resorted to, in order to lighten

our burdens. Another and myself set out with two iron camp-kettles

swung upon a tent pole. Walking about half a mile up the ridge, we

came to the crossing place--the narrowest place of the slough, which

ebbs and flows with the tide. This is unfit to drink on account of

possessing the essence of weeds, distilled by the combined action

of water and sun. In this clime he trifles not, but sends his rays

down with earnestness and energy. Well, after struggling through the

tangled weeds with water nearly to the waist, we in due time arrived

at the bank of the river, dipped up our water and sat down to rest.

We found but little inconvenience in getting water from the stream,

as it was filled to the top of its banks. The country here of late

has been almost inundated. The oldest residents say such a flood has

not been before for thirty years. If there is fatigue in going with

empty buckets, you may readily conceive what is the effect of filled

ones returning. The pole was kept continually twisting by the swinging

motion of the kettles, it being impossible to keep them steady on

account of the irregularities of the road. The difficulties of the

journey were greatly augmented by the depth and tenacity of the mud,

which kept us plunging about, and to our great consternation, causing

us to spill the precious liquid.

“From this description you may think we had a cheerless trip. It was

not so. All was characterized by good humor. We started out crying

the lead, ‘a quarter less twain,’ until we exhausted the vein; then

turning military, the command was given, ‘guide right, cover your file

leader, left, left, left,’ &c. The novelty of the scenery and _genial

influences_ of the sun,--for I know of no other cause,--gradually

excited our minds as we proceeded through the quiet wave, and inspired

us to more noble and exalted demonstrations. Glory became the subject

of our song. Touching quotations from the poets, and inflamed,

impressive recitations, from ardent, patriotic orators and statesmen,

were resorted to, expressive of the high aspirations with which we

set out upon this glorious campaign. We then in lower tones spoke

of the realization of these day-dreams. With feelings thus awakened

we continued our wade. As we approached the land, whether it was

owing to a sensitive feeling upon the shoulders, a general physical

debility, the interesting associations, or the lulling murmur of the

ripples in our wake, I pretend not to say; at any rate ‘a change came

over the spirit of our dreams.’ Our minds reverted to the pleasing

recollections of home. The departed shades of good dinners, and clear,

cool refreshing drinks, rose before us, seducing our appetites from

coarser fare. Thus ended our trip, which, from our own reflections, and

the ludicrous contrasts of the present with the past, wound up with the

heartiest merriment. Safely landed, we drained our boots and proceeded

to tent No. 1., where the water was received by our thirsty messmates

with countenances expressive of joy and satisfaction.

“The day before yesterday we lost one of our comrades, John Lewis, who

died from the effects of measles. Not one, to my knowledge, taken down

here with this disease has ever recovered. He was the second in size in

the company, and possessed a powerful frame and a strong constitution.

We gave him a soldier’s burial. We have obtained discharges for all our

sick who are dangerously ill. There is but a small chance for recovery

here. The disease may be partially overcome, but to regain strength,

when but little reduced, is almost impossible. I don’t wonder that our

hospitals are full when I think of that dreadful slough. For my own

part I was never blessed with better health. Ever since we landed at

Brazos, I have not in a single instance failed to report myself fit

for duty, at roll call every morning. None have escaped better. The

boys say I look so much like a Mexican in complexion, you would hardly

recognize me. I cannot say much about my face, as I seldom get a sight

of it, but my hands look very much the color of a new saddle. You would

be surprised to see the bronzing effect of the sun upon our finger

nails. This climate suits my constitution admirably, you therefore need

give yourselves no uneasiness about my health.

“I do think I never had anything diffuse joy more suddenly through my

heart, than did the arrival of your letter. I had just returned from

wading the slough, loaded with provisions, as the company was going out

on four o’clock drill. I was wet to the waist, and worn out by heat and

over exercise. I perceived one of the lieutenants beckoning to me with

a paper in his hand. As soon as he attracted my attention, he threw it

on the ground, and hastened to join the company, which was marching to

the parade ground. I seized it, and without changing my clothes read it

over, and over again. It was soon spread among my friends, that I had

received a letter, and congratulations from all were showered upon me.

I read the expression, ‘Home; that word is dearer to you than ever,’

which met with a hearty response.

“The camp is continually agitated by rumors brought in by our scouting

parties. The other day the regiment was ordered out, our effective

force computed, and ammunition distributed, on account of one of these

reports.

