V '1'°' coj)s at X CONTENTS. Tampa Bay.— Expeditions.— Sickness of the Army.— Retreats of the In- dians.— Description of Florida.- The Hammock.— The Everglades.— Scott's Report.— The Manner of his Recall.— Demands a Court of In- quiry.— Meeting of the Court.— His Speech.— Opinion of the Court.— Mr. Biddle's Speech in Congress.— Scott invited to a Public Dinner in New York. — He declines. — His Letter. — Asks to command the Armj in Florida, and is refused Page 259 CHAPTER XVIII. 1837-1839. Troubles on the Niagara Frontier.— Patriot Excitement. — Attack on the Caroline.— General Scott ordered to the Niagara. — Is accompanied by Governor Marcy. — Scott's Measures. — He harangues the People.— Ex- citing Adventure with the Barcelona.— He maintains Peace.— He is complimented at Albany. — Toasts 287 CHAPTER XIX. 1838. Cherokee Controversy. — Measures for Removal. — General Scott ordered to command the Troops.- His Arrangements.— General Order.— Address to the Indians.— Enrolment for Removal.— Indian Encampment.— Scolt'i* Humane Care.— He is ordered again to the North. — Reflections. — Dr. Channing's Eulogy 299 CHAPTER XX. 1839. Scott again on the Northern Frontier.— Elaine Boundary Question. — Its Origin.— Scott's Reception by Governor Everett.— Proceedings of the State of 3Iaine.— Scott's Arrival and Reception at Augusta.— Remarks in Congress in Anticipation of War. — PJr. Van Buren's Message. — The " Memorandum."— Effect of tlie " Memorandum" in Maine.— Governor Fairfield's Message.— Resolutions of the Legislature.— Former Friend- ship of Scott and Harvey. — Interesting Anecdote. — Correspondence of Scott and Harvey. — Scott's " Memorandum." — Termination of the Diffi- culties.— Treaty made by Daniel Webster 319 CHAPTER XXL 1839 TO 1845. Scott presented for the Presidency in 1839.— Whig Convention of 1S39.— Scott's Vote.— Scott is made Commander of the Army. — His Letter in Answer to Queries.— His Letter to tiie Dayton Committee in 184-2.— His Letter on Slavery in 1843.— His Letters on the Question of Peace and War.— Biography denned.- This a Work of History.— Growth and Prospects of the American Nation 343 CONTEXTS. XI CHAPTER XXII. 1846, 1847. General Scott ordered to Mexico in May, 184G. — Correspondence with the Secretary of War. — Reasons why he did not go.— Again ordered in JVovember.— Letter of the Secretary of War.— Departs for the Brazos,— Siege and Capture ot Vera Cruz.— March of the Anny into the Interior.— Battle of Cerro Gordo.— Army enters Puebla Page 359 CHAPTER XXIII. 1846-1848. Entrance of the American Army into Puebla.— Strength of the Army. — Scott's Proclamation.— His humanity. — Mission of Trist. — Reasons for remaining at Puebla. — Reinforcements.— Drilling.— Concentration o{ the Army. — Its Divisions. — March. — Pass of Rio Frio. — Position of the Army on the 13th of August.— Reconnaissance of El Penon.— Turning of Lake Chalco.— Position of the Army on the 18th of August 393 CHAPTER XXIY. 1850. Mexican Line of Defences. — Position of the American Army.— Battle of Contreras.— Rout of the 3Iexicans.— Recapture of the BuenaVista Guns. — Battle of Churubusco. — Storm of the Tete du Pont.— Defeat of the Mexicans.— Truce.— Trist's Negotiations.— Their Failure 411 CHAPTER XXY. Description of th.e Defences of 3Iexico.— Of Molino del Rey.— Of Cha- pultepec. — Battle of Molino del Ray. — Storm of Chapultepec— Capture of Mexico. — Entrance into the City. — Scott's Address.— Insurrection of the Leperos. — Scott's Orders. — Police Regulations 438 CHAPTER XXVL Relative Loss of the American and 3Iexican Armies. — Plan of the Cam- paign.- -Its Con.sequences.— Fruits of VictorJ^ — Acquisitions of Territory. —Scott's Uniform Success.— His Sagacity.— Cass's Speech 461 CHAPTER XXVIL Scott's Ideas of Military Occupation. — His Civil Administration. — Gathers Statistics.- Reports on the Coinage.— Prepares to occupy the Countrj-.— Secret Service Fund. — His Accounts. — Military Asylum.— Correspond- ence with the Archbishop of Blexi^o. — Military Controversy.— Court of Inquiry.— Suspended from his Command,— Returns Home 475 CHAPTER XXYin. General Scott's Return. — His Reception at Nevv' York. — Arrangements of the Council. —Military Procession.— Address o^ the Mayor and Alder- men.— His Replies. — Presentation of a Medal. — Scott's Return to Wash- ington.— His public Honors.— His public and private Cliaracter 493 ApriiNDL? 515 MAP OF THE NIAGARA FRONTIER. LIFE OF GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT. CHAPTER I. Period succeeding the American Revolution. — Causes of the War of 1812. — Its effects on American Independence. — Fruits of Peace. The Life of General Winfield Scott extends over the period from the adoption of the American Constitution to the present time. It is a period memorable in events — remarkable for its social changes — splendid in the dramatic exhibition of great historical actions, and curious to the student of human nature, as a continual development of new and various forms of intellectual growth and political arrangements. It can scarcely be touched upon, even in the life of an individual, without calhng up some of those strange scenes which, in the half century succeeding the American Revolution, surprised both the actor and the beholder. Whether we dwell upon the rough incidents of war, or the gentle arts of peace, the mind will — in how- ever small a degree — recall something of the fearful shock i 14 EFFECTS OF THE REVOLUTION. which once attended the controversy of nations ; some- thing of the glory which once, wrapt in garments of blood, rolled over the battle-fields ; something of those benign inventions, which accompanied the returning chariot of commerce ; and something of the pleasant and the beauti- ful in the progress of human reformations. The war of the American Revolution did not end with the treaty of peace. The conflict of arms continued in Europe, and the clangor of battle was heard across the Atlantic, like the thunders of a retreating storm. The French Revolution succeeded the American, and carried the overthrow of government and the destruction of estab- lished institutions to such an extreme issue, that the idea of political reformation on one hand, and the dread of a fearful chang-e on the other, agitated and convulsed the populations of the civilized world. In America, the Revolution had established a just and noble independence for the once colonized subjects of England ; but it had also left them with the debt of a long war to provide for,^ with much of the spirit of insubordi- nation,^ with commerce in a great measure destroyed, and with separate states unconsolidated by national institu- tions.^ Several years elapsed before the Constitution was formed,^ and law firmly established under the happy ad- ministration of Washington. Even tlien the fires of war were not wholly extinguished. They broke out anew on the northwestern frontier, in fresh conflicts with the tribes * The public debt of the United States was, in 1791, ^75,463,467. ^ See Shay's Insurrection in Massachusetts. ' General Washington's Letter to the Governors of States, June, 1783. * TJae Constitution was formed in 1787, and went into operation on the 4th of March, 1789, six years after the peace. THE NEW PRINCIPLE OF GOVERNMENT 15 of the Ohio and the Wabash. The spirit of civilization was again encountered by the retreating warriors of bar- barism. The red chiefs of the forest parted with bitter strife from that solemn wilderness in which they so long had wandered, whose wild liberty they so long had cher- ished, whose homes and graves they so long had loved. They were impelled, if not instigated, by hopes or pro- mises of European assistance.^ The region of the Miamis was the scene of a fierce war. Battles were fought and lost by the new repubhc ; and it was not till the victory of Wayne, that the supremacy of the whites w^as estab- lished in the valley of the Ohio — its rich lands and de- lightful climate opened to the possession of emigrants — and Christian civihzation left free to fill with cities, with culti- vated fields, and humanizing arts, the broad plains and verdant vales, extending from the ridge of the Alleghanies to the Andes of the North. The Constitution of the United States of North America is at once the true basis of the American nation, and the most splendid monument to its pohtical genius. Unlike the constitutions which were subsequently formed in Europe and in some parts of America, it remains permanent. Un- like other governments also of either ancient or modern times, its principle is, the consent of the governed, and not the power of the governor. It places no restraint upon either the political action or utterance of the people. Hence their minds are free to follow, in regard to either foreign or domestic policy, the dictates of reason, or interest, or pas- sion, or prejudice ; and to pursue, wherever it may lead, that wild and fierce spirit of liberty, (as some conservative * See Washington's Letter to Mr. Jay, dated 30th August, 1794 16 NEUTRAL POLICY OF WASHINGTON. minds have thought it,) which has agitated but never dis- united the American nation. SucceedintT the formation of the American Constitution, was a rapid succession of dramatic historical acts, from whose vivid and often terrible scenes the excited imagina- tions of men can scarcely yet be withdrawn. The spirits of revolution and anti-revolution, represented in the French and English nations, struggled for mastery on the conti- nent of Europe, and moved the social waters of the Chris- tian world. They sought for allies in the bosom of every other nation. They flattered or threatened, bribed or de- stroyed, whatever other governments or nations stood in the way of their dominion. One wielded the empire of the ocean, the other that of the land. Far over the western seas, as were the United States, yet they could not wholly escape the consequences of such a collision between such mighty forces. Efforts were made to draw them into alliances on the one hand and on the other. England appealed to America by the strong argument of consanguineous kindred, and France, by ser- vices rendered in the hour of adversity, and friendships kindled in the season of youth. Both were arguments acknowledged and appeals felt, by large portions of the people of the United States. The neutral policy was, however, preferred, lest we should be involved in contro- versies alien to the republican principles of the govern- ment ; and it was further commended by the potential voice of the Father of his Country.-^ The European nations had, since the Christian era, been without any example of the permanent stability and * See "Washington's Farewell Address, and other public documents. CAUSES OF THE WAR OF 1812. 17 widely developed energies of a republic. They therefore believed the American government only the creature of temporary excitement, and its resistance to their solicita- tions merely the efforts of infantile weakness. This belief they carried into practice. The institutions of the United States were contemned. Their neutral rights were violated, and their national sovereignty, dear to every people, was attacked, insulted, and despised. In less than twenty years, occurred the insults of the French ambassador to President Washington,^ the impressment of American seamen,^ the attack on the Chesapeake,^ the British Orders in Council, and the French Berlin and Milan decrees,'* a series of wrongs and contempts, at this time almost incredible. The historian of European opin- ions has not ventured to defend them,^ but, in admitting the hard conduct of England and France to neutral nations,^ only contends that the United States had not equitably assessed the proportions of damage and outrage inflicted on them by the great aggressors in Europe!' * The appeal of Genet (the French ambassador) from the president to the people, occurred. ^ The British claimed the right of impressment (as a maritime right) daring the whole war with France. See Alison's History of Europe, second Edinburgh edition, vol. x. page 600. » June 23d, 1807. * Mr. Fox declared the coasts of France and Holland, from Brest to the Elbe, blockaded, May 16th, 1806. The Berlin decree was issued by Napoleon, Nov. 21st, 1806. The British Orders in Council were issued Nov. 11th, 1807 ; their object was to establish a paper blockade, and, under it, to confiscate neutral property. ^ See Alison's History, 82d chapter. ' See Alison. ' This is til© precise argument of Alison's History of Europe. 2 18 CLOSE OF THE SECOND WAR OF INDEPENDENCE. The people of America thought differently. They closed these scenes of contempt forever, by the war of 1812 — a war made necessary to sustain the national honor, inter- ests, and independence, against continued aggressions and undeserved contumely. It was thus the war of the American Revolution agi- tated the nations of Europe ; thus it raised up contending spirits on other continents ; and thus it revisited the shores of America long after the independence of its repub- lican states was firmly established. Its return was like the wave cast upon the beach by the agitations of a storm long passed away. These agitations did not cease till Napoleon, the lion of his age, was exiled to the rock of St. Helena ; till England had been taught to respect America; till America herself had achieved more than one glorious victory, both by land and sea ; and, in fine, till our republic had a second time vindicated its right to the dignity of a nation, and the sovereignty of a separate gov- ernment. The drama thus closed was as beneficent in its effects, as it was grand in action, and momentous in events. All the national relations of the world were changed. Gov- ernments of whatever form henceforth professed to live for the people. The change in the arts of life was no less remarkable. Where the storm of war had passed with its darkness and desolations, the peace of 1815 left its broad sunlight, and diffused its genial warmth. The refreshing verdure of spring upon hills and vales, or the ripening fruits of glori- ■ ous summer, are not more visible to the eye of the hus- bandmen, than are the fruits of' the national convulsions and controversies, which intervened between the first and FRUITS OF PEACE. 19 second American wars, to the intelligent and well-instruct- ed mind. They are visible in all the actions of civil and social life. They Spring up in the new and wonderful arts of invention ; in the increased growth of population ; in the multiplied comforts of families ; in the diifused benefits of science and literature ; and in the wide-spread power of commerce, sweeping round the earth, gathering its continual harvest, and sending forth to once unvi sited regions, the bearers of love and mercy. National courte- sies are renewed, Christian principles adopted ; and man- kind seem, at last, engaged in the happy work of bringing from the earth its richest products, and from immortal mind its noblest powers ! 20 SCOTt's parentage. EARLY CHARACTER. CHAPTER II. 1786 TO 1808. Scott's Parentage. — Education — Early Character. — Choice of a Profes- sion. — Entrance into the Army. — Political Opinions. WiNFiELD Scott was born the 13th of June, 1T86, near Petersburg, in Virginia. His descent may be traced from a Scottish gentleman of the Lowlands, who, with his- elder brother, was engaged in the Rebellion of 1745. The elder was slain on the field of Culloden. The younger, involved in the consequences of that severe disaster,' emi- grated to America, and, bringing with him little except a liberal education, commenced the practice of the law in Virginia. He married there, and was successful in his profession, but died young. His son William married Ann Mason, a lady of one of the most respectable families of Virginia. He lived a farmer by occupation, and died in 1791, leaving two sons and several daughters. The eldest of the sons was James, who commanded a regiment at Norfolk, in 1812, and the youngest Winfield, the subject of this Memoir. At the death of his father, the care of the family and the education of the children devolved upon the widow, who is reputed to have discharged her duties in the most ex- emplary manner. She died in 1803, leaving Scott, at seventeen years of age, in the very outset of active life. At this time, his character is described, by one who ADMISSION TO THE BAR. 21 well knew him, as distinctly formed. He was full of hope, and animated by a just sense of honor, and a gener- ous ambition of honest fame. His heart was open and Kmd to all the world, warm with affection towards his friends, and with no idea that he had, or deserved to have, an enemy. The particulars of his early education are not fully known ; but it seems that he was intended for one of the learned professions. He pursued the usual preparatory studies, and spent a year in the high-school at Richmond, under the teachings of Ogilvie, then quite a celebrated man. Thence, he went of his own accord to the College of William and Mary, where he remained one or two years, and attended a course of law lectures. He finished his legal studies in the office of David Robertson, a Scots- man, who had been sent out originally as a tutor in the family of Scott's maternal grandfather. He is said to have been a learned and worthy man.^ In 1806, Scott was admitted to the bar, but remained in Virginia only about a year. During this time, he rode the circuit two terms, in the vicinity of Petersburg. In the same period he resided and read much with Benja- min Watkins Leigh, Esq., since well known as one of the chief ornaments of the bar and state of Virginia. He then, and subsequently, enjoyed the advice and instruction of this able counsellor — an advantage and obligation he has ever been ready to acknowledge. In the autumn of 1807, he emigrated to South Carolina, ^ He was reporter of the debates in the Convention of Virginia, called to consider the adoption of the Federal Constitution ; and also of the pro- ceedings on the trial of Aaron Burr. 22 APPROACH OF A WAR. intending to practise law in the courts of Charleston. For this purpose he passed through Columbia, the seat of government, to procure from the legislature a special ex- emption from the general law requiring practitioners to have a year's residence in the state. It passed one house, but failed, from want of time,' in the other. This defeated his intention of immediate practice in Charleston, and not improbably turned the current of his life. Disengaged from business, the pf^ical events of his country, then rapidly moving to a crisis, soon transferred him to another and a more active and brilliant scene. It was just at this period, that the aggressions of the European powers, especially England, on the commerce of the United States, had reached their height, and inspired the youth of the nation with martial feelings. A spirit of resistance was excited, and, to discerning eyes, not a few indications of war were visible. In this spirit of patriotism and of indignant resent- ment for wrongs endured, Scott largely shared. We have seen that he was then hopeful, ambitious, and emu- lous of fame. Thus he combined in his character the ele- ments of a patriot soldier. In the summer of 1807, he had specially volunteered, as a member of a Petersburg troop of horse, that had been called out under the proclamation of the president, forbid- ding the harbors of the United States to British vessels of war. This was in consequence of the attack on the frig- ate Chesapeake. Their station was near Lynnhaven Bay, and their duty soon over. On his return to the north, after his visit to Charleston, the country was in the midst of the political excitements which attended renewed difficulties with England, and SHALL ENGLAND OR FRANCE BE ATTACKED ? 23 the enactment of the embargo law.^ In the winter of 1807-8, a bill was introduced into Congress for the en- largement of the army, and Scott, like many others of his young countrymen, applied for a commission in the new regiments about to be raised. The bill lingered, however, in Congress, and the prospect of war diminished. Scott, impatient at the want of decision in the public councils, and dissatisfied with his own want of employment, re- turned to his circuit. The augmentation of the army, not- withstanding the delay, took place. The law was passed in .April, and in May, 1808, he became, through the in- fluence of his friend and neighbor, the Hon. William B. Giles, a captain of light artillery. " The war, however, to which so many of the warm spirits of the country looked forward, was not yet to take place. It was one of the singular results of party spirit, that the nation found it diflicult to choose the object of its hostility. It could not be denied, that both England and France had done enough against the neutral commerce of the United States to excite the just resentment of any in- dependent nation, but the sympathies of the people were divided between the French and English parties in the great continental war. It was then too little felt that the republic of the United States was itself a great nation, to which the controversies of Europe were entirely foreign, and to whose views, interests, and principles, those of ev- ery other people were dissimilar, if not antagonistic. It was urged by those who sympathized with England, that France was the ascOTessor in the attacks on neutral com- ^ The embargo was enacted in the close of 1807, and the non-mter- coiirse act, 1st of March, 1808. 24 OPINIONS OF SCOTT. merce, and by those who sympathized with France, that England had committed other and greater wrongs. The controversy is still kept up in the volumes of respectable historians.-^ There was one claim, however, set up by England, which, in spite of French confiscations,^ cast the balance greatly against England. It was the claim to search the ships and impress the seamen of neutral nations — a right which she claimed ''under the common maritime laws of nations," and which, but for American resistance, she would have continued to exercise, and be, in fact,^ the mistress of the seas. It was under the pressure of acts and claims so utterly hostile to the interests and dignity of the United States, that the American nation, with an executive averse to war,"* and a policy entirely peaceful, were finally induced to take up arms against Great Britain. In the political contro- versies of this exciting period, Scott was, in his opinions and acts, with the Democratic party. He was educated, believed, and acted, according to the political principles of Mr. Jefferson. He supported the election of Mr. Madison to the presidency, and, from the attack on the Chesapeake to the declaration of war, he was an approver, a supporter, and a writer in favor, of war measures. ^ See the 82d chapter of Alison's History. ' The French confiscated at Antwerp, and many other places, enor- mous amounts of American property, which was sold for the benefit of the French military chest ! ' The claim amounted to a claim to absolute dominion. * Mr. Madison was very averse to war, if it could be avoided. CAUSES OF THE PURCHASE OF LOUISIANA. 25 CHAPTER III. 1808 TO 1812. Scott is transferred to Louisiana. — His Persecution by Wilkinson. — Is tried by a Court Martial and suspended. — Pursues his Military Studies. — Acts as Judge Advocate. The purchase of Louisiana imposed upon the govern- ment of the United States the necessity of its defence. The Mississippi disemboguing itself into the Gulf of Mexico, after traversing more than four thousand miles of fertile valleys, its mouth became one of the most impor- tant commercial points in America or in the world. The vast importance of that point to the numerous rivers, to the broad alluvial plains, and to the millions of people who should, in after-time, live upon them,^ had been foreseen by wise men, and caused the purchase of that territory, to secure the growth of the West, the navigation of its rivers to the ocean, the defence of the frontier, and the permanency of the Union. The sa- gacity of the purchase all history will now admit. Since the days of Alexander no more valuable addition has been made to the possessions of any nation, by the con- quests of war, or the arts of negotiation. This peace- ful acquisition was to the United States a more solid , * Beyond doubt, the territory acquired by the purchase of Louisiana, will maintain and must soon h:ive one hundred millions of people 2 26 SCOTT IS ORDERED TO NEW ORLEANS. property and a more durable laurel, than any acquired by the victories of the Roman Casar. When the difficulties arose with Great Britain, it was apprehended that a sudden invasion of Louisiana might be made, and under this apprehension a military force was kept there, under the command of General Wilkin- son. In 1809, Scott was ordered to New Orleans, and joined the army there. He was then a captain of light artillery, at only twenty-three years of age, frank, ardent^ and bold. It was not at all surprising, then, that he should express his opinions with freedom, or that such freedom should sometimes be ill received by others. This was the case in a difficulty which soon after ensued between Scott and Wilkinson. The origin of this difficulty was in the connection of the latter with the trial and intrigues of Burr. Scott had witnessed the development of these transactions at Rich mond, before he joined the army, and thought the conduct of his present commander doubtful. Wilkinson made several unsuccessful effi^rts to win him to his purposes, as " a young man who could speak, and write, and fight" • — qualifications for w^hich he had almost daily occasions. Having failed to gain the confidence of Scott, the general seems to have been determined to force him out of the service by continued persecutions. Scott's frankness, frequently pushed to indiscretion, soon gave the general a favorable opportunity of striking the meditated blow. Circumstances which afterwards occurred, brought on a crisis. The discipline of the Mississippi army became much impaired. The camp established in June, 1809, a little below New Orleans, became as many had foreseen, very sickly. A large part of the army perished. The THE COURT MARTIAL. 