Newspaper Page Text
C|ir runes*
COLUMBUS, GAv
WEDNESDAY, NAY *T, 1846.
* Tinn Office” on Randolph Street, in the
tfrirthorpr Mkliߣ,iH rraf of the Post Office.
TUB ADMINISTRATION, AND THE
WHIG PRESS.
The blast of tho war-trumpet from the Rio
Vrrende has been the signal for burying the
hatchet of political faction by the American peo
r*e- In a spirit of thorough Nationality, the two
parties have agreed to adjourn tlieir domestic dis
putes, and Whigs and Democrats, shoulder to
aitouMrr in-the same volunteer ranks, kj)ow each
other only as American citizens, united by the
•strong ties of a common patriotism, and emulous
only of serving and defending their country and
chastising its enemies. Such is the spirit of the
People. Wc say, that there are ex
ception* to this noble spectacle. There are some
with whom party ism being a profession, has be
come also a habit so strong, that its raven croak
ing* of bitterness are howled forth in the din of
•rrm and the tumultous shouts of a patriotic peo
ple. The readers of the newspapers of the day
will be at no loss to refer to
• f< w (and rejoice K ”
Whig Editors. As was t"B ‘ >fHWßfle< t< ■!.
this howl, (which like dis
turb* the solemn repose of yard) is rais
ed by those papers, which have always been most
tinvielding, uncompromising & inveterate in their
party hate. Tho Richmond Whig, the Na
tional Intelligencer, the New York Tribune, and
in our own State, the Savannah Republican and
Augusta Chronicle & Sentinel are readily indi
cated as belonging to this class. It appears to
have been the chief study of these presses how
to turn the events of the present war—its incep
tion and its conduct *o far, to the account of mak
ing capital against the administration. They
have assailed the policy of occupying the East
bank of the Rio Grande—denied our right to the
country, in the face of an hundred records, mak
ing our title as cleir as day—they vililied the Gov
ernment for provoking a war, while the history of
the past 20 years falsifies the charge and proves that
for all that time, nothing hut the pity and forbear
ance of this confederacy has saved Mcx ico from ter
rible retribution for long arrearages of insult and
wrrong. Some have gone so far as to justify the
passage of tho Rio Grande by the enemy, and the
slaughter of our troops because it was their soil,
and our troops were invaders. They abused the
administration for sending Gen. Taylor with a
handful of brave soldiers to be cut to pieces ; and
the ink that writes the eomplaint is scarcely dry
Aicfote the thunder of Taylors’ cannon announces
a glorious victory and vindicates the gallantry of
itis little army from all suspicion of its weakness
and incompetcncy to self-defence. If Gen. Tay
lor, had been cut oil’ as these gloomy Seers pre
-dictad, what curses would they not have hurled
at the administration! By the converse rule of
justice, the lustre of the victory is shared by the
Government, and while such presses can never
be brought to acknowledge it, a just and patriotic
people, WILL.
We hare before us an artiele from the Savan
nah Republican, headed, “who is to blamel”
In which the Editor true to his instinct of indis
criminate, fault-finding, and with a genuine Whig
Editorial justice, answers that upon Mr. Polk
is the whole responsibility-responsibility for what?
When the Editor wrote, ho had leaped to the
pleasing conclusion that Point Isabel had fallen
into the hands of the enemy, and that Gen.Tav*
lor and his army, were, hemmed in, and cut to
pieces by the Mexicans. But the gallantry of
our troops has deprived the Republican of the
intense gratification of rolling this sweet morsel of
discomfiture under its tongue, and of using it as
the occasion of a fresh howl at the administra
tion. We take up and repeat the question,—
•*Who is to blame !” Who is to blame, for se
lecting the noble Taylor to command the Ameri
can forces ! Who is to blame for the successful
repulse of repeated assaults upon Gen. Taylor?
Who is to blame for saving Point Isabel ? Who
is to blame for the brilliantly fought fields of the
U?th and 9th of May ? for the repulse of a charge
f Lancers by the 7th Regiment and the gallant
to'xp-de-main of Capt. Mays’ squadron of Dra
goon* 1 Unfortunately for the Republican, there
is nobody to blame. Success, honor and glory
nhine out from every movement of the little Army,
and we commiserate the pangs which the Re
publican must endure, in being unable to point
to disasters to our arms, and saying to Mr. Polk )
••this is your work.”
In tlie course of the artiele, the Republican in
dulges in this remarkable sentence:
“ Indeed the whole conduct of the administra
tion, in regard to our Mexican relations, has been
condemned by every candid mania the country,
not excepting the friends of Mr. Polk.”
A declaration which we deny ioto coeio, and
nrhat proof does the Republican bring to sustain
this extravagant assertion 1 Why, the Charles
too Mercury forsooth ! The Editor might as well
have paraded the testimony of the New York
Tribune, the Richmond Whigor the National
Intelligencer. The Charleston Mercury! The ad
ninistration has not a more bitter enemy than
this same Charleston Mercury—an enemy the
more bitter, because an enemy without cause—an
enemy, not from reason, but from passion ! an
enemy to an administration that has faithfully
and religiously sustained every principle that it
pnfeaes to hold dear ; an enemy instigated by
the demon of factious discontent! We are naus
eated with quotations into Whig papers, from
the columns of the Mercury as the testimony of
a friend against the administration.—As a friend
of the administration, we repudiate and reject all
such tokens of friendship as the Mercury has
exhibited since the hour that Mr. Polk took up
Che cans of office. Asa friend to the adminis*
tzmtioa, ve beg that press for God's sake to throw
eftke mask that iffy conceals its hostility, and
boldly take ground with the party which it now
ahly aad successfully serves. Its palpable desti
ny is to go over to the Whigs—let it go at once
aad if it cannot without a wry face swallow all
rnf the principles of its new associates (including
the protective Tariff) it will enjoy the eonsola
*• es consistency and perfect freedom in its
warfare upon the administration.
XEXICAS POPULATION.
It is said that of 7,000,000 of souls comprising
tha population of Mexico, 4,000,000 are Indians,
and of the remaining 3,000,000, only 1,200,000
am whites. Ami these last are not so very
whhoL
A HOAX.
