The New York Herald Newspaper, November 16, 1847, Page 2

tone thrown from # wall by # cannon oo Liwut Reins, my aid-de-camp, was stumae! by ts of Capt Pa rasy, of tat d omega. Semeaine sor f bis own aud Cai icReynolde’ oe aon "sake with wy division during the action, a y with great difoulty across the wide and y fields and on oe ao See laf uadron unt ° ju pont the action of his fine squa Reet te ite. oe pew carried, | had held him in pe was his charge upon the retreating foo, doatiag daath with the unvrring sabre, untill he reached ths vary suburbs of the city. aad drew from the énemy’s batteries at the garita o heavy and destructive fire, by whioh tho gallant captaia lost his leftarm Lieut. J. L. Graham, of 10th iafantry, serving with Captain Kearney, was wounded ia the left arm; and Capt McReynolds, 34 dragoons, who nobly sustained the daring movements of his squadron commander. was also wounded in the jeft oem Both of these fine companies sustained sev losses io their rank and file also By detachments to seoure prisoners taken in the first engagements at Contreras-and captured public property, my foros was reduced toabout 1,800 mea — My total loas in killed, wounded. and mening is 211 officers aud pri- yates The loss of the enemy in this last action | have no means of ascertalaing Th» whol» deld and road for milas was coversd with the dead and dying In these engagements, constituting one contioued betrle theeie- | my himself watimates his joss fa killed, wounded and Tals iscladss prisoners Ken ag. at a>ous 7.000 be our forces Among the many gallant offlo-rs whose loss we have to deglors, ts thy brave Major Mills, of the 15th tofantry. who, «fter having participated most actively fa the flerce struggle in which that regiment had ite colonsl wounded fand one-third of its fores cut down, joiued Capt Kear- h-y’aequadron in pursuit of the enemy, and was killed by the fire of the en-my’s artillery at the very garits of * cit, bay is a list of the killed and wounded of my division T have the honor to he, ent servant, very eas yore obedi- GID J. PILLOW, Maj. Gen. United States Army. To Capt. H.L. Scorr, Act. Asst. Adj Gen, Heapgvantens Finst Diviston, Tacubdasya, August 23, 1847 Sin; In obedience to the instructions of the General- in-obief [ have the honor to report that the first division took position on the 18th instant on the causeway lead- ing to San Antonio, distant fifteen huodred yarde from its well fortified front. which, by means of heavy guns. commanded (be approach through the whole length and at Various angles of the direct route A 4 discovered the impracticapility of ussault in front wi hout battering in breach. and the secondary means of sealing ladders, fuscines, &e Reconnoirsance was immediately commenced, and continued on the 19th, to determine a route for tarning the whole system of de- fence by the enemy’s right. This accomplished, with éatisfactory results, xeting uaderthe general iostructions and discretion granted by the general-in-chief, a move- ment, delayed by the necessary tem: withdrawal of one brigade to sus’ain the division occupied in the direc- tion of Contreras, was commenced at 11 o’clook, A. M, as follows: The 2d brigade, composed of the Sth, 6th, and 8th infantry, commanded by Colonel Clarke; 6th. supported by the light battalion, composed of two eom- panies from the 2d artillery. and one.from each of the 5th and 8th regiments of infsntry, uader Brevet Lieut Col, Smith—the whole under the guidance of Captain Mason, corps of engineers, assisted by Lieut. Hardcastle, topographical eoginvers —-moved to the left and divergent from the causeway, taking such & direction as to s'rike the high road from San Antonio, with the double object of enveloping the right of the euemy’s position, and at the same time of cutting off bis retreat towards the capi- tal Lieut Col. Duncan's artillery (light battery) and the Ist brigade, composed of the 24 and 3: artillery and 4th infantry, commanded by Brevet Col. Garland. was advanced (o an angle in the causeway which partially masked it from the enemy's direct fire, and hel | sons this report, hastily and inconventent!; pared. Comes the pleasing and - difficult vingt pally ae wotics of the general i it, pomartie Uhg mney e te on com mant @ tlater. from chief of brivade. through the humbiest, have bravely and nobly done their duty ; and the delicacy is felt in fall foree of distinguishing. even by a separation of one from the other; and yet those in whose path fortune threw her special favors are entitled to the benefit. ‘As least exceptionable, corps will be referred to in order of formation, and persogs in connexion with their corps. Tat, Brevet Lieut Col. Dancan commanded and di- reoted the lizht er with the zeal end gallantry. judgment end effect, which have so often ja and presented him to the notice of his General-in-chief aud the government. id Brevet Lieut Col. Smith commanded and directed = Le battalion with oharacteristio gallantry and ability 3d. Brevet Col Garland (lieutenant colonel 4th in- fantry) commanded the Ist brigade, conspicuous in many fields io the present war; -in this last grest combat, by skill. conduct aod courage, he has rey added to an already established r-patation for patriotiam at diership Of bis brigude, Mejor Galt commanded aad « Dantly led the 2d artillery, (noting as infantry;) Lieut. Col Belton, the 34 artillery. (also acting as infantry;) and Major Lee, the 4th infantry The chief of the bri- gade speaks in terms of commendation of each of these commanders, A list of officers engazed. as also of non-commissioned officers and privates in each regiment, will be found in wees regimental reports, to which reference is respectfully made. 4th Col. Clarke commanded the 2d brigade—s vete- ran of the war of 1812, and heretofore distinguished by seal and intelligence in this war—was, while gallantly leading his brigade into dactle, struck from his saddle, and disabled for several hours ; whereupon the com- mand devolved upon Brevet Col. Molatosh, (Lieutenant Colonel 5th Infantry.) who led on with the prestige of many well-fought fi-lds, and acquitted himself, as aways, with high courage and devotion. The command of the Sth infantry devolved in turn upon Brevet Lieut. Col Scott, aud the mantle could not have fallen upon a bet- ter or braver soldier ; be most gallantly led the regiment to its assigned work, and, in s0 doing, come to the slose MS ary and joint action with the corps to whose lot it fell to carry with the bayonet the main work. One wing of the 6th infantry, # portion of which was under the zatlant lead of Captain Hoffmen, did all that it was in the power of men to do to carry the té'e de pont by direot att.ek on the main road, while the other wing, uuder Major Bonneville, was in close conflict with the enemy on the right of the road. The Sth infantry, although from its position comin t up last, by the zeal and energy of its commander, Major Waite, and by the circumstances of the ground, which impeded the ad- vaace of oth ad proximate corps, found itself in posi- tion to render most gallant and effeotive service. The companies of Captains James Bomford and Larkin Smith, under the direction of Brevet Major Wright, preceded by Adjutant Longstreet, colors in hand. were led on most bravely to the assault of the téte de pont ; crossing the ditch under a heavy fire of musketry, they mounted the rampart, and finished the work with the bayonet, closely supported by the Sth and detachments of other corps. The regimental reports of this brigade are also respectfully referred to, The medical corps, consisting of Surgeons Satterle foci! and Wright, Aseistant Surgeons Simpson, DeLeon, Simons, Holden. Roberts, and Dayerle, presents claims to especial thanks and admiration—ever among the most fearless, and in- different to hazard during the conflict. [tis after the battle, when others seek repose. that they are found skilfully and noiselesaly fulfilling the duties of their high vocation. in dministering comfort to the crushed and - | sorrowful soldier. diness for a rapid dire, ovement wh ‘The following named officers and non-commissioned oe become one of = attra Cention Co | omcers are conspicuously presented by commanders :— that quarter, | Bubs y was placed | caf Ist Brigade —Brevet Capt. Nichos, A. A A Gen.; on the laof the oxy. 