27 survivors were transferred to a new camp near Natchez ; and Wilkinson w^as ordered to the seat of government, to undergo an investigation into his conduct. In the win- ter of 1809-10, General Hampton took the command in the South, but Wilkinson still remained in the neigh- borhood. The fact that Wilkinson was not then in command, caused Scott to think he might indulge in censures of that officer, without violating the rules of military service. Accordingly he was quite free in discussing the conduct of his late commander, who was soon made acquainted with the criticisms of the young captain of artillery, and, as the result showed, deeply offended. Scott was arrest- ed, and tried by a court martial on two charges. The first was substantially, that of withholding the men's money placed in his possession for their payment, for two months, and withholding it intentionally. The second was unofficer-like conduct, in using disi^e- spectful language towards his superior officer, in violation of the 6th Article of War, which says, that " any officer who shall behave himself with contempt and disrespect to- wards his commanding officer, shall be punished, accord- ing to the nature of the offence, by the judgment of a court martial." The ffi'st of these charges (substantially that of em- bezzlement) Scott indignantly denied ; but the second, that of " disrespectful language," he acknowledged, and boldly undertook to justify. The trial took place at Wash- ington, near Natchez, in January, 1810. The result was, that the court acquitted him of all fraudulent intention in de- taining the iiioney of his men ; but convicted him under the second charge of unofficer-hke conduct, (for using disre- 28 CHARGES AND SPECIFICATIONS. spectful language towards Ins commanding officer,) and sentenced him to suspension from rank, pay, and emolu- ments for one year.^ ^ As this trial and cliarges may possibly be misunderstood, we have ob- tained an authenticated abstract of the Record, in regard to the findings and sentence against Captain Scott. On the specifications not quoted, he was fully acquitted. Charge 1. — " Conduct unbecoming an ofiicer and a gentleman." 1. Specification. — " In v^ithholding at sundry times men's money placed in his possession for their payment, for the months of Sep- tember and October." 2. Specification. — (Acquitted.) Charge II. — And Specifications. — (Acquitted.) Charge III. — (Additional.) — " Ungentlemanly and unofficer-like con- duct." 1. Specification. — " In saying, between the first of December and the first of January, 1809-10, at a public table, in Washington, (Mississippi Territory,) that he never saw but two traitors, General Wilkinson and Burr, and that General Wilkinson was a liar and a scoundrel." 2. Specification. — (Acquitted.) Finding and Sentence. I. " Guilty of the first specification of the first charge, and pronounce his conduct unofficer-like. (Not un gentlemanly.) 2."The court acquit the prisoner of the second charge and specification. 3."The court find the prisoner guilty of the first specification of the ad- ditional charge, but not guilty of the second specification ; and pronounce his conduct unofficer-like ; and sentence him to be suspended from all rank, pay, and emoluments, for the space of twelve months. But the Court have no hesitation in acquitting the prisoner of all fraudulent intentions in detaining the pay of his men. — The Court adjourned. " * * The court met pursuant to adjournment, and recommended to the general the remission of nine months of Captain Scott's suspension." (Signed,) "H. Russell, Colonel of the 7th infantry, president. "William King, Lieutenant of infantry, judge advocate. Wilkinson's connection with burr. 29 Whatever may be thought of this transaction, there is one fact connected with the general history of the coun- try, which should be here remembered. All who are fa- miliar with the popular feeling of the country at that period, know that it ran very strongly against Burr, and all who were supposed, directly or indirectly, connected with him. Wilkinson was supposed, (whether justly or not,) to have been in some way implicated. It was this feeling, — pa- triotic in its basis, — which Scott shared, and which urged him subsequently to the use of indiscreet words. The facts in regard to the first charge (that of retaining money) appear to have been these : Prior to his departure for New Orleans, he had recruited his company in the interior of Virginia. While there,. remote from commis- saiy, paymaster, or quarter-master, and without advice or experience, a small sum of money (about $400) was placed in his hands for the service of his company. Some of the receipts taken for payments were irregular, and at the time of his trial, a small part of this small sum (about $50) was uncovered hj formal vouchers. The court so found, but expressly acquitted him of all " fraudulent in- tentions." In fact, he had been charged with all he re- ceived at the treasury, where nothing could be received as a credit, except in the shape of a formal voucher. Thus terminated what, at the time, was a vexatious proceeding to Captain Scott ; but which, Ave shall pres- ently see, w^as really advantageous to him. The only matter the court had seriously found against him, was an indiscretion in w^ords, and that, too, originating in an ex- cess of patriotism. The trial w^as very far from producing an unfavorable effect on the public mind ; for he was soon after complimented by a public dinner, given by many 30 scott's employment of his leisure. officers and citizens of the neighborhood, and followed by the good wishes of all to whom he was personally known. It may not be out of place to remark, that General Wilkinson first published his attack on the fame of Scott, immediately after the close of the late w^ar. Whether it was prompted by a comparison of his entire failure in the campaign of 1813, and the disgraceful defeat at La Cole Mills in the following spring, with the brilliant achieve- ments on the Niagara frontier, in which Scott bore so con- spicuous a part, or whether it was the result of a long-cher ished purpose of revenge, is not material to inquire. The public have the facts, and can draw their own conclusions Scott returned to Virginia, somewhat at a loss what to do in the 3^ear of his suspension. He there met again his friend, B. Watkins Leigh, Esq., who advised him to employ his leisure time in the diligent study of such works on tlie military art, as would be most useful to him in his profes sion, especially such as taught the principles of the art. He also offered him the use of. his house and library. Scott accepted the invitation, and remained at the house of Mr. Leigh near a year, pursuing his studies wdth such ardor and diligence, that the sentence of suspension was probably one of the fortunate events of his life. Scott was continually of opinion, with other intelligent men, that war with Great Britain must break out ; and hence, while pursuing his studies at Mr. Leigh's, his great anxiety was, lest it should break out while he was under suspension. This, however, was not the case ; and he had an opportunity to resume his place in the army, better prepared for the duties of his profession, before active hostilities were commenced. In March, 1812, he acted as judge advocate upon the HE ACTS AS JUDGE ADVOCATE. 31 trial of Col. C . A report of this trial was afterwards published, and it is said that his management of the in- vestigation, and his replication to the defence, afforded honorable proofs of his legal talents and acquisitions. mi ■■■"Sim WW r- ■^'"- -^ -.viUift .^g-/' CONGRESS DECLARES WAR. 33 CHAPTER TV. 1812. Commencement of the War. — State of the Niajrara Frontier. — Scott joins the Army on the Niagara Frontier, and aids in a gallant enterprise. — Battle of Queenstown Heights. — Flag of Truce. — Surrender. — Scott'a singular adventure with two Indian Chiefs. — Funeral of Brock. The aggressions committed by the English nation, though unavenged, were not forgotten. Still, the Ameri- can people long cherished the hope that a sense of justice would induce the British ministry to bring to a speedy and honorable termination the unfortunate differences subsist- ing between the two nations. They were unwilling to re- sort to the ultimate means of redress until all peaceful measures had been exhausted ; and, indeed, so tardy was the government in preparations for war, that the people, in many parts of the country, loudly complained of its want of firmness and energy. But delay brought no redress. Injury was followed by indignity, until the peaceful policy of the government at length yielded, and on the 18th of June, 1812, war was formally declared against Great Brit- ain and its dependencies, by the Congress of the United States. Previous to that date,^ General Hull, in anticipation of that event, had been appointed to the command of a nu- ^ Hull was appointed to the command of the northwestern army some time in May. 2 34 hull's expedition and surrender. merous and well-furnished army,^ intended for the invasion of Canada, from some point near Detroit. This army passed Cincinnati the latter part of May, left Dayton on the 1st of June, arrived on the Maumee River on the 30th, and crossed the River of Detroit, for the invasion of Can- ada, on the 12th of July. The expedition was attended with the high hopes of the people, the officers, and the men. It was opposed by no superior force, and when in front of the enemy, no sound of discontent was heard, nor any appearance of cowardice or disaffection seen. On the contrary,-every man awaited the battle in sure anticipation of victory, expecting a proud day for his country and him- self." Notwithstanding all this preparation, notwithstanding the superiority of the force, and notwithstanding these vivid anticipations of success and glory, the entire army was, without apparent cause, surrendered to the demand of General Brock, on the 14th of August. This event, so unexpected and so disastrous, filled the American people with confusion and mortification. No one, wdio does not remember the appearance and conver sation of the people at that time, can form a correct idea of the mournful effect produced by the surrender of Hull. Indignation, grief, and shame, alternate^ filled the hearts of the honest citizen and the patriot soldier. It was a veil of darkness drawn over the face of the country. Such was the commencement of the war of 1812, un- ^ The army was composed of the 4th regiment of infantry, who had borne the brunt of the battle on the field of Tippecanoe ; a part of the 1st regiment of infantry ; three companies of the 1st artillery ; three regi- ments of volunteers from Ohio, of which two companies were from Cin- cinnati ; and the Michigan militia. ^ See Cass's Letter, dated 10th of September. ATTACK ON TWO ARMED BRIGS. 35 toiitrfnate, disastrous, and melancholy. It was certainly no encouras^ement to those who soon after commenced the campaigns of the Niagara, where bloody fields, brave actions, and positive achievement, reanimated the hopes of the country, and gave a durable glory to the American arms. In republican governments, the people are naturally jealous of militaiy power. They regard large standing armies with distrust, and are reluctant to resort to them even for defence, until the peril is imminent. Hence, the commencement of a national conflict will generally be disastrous. The spirit of the people must be aroused by a sense of danger, and the feeling of national honor must be awakened before their energies can be turnedfrom the chan- nels of productive labor, and exerted on the field of war. In July, 1812, Scott received the commission of Heu- tenant-colonel in the 2d artillery, (Izard's regiment,) and arrived on the Niagara frontier, with the companies of Towson and Barker. He took post at Black Rock, to protect the navy-yard there established. Lieutenant Elliott of the navy had planned an enter- prise against two British armed brigs, then lying at anchor under the guns of Fort Erie. For this purpose, he applied on the 8th of October, 1812, to Colonel Scott, for assist- ance in officers and men. Captain Towson, and a portion of his company, were dispatched to the aid of Elhott The attack was successful. On the morning of the 9th, both vessels were carried in the most gallant manner, The " Adams" was taken by Captain Elhott in person, assisted by Lieutenant Isaac Roach ;^ and the " Caledo- nia" by the gallant Captain Towson. In dropping down Mr. Roach has since been mayor of Philadelphia. 36 TKl tlie Niagara River, the *' Adams" became unmanageable, through the occurrence of a calm, and drifted into the British channel. She got aground on Squaw Island, di- rectly under the guns of the enemy's batteries, where it was impossible to get her off. Captain Elliott, therefore, having previously secured the prisoners, abandoned her under a heavy fire from the British shore. Then ensued an interesting and exciting scene, the British endeavoring to retake the abandoned brig, and Colonel Scott to pre- vent them. The enemy sent off boats, and Scott resisted them, in which effort he was successful. The brig was recaptured, and held until she was subsequently burned, by order of General Smythe, who had then arrived. As for the '' Caledonia," she was preserved by the ex- traordinary efforts of Captain (now General) Towson, and afterwards did good service in the memorable and glorious victory won on Lake Erie, by the gallant Perry. This was one of those small but honorable enterprises, of which many occurred during the war, w^hich should be mentioned to the credit of the actors, and as an example to those who hereafter may have similar duties to perform in defence of their country. In the beginning of October, 1812, Major-General Stephen Van Rensselaer had collected together, at Lewis- town, about two thousand five hundred of the New York militia. The successful enterprise which resulted in the capture of the "Adams" and " Caledonia," on the 8th of that month, had given such an. apparent aitlor and impulse to these troops, that it was believed impossible to restrain "m,^ Indeed, the troops declared they must act, or go ^^ral Van Rensselaer's Letter, 14th October, 1812. PLAN OF THE ATTACK ON QUEENSTOWN. 37 home, an alternative which imposed upon the general the necessity of some active movement. Accordingly, he planned an attack on Queenstown Heights, The troops which he had at his command were the New York militia, and about four hundred and fifty regulars under the command of Colonels Fenwdck and Chrystie, Avho, with Major Muilaney, had arrived the night before, in detachments, from Fort Niagara, for the purpose of joining in this expedition. The militia were raw, inex- perienced, and undisciplined, circumstances which caused the brunt of the battle ultimately to fall on tlie regulars, and its final loss.^ The object of the movement was to dispossess the ene my from the fort and village of Queenstown Heights, and thus to make a lodgment for the American troops on the Canada shore, the invasion of Canada being then the leading object of the northern campaign. The plan was, to throw over the river two columns of troops, each about three hundred strong.^ One was commanded by Colonel Solomon Van Rensselaer, and the other by Lieutenant- Colonel Chiystie. The detachments of Fenwick and Muilaney were to sustain, in the best way they could, these columns. These arrangements were made on the 12th of October. Late in the evening of that day, Colonel Scott had arrived, by a forced march, partly by water, and partly through mud and rain, at Schlosser, one mile from the Falls and eight from Lewistown, with the view of joining in the contemplated attack. He hastened to Lewistown, and volunteered his services to General Van Rensselaer. They were declined, on account of the ar- ' General Van Rensselaer's Report, 14th October, 1812. "■' Idem 3* 38 CROSSING OF.THE TROOPS. rangements already made ; but, not without permission, that Scott should bring his regiment immediately to Lewistown, and there act as circumstances might require, or opportunities offer. This permission he at once availed himself of, and arrived with his corps, at four A. M.'on the 13th. Finding no boats, he placed his train in bat- tery on the American shore, under the immediate com- mand of Captains Towson and Barker, and when daylight appeared, opened an effective fire on the enemy. In the mean time, the principal movement, as originally planned, had gone on. All the boats which could be collected were employed to transport the columns of Chrystie and Van Rensselaer. Unfortunately, the boats were insufficient to take the whole number at once, and the passage was made by detachments.^ The boat in which Chrystie was, became partially disabled, was mis- managed by the pilot,^ and finally carried out of the way by the eddies of the river. He made a gallant attempt to land, but was w^ounded, and compelled to return to the American shore. In the after part of the engagement, he returned with reinforcements to the troops in Canada, and shared the fate of the day.^ The main body of the first embarkation, under the di- rection of Colonel Van Rensselaer, was more successful. Two companies of the 13th regiment,'* with other small detachments of the same regiment, were able to land, and were successively reinforced, from time to time, as the few serviceable boats to be had could transport them. They were landed under a severe fire of the enemy. ' Chrystie's Letter, dated 22d of Februarj^ 1813. ' Idem. » Idem. * Armstrong's Notices of the War GALLANTRY OF CAPTAIN WOOL. 39 At this time the numbers of both contending parties were small. The British force was composed of two flank companies of the 49ih, and the York militia. The Americans did not number much over one hundred com- batants.^ Notwithstanding the continued cannonade from the enemy's batteries, this small force formed on the bank, and marched steadily forward. In a few moments, this fire had killed or wounded every commissioned officer, and among these, Colonel Van Rens- selaer himself, who received four severe wounds.^ Not- withstanding this, he sustained himself long enough ta impart the local information he possessed to other offi- cers, who had in the mean while come up.^ In leaving the field, his last command was, that " all such as could move should immediately mount the hill and storm the batteries."* This order was promptly obeyed by Captain (now General) Wool, who greatly distinguished himself, with Captains Ogilvie, Malcolm, and Armstrong, and Lieutenant Randolph. These brave officers stormed the heights, took a battery composed of an eighteen-poundei and two mortars, half way up the acclivity, and were soon in possession of the highest point, called the " Moun- tain." At this point of time, the enemy were beaten, routed, and driven into a strong stone building near the water's edge.^ Here the fugitives were rallied and suc- cored by General Brock, the lieutenant-governor of Upper Canada, who had returned from the capture of Hull to * General Van Rensselaer's Letter, 14th October, 1812. ^ Idem. * Reinforcements in small detachments continued to arrive in boat* loads. * Armstrong's Notices of the War. * Idem. 40 GENEROUS CONDrCT OF GEN. WADSWORTH. defend the Niacrara frontier.^ Here was his last act of o gallantry. He fell, at the head of the troops he was lead- ing to the charge, and with him, his secretary, Colonel McDonald. The British troops were again dispersed, and for a time there was a pause in the action of the day. Exactly at this period, Lieutenant-colonel Scott arrived on the heights. He had been permitted, as a volunteer, to cross the river with his adjutant. Roach, and assume the command of the whole body engaged. On the Cana- da side, he unexpectedly found Brigadier-general William Wadsworth" of the New York militia, who had crossed without orders. Scott, therefore, proposed to limit his command to the regulars. But the generous and patri- otic Wadsworth would not consent. He promptly yielded the command over all the forces to Scott. " You, sir," said he, " know best professionally w^hat ought to be done. I am here for the honor of my country, and that of the New York militia." Scott, therefore, assumed the command, and, throughout the movements which ensued, General Wadsworth dared every danger in aiding the views of the commander. Though they had met for the first time, he had become already attached to the young colonel. He repeatedly, during the battle, interposed his own person to shield Scott from the Indian rifles, which his tall person attracted. Reinforcements having arrived during the previous en- gagements, the forces under Scott now amounted, in all, to three hundred and fifty regulars, and two hundred and ^ Hull surrendered on the 15th of August. Brock reluraed to Niagara on the 25th. ' Recently of Genesee, and now dead. SCOTT IN COMMAND. 41 fifty volunteers, under the direction of General Wads- worth and Colonel gtranahan. These, Scott, assisted by the judgment of Captain Tottcn,^ drew up in a strong and commanding situation. The object in view was not only to receive the enemy, but to cover the ferry, in expecta- tion of being reinforced by the whole of the militia at Lewistown. The interval of rest was but short. The first gun which broke the silence of the morning, had also roused the British garrison of Fort George, eight miles below. Their troops were instantly put in motion. The Indians, who had been concentrated in the neighborhood, sprang into activity. In a short time, five hundred of these forest warriors joined the British light companies previous- ly engaged. A new battle ensued. The Americans re- ceived the enemy wath firmness, and drove them back in total route. Colonel Chrystie, who had then returned to the Canada shore, states,^ that he there found Lieutenant- colonel Scott leading and animating his troops, with a gallantry which could not be too highly extolled. The protection of the ferry being the main purpose, and the Indians in the wood presenting no object for a charge, the Americans resumed their original position,^ and there maintained it valiantly against several succes- sive attacks, till the British reinforcements arrived from Fort George. In one of these affairs, the advanced pic- quets of the American line were suddenly driven in by superior numbers, and a general massacre seemed inevit- able. At this critical moment, Scott, who had been in * Now Colonel, and chief of the corps of engineers. « Chrystie's Letter, 22d February, 1813. ' Idem. 42 THE LINE BROUGHT TO THE RIGHT-ABOUT. the rear, showing how to unspike a captured cannon, hastily returned, and by great exertions brought his Hne, in the act of giving way, to the right-about. His brilhant example produced a sudden revulsion of feeling. They caught the spirit of their leader. With a unanimous burst of enthusiasm, the line suddenly rallied from right to left, threw itself forward upon the enemy, putting him to a precipitate flight, and strewing the ground with the dead and the wounded. In this manner successive con- flicts were kept up, till the main body of the British rein- forcements arrived. This was a column eight hundred and fifty strong, under the command of Major-general Sheaffe.i During the action, which had now so long proceeded with credit to the American troops, the militia who had crossed the river, and were engaged with Wadsworth and Stranahan, had fought well, and shared both the dangers and the successes of the day. At this crisis, however, when the result of the battle depended entirely upon re- inforcements, information was brought to Scott and those engaged, that the militia on the American shore refused to cross ! General Van Rensselaer rode among them, in all directions, urging the men by every consideration to pass, but in vain.^ Not a regiment nor a company could be induced to move ! A panic had seized them ; but even had it been otherwise, they could not have crossed, as but a few crippled boats remained to take them over.^ ^ Since Sir Roger SheafFe, made a baronet for the events of that day. ^ General Van Rensselaer's Letter to General Dearborn, October 14th, 1812. ' This was the original error of the expedition. The total number of boats is said in the accounts, to have been but thirteen. A SPEECH ON THE FIELD OF BATTLE. 