attack from the enemy. Just before dark the general and others thought
they heard sounds of a bugle, in the chaparel on the Mexican side of
the river, supposing them to proceed from the enemy. In consideration
of our exposed position,--there being only one hundred and fifty of
us, with but little ammunition, it was thought prudent to station a
picket around the camp. The three companies were ordered out, and four
cartridges apiece distributed, then marched up to be reviewed by the
general. He told us what he had heard, and other causes which made
our position a dangerous one. He urged the necessity of watchfulness,
saying that we would never have so good an opportunity of showing
what we were made of. Many other things he said, calculated to excite
our attention, then dismissed us charging us to lay near our arms,
and not be taken by surprise. We returned to our tents, and arranged
everything, and lying as directed upon our arms, we made up our minds
to do our best, if we were disturbed before morning. About two hours
after midnight, we were suddenly aroused by a discharge of musketry
from our outpost, and the cry, “to arms, to arms.” In ten minutes the
whole three companies were at the general’s quarters.
I think I know now the feeling one experiences while going into
battle. My emotions this night I never shall forget. When first
aroused I seized my musket and equipments, and rushed from the tent in
the greatest excitement. The firing from the pickets, the universal
rushing, hurry and confusion, the impatient cries of, “make haste, men;
fall in,” etc., made me so nervous that doubtless for a few minutes, my
words were unintelligible. After a short period of agitation everything
was ready. As we were marching out to take our position, it seemed
that this would be a wonderful night in my earthly career, and my fate
was to be decided by my success in the coming conflict. I said within,
be calm and do your duty. I aroused all my energy and decision of
character. I then moved with an unwavering step, and would have given
all my possessions to come in contact with the foe. Our men never
marched better, dressing to the guide as it was shifted, with as much
calmness as when on ordinary drill.
Having formed our line in front of a dense chaparel, a party was sent
out to reconnoitre. Here I had a presentiment that the enemy would not
meet us; that this was not the night for our military laurels to be
secured. Had we met the enemy in the field of battle; had we gained
victory amidst adverse circumstances, how gratifying to ambitious
desire that friends should read eloquent descriptions of our deeds of
chivalry. Great was our anxiety while waiting for the return of the
detachment.
At length the party came; they reported to the general; the general
addressed us in complimentary terms, expressing his unlimited
confidence in our fidelity and courage. He dismissed us saying our only
enemies here, the wolves, had retired to the chaparel. We returned to
our tents crest-fallen, very few having a disposition to joke or laugh
over this evening’s adventure.
_10th._--At last we have departed from camp Belknap. The place that a
few months ago contained 8000 souls, is now without an inhabitant. I
left this beautiful spot with mingled emotions of pain and pleasure.
Here we had light duties, we had opportunities to hear from home, and
other sources of comfort. On these accounts I confess I left camp
Belknap with regret. But on the other hand it could be no longer said,
they still remain away from active duties and scenes of glory. I
thought of the upper camp and wonders in other lands. On these accounts
I left our old encampment with feelings of delight.
We transported ourselves, our camps and equipments to the river bank;
but how heavily many an hour passed away before the arrival of a
steamboat. We several times laid in provisions and cooked them for the
trip, and several times we eat up our provisions before we started on
our trip. It is said man is a poor economist in domestic matters, and
indeed our conduct on this occasion seemed to prove it.
Well, at last we are on board the steamboat Whiteville, the same upon
which many of us went some time ago to Matamoros. Before its arrival
the three captains drew lots for choice of quarters. Our captain was
successful, and he selected the boiler deck. But the captain of the
steamboat refused to let us occupy the place specified. His plea was
“’Tis unsafe, the boat rolls so.” Accordingly all three companies were
stowed away amidst the filth, noise and confusion of the engine room.