'an ot nove by | Cieut Thorm, Aid-de-eamp: 2d Brigade—Lieut. Bur: Moe Dall bet: - stereo oa by Ger rie well, Aid-de-camp; Lieut. Kirkham, A. A. A. Gen: tateustaa the atccr, or, iCopporcanity offeccd. tack anet | Light Battery —Lieuts. Hunt Hays, Clark, and Sergeant one of the batteries’ Discovering thesedispositions. and | “att: Light Battalion—Licuts. Elsey, Peok, and Simp- p y the movement of the 2d brigade, and doubt: | ewhat influenced by the operations going on in jirection of Contreras, the enemy sent troops to « the advance of our left, and commenced an eva- fthe works ¢ high road occupied by the enemy's retre: aud by @ rapid movement. particularly of | he. ‘sof the 5th lofantry, under Captains Mor- vail, commanded by Lieut Col Scott, guided b ason, cut this column nearly in the centre, Meiedyenced. portion (ott moving upon Churubusco (where we shortly afterwards discovered the enemy's main array of battle) and the remainder, about two thousand in number, under Gen. Bravo, with four pleces of artillery, retreated upon Dolores, The instant Clerke’s fire opened, Garland was instructed to advance rapidly in column, r viously detaching drawing the enemy’s fire, might discover the maguitude of his batteries in that quarter; but it appeared that the ms at that point had been hastily withdrawn, in the y. Gurland’s column was soon in, unrosisted, and rapidly passed through the works and on the high road to the capital. Somesix hundred beyond the works the division was reunited, and rding the force retreating upon Dolores, the whole rapidly and 1 good order to the higher object. Approaching Churubusco—that place being on the left and near the road - it was disoovored to be strongly o0- oupied with troo s aud protected by batteries and infan- try defences. Fur her in advance was discovered a regu- lar field work, garnished with beavy guns, and crowded with troops. "Between the two # continuous line of in- fantry; and on the left, and rear of the work, (tete d- pont.) a dense line of infantry as far as the eye coult reach On getting within cannon shot, and so of musket ry, the enemy opened with +ffct upon the head of the leading battalion Garland’s brigade was now throwc promptly to the right of.and in line of columns ebliquely to, the road; which order would, in its advance and de- ployment, sirike the enemy’s line at a like angle —the light battalion on its right. The 24 brigade was ordered to move also to the right, (xcept the 6'h infantry.) and by # flank parali+l to the road. while the 6th infantry was direct~d to advance by the high road and storm the tete de pont in front. ‘The field to the right filled with standing corn, which masked large bodies of the eurmy, and from whose fire, in consequence, every com- Running over mand suffered greatly in the first instance these, Gariaad’s brigide was soon engaged with their more regular lines sud masses. Clarke's, a8 soon as it could be got in the porition above describ-d—and it came at double quick —became engaged fa like minner. Th» 6th regiment ofinfautry moved with a steadiness worthy Of its vstablished reputation, to assault the work in front | but being exposed to a combined fire of | &s direore, grape canister, and musketry, which raked the road, it was of necessity momentarily checked. Mevntime, the 8th and Sth of Ularke’s brigade, more favorably situated to effect results, but uoder terrible fire, dashed past the deep and wet ditch that entirely surrounded the work, carried it by the bayonet, and, as quick as thought,turn- ed the captured cannon upon that portion of the enemy stationed in the town, and which was combating our troops approaching from the direction of Contreras,occa sionally reversing their fire upon our left flank. Previous to this period, and when in the act of giving direction to the battalions, | was joined by Major General Pillow,who came in from the left with three regiments of his divi- sion—Cadwalader’s brigade—having with great difficul- ty made his way through the marshes ; thence, to the close of the day, | had the pleasure of his gallant associa- tion and assistance. Lieutenant Colonel Duncan’s bat- tery of litht artillery, which had been directed to be maske:, being unable to counter-batter the heavier me- tal in front, aud the intersected character ot the ground rendering it impossible to move it from the high-road, wasnow rapidly advanced by its gallant commander. and opened at a position some two hundred yards distant from thé work around the church of San Pablo, situated in, and constituting the key of, that portion of the ene iy’s defences; seizing the prolongation of a pirncipal face, in 4 space of five minutes, by a fire of astonishing rapidity, the enemy was driven from his guns in that quarter, and. the infantry from their entrenchments, the main body taking by in the chnrch and under cover of its yard walls. The fire was then turned upon the eburch, and. afters few rounds, several white flags were thrown out by the enemy, the fire ordered to cease, and an officer despatched to accept the surrender of the place To this period there had been no perceptible abatement of the fire from the town in the direc! tacking the opposite face. Immediately thereafter, our troops in the vicinity pushed on to the point where tions of Garland’s and ke’s brigades were yet engag- ed in hand-to-hand confi with the masses of infantry on the left and rear of the ured fleld-work first refer- red to; but under the triple influence of our musketry, the capture of the tite de pont, and the silencing of the fire in the town, (directed upon other divisions of our army.) the main body of the enemy was soon discovered to bein full and confused retreat. Pressing slong the highway in pursuit of the enemy, the division was soon intersect- od + the brigade of General Shields approaching from the left, with the remainder of his brave command, coa- sisting of the South Carolina and New York regiments, and also by the arrival of Lieut. Colonel Graham with the small remains of his battalion of the 11th regiment of Infantry; these were a portion of the main army as- , Meulting in the opposite direoticn of the town, the right and reserve of the enemy, under the immediate direction of the General-in-Chie’. The pursuit of the enemy by the first division, acting in concert and cordial co-opera- tion with these foroes, was continued to within one mile and balf of the gate of Mexico, (La Candelari At this point, ignorant first of the magnitude of the defences at the ‘ita, and secondly of the ulterior views of the Generelin-¢ jief, I ordered « halt of the united forces, after consulting with Major General Pillow and Brigadier General Shields, Colonel Harney coming up at this in- stant with two squadrons of maxe 6 dash at the rear of the enemy’s retiring forces. In the eager pursuit, the head of the columa pressing on too closely, and disregarding, or not hearing their com- mander’s recall, came under fire of the battery, and suf. fered severely. The ground on which the troops operat. sd, off the high road, is remarkably intersected; loose oll growing grain, and, at brief intervals, deep ditches or the purpose of drainage and irrigation. These ditches vary from six to eight feet in depth, about the same in dth. with from three to four feet of water—the reverse ka lined with the enemy’s light troops. ‘hen | recur to the nature of the ground, and the fact that the division (2,600 strong of ail arm: engaged from two to two and a half hours in d to hand con- flict with from 7,000 to 9,000 of the enemy, having the advantage of position, and occupying regular worka— which our engineers will were most skilfully con- structed —the mind is filled wich wonder, and the heart with gratitude to the brave officers and soldiers whose steady and indomitable valor has, under such circum- stences, aided in achieving results so honorable to our country—results not accomplished, however, without the sacrifice of many valuable lives sional skill the commander may bave possessed, was in- tensely exerted to spare the men; and yet, with the ut- most care, we have to mourn the lous, in killed and ‘wounded, of thirteen offvers, and three huudred and thirty-six rank aod file Our country will lament the # ve and honor the memory of these brave men A list ys Captured oe has already been handed in, as After having brushed away the | “! rout, Col Clarke’s command approached a | mn of our troops at- | por- | ralry, waa permitted to | The little profes- | son, 2d artillery; Ist Sergean' A, and Sergeant Mickel, co ny K, 2d artillery; Capt. kK. Smith; Lieut. Fanely; rgeants Updegraff, Arch- er, and Fiyun, company 5th infantry—Capt. Reeve, Lieuts. Holloway and Pitcher, 8th infantry; 2d Artillery ‘Capts McKensie ana Brooks; Lieuts. Shackelford and niels: 3d Artillery—Capt. Burke, Brevet Capt. Ayers, and Sergeant Heok: 4th Infantry—Lieut. Adj. P, and Brevet Major Buchanan: 5th Infantry—Cay rill, and McPhail; Licuts. Rossell, Fowler, and ; Sergeants Golding, man, and O'Brien: 6th Infantry— |. Hoffman and Walker; Lieuts. Armstead, Buckn and Adjutant Ernst, Sergeant Major Thompson, Battalion Sergeant | Major Owens, Color Sergeant MoCam, Sergeants Stani- | ker, Wilhams, betel a Cressy, and Downs: 8th Infan- | try—Brevet Major Wright, Capts. Bomford and Smith, | Adjutant Longstreet, and Lieut Selden (the latter pro- | sent at many battles, honorably wounded at Resaca, and not behind the foremost in zeal and courage here.) color bearer, Sergeant Major Pink, Sergeant Ford, and Sergeant Edward Bertram. Injustice would be done to | the whole division in failing to bring to the notice of | the General-in-chief the praisaworthy—if he will pardon the expression—the courageous conduct of the Rev. Mr | MeCarty, chaplain to the 2d brigade. That excellent | man and Christian was seen in the midst of the conflict | administering comfort and consolation to the stricken, | and patriotically encouraging the soldier in his forward | path of duty. |" The division commander cannot forego the opportuni- ty presen'ed to ackuowledge hia obligations and express | hisadmiration of the gallant beariag ot Major Gen Pil- | low and Brig. Gonerala Shields, Caiwalader, and Pierce with whom he had the gratification of concert and co- aperation st various critical periods ofthe conflict. And it may now, in closing, be permitted to sj staff cf the division, general and personal dinate