43 Severe was the mortificalion of this disaster to the Drave men engaged, and mournful the result ! At this period, the British force was estimated, regu- lars, militia, and Indians, at not less than thirteen hundred, while the Americans were reduced to less than three hundred.^ Retreat was as hopeless as succor ; for there were no boats on the Canada shore, and the militia on the other side refused to give them aid. Scott took his position on the ground they then occupied, resolved to abide the shock, and think of surrender only when battle was impossible. He mounted a log in front of his much- diminished band : " The enemy's balls," said he, "begin to thin our ranks. His numbers are overwhelming. In a moment the shock must come, and there is no retreat. We are in the beginning of a national war. Hull's sur- render is to be redeemed. Let us then die, arms in hand. Our country demands the sacrifice. The example will not be lost. The blood of the slain will make heroes of the living. Those who follow will avenge our fall and their country's wrongs. Who dare to stand ?" " All !" was the answering cry. In the meanwhile, the British, under the command of Major-General SheaiTe, manceuvred with great caution, and even hesitation,^ conscious of the vigorous resistance already made, and determined fully to reconnoitre. They found it difficult to believe that so small a body of men was the whole force they had to contend with, and sup- posed it rather an outpost than an army. At length, the attack began. The Americans for a time maintained their resolution, but finally began to give way. When nearly * See Chrystie's Letter. " Idem. 44 THE FLAG OF TRUCE. surrounded, they let themselves, (by holding on to limbs and bushes,) down the precipice to the river. Resistance was now ended, and aftei* a brief consultation, it was de- termined to send a flag to the enemy, with a proposition to capitulate. Several persons were successively sent, but neither answer nor messenger returned ; they were all shot down, or captured by the Indians. At length, Scott determined that be himself would make another at- tempt. He prepared a flag of truce — a white handker- chief fastened upon his sword — and accompanied by Cap- tains Totten and Gibson, went forth, on a forlorn hope, to seek a parley. Keeping close to the water's edge, and under cover of the precipice as much as possible, they descended along the river. They were exposed to a con- tinual random fire from the Indians, until they turned up an easy slope to gain the road from the village to the heights They had just attained this road, w^hen they were met by two Indians, who sprang upon them. It was in vain that Scott declared his purpose, and claimed the protection of his flag. They attempted to wrench it from his hands, and at the same instant Totten and Gibson drew their swords. The Indians had just discharged their rifles at the American ofiicers, and were on the point of using their knives and hatchets, when a British oflicer, accompanied by some men, rushed forward, and prevent- ed a further combat. The three American ofiicers were conducted into the presence of General SheafTe ; terms of capitulation were agreed on, and Scott surrendered his whole force with the honors of war.^ ^ The entire force thus surrendered, of those who had been actually fighting, were 139 reguhirs, and 154 miiitia, making in all 293. -^^^ A MARK FOR THE RIFLES. 45 To his intense chagrin and mortification, the number of prisoners was soon swelled by several Imndreds of mi- litia, who had crossed to the Canada shore, and in the confusion of the moment, had concealed themselves un- der the rocks higher up the river, and were not in the slightest degree engaged in the action of the day.^ Throughout this scene of various action, of mistake and misfortune, of success and disaster, Lieutenant-Colo- nel Scott, — says an accurate account," — was distinguish- ed for great exertions. He was in full-dress uniform, and his tall stature made him a conspicuous mark.^ He was singled out by the Indians, but remained unliurt. He was urged to change his dress. *' No," said he, smihng, " I will die in my robes." At the same moment Captain Lawrence fell by his side, as it was supposed, mortally wounded. Thus ended the battle of Queenstown Heights : an en- gagement desultory in its movements, various in its inci- dents, and unfortunate in its result ; but not without con- sequences important to the spirit and vigor of the Ameri- can arms. Magnitude is not always necessary to the dignity of an achievement, nor is defeat always discour- aging to the unsuccessful party. It is the nature of the action which gives character to the actor. Judged by this ^ The total loss of the Americans in the battle of Queenstown, was estimated at 1000 men. About 100 were killed, 200 who had landed with Major Mullaney early in the day, were forced by the current of the river on the enemy's shores under his batteries, and were there captured. 293 surrendered with Scott, and the residue were those who had landed, but were not in the battle. ' Niles's Register, 3d volume, page 170. ' General Scott is about six feet five inches in height, and of com- manding stature. 46 THE MEMORY OF QUEENSTOWN. Standard, tlie events of Queenstown had their vakie, and tlieir inspiration to every patriot American. Hull had surrendered without a battle ; disgrace, not from the mere disaster, but from the mode by which it was produced, was inflicted upon the country, and felt in the hearts of its children. It was battle, and honorable battle only, which could drive this gloomy shadow from the country, check the taunts of enemies, remove its own doubts, and re-establish its self-respect. The battle of Queenstown Heights did this in no small degree. While the mistakes, the errors, and the losses of that day were deplored, the American press and people^ recognised, amid regrets and misfortunes, a spirit of achievement, a boldness in dan- ger, and a gallant bearing, which inspired new hopes, and pointed out the way to ultimate success. The daring gal- lantry of Colonel Van Rensselaer; the capture of the British battery by Wool and his heroic companions ; the intrepid conduct of Wadsworth, of Chrystie, of Totten, and many others, and particularly the courage, skill, and continued activity and exertions of Scott, had given a cheerfulness even to the darkness of defeat, and almost a glow of satisfaction to the memory of Queenstown Heights. After the surrender, the prisoners were escorted to the village now called Niagara, at the mouth of the river, where the officers were lodged in an inn, and placed un- der guard. The sentinel had received orders to suffer no prisoner to pass out, but not otherwise to restrain their motions. In a little while, a message came that some one wished to speak with the "tall American." Scott passed through several doors into the entry. He was surprised ^ 3d volume Niles's Register, page 170. THE ''tall AMERICAN." 47 to find in his visitors the same two Indians, hideously painted as in battle, who had sprung upon him while he was bearing the flag of truce. The elder, tall and strong, was the distinguished chief known by the name of Cap- tain Jacobs. The other was a young man of fine figure, and only inferior in muscular development. In broken English, and by gestures, the prisoner was questioned as to his shot-marks : the Indians severally holding up their fingers to indicate the times their rifles had been levelled at him.-^ Jacobs grew warm, and seized Scott by the arm to turn him round to see his back. Indignant at this manual liberty, the American threw the savage from him, exclaiming, " Off", villain ! You fired like a sq^iiaw !" "We kill you now !" was the angry reply, loosening from their girdles at the same instant knives and tomahawks. There was no call for help ; none could have arrived in time ; and flight would have been, in the opinion of such soldiers as Scott, dastardly. In a corner, of the entiy, under the staircase, stood the swords of the American officers, Avhich, according to the customs of war, they had been desired to lay aside on their arrival. A long sabre, in a heavy steel scabbard, as readily drawn as grasped, lay on the outside of the stack. A spring swiftly to the rear, and another back upon the foe, brought the American, with blade hung in air, to an attitude of defiance. A second lost — a quiver — or an error of the eye, would have ended this story, and left no further room to the biographer of the " tall American." Of one of his assailants Scott was absolutely sure ; but that he would fall by the hands of the other before the sword could be again poised, seemed ^ 3d volume Niles's Register, page 170. 48 A POSITION OF DANGER. equally certain. He had the advantage of position — standing on the defensive, in a narrow entiy, just within the foot of the staircase. It was a pass that could not be turned. The savages were held without, in the wider space, near the front door, but manoeuvring like tigers to close upon their pre^^ The parties were thus terribly grouped, when a British officer, entering from the street, and seeing what impended, cried, " The guard T and at the same moment seized Jacobs by the arm, and put a pistol to the head of his companion. Scott held his blade ready to descend in aid of his gallant deliverer, now turned upon by his foes. The sentinels obeyed the call they had heard, and came in, with bayonets forward. The Indians were marched off, muttering imprecations on all white men, and all the laws of war. The younger of these In- dian chiefs was the son of the celebrated Brant, of the Revolutionary war, whose life h^l^ecently been given to the public by the late ColriJA^. L. Stone. The officer who so opportunely entered, on a visit of courtes}^, was Captain Coffin, theivin the staff of General Sheaffe, and now of high rank in the British army. This adventure he frequently narrated, both in New York and on the other side of the Atlantic. The exasperation of the Indians against Colonel Scott was occasioned by the number of their people killed on Queenstown Heights ; and their excitement was so great, that while he remained at Niagara he could not leave his inn, even to dine with Sir Roger Sheaffe, without a Brit- ish escort. Soon after the surrender, the gallant Brock was buried under one of the bastions of Fort St. George, with the highest of military honors. Fort Niagara, directly oppo- HONORS TO A GALLANT FOE. 49 site on the American shore, was commanded at the time by Captain McKeon.^ Colonel Scott sent over his compli- ments, and desired that minute-guns might be fired during the funeral ceremonies. Captain McKeon readily com- pKed with the request ; for the noble qualities of Brock had been held in equal esteem on both sides of the line. It is one of the privileges which smooth the rough brow of war, thus to render a just respect to the worthy dead, whether they be of friends or adversaries. It is the right of magnanimity to carry no hostility beneath the green covering of the grave, nor beyond that line which peace has drawn between noble spirits that once were foes, nor against those generous quahties which dignify the man and adorn the race. * Father of the Hon. John McKeon, late a member of Congress from the city of New York. 3 60 PRINCIPLES OF THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER V. 1812. Reflections on the Principles of the American Government. — The Cap- tured Irishmen. — Scott's interference in their behalf. — Their joyful inter- view with him. — His efforts with the Government. — Letter of Lord Bathurst. — Mr. Monroe's Report. — Mr. Hanson's Speech. — Reflections on the whole The republic of the United States was founded on the two principles of Liberty and Christianity. Liberty had been asserted by the republics of Greece, and Chris- tianity had for eighteen centuries maintained its existence. But a liberty professing to be founded on the rights of the people, and a Christianity not united with the state, were never before co-existent and moving together, harmonious among one people, and under one government — in the history of mankind. It was a moral glory — of full- orbed light, which had never before risen on the broad horizon of human hopes. It was, therefore, peculiar in its essential being. This peculiarity penetrated its very nature, was visible in all its operations, and con- stitutes a continual contrast with all other nations. In the same manner and for the same reason, whether in war or peace, the negotiations of the American govern- ment often contain points of discussion, raised by the na- ture of its republican principles, w^hich are little under- stood in Europe, and still less assented to by European THE RIGHT OF EXPATRIATION. 51 governments. In that part of American history now con- sidered, some of these points arose and were discussed. The battle of Queenstown Heights gave rise to one of these discussions, an account of which, therefore, chrono- logically, belongs to that event. The question debated was the right of expatriation ; that is, whether a citizen of one country has a right to leave that country and at- tach himself to another, without the consent of the law ? This question, considered as an abstract principle, is not new. It has been debated ever since any principles at all were applied to the intercourse of nations. The Ro- mans acknowledged the right of emigration, and claimed it, as one of the firmest foundations of Roman liberty.' The people of the United States, and some of the state constitutions, declare and act upon this right.^ It must be an act done voluntarily, and with the intention of changing residence and remaining in another country, or the emigrant will be entitled to the rights of an American citizen, and be required also to yield allegiance. On the other hand, the government of Great Britain denies the right of expatriation, and, till recently, denied the right of emigration at all. Laws were, till within a few years, enforced, forbidding altogether the emigration * Ne quis invitus civitate mutetur : neve in civitate maneat hivitus. Haec sunt enim fundamenta firmissima nostrae libertatis, sui quemque juris et retinendi et dimittendi esse dominum. — Cicero, Oratio pro It. C. Balbo, ch. 13- Quoted by Chancellor Kent, 2 Commentaries. ^ The Court of Appeals in S. Carolina, in a solemn decision on the Or- dinance of 1832, declared that an oath to bear ''faithful and true alle- giance" to the State of S. Carolina, was void, because allegiance was first due to the National Government, alid any thing derogating from that was unconstitutional. 52 GREAT BRITAIN d'^NIES THE RIGHT. of artisans, or other persons particularly skilled in work. The doctrine of that government is perpetual allegiance, and the idea that a British citizen could become the citi- zen of another country, has not heretofore been tolerated in British jurisprudence. In the courts of the United States the same question has been discussed, but without any final result.^ In France, the law allows a French citizen to expatri- ate himself, but not to bear arms against France. His accepting a foreign naturalization forfeits all his civil and political rights at home.^ Very nearly the same is true of the Austrian law.^ The great principles on which the American govern- ment is founded, will throw some light on this subject, considered as an American question. One of these prin- ciples is that of Christianity. And has Christianity no- thing to do with the political principle of emigration, and, if necessary, of expatriation ? The first command given to the disciples, immediately after the full revelation of the Christian code, was, to "go and teach all nations,"^ a command which could not be fulfilled but by personal * There have been several cases in the Supreme Court, touching the right of expatriation, but the court has rather tended to sustain the English law. These decisions had, how^ever, nothing to do with the national right of protection to its adopted citizens. The cases in which this matter was discussed are Talbot vs. Janson, 3 Dallas, 133 ; Isaac Williams, 4th volume Niles' Register, 109 ; The Santisima Trinidad, 7 Wheaton, 283. In these cases the courts maintained that expatriation could not take place without a bona fide change of residence with an intention to re- main. But the question of expatriatioa itself, they left undecided. ^ 2 Kent's Commentaries, p. 50. * Austrian Decree of 1832. See 2 Kent's Commentaries, p. 50, note. * Matthew xxviii. 19 THE UNITED STATES RECOGNISE IT. 53 presence in the midst of all nations, which required con- tinual commercial intercourse, the propagation and im- provement of the arts, and, finally, the protection of strangers in the midst of foreign nations. This was ne- cessary to propagate Christianity, and, when propagated, its effect was to make peace permanent, and the progress of improvement perpetual. In the midst of this progress of Christianity, the United States were brought into being. They adopted in no small degree its spirit. Their peo- ple were emigrants over wide oceans, and into forest lands. Should such a people, founding such a govern- ment, deny to the emigrant stranger the protection of its laws and hospitality ? The spirit of liberty also requires the unrestrained free dom of intercourse and locomotion. It requires, that the citizen should be allowed to carry his commercial enter- prises into all nations, remain there, if he choose, and claim the protection of the law^s in that nation where he resides. The government of the United States, founded on these principles, has recognised the right of emigi*ation and the right of expatriation, by the constitutional adoption of naturalization laws.^ While it recognised the principle, however, that the citizens of one country may be incor- porated in another, it has determined neither the time, mode, or other circumstances, under which that act may be performed. Nor, indeed, has it made the act one of obligation. The act and the mode of the act are, by the Constitution, left to each generation of the American people, and their representatives in Congress to deter- * U. S. Constitution, art. 1, sec. 8. 4* 54 ANTAGONISaf OF PRINCIPLES. mine, according to their sense of expediency. Accord- ingly, they have three times changed the terms of natu raUzation, to correspond with their sense, at the time, of policy or propriety.^ Such were the principles on which the American gov- ernment was founded, and such was the application of those principles to the questions of emigration and expa- triation made in its fundamental law — the Constitution. It follows from these facts, that the national government, in all intercourse, whether of peace or war, with foreign nations, is bound to maintain the position it has assumed. If that position be opposed, as in fact it is, to the prin- ciples affirmed by other civilized nations, it equally fol- lows, they will present points of antagonism and frequent controversy. This has been the case, and this antagon- ism of principles has been one of the subjects of warm debate between the governments of Great Britain and the United States. The former maintained, that citizenship is perpetual, and allegiance perpetual. If this be true, it is an inevitable consequence, that a born citizen of Eng- land, whether naturalized or not, may be reclaimed when found in foreign vessels, and incur the penalties of trea- son, if found fighting against his birth-countiy. The American government, on the other hand, maintains its right to naturahze a foreigner, and its duty to protect him when naturalized. In October, 1807, Great 'Britain, by proclamation, re- called from foreign service all seamen and sea-faring men, * In 1790, the naturalization laws required two years' residence; m 1795, ^ue; in 1798, fourteen ; and in 1802, this period was reduced to Jive, w^here it remains. THE PRISONERS TAKEN AT QUEENSTOWN. 55 who were natural-born subjects, and ordered them to withdraw themselves and return home. At the same time it declared, that no foreign letters of naturalization could divest its natural-horn subjects of their allegiance, or alter their duty to their lawful sovereign. In the United States, by the act of naturalization, a foreigner becomes entitled to all the privileges and im- munities of natural-born citizens, except that of holding certain offices, such as President.^ These two positions are those of absolute antagonism, and were alone sufficient to account for much of the controversy and heat which attended the war of 1812. Claims to the reclamation of British-born subjects naturalized in America, and claims to impress them when found in American ships, were made on the one hand and resisted on tlie other. This was the state of things when the incidents took place which we are about to relate. The battle of Queenstown closed with the surrender of Scott and his small force to the greatly superior numbers under the command of General Sheaffe.^ These prisoners were sent to Quebec, thence in a cartel to Boston, and soon after Scott was exchanged. When the prisoners were about to sail from Quebec, Scott, being in the cabin of the transport, heard a bustle upon deck, and hastened up. There he found a party of British officers in the act of mustering the prisoners, and separating from the rest such as, by confession or the accent of the voice, were judged to be Irishmen. The object was to send them, ^ 2 Kent's Commentaries, 66. ' Scott's command when surrendered, as we have seen, amounted to 139 regulars, and 154 militia. 66 A SCENE IN THE PRISON-SHIP. in a frigate then alongside, to England, to be tried and executed for the crime of high treason, they being taken in arms against their native allegiance ! Twenty-three had been thus set apart when Scott reached the deck, and there were at least forty more of the same birth in the detachment. They were all in deep affliction, at what they regarded as the certain prospect of a shameful death. Many were adopted citizens of the United States, and several had left families in the land of their adop- tion. The moment Scott ascertained the object of the British officers, acting under the express orders of the governor-general, Sir George Provost, he commanded his men to answer no more questions, in order that no other selection should be made by the test of speech. He commanded them to remain absolutely silent, and they strictly obeyed. This was done, in spite of the threats of the British officers, and not another man was separated from his companions. Scott was repeatedly commanded to go below, and high altercations ensued. He addressed the party selected, and explained to them fully the recip- rocal obligations of allegiance and protection, assuring them, that the United States would not fail to avenge their gallant and faithful soldiers ; and finally pledged himself, in the most solemn manner, that retaliation, and, if necessary, a refusal to give quarter in battle, should follow the execution of any one of the party. In the midst of this animated harangue he was frequently inter rupted by the British officers, but, though unarmed, could not be silenced. The Irishmen were put in irons on board the frigate, and sent to England. When Scott landed in Boston, he proceeded to Washington, and was duly exchanged. He SCOTT S LETTER TO THE SECRETARY OF WAR. 57 immediately related to the president the scene which had occurred at Quebec, and was by him instructed to make a full report of the whole transaction, in writing, to the secretary of war. This was done on the 13th January, 1813.1 As this letter is an important and authentic portion of the history of the discussion which subsequently ensued, in regard to the rights of naturalized citizens under the code of international law, we insert it in this place. Lieutenant- Colonel Scott to the Secretary of War. Sir— I think it my duty to lay before the department that, on the arrival at Quebec of the American prisoners of Avar surrendered at Queenstown, they were mustered and examined by British officers appointed to that duty, and every native-born of the United Kingdoms of Great Britain and Ireland sequestered, and sent on board a ship of war then in the harbor. The vessel in a few days thereafter sailed for England, with these persons on board. Between fifteen and twenty^ persons were thus taken from us, natives of Ireland, several of whom were known by their platoon officers to be naturalized citizens of the ^ American State Papers, vol. 3, p. 634, as published under an act of Congress. ^ There were, in fact, twenty-three, as stated in the text. Their names are given on the 632d page, vol. 3, of American State Papers. They were as follows, viz : — Henry Kelley, Henry Blaney, George M'Common, John Dolton, Michael Condin, John Clark, Peter Burr, Andrew Doyle, John McGowan, James Gill, John Fulsum, Patrick McBraharty, Mat- thew Mooney, Patrick Karns, John Fitzgerald, John Wiley, John Donel- ley, John Currey, Nathan Shaley, Edward M'Garrigan, John Dinnue, John Williams, George Johnson. 