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preached too close to one of the batteries against his will, his horse having ran away; when within pistol shot he was wounded in the foot, and fell crying out that he surrendered; but this did not avail him, he was murdered without being able to oppose resistance.[1] If we compare the deeds of our soldiers with their boasting and fanfaronade, as they are daily published, even in the government journal, one is ashamed, and the few Mexicans who are abroad will hide their faces.
Well, then, we now have the valiant General-in-Chief, President of the Republic, &c. &c. &c., again in the palace, and a great many troops in their quarters. We will see what he intends to do with the remainder of the army, without moral, without honor or valor, but yet with a great many ignorant generals, officers and leaders, corrupt and coward on the field of battle, but great talkers and boasters, only fit to dress for show in their gaudy uniforms.
Mexico, Aug. 21, 1847.
My Never-Forgotten and Beloved Catita:—Yesterday there was a great fight with the Yankees, which cost a heavy loss to those accursed enemies; nevertheless the division of Valencia was routed. To-day who knows what will happen! In order that you may not be alarmed, T take advantage of these moments to write by to-day's mail, that you may not miss a letter and grieve over it. The Great Being must hate us.
One of my feet has been hurt, and for that reason I have remained in my quarters, but you need not fear, as it is not of importance, my ankle being only strained as my horse fell with me.
In consequence of the blow which the greater part of Valencia's division has suffered, it is thought that trouble is coming, but I think the Mexicans are still in good resolution. Although the Yankees will enter Mexico, it does not follow that they will be the conquerors of the Mexican nation. Through the misfortune we will be obliged to abandon the capital, and these bad men will remain masters of the territory they tread, and the whole nation will rise in a mass and destroy them. Catita, God permits things to go to a certain point in order to undeceive us, but he afterwards sends consolation to the afflicted. This Eternal and Incomprehensible Being will protect us and send us comfort. I only beg you will not afflict yourself, and pray Him to favor me and preserve me. Salute all my relatives and friends, and you and my children receive the love I always have for you.C.
- ↑ This was Major Mills, 15th Regiment of Infantry.