O! ’tis revolting to the feelings of one accustomed to the decency
and luxuries of civilized life, to be herded together like cattle in
some dirty little enclosure, and there treated with the hauteur and
chilling neglect of the most abject slaves. How the hot blood mantles
my cheek when I look at our situation. “The boat rolls so!” A fine
excuse truly! Other boats of no greater strength carry troops upon
the boiler deck; yet _this_ hireling says, _we_ “have no more right
there than his _firemen_.” Behold the sacrifices of the soldier! He
forfeits his self-respect, his sense of right and wrong, his liberty of
speech, his freedom of action, and his rank in society. All this for
the public good, and what is his reward? Why, _one_ ration a day, and
_seven_ dollars a month, the cold indifference of the hireling citizen,
and of the avaricious or ambitious officer, holding in his hand the
regulations of the Army. How many such officers when at home, in
newspaper articles or public orations, give vent to fires of eloquence
and of patriotism. They would shed the _last_ drop of blood for their
_dear_ country! but they seem mighty unwilling to shed the _first_
drop, or why don’t they shed a little reflection for the comfort of the
poor soldier, or why don’t they shed out some of their big salaries for
the advantage of those who have left firesides and friends for their
_dear_ country?
So far as this government boat was concerned, it had this regulation:
“No _private_ shall enter the cabin, or be permitted to sit at the
table,” the money or intrinsic worth of the soldier notwithstanding.
Well, I have this consolation, that I have endeavored to show proper
respect without _truckling_ to office or power. In my intercourse
and associations with officers, I have kept up appearances without
blushing, at the inferiority of my living to theirs. As to the monthly
pay of the volunteer, one of my messmates well expressed himself. “I
hope Congress may not increase our pay to ten dollars, for I never can
be paid with money for the wounds my pride has received.”
By the above remarks let it be understood that I am not finding
fault with the duties of the soldier. I am willing, God knows I am
willing, to do everything in my line of duty. Nor am I opposing rigid
discipline, for I hold that subordination is the life and safeguard
of the army. Yet the soldier has rights that should be protected, and
feelings that should be respected.
_11th._--We arrived at Matamoros this morning, before day. At sunrise,
several of us went up to the city, but saw nothing worthy of notice. On
my return, I stopped at the camp of the 4th Regt. Illinois Volunteers.
There I heard with surprise, that my old friend Sergt. R. C. had been
discharged on account of consumption. His brother sergeant of the same
company had died just before at Camargo.
About noon we shoved out and continued our serpentine windings.
Soon after starting several of us took seats upon the boiler deck,
determining not to be removed, when the captain approached and tapping
me on the shoulder, beckoned me to one side. He pointed below to a
wretched specimen of humanity, and remarked with energy, “Look there,
sir! look there! Would you have me take such men as that into my
cabin?” I replied, “must we all suffer from the imprudence of one man?”
“That’s it! That’s it!” said he, laying his hand on my shoulder. “How
can I distinguish? A whole regiment may suffer from the bad conduct
of five or six men, and one may injure the reputation of a company.”
“But,” said I, “if you had complied with the arrangements made, you
would have run no such risks, nor brought down the indignation of us
all. The Spencer Greys, sir, are gentlemen, and know how to behave
themselves; but you say we have no more right here than your firemen.
I tell you, sir, that if because we are volunteers, we have forfeited
in your estimation all title to respectability, it argues that you have
but little sympathy for us or the cause in which we are engaged.” I was
much surprised to see the calmness with which he took this harangue,
for it was delivered with much excitement. He at once attempted to
defend himself, denying some things and explaining others, but his
efforts were unavailing, for the narrowness of soul was still apparent.
Here others joined us and took part in the conversation, when I soon
after made excuse and left.
About sundown we laid up for the night just above St. Marie. This
little town is composed of several thatched huts, a neat little white
brick house, and a large cotton press. I thought this could not be the
enterprise of the natives, and sure enough, we found that the buildings
were owned by a gentleman from New Orleans. I inquired his name, but
have forgotten it. He sends his cotton into the interior to market.
What fortunes might be made here in the cultivation of cotton. As we
ascend the river whole acres of cotton may be seen uncultivated and
going to waste. Occasionally a few of the indolent natives may be seen
picking a little for their own use, and leaving the rest to rot upon
the ground.
The country now begins to assume a more favorable appearance. The river
banks are higher, and the lands back not so subject to inundation.
I have not seen any hills, or even more gentle undulations since we
started.