58 THE LAW Off RETALIATION. United States, and others to have been long residents within tKe same. One in particular, w^hose name has escaped me, besides having complied with all the condi- tions of our naturalization laws, w^as represented by his officers to have left a wife and five children, all of them born within the state of New York. I distinct^ understood, as well from the officers who came on board the prison-ship for the above purposes, as from others with whom I remonstrated on this subject, that it was the determination of the British government, as expressed through Sir George Provost, to punish every man whom it might subject to its power, found in arms against the British king contrary to his native allegiance. I have the honor to be, sirj Your most obedient servant, W. Scott, Lieut.-Col. U. S. 2d artillery. At the instance of Scott, this Report was, the same day, sent to both houses of Congress. It was also by him pressed on the attention of many members in each house. The result was the early passage of the "Act vesting the President of the United States with the power of retaliation ;" ordered to a third reading, Feb. 27th, and passed March 3d, 1813.^ Two months after this, (May 27th, 1813,) in the battle and capture of Fort George, Scott made a great number of prisoners. True to his pledge given at Quebec, he, as adjutant-general, (chief of the staff,) immediately se- lected twenty-three of the number to be confined in the * 4th volume of Niles's Register, pages 8, 9. THE MEETING AND RECOGNITION. 69 interior of the United States, there to abide the fate of the twenty-three imprisoned and sent to England by the British officers. In making the selection, he was careful not to include a single Irishman, in order that Irishmen might not be sacrificed for Irishmen. This step led, on both sides, to the confinement as hostages, of many other men and officers, all of whom were, of course, dependent for their lives on tlie fate of the original twenty-three. In July, 1815, Avhen peace had been some months con- cluded, and Scott (tfien a major-general) was passing along on the East River side of the city of New York, he was attracted by loud cheers and bustle on one of the piers. He approached the scene, and great was his de- light to find, that it was the cheers of his old Irish friends, in whose behalf he had interfered at Quebec, and who had, that moment, landed in triumph, after a confinement of more than two years in English prisons ! He was quickly recognised by them, hailed as their deliverer, and nearly crushed by tlieir warm-hearted embraces ! Twenty-one were present, two having died natural deaths. Scott had not then recovered from the wounds he had received in the bloody battle of the Niagara, and was about to embark on a vo3\ige to Europe. Yet, in conformity with the promises of friendship he had made these men, he found time to write to the departments at Washington, and solicit for them their patents for land bounties, and their long arrearages of pay. He was successful, and they were at length restored both to their adopted coun- try and their promised rewards. Several of these brave sons of Ireland are yet alive, and can testify to the truth of this narrative. They, in common with hundreds of their countrymen taken prisoners in the same war, figliting the 60 THE DOCTRINE OF PERPETUAL ALLEGIANCE. battles of liberty, have good reason to believe that they owe their liberties, if not their lives, to the solicitations, spirit, and zeal, of Winfield Scott !^ The doctrine that allegiance was perpetual, and that, as a direct consequence, the born-citizens of Great Brit- ain, who were taken in the army or navy of the. United States in time of war against Great Britain, were traitors, was a settled doctrine of the British government. The doctrine, also, that they should be made examples of to deter others in similar circumstances, was the doctrine which they practised upon in the beginning of the war, notwithstanding the fact that they might be naturalized citizens of the United States. Examples of this practice Avere frequent. In the commencement of the war, (Au- gust or September, 1812,) the United States Brig of War Nautilus was captured. Six men of her crew were se- lected, as British subjects, and put in irons, to be sent to England and tried for their lives.^ The "fact being made known to Commodore Rodgers, he immediately took from a number of British prisoners, tivelve of them, including a midshipman, as hostages. Five of the six seized by the British officers were found to be Americans, and were ^ The number of those actually imprisoned by the British, as hostages, was very great, as may be seen in full, by consulting the American State Papers, vol. 3, from 630 to 690, under the heads. Great Britain, Natural- ization. But this number was but a small part of those endangered, for the British held a vast number of our impressed seamen, and of prisoners taken in the war, of whom many were doubtless naturalized citizens. There were twelve hundred American prisoners confined at one time at Chatham. See 4 Niles's Register, 370. There were also several thou- sand Americans who had been impressed. " 3 Niles's Register, 43 ENGLAND SUSTAINS AND ACTS UPON IT. 61 discharged. The sixth was soon after discharged, and the twelve hostages seized by Commodore Rodgers, were also released.^ In October following, (1812,) the American Privateer Sarah Ann, of Baltimore, was captured, and sent into New Providence. Captain Moon, in his letter of October 18th, 1812, states that six of his crew had been seized as British subjects, put in jail, and sent in the Brig Sappho to Jamaica to be tried. ^ One of these was a native of Ireland, naturalized in the United States. The others were said to be Americans. About the same time a boatswain, and some of the crew of the United States Sloop of War Wasp, were de- tained at Bermuda on the charge of being British sub- jects.^ These repeated instances of the same conduct, justi- fied on the same grounds, prove conclusively, that they were not casual acts of British officers, in the spirit of revenge, or the pride of power ; but, at that time, the settled policy of the British government. The principles assumed in the American constitution, that our country would receive into its bosom the worthy exiles of all na- tions,^ required the American government to defend them in the rights they had legally acquired. Accordingly, the affair of the Sarah Anrv' was scarcely known at Washing- ton, on the report of Captain Moon, when the subject of ^ 3 American State Papers, 633. » 3 Niles's Register, 172. ^ 3 Niles's Register, 220. These were detained on suspicion of being British subjects. * Mansfield's Political Grammar, 69-71. » 3 Niles's Register, 192, 208. 62 EFFECT OF THE LAW OF RETALIATION. retaliation was introduced into both houses of Congress. The Senate's committee made no report. But in the House of Representatives, a bill authorizing acts of re- taliation was introduced, by Mr. Wright, November 17th, 1812, and on the 1 9th rejected, by a vote of 6 1 to 5 1 , on the ground that the President, as commander-in-chief of the army and navy, was already vested with retaliatory powers.* Notwithstanding this rejection, Scott's lettet to the secretary of war, of January 13th,- 1813, followed up by his personal representations to members, induced Mr. Campbell of Tennessee, from the committee appointed on the 9th of November, 1812, to whom the subject Avas referred, to report, Feb. 12th, 1813, "A Bill vesting in the President of the United States the power of retalia- tion in certain cases therein specified." This bill passed the Senate on the 18th, (yeas 17, riays 4,^) and the House on the 27th, (yeas 56, nays 17,) and the President gave it his signature March 3d, 1813. It was under this law, passed at the instance of Scott, that he, as adjutant-general, at the end of his day's opera- tions, at Fort George, May 27th, 1813, selected the Englishmen, and sent them into the United States, as hostages for the imprisoned Irishmen.^ Here let the fact be noted that, although other Ameri- can soldiers, also born in the British dominions, were subsequently made prisoners of war, not another one was set apart by the enemy, to be tried for treason, during the remainder of the war. This was the result of a firm de- termination to execute prisoner for prisoner. The severity * 3 Niles's Register, 208. 2 Idem, 406. • See General Dearborn's Letter, 4th vol, Niles-s Register. LETTER OF EARL BATHURST. 63 of justice is sometimes favorable to peace and humanity. This same pohcy of retahation was reluctantly but firmly adopted by General Washington, in the Revolution, and with equally happy effects. From August, 1812, when the first imprisonment of American naturalized citizens (British-born) took place, to the campaign of 1814, in the north, where the tide of war on land turned in favor of America, a succession of hos- tages was selected, and a discussion on the legal points involved was maintained, between the authorities of Great Britain and the United States. It is interesting to refer to the claims of England at that time, and the defence of them by some persons in America, if it were only to contrast them with the very different acts and opinions upon the same subject, at the present time, both in Eu- rope and America. In a collection of American state papers,^ may be found a correspondence, of which the following is a part. Earl Batlmrst to Sir George Prevost. Downing Street, August 12th, 1813. Sir — I have had the honor of receiving your dispatch No. QQ, of the 6th of June, enclosing a letter addressed to your excellency by Major-General Dearborn. In this letter it is stated, that the American commissary of pris- oners in London, had made it known to his government, ^ American State Papers, selected and published under the authority of Congress, by committees of both houses. The letter of Earl Bathurst will be found in vol. iii. pages 640-1. All the official documents connected with this subject will be found iu the State Papers, vol. iii. pages 630-692. 64 THE BRITISH LAW ajAINTAINED IN THEORY, that twenty-three soldiers of the 1st, 6th, and 13th regi- ments of United States infantry, made prisoners, had been sent to England, and held in close confinement as British subjects ; and that Major-General Dearborn had received instructions from his government to put into close con- finement twenty-three British soldiers, to be kept as hos- tages for the safe-keeping and restoration, in exchange, of the soldiers of the United States who had been sent, as above stated, to England ; and General Dearborn ap- prizes you that, in obedience to these instructions, he had put twenty-three British soldiers in close confinement, to be kept as hostages. The persons referred to in this letter were soldiers serving in the American army, taken prisoners at Queens- town, and sent home by you, that they might be disposed of accordiiig to the pleasure of His Royal Highness the Prince Regent, they having declared themselves to be British-born subjects. Your excellency has been directed to send home the necessary evidence upon this point, and they are held in custody to undergo a legal trial. You will lose no time in communicating to Major- General Dearborn, that you have transmitted home a copy of his letter to 3^ou, and that you are, in consequence, instructed distinctly to state to him, that 3^ou have re- ceived the commands of His Royal Highness the Prince Regent, forthwith to put in close confinement forty-six American ofilicers and non-commissioned officers, to be held as liostages for the safe-keeping of the twent3'--thrce British soldiers stated to have been put in close confine- ment b}^ order of the American government ; and you will at the same time apprize him, that if any of the said British soldiers shall sufier death by reason that the BUT RELINQUISHED IN PRACTICE. 65 soldiers now under confinement here have been found guilty, and that the known law, not only of Great Britain, but of every independent state under like circumstances, has been in consequence executed, 3^ou have been in- structed to select out of the American officers and non- commissioned officers whom you shall have put into close confinement, as many as may double the number of Brit- ish soldiers who shall so unwarrantably have been put to death, and cause such officers and non-commissioned offi- cers to suffer death immediately. And you are further instructed to notify to Major- General Dearborn, that the commanders of His Majesty's fleets and armies on the coasts of America, have received instructions to prosecute the war with unmitigated severi- ty agains^ all cities, towns, and villages, belonging to the United States, and against the inhabitants thereof, if, after this communication shall have been duly made to Major-General Dearborn, rand a reasonable time given for its being transmitted to the American government, that government shall unhappily not be deterred from putting to death any of the soldiers who now are, or who may hereEifter be, kept as hostages, for the purposes stated in the letter from Major-General Dearborn. I have the honor to be, Bathurst. The threats contained in this letter were never executed. The British government, either from motives of humanity, from a conviction of error, or from the knowledge that it had no power to carry such principles into effect, re- treated, in practice if not in theory, from the bold ground they had assumed ; and have never again returned to it. 5 66 A GOVERNMENT CONTRARY TO PRECEDENT. The principle on which Lord Bathurst founded his in- structions, was one which, if allowed full force, would have swept the American republic from existence. It was, that the execution of these Irishmen, naturalized in the United States, was required by the " known law not only of Great Britain, but of every independent state under similar circumstances." What principle peculiar to the American republic was not contrary to the " known law," not only of Great Britain, but of other " independent states" of Europe ? The Constitution of the United States was, in many of its most important features, con- trary to all precedents in the governments of Europe, Asia, or Africa. The little fragments of republics which claim an independent existence in Europe, whether the San Marino of the Apennines or the free cities of Ger- many, cannot be deemed independent states, any longer than it may suit the interest or policy of the powerful empires which surround them. The recognition of political rights in the body of the people ; the principle that those rights could not be im- paired by any act of the government ; and the elective chief magistracy, were all contrary to the " known law," not only of Great Britain, but of other independent states of Europe. If the fact of this opposition of laws could confer a right to execute a naturalized citizen of the United States, might it not as reasonably and righteously authorize the punishment of an American citizen, for sustaining an elective president in opposition to an heredi- tary monarch ? Precedents which concern the rights of property, and are made venerable by age, are held in a just reverence and regard by the opinions of maiikind, because they are I THE UNITED STATES MAINTAINS ITS POSITION. 67 then within the proper sphere of their origin and their in- fluence. But, hccd the American people searched among the records of nations for a precedent on which to form their government, they had searched in vain. The world had no such precedent. The world had no mould in which to form such a republic, and it had no principles to apply to it when formed. There were no governments whose practices were not contrary to the principles of the United States, and no people wdio did not profess to venerate and obey other principles of legislation, other modes of pro- cedure, and other foundations of right. Had, then, the United States, in this controversy, conceded the justice of the English principle, as laid down by Lord Bathurst, or failed to defend their own, the}^ would only have left to posterity the duty of defending by other wars, in other ages, the liberties of America. Such, however, was happily not the case. Notwith- standing the success which then attended the allied arms in Europe, and therefore gave a tone of superiority to the claims of the British ministry, the American government yielded nothing of what it deemed the rights of American citizens, nor failed to defend them by any constitutional means within its power. The instructions of Lord Bathurst were promptly obeyed by Sir George Prevost, Avith wdiom had originated the barbarian idea of hanging the twenty-three captured Irishmen for treason. The President of the United States, Mr. Madison, was neither alarmed b}^ this fact, nor by the threat of the British secretary, that the war should be prosecuted with " unmitigated severity," against the " cities, towns, and villages, belonging to the United States, and against the nihabitants thereof." He directed 68 NEW HOSTiy^ES SELECTED. that forty-six British officers should be instantly set apart as hostages, for the safety and restoration of our "forty- six officers and non-commissioned officers" designated by Lord Bathurst. The new hostages were partly selected from Scott's captures, and partly from the prisoners taken by General Harrison at the battle of the Thames. Some other im- prisonments were made on both sides, in the following winter. In the campaign of 1814, however, the Ameri- can arms were crowned with such brilliant success, that Great Britain had little of either power or inclination to pursue the war of retaliation on American prisoners. In fact, it ceased. The prisoners were not executed ; and the claims of Great Britain on that subject, were silently left to neglect and obhvion. In the mean time, a discussion of this question went on among the people, and in the Congress of the United States. While the American principle was ably defended on one hand, it was also vehemently attacked on the other. The secretary of state, Mr. Monroe, made a report to the President, dated April 14th, 1814.^ It was laid be- fore the President two days later, accompanied by various documents illustrating the conduct of the belligerents towards their respective prisoners. In that document, it is said : " The contrast which these documents present, in the pretensions and conduct of Great Britain, with the pre- tensions and conduct of the United States, cannot fail to make a deep impression in favor of the latter. The Brit- ish government impresses into its navy native citizens of * 3 American State Papers, 630 MR. MONROE S REPORT. 69 tlie United States, and compels them to serve in it, and, in many instances, even to fight against tlieir comitry, while it arrests as traitors, and menaces vi^ith death, per- sons suspected to be native British subjects, for having fought under our standard against British forces, although they had voluntarily entered into our army, after having emigrated to the United States and incorporated them- selves into the American Society. The United States, on the other hand, have forced no persons into their ser- vice, nor have they sought, nor are they disposed, to punish any who, after having freely emigrated to any part of the British dominions, and settled there, may have entered voluntarily into the British army. * * * a Although examples may be found of the pun- ishment of their native subjects taken in arms against them, the examples are few, and have either been marked by peculiar circumstances, taking them out of the con- troverted principle, or have proceeded from the passions or policy of the occasion. Even in prosecutions and con- victions having the latter origin, the final act of punish- ment has, with little exception, been prevented by a sense of equity and humanity, or a dread of retaliation. It is confidently believed, that no instance can be found, in which the alleged purposes of the enemy against the twenty-three prisoners in question, under all the circum- stances which belong to their case, even should any of them not have been regularly naturalized, are counte- nanced by the proceedings of any European nation. " That if no instances occur of retaliation in the few cases requiring it, or in any of them, by the government employing such persons, it has been, as is presumable, because the punishment which had been inflicted by the 70 THE CONTRACT. native country might be accounted for on some principle other than the denial of the right of emigration and natu- ralization. Had the government employing the persons so punished b}^ their native countr)^, retaliated in such cases, it might have incurred the reproach, either of countenancing acknoAvledged crimes, or of following the example of the other party in acts of cruelty, exciting horror, rather than of fulfilling its pledge to innocent per- sons in support of rights fairly obtained, and sanctionec' by the general opinion and practice of all the nations of Europe, ancient and modern." In regard to the personal rights of the imprisoned Irish- men, and their claim for defence on the government of the United States," the acts of Congress regulating the army are supposed to furnish another argument, not men- tioned by Mr. Monroe. The original act of Congress regulating the recruiting service,^ required that none but ** able-bodied citizens" should be enlisted. But on the ap- proach of war, (Jan. 11th, 1812,) Congress designedly changed this to "able-bodied men,"^ according to the usual practice in recruiting loar-establishments. This act of Congress w^as, in some measure, an invitation to foreign- ers to join our standard, and therefore created an obliga- tion on the part of the government to defend those who had accepted its offers. The twenty-three men in ques- tion had bravely and faithfully performed their parts of the contract. The United States, therefore, were, in good faith, bound to perform theirs. A different view of this subject, and its relations to the national law of the United States, and their intercourse * Laws of the United States. ' Idem- SPEECH OF MR. HANSON. 71 with foreign nations, was, however, taken, by some citi zens of abihty and distinction. They appealed to what Lord Bathurst called the " known law of Great Britain," and considered the doctrines of the United States but as new theories, entitled to but little weight, when opposed to the British precedents, which sustained the principle of perpetual allegiance. At the moment when this great question was debated, both by arms and by negotiation, between the contending bellige- rents, on either side of the Atlantic, it was also discussed in the House of Representatives. The Hon. Mr. Hanson,^ in a speech made Feb. 14th, 1814, took this ground, in opposition to a bill authorizing a loan of twenty-five millions of dollars, to carry on the war. The general object of that opposition was, by stop- ing the supplies, to force the United States into a peace with Great Britain. He pronounced " the impressment of British seamen from American merchant vessels," to have become " the vital point" in contest, as it respected the supporters of the war. He said — " Mr. Chairman — upon this question of impressment, allegiance, protection, and naturalization, which has been connected with it, gentlemen here may fret, rail, and argue, until doomsday. They may set up new-fangled doctrines, and deny old and established principles, but as far as depends on the opinions of the ablest jurists, and the practice of the oldest regular governments, the point in controversy is long ago settled. It is immutably deter- mined, * Carpenter's Select American Speeches, vol. 2, pp. 425-431. 