“You say you often wonder what I am doing. I will give you our daily

order of exercises. We are aroused at daylight by the reveille, and

have a company or squad drill for two hours; after which eight men and

a sergeant, or corporal, are detailed for guard. Company drill again

at four o’clock and regimental at five. The intervals are filled up

in getting wood, water and provisions, cooking and washing. Hunting

parties go out sometimes and kill fowls, cattle, wolves and snakes. One

day last week mess No. 14 served up for dinner a rattlesnake seven feet

long. There are many things I should like to write, but having already

spun this letter to an outlandish length, I conclude by thanking you

for the attention and consolation you have given my dear mother. The

affectionate regards of my brothers greatly encourage me. I am writing

this lying on the ground, with my paper on my blanket, and with noise

and confusion around.”

_31st._--If our spirits are depressed, and loneliness and ennui pervade

our feelings, when in good health, how much greater must be the

discontent and gloom that weigh upon us when sick? Nothing could be

more unenviable than my situation for the last two days. Last Thursday

we moved our encampment about a mile further down the river, below

the slough, upon the ground formerly occupied by the 2d regiment from

Kentucky. The heat, rain, violent exertions and other causes combined,

have brought upon me the prevailing disease of the season. I have

suffered from accompanying headaches and fever. My condition has been

much ameliorated by the kind attentions of officers and men. These

examples of generosity are teaching me gratitude, but I place myself

under obligation as little as possible.

If any one should wish to fully appreciate home with its endearing

associations, let him imagine himself a sick soldier, with his body

protected from the ground only by the thickness of his blanket, a coat

or knapsack for a pillow, and the hot scorching sun beating through

his crowded tent. And in the intervals of a burning fever, should his

aching bones find repose in sleep, and in dreams

“Friends and objects loved

Before the mind appear,”

yet how fleeting are all earthly joys! The company on the right must

be drilled. He dreams again. He meets in fond embrace the object of

his purest affections, and is about to snatch a warm kiss of welcome.

That detested drum. Complain not. The sentinels must be relieved. I can

write no more now. My head grows dizzy.

_September 2d._--Last night the whole encampment was thrown into the

most intense excitement, by a row which broke out between two companies

of Georgia troops, who were embarking on the steamer Corvette for

Camargo. The combatants were principally Irish, and fought with their

characteristic determination. Although we were some distance from the

river, we could hear distinctly the blows, and demoniacal yells of

the rioters, which were truly appalling. The conflict continued for

two hours, during which several were killed, and wounded, and quite a

number terribly bruised, and others were knocked overboard and perhaps

drowned. Colonel Baker, of the 4th Illinois regiment, marched on board

with twelve men, and demanded peace. He was himself attacked by four

men with bayonets, which he warded off with his scabbard, at the same

time defending himself with his sword, from the attack of the Irish

captain, and succeeded in disabling him, by thrusting his sword into

his mouth, and cutting open the whole side of his cheek. A savage

yell was immediately heard from the mob, and the report of a pistol,

which was aimed at the brave colonel’s head. He fell badly wounded,

the ball entering the back of his neck, and coming out of his mouth.

Then came the cry, “Help, your colonel is shot,--they have killed

Colonel Baker.” This was too much, and we made a simultaneous rush

for our arms. Colonel Bowles ordered out five companies, the Greys

among the number,--and in five minutes we had a line formed around the

boat, and the riot quelled, before the Illinois regiment had arrived.

The exposure of last night has quite laid me up to-day, although the

captain of the guard called me from the ranks, and sent me to my

quarters long before morning.

This has been a solemn day. We had two burials, and it is thought

Colonel Baker will not recover. The whole day has been occupied in the

court martial, which has resulted in sending the officers engaged in

the riot, under arrest, to General Taylor, who is now at Camargo.