_13th._--Yesterday and to-day the time has glided away more pleasantly
than usual. Our officers called a meeting, and decided that we _should_
occupy the boiler deck, and at night have as much of the social hall
and cabin floor as is necessary to lie down.
During the afternoon, in conversation with the captain of the boat, he
spoke at length of the Mexican character, and gave me much information
respecting the natural resources of the country. The conversation
turned upon the war and its effects. Major Ringgold and Colonel Watson
were spoken of. The captain appeared to have been acquainted with them
both.
At night we laid up as usual, when nine of us set out in search of a
“fandango,” which we heard of in the neighborhood. After wandering
an hour we found that we had taken a wrong direction, and commenced
retracing our steps, when we were alarmed by the most unearthly yells
apparently approaching us. The sounds proceeded from a party of young
men mounted upon “mustangs,” on their way to the fandango. We stopped
them and conversed some time by signs, and made known our wishes to
accompany them. They now started ahead signifying to us to follow
after, which we did, imitating their yell of “uh! ah! whoop!” and
extravagant gesticulations. Soon they galloped off on their ponies
beyond our hearing.
Notwithstanding the discouragement, we resolved to proceed. The night
was dark, and the chaparel was gloomy through which was our pathway.
At a rancho we procured a guide, who moved reluctantly till we gave
him a dollar. This made him bound ahead yelling like a madman. Now in
the broad road, now in a circuitous path, through weeds and briars we
followed on and on, until the guide paused and appeared bewildered.
Had it not been for our resolution to attain our object, we should
have turned back. The Mexican gaining confidence, so did we and on we
went. Soon we came to another rancho, where we were beset by myriads
of dogs, but like their owners they soon retreated before our charge.
At length we arrived at our destination, where we were received with
great courtesy by the men, but with fear and trembling by the women.
They had evidently seen but little of the Americans, and doubtless our
being soldiers increased their timidity. It was some time before they
ventured to look upon our countenances, or enter into the dance with us
without considerable reluctance. But our kindness and liberality soon
gained their confidence, for after each set we escorted our partners to
the table, where were sold cakes, hot coffee and cigarritas. Everything
was in the open air. A large circle was formed with benches, and the
dancing went on in the centre. The whole was dimly lighted by lanterns
of oiled paper.
Both sexes were dressed principally in white. Uncleanness in dress, is
not one of the faults of the Mexicans, when we take in consideration
their mode of washing. Without tub, without washboard, they rub their
clothes on a smooth board, laid horizontally upon the ground beside
the stream. Occasionally they take up water in the hand and splash
the garment. Much might be said about the events of this night, but
this book is filling up too fast already. I know not when I shall get
another. Before we started we took leave by shaking hands with them
all. It was quite interesting employment to pass down a line of thirty
girls, squeezing their little hands. They certainly can say “Adios
Señor,” with a smile and “naiveté” almost irresistible. We arrived at
the boat precisely at twelve o’clock. To my surprise I found it was my
night for guard, but it was not too late to perform my duties.
_14th._--Yesterday we passed Reynosa, but the boat not landing we saw
very little of the place.
This morning we got aground, where we were until evening. The Corvette,
coming down, generously stopped and pulled us off, after breaking three
large cables.
_18th._--Well, here we are at last, opposite Camargo on the banks of
the San Juan. Through great patience and tribulation, we have at length
encamped on the most disagreeable spot that might fall to the lot of a
soldier. The sand ankle deep and kept in continual motion by the wind
and constant traveling. It reminds one of the simoom on the desert of
Sahara. Twice to-day I went to Camargo. First as bearer of an order for
new canteens and haversacks; and secondly, for wild mules to be broken
for baggage wagons. We only succeeded in getting five, but must draw
the rest in the morning.
Before I returned to the camp, I attended the funeral of an old Mexican
lady, which to an American was a great curiosity. The procession
followed the priest to the house of the deceased. He was attended by
three little boys with long cylindrical poles of brass. The one in the
centre bearing the representation of our Saviour’s crucifixion; the
other two bore long wax candles. They were dressed in long frocks of
red flannel, and something like white waistcoats, which were intended,
perhaps, to represent wings. On the sides of the priest were two other
boys, with a silver censer and a kind of pot with water and sprinkler.