reports will be found tospeak with o: of Captain Mason, of Eogineers; but th debar my testimony and warm acknowledgments of the | intelligeut and gallant services of this accomplished offi- Henry Wilson, company djutant Dadley, Johnson, Chit- ake of the ‘he subor- tion andestablished unequivocal cluims to higher rank Lieut Hardcastie, topographical engineers, has been fistinguished by real, intelligence and gallantry, in his particular department, an also in combat To Surgeon Yatterlee, senior medical officer, the highest praine is due. Capt. Myers, division quartermaster, has bighly Aintinguished himself orf energy &nd devotion in his par- ticular d-pactment, and by xailantry io combat Lieut Armstrong, division commissary, is also highly distin- guished for energy and devotion in his particular depart. ment. and by gallantry in combat Of the ga'lant and ficient assistance of Capt’ Mackall, Assisant Adju tant General (but in a different relation), of Brev Capt Pomberton and Lieut. Wood, aidee-de-camp, it hay been | my pleasing duty heretofore to speak under similar ciroumstences. ‘ba this occasion each member of th- staff has fulfilled every duty of his station to the entire satisfaction of thetr chief, und established new claims to profvssional distinction and reward To Lieut. Semmes of the navy, volunteer aid. de-camp, the most cordia) thanks of the general of the division are tendered for his uniform gallantry and assistance; and the General- in chief is respectfully requested to present the conduct of this accomplished and gallant officer to the special | notioe of the chief of his distinguished branch of the public service—our glorious navy | - Ihave the honor to present to the Ganeral a national standard, @ trophy secured from the enemy by the lst division. Herewith are reports:— 1st Of commanders of brigades, regiments, and corps, lettered from A to N. 2d. Tabular report of killed and wounded. 24. Report of killed and wounded by name. 4th. Map exhibiting the operations of the Ist division, executed by Lieut. Hardcastle, froma survey jointly by Capt. Mason and himself. Very reapectfally, your obedient servant, W. J. WORTH, Brevet Major Gen. U. 8, A. Capt. H. L. Scott, A. A. A. G. 50 men were absent on baggage, train, and other guards } | Hrapquarters, 2p Division or Reauars, San Angel, near Mexico, August 23,1847. { Sin—For the information of the General-in-chief of the United States army,1 have the honor to make the following report of the operations of my division, and of those of other troops which came under my commanu on the 19th and 20th instant. ‘Agreeeably to instructions from Gen. Scott, I left my train of wagons at San Augustinon the morning of the 19th, and proceeded with my division to cross the mountain route previously reconnoitred by Capt. Lee, | of the engineers, and cover a working party under the | orders of Major Gen. Pillow. Having proceeded about two miles, the enemy was discovered in force at Con- treras, where the trail intersects one of the main roads to the city of Mexico, (and some nine miles from it,) distant one mile, in a naturally strong position, mate still more so by breastworks which commanded the approach in every direction. Capt. MoLellan, of the topographical engineers, and Lieutenant McClellan, of the engineers proper. were sent in advance to recon- noitre, with a view ot pisaing our batterier. They were soon stopped by one of the enemy’s pickets, and wero compelled to return, each having had his horse shot The rifie regiment, commanded by fad Loring, was then ordered forward as skirmishers to clear the ground. This duty was formed handsomely and with despatch Having driven in the enemy’s pickets to within 300 yards of his works, Captain Magruder’s battery and the mountain howitzer and rocket battery, commanded by Lieut. Callender, of the ordngnoe,were placed in position being my senior present) I had the control of any rein- forcemente, and of every facility from his division which I required. So soon as our were established the enemy opened a most destructive fire from several of his large gues. The cannonading was kept up on both sides for several hours, until, compelled by the lors of officers, men, and crippled pieces, our batteries were | placed for the time under shelter. In this affair the very gallant and mach lamented Lieut. J. P. Johnstone, of Magruder’s battery, was mortally wounded; aud Lieut Callender, of the howitzer and rocket battery, severely wounded, The coolness and determination evinced by the officers and men whilst under this hot fire, gave sure indications of the result of the comieg conflict when all my command would get in position General Smith's brigade was ordered to proceed in the direction of our batteries, and Riley’s by inclining to the right, to get a position, if possible, in the enemy's rear. The route he was compelled to take was most difficult and tedious, passing over voloanic rocks and crossing large fissures. barely narrow enough to permit the men to get over by leaping Accompanied by Lieutenant Tower, of the en- driven before it a large body ot lancers, who attempted to check ite progress Having become separated by seven or eight hundred yards from any reinforcement. « large body of the enemy (ten or twelve thousand) waa | discovered coming from the direction of the city, and closing on Riley's rear, At the same time, from the field-work at Contreras came out two or three thousand men on (he road which the brigade had crossed, entirely | cer—in the estimation of all, he has won high repute. | by Capt. Lee, of the neers. t one batteries were ed at my disposal by the kind. | ness of Major General w, by whose magnanimity (he | gineers, this brigade finally reached the main road, and | got in position ia rear of the enemy's position, having | ering this state of a Tairs, Smith’s brigade was order- ed to form 4 junostion with Riley’s, whilet Gen Pierce's brigade occupied the left of the end remained asa support to the batteries. \.uch oredit fs due to Colonel Ransom, by whose untiring exertions and zenl the 9b and 12th infantry were placed in position near the bat- terles late in t! ht of the 19th. Late in the evening the two bri joined near the roai— having mapceuvred in the face of the enemy so as to rejoin Smith’s Still later, Shielda’s aad Cadwallader’s bri- gades formed a junction with my division then under the immediate command of Gen. Smith I being ucable, from « lame foot, to follow the route taken by my troops, returned to the vicinity of Taylor's battery, where [ passed the night General Smith made his arrangements to attack the enemy’s work the next morning. For the particulars of this affair, [ would respectfully refor the Goneral-in-chief to the reports of Gen, Smith and Col Miley. to whom, and to the other offlcers en- gaged, is due all the credit that attaches. [ was uva- ble. for che reason given above, to come up to my divi- sid till the affair was over, and the road opened for my horse In ali the recommendations from brigade aod re imental commanders [ fully concur; and, in addition for gallant servious on the 19th, would present the nai of Captain MeL+llan, topographical engineers, Li nants Beauregard, Tower, G W. Smith,G B MeClel- lan, Stevens, and Foster, of the engineers proper, (the last named offloer was particularly active in the manage. ment of on» of Captain Magruder’s piecus, after the te. mented Johnstone lost his log.) Capt Magruder, Lieut Jackson Lieutenants Callender and Reno, serving with their reepeotive batteries Lieut G B. MoClellan, after Lieut Caileader.was wounded. took charg of and ma- naged the howitzer battery (Lieut, Reno being:detarhed with the rockets) with judgment and success, until it became so disabled as to require shelter. For Lieut. MeClellan’s efficiency and gallantry in this affair, | pre- sent his name for the favorable consideration of the Ge- neral-in-chief. The medical officers of the division, al- ways ready to administer to the comfort of the siok wounded, were particularly active on this occasion — With no conveniences for themselves, and but little shelter for the wounded, this admirable corps of officers spent the entire night, exposed to the pitiless storm, in dreesing the wounded and in alleviating thei [cannot do less than give their names 4 place Surgeons C 8. Tripler, B. Randall. and J W Assistant Surgeons A. F. Suter, H H Steiner, ney, and —— Hammond, make up the number My immediate staff—Lieut Brooks, A.A A G, Lieut MeDonald, A. D.C , Captain Allen, quartermaster, and Lieutenants Grafton. urdnance officer, and Sykes, AC. S. to the division, were active and efficient in conveying orders, and, when necessary, in giving directions. Haring seoured the prisoners and captured property at Contreras, [entrenched camp.) the 4th artillery, with other corps, was left as a guard, aad to provide for the wounded and bury the dead. Pursuing s small r troat- ing force through the villages of San Angel and Santa Catarina, giving them oocasionally a running fire, until we arrived in front-of Churubusco, where the enemy were in a strongly fortified position, with seven pieces of cannon and several thousand bayonets, a large body of lanoers guarding the approash to the right of their work, which was incomplete, | came to a halt, by order of the General-in-chief, for the purpose of having a re- connolssance