A report readied us by the Baltimore papers,
Aat the Liverpool Btea user was in, and brought
Wn es the death of Louis PhilUppc, King of the
Preach, and a revolution in France, ft turns
ratttobc 4 Ih*v.
THE WAR.
After getting ready for press on Tuesday night
wc received tlie intelligence of the two glorious
battles fought by Gen. Taylor against the Mexi
can. We kept back our papei 1 to publish a brlcF
Post Script account of it. The news will amply
repay our readers for the delay. To-day we pub
lish full and interesting details of the two en
gagements. These speak trumpet-tongued of
the vigor, discipline and gallantry of otir little
army. Wc remember Ho-battle in which the
conduct of officers and men, the excellence of
gunnery aiyl the amount of destruction so dis
proportioned to the force of % two armies were
more signally'displayed. The whole history f
these fields and of all the operations on the Rio
Grande are powerful arguments in favor of our
unequalled school of military education—-West
Point. Wc trust these cheering results of a sci
entific and manly training to arms at the Milita
ry Academy, will hush the clamors which have
always been heard from a few members of Con
gress against that Institution. With unexperi
enced, unskilful and uneducated officers, the
present standing of our arms would have been
far different, and instead of rejoicing in the glory
reflected by the gallant army of occupation upon
the Military character of our country; we might
now have been smarting under the losses of Point
Isabel and camp Taylor—the keys to Northern
Mexico. m
While rejoiccing at our successes, let not the
country be unmindful of the brave men who in
falling the first victims to the war have sealed them
with their blood and lives. Cross, Mclntosh Brown,
Ringgold, Porter, Mason, Chadbumc and Enges
arc amongthe names of those knownjto have fallen.
Let not the adage prove true that “Republics are
ungrateful”—and while their memories, their
deeds and soldierly deaths are embalmed in the
hearts of their countrymen, We hope a more sub
stantial token of gratitude will be given by the
Government of the country to the families of
such of them as have lost their protectors and
supporters in the public service.
TROOPS FROM GEORGIA.
The Government of the United States has made
a requisition upon the State of Georgia, for a Re
giment of Troops, to be called into immediate
service. The Governor has accordingly issued
a circular to the Captains of Volunteer Compa
nies, inviting them to complete their organization
according to the requirements of the War Depart-*
ment and to report their commands forthwith to
Head-Quarters. The organization required is as
follows :
1. Captain, Ist. and 2d Lieuts., 4 Sergeants,
4 Corporals, 80 privates and 2 musicians—a total
of 93 men.
It is understood that Columbus will be the
place for Rendezvous, and that the whole force
numbering little short of 1,000 men will concen
trate at this point, in about 10 days.
ARMY NEWS {
For the last three weeks, Tuesday, nights mail
has brought us late and stirring news from the
Army. It may be that it will happen so to-night.
If so, onr paper will be kept from press to receive
it.
We have a little later intelligence since our
last, which will be found below :
Correspondence of tlie << Times.”
Galyestox, May 19, 1840.
Dear Sir:—The iiteam Ship New York ar
rived here late yesterday evening from the Army
at Brazos Santiago; this steamer carried down
300 volunteers ; soldiers are hastening down
from Texas. Gen. Taylor’s requisition upon
this State will be more than complied with. The
Galveston Volunteers leave to-day, this city has
raised 300 volunteers. There has been no en
gagement since the departure of tho Galveston,
the particulars of Which I sent J*f>u. The infor
mation received by the New York is, that the
enemy are retiring beyond the line—Gen. Taylor
making preparations to cross the Rio Grande.
I think it likely the Mexicans will fight better on
their own soil. Texas has sentdown soldiers that
long for an opportunity to avenge the nidrder Os
Fartnin and many more of their brave comrades,
all they desire is, that Gen. Taylor Will march for
Mexico—will Georgia raise a volunteer band for
this occasion. Very respectfully.
From the Galveston News Extra, May 18, 1846.
The Steamship New York arrived about 3 o’-
clock P. M., having left the Brazos St. Jago yes
terday about 11 o’clock, being 25 hours from bar
to bar.
Soon after the decisive rCpillse tjf the Mexicans
on the Dth, Gem Taylbr finding that the enemy
had entirely disappeared and left the communi
cation between his encampment and Point Isabel
unobstructed} collected the baggage and-plutidbr
which they had left} and returned to his depot
at Point Isabel J having previously sent word to
General Arista that he had permission to send
over 200 men to bury his dead.
The news is not important; No further engager
ments have taken place. As far as we can Jearn,
the Mexicans appear to have retfeated to the oth
er side of the Bravo.
We learn from Capt. Phillips that Gen; Taylor
is now at Point Isabel having returned from his
encampment. He is directing his operations
against Matamoras, and expediting the march of
the troops to that point as fast as they arrive.
On Friday night a detachment of 1000 volun
teers and regulars took up their line of march for
the purpose of crossing the Rio Grande at the
mouth, intending to enter the city of Matamoras.
They were to be joined by 500 stamen, in boats.
The steamboat Vesta left on Sunday morning for
the mouth of the Rip Grande for the purpose of
assisting the troops in crossing the river at that
place.
A correspondent of the Delta, from Point Isa
bel, in a letter dated 19th may says:
“We have here quite a hospital of wounded
men, comprising 43 privates, three Mexican
prisoners—one of whom has lost both legs—and
the following officers of the U. S. Army :
Col. Mclntosh, sth Infantry, was pierced thro’
the mouth with a bayonet, and shot in three
places.
Col. Payne, Insp’r Gen.; shot ill the hip;
Capt. Page, 4th Infantry; lower jaw, part Os
the tongue and upper teeth entirely shot away;
He is suffering dreadfully.
Capt. Hoe, sth Infantry; right arm shot off a
bove the elbow.
Lieut. Gates, Bth Infantry; right ami broken,
and Bhot in the left hand.
Lieut. Jordan,Bthlnfantry; shotandbayonetted
in several places.
Lieut. Luther, 2d Artillery; lower lip shot off
It is expected that all the the above will recov
er, but most of them will require great care.
