Thursday, February 17, 1848.—This morning it is rumored that Gen. Cadwallader is surrounded, at Toluco, by Gen. Alvezes, with eight thousand troops. But I think this is all moonshine. I don't believe that there are eight thousand Mexican troops in all Mexico.
At noon the Massachusetts soldier, who was sentenced yesterday, was drummed out of the United States service for desertion. He was taken from the guard-house and placed in front of the drummer and fifer, and a file of soldiers on each side. After which, they started off playing the Rogue's March until they came to the outer picket-guards, when they halted with the music; and left him go to wander wherever he wished to go.
Friday, February 18, 1848.'—This morning it is rumored that the President of the United States has disapproved the charges brought against Gens. Worth, Pillow and Col. Duncan, by Gen. Scott; and has restored them to their respective positions, and that Gen. Scott is to go before the Court of Inquiry, at Puebla, to answer the charge for daring to enforce discipline in his army against certain of his subordinate officers. This is what some might call an impartial trial, discharging the subordinate party without trial, and trying the Commander. This has again caused a great deal of excitement among the soldiers.
At noon Joseph L. Parker, Orderly Sergeant, of Co. G, First Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, came to our quarters. He is direct from Philadelphia, having had leave on a furlough. He went from Jalapa City. Sergt. Parker gives us glorious news from old Pennsylvania; and, particular, from Philadelphia. He came in company with ten others from Vera Cruz.
Saturday, February 19, 1848.—This morning we have the official report of Gen. Scott relieved from command of the army, and devolving the whole command to Major-General William O. Butler, a volunteer general; also the releasing of Generals Worth and Cerro Gordo Pillow, and Col. Duncan