made. Lieut. Stevens, of the engineers, was sent forward to look at the enemy’s positions, sup- ported by the company of sappers and miners Ho reported a good position for Taylor's battery towards the lett of the work, from which it was practicable to drive from the roof an walls of the church such of the enemy as, from their elevated position, could annoy my foot- troops destined to storm the work surrounding the church. The battery was accordingly crdered. It open- ed with great spirit, and remained under a most galling and destructive fire of grape, round-shot, shell and mus- ketry, for an hour and a half; by which time. having accomplished the destred object, it was withdrawn. much crippled in officers, men, and horses. In the meantime, Smith’s brigade was ordered in the same di- rection the battery took, immediately in front of the work, and Riley’s further to our left, with a view of turning and gaining entrance to the open portion of the entrenchments on the enemy’ tht. After an uninter- rupted and sevore fire on both sic for two hours, my troops entered the work All the regiments were close at hand, and shared equally in the dangers and honors of the day. General Rincon, the commander ¢f the place, and two other general officers, together with seve- ral others of rank, in all numbering 104, and 1,165 non- commissioned officers and privates, prisoners of war, Seven pieces of cannon, and a | number of small arms,and some ammunition, fell into our hands, This closed the operas of my division, which been under arms in sion, for thirty hours, and achieved one of the most glorious triumphs to the American arms—placing in pos- session of the United States government 29 artillery, a large number of small arms, and a great amount of araraal ton. of all kinds, together with 2,655 ers of war. bat Capt. Lee, of the engineers, I have again the plea- sure of tendering my thanks tor the exceedingly valua- ble services rendered Hizough obi whole of these ope- rations; and to Lieut. G. W. Smith, of the engineers, who commanded the company of sappers and miners, I am under many obligations for his services on this and on other occasions. Whenever his legitimate duties with the pick and spade were performed, he always solicited permission to join in the advance of the storming party with his muskets,in whieh position his gallantry, and that of his officers and men, was conspicuously displayed at Contreras as well as at Cerro Gordo. His name [also present to the Commanding General for distiction. Finally, to Brevet Brigadier General Smith and Bre vet Colonel Riley, all the praise I can bestow is entitled, for their cordial and invaluable support to me, on all occasions and in évery cy. Their names, al- ready conspicuous in the present campaign, have been rendered doubly so during the two recent battles. My effective force on the morning of the 20th was one hundred and eleven officers, and twenty-five hundred and thirty non-commissioned officers nad privates; and of that number were kilied and wounded, twenty-one officers. and two hundred and forty-five men, Killed, | wounded and missing. For more minute information, [ will refer you tothe sscompanying reports of brigade and regimental com- manders. A listof the killed, wounded, and missing, I have the honor to present wita this report I bave the honor to be, very ronpectfally. your obs- dient servant, DE TWIGGS, Brig General U 8S, A., Com’g 2d Division Regulars. Captain HL Scott, AA AG, Headquarters of the army in the field. e Heapquantens, lat Barc. 20 Divis or Recurans, San Angel, (near Mevion) Aug 23.1847. Sir: On the 19th instant, my brigade, with the rest of the division, marched from San Augustin to cover the division of General Pillow. opening the road from San Augustia to that which runs through this place to the city, in order to tura the position of San Antoalo. Ad- vancing xbout one and a half mile, we were met by the fire of the Mexican batteries opporite to us on the San Angel road Between us was about a halt mile of lava rooks, almost impassable for a siogly footman, then a slope down towards # raviae, on the opposite bank of which were the road and the enemy’s works, on w height called Contrerss. The front faced us, and the left flack swept the road oelow it,a turn forwards in the road bringing the work directly in the prolongation of th» lower part of the road. Tbe work had upwards of twen- ty large guns, was full of infantry, and large masses of cavalry and infantry were bebind it and on its flanks — Magruder’s battery was ordered forward to a position in front of the enemy, and partially covered by @ ledge of rocks. My brigadeqvas ordered to follow and support it and cover the advauce of the party making the road.— We went forward under a verysheavy fire, and took a ition on the lett of Magruder’s battery. We found jeut. Cullender’s howitzer battery at this point. When we took this direction Riley's brigade was sent to the right. Magruder’s battery and the howitzer battery were goon disabled, and,on examining the ground, it was evident that we were advancing by the only path that crossed the broken bed of lava, audon which the enemy were pre| d to receive us, having cleared away all the bushes that obstructed their view.— The guns could go no further, and the infantry would, on its march down the slope, be exposed to a terrible fire,without knowing whether the crossing ofthe ravine below was possible. Being isolated from the divi. “oa, { determined to try one of the enemy’s flanks ; and that on our right being preferable, ag it would cut off his retreat, | determined to move,in that direction, tak- ing Livut. G. W. Smith’s engineer company, the Ist artillery under Major Dimick, and 3d infantry under Captain Alexander, andas many of the mounted rifle- men as could be collected near; the regiment having been detached as skirmishers at the first by General ‘Twiggs, and ordered by him to cover different parties of reconnoitring officers. Captain Magruder was directed to open his fire as we passed his rear, to Cte the enemy, aud mask our movement to the right. ‘This he did most effectually, though suffering from a great loss, eapectally of officers. To reploce this loss, Lieut. Has- kins and twenty men were detached from Maj. Dimick’s regiment, «nd three companies of the 3d infantry were letttosupport him With great diffloulty we succeeded in crossing the rock for near a mile, aud descended to. wards the village of Encelda, whose church was visible among the trees. As we emerged from the rocks, we saw immense numbers of troops, cavalry and infantry. approaching from Mexico, and forming on the slope on the opponite side of the village. We crorsed two small streams at tho bottom of deep and difficult gulleys, and found some of our troops in the village, they proving to be four regiments, chiefly of General Pillow’s division, and under command of General Cadwalader, who imme- diately reported tome. The village lay entirely on the other if the main road, and a swall stream ran be- tween them at the bottom of a ravine. On the road, and betwoen it an! the stream, was a garden and house surrounded by @ high and tolerably strong stone wall, The village waa intersected by narrow lanes lying be- tween high dikes, enolosing gardens full of trees and shrubbery—the lanes affording cover, and the trees con- cealment for the men. In the centre stood an old stone church. | drew Gen. Cadwalader’s force up in the outer odge of the village, facing the enemy—placed the 3d in fantry and rifles in column by company, left in front on the right flank—occupied the church with Lieut Smith's engineer company and Capt. Irwia’s company of the 11th regiment—placed Major Dimick’s regiment in the garden on the road, to secure that avenue and our rear. The enemy was now formed opposite to us in two lines —the infantry in front, and cavalry im the rear—about ten thousand strong. It was now after sunset when Col. Riley’s brignde arrived. It had crossed and gone up to. wards Contreras, [entrenched camp.) and driven off the a I now ordered an attack right, intending right of the former—retired in echellon ; but before the troops could be disengaged from the thickets, (the off cers being without horses,) it was already so dark that the enemy’s line could not be seen, and the order for at- tack was countermanded. Gen. Cadwalader took posi- tion again in the outer edge of the villago; Riley's brigade parallel to it in # long line inside ; the rifles uader Major Loring on bis right, and the 3d infantry in the chureh- yard, The troops were without rhelter or Bre, and it rained all night. At this time Lieut Tower raporied (hat he bad been at the ravine towards the rear of the enemy's works at Contreras, and thought it practicable for infantry, though very <ifficule with betwoen twenty-five and thirty guns—amoog the troops, six or seven thousand cavalry. We were, at most, three thousand three bundred strong, and without ar the face of the enemy, without intermis- | leces of | to attack in two columne | y's on Our left, and Gen. Cadwalader’s on the | i ing their rear before day;and ©: 4 Offered to return to Grn. Scott (4 most diffloult task) and ‘efor hivo of our position, and that | would march out by 3 o’elock a. m. so thet aay diversion thache could make in our favor from that side might be prepared agcor- dingly: ‘The officers