News lias just arrived that a body of marines
from the fleet anticipated the arrival of Col. Wil
son at Burita, by marching upon the Mexicans,
who immediately evacuated the post. The inhab
itants of the town then hailed the marines, and
forthwith sent them fresh beef and other provi
sions. We are going there, nevertheless, al
though our fond hopes of a fight are scattered
like chaff.
IHPRIgOXINvi THE AMERICAN CON
SUL. AT NATAMOROS.
It will be perceived that the American Consul
and'all the American citizens at Matamoros, have
been arrested and sent to Selata, a small town in
the interior, 130 miles from that city. It seem
from thU decisive step that Mexico has commenc
ed in earnest. She has assumed a position from
which there is no receeding, and it only remains
for us to show her that the sleeping
lion is roused at last.
The statement of the death of Mrs. Cross,
widow of Col. Cross is contradicted.
How do so many fablc3 get into the newspa
pers !
The Mobile Register says, the news which
reached here on Mofiiday, of the actions of the
Bth and 9th, was despatched by express to Mont
gomery. The carrier, a lad of fourteen years of
age, named Tyler, left Blakely at 4 o’clock in
the afternoon, and reached Montgomery at 5 o’-
clock next morning, riding the distance of 186
miles in 13 hours. We believe this feat to be
unprecedented in the history of expresses.
A P. 6. in the last Richmond Eiiquirer, says:
A gentleman just from Washington informs
us that Com. Perry has been appointed
command of the Fleet in the Mexican Gulf—=*
Cctai. Conner having been placed over the Ord
nance Department; and that it is most probable
that none of the Volunteers from the Atlantic
States will be Sent at present to Texas. They
will be reccired, and disciplined, and held ready
for action.
GEN. SCOTT.
It is Understood that Gen. Scott is to take com
mand of the army in Texas. We hope not. In
common with the whole country, wc should re
gret to see Gen. Taylor superseded. “ Old
Rough and Ready,” as his troops call him, has
proved himself to be “the man” for the occasion.
He is worthy to lead his troops, and according to
Geh. Vega, 20,000 of such troops could conquer
the world.
The “doomed Army of Americans” is the lan
guage almost universally spoken by the Eastern
press in allusion to Gen. Taylor.
CAPT. MAY.
The Tfopic represents this gallant officer as a
very singular character. With a beard extend
ing to his breast (it says) and hair to his hip
bone, which as he cuts through the wind on his
charger, streams out in all directions, he presents
an imposing appearance. His gait on foot is
awkward, and that of his horse (an immense
one) is the rack of the Canadian pony;
The New Orleans Courier says 2
“TFe have seen a letter from this gallant officer
to his brother, in this city, dated Point Isabel,
May 13. It was received last Sunday by the Col.
Harney. The Captain tells his brother that the
squadron at the head of which he charged the
enemy’s battery, contained 82 men; and of these
he had lost one officer and 10 privates killed, and
13 wounded—that nearly one-third of his men,
and almost half of his horses are hors du combat:
The Captain himself was not touched, which for
tunate circumstances was owing to his being a
bout ten yards in advance of his.squadron in the
charge.
Tlie Captain was born in
ton where his father, Dr. May, who died a few
moths ago, was highly respected by his fellow ci
tizens of all classes; he left six or seven sons; all
fine looking men, not one of them under six feet
in height. The Captain, who has so highly dis
tinguished himself in the late operations on tlie
Rio Grande, some years ago, when quite a youth
attracted the notice of Gen. Jacksoh by his fine
horsemanship, and the old chiefappointed him a
cornet in one of the regiments of dragoons, then
organizing. The General was a good judge of
men, and in the instance of young May, his pre
sentiment has been fully vcrriiied.”
Mttitrbe, Tcnn., May Otli, 1846.
Dear Sir :—Having no acquaintance in your
place, induced mb Id address and line tb ydh—that
such portions of the inforniatioh as you may
deem of sufficient interest, may be made public;
in tho early part of April two scoundrels past
through this section of country, passing counter
feit money and stealing and robbing, where an
opportunity offered; one of them alternately call
ed his name Roberts, Robinson, Thomas and
Speed, his true name not known here, he is about
thirty or thirty-five years of age, .about five feet
ten inches high, spare built, fair skin, sandy hair
and beard, would weigh about 140 pounds, the
other called his name Staples; lie is about 28
years old, black eyes and hair, about 5 feet, 9 or
10 inches high, slender made, both profess to be
physicians, they stated they.were from Georgia ;
they were arrested in Monticello, Kentucky, for
passing counterfeit money, they had in their
possession at the time, five Gold Watches which
were no doubt stolen, and I think it probable
froitl your State; three of these watches they
gave to theif lawyers who live in Monticello,
Kentucky, Messfs; Beard and Stone. Staples
was committed to jail, but iri and foW days broke
out; Roberts was discharged a few days after
their arrest in Monticello. Roberts in company
with another confederate, retufned through this
neighborhood and on the night of the 13th ult.
broke dpen my house and stole from me a very
fine Gold Watch, gold chain and seal, the watch
has the name of Mortdn engraved on the inside
case, with some letter or letters proceeding the
name, not recollected ! on the same night they
entered the dwelling of Thomas Cape, one of my
neighbors, and stole from him $l3O in money,
we pursued them and overtook tlleitt about fifty
miles from here, and succeeded itt taking one of
them who is now in the Jail at Livingston, his
iidnie is Beacham, but he called his name Gor
don; Rdberts or Robertson made his escape, car
rying witli him the stolen property, it may be that
he will return to your section of country, if so, I
shollld be glad to hate him secured, so that he
coilld be made to answer for his crimes committed
here, if the owners df the Watches at Mdriticello,
should need any aid in recovering them I will
afford them every facility in my power to affect
that object, and I Would feel thankfhl for similar
aid in the recovery ofitly watch. ’
I aai tcry respectfully,
Your ob’t. serv’t.
Edward n. cuLlone.
Post Master, Columbus, Ga.
Frbjn the New Origans Ddltai
War declArbd by congress.