The shoulders of the priest were covered with a velvet mantle, richly
ornamented with silver. Each one in the procession carried a long
candle with a black ribbon in the middle. After remaining half an hour
in the house, they proceeded with the corpse to the church, accompanied
with singing and music from the flute and violin. The lid of the coffin
was carried at one side, leaving the body exposed all the way. On the
black covering of the lid, was a cross formed with white tape.
In the church the coffin was placed upon a table covered with black
velvet trimmed with silver lace, and a large silver candlestick at each
corner. Immediately in front of this was another table decorated in a
similar manner with lace, and having candlesticks. On this were skulls
and bones lying. The room was handsomely furnished with images of
Christ, the Virgin, and many of the saints. After lighting the candles
they began chanting the service, accompanied by the flute and violin,
which composed the exercises, and lasted more than an hour. The music
ceased only while the priest sprinkled the corpse and moved over it the
incense. They repaired at length to the grave-yard, still chanting and
playing, while the chimes tolled their deep melancholy tones. At the
grave what a sight to behold! The ground was strewed with skull bones
and partly decayed remains of humanity. Every new grave they dig they
disinter a body, though it is not necessary, to make room for another
coffin.
After a short ceremony the priest retired, followed by the boys. The
coffin was filled with dirt, each one putting in some, and the lid was
then nailed on and lowered into the shallow grave. When covered over,
the soil was beat down with a large stone, and left level with the
surface.
As we came back we met another funeral escort, but unlike the first.
The body was uncoffined, unshrouded, and unattended by the pomp of
ceremony, or the lamentation of friends. The dead man was guilty of
poverty. But the _last_ may be _first_.
Having returned to our camp we all entered upon the culinary
preparation of four days’ provisions. To-morrow we shall, if ready,
start for Monterey. If ready, I said; the mules must be shod, and
broken in time for the harness. The right wing may leave us, which we
all hope will not be the case.
The reported deaths to-day of Mexicans in Camargo, was thirteen,
mostly from measles. No wonder this disease is so fatal with Mexican
treatment. When the malady is fairly broken out, they apply cold water
and drive it in, and the consequence is, the patient is driven into
the eternal world. I should like to speak of many more things which I
have seen to-day, but the lateness of the hour, and my weariness will
prevent it. I am now afflicted with the first cold since I left home.
Two items more shall be mentioned. Another was received this evening
into the mess; and it is said the needle-eyed soul of the Whiteville
has been discharged from the captaincy for dissipation, and inattention
to duty.
_19th._--Pursuant to arrangement, we set out to-day for Monterey. We
were awakened before daylight, but we did not start before noon. Many
of us have been in Camargo to-day, to obtain five more mules, and
exchange flour for bread. Our haversacks are stored with four days’
provisions. Here is a list of eatables; 1st, bread; 2d, boiled pickled
pork; 3d, coffee; 4th, salt. Soon we shall realize the fatigues and
trials of a wearisome march. For my future perusal I shall give a
minute description of the sufferings and incidents of our tedious
journey.
The road to-day was ankle deep in dust all the way, which nearly
suffocated us. It arose so thick at times, that we could not see the
company in front. We, however, kept up our spirits to the highest
pitch. Bursts of merriment followed the glances and expressions of all.
We were truly an antiquated looking group, with our locks and hair
covered faces whitened with the dust.
About sundown we arrived at our first encampment, having traveled nine
miles. The 1st regiment of Indiana had started in the morning, and had
already pitched their tents. The 3d regiment had gone ahead. I feel
very tired with sore feet and aching bones. A cup of coffee has helped
me somewhat.
_20th._--This morning I arose greatly refreshed, and ready to march
twenty miles, the reported distance to Mier; but before night I felt
very differently, and every step was exceedingly painful. My feet were
badly blistered, and every sudden movement of my arms, was like the
piercing of sharp instruments. These acute pains were occasioned by
the straps and weight of my knapsack, which contained all I possessed.
Fancy to yourself the burden I was bound to support. The cartridge box
with forty rounds of ounce ball cartridges, bayonet scabbard and belts,
the haversack of provisions, canteen with water, musket and knapsack.