commanding brigades were iaform- ed ofthe plan and order of attack. and directed to have their commends formed, and the heads resting on the path by which we were to march out by 26 A.M. | was &t a loss how to secure our rear; for if the enemy took possession of the village, he would not only secure the retreat of his force at Contreras, (his entrenchments) but would greatly embarrass us; and [ was not strong enough to detach largely for ‘that purpose. At this jancture Gen. Shields’s aid arvived, and d that ‘the general was near, on the other side of the ravine, with the South Carolina and New York volunteers. These two regiments were directed to hold Enoelda, (1 village) and cut off the retreat of the troops from Con- treras. (the camp.) or take his large reserve in flank. if it changed front to the right to attack us towards Contre- ras. (‘he camp) At precisely 3 o’clock in the mornin, of the 20ch, the troops commenced their march. It hi rained all night, and the men had lin in :he mud, with- out fre, and suffering from cold. It rained now, and was so dark that an object six feet off could not be seen The men were ordered to keep within touch of each other, so that the rear could not go astray. Lieut. Tower, of the engineers, with Lieut. Brooks, acting as sistaut adjutant general of the 2d division, now acting in my staff, had, during the night. again resonnoitred the pass, to assure the practicability of the march Lieut. Tower accomoanied the heal of the column, to vad it, and Lieut Brooks and Lieut Beauregard, engi- neers, went with me at the headof Gen. Cadwalader’s brigade. Col. Riley’s brigade led. Gen, Cadwalader’s was to follow, and Major Dimick, with my own brigade, at the head of which was Lieut.G W. Smith, oogtneet company, closed the rear. The path was narrow, full of rocks and mud, and so difficult was the march that it was daybreak before the head of Cadwalader's brigade got out of the village, where the path descends to the ravin: and as the march was bya flank, the command stretched out thrice its length. ing followed np th ravine to a point where it reemed possible to rear of the work, the head was halted, and the rear closed up; many loads that were wet wore drawn, and Riley formed two columns by divisions. Ho thus advanced farther up the ravine, turning to his left, and rising over the bank, stood fronting the rear of the work, bat still sheltered from its tire by a slight acolivity betore him Having reformed his ranks. he Ascended the top of the hill, and was in full view of the enemy, who immediately opened a warm fire, not only from the work, but on his right flink Throwing out hie two first divisions as skirmishers, he rushed down the slope to the work. The engineer company and ri- fies had been thrown across an intervening ravine, under the brow of the slope, and from that position swept it in front of his column, and then, inclining towards their left, {eine in the attack on the troops outside of the left flank of the fort. Inthe meantime, Gen. Cadwal- ader followed the route taken by Riley, and, forming his colums as the troops came up, moved on to his [Ri- Ivy's] support, The lst brigade had been ordered to follow the same route; but, while it was still marchin; in that direction by its right flank up the ravine, an nearly Soyonite the work, py large body of the enemy on its left flank, I ordered Major Dimick to face the brigade to the left, and, advancing in line, attack this force iu flank, This was done in the finest siyle, and the Ist artillery and 3dinfantry, mounting the bank of the ravine, rushing down the next, and up its opp bank, met the enemy outside of the work just as R brigade poured into it, and the whole giving way. (: valry, formed in line for the charge. yielding to the bay- oneta of eur foot, the rout was complete, while Riley’s brigade cleared the work, and planted their colors on it The two first pieces captured, which fell into the hands of the 4th artillery, proved to be the pieces lost (but without loss of honor) by a company of that very regi ment at Buena Vista Leaving a force to collect and guard the captured ordnance, the pursuit was continued down the road. This, it will bo recollected, passed not more than half a mile’ off the gerden and house occupied by a part of General Shields’s brigade, placed there to intercept the retreat of the enemy. This skilfal and gallant officer, when we marched, had spread his men over the line we had occupied, and directed them to make fires towards daylight, as though preparing their breakfast. The enemy in front had, during the night, placed batteries along their line, and in the morning moved detachments forward to teke in flank the attack he saw we were me- ditating the night before, which he was preparing to meet —sup; ing. from the indications he found, that we were still in force in the village. When, after di light, ho saw a columo moving on Contreras, [the ei trenched camp] and already prepared to turn it, he must hive supposed we had been strongly reinforced ; for his movements to and fro indicated great perplexity. His doubts were soon resolved, however, by the loss of Contreras, [the camp.] and he immediately commenced a basty retreat along the top of the hill, inclining to- wards the San Angel road. Shields’s force (500 or 600 men) having, under his skilful direction, thus disposed of one ener:y, he turned to the other, who, in their flight, found themselves intercepted at the garden, and under the cure fire of the South Carolina regiment, broke away over the opposite fields, and taking shelter in the ditches and ravines, escaped, many of them, to the rooks. ‘Two squadrons of oavalry, eithier by chance or a wise Cae i in a narrow part of the road between tho wall and dike, laid down their srms, and so choked the way, that the pursuit was interrupted for upw: of twenty minutes ; which sufficed (we having no oa ry) for the safety of many of the fugitives. A lars body escaped upwards towards the mountains. I did not pursure them, being entirely out of our direction, Accounts from Mexican officers, intercepted since the battle, inform us that there were seven thousand in and about Contreras [the entrenched camp]. commanded by General Valencia, and upwards of twelve thourand in front of Encelda [or the hamlet of Contreras], ia re- serve, commanded by Geueral Santa An We killed seven hundred, and took fifteen hundred prisoners «mong them several generals, We captured 22 pivoes «f brass ordnance. viz: 4 Spanish J6-pounders, 4 8-inch howitzers, 2 5)4-inch howitzers,’ 6-pounders, and 6 smaller pieces, with a large amount of shells and other ammunition. We also took 700 pack mules and many hors~s, and an immenre number of small arms, which we destroyed. After directing the prisoners and pro- perty to be collected, | directed the pursuit to be conti- ued, and was forming the coluan, when Gon, Twigue arrived. He immediately ordered the most vigorous pursuit, and we moved forwards. As we approachyd San Aogel, the rifles were again thrown forward us skir mishers, and entered the town at the heels of the ene- my’s lancers, capturing an ammunition wagon. Herp General Pillow assumed command, and at Coyoacan the commander-in-chiefcame up. The Ist brigade was sent. forward with the rest of the division towards Churu- ousco; the rifles were detached to the right, to cover » reconnoissence Livutenant Stevens, of the engineers, covered by Lieut. Smith’s engincer company, weut for ward to reconvoiire the church of Churubusco, and re- ported a one-gun battery across the road, which could be turned by its left ihe Ist artillery was directed to be detached for that purpose, aud marched in that di- rection. A heavy fire opening there, I was ordered up with the 3d infantry, and shortly atter, Taylor's battery was placed in position, fronting the buildings about the church, the 3d infantry supporting it At this time the tremendous fire from the neighborhood of the church showed clearly, not only that there was a stroag force stationed there, but that there was also a more con- siderable work than was at first supposed; but, being all surrounded by very high corn, its form could not be dia. covered, It wards proved that the piace was regu- larly fortified. The church buildings formed « larga square; the lower front towards us was chiefly a wall soaffolded for infantry, Bebind it rose a higher build- ing, also covered with infantry; behind it the church; and the high steeple on its right flank also filled with mon. In fromt of the first waa a curtain, connscting two salient pr aes which flanked it, and were continued back to the side walls of the church. It was garrisonud bv about two thousand men, and mounted 7 pieces, What was supposed to be the one gun battery, was the right salient angle which enfiladed the road trom Coyo acan; so that when the Ist artillery attempted to turn it, they found themeelves in front of this curtain, and exposed to all the musketry of the walla beyond ‘They. however, stood their ground with great loss, getting such cover as the ground afforded, and firing at the er. brasures when opportunity offered. It was now reported that the other beigede (Ril-y’s) was ordered round to the right of the work, and General Pillow’s division to ita left. 1 therefore ordered the 3d infantry to be ready, #0 soon as the fire of these corps began to teli, to