We have the great satisfaction of referring
otir readers to the Brief sketch of the proceedings
in the Senate of the United States on the 12th
inst., which we give in another column. The
result is a signal triulflph of the national will
over as able but as ill assorted an Opposition as
ever banded together, influenced by opposite aims
to effect a common object The final vote was
by no means the important one. The test ques
tion—that which went either to censure or sus
tain the Executive—to leave our army free to
avenge their wrongs or to pinion their arms leav
ing them targets to be shot at by Mexican ma
rauders—was the votfe offered bv Mr. Crittenden
so to alter the preamble as to deny the fact that
War exists, and at the same time to prevent the
chastisement of the Mexicans, except when found
east ot the llio Grande. It was to carry this
point that the United forces of the opposition put
forward all their strength and rallied with all their
force, and although when they lost this they felt
that all was lost, they kept up their lire until the
vote was taken.
On this motion of Mr. Crittenden to strike out
the preamble, the question was taken, and result
ed as follows s
Yeas — Messrs. Archer, Barrcnc, of La. Berri
en, Calhoun, Thos. Clayton, J. M. Clayton, Cor
win, Crittenden, Davis, Dayton, Evans’, Hunting
ton, McDuffie, Mangham, Morehead, Simmons,
Upham, Woodbridge—lß.
Nays— Messrs. Allen, Ashley, Atchison, Ather
ton, Bagby, Benton, Breese, Bright, Cameron,
Cass, Colquitt, Dix, Houston, Jernigan, Jenness,
Johnson, et Maryland, Johtison , of Louisiana,
Lewis, Niles, Penneybacker, Rusk, Semple, Se
vier, Speight, Sturgeon, Turney, fFescott, Yulee,
28.
Nothing daunted by this defeat, they re
turned to the charge and were repulsed; a
gain they rallied and again they were driv
en back; they tried to eftcct by stratagem
what they failed to accomplish by direct at
tack; but in this too they were unsuccessful.
Then came the decisive vote—decisive in all pro
bability of their own future political fate, though
the power did not rest with them to affect that of
the bill—and then was seen the faltering—then
“ Shrunk the timid, and stood still the brave.”
TbemAheir former courage Oozed out—then—
wheirciie question was put—“ shall this bill
pass —two—only two were found having firm
ness enough to say “ no!” and the embodiment
of South Carolinian chivalry said— nothing at all.
Gen. Taylor’s Camp occupies a space four miles in length, on the left side of the Rio Grande,
the centre, directly opposite the City of Matamoras. The lines, as far as finished, had occupied
2,300 men during the space of thirty days. The embankment is of sandy soil and is faced with a
wide and deep ditch. The Magazine is situated in the rear of the Camp, and is walled in by
barrels filled with sand seven tiers thick, and four high, with a roof covered with timber and
filled up with earth. Twelve pieces of cannon, of large calibre, are placed about the centre of the
American Camp, opposite the City of Matamoras, and it is estimated that five hundred determin
ed men could defend the Camp against the present Mexican forces.
Topographical description of the Camp. A. The Fort, is elevated in the centre of the Camp,
with its batteries facing the City of Matamoras, and of a sufficient size to contain tire whole of
Gen: Taylor’s Army, and is occupied by Maj. Ringgold of the Artillery. B. The head quarters
of the American General, where are encamped Col. Twiggs, secoral in command, and comman
ding the second Regiment of Dragoons—Lieut Col. j. Garland, Commanding the 4th IJcgt. In
fantry—Lieut. Col. J. S. Mclntosh, commanding the sth Kegt. Infantry, and Brev. Lt. Col.
Childs Commanding the battallidn of Artillery. C- Fortifications. D. Encampment. E. —
Encamptmcnt. F. Brazos. G. U. S. Schr. Flirt. 11, U. S. Brig Lawrence. 1. Rio Grande.—
J. Direct road to Point Isabel, 20 miles long. K. A crooked road, from Matamoras to Point
Isabel, measuring about thirty miles. L. The tents of the Army. M. Cavalry. N. The Is
land del Padre. 0. The Lagoon of Martha. Figures 2,2, 2,6,” 6,8, is the depth of water al
ong the Bay.
On the right side of the Rio Grande, abed, the Mexican batteries.—The City- of MataiUdras
opppsite letter b.
DESCRIPTION OF CORPUS CHRISTI BAY.
A. Four Bluffs. B. Corpus Christi Bay. C. Rancho de Kenny. D. Old route to
Matamoras. E. Rio Neuces. T. The Island of Mofctan. G. McGovernor’s Blufl. H. St.
Joseph’s Village.
The place at which Capt. Thornton was captured is above the American Camp and is not
marked on the Map.
Maj. Monroe, of the 4th Regt. Artillerry, commands at Point Isabel. He has with him Maj.
Thomas, Qr. il/aster General, Maj. S. McKee Assistant Qr. Master, and about 300 men. By* the
death of Col. Cross, Maj. Thomas is the oldest Qr. Master of the Army of Occupation, but it is
supposed Col. Hunt of'New Orleans, will succeed Col. Cross.
War news,
From the Tropic—Extra;
New Orleaxs, Soxdat, }
May 17, 1846, 6 o’clock, A. M. 5
Correspondence of the “ Tropic.”
HIGHLY INTERESTING LETTER!
MEXICAN GENERAL KILLED ! ! !
Capt. McCall's advance — Capt. May's charge
on the enemies’ batteries — Route—Baggage
and artillei'y taken—Capt. Tkbrnton, Hardy
and companions safe—Exchanged as priso
ners of War! ! Lika tenant Dens, not exchang
ed sor — Capt. Walker—Attack on Matamo
ros—Mexican prisoners, <fa. / ! /
Brazos Saxtiago, May 13.
At the receipt of tho news of the first battle I
wrote you a short account, the result of the se
cond is now on hand, and it is most decisive. It
now appears that the Mexicans had only five
thousand men in the field at the first battle, and
four thousand stowed away in the chapperel near
the battle ground. It was their intention to have
made but a slight attack the firsit day, but being
so closely pressed they were obliged to fight in
order to make good their retreat to where the
four thousand were in the chapperel. In the
first fight a general officer had his head shot otF,
it is not yet ascertained who he was, his body
was recognised by his dress as he lay upon the
field.