72 AN appea;, to posterity. [Here he quoted " the fundamental maxim of the law of England" — '' perpetual allegiance" — " once a subject, always a subject," &c.] " Now, sir," continued Mr. Hanson, '' I am prepared to go a step further than has been deemed necessary from the actual case presented to our consideration. I say, that an Englishman, naturalized or not by our laws, if found in arms against his native country, is a traitor by the laws of his native country. I do not confine the position to British subjects naturalized here, and made captives with- in the dominions of their sovereign, where the arm of protection cannot be extended ; but, if the armies of the enemy crossed the Ime, and invaded us in turn, and made prisoner a Briton found in arms against Britain, he is as much a traitor as if taken a prisoner in the heart of the British empire. " Such men are traitors in the legal, true sense of the word, and ought to be treated as such. The good of society and the safety of government require it. If, to protect them, we resort to a bloody, ferocious, exterminating sys- tem of retaliation, we shed the innocent blood of our own countrj^men. ^' I say, then, without reserve, if the President proceeds in the ruthless, bloody business he has commenced, he is answerable, here and hereafter, for all the American lives wantonly sacrificed. Posterity will pronounce him guilty, and heap maledictions upon his name. * * * u ^vVhen the party contests of the day are forgot- ten ; when the passions engendered by political strife have subsided ; when reason shall resume her throne, and the present generation is swept into the silent tomb, those who live after us will pronounce a judgment VERDICT OF POSTERx TY. 73 upon the chief actors in this tragedy of blood and mur- tler."i Mr. Burke has said in one of his eloquent productions, that no one was ever known to call up the spirits of the dead, but he was answered w^ith the denunciation of evil upon himself. With equal truth it ma)^ be said of those w^ho appeal to posterity for a verdict against their country. Thirty-three years, the average period of a generation, have passed away, since this speech was made. The larger part of those who then lived have been *' swept to the silent tomb." The multitudes of advancing posterity already begin to fill up the wide-extended, but then un- peopled regions^ of that countr}^, whose rights and glory were then at issue on the field of arms. Reason is free to judge who combated for principle and who for do- minion. Where is the American who would now yield any of the objects then contended for ? Where is the nation which now affirms against the United States, the doctrines then assumed by Great Britain ? Measures of apparent severity often accomplish the ob- jects of mercy. Scott, who was the originator and one of " the chief actors in this tragedy of blood and murder," saw the war close without the execution of one native citizen in British hands, while the lives of many adopted ^ The tragedy of blood and murder was a very peaceful transaction. There were hardships endured, however, by prisoners in the jails of Great Britain. Sec American Sfate Papers, 3d volume, from 630 to 692. " Durke's Letter to the Earl of Lauderdale. His aflusion is to Saul calling' up the spirit of the prophet Samuel, by the witch of Endor, and who is answ"ered by the prediction of his own death. ' The population of the United States was then eight millions It is now twenty millions I 4 74 WHAT WAS GAINED BY THE WAR? citizens, taken prisoners in fighting the battles of our countr}^, were, by his firmness, saved from an ignominious death. Thus were the prophecies of evil averted, the rights of the nation vindicated, and the moral power of a victorious principle added to the lustre of glorious arms. Nor were these its only fruits. When some cold skeptic, unmoved by the virtue of patriotism, shall inquire, what was gained by that war ? let him be answered, that it defended the rights of the sailor on the ocean,* and of the citizen on the land. Let him be referred, in the histoiy of these events, to the contempt they then suffered, and to the usurpations they have now escaped. It has been gravely said, that the treaty of peace was silent on the rights contended for, and therefore the war was without effect. They who make this objection have forgotten, that silence is often the most expressive of language. Thirty years have elapsed, and the acts of Great Britain, and other European nations, are as silent and as inoffensive as the treaty. They have practically interpreted its meaning. They have ceased from their aggressions, and permitted their insulting claims to pass silently and peacefully into oblivion. From that bourne there can be no return. We might as well expect to see the ghosts of departed w^arriors resume their armor and renew their battle-fields, as to see these departed claims of Great Britain, against American sailors and American citizens, again become a cause of war, or the subject of any reasonable discussion. They have taken rheir place among buried abuses. ^ British impressment of American seamen was founded oil the same prelcnce — a bom subject must live and die a subject. OPENIIN'G OF THE CAMPAIGN. 77 CHAPTER VI. 1813 Capture of York and Deatli of Pike. — Scott joins the Army as Adjutant- General — Battle and Capture of Fort George. — Pursuit of the enemy. — Anecdote. — Scott's Magnanimity. With the battle of Queenstown closed Scotf s military operations in 1812, on the northern frontier. From Niag- ara he was sent to Quebec, where occurred the scene, already described, with the captured Irishmen. Thence he went in a cartel ship to Boston, and in January, 1813, was exchanged. His first duties were performed at Washington, in pressing upon Congress the law of retal- iation, and the vindication of American citizenship. His next were to revisit the banks of the Niagara, and there, in fresh actions of courage and achievement, give renew- ed evidence of devotion to country, and of martial enthu- siasm. The campaign of 1813 opened with one of the most brilliant actions of the war. It was the capture of York, the capital of Upper Canada, by the American troops under the command of General Dearborn. The army was land- ed from the squadron of Commodore Chauncey, and the assailing party was led by Pike. The place was captured, with a large number of prisoners, and the British naval materiel, there collected, destroyed.^ At the moment ^ See Letter of General Dearborn to the Secretary of War ; and the Letter of Commodore Chauncey to the Secretary of the Navy; NilesV Register, 4th volume, page 178. 78 DEATH OF GENERAL PIKE. of success a magazine exploded, and Pike was killed by the fall of a stone. He died, like Wolfe, in the arms of victory, and the tears of grief and joy were mingling to- gether at the story of the battle, which was won, and of the hero who died.-^ It was just after this event, that Colonel Scott joined the army at Fort Niagara. He joined in the capacity of Adjutant-General, (chief of the staff,) under the command of Major-General Dearborn. Though thus engaged in staff duties, he insisted upon the right, and it was con- ceded, of commanding his own regiment on extraordinary occasions. The principal staff-officers were then new to the army, and upon Scott devolved the duty of organizing the details of the several departments, which he did to the satisfaction of both army and commander. On the British side of the Niagara was a peninsula, of which Fort George was the defence. This position Gen- eral Dearborn determined to carry. He was then at the head of four or five thousand men, and was co-operated with by Commodore Chauncey and his naval force. Ar- rangements were made for an attack on the morning of the 27th of May. At 3 A. M. the fleet weighed anchor, and before four, the troops were all on board the boats. ^ ^ A letter of General Pike, written to his father, then living near Cin- cinnati, was characteristic and prophetic. He writes thus : — " I embark to-morrow in the fleet, at Sacketts Harbor, at the head of a column of 1500 choice troops, on a secret expedition. * * * * * * * Should I be the happy mortal destined to turn the scale of war, will you not rejoice. Oh ! my father? May heaven be propitious, and smile on the cause of my country. But if we are destined to fall, may my fall be like Wolfe's — to sleep in the arms of victorJ^" The wish was fulfilled. ^ See Commodore Chauncey's Letter to the Secretary of the Navy 4 Niles's Register, 240. SCOTT LEADS THE FORLORN HOPE. 79 The embarkation was made three miles east of our Fort Niagara. It was made in six divisions of boats. In the first was Colonel Scott, who led the advanced guard, or forlorn hope, a service to which he had specially volun- teered. In the second was Colonel Moses Porter, with the field train. Then followed the brigades of Generals Boyd, Winder, Chandler, and a reserve under Col. A, Macomb. In the mean time. Commodore Chauncey had directed his schooners to anchor close in shore, so near as to cover the landing of the troops, and scour by their fire the woods and plain wherever the enemy might make his appear- ance.^ Captain Perry, a friend of Scott's, had joined Commodore Chauncey, from Erie, on the evening of the 25th, and gallantly volunteered his services in . superin- tending the debarkation of the troops.^ It was an opera- tion of nicety, in consequence of the wind, the current, a heavy surf, and the early commenced fire of the enemy. He was present wherever he could be useful, under show- ers of musketry.^ He accompanied the advanced guard through the surf, and rendered special services, of which General Scott has since spoken in the highest terms of commendation. It was the budding forth of that profes- sional skill, and that brave and generous conduct, which soon bloomed out in the gl'ory which now surrounds the name of the hero of Lake Erie. Col. Scott effected his landing, on the British shore of Lake Ontario, at nine o'clock in the morning, in good order, at half a mile from the village of Newark, now * See Commodore Chauncey's Letter to the Secretary of the Navy 4 Niles's Register, 240. ^ Idem. ^ Idem 80 THE ENEMY TOTALLY DEFEATED. • Niagara, and the same distance west of the mouth of the river. He formed his hne on the beach, covered by an irregular bank, w^hich served as a partial shield against the enemy's fire. This bank, which was from seven to twelve feet in height, he had to scale against the bayonets of the foe, who had drawn up his force, some fifteen hundred men, immediately on its brow. In the first attempt to ascend, the enemy pushed back the as- sailants. General Dearborn, who was still in the commo- dore's ship, seeing with his glass Scott fall backward up- on the beach, burst into tears, exclaiming, " He is lost ! He is killed !" Scott's fall was, however, momentary, Recovering himself, and rallying his men, he reascended the bank, knocking up the enemy's bayonets, and took a position at the edge of a ravine,^ a little way in advance. A sharp action of about twenty minutes in length ensued. It was short and desperate, ending in the total rout of the enemy at every point. Meanwhile, Porter with his artillery, and Boyd with a part of his brigade, had landed in the rear of the advance guard, and slightly participated in the close of the action. Scott pursued the rout as far as the village, where he was joined by the 6th regiment of infantry, under the command of Colonel James Miller. As the column was passing Fort George, in pursuit, Scott learned from some prisoners caught running out, that the garrison were about to abandon and blow up the place. Two companies were instantly dispatched from the head of his column to save the work, its guns, and 1 See Chauncey's official account, which mentions the concealment of the enemy in the same ravine, 4 Niles, 240- i\- ■ SCOTT TEARS DOWN THE BRITISH FLAG. 81 stores. At the distance of some eighty paces from the fort, one of its magazines exploded. Scott was struck with a piece of timber, thrown from his horse, and much hurt. He nevertheless caused the gate to be forced, and was the first to enter. With his own hand he took down the British flag, then waving over the works. Being re- minded by his prisoners of the danger he incurred from explosion, he directed Captains Hindman and Stockton^ to snatch away the matches, which had been applied by the retreating garrison to two other small magazines. The fort had been rendered untenable by the American batteries on the opposite shore,^ and its capture was but the work of a few minutes. This accomplished, Scott remounted, and was soon at the head of his column, in hot pursuit. This pursuit was continued for five miles,^ until, at length, he was recalled by General Boyd in per- son. He had already disregarded two successive orders* to the same eff'ect, sent by General Lewis, saying to the aids-de-camp who came to him, (one of them Lieutenant, now General, Worth, and the other Major Vandeventer,) " Your General does not know that I have the enemy within my power ; in seventy minutes, I shall capture his whole force." ■ In point of fact, Scott was already in the midst of the British stragglers, with their main body full in sight. He would not have been overtaken by Bo)^d, but that he had waited fifteen minutes for Colonel Burn, his senior officer, who had consented to serve under him. This last colonel ^ The first of these officers died a colonel, and the second (Stockton) is now Governor of Delaware. ^ Dearborn's Report to the Secretary of War. Armstrong's Notices of the War. * Idem. 6 82 SCOTT IS RECALLED FROM THE PURSUIT. • had just crossed the river from the Five-Mile Meadov^, in the rear of the main body of the enemy, with one troop of horse, and was then w^aiting the landing of another now more than half way over. This force constituted the pre- cise additional force which was wanted by Scott to make good the assurances he had sent to General Lewis. With the recall of Scott from the pursuit of the enemy ended the battle and capture of Fort George. The American loss was less than that of the enemy,^ and one of the ob- jects set forth in the plan of the campaign was decidedly accomplished.^ This engagement was not without some incidents, which may serve to illustrate both the character of Scott, and the gallantry of the American army. Scott, as we have narrated, had turned from the head of his column to enter Fort George, and seize the British flag. Just behind him was Colonel Moses Porter, of the artillery. On entering the fort, and finding Scott there. Porter said, " Confound 3^our long legs, Scott, you have got in before me." After the capture of Scott, the year before, at Queens- town, he was supping with General SheafFe, and a num- ber of British officers, when one of them, a colonel, asked him if he had ever seen the neighboring Falls. Scott re- phed, " Yes, from the American side." To this the other sarcastically replied, " You must have the glory of a suc- cessful fight before you can view the cataract in ah its grandeur," meaning from the Canada shore. Scott re- ^ According to General Dearborn's Letter to the Secretary at War, the American loss was 17 killed and 45 wounded; British loss, 90 killed, 160 wounded, and 100 prisoners — 4 Niles, 239. " Armstrong's Notices, vol. 1, Appendix. MAGNANIMITY UNITED WITH HEROISM. 83 jomed, " If it be 3^our intention to insult me, sir, honor should have prompted you first to return me my sword !" General SheafFe promptly rebuked the British colonel, and the matter was dropped. At the battle of Fort George, among the earliest prisoners taken by the Americans was tl>e same British colonel, badly wounded. Scott politely borrowed the prisoner's horse, not being able to bring his own in the boats, and gave orders that the prisoner should be treated with all possible attention and kindness. That evening, after the pursuit, and as often as subsequent events permitted, Scott call- ed on the British colonel. He returned him the horse, and carefully provided for all his wants. Indeed, he ob- tained permission for him to return to England on his pa^ role, at a time when the belligerents had begun to refuse such favors, as well as all exchanges. At the first of these visits the prisoner delicately remarked, " I liave long owed you an apology, sir. You have overwhelmed me with kindnesses. You can now, at your leisure, view the Falls in all their glory." It is such acts of magnanimity as these which reflect honor on human nature. Were they more frequent, the rough brow of war would be smoothed to smiles, and the field of battle be as remarkable for the beautiful in char acter as for the glorious in action. 84 ATTACK ON SACKETTS HARBOR. CHAPTER VII. . 1813. British attack on Sacketts Harbor. — Capture of Chandler and Winder.— Surrender of Boerstler. — Scott's Promotion. — Plan of the Campaign. — Scott at Fort George. — His departure for the St. Lawrence. — He com- mands the advance in the descent of the St. Lawrence. — Retreat of the army. — Reflections on the Campaign. Two days after the capture of Fort George by the American forces, a body of British troops,^ under the com- mand of Sir George Prevost, (Governor-General of Can- ada,) landed at Sacketts Harbor, N. Y., for the purpose of destroying the naval stores there collected, and the new ship General Pike, then on the stocks.^ They were fortu- nately delayed in crossing the lake, by baffling winds, till a body of militia could be collected to reinforce the small regular force there stationed. This corps was commanded by a leader alike sagacious and intrepid, who, like Cincin- natus, was found at the plough.^ This leader was General Jacob Brown, who soon disposed of his troops to the best advantage, and in the action which ensued, drove the enemy back to their ships, thus saving the port and the stores.* To the successful actions of York, of Fort George, and of Sacketts Harbor, there were soon added others of a less fortunate result, and a less pleasant hue. On the 6th ^ About 900 men. See Brown's Letter, 4 Niles, 241. " Bayne's Ofiicial Report. See Armstrong's Notices, 143. • Armstrong's Notices. * Brown's Report. TWO DISASTROT S EXPEDITIONS. 85 of June, a small brigade^ of American troops, under the command of General Winder, had been thrown forward to Stony Creek, and there reinforced by another corps under Chandler. Their object was the pursuit and cap- ture of the British corps who had retreated from Fort George, under the command of Vincent. This officer thought it better to risk a battle than to give up his posi- tion. He preferred also to make the attack. Accordingly, on the morning of the 6th, by night, a British column was pushed into the centre of the American line, which Vin- cent had discovered to be weakened by extension, and liable to surprise, by the negligence of camp guards.^ The attack succeeded so far as to break the American line, and by a strange misfortune, both of the American gen- erals. Winder and Chandler, fell into the hands of the British. The enemy was at length repelled, but the army being without an experienced commander, retreat- ed by the advice of a council of war.^ A few days after this adventure, • another incident still more disastrous occurred. Colonel Boerstler had been detached, with a corps of six hundred men, to take the British post called the Stone House, two miles beyond the Beaver Dams, and seventeen from Fort George. The British force was larger than was supposed. Boerstler was suffered to advance without annoyance, till at length he was surrounded and compelled to surrender on the 24th of June.* During this time, and for more than three months, the ' About 800 men. — Armstrong's Notices. ^ Armstrong's Notices. ' Idem. * Boerstler's Letter, 4 Niles's Register, 353. 6* 86 SKIRMISHES. DESCENT UPON YORK. main body of the army remained for the most part inactive, and intrenched at Fort George, under the command succes- sively of Generals Dearborn, Lewis, Boyd, and Wilkinson. Colonel Scott was in neither of the engagements above narrated. His duty was in foraging at least twice a week, and in other camp duties. In these excursions, repeated skirmishes with small parties of the enemy occurred. Not a load of forage was cut between the hostile camps with- out a sharp combat, and he never lost one. In these af- fairs he displayed his usual tact and gallantry, though they afforded no other opportunities of distinction than those which belong to an active and successful partisan officer. In July of the same year, (1813,) Col. Scott was pro- moted to the command of a double regiment, (20 compa- nies,) at which time he resigned the office of Adjutant- General, as it no longer conferred additional rank. In September an expedition was proposed against Burlington Heights, at the head of Lake Ontario, reported to be the depot of a large quantity of provisions and other British stores. In this expedition he volunteered to command the land troops, and was taken on board the fleet by Commo- dore Chauncey. Burlington Heights wxre visited, but neither enemy nor stores were found there. On the re- turn, it was determined to make a descent upon York, (now Toronto.) Accordingly, a landing of the soldiers and marines was eff"ected, under the command of Colonel Scott. The barracks and public storehouses were burnt. Large depots of provisions and clothing w^ere taken, to- gether with eleven armed boats, and a considerable quan- tity of ammunition, and several pieces of cannon.-^ » 4 Niles's Register, 387. PLAN OF THE CAMPAIGN OF 1813. 87 At the close of this summer a plan of campaign^ was de- vised, having for its first object Kingston, and then Mont- real. Kingston was deemed the most important British post on the Lakes, and Montreal was the chief trading town of Lower Canada. Had this plan been success- fully carried out, it must have resulted in the substan- tial conquest of both the Canadas. Canada West would have been cut off from its military supplies, and the fall of Montreal would have determined the possession of Lower Canada, with the exception of Quebec.^ To accomplish this plan of the campaign, the troops under General Wilkinson were ordered to concentrate at Sacketts Harbor, in the early part of October.^ With him was ordered to co-operate the division of Major-General Hampton, from the Chateaugue River, in Northern New York. Accordingly, Wilkinson embarked with the Niag- ara army on the 2d of October. Li accordance with the same plan. Fort George Avas retained and garrisoned. Col. Scott was left as its commander, having between seven and eight hundred regulars, and a part of Col. Swift's re- giment of militia, to complete and defend Fort George — the key of the peninsula. This work the Americans, after its capture, undertook to enlarge and reconstruct. 'A new trace was made by Captain (now Colonel) Totten, of the engineers, but was by no means filled out when Wil- kinson sailed in Chauncey's fleet. One of the faces of the work remained open. There was consequently no impe- diment on that side between the American and the British army. This fort had been taken, as we have said, by * Plan of the Campaign — Appendix to Armstrong's Notices. ' Armstrong's Plan of the Campaign. * Idem. 88 MEASURES TO DEFEND THE POST OF HONOR. Scott himself, the British colors being taken down by his own hands. He was, therefore, proud of the capture, and determined to defend it as the post of honor. He lost not a moment nor an effort in completing the defences of the fort. Expecting an assault at any moment, all hands, in- cluding the commander, worked night and day. A week accomphshed much, at the end of which, (October 9th,) the enemy, contrary to all expectations, broke up his camp and followed Wilkinson down the country. This event had been anticipated, but was supposed to be a distant contingency. On the happening of it. Col. Scott was authorized, by his instructions, to place Fort George under the command of Brigadier-General Mc- Clure, of the New York militia, who then commanded on the American side of the Niagara. He was then, with the regulars, to overtake and join Wilkinson in time for his intended conquests on the St. Lawrence. For this purpose it was promised that the fleet should be sent up to receive the regular garrison at the mouth of the Niagara. Two official reports of Col. Scott, at this time, will show the operations of the corps under his command, and his movement from Fort George. From Colonel Wirifield Scott, of the 2d artillery, to Ma- jor- General Wilkinson. Fort George, Oct. 11th, 1813. ** Within the last five minutes I have had the honor to receive your dispatch by the Lady of the Lake, Captain Mix. The enemy has treated me with neglect. He contin- ued in his old position until Saturday last, (the 9th inst.,) when he took up his retreat on Burlington Heights, and RUMORS OF THE DEFEAT OF PROCIWR. 89 has abandoned the wliole peninsula. Two causes are as- signed for this precipitate movement — the succor of Proc- tor, who is reported to be entirely defeated, if not taken ; the other, the safety of Kingston, endangered by j^our movement. We have had from the enemy many deserters, most of whom concur in the latter supposition. The British burnt every thing in store in this neighbor- hood ; — three thousand blankets, many hundred stand of arms ; also the blankets in the men's packs, and every article of clothing not in actual use. They are supposed to have reached Burlington Heights last evening, from the rate of their march the night be- fore. I have information of their having passed ' the 40'^ by several inhabitants who have come down. They add to what was stated by the deserters, that two officers of the 41st had joined General Vincent from Proctor's army, with information that Proctor was defeated eighteen miles this side of Maiden. I cannot get particulars. From the same sources of intelligence it appears, that the 49th, a part of the 100th, and the Voltigeurs, moved from this neighborhood the day after our flotilla left this, the 3d inst. ; but with what destination is not certainly known. It was first reported (I mean in the British camp) that these regiments had marched to support Proctor, who, it is said, wrote that he Vv^ould be compelled to surrender, if not supported.