advance under the cover of some huts novar the right bastion. and, after silencing the fire of ite musketry, to assault it, Inthe atime Taylor’s battery had continued its fire uninterrupted by the severest shower of grape, canis- ter, musketry, round shot, and shell, within short mus ket range, that was ever witnessed, The conduct of Cap- tain Taylor, Lieut French, and the men who remained unhurt, was the admiration of all who witnessed it The pieces were served as though on drill, while two of the officers, Lieuts. Martin and Boynton, and twenty men wounded, and fifteen horses crippled, laid around, and testified to the danger of their position, Hearing now the fire from the other corps,and finding that of the work to be less steady, I directed Capt. Alexander, (command ing 3d infantry) to advance to the position indicated and commence his work. After clearing the ramparts partially of their men, the 3d rushed over the bastion, led by Capt. J. M Smith and Lieut. Shepherd, and their companies, and a part of the Ist artillery, over the cur- tain, when the garrison held out a white flag, and sur- rendered to Capt. Smith, who was fortunate enough to ba the first in the work. Many had escapedfrom the back of the church; but 104 officers, among them generals, and 1,155 men were counted after the It is proper here to observe, in order to prevent er- ir, that after Captain Alexander’s command id the surrender ot the garrison,and had gone up into the gallery ot the front house with General Rin- con, from which he was displaying the colors of his regi- ment, a staff officer from another division, who had eeu the white flag stil fying, rode into the work to receive the surrender which had been made some time before to Capt Alexander. Seven pieces of bress cannon, much ammu- nition and smail arms, the prisoners before mentioned and animportant position,were the fruits of this vi tory [should have mentioned before that Capt. Craig had in the morning rejoined the regiment with the three companies left with Capt. Magruder; and those compa afes of riflemen who had been left in the pedregal, (field of rocks and lava.) had also joined the regiment The troops, in the actions in the pedrogal, on the nf. ternoon of the 19th, and at Contreras and Churubur- 60, on the 20th, distinguished themselves far beyond wy capacity to do them justice. The diffloulties they over- came—suppowed by the enemy to be insuperable—the ardships they endured, and the fatigue they suffered. contrasted with the manner in whioh they did their work, raises their character as soldiers highly iewards “perfection, Brig. Gen, Cadwallader, [in the morning] brought his We bad now in | front, and on our left flank, eighteen thousand Mexicans | corps up from his intricate bivounc in good order. furm- ed the head of bis column to support Riley's, and led it forwardin the most gnilant style under the fire directed at the latter, The Ist brigade was conducted by Mujor Dimiok, who charged in line with it on the enemy’s left, driving before him tue force formed there outside of the works, wod putting to rout » far superior force, display ing she skill of the commander as well as the bi ry of the soldier. But the opportunity afforded by his posi- on to Col. Riley was seiz d by that galiant veteran wit!: ul the skilland energy for which he js distinguished Che charge of his noble brigade down the slope, in full view of friend aad foe, unchecked even for a moment, the tro) Baio! riflemen; Capts. Winder and Naumai non, Seymour, aud Coppee, and Assistant Surgeon until we arrived before Churubusco. was found strongly fortiied, aud posted with bis maia foroe—probably 26,000, under Tw: wan b phate Ao peciey when [ mander-in-ohlef with my two brigade—the 9th, 19th, aad 15th—with the mountain z 3 i A soglpant, setting an example by their rage.carried the part ot thework Ditore thea; sad Capt: Drum, of that corps, had the fortune to recover Jes of Buena Vista. cel Plympton and Mejor bi with the 7th infantry, es that veteran ment deserves to be led, aad Capt. Morris, in com of the 2d in aT brought it up to share equally with the others {a the honors of the successful assault. Capt conduct brought his regiment up most Alexander's 2 tlootively.. Siajof Loring, detached to cover Col. Riley’s left, showed not only a perfect knowledge of the value of his arm, bat .he courage aud activity necessary to make it effective. Lieut, G W. Smith, {a com»und of the engineer cOmpany, and Lieut. McClellan, his subsitern, distinguished themselves throughout the whole of the three actions, Nothing seemed to them too bold to be undertaken, or too dititeuls to be executed; and their norvices a8 engineers were a# valuable a3 those they ren- red in battle, at the head of their gallant men. Lieut. Foster, being detached from his company during the ac- tion at Contreras, did not fail under my notice; but in the actions on the 19th, and c be was equally conspicuous for his gallantry rting to the conduct of the staff, I wish to record particularly my admiration of the conduct of Captain Lee, of the engi- neers His reconnoissances, though pushed far beyond the bounds of prudence, were conducted with so much skill. thas their fruits were of the utmost value-—the soundness of his judgment and personal daring being equally conspicuous. Livuts Beauregard and Tower, of the same corps. rendered me the most important services, in examining the ground, and displayed throughou: the greatest personal gallantry. ‘To the latter I am indebted for the knowledge of the route by which it was practic :ble toturatheenemy’s works The accident which separated the different parte of the division on Lhe evening of the 19th, left ite acting assistant adjutant general. Lieut W. C H Brooks, with Col Riley’s brigade, and on its joining mo he offered his services on my staff, [owe him my thanks for the very eflicivot aid he rendered me, and for his indefatigable energy and readiness to encounter avy danger or difficulty; his personal courage and coolness were brilliantly displayed in the course of thedsy. The events of Fort Brown, Monterey, Vera Cruz, and Cerro Gordo had alread afforded to my aid-de-camp, Lieut Eart Vau Dorn, cpportunities of calling forth the com- mendations of his commanding officers. He has not let pass the present one; but though bis gallantry was egain abown ina personal conflict with the enemy, it is far from being the highest quality of a soldier that he pos. seasés, The names of officers who distinguished them. selves in the corps of Generals Cadwalader and Shields will no doubt be found in the reports of those generals tothe headquarters of divisions to which they properly belong. It would be impossibl» for me to gp amerate the acta of all those in the 2d division (Twiggs’) who have ontitled themselves to particular mention. [ beg leave to make the brigado and regimental reports, which 1 herewith transmit, « part of my own—merely repeating here the names of those officers mentioned therein as ecullarly dvaerving praise, Capt, Wessels and Capt Canby, A A G.; and Lieut, Benjamin and Lieut. Hay- den, A D. C., (meationed in 2d brigade report;) Cap- tning Sanderson, Baokenstos, Porter, and Crittenden; Lieuts. Van Buren, McLane, Gibbs, and Palmer; and Assistant Surgeon Suter of the regiment of mounted Licuts, Bron- H, Hi. Steiner of the Ist artillery; Capt. Drum end Lieu- ny. tenant Howe, and Assistant Surgeon Cuyler of the 4th artillery ; Captains Casey, J. bury; Smith, and Kings- Lyons, Jones, Jarvis Tilden, and Davis, of the 2d infantry; Captains Crai; Van Horne, and Chaadler; Lieutenan’s Buel and Ric! Lieutenants Gardaer, ardson, and Assistant Surgeon Keeney, of the 3d infaut- ry; Captains Ross and Paul, and Lieutenants Gantt Tyler, and Henry, of the 7th infantry. Butas the but- tery of Captain Taylor was at Churubusco acting im- mediately under my own eye, and displaying, from its gallant commander, down to the lowest non-commis- stoned officer, a coolness and astivity under oiroumatan ces of the most extraordinary danger, I ask lenze to record here. besides the names of its four offloers, already mentioned, the names of Sergeants ‘Thomas Wilson, Patrick Martin, Joseph McGee, Charles Kull- meyer, and Corporala M. Bigelow, John Jones, Win Bar- bour, and William Jameson In the action at Churu- busco were killed Captains Capron and Burke, lst artil- lery, and Lie Hoffman, ist artillery; and were wounded, Captain Craig and Lieut. Buel, 31 infantry. In the predregal were wounded, on the 19:h, Captains Hathaway, Ist artillery, and Chandler, 3d infantry; Lieut. Van Buren, mounted riflemen; at Contreras, Captains Weasels, 2d Hemet aad Ross, 7th infantr; Lieutenant Collins, 4th artlilery, and Tilden, i fantry, were wounded. But the victory thi im- portant as it is, was dearly bought by the death of Captain Charles Hanson, 7th rie PB A more perfect soldier never fell on battle-field—kind in all his affections—just in all his aste—pure in his life ; and im- moveable in his courage, he met tho present with the boldness of @ man, and the fature with the pious confi- dence of a Christian. ‘The force present on our sida at Contreras, inciading General Shields, was about 3,650 men ; that of the enemy about the works, 7,000, under Valemcia and in their re- serve, 12,000, under the Presideat, Santa Anua. I transmit herewith a return of the killed and wound- ed, but