CHAPTER III.
CALIFORNIA AND NEW MEXICO.
Fremont's Expedition — Jealousy of the Mexican Authorities — Affair at Sonoma — Declaration of Independence — The Pacific Squadron — Capture of all the prominent points in the Californias — March of the Army of the West from Fort Leavenworth to Santa Fe — Conquest of New Mexico — Departure of General Kearny for California — Counter Revolution — Battle of San Pascual — Passage of the San Gabriel — Ciudad de los Angelos — Arrival of Troops, and complete occupation of the Country.
The conquest of New Mexico and the Californias, though bloodless in comparison with the military operations conducted in other quarters of the Mexican republic, and presenting but few incidents likely to be commemorated "in story and in song," is of too much consequence, both with reference to the geographical extent of the territory overrun, and the commercial advantages which it has been supposed would be secured by its acquisition, to be entirely lost sight of amid the more brilliant achievements of the war. There were no powerful armies in the field—there were few victories won—few trophies gained; but our officers, both of the army and the navy, discharged the duties they were required to perform, faithfully and well, and therefore deserve to be commended. But little resistance was offered to their movements, yet whenever encountered, it was promptly met, and as promptly put down. In addition to the other important points on