_7th._--I am as well as ever again, and on duty. The regiment has just

been mustered by Captain Churchill, for two months’ pay. I have been

gloomy and low-spirited all day. When I reflect upon my situation here

in contrast with that at home, I can hardly realize that I am the same

person. Everything appears like a dream, and I almost believe I am

acting a part in which my own character is not represented. I am thrown

among the temptations of camp, but do not think the effect will be

demoralizing, or its impressions lasting. The more I see of vice and

dissipation, the firmer I believe a moral and virtuous life constitutes

the only sure guarantee of happiness. If permitted to return home, I

shall better appreciate its blessings, be a better friend, a kinder

brother and a more dutiful son. The more I know of the world, the

higher value I set upon friends. Oh! how sweet to enjoy their society,

and feel the capacities of the affections filled with congenial

objects! Here I have nothing to love, no one who knows my heart, or

understands my feelings. When I recall the impressions of mind under

which I volunteered, I have a presentiment that an unhappy fate awaits

me. I doubt whether a warm heart or a flowing soul is a source of more

pleasure than pain to its possessor. * * * *

_14th._--Two others and myself have just returned from a visit to

Matamoros. Three or four days since we left the camp in company with

several of the officers, on board the steamer Whiteville. They were

going to draw pay. The captain of the boat was quite disconcerted to

see so many of us (nearly twenty in all), coming on board. Having got

under way he still insisted he could not accommodate us; that he had

no right to stop for us, and that our orders from the quartermaster

were nothing to him. After much debate in relation to provisions,

starvation, &c., we settled down, and made up our minds for the worst,

which was bad enough, to say the least. The boat lay-to at night on

account of fog and the serpentine windings of the river. We stopped

twice to wood on the way. The ranchos along the banks are principally

owned by the rich, who live in the cities. General Arista’s crossing

was the first place we stopped. There are here about half a dozen

thatched huts, and about twenty “peons” employed in cutting wood, and

hauling it on carts with wooden wheels. Quite a number of us went

ashore and distributed ourselves among them. I went to the farthest

hut, where I was greatly amused by the little urchins. They were

running around the yard perfectly naked, notwithstanding the rain was

pouring down in torrents. I approached the house which contained one

man, two women and three or four children. They all arose, and made

the kindest demonstrations for me to enter. I declined, at the same

time pointing to my muddy feet. They signified “never mind the mud,”

and I walked in and seated myself upon a bench. One of the females

furnished me with a cushion to sit upon, covered with cloth of their

own weaving, which was fringed and ornamented with the brightest and

most showy of colors. We could understand each other very well upon

some subjects, such as the various articles of clothing, and the

prices of the different materials. Everything in the room was of the

roughest construction. The fire was placed at one end of the room upon

a floor, which was of the most primitive order. An aperture in the

roof served for a chimney, which but partially performed the agency.

They were destitute of chairs and bedsteads. Hides spread upon the

ground constituted their beds, an arrangement admirably adapted to

prevent injury upon the heads of children, caused by falling during

the dreamy hours of sleep. I was greatly pleased with the two women,

and with one especially. She appeared to belong to a higher station.

She was apparently about twenty-one, and looked very differently from

any of the sex I had yet seen in that region. Her forehead was high

and intellectual, her countenance was animated and intelligent. In

her ears were large golden pendants, which contrasted strangely with

the rude furniture around. Her beautifully delicate hand did honor

to the glittering jewels encircling her tapering fingers, which were

gracefully entwining the hair of her companion seated by her side.

Perhaps my preference for one was induced by the approving glances from

her “large, dark, eloquent eyes.” She had smoothed for me the cushion,

and flattered me with her looks, and I being in a frame of mind

rather susceptible to kind attentions, my vanity was very naturally

somewhat excited. They were both attired in the simplest manner. A

white chemise, and skirt girded around the waist with a yellow silk

sash comprised the whole arrangement. Their small beautiful feet were

not cramped in stockings or shoes, or their ankles hid with a skirt

too long. Their bosoms were not compressed in stays, or mantled in

cashmeres, but heaved freely under the healthful influences of the

genial sun and balmy air of the sunny south. I approached the mat where

they were sitting, and took the hand of a little girl, and touching

the shoulders of my favorite, I pointed to the child and asked if it

was hers. She shook her head, and looked intelligibly towards her

companion. I then took up the child in my arms and pointed to the

“States,” as if I would take it home with me. They both snatched the

child with great fondness, exclaiming “no, no, no,” to the infinite

amusement of the men who came around me, making every demonstration of

gratification and good will. At this interesting crisis the steamboat

bell summoned me, and by running at full speed I arrived just in time,

while one of the party less fortunate was left behind. He was greatly

frightened, and plead earnestly, but his supplications were in vain.

The captain said he could walk across the country, and get to Matamoros

before we would. I would almost willingly have exchanged situations

with him.