^ * Forty Mile Creek — that distance from Niagara. * Proctor was defeated, and the British and Indian force in the north- west routed, on the 5th of October, 1813. The rumor which Scott speaks of was six days after the event, and 90 INACTIVITY INSUPPORTABLE TO A SOLDIER. I am pretty sure, however, that they are gone below The movement of our army below seems to have been known in the British lines as early as the 3d inst., together with the immediate objects in view : hence, I have no difficulty in concluding, that all the movements of the enemy will concentrate at Kingston. * * * * I had mad-e this morning an arrangement, on application to General McClure to be relieved in the command of this post, on the morning of the 13th inst., with an intention of taking up my line of march for Sacketts Harbor, according to the discretion allowed me in the instructions I had the honor to receive from you at this place. My situation has become truly insupportable, without the possibility of an attack at this post, and with- out the possibility of reaching you time enough to share in the glory of impending operations below. I am never- theless flattered with the assurance that transports will be forwarded for my removal ; and to favor that impression, I propose taking up my line of march on the morning of the 13th for the mouth of Genesee River, and there await the arrival of the vessels you are good enough to promise me. By this movement Captain Mix thinks with me, that I shall hasten my arrival at Sacketts Har- bor five, possibly ten, days. Captain Camp^ (the quarter- master) has a sufficient number of wagons to take me thither. I ''^u easily make that place by the evening of the 15th. I hope I shall have your approbation, and was no doubt brought in either by officers or Indians from the defeated arm 5'. ^ Col. J. G. Camp, (now marshal of Florida,) a distinguished officer in the caraj>aifjn of 1814, on tho Niagara. SCOTT S REPORT TO THE JECRETARY OF WAR. 91 every thing is arranged with Brigadier McClure. * * * * ***** J j^ayg^ ]^y working night and day, greatly im- proved the defences of this post, and nearly filled up the idea of the engineer. I flatter myself that I have also improved the garrison in discipline." * * * * At the close of December, 1813, after Wilkinson's campaign on the St. LawreiTce was ended. Colonel Scott was three days in Washington, when he addressed a letter to the Secretary of War, of which the following extracts relate to his march from Fort George : Extracts of a Letter from Colonel Winfield Scott to the Secretary of War. Georgetown, December 31, 1813. " At your desire, I have the honor to make the following report : — I left Fort George, on the 13th of October last, by order of Major-General Wilkinson, with the whole of the regular troop of the garrison, and was relieved by Brigadier-General McClure, with a body of the New York detached militia. Fort George, as a field-work, might be considered as complete at that period. It was garnished with ten pieces of artillery, (which number might easily have been in- creased from the spare ordnance of the opposite fort,) and with an ample supply of field ammunition, &c., as the enclosed receipt for those articles will exhibit. Fort Niagara, on the 14th of October, was under the immediate command of Captain Leonard of the 1st artil- lery, who, besides his own company, had Captain Read's of the same regiment, together with such of General McClure's brigade as had refused to cross the river 93 THE MARCH Tq,jSACKETTS HARBOR. • Lieutenant-Colonels Fleming, Bloom, and Dobbins, of the militia, had successively been in command of this fort, by order of the Brigadier-General, but I think neither of these was present at the above period. Major-General Wilkinson, in his order to me for the removal of the reg- ular troops on that frontier, excepted the two companies of the 1st artillery, then at Fort Niagara. And under the supposition that I should nreet water transportation for my detachment at the mouth of Genesee River, I had his orders to take with me the whole of the convalescents left in the different hospitals by the regiments which had accompanied him. This order I complied with."^ It Avill be observed from the above documents, that Scott expected to embark at tlie mouth of Genesee River, where Wilkinson was to provide means for his embarcation. On his arrival at that place, the same dis- patch-vessel, the Lady of the Lake, again came to Colonel Scott with letters, informing him that Commo- dore Chauncey was indeed ready to redeem his part of the promise, and desirous of meeting him there ; but that General Wilkinson solemnly protested against the ab- sence of the fleet, even for four days, and hence Scott had no alternative but a long march upon Sacketts Harbor, by the way of Rochester,^ Canandaigua, and Utica. It rained incessantly, and the roads, at that time nowhere good, were never worse. North of Utica, Scott met General Armstrong, then Secretary of War, who per- * American State Papers — Military Affairs, vol. i. pp. 482-3. * The city of Rochester had then no existence. It has grown iip since the war. SCOTT CAPTURES FORT MATILDA. 93 mitted him to leave his column under the command of Major Hiridman, the next in rank, and singly to join the army on the St. Lawrence, at whatever point he could. This he accomplished, through mud and rain, the evening of the 6th of November, near Ogdensburg. Wilkinson was then just about to pass the heavy fort (Welling- ton) opposite, the fire of which Scott had the honor to receive in the leading and largest boat of the American flotilla. The following day he was appointed to the command of a fine battalion, in the corps cf elite, under Colonel Macomb. In the descent of the St. Lawrence, he com- manded the advance-guard of the army ; hence he was not present at the action of the 11th of November, at Chrysler's Farm, fifteen miles in the rear. At the moment of that battle, Scott, with seven hun- dred men, was engaged with Colonel Dennis and an equal force, in passing Hoophole Creek, just above Cornwall. He effected the passage under the fire of the British force, routed them, captured many prisoners, and pur- sued the fugitives till night. Being always in advance, he had the day before landed near Fort Matilda, w^hich commanded the narrowest point on the whole length of the St. Lawrence. There he had a sharp encounter with the enemy, took an officer and some men prisoners, and gained possession of the fort. At commencing the descent of the St. Lawrence, Wil- kinson had proclaimed that he came to " conquer,"^ but * Wilkinson's Proclamation of the 6th November says, that the army of the United States " invades these provinces to conquer, and not to de- stroy." 94 WILKINSON ORDERS A RETREAT. the indecisive action of " Chrysler's Farm," in which a portion only of the army was engaged,^ was the only event connected with the general movement of the expe- dition which looked like a resolute determination, or a positive energy, towards decisive action. Even in that action the troops were hmited, by the orders of the com- mander-in-chief, to defensive operations.^ It was, there- fore, attended with no important results. On the following day, the 12th of November, a retreat commenced. The army, and when it was promulgated, the nation, heard with astonishment, that the expedition down the St. Lawrence for the conquest of Canada was abandoned !^ This took place when Scott with the ad- vanced guard was fifteen miles in advance of the parties engaged on Chrysler's Field ; when there was no body of British troops between Scott and Montreal which could have arrested his march six hours ; and when, finally, Montreal itself contained no garrison sufficient to liave obstructed his entry !'* ^ The official report of the battle of Chrysler's Field says, that Wil- kinson gave directions, by that distinguished officer, Colonel Swift of the engineers, to Brigadier-General Boyd, to throw " his own, Covington's, and Swartwout's brigades, into three columns, to march upon the enemy." His force (about seventeen hundred men) were engaged. The British had about the same force. The Americans accomplished their object, which was by their orders to " beat back an attack." ^ Testimony of General Boyd on Wilkinson's Trial — Armstrong, vol. ii. p. 16. ' In his Order (13th November) he tells the army it " is not aban- doned." * In Wilkinson's Letter of the 15th November, (Niles's Register, vol. v. p. 234,) he says, that he had ascertained, that on the 4th of November, the British troops in Montreal were but four hundred marines and two hundred sailors, which had been sent up from Quebec. DISAPPOINTMENT OF THE NATION. 95 This cruel disappointment to the army and the nation, was brought about by the refusal of General Hampton to join Wilkinson at St. Regis, as he himself declared, for fear of a want of provisions and forage ;^ and by the re- fusal of General Wilkinson to descend the St. Lawrence further, as he said, because Hampton had refused to join him with his division.^ However satisfactory these reasons may have been to the respective commanders, they were entirely otherwise to the American nation. The northern frontier, from whicli so much had been expected, was regarded with mingled feelings of shame and regret. The army which had departed but six days before from Ogdensburg, numerous in array and well-appointed in equipment, retreated, the day after the action of Chrys- ler's Field, to winter-quarters, and took up its position on Salmon River, at French Mills. On this spot is now a village, called after the gallant general mortally wounded at Chrysler's Field, and whose remains were buried there — Fort Covington. In the movements of armies, as in the policy of nations, no degree of individual virtue, courage, or effort, will supply the want of skill and energy in the directing minds. In the plan of this campaign there was no want of foresight or sagacity. The capture of Kingston, the main point in the plan,^ would have destroyed the strong- est point of defence, and depot of stores, on the line of ^ Hampton's Letter of the 8th of November. He says, he " hopes to prevent" Wilkinson's stai-ving ! 5 Niles, 235. ^ Wilkinson's General Order of the 13th of November, 5 Niles, 232. ' Armstrong's Notices, Plan of the Campaign, vol. ii. pp. 188-189 ; also vol. ii. Appendix, No. 11. 96 THE ADVANTAGES OF ADVERSITY. the St. Lawrence and the lakes, from Quebec to Detroit. Montreal would then have fallen at any moment the American commander chose. In the departure from the first object, and deciding on a descent on Montreal, there was yet an important, and, in the event of success, probably decisive move ment to be accomplished. The fall of Montreal would have given the Americans the command of the heart of the Canadas, and with the comparatively small regular force of the British, they would have kept it, and com- manded the line of the St. Lawrence.^ Such was not, however, to be the result. There was enough of individual valor, of skill, of daring, and of enterprise, to have secured success to a competent com mander, or victory to the boldness of an ardent leader. But, by a series of unnecessary delays and inexplicable blunders on the part of chiefs, these noble gifts of infe- riors were rendered useless to their country and unavail- able to themselves. Amidst the disasters of the campaign there was one benefit. The touchstone of experience had been applied to the temper of the army, and it was now easy to select the pure metal from the dross. It was a hard school of adversity ; but many brave and highly gifted young men were trained by its teachings to become accomplished and efficient officers. On the other hand, it detected the emptiness and unfitness of many a fop, both young and ^ The plan of the Secretary at War, as shown by the official corre- spondence, appears to have been that stated in the text. It seems, however, that General Wilkinson differed from the secretary in opinion, and finally adopted his own scheme, which was the descent of the St. liawrence, as he attempted it. THE SPIRITS OF THE STORM. 97 old, who had been seduced into the service by the gHtter of uniform and the pomp of mihtary parade. They were made to learn and feel their incompetency to endure the duties or the frowns of war. An elegant writer^ has well remarked, that the rude winter gales of Canada swept from our ranks the painted insects, which were fit only to spread their glittering wings in the summer sun ; but, at the same time, roused and invigorated the eagle-spirits, who during the calm cower in solitude and silence, but, as the tempest rises, come forth from obscurity to stem the storm, and sport themselves in the gale. ^ Substantially quoted from a Biography of Scott in the Analectic Magazine. 5 SCOTT SPENDS THE WINTER AT ALBANY. 99 CHAPTER VIII. 1814. Formation of the Camp of Instruction at Buffalo. — Opening of the Cam- paign. — Passage of theNiagara. — Skirmish with the Marquis of Tweedale. — Position of the Armies. — Battle of Chippewa. — Its Consequences. — British Views. The campaign of 1813 closed in disaster and disgrace. The hopes of the nation, which had been excited by the brilhant achievements w^ith which it opened, sank to despair, when the army, after sustaining a partial defeat, made an abrupt and hasty retreat. The military spirit of the army was lost. New levies of troops were to be made, and the spirit of daring, of confidence, and energy, was to be created before they could take the field. To accomplish these objects. Colonel Scott passed a part of the winter, subsequent to the events on the St. Lawrence, at Albany. There he was engaged in pre- paring the materiel for the next campaign, and, by in- structions from the president, in arranging high pohtico- military questions, with the patriotic Governor Tompkins. The time for the disclosure of the details of these con- sultations, has, perhaps, not arrived. On the 9th of March, 1814, Colonel Scott was pro- moted to the rank of Brigadier-General, and immediately joined Major-General Brown, then marching with the army from the French Mills towards the Niagara frontier. On the 24th inst.. General Brown set out for Sacketts Harbor, expressly for the purpose, as he said, of leaving 100 THE NIAGARA ARM! OF 1814 It to Scott to establish a camp of instruction, and to pre- pare the troops, as they arrived, for opening the cam- paign. The army was rapidly assembled at Buffalo. It con- sisted at that time of Scott's brigade, Ripley's brigade, Hindman's battalion of artillery, (all regulars,) and Por- ter's brigade of militia. Scott's brigade consisted of the battalions of the 9th, the 11th, and the 25th regiments of infantry, with a de- tachment of the 22d, and Towson's company of artillery.^ The brigade of General Ripley was composed of the 1st, 21st, and 23d infantry. Porter's command was com- posed of bodies known as Canadian Volunteers, New York Volunteers, and Penns3dvania Volunteers.^ The signal services rendered by these troops at a subsequent period, and the glory which they won for their country on hard-fought battle-fields, renders it proper that we should record and remember names so justly distinguished in history. These troops were placed in the camp of instruction at Buffalo, where for more than three months they were drilled in all the evolutions and tactics necessary to give them the most accurate and thorough discipline. The modern French system was adopted. All the officers, without regard to rank, were first rigorously drilled by the commanding general, in small squads. These officers then instructed the rank and file in squads, under his eye. Companies were next formed, and subjected to the same process ; then battalions ; and, finally, these again were * 6 Niles's Register, 336. General Brown's Letter. ' 6 Niles, 435. Adjutant-General's Report. THE CAMP OF INSTRUCTION. 101 instructed by General Scott in person. When these de- tails were all learned, the troops were carried by him through the evolutions of the line, (the movement of armies,) with the same strict attention to science and the wants of the field. The effect of this discipline was remarkable, and the results were fully displayed on the fields of Chippewa and Niagara. In the camp of instruction at Buffalo the army, from constant drill, acquired its organization, exact discipline, and habits of hardihood, and of cheerful obedience. Offi- cers and men were taught the proper distribution of du- ties between each other, between the different corps, and the different services. From the formation of a column of attack to the presentation of a salute, and from the 7jiovement in echelon to the exchange of the minutest courtesies,^ they learned alike the substance and the form of those duties of the camp and the field, which are developed in the array and the action of war. The value of discipline, of obedience, and of personal skill in their business, thus acquired by the troops of an army, cannot be over-estimated. For want of it, the brave and gallant (but undisciplined) volunteers of patriot armies have been scattered and driven by veteran soldiers fight- ^ The trifles of courtesy are not unimportant in either military or civil life. If they are but form, they are notwithstanding, like language, the expression of a substance. Of Scott's observance of these, at Buffalo, we have been told the foUov/ing anecdote. He observed a captain pass a sentinel posted. The sentinel saluted him by carrying arms, making the musket ring with the action. The captain passed without acknowledging the salute of the soldier. General Scott sent an aid to him to say, that he (the captain) would take care to repass the sentinel in twenty minutes, and repair the fault, or take a trial before a court-martial. 7* 102 THE ARMY IN MOTION. ing in a worse cause, and having far less of moral motive to sustain them. With it, the soldiers of despots have fought with invincible firmness, choosing graves where they stood, to life in retreat. The armies of Suwarrow would # fall in the ranks, but, without orders, never re- treat. The troops of Great Britain are well disciplined ; and it was in the sharpest contests with them that the army of Niagara soon proved how much it had gained in the camp of instruction at Buffalo.^ The apparent though not unprofitable inactivity which had pervaded the American army of the north, during the spring of 1814, disappeared before the rising heat of the summer sun. In the latter part of June, General Brown returned to Buffalo ; and henceforward the storm of war, wdth its hurried tramp, its loud clangor, its heroic deeds, and its untimely deaths, was heard swift sweeping along the shores of the Niagara. Early in the morning of the 3d of July, Scott's brigade, with the artillery corps of Major Hindman,^ crossed the * Like all other pioneers, both civil and military, the officers of the army of 1812-14 labored under difficulties which cannot now be appre- ciated. It is said that Scott had but one copy of the French Tactics. Of course this had to be explained to individuals, and put in practice suc- cessively on the ground. It was one object of the United States Military Academy at West Point, to avoid these difficulties, and prepare young men by scientific in- struction to discipline the army and prepare the recruits, when war came, for the services of war. This it has done. The tactics and science which were then a novelty in the country, have now been diffiised through the army and the nation. In addition t> this, there are excel- lent and minute treatises for the instruction in tactics, prepared for that express purpose. * Buffalo Gazette, July 5th, published in Niles's Register, vol. vi. p. 337. SURRENDER OF FORT ERIE. 103 river, and landed below Fort Erie, while Ripley's brigade landed above. Scott led the van, crossing in a boat with Colonel Camp, who had volunteered his services, and was on shore before the enemy's piquet fired a gun.^ Fort Erie soon surrendered,^ and preparations^ were immediately made to advance, and attack the army of General Riall at Chippewa. On the morning of the 4th, Scott's brigade, several hours in advance, moved towards Chippewa. For six- teen miles he had a running fight with the Marquis of Tweedale, who commanded the British 100th regiment, till at dusk the latter was driven across Chippewa River, and joined the juain body of the British army under General Riall. The Marquis has since said, that he could not account for the ardor of the pursuit until he recollected the fact that it was the American great anni- versary. That night, Scott took up a position above Street's Creek, two miles from the British camp below Chippe- wa. The interval between these creeks was a plain, on which was fought the battle of Chippewa. The positions of Riall and of Scott on the morning of the 5th may be easily understood. On the east side was the Niagara River, and near it the road to Chippewa. On the west was a heavy wood. Between these, running from the woods to the river, were two streams, the prin- *' 6 Niles's Register, 337. ' 6 Niles, 337. The British garrison of Fort Erie consisted of parts of the 8th and 100th regiments, under the command of Major Burke, of whom 170, including 7 officers, were taken prisoners, and sent to the American side. • General Brown to the Secretary of War, 6 Niles, 344. 104 SKIRMISHES OF THE LIGHT TROOPS. cipal of which was the Chippewa. The other was the small creek above, called Street's. Behind, and below the Chippewa, lay the army of General Riall, with a heavy battery on one side and a blockhouse on the other. Scott's brigade had rested for the night on and above Street's Creek. Over these streams the road to Chippe- wa passed on bridges, the one over Street's near the Americans, and the other over the Chippew^a near the British. This was the position of the respective parties on the m^orning of the 5th,^ when General Brown was expecting to attack the British,^ and they in turn deter- mined to anticipate it, by a sortie from the lines of Chip- pewa. It was a long day in summer ; the earth was dry and dust}^, and the sun bright and hot, when the best troops of Britain and America met, as in tournaments of old, to test their skill, their firmness, and their courage, on the banks of the Niagara. The day began with the skirmishes of light troops. The British militia and Indians occupied the wood on the American left, and about noon annoyed the American piquets placed on that flank. General Porter, with vol- unteers, militia, and some friendly Indians of the Six Nations,^ soon engaged them, and, after some skirmishing, drove them through the wood, back upon Chippewa. Here the British irregulars, finding that their main army under General Riall was advancing, ralhed, and in turn attacked Porter, compelling his command to give way. In spite of his own efforts and personal gallantry, these ' See the account of the Ontario Messenger, republished in 6 Niles, 403. « Brown's letter of July 6th, 6 Niles, 344. • Brown's Report, 6 Niles, 354. THE BRITISH CROSS THE CHIPPEWA. 105 light troops broke and fled, at sight of the formidable array of Riall.^ It was now about four o'clock. General B|-own was then in the wood with Porter; when a clouft of dust arose towards the bridge of Chippewa, and a firing was heard. This apprized him that the British army was advancing. At this very moment. General Scott, in ignorance of the British advance, was moving his bri- gade towards the plain, simply for the purpose of drill. Near the bridge over Street's Creek he met General Brown, w^ho said — " The enemy is advancing. You will have a fight." Beyond this brief remark, Scott received no further orders during the day.^ General Brown passed to the rear, to put Ripley's brigade in motion, and to re- assemble the light troops behind Street's Creek. It was not till he arrived at the bridge, over Street's Creek, two hundred yards to the right of his camp of the night be- fore, that Scott saw the enemy .^ The army of Riall had crossed the bridge over Chippewa, and displayed itself on the plain before described. It was composed^ of the 100th regiment, under Lieutenant- Colonel the Marquis of Tweedale ; the 1 st or Royal Scots, under Lieutenant- Colonel Gordon; a portion of the 8th or King's regiment'; ^ Brown's Report, 6 Niles, 654. ^ Brown's Report says — " The general did not expect to be gratified so soon with a field engagement. He advanced in a most prompt and officer- like style, and in a few minutes was in close action upon the plain with a superior force." '^ A fringe of bushes along the creek, and a clump of trees at the bridge, shut out till then the view of the enemy. * British official report, by Adjutant-General Baynes, found in 6 Niles, 402. 106 ADVANCE OF THE AMERICAN ARMY. a detachment of the Royal Artillery ; a detachment of the Royal 19th Light Dragoons ; and a portion of Canada militia an4"Indians. The main body of these troops were among thebest in the British army. This force was supported by a heavy battery of nine pieces, within point-blank range of the American troops. Under the fire of this battery the corps of Scott passed the bridge in perfect order, but with some loss. His first and second battalions, under Majors Leavenworth and M'Neil, after crossing, formed a line to the front, which brought them opposed respectively to the left and centre of the enemy. The third battalion under Major Jesup obliqued in column to the left, and advanced to attack the right of the enemy, which extended into the wood. Captain Towson with his artillery Avas stationed on the right, resting in the Chippewa road.