General Taylor advanced the morning of the
first battle irtto tlie chapperel, then sent 100 pick-.
cd men under the charge of Capt. McCall to
rencontre, he advanced unmolested until near 3
P. M., (the army following at u distance,) when
Capt. McCall sent word to Gen. Taylor that he
had received a charge of grape from tho enemy
and lost two men.
The army was then deployed, and Capt.
May, 2d dragoons ordered to charge the battery
that had thrown the grape, and to take it if he
lost every mail, he obeyed orders, took the batte
ry of four guns and lost but one man. The
battery was commanded by General De la Vega,
who was taken prisoner.
Our little band of an army then rent the air
with their huzzas, arid rushing, shouting and
shouting upon the enemy, committing the most
dreadful havoc among them, taking eight pieces
of artillery, 155,000 rounds of cartridge, and 500
packed mules. Gen Arista’s canip bedstead con
tained all his private and public baggage papers,
which letters will be of great value, as we now
have the key to the whole campaign, which will
enable Gen. T. to form his plans so as to en
tirely defeat their designs.
We took all and every thing they had, four
hundred prisoners, and the army baggage. The
enemy had between 8 and 9,000 troops in the
two battles, but wc with 1800 troops completely
routed them.
We exchanged prisoners, got Capt. Thornton,
Hardy and his little band. Our officers while
prisoners, were well treated, having lived with
Gen. Ampudia ever since they were taken.—
General Taylor would not exchange for Lieut.
Deas as a prisoner of war, as it would be sane*
tioning his crossing the river, which he did not,
having reprobated his erdssing in the severest
manner.
In this second and glorious battle we lost about
the same number of men as in the first, but had
more officers wounded. Captain Walker with
his heroic band of Rangers, was the last that
fired at the Mexicans, the army left him and his
comrades on the bank of the river shooting them
as they attempted to cross.
To-morrow General Taylor ieaves here to
make an attack on Matamoros, in connection
with Commodore Conner, who has sent a boat
expedition up the river.
I forgot to mention that General Taylor ar
rived here yesterday with all our wounded, be
tween 50 or 60, with Gen. Romulus Dela Vega,
one Mexican Captain, and two Lieutenants, who
go with this letter in the Col. Harney.
The Avgusta from New Orleans, arrived last
evening, ’l’he mules from Matamoros, some
500. were sent in to-day, as well as the Mexican
wounded.
I should not forget to mention that all the
shell, ball and grape shot of the Mexicans are
made of brass or copper. This letter I must
close, with details of glory enough for one day.
] Correspondence of the Tropic.]
Announcement of the Volunteers—Unexpect
ed arrival of Com. Conner at Brazos Santiago
— Gen. Taylor starts J'oc Matamoros — Com.
Connor reinforces Point Isabel-Exciting
News from the battle-field—Retreat—Cap
ture of Artillery—Mexican officer killed by
his own vlen — Capt. Page wounded—Lou
isiana Volunteers—Uncle Sam’s Sailers bn
shore.
Brazos SxifT'iAGft, May 10.
Since my last (not received) we have had two
arrivals, the New York and brig Millaudon.—
The last brought the news that six steamboats
with four thousand volunteers were about start
ing when she left. This news made us most
cheerful, as we could not have then expected the
result that has since taken place with our troops.
Despatches had been sent to Yera Cruz bv
Gen. TANARUS: contents to'•u- the unknown, but rumor
would have it that u.jrcsaid Vera Cruz Was to
have been bombarded. Judge of our surprise
then when at daylight on the, morning of the#
Bth, the whole squadron (Falmouth except
ed) appeared off our harbor; The Commodore
had not received the despatches from her, but
was informed at Vera Cruz, that the Mexicans
had marched 6 or 7,000 troops across by land to
assist Cen. Arista in whipping Gen. Taylor-.
Com. C. therefore, thought very wisely that
his presence here would do some good in the way
of re-inforcements. Gladly was he welcomed,
as Gen. Taylor had marched out the evening,
previous to meet and conquer the enemy, taking
with him twenty two hundred men, teamsters
included, with two hundred and fifty teams load
ed with ammunitions, provisions, &e., which the
Mexican were nc doubt apprised of, as the teams
had been loaded ever since Monday last awaiting
the orders for a march at a moment’s warning.
Gen. TANARUS left Point Isabel with little over four
hundred nien to defend it. Major Monroe, com
manding here, sent a requisition to Com. Con-,
nerfor as many men as he could spare, as we
heard firing about 2 P. M. of flie-sth, which con
tinued with but little interfhission until dark.
Com. C. sent ashore 250 men, and on theOtli 4
or 500 more, Which niakes this place strong
enough to withstand an attack against 120,000
men.
Believe me when I say there was the greatest
excitement here all the afternoon of the Bth, as
we could plainly hear the cannonading from the
field ofbattlc.
On the evening the Bth, Mr. Murray and Mr.
Bacon volunteered to go and find out the result.
On the morning of the* 9th, a black boy came
into camp, gave a history of the tight, which was
about time, but as he had run away and left his
team he was not believed.
At 3 p. m. of 9th, Messrs M. & B. returned,
and stated as follows:
They got to Gen. Taylor’s present camp, 16
miles from here, at 3A. M., there learned that
the army marched until about 13 miles from
here, wheii they saw the Mexicans drawn up in
battle array across his read, he iiiirticdiately gave
his orders for the teams tri halt Until the 2d
Brigade had passed. The Mexicans were on
the prairie near the edge of the Chapparal, when
Gen. Taylor got within about three quarters of
a mile, they Opened upon him with their Flying
Artillery, Gen. Taylor arrived with Capt. Dun
can and Major Ringgold’s Companies at it
they went until about sunset, when the Mexicans
had retreated to the edge of the Chapparal, and
ceased fifing.