Let the stoutest carry such loads twenty miles through dust and hot
sunshine, and I assure you they will gladly stop for the night. The
straps of my knapsack bound me so tight, that I could scarcely breathe.
The pain at times was so excessive that I became bewildered, and all
things seemed to swim around me. But pride forbade complaint and I
jogged on; while others, apparently hardier than myself, gave out, and
had their burdens lightened. It was dark when we pitched our tents in
sight of Mier. After much seeking, sufficient wood was obtained to boil
our coffee, and give light for the writing of these notes.
_21st._--In the morning I felt greatly invigorated. I was quite
disappointed in not getting a better view of Mier, a place that will
long be remembered, in consequence of the awful tragedy which was acted
there. Last night too much worn out to visit it, and this morning took
unexpectedly a route that did not pass through its streets. Oh! the
sufferings of the twenty-first. The sun shone with the power of July,
and the dust how annoying! My nose so sore with blowing that I dare not
touch it; and my lips so blistered that I cannot tell when they are
closed. The heat, dust and salt pork made us so thirsty, and how we
did suffer for want of water! So great was our thirst, that we drank
largely of a pond covered thick with a green scum.
Having trudged nineteen miles we arrived at Cannales’ Run, where
we encamped for the night. Nearly overcome with the march, feet
exceedingly sore, and so scalded with sweat, that they did not look
like flesh and blood. But bathing them in cold water made them much
better. After being seated a few minutes I was so sore and stiff,
that it required almost a superhuman effort to move. But I kept up
appearances, and did not acknowledge the extent of my fatigue. I had
resolved to fulfil the prediction--“I can stand the march!” Great
praise is bestowed upon us by the trains, saying we are the strongest
regiment in the field.
_22d._--What an astonishing effect is produced by a few hours’ sleep.
Last night I stretched my aching, stiffened limbs upon the ground, and
how refreshed this morning and ready to march twelve or fifteen miles
to Point Aguda. My feet are becoming hardened, but after stopping
it is some time before I can walk without great pain; but a little
marching prepares me for jogging on better than ever. The march of the
twenty-second would have been much easier had we not lacked bread. Just
think, half a baker’s loaf at breakfast for eleven men, and no more
till we stopped at night.
Here we had a pleasant camp beside a clear running brook, and near
a beautiful cascade, constructed of stone and cement, in order to
turn the channel through the town. How pitiable is the indolence of
the natives. Such natural advantages are neglected. What a mill seat
is here; yet the poor women crush their corn between a stone roller
and slab, in a barbarous manner upon their knees. What a lack of
enterprise! Two companies of Ohio volunteers are stationed in this
place.
_23d._--This is our fifth days’ march, and about one half way to
Monterey. The 1st regiment keeps before, and discommodes us greatly by
their train. This day I did very well. Feet getting well! Thanks to
cold water!
We pitched our tents near the old Spanish town of Ceralvo, which
bears the impress of an antiquated fortress, and reminds one of the
dilapidated castles we read of in romances. The houses are built of
gray stone, with loopholes for windows. Through the centre of the town
runs a beautiful clear stream, spanned by bridges and arches. There is
also a large cathedral with chimes and a towering steeple. It is said
to be 166 years old. Three companies of Ohio troops are stationed in
this place.
_24th._--This sixth day’s march, the easiest of all. Feet nearly well,
and bones don’t ache so grievously. The beautiful scenery by the way
contributed to my ease in marching.
It was not yet light when we left Ceralvo. As the rising sun cast his
radiant beams upon the mountains on the left, I think I never beheld
anything so beautiful and sublime. The whole chain, as far as the eye
could reach, appeared like piles of burnished silver, shaded out in
delightful golden tinges. I gazed upon this wonderful scenery with such
exalted enjoyment, that I forgot the toils of my journey. How thankful
am I, that in my heart are placed such sources of happiness. How
majestic are the works of God! And what exhibitions are these of his
Omnipotence! At length the mists of the morning were dispelled by the
heating rays of the sun. Then in a short time what a change! Where the
rich magnificence was displayed upon the mountain tops, were huge piles
of rocks reaching up to the clouds. But still was left the imposing
grandeur of the scene.