^ General Scott soon perceived that, although there were no intervals in the British line, yet their right wing out- flanked his left. To remedy this difficulty the movement of Jesup was caused, and the interval between the bat- talions of Leavenworth and M'Neil on the plain, was greatly enlarged. These evolutions were executed rap- idly, and with great precision, under the fire of both mus- ketry and artillery. The action soon became general. Major Jesup now in the wood, and out of view, engaged, and held in check the enemy's right wing. The plain widened on that flank, and the enemy's main line continued to advance. Jes- up having thus held in check one battalion in the wood, the engagement there gave the enemj^ a new right flank ' See Diagram THE ORDER TO m'nEIl's BATTALION. 107 upon the plain. General Scott, who had cor tinned al- ternately to advance, halt, and fire, was now not more than eighty paces from the enemy. The enemy having a new flank, Scott took advantage of the enlarged interval between Leavenworth and M'Neil, to throw the left flank of M'Neil's battalion forward on its right, so that it stood obliquely to the enemy's charge and flanking him a little on his new right. At this moment Scott called aloud to M'Neil's battalion, which had not a recruit in it, — "The enemy say, that we are good at long shot, but cannot stand the cold iron ! I call upon the Eleventh instantly to give the lie to that slander ! Charge !" This move- ment was executed with decisive efl'ect. A correspond- ing charge was also made by Leavenworth, who held an oblique position on our right. These charges were sus- tained by the flank fire of Towson's artillery on the right, and quickly put the enemy to rout. The British army broke, and fled in confusion. In the mean while, and nearly at the same time. Major Jesup, commanding the left flank battalion, finding him- self pressed in front and flank, ordered his men to " sup- port arms and advance." This order was promptly obeyed amidst a deadly and destructive fire.^ Having gained a more secure position, he returned upon the enemy so severe a fire as caused them to retire.^ Thus was the whole British line fairly routed, in a field action, on an open plain. They fled to their intrenchments be- yond the Chippewa, hotly pursued by Scott to the dis- » General Brown's Official Report, dated July 7th, 1814, and contained in 6 Niles's Register, 354. ' Brown's Report, 6 Niles 354. 108 MOVEMENTS OF THE TROOPS. tance of half musket-shot of Chippewa Bridge. He took many prisoners, leaving the plain behind strewed with the dead and wounded of both nations. At this point the active and important part of the battle of Chippewa ended, but we must recall the reader to some of its strictly militar}^ points, before we pursue our stoiy to other and yet bloodier scenes. A charge, in military phrase, is said to be made, when either party stops firing, throws bayonets forward, and advances to the shock, whether the enemy receive it or fly. An ac- tual crossing of bayonets, therefore, is not indispensable to the idea of a charge. To suppose it is, is a mistake. Another popular error is, that the parties come up to the shock in parallel lines. Such a case has rarely, if ever, occurred. Each commander always seeks by mancEU- vring to gain the oblique position, and, if possible, to outflank his enemy. With superior force, both advan- tages may easily be gained ; but with inferior numbers the difliculty is extreme. The excess on the part of the enemy can only be overcome by celerity of movement, accuracy, hardihood, skill, and zeal. At Chippewa, Scott from the first had been obliged, m order to present to the enemy an equal front on the plain, to extend the interval between the first and second battahons to an unusual width. Late in the action, when the parties had approached to within eighty paces, each having several times halted, fired, and advanced, Scott suddenly threw his first battalion a little forward, oblique- ly, on its left, and his second more forward, obliquely, on its right. He at the same time caused Towson's bat tery, on our extreme right, to make a w^heel towards the enemy, now nearly up. The whole of the American TOWSON S RAKING DISCHARGE. 109 infantry, with the shoiu of assured victory, then rushed to the charge !^ Of course, only a few files crossed bayonets at a time, and, from the force of position,^ there were two or three effective American to one British bayonet, at each suc- cessive step. As the enemy advanced, he necessarily became more and more outflanked. This enabled each wing from the first to double some files on the enemy's rear. The flanks so assailed rapidly crumbled away. The process was short. In a few minutes the whole British army broke and fled. It is evident, that in proportion as the Americans ad- vanced, the interval in their line became less and less. Even if Scott had halted to receive the enemy, that in- terval would not have been a weak point, because, in that event, the more the enemy advanced within our line, the more he would have been exposed to a cross and oblique fire from the right and left. When the enemy's battalions, at the beginning, passed from column into line, a part of their artillery became masked by that line. That is, it could no longer, in con- sequence of the intervention of its own friends, fire direct or over upon the American line. Some pieces, however, continued to play upon Towson's battery, immediately in front, and dismounted one of his three guns. Towson also succeeded in dismounting one of theirs. His last raking discharge to the left, just before the shock of the two lines, was terribly destructive. The instant that Leavenworth and M'Neil's battalions were thrown into the oblique positions seen in the dia- » See Diagram. ' Idem. 110 THE MOMENT BEFORE THE CHARGE. gram of the battle, both armies rapidly advancing, Scott galloped to our battery on the right, and called out to Towson — "Captain, more to the left; the enemy is there !" Towson, on foot, and enveloped in smoke, could not see that the enemy's line had advanced inside the range of his last discharge. The gallant captain — than whom no man in the army possessed a greater prowess — instantly changed the direction of his two remaining guns more to the left, and gave the final destructive fire, a second or two before the conflict of bayonets on that flank. We have described the battle of Chippewa in its de- tail, as it was described to us by a scientific soldier. It may be verified by the curious reader, in other ways, both oral and written, open to his inquiry.^ When the action had just commenced, General Brown had hastened to bring up the brigade of Ripley ; and for this purpose the 21st regiment was detached to the left, and moved to the support of Scott, with the intention of attacking the enemy's left ; but they arrived too late. The battle was ended. Such was the activity of Scott's movements, and the impetuosity of his attack, that the enemy were already routed and pursued.^ * General Brown's official report, the British official report by Adju- tant-General Baynes, and the newspaper accounts, all combined and compared, will give a very accurate view of this battle. In addition, reference may easily be made to General Worth, General Jesup, and others who were present and active in the battle. ^ General Brown's Official Report says, that the greatest exertions were made by the 2lst regiment to gain their position in time ; but in vain; for the zeal and gallantry of the line commanded by General Scott was Buch, that its advance upon the enemy was not to be checked. THE PLAIN AND DAY OF CHIPPEWA. Ill The battle of Chippewa was an exciting and in some degree poetic scene. It was fought at the close of a long, bright summer's day. On one side rolled the rapids of the deep Niagara, on the other was seen the verdure of the northern forest. The plain on which the hostile forces met was level and smooth, as if prepared for the meeting of the warriors of ancient knighthood. The best troops of England wheeled into it over Chippewa Bridge, and the regiments of America, cool and disciplined, marched to meet them in combat. The sun shone down, and brilliant arms flashed in his beams. Each movement of the troops was distinct. As the battle deepened, fine bands of music mingled their melody, in sudden bursts, with the roar of artillery and the moans of the wounded. The battle ended, and many were the dead upon that dusty plain, whose last groans had expired with the last rays of the setting sun. Darkness came on, and wearied with battle and thirsty with heat, each army retired to its camp.^ The dead woke not from their bloody beds, and the living sank to rest. The wounded and his watcher, the sentinel and the stars, alone kept the vigils of the night. In the British official account of this battle, the Ameri- can force is represented as numerically superior. The fact was the reverse.^ The British idea was founded prob- * General Brown's Official Report, 6 Niles, 154. ^ There is a tolerably accurate mode of ascertaining this fact. The British adjutant-general's report, dated the 13th July, in giving a return of the killed and wounded, enumerates the 1st regiment, (Royal Scots,) the 8th, (Queen's,) the 100th, (Marquis of Tweedale's,) a detachment of Royal 19th, (dragoons,) a detachment of artillery, and a portion of Canada militia. These regiments were not full ; but there was one battalion of Ihe Scots, and the 8th, and two of the 100th. Their numbers may be 112 THE BRITISH FORCE NUMERICALLY SUPERIOR. ably on the supposition that the whole of General Brown's army was engaged. This, we have seen, was far from being the fact. The reserve under General Ripley was not in the action, in any degree. The detachment of General Porter, after the first skirmishes in advance, broke, returned to the rear, and weie not again engaged. Of the artillery under Major Hindman, one company only, that of Tow son, was engaged. In fact, only Scott's brigade was engaged in the main battle. This brigade was constituted as we have nar- rated in the beginning of this chapter.^ At this distance of time, we have opportunities of com- paring the accounts, both of the official reports and of personal combatants in the field ; of writers who wrote flushed with the excitement of the action, and of those who calmly sought truth, when the action existed only as an event of history. With this comparison made, and with these views examined, we conclude, that the battle of Chippewa was fought, in regard to the actual combat, by the Americans, with rather inferior forces ; was fought on an open plain with no peculiar advantage to either party ; and was fairly won by the Americans, opposed to some of the best troops of Europe.^ thus stated— Royal Scots, 400 ; 8th, 400 ; 100th, 800 ; artillery, dragoons, and militia, 500 ; in all, about 2100 men. The American troops were, the 9th, 11th, and 25th infantrj', with a detachment of the 22d, Towson's artillery, and Porter's volunteers. The three regiments of infantry may be called 1400, though probably less; the residue about 500, making 1900. In this account light troops are counted an both sides. * Page 100. ' The Royal Scots, the 100th, and the Queen's Own, were claimed to be among the best of the British troops. EFFECTS OF THE BATTLE OF CHIPPEWA. 113 The victory, therefore, though attended by no actual conquest, was valuable to the American people. It taught them, and it inspired all ranks of the army with the knowledge, that our troops, when properly instructed, were equal in courage and coolness, in devotion and dis- cipline, to those whose skill and experience had been ac- quired in the Peninsula of Spain, or under the warm sun of India. This knowledge came when its inspiration was needed. Along this line of Canada frontier, whence so much had been expected, one general had surrendered with shame ;^ another had retreated, to the disappointment of the country;^ and a third had refused to advance, and retired to inactivity.^ This gloomy period had indeed been relieved by the defeat of Proctor ; but there had been too many mis fortunes or disasters on the northern frontier, not to leave a degree of doubt and uncertainty on the popular mind, respecting the vigor and discipline of our land forces. The battle of Chippewa removed this impression. It blazed up from apparently sinking fires, and illuminated the horizon of hope, not so much by the magnitude as by the brilliancy of its light. Let us turn a moment from the American, to the views ,taken by English writers of this sanguinary action. They, at least, will not be too partial to America. An English periodical of that day, says — "On reading the two accounts (English and American) of the same affair, one is forcibly struck with the oppo- site statements they contain, and which it would be a vain task in me to reconcile. We, as is natural, will be in- » Hull. ' Wilkinson. " Hampton. 8 114 VIEWS OF BRITISH WRITERS. clined to believe our general, while the Americans will, as naturally, believe theirs." * * * * * * * " But, whatever may be said as to this, there can be no difference of opinion as to the more important feature in it, namely, the undaunted bravery of the Ameri- cans, and the little hope this affords, that the contest will soon be terminated." * * * * " I do not think there is evidence, that the British army, at or near the scene of action, was upwards of four thousand strong, while the enemy was under three thou- sand."i * * * * * * * a Numerous as were the battles of Napoleon, and brave as were his soldiers, I do not believe that even he, the greatest warrior that ever lived, can produce an instance of a contest so well maintained, or, in pro- portion to the numbers engaged, so bloody, as that of Chippewa."^ * * * * ^ The reference of the writer here is obviously to those tliat composed the entire armies of Riall and Brown, and not to those actually engaged. ^ The killed, wounded, and prisoners, in the battle of Chippewa, were returned as follows : — American Official Report. Killed. Wounded. Missir Artillery, (Towson's ,) 4 16 — 9th infantry. 13 44 — 22d " 8 44 — 25th " 5 68 — 11th " 15 60 _ Porter's Volunteers, 12 13 17 Ripley's brigade, 3 3 2 60 248 19 Total, 327. BRAVERY OF THE AMERICAN TROOPS. 115 " The important fact is, that we have now got an ene- my who fights as bravely as ourselves. For some time, the Americans cut no figure on land. They have now proved to us that they only wanted time to acquire a little discipline. They have now proved to us what they are made of, and they are the same sort of men as those who captured Avhole armies under Burgoyne and Cornwallis ; that they are neither to be frightened nor silenced ; and that if we should beat them at last, we cannot expect to do it without expending three or four hundred millions of money, keeping up all our present taxes, and adding to their amount, or imposing new taxes. These are the facts that are now proved to us. These are the natural consequences of battles such as that of' Chippewa." * * * u ^jnerica will have carried on a war single- handed against us ; she will have, through the world, the reputation of having been able alone to beat England ; for, to defend herself against us is, in such a case, to beat us. Other nations, sore at the sight of our predomi- nance on the sea, will look up to America as the balance against us. They will naturally seek a connection with Bri tish Official Report. Killed. Wounded. Missing. Artillerj^ 1 4 — Royal Scots, 53 135 30 8th, (or King's,) 3 24 — 100th regiment, 69 134 1 Militia, 12 16 15 13th Dragoons, — 5 — 138 319 46 Total, 503. Total loss. , 830 in less than 4000 men. 116 a country offering innumei^ble sources of beneficial in- tercourse." * * * * This language may be stronger than what many Ameri- cans would be willing to use ; but is it not justified by the facts, and by the consequences ? Soon after the battle of Chippewa, our arms acquired other victories, both in the north and in the south. Since the war, as the writer predicted, our alliance has been courted and our commerce sought, by every nation on the habitable globe. We shall close the history of the field of Chippewa with the testimony of him who, alike by station and by skill, was the best witness to the gallant actions of his brave and devoted soldiers. General Brown, in his Official Report,^ observes — " My most difficult duty remains to be performed. I am depressed with the fear of not being able to do justice to my brave companions in arms, and apprehensive that some who had an opportunity of distinguishing them- selves, and promptly embraced it, will escape my notice. " Brigadier-General Scott is entitled to the highest praise our country can bestow — to him more than any other man am I indebted for the victory of the 5th of July. His brigade covered itself with glory. Every officer and every man of the 9th and 22d, 11th and 25th regiments, did his duty with a zeal and energy worthy of the American character. When every ofi&cer stands so pre-eminently high in the path of duty and honor, it is impossible to discriminate, but I cannot deprive myself of the pleasure of saying, that Major Leavenworth com- manded the 9th and 22d, Major Jesup the 25th, and ' Brown's Official Report, 6 JN'iles, 354. IMPORTANCE OF THE BATTLE OF CHIPPEWA 117 Major M'Neil the llth. Colonel Campbell was wounded early in the action, • gallantly leading on his regiment. "The family of General Scott (his military staff) were conspicuous in the field ; Lieutenant Smith of the 6th in- fantry, major of brigade, and Lieutenants Worth^ and Watts, his aids. " From General Ripley and his brigade I received every assistance that I gave them an opportunity of ren- dering. I did not order any part of the reserve into ac- tion until General Porter's command had given way, and then General Scott's movements were so rapid and de- cisive, that General Ripley could not get up in time with the 21st, to the position, as directed." The battle of Chippewa, we have already shown, was important in raising the self-estimation of the American people, in regard to militarj^ service on land, in open field combat. It was likewise important intrinsically, to the glory and reputation of American arms, both at home and abroad. General Brown has said, in the preceding Report, that to General Scott more than to any other man was he in- debted for the victory of the 5th of July ; and that he was entitled to the highest praise his country could be- stow. No stronger language than this can be used. The ^ Lieutenant Worth, here mentioned, is now Brigadier-General Worth. He was for several years commander of the battalion of cadets at West Point, and subsequently one of the commanders in the Florida war. The promotions made for the campaign of Niagara were as follows : Honorary Brevets — Brigadier-General Scott, Major-General ; Majors Leavenworth, Jesup, and M'Neil, Lieutenant-Colonels ; Captains Crooker, Towson, Harrison, and Austin, Majors ; Lieutenant Worth, Captain ; 2d Lieutenant Watts, 1st Lieutenant. 8* 118 CHARACTER OF GENERAL SCOTT. foregoing narrative has pi1)ved, that the commander-in- chief was not mistaken. Scott was the actual com- mander of the forces engaged in battle ; and when the day closed, it was not mijust, that to him was assigned the freshest and greenest leaf from the many-laurelled plain of Chippewa. It is also just to inquire, what, and by what means ac- quired, were those qualities, by which he became a con- spicuous and successful soldier. • The reader will recollect, that we described Scott, after his suspension for words used against Wilkinson, as en- gaged sedulously, in the house of B. W. Leigh, Esq., in the study of the science of his profession. It was a val- uable study to him. Then, and at subsequent periods, he acquired that systematic and technical knowledge of the discipline, organization, and movement of troops, which makes military knowledge, like other systematic branches of learning, practically an art and theoretically a science. In the Camp of Buffalo, likewise, Scott had shown his acquaintance with the French military tactics, till then not introduced into the American service, and this know- ledge was made available to the discipline of the troops. In his natural character, Scott was daring, ardent, zealous, and quick to perceive. With such qualities, natural and acquired, we at once find a reason for the rapid development of his military talents in the field of action. There we find displayed great personal courage, bold enterprise, and the utmost promptitude of move- ment, united with a cool presence of mind, and the most ready resource in difficulty. These are the quahties of an able geheral, and as such, were developed in him on the northern frontier. THE AMERICANS CROSS THE CHIPPEW4 121 CHAPTER IX. 1814. American Army crosses the Chippewa. — Demonstration towards Burh'ng- ton Heights. — Battle of Niagara. — Scott wounded and disabled. The army of the north had scarcely rested from its labors at Chippewa, when it was. called to the still more sanguinary field of Niagara. The second day after the battle of the 5th, the American troops forced their way over Chippewa River. In this, Scott's brigade led, and the enemy retreated before him. After the campaign of 1813, Fort Messasauga was erected near the mouth of Niagara River, and added to the defences of Fort George. These forts General Riall, the British commander, reinforced, and then re- tired to Burlington Heights, near the head of Lake On- tario. It was the object of General Brov^ai to capture these defences before commencing any ulterior opera- tions. To accomplish this, he sent to Sacketts Harbor for heavy cannon, which were to have been transported by the American vessels.-^ At this time, hoAvever, Com- modore Chauncey lay sick, and the enemy had a mo- mentary superiority on the lake.^ The intentions of the ^ General Brown's Letter to the Secretary of War, July 25th, 1814, 6 Niles, 411. , « Idem. 6 m 122 GEN. BROWN S PLAN OF ATTACK. commander, therefore, in regard to the forts at the mouth of the Niagara, were disappointed. General Brown determined then to attack BurHngton Heights ; but, to induce the enemy to descend, and at the same time draw a small supply of provisions from Schlosser,^ he masked his intentions, by feigning a re- treat up the Niagara, recro'ssed the Chippewa, and en camped. Had this movement failed to w^ithdraw the British troops from the Heights, it was intended to use the 25th as a day of rest, and on the 26th to send Scott forward by the road from Queenstown, and force Riall to action, no matter how strongly he might be posted. Events de- termined otherwise, and what was meant to be a day of rest, was converted into the most active and bloody day of the campaign. In the afternoon of tlie 25th, amidst general relaxation General Brown received a note from a colonel of militia whose regiment occupied two or three posts on the American side of the Niagara, stating in the most precise terms, that the enemy had thrown a thousand men across from Queenstown to Lewiston, nine miles below the Chippewa, for some object not exactly understood. Brown conjectured that there was an intention to capture our magazines at Schlosser, and to intercept supplies coming down from Buffalo. In order to recall him from this object,^ Brown immediately determined to threaten the forts at the mouth of the Niagara. In less than twenty minutes Scott's command was put in motion for that purpose.^ His force consisted of four small bat- » Brown's Official Report, 6 Niles, 433. « j^^^^ a j^^j^ m SCOTT S BRIGADE SENT IN ADVANCE. 123 talions, under Colonel Brady,^ and Majors Jesup, Leav- enworth, and M'Neil ; Captain Towson's artillery, and Captain Harris's detachment of regular and volunteer cavalry ; in all amounting to tliirteen hundred men. There was not time to call in the guards which belonged to those corps. About two miles from the camp, and just above the Falls, Scott discovered a few British officers, mounted, who, as it turned out, were in advance to reconnoitre, and soon learned that the enemy was in some little force be- low, and only intercepted from the view by a narrow wood. In this situation, Scott for a moment reflected on what course should be pursued. He was instructed to march rapidly on the forts, under positive information (given as we have narrated to General Brown,) that Riall had, three hours before, thrown half his force across the Nia- gara. Reflecting that the whole had been beaten on the 5th inst., he lost no time in reconnoitring, but dashed forward to disperse what he thought was the remnant of the British army opposed to him. After dispatching Assistant Adjutant-General Jones^ to General Brown with the information that the enemy was in front, he proceeded to pass the wood, just below For- sythe's House. There he was greatly astonished to find, directly in front, drawn up in order of battle, on Lundy's Lane,^ a larger force even than that he had encountered at Chippewa twenty days before ! The position he was » Brown's Official Report, 6 Niles, 433. ' Brown's Report. • Drummond's General Order, 26th July, 6 Niles, 439. rj 124 SCOTT ENCOUNTERS SUPERIOR NUMBERS. in, was extremely critical. To stand fast was out of the question, being already under a heavy fire of the enemy's artillery and musketry. To retreat was equally haz- ardous ; for there is always, in such a case, the proba- bihty of confusion, and, at this time, the danger of creating a panic in the reserve, then supposed to be coming up, and which had not been in the previous battle. Scott saw that no measure but one of boldness would succeed. He therefore determined to maintain the battle against superior numbers and position till the reserve came up, thus giving General Riall the idea that the whole American army was at hand. This would prevent him from profiting by his numerical strength to attack our flanks and rear. He would thus lose the initial, a matter of no small importance in military enterprises. The scheme succeeded.