leaving out all those wounded at Contreras who were not disabled. Our loss in killed aud wounded there did not exooed ; have the honor to be, Very respectfully, ‘Your obd’t. servant, PERSIFOR F SMITH, Brevet Brig. General. Lieut. W. T. H. Brooxs, Aot'g. Assist Adjt Gen, 24 division of regulars. Meapqvantens VoLuntern bat San Augustin, Aug. 26, 1847 Sir ; I have the honor to enclose the report. of “Brig General Shields of the operations of that portion of my diviaion which was actively engaged ia the reoeat bat- tles before the city of Mexico Having been ordered by the General-in-chief to re- main at this pcivt in reserve with the remainder of my division, consisting of the 2d Penusylvania regiment, uu- der commnnd of Colonel Roberts. the battalion of m- rines, under Lieut, Colonel Watson, Captain Steptos’s battery. and Captain Gaither’s troop of dragoons, I have nothing to add to the enclosed report of Brig Geueral Shivlds, exceptthe expression of my unqualified admi ration of the distinguished conduct of that gallant offi . oer, and my approbation of the good conduct and mal lantry of the portion of my division which had the good fortune to be actively engaged under his command The troops which remained ut this place in reserve | diligently performed the burdensome duties which feli | tothefr lot during and after the severe conflicts which) took place before theeity Colonel Robderis, 2d Penneyl- vania regiment, Lieut Colonel Watson, of the marinys. and Captains Steptoe and Gaith-r, ussidaously shared the labors and cares which devolved pon me. My thanks are due to Ist Lieut Lovell, acting nasistant ad jutant general. and Lieut Wilcox, my aid, for their able and active performance of their dutivs. Tslao take this opportunity of noticing the energy, activity, and zeal | with which Captain Daniels. the division quartermuster, | has performed his duties, both on the march and while | in thie ‘ition ey have the honor to be, Very respectfully, y retPour obs. servant, J. A QUITMAN, Maj. Gen, Comdg. Vol. Divis. Capt H.L. Scott, AA. AG Hravquantens Ist Buigave Vor. Drestion,} San Augustin, Mexico, August 24th, 1847 S1a—On the 19th inst,, about three o’clock in the af- | Lernoon, pursuant to the orders of the general command ing this division, { marched from this place with the New York and South Carolina regjments of yoluateors | towards the battle fleld of Contreras On reporting to | the Commander-in-Chief, who occupied on my arrival a | position which overlooked the field, he described to me, ia a few words, the position of the contending forces, pointed out the route of my command, and briefly in structed me as to the dispesitions which would render my force the most serviceable. Directing my march upon the village near Contreras, the troops had to pass over ground covered with rocks aud crags, and filled with chasms, which rendered the road almost impassable. A deep rugged ravine, aloug the bed of which rolled a rapid stream, was passed, after dark, with great difficulty aud exertion; and to rest the wearied troops after crossing, [ directed them te lie up- on their arms until midnight. While occupying this position. two strong pickets, thrown out by my orders. discovered, fired upon, and drove back a body of Mexican infantry moving through the fields in a direction from their position towards the city. I have since learned that an attempt had in like manner been made by the enemy to pasa the position on the main road occupied by the Ist regiment of artillery, and with like want of success. About midnight | in resumed the march. and joined Brigadier General Smith in the village al- ready referred to. Gen. Smith, previous to my arrival, had made the most | judicious arrangements for turning &nd surprising the Mexican position about daybreak, and with which | could not wish to interfere. ‘This cast upoa my com- mand the necessity of holding the position to be evacuated by General S , and which was threatened by the enemy’s artillery aud infantry on the right, and » large force of his cavairy on theleft About daybreak | the onesny opened a brisk fire of grape and round shot apoa tis church and village in which my brigale war posted, #8 also upon a part of our own troovadisplayed to | right and front— evidently unaware 6! | the movementin progress to turn his position by thy | divert him on bi left and rear, This continued until Colonel Kiley’s brigade opened its fire from the rear, which was delivered with such terrible effect that the whole Mexican force was thrown inco the utmost consternation. At this junoture, I ordered the two regiments of my command to throw themselves on the maio road, by which the enemy must ret re, to intrroept and cut off his retreat; and. altaough officers and men had euffered howitser battery, and ordered to a it to atteck the enemy's had od ‘Reno iene Leaving Coyoacsn by a left-hand road, and advancin, it it, [moved thence with my comman wamnpy clin ahicn ta ritaated Pogue open he hacienda do los . On the edye of this feld, ire from Chi 4 found his re- serve of at infautry al: edeaplod | it, just in Tear of the . As my o Srrived,| estab- lished the 1/ u it upom a point recommended by Captain Lee, eng'ncer officer, in whoee skill and judgment had the utmost confidence, and commenced a movement to the left, to flank the enemy on his right, and throw my troops between him and the city; but finding his right supported by ahrayy body of cavalry of some 3000 strona, and seeing, too, that with his infantry he answered to my movements by a corresponding one towards his right flank, gaining ground than I could, owing to the heavy mad and swamp through which | had to op rate, I withdrew the men to the cover of the hacienda, and determined to aitack him upon bis front. | selected the’Palmetto regiment as the bage of my line. aad this gallant regiment moved fur firmly and rapidly under # fire of musketry as terrible, perhaps, as any which sol- diers ever fac: the New York, 12th and 15th, deployed gallantly on the right, and the 9th on the left, and the whole advanced, opening their tire as they came up, aud moving steadily forward. The enemy began to and when my order to charge was given, the m upon and scattered his broken ranks. As we reached the road, the advance of Worth’s command appeared, driving the, enemy from his stropghold of Churubuseo. { took command of the frovt, #od cootinued in pursult until passed by Harney with his cavalry, who followed the routed foe into the very gates of the city. Io this terrible battle, ia which # strongly fortified enemy fought behind his works, under the walls of his capital, our loss ia necessarily severe, ‘This loss, [ regret to say. has fallen most Dang 3 upon my command = in the two regiments of my own brigade, numbering about 600 in the fight, the loss is reported 240 in killed and wounded, Jo this last engagement my command captured 380 prisoners, including 6 officers Of this number, 42 had deserted from the ariny during the war, and at their head was found the notorious O'Reilly, who had fought against our troops at Monterey and elsewhere, A par- tloalae: and detuiled report of the loss, xs also of the pri- soners cspiured by the command, accompanies this re- port. Pierce's re under my command in this action, lost a considerable number in killed and wounded. Amongzt the latter, the gallant Coionel Morgan of the 15th, This command having rejoined its division im- mediately after the action, | have, us yet, received no official report of its loss in closiug this report, I beg to offer my thanka to the many gallant offloers of my command for their zealous and fearless support during the conflict. ‘To votonel Burnett and Lieut. Col. Baxter, of the New York volun- teers; to Lieut Col Dickingon and Major Gladden, South Carolina volunteers; as elso to many of their gal- lant subordinates, every praise isdue Coil Burnett was severely wounded #! the head of his regiment; and Lieut, Col. Dickinson also ssverely wounded whilst in com- mand of bis regiment, and while bearing gallantly for- ward the colors of his corps. My thanks are due to the medical staff of the command—Doctors Halstead and. MeKebbin, of the New York, and Dre, Clurk and Bland, of the South Carolina regiments; as also to Doctor Swift, U.S Army, for their devoted attention to the wounded, i {t affords me plessuré, and I but perform my duty, too, in acknowledging my great obligations to Captain R. KE! Lee, engineer eurps; as particular staff, Capt. #. N. Page, A. A.G Hammond, 3d artil- lery, aid de-camp; M. Davis, of Ii acting as aid, for their gallant sorvices and fearless ex- posure in encoureging the troops, and conveying my orders during the different engagements. Lieut Reno, commanding howitaer,battery, deserves great credit for the handsome manncr in which he brought his guns into acti ud continued to serve them. I beg respectfully, through the general of division, to ask for these gentiemen the favorable notice of the com- mander in-chicf, and to commend them to the President. Lieut Shubrick, of the navy, who accompanied me, at. tached himselfto the Palmetto regiment of bis native Stute, and fonght in its ranks, and is spoken of hand- somely in the report of its commander. Whilst thua enjoying the pleasure of bestowing my commendation upon the living, I turn with feelings of sorrow, though with pride, to recollect