Rodgers, one non-commissioned officer, and thirteen men. 21
The remainder of the regiment with Colonel Waters was
not detained to await Magone s arrival, but hurried across
the mountains or down the river to their homes, many
without waiting to be discharged at the appointed rendez
vous on the Clackamas river.
Colonel Waters, being in bad health, was unable to accompany the regiment across the mountains, and took the river route to Oregon City, which owing to adverse winds proved a tedious one, so that he was unable to meet the companies on the Clackamas. Lee had withdrawn from any connection with the army when the campaign closed at Fort Waters; and although he crossed the moun tains with the regiment, Captain Hall was in command. On arriving at the rendezvous Hall was compelled to grant furloughs subject to the order of the governor. "This step, * wrote Waters, "was perhaps objectionable, but I am disposed to believe the best that could have been taken under the circumstances." Palmer informed the governor, who was absent from Oregon City, that the men were "perfectly reckless" and "regardless of conse quences," on getting so near home. Always ready to perform their duty in the field, they cared little for the conventionalities of army life, and longing for a sight of beloved faces, risked their meager and doubtful pay to gratify this home hunger.
On reaching Oregon City, Lee, who must always be regarded as one of the most conspicuous figures in the history of the war, declined his commission, and with it of course the pay, in the following letter:
OREGON CITY, June 24, 1848. To Governor Abernethy :
DEAR SIR : Having fulfilled my promise to Colonel Waters, and the officers and men of the regiment, in accompanying them through
21 The report of Lieutenant Rodgers, August fourteenth, gives the strengch and condition of the force at Fort Lee as one lieutenant, one orderly sergeant, thirteen privates, seven horses, ten saddles, six bridles, eight rifles, four muskets, three shot guns, fifteen shot pouches, and powder horns. No fifes, drums, or colors.