After which, Gen. Taylor fired tenor fifteen
guns at them, and set to work throwing up two
breastworks. At daylight, the Mexicans were
in the edge of the Chapparal. A Council of war
was held by Gen. Taylor, and it was agreed that
the Brigade should advance up to the Chapparal
in hopes to draw the Mexicans into a renewal of
the fight, hut the more the troops advanced upon
thtrii, the move theij wariit there- —the Mexicans
having retreated leaving three pieces of artillery,
any quantity of ammunition—from FOUR.to
SIX HUNDRED DEAD upon the field, and
God only knows how many wounded that they
took away. We took thirty or forty prisoners
mostly wounded. One Mexican who was sta
tioned at one of their batteries, says every body
but himself at the battery was killed—says the
guns beat any thing t!icy ever dreamed of, they
were so quick. One of the Mexican officers in
trying to rally bis men, found he could not and
commenced to cut them with his sword, when his
troops shot him dead. Wc had eleven killed and
about 10 mortally wounded.
Capt. Page of the 3rd, had all the lower part
oi his face shot off with a cannon ball—it is
thought lie will recover, though horribly mutilat
ed. Maj. Ringgold had the fleshy part of both
his legs shot through, and horse killed—none of
his hones broken, which is Wonderful. Lieut.
Sutter slightly wounded.- Our informant says
the field ofbattlc was strewed* with the dead, and
they could hear the groans of the Mexican
wounded all night at Gen, T’s camp. The
Mexicans were commanded by Gen. Mejia.—
There is no doubt they have retreated across the
river. When the volunteers arrive you may de
pend you will hear of them “ revelling in the halls
of the Montezuma* or peace and good will,
will be whipped into those bombastic Mexicans.
It is a matter of surprise that so few were lost on
our side.
The monotony of this place has been relieved
the last two days by the drilling of “ Uncle Sam
uets “ ivcb-fcct” or bdrncuJe-backs ” that came
here from the Squadron. You would be surprised
to see with what dexterity and precision {hey go
through their evolutions with muskets, and nd
one could resist a laugh to hear some oftheirsay
ings. One old salt said this morning, “Damn
and blast niy eyes! here is a ship ashore, and poor
jack on his beam ends.” This speech was ad
dressed to himself when looking on the tent that
had been pitched, and was df sufficient
to hold about filly-two.
One third of the whole number of the men
from the squadron are Marines, the balance Tars,
f snouled pictured myself a soldier, riding a
horse back or a cow as soon as that I should see
tour or five hundred sailors going into war with
muskets on their shoulders, bht you could _not
restrain them from going against the Mexicans
with only a kniie and fork, if you would only
show them a chance, for they afe all “euge/ for
ih.‘ fray.” Yours, Ac.
- In the decisive battle Gen. Taylor lost about
60 killed dnd bounded, among whom there were
three officers, viz : Lieut. Inges, of the Drag
?oons; Lieut. Cdchran, of tne4th infantry, and
iieut. ChadbUrn. of the Bth infantry. Among
the wounded are Macintosh, of the sth in
fantry ; Lieut. Col. Payne, 4th artillery, and
Capt. Hooe, sth infantry—most of them slightly,
and none supposed * mortally.
Major Brown, ofthe Artillery, who was left
in command of the fort opposite Matamoros, died
on the 10th of wounds received in gallantly de
fending his post, and was bnried with Military
honors on the 11th.
Major Ringgold, tfell kndWn ds the comman
der of the Flying Artilery, also died on the 11th,
from wounds received in the action of the Bth.
Capt. Page, who was wounded in the same
engagement, we are happy to state, is rapidly re
covering. Lieut. Luther) disc slighted wounded,
is convalescent.
From the N. O. Picayune.
FURTHER FROM THE BATTUE. ‘
Since the above was in type we have received
the followiitg important letter, written on the
field of battle by an officer high in command. It
will he seen from it that the Mexicans disputed
the field desperately. But for the very gallant
charge made by the Dragoons and 4th Infantry,
by which the Mexican guns were carried, -the
result would have been disastrous.
All our officers were surprised by the, firm
stand ofthe Mexicans. They exhibited the ut
most bravery, but could not withstand the head
long valor of our troops.
Gen. Le Vega and the four officers with him
have been set at large upon their parole, and re
main in this city.
Later from the Field of Jtitttic.
Camp ox the Fieltv of Battle, 7
Three miles from Matamoros, May 9, 1846.5
Gentlemen —l have to inform you that on our
march from Pointjsabel vrS encountered at Palo
Alto, on the Bth inst. the Mexican forces, consis
ting of three thousand regular troops and two
thousand irregular cavalry, with nine pitces pi
Artiileiy. The American force, including offi
cers, was about tvventy three-hundred
After an action, which lasted five hoy/s, in
which the artillery was principally engaged, and
during which time the fifth regiment .gallantly
repulsed, a charge of lancers, the ejfcmy was
driven froni his pdsition. We occilijfcd the field
ofbattlq that riight. Our loss wjfc four men
killed, three officers and thirty-nyt'c men badly
bounded.
The loss to the eneuiy a hundred
men killed—the riumber.bf jimflndecl not known.
Major Ringgold, 3d Ajinery, and Capt. Page,
4th Irifantry, severely wounded —Lifiuf. Luther,
of 2nd Artillery, slightf^wounded.
This morning thein-my commenced its march
towards Matemorosj The enemy fell back to
a position of greapstrength, where a ravine cross
ed the toad, ife.e they planted seven pieces of
artillery and ofadc every preparation for a deter
mined stai^f
The bidaffo opened with a heavy and continued
fire ofjtflnllcry and musketry, which lasted till
ordered the enemy’s battery to be
sttgmcd.—This order was splendidly executed
Capt. May’s dragoons and the fifth infantry:
This movement gave us the victor} 7 , which is
cdniplcte. We HaVe capttlred seven pieces of ar
tillery. three standards, a large amount of andYiu
nation, the bagage and packed mules of thorcnc
rny, together with one hundred prisoners., inclu
ding several officers of high rank, among whom
is Gen. Le Vega. This officer way taken by
Capt; May; fighting gallantly at the.mead of his
forces; 1
The efieniy being routed retted. Many of
them were drowned in crosSineAiic river flying
from our men; The loss on our side has been
severe; three officers killedthe field of battle
and tWelve wounded, some'of whom have since
died. The killed and of the rank and
file not yet known; J
The officers killejpmh the ficid were LicUt In
ges of 2nd dragoons, Lieut. Cochcran of the 4th
infantry, and Ljfut Cladboume bf the Bth in
fantry. Wouwled, Lieut; Cob M’lntosh, (since
dead,) Col. Prtyrie; Cdpt; Moritgbmcry,
Capt. Lieut. Gates. LicUt. Maclgjq Lieut.