the gallant dead. Lieuts. Adams and Willlams, of the South Carolina regi- ment, and Lieut Chandier, of the New York regiment, ure of thoge who gallantly fell. Yielding their lives to achieve this glorious victory, they have won e, soldier's fame with ldier’s death. ‘The nobl id gullant colonel of the South Cerolina regiment, P. W Butler, had risen from his sick bed to share the hardships of the field and the dangers of the vombat with his devoted regiment. He survived ounflict of the mi rning to lead his command where vi: tory again awaited it. Although wounded himeelf, and having lost bis horse, shot under him, he still continued to press onwards near the colors of his regiment until the fatal ball terminated bis lifo. A gallant soldier in his youth, he has won in bis death upon the fleld of battle, fame for himself and his regi- mont, and added another name to the roll of Carolina’s departed heroes. I am, very respectfully, your cbedient servant, JAS. SHIELDS, Brig_Gen. comd’g lst brig. vols. To Lieut. M Loveut, 4th Art., A. A A. G, Heapqvantens, Cavatny Baicapr, ‘Tacusava, Mexico, Aug 24, 1847, Sin—I have the honor to present the following report of the operations of the cavalry brigade under my eom- mend during the battle of Mexico, The cavalry force being necessarily weakened by de- tachments to the different divisions of the army, | sound myeelf, on the morning of the 19th inst., in the inmuedi- ate command of nine companics ouly, oomsisting of six companies of the 2d dragoooa, one company of mount- ed riflemen, and two companies of mouuted velunteors With this force | was ordered 4 the General-in-Chicf to report to Brigadter General Triggs, who was at this time coveriag Major Geueral Pillow’s division in au ef- fort to make aroad through the ridge of lava which forms the pass of Sea Antonio Owing to the nature of the ground, | was compelled to halt wichia range of the enemy’s shells, and toremaia in t .is position fur several | hours-—an idle spectator of the action which ensued, | After night I retarned with my command to san \ugus- tin, and remained there until the en»my’s position at Contreras wads carried on the moraing of the 20th As soon a6 the road was ascerifiaed to be opened and practicab ¢ for cavalry, [ was directed by the Gener«l-in Chief to proceed with two squadrons aud Capt McKin- stry’s company of volunteers tothe field of battle, and to take charge of the prisouers whichh d been captured. While in the execution of tois order, I received in truc- tions from the General-iu-Chief to Jeave oue squadron in chargeof the prisouers, and to r port to bim in per- sou with the other three compauies Capt Binke, with his squadron, was directed to perform this duty; while Major Super and myeelf, with Cept Ker’sequadron | and Capt MeKinstry’s company of voluateersioined the | Commaading General near the fleld of Churuvuxeo. just ater the engagement at that place had c mmenced ‘The reports of Major Suwner, commanding ist bat- talion, and Lieut Col Moore, commanding 2u battalion, which | have the honor to forward herewith, will show ia what maoner the other trocps and squadrons of my command were employed. The three troops of horse | brought by me onghe field, beimg ordered away in differ- ent directions, Méjor Sumner and myeelf soon found | ouraelves without commands | then employed myseif | with my staff im rallying fugitives end encouragin: our troops on the left of the main road. Major Sumuer, to- wards (he close of the engagement, was placed by the general-in-chief in charge of the last reserve, consisting of the rifle regiment and one company of horse, and was ordered to support the lett. This foree was moving ra- pidiy to take its position im line of battle, when the enemy broke and fled to the city. At this moment, perceiving that the enemy were retreating in disorder on one of the main Cau-eways leading to the city of Mexieo, I collected all the eavalry within my reach, con- sisting of parts of Captain Ker 8 company 2d dragoons, Capt. Kearney’s company Ist dragoonr, ‘and Captains MeReynold 8 and Duperu’s companies of the 3d dra- goons, and pursued them vigorously uatil we were balt- vd by the discharge of the batteries at their gute. Many of the enemy were overtaken in the pursuit, and cut down by our subres. J cannot speak in terms too com- plimentary of tke manver in which this charge was ex- ecuied My nly difficulty was in restrainiog the im- petuosity of my men and officers, who seemed to vie with each other who should be foremost in the pursuit. Capt. Kearney galiam'ly lvd his squadron into the very entrenchments of the enemy, aud bad the misfortane to lose au arm from # grape shot fired from # gun at one of the main gates of the capital. Capt. McReynolds and Lieut, Grabam were also wounded, and Lieut. Ewell had two horses shot under bim ks Great praise is due to Major Samer, commanding let battalion, for his geal, energy, and prompticude, and for the gallant manner in which he led up the iast reserve of the General-in-chief. It is much to be revretted that the 2d battalion, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Moore, was ko cut up by detachments as to ma- terially weaken its efficiency, and to impair the useft aese of that officer, who was always at the post of dan- yer and anxious to partici ate in the conflict. My | warmestthinks are due to my brigade steff, consisting of Captain Wood, A Q M., Lieut. Steele, A. A. Gen., snd Lieut. May, my aid-de-camp, who were actively em: ployed on the worning of the 20th in rallying our men, ind who exhibited the u:most coolness and bravery un- der heavy fire of the enemy. The two last named ott cers were foremost in the porsui d Liat Stwele cut town three of the enemy with his sabre In conclusion, | beg leave to state that the dragoons, from the commencement of the march from luebla, have been engaged on the most active and isborious service. These duties have been the more arduous in | consequence of the smuil force of cavalry, compared with the other arms of service. severely during the warch of the night, and from ex- porure without shelter or cover to th order, und with rapidity The Palmetto regiment crossing a deep ravine, deployed oa both sideathe road, | and opened a most dettructive fire upon the miogled | masses of infantry aad cavairy; and ihe New York regi- ment, brought into line lower down,and on tha road side delivered ita fire with a like effect At this point many of the enemy were killed aad woun Jed; some 365 eaptur- ed, of which 26 were officers, wad amongst the latter wae General Nicolas Mendosa. vo In the meanwhile, the enemy's cavalry, about 3,006 strong, which bad been threatening our porit.on durioy the morning, moved down towards us in good order, and as if to atcack, piace them in position to meet the threatened move- | ment; but soon the cavalry changed its direction. and | retreated towards the capital frora Ge I immediately reowlled th» infantry, to | I now received an order | Twiggs to ndvance by ihe maln rad towardr | Mexico; end having posted Capt Marebail's company of South Carolina volunteers, and Capt Taylor's New York volunteers ia charge of the prisoners and wound ed, I moved off with the remainder of my force, and | Joined the positions of the 2d and 34 divisions, wlready | nm route on the main road, On this march we were | joined by the General-in-chief, who assumed commend | of the whole, and the march continued uninterrupted | Here the enewy | The ugugement was gommenend by the 2d diviaton, } B00 Bt by ul jst under orth, amd Mee ecard whee’! wus deraohed by the giments aud Pi aa | Small parties beng fetecenat: vais j cons'aotly engaged in recenaciiring sud on picket until daybreak, this mevement was executed in good | yoards, the utmvet vigti@ace and precaution have bevu required to prevent surprice and dieaster ~The galinnt Aptain Thornton, while reconnoltring the enemy vear San Antonio on the 18th insiunt, was shot through the body by ® cannot shot, and instantly killed. His death 14 much to be regretted. On the 20th, although | had out foar companies of my brigade with me on the field, che rewainder were actively employed in the perform: voce of important and indispensable duties, Captain | dardee, while watoving the enemy with his company, ear Sau, Auguntio, was attacked by a band of guctillan| but the enemy was prompily aa? handsomely reputed, snd & number of their horses, with arms and accoutre- wmeots, captured, Iam, sir, very reapectfully, your most obedient ser. vant, WM. 8. HARNEY, Colonel cor’g cavalry brige le. Oapt. HL. Scorr, Acting Adj. Gen U. 8. Army. THE FAREWELL ADDEESS OF SANTA ANNA Hranquantens, HUaMANTLA Oot 16, 1847, The Generavin chic] of the army to hve Compansona tn lvms My Friends—When we auvivipated obtaining a tri- vmpph for the country over our invaders, according to the cembinations to which you are no strangers, und while | was exciusively ocoupted in carrying on hostili- Hes Against the euemy, a8 you welt know, watch objeot lone brought us Uns way, | received the surprising commmntowtioa of Dou Luis deli Resa, Minister ot Stats and Wor, in which he informs me that by order of his Hxocllency, the preeident of the Supreme Court of Jus- (ice, charged with the Supreme £xceutive power, by he appointinent whieh | made to iat effect in my de- cree of che 160m of last September, | am to deliver the