Bourbunk and Lieut; ddrclkn of
the Bthinfantry. and Lieut. Fowler of the fifth.
Tiuenecry’s loss*is exceedingly severe.
jftpEng the two battles of the Bth dnd 9th,
Gant T;ty Igr headed his troops in the most cool
and gallant manner. His escape from hurt
seems almost a miracle. He has won the hearts
of his soldiers by his willingness to share with
them the most imminent perils. His motto is
“I wish no man to where lam not willing to
lead.” He has been dubbed “Old Rough and
Ready.” Yours. &c.
In addition to the fextras from New Orleans
by mail we are indebted to a passenger for the
following from an Extra of the Delta, dated
Sunday noon, May 17:
The Galveston left on the eVbrting ofthe 13th,
one day later than the Hoitryi
Gen. Taylor, it will be fbirierilbefed, had re
turned to Point Isabel after the battle oh the 1 lfh,
having started his train of wounded apd prison
ers in advance. The latter got in on the 12th.
The following is from the Galveston Caviliah,
extra; \
On the morning of the 13th, Gen. Taylor and
staff” with the guard that had brought down the
train, &c., started for his camp. He was met
by an exprSss a few miles from Point Isabel, in
forming him that 8,000 fresh troops had arrived
in Matamoras, 2,000 of which had crossed over,
and 1,100 more had crossed the Rio Grande at
Baritn, near the Boca Chica, not more than 8
miles from Point Isabel;
Gen Taylor returned to PoW®sabcl at once,
and made preparations to leav<y#ne next day with
such forces as were arriving; The steamship
Galveston landed 450 itiflintry, regulars and
volunteers. The August landed about 250.
Capt. Price arrived
pus Christi with his company of 70 mounted
t angers. They all reached the Point on the
13th.
The Tclggfaph and James L. Day will
their troops, amounting to up
wards of 800 at Point Isabel on the 14th.—
Great credit is due to Capt. Jeremiah Smith, T>f
the steamship Cincinnati, and Capt. R. M.
Baker, of the Monmouth, for the skill, energy
and promptness shotvn in the manegenient of
their boats in transporting troops and supplies
across the bar at the Brazos St. lago.
It is also reported that Parades himself is
marching on Matamoras at the head of 15,000
men, and that the last reinforcements are detach
ments front his army.-
Os the Fort opposite Matamoros, the Civilian
says:—
The strength of the Fort, and skill with which
it is defended is incomprehensible to the Mexi
cans, and indeed vtrell it might be, for they have
thrown upwards of 1400 shot and shell into the
works, and every morning they present the same
appearance ; our loss has only been two or three
in the Fort. The constant practice the enemy
have had in firing at it, has taught them the
proper bearing to give the guns, and almost every
shot falls within the works. The fort is never
idle, and the ramparts and dwellings of Matamo
ros exhibit ruins.
Lieut. Col. Mclntosh, reported above to be
wounded, we regret to say, is since dead.
General Vega, who is prisoner bf war at this
place, is the same who was takcn.at the slaughter
dl San Jacinto. He is a brave, honorable man.
TEXAS!
Gov: Henderson is himself about to take com
mand of tbc Texas forces to rendezvous at Corpus
Christi.
The following is frOm the Civilian : ’
Two companies of volunteers arrived her?; frofn
Houston; for the army under General Taylor—the
first, under Capt M. K. Lnell, on Tuesday flight;
the other, under Capt. Ostrander, on fFednesday
night. They are a rugged looking body of men,
and have mostly seen service, arid she'd blood—
their own or their enemies—under the banner of
Texas, in days gone by.
The three companies called for from this coun
ty arid Harrisj are about ffeady to leave for the
seat of War.
From the Aristin Democrat of the 6th inst., we
learn that Governor'Henderson, under instruc
tions from General Taylor, has made a requisi
tion upon the militia of the State for seven com
panies of mounted men, in addition to the forces
before called into the field to operate against
Mexico.
These troops, constituting a regiment, are to
be stationed as follows : Five companies in the
vicinity of San Antonio, one at the city of Austin
one at, or near New Braunfels.
The last Austin Democrat states that news has
reached Austin, from good authority, that tho
Comanches refused to treat with* or meet the
United States Commissioners, and the inference
is that these Indians have been tdiripered with by
Mexican emissaries. J
The Governor, at the request of the Legisla
ture, was to appoint Commissioners to ascertain
the situation and disposition of the Indians :
while further steps were tube takeu to protect
the frontier settlements from their depredations
should they be disposed to afets of hostility. ’
From the Mobile Hearld & Tribune.
THE ARMY.
The Picayune publishes an interesting letter
giving a more minute account of the last brittle
fdtlglli. We make an extract'of it.
FonT P oik, Point Isabel,7
May 13th, 1846. 5
Gentlemen* —l arrived here last evening
with the return train, bringing the wounded,
captured and booty.
There was an exchange of prisoners with the
Mexicans— and men—on tho 11th.
Wc have yet as many left as wc sent back to
them. Some of our naval surgeons are here
kindly assisting in attending our wounded, All
the surgeons are kept busy at this time. One
hundred will nearly cover ohr wounded in both
both battles—lsoo not that of the enemy: with
the missing, some say 2000. Whenever one of
our officers or men fell into their hands thev
would commence butchering and stripping him
at once—mutilating dead and wounded bodies.
There appeared to be women with their drmy,
whose business in part was to strip the dead.—
There is no mistake, these fellows fought well.—
We astonished them, however, according to
their own confessions, by the inifny marked in
stances of daring valor displayed oy several offi
cers and many men, dnd the fighting of the tvholo
of our arniy.
At the second fight not over 1500 of us were
engaged at once. At the first fight they had
6000, we about 2000. At the sec dnd they had
a reinforcement of 1000 or more, and We, ds I
said above, had only 1500.
They have Ib'st their all—everything was cap
tured all their mules, about 500 or iriore, and
packsddfllcs, a very large quantity of ammuni
tion, their camp equipage, artillery, 1000 stands
of arms, [muskets,] together with lances, drums,
accoutrements, clothing, sltpplifes, cellars, & c. See;
As avc rushed riftcr them in pursuit, all this was
cncbiinigittgi
Their dinners were on the fire rookiflg and
answered for our supper. We eat their breJd,
sup, tomatoes, moal, &c.; smoked their cigars,
[a good many fine ones being captured;] and
drank their liquors. Their ready-slaughtered
beef did riot ccie amiss, nor that on the hoof.
(Jur battaliiou followed at a run in pursuit six
miles to the ferry 7, where they crossed it. The
last few miles their retreat was perfect confusion
—“ every one for himself dnd the devil for them
all.”
Most of their shot, cannon balls, grape and
canister, was cooper, brass and some composition
—wiiicli is against, if riot the laws of nations,
their usage, &c.
In the first action flic General’s Adjutant’s
horse Was twice struck by cannon balls, the se
cond time being killed.
The General behaved most gallantly. In the
second battle lie ivds more exposed than any one.
else, and there fib tivit part of the time giving hist
orders vPith his leg “cocked over the pummel of
the saddle, unheeding tftfc solicitation bf his staff
to retire;
Siich a victorv, shell slaughter, and such a
route I hardly think can find its parallel.
The fort opposite Matamoras has been named
Fort Brown, in honor of Major Brown who fell
in defending it. The fortifications at Point Is-’
abel arc named Fort Polk, in honor of the Presi
dent.
The Picayune says; “No officers wore taken pri
soners, and those killed wt>re hideously mutilated.
All the letters wc have read state the fact that
the persons of the dying and tiie dead wero not
respected.”
Prolii the Mobile Tribune.
i3fCII>E]VTS OF THE AVAR.
The New Orleans papers received yesterday
bring lis fuller particulars of the glorious bat
tles fought on the Bth and 9th inst.
The official despatch of Gen. Taylor to Gen;
Gaines states that the los2 in the first battle v. a*
12 killed diiil 39 wounded; The number killed
in the second battle wris not known. Supposed
however, to he over riwhtmdred. The despatch
also states that Gen. Taylor’s force was 2,30(1
men—that of the enemy 3,800 regulars and a
bout 2000 irregular artillery.
The following unccdcJtc is told of the battle of
the 9th.
“Thfe’ battle Cbirimenced by heavy cannbnadiiig
on both sides. Gen. Taylor; in passing his lines;
accosted Capt. May of the 2d dragoons, and told
him—‘your regiment has never done anything yet
—you must take that battery.’ lie said nothing
but turned to the company and said—‘we must
take that battery—-follow!’ He made a charge
with three companies—at least with the remain
der of three companies—supported by the sth
and Bth regiments of infantry. They cleared the
breastwork; rode ovtr the battery, wheeled and
crifiie tlifough the enemy’s line, whilst the fire of
the infantry was so deadly in its effects as to car
ry all before it. Capt Mays made a cut at. an
officer as he charged through—on his return he
found him standing between the wheels of a can
non—fighting like a hero. He ordered him to
surrender. He was asked if he was an officer t
Capt. Mays answered in the affirmative, when lie
presented his Sword remarking—‘You receive
Gen. Vega a prisoner of war?’
In this charge Capt. Gage, a brave arid gallant
officer fell. Acoriiplete panic ensued on the part
of the enemy, and they fled in evfery direction,
many being drowned in attempting to cross the
river.
“Eight pieces es artillery fell into our hands,
and inumcrable quantity of small arms, muni
tions, baggage, camp equipage, military chest
containing a large quantity of gold, (jdh. Arista’s
carriage, baggage, port folio with all his official
correspondence with the Government, authoriz
ing him to send Gen. Taylor and his army when
taken prisoners to the city of Mexico ; to treat
Gen. Taylor and his officers with such care and
attention as becomes the magnanimity ofthe great
Mexican nation; Four or five hundred head of
mules, &c.; with a large number of stands of co
lors.
The plan of the campaign and the instructions
from his Government ordered him to take posses
sion of Point Isabel, this was to be the brief act
of hostility, he was to fortify it as strongly as
possible. He was likewise ordered to take pos
session of the mouth of the river, and fortify it at
once.”
Some 400 Mexicans w<£e buried at the last
accounts.
Capt. May’s attack is spoken of as being one
of those splendid efforts which would have adorn
ed the brightest feather oftitfe plume of Murat, in
the palmiest days of his glory. It cost him 18
horses with a few of the gallant riders. The
victory (says the extra of the Galveston News)
entirely belongs to the United states Army. No
volunteers having arrived in time to share the
honors of the day. It will convince our country,
that West Point affords the material of exhibiting
the courage and bravery of American soldiers.
I trust (says a letter writer) wc will hear no
more of dismounting our gallant dragoons; the
affair of the 9th shows them to be the arteries ot
our defence:
That redoubtable hero, Gen. Ampudia, com
manded the 2d Division of the Mexican army.
It is said he was the first man to make good his
escape to Matarapras, whore he reported that
Arista had betrayed the Atony.
Gen. Arista conunanped the Mcxictfn army,
and was present atpybattle.
Seventeen hundreflwlexican troops, who l>-*d
crossed the Rio Bareta, below Mata
moras, upon defeat of their main
army by Gen. ’Raylor, precipitately rccrosscd the.
river. .
The battle of the 9th was principally confined
to Artillery on both sides. The Mexicans aim
ing too high, which prevent*! much loss on our
side. Out ISlving Artilkft was very destruc
tive to the hopes of ihjjenemy, the rapidity and
despatch with brought to bear on
different points Bf trfneneiny’s line created great
havoc. - Major jflfegohl received a shot through
both thighs, horse under him. Capt.
Page had shot off.
The carujghading\ontinued from about .‘5. P-
M., until yptidown, u\l could be heard distinctly
*t- Pcinrlsabcl. The Mexicans rctrcatcTWih