^ For a long time the enemy was kept on the defensive, till the American reserve had come up and entered into the action. In the mean while Scott had sent back to General Brown, Lieutenant Douglass,^ as well as Major Jones, to report the condition of affairs. The first was to report that the remnant of Riall's army was manoeuvring to pro- tect the detachment thrown over the Niagara ; the second was to inform the general, that so far from being dimin- ished, the British army was actually reinforced, and thus to hasten up the reserve. * It appears from Drummond's General Order, 26th July, in 6 Niles, 439, that he thought his positionin Lundy's Lane was attacked by the whole American army. He thanks the army for " repulsing all the efforts of a numerous and determined enemy to carry the position of Lundy's Lane." ' Lieutenant D. B. Douglass of the Engineers, afterwards professor at West Point, and subsequently president of Kenyon College, Ohio. THE BRITISH CONTINUALLY REINFORCED. 125 On the British side the facts were these. In the night before, the night of the 24th, Lieutenant-General Sir Gordon Drummond had arrived, in the British fleet, at the mouth of the Niagara, with a large reinforcement from Kingston and Prescott. This was wholly unknown to General Brown ! Drummond had, in advance, sent instructions to Riall to meet him on the 25th on the Niagara. Accordingly, Riall had marched down the very road it had been arranged that Scott was to take on the 26th. He had come by Queenstown without putting a man across the Niagara ! He had continued his route, as the advance of Drummond's army, towards the Falls. On the way, he had already been joined by two of the battalions which had just come up in the fleet. The others arrived successively, at intervals of half an hour or an hour, after the action had commenced. The battle began about forty minutes before sunset, and, like its predecessor at Chippewa, was the closing drama of a long and warm summer's day. Like that too, it signalized among the affairs of men a spot which in the world of nature had been rendered illustrious by one of the great and glorious works of God. When the battle was about to begin, just as the setting sun sent his red beams from the west, they fell upon the spray, which continually goes up, like incense, from the deep, dashing torrent of Niagara. The bright light was divided into its primal hues, and a rainbow rose from the waters, encircling the head of the advancing column !^ In a more superstitious age, ^ This incident is related by an officer who was present in the battle It is well known, that one of the most beautiful phenomena of the Falls is the formation of rainbows, both lunar and solar, at all times when the ^f 126 POSITION OF THE ENEMY. such a sign would have been regarded, hke the Roman auguries, as a precursor of victory. Even now, this bow of promise furnished the inspiration of hope, with the colors of beauty. The hue which now opened its fire upon Scott, at the distance of one hundred and fifty paces, was already eighteen hundred strong. It was well po'sted in Lundy's Lane, a ridge nearly at right angles with the Niagara River, a little below the cataract. Its left was on the road parallel to the river, with a space covered with brushwood, of some two hundred yards, between. Scott, observing this interval, soon ordered Major Jesup, sus- tained by Colonel Brady, to take advantage of it, and, concealed by the bushes and twilight, to turn the enemy's left. The other battalions had been before promptly de ployed into line, and the action joined by it (Brady on the right) and Towson's artillery. The small detachments of cavalry on both sides were held in reserve. The enemy, finding after some tirrte that he outflanked us on the left, threw forward a battalion to take us in flank and rear. Scott, although with inferior numbers, caused this move- ment to be promptly met and repelled by Major M'Neil's battalion, but with great loss on both sides. At the same moment, the action in front was desperately contested by Brady, now in line, and by Leavenworth and Towson. Major Jesup had succeeded in his movement. He had taken Major-General Riall,^ and several other officers, state of the weather is favorable. I once heard Dr. Percival, the poet, describe with great fervor the appearance of a rainbow, formed by the moonbeams near midnight, on the spray of the cataract. Such a scene was indeed filled with the poetry of nature. * Major Ketchum, of the 25th regiment of infantry, who died in the THE CONFLICT IN THE. NIGHT. 127 prisoners, and then gallantly charged back, (cutting off a portion of the enemy's left wing,) reappearing, and re- suming his position in line. The battle had commenced before sunset. The twi - light had gone, and the action was continued into the night. It was now nine o'clock. The enemy's right had been beaten back from its flank assault with great loss. His left was turned and cut off. His centre alone re- mained firm. It was posted on a ridge, and supported by nine pieces of artillery. Another battalion of Drummond's reinforcements had army, August 30th, 1828, was the officer who personally made Genera Riall a prisoner. The British General was brought to Scott by Majo! Ketchum, and directions were given that the distinguished prisoner should be taken to the rear, and treated with the greatest possible kindness, Riall, badly wounded, lay some days at the same house in Williamsvillej (eleven miles east of Buffalo,) with Scott, yet more severely crippled. The latter, as a special favor to himself, obtained permission from our government, for Riall to return to England on parole, and the same per- mission for Riall's friend. Major Wilson, also badly wounded, who had been captured at Chippewa. We have already said, that Scott obtained the same favor in behalf of a colonel made prisoner by him at Fort George, the year before. Such favors were, however, at that time, only granted by the American government ; Sir George Provost and the British ministry never consented to place on parole, or to exchange a prisoner, after the Americans confined the twenty-three hostages in 1813. Sir Phineas Riall has been promoted to a full general, (above the British rank of Lieutenant-General,) made a knight of several orders, ap- pointed Governor of Tobago, and otherwise rewarded by his government. The major who returned to England with him is now Sir John Morillyou Wilson, and attached to one of the royal households. It was he who ad- dressed a letter to General Scott in 1841, (which has been published,) re- specting his Mississippi bonds, in which he had invested the little savings of forty years service, together with his wife's property, induced thereto by his unbounded confidence in the American character I # 128 GENERAL BROWN ARRIVES WITH THE RESERVE. already arrived, and a fourth was only a few miles be- hind. Such was the state of the field, when Major- General Brown arrived, a little in advance of our reserve. He insisted on having all the particulars, reported to him previously by the detached staff-officers mentioned, explained and confirmed to him by the lips of Scott. At this point. General Brown in his official report^ takes up the narrative, from his own personal observation. We select a few extracts in continuance of the history. After speaking of Scott's brigade, and its position in the first part of the battle, he says — " Apprehending that these corps were much exhausted, and knowing that they had suffered' severely, I determined to interpose a new line with the advancing troops, and thus disengage Gen- eral Scott, and hold his brigade in reserve. Orders were accordingly given to General Ripley. The enemy's ar- tillery at this moment occupied a hill, which gave him great advantages, and was the key to the whole position. It was supported by a line of infantry. To secure the victory, it was necessary to carry this artillery and seize the height. This duty was assigned to Colonel Miller.^ "He (Colonel Miller) advanced steadily and gallantly to his object, and carried the height and the cannon. Gen- eral Ripley brought up the 23d, which had faltered, to his support, and the enemy disappeared from before them. * * * * The enemy rallying his forces, and, as is be- lieved, having received reinforcements, now attempted to drive us from our position and regain his artillery. Our » Brown's Official Report, 6 Niles, 433. ' Afterwards Brigadier-General Miller, Governor of Arkansas, and collector at Salem, Massachusetts. COLONEL MILLERS FAMOUS REPLY. 129 line was unshaken and the enemy repulsed. Two other attempts, having the same object, had the same issue. General Scott was again engaged in repelling the former of these ; and the last I saw of him on the field of battle, he was near the head of his column, and giving to its march a direction that would have placed him on the enemy's right. ******* Having been for some time wounded, and being a good deal exhausted by loss of blood, it became my wish to devolve the command on General Scott, and retire from the field, but, on inquiry, I had the misfortune to learn that he was disabled by wounds ;^ I therefore kept my post, and had the satisfac- tion to see the enemy's last effort repulsed." The crisis of this engagement was the moment when the enemy's battery, which from its position commanded the field of action, was stormed by Miller's regiment. The diagram exhibits the position of the troops at that moment. This charge was one of the finest achieve- ments of the American army. General Brown said to the gallant Miller — " Sir, can you take that battery ?" "1 WILL TRY," was the reply of the bluff soldier — a phrase now become familiar to all American lips. Scott, who was perfectly acquainted with the ground, conducted Miller, in the darkness of the night, some distance, till he had the ricrht direction. He then returned to renew the at- o tack in front, in order to favor the movement of Miller.^ ^ This was a mistake. Scott had been badly wounded an hour before, but not yet disabled. Having lost a second horse, he was now on foot, and was finally laid prostrate, by a ball through the left shoulder-joinl> just at the close of the battle. Brown was taken from the field a few minutes earlier. " General Brown, in his Official Report, does not claim the suggestion 9 130 NEW POSITION OF THE AMERICANS. The enemy's battery being taken, and the ridge previ- ously occupied by the enemy being gained, the American army changed position. It was now drawn up nearly at right angles to the lane, with its back to the river. Scott was on the right, Ripley in the centre, and Porter, with the militia, on the left. In this new position, the American line generally acted on the defensive. The British desired to recover the ground they had lost, and made several assaults. These were as often re- pulsed ; but the enemy would again rally and return to the charge. of the movement by Miller, and the successful assault on the enemy's artillery. Neither does he attribute it to any one else. He simply says, that it was necessary to carry the enemy's battery, and that Colonel Miller was assigned to this task. The fair inference from the report of Brown is, that he did not feel certain, or assured, as to who, if any one in particular did, suggest the idea of this charge. Armstrong, in his Notices of the War, says, that " the attention of all" was drawn to the British battery, and that " the senior engineer (McRee) gave his de- cided opinion that it was necessary to the success of the day ' to storm the British battery.'" (Armstrong's Notices of the War of 1812, vol. ii. p. 92.) But this does not affirm who made the suggestion. It only affirms that this was McRee's opinion, and so it was. An officer of the staif in that battle stated to us, that he thought the idea was advanced by McRee who, meeting Brown coming up, stated this to the commander. But, at the same time, the necessity of such a charge was so obvious, that all assented to it at once. We deem it immaterial to the purpose of this his- tory, who made an abstract suggestioH of that charge, when it is so well known who were the efficient actors on that bloody field. Scott was better acquainted with the ground than any other man ; and when the charge was made, he conducted Miller in the darkness of the night to the gap, where he turned up Lundy's Lane. This fact affi)rds some reason to believe that the idea originated with Scott himself ; but it is quite proba- ble, that such was the instant and obvious crisis of the battle, that several minds seized upon it at the same time, a fact that is by no means un- common in regard to new suggestions. CHARGES OF SCOTT S BRIGADE. 131 It was in one of these contests General Brown had last seen Scott. About that time, the latter had twice formed small portions of his brigade into column, advanced, charged the British line, also advancing, pierced it, and compelled it to fall back.^ In such a battle, with such impetuous courage, Scott was necessarily exposed to all the dangers of the field. Two horses were killed under him. In the midst of the action, he was wounded in the side. At eleven o'clock in the night, he was disabled by a wound from a musket-ball through the ]eft shoulder. His aid, Lieutenant Worth, and his brigade-major. Smith, were also both severely wounded. The contest closed by the possession of the field of battle by the Americans, and the capture of the enemy's cannon. The world has seen mightier armies moved over more memorable fields, and followed by louder notes of the far-resounding trumpet of fame ; but a bloodier scene for those engaged,^ a severer trial of courage and of dis- cipline, or one whose action was more closely associated * Armstrong's Notices, vol. ii. p. 92. " The troops engaged on the American side were the same as com- posed General Brown's army on crossing the Niagara. The British had, however, been reinforced by the 89th regiment, the 103d, and the 104th. The losses on both sides were as follows — American Loss. British Loss. Killed, 171 Killed, 84 Wounded, 572 Wounded, 559 Prisoners, 117 Prisoners, 235 Total, 860 Total, 878 These numbers are taken from the official reports. 132 THE MOON IS OBSCURED BY CLOUDS. with the subhme and beaut^^iil in nature, the world has not seen. The armies were drawn out near the shores of that rapid river whose current mingles lake with lake. Hard by, was that cataract whose world of waters rushes over the precipice, and, rushing, roars into the gulf below ! The ceaseless spray rises up, like incense to the eternal Father ! The beams of sun, and moon, and stars, fall ceaselessly on that spray, and are sent back in many-colored hues to the source of light ! So was it when, wheehng into the field of battle, the slant beams of the setting sun, returning from the spray, encircled the advancing column with rainbow colors ! The sun went down, to many an eye, no more to rise on earth ! With the darkness came the greater rage of battle — charge after charge was made. For a time the faint beams of the moon struggled Avith the smoke, and gave a little light to the combatants ; but it was but little. The moon itself became obscured, and no light, save the rapid flashes of musket and cannon, pierced the heavy clouds. The fight raged in the darkness of the night. From the height on the ridge, the battery of the enemy still poured its deadly fire. It was then that the gallant Miller said, " I will try." It was then that Scott piloted his column through dark- ness to Lundy's Lane. It was then that brave regiment charged to the cannon's mouth. The battery was taken. The victory rests with the American army. It was midnight.. The battle is ended. The army, faint and weary, drags itself from the bloody plain.^ ^ Brown's Official Report (6 Niles, 434) says — " While retiring from the field, I saw and felt that the victory was complete on our part, if proper measures were promptly adopted to secure it. The exhaustion of CLOSE OF THE BATTLE OF NIAGARA. 133 The well sink to their couch to dream of homes far away .'^ The wounded groan in their painful hospitals. The dead rest till the last trumpet shall summon them to the last array ! The warrior, with his garments rolled in olood, has left the scene of struggles, pains, and death ! Some kind friend may have sought him, whether alive or dead ; but the war-drum had ceased to beat; the artillery ceased to roll ; and now the solemn, sonorous fall of Niagara is to the dead their requiem, and to the living their song of glory ! The battle of Niagara has been, by mistake or accident, commonly called in the United States, the battle of Bridgewater.^ In the official report of the British general it was called the battle of Lundy's Lane. It has been usage, however, to call a battle, or other important event, from the most remarkable object near the scene of action. the men was, however, such as made some refreshment necessary. They particularly required water." ^ The " Soldier's Dream," under circumstances like these, has been the theme of one of Campbell's most beautiful productions — " And thousands had sunk on the ground overpowered. The weary to sleep and the wounded to die. ****** " At the dead of the night a sweet vision I saw, And thrice ere the morning I dreamt it again. " Methought, from the battle-field's dreadful array, Far, far, I had roamed on a desolate track ; 'Twas autumn, and sunshine arose on the way To the home of my fathers, that welcomed me back." ^ About a mile above the field of battle and the Falls, there are mills on a side-cut called the Bridgewater Mills. A postmaster attached to the army, on the American side of the river, wrote a letter to the interior, 9# 134 THE MEMORY OF THE BRAVE WHO DIE. Fought, as this battle -was, near that mighty cataract w^hich makes one of the wonders of nature, on either side of the Atlantic ; fought too with a courage and a con- stancy worthy of such an association, why should it not be named from those loud, sounding waters ? Let it then be called, The Battle of Niagara.^ Let the memory of the dead,^ and the fame of the living, roll on with those waters to the distant future ! saying, a great battle was then raging (10 o'clock at night) near those mills. The universal publication of that letter, before any official report, caused the confusion in the name of this action. ^ Niagara was the name given to this battle in the Albany ArguSy (See 6 Niles, 414.) " It commands," says the Argus, " like the achieve- ments of our naval heroes, the admiration of all classes of the American people, a few excepted." a The late poem, Festus, by Mr. Bailey, has the following lines — ■ " No I the brave Die never. Being deathless, they but change Their country's arms for more — their country's heart. Give then the dead their due — it is they who saved us.'* RIPLEY RETURNS TO THE CAMP. 135 CHAPTER X. 1814. Retreat of the American Army. — Drummond besieges Fort Erie. — As- sault of the British on Fort Erie. — Sortie of the Americans from Fort Erie. — Retreat of the British army. — Close of the Campaign. We must leave, for a time, the wounded Scott to the applause of his countrymen, so richly deserved, and so freely bestowed, while we briefly describe the closing deeds of the army of Niagara. We have accompanied it through so many scenes of danger and of glory, that we cannot abandon it till the peace, which occurred but six months subsequently, relieved it from the toil and trouble, the hazards and difficulties of war. General Brown had been taken, wounded, from the field of Niagara. Towards the close of the battle, Scott also, twice wounded, and now exhausted, w^as borne out of the action. General Brown did not, however, at once resign the command.^ He directed General Ripley to return to camp, after bringing off the dead, the wounded, and the artillery.^ This was done, but unfortunately, for the want of horses, harness, and drag-ropes, the captured artillery of the enemy was left behind^ — a circumstance much regretted. * Brown's Official Report. ' Armstrong's Notices of the War, vol. ii. p. 94. ^ Idem. 136 PRUMMOND BOMBARDS FORT ERIE. The army fell back to Chippewa, and there converted the works thrown up by the enemy into defences against him. On the report that General Drmnmond, at the head of a heavy British column, was fast approaching, the American camp was hastily broken up, its position aban- doned, and a retreat made to the ferry, opposite Black Rock. At this point General Brown ordered the division to remain at Fort Erie, directed the engineers McRee and Wood to repair the old fort, and make such defences as were in their power ; at the same time ordering Briga- dier-General Gaines to assume the command.^ A week after this, on the 3d August, General Drum- mond appeared in the neighborhood of Fort Erie, and, finding it impossible to carry it by storm, w^as compelled to make a regular investment. Between the 3d and 12th of August, Drummond em- ployed himself in endeavoring to cut oif the American pro- visions, and in the preparatory measures of opening trenches, and establishing batteries.^ On the morning of the 13th, he commenced a cannonade and bombardment. This was continued through the day, renewed in the mxorning of the 14th, and continued till seven o'clock in the evening; but without any serious injury to the Ameri- can works. On that day. General Gaines doubled his guards, and prepared to receive an assault. At two o'clock on the morning of the 15th, a heavy British column was found approaching Towson's battery, stationed at the northwest angle of the w^ork, where it was received b;^ the cannon of Tow son, and the musketry of the 25th ' Armstrong's Notices, vol. ii. pp. 9G-97. " Idem. General Gaines's Official Report, ASSAULT OF THE BRITISH ARMY. 137 regiment, under the gallant Major Wood, and effectually repulsed. A sec6nd attack was also repulsed, when the British column changed its direction and attacked the western angle, but wuth as little success. In the mean time the central column of the enemy- pressed on the line of intrenchment between the batteries of Towson and Wilhams ; but, like the first column, it was soon checked. The British third column was, for a time only,tnore successful. After several repulses, it got possession of the exterior bastion of the old fort. The Americans attempted to regain it, but failed. Just at this moment, a quantity of cartridges in a small stone building within the bastion, exploded, scattering death and confusion around, and expelling the British from the forfe^ They suffered severely, having left behind a large number of killed, wounded, and prisoners." In fine, the British were most gallantly and effectually defeated, in their attempt to storm Fort Erie. /, On the 2d of September, General Brown, though not yet recovered from his wounds, resumed the command of his division. After a full , examination of the topographical position of Drummond's lines, he thought a bold and ^ Gaines's Official Report, 7 Niles, 19. " The relative loss of the British and Americans may be thus staled from official reports — American Loss. British Loss. Killed, 17 Killed, 57 Wounded, 56 Wounded, 309 Missing, 11 Missing, 539 Total, 84 Total, 905 Adjutant-General Jones's Adjutant-General Baynes's Report. Report. 138 SORTIE FROM FaRT ERIE. vigorous sortie might do more than mere defence, in re lieving the American army from the siege of the enemy. Accordingly, on the morning of the 17th of September, General Brown paraded his troops, to the number of about two thousand, in nearly equal proportions of regulars and militia, for a sortie on the enemy's works. The army of Sir Gordon Drummond had then invested Fort Erie regularly, for about fifty days.^ During that time, they had erected regular lines and batteries. They had bombarded the American defences, and made, as we have seen, an unsuccessful attack upon them. At this time they had erected two batteries, and were about to open a third.^ Their force was divided into three bri- gades, each of which in turn guarded the batteries, while the other two were encamped about two miles distant, out of reach of the American cannon, but near enough to support the troops at the batteries. In this position of affairs, General Brown determined to storm the batteries, destroy the cannon, and defeat the brigade.^ At half-past two, P. M., of the 17th, the American columns salHed out, and the action commenced. So successful w^as this enterprise, that in thirty minutes from its commencement, batteries numbered 2 and 3 were in possession of the Americans, with two blockhouses. Soon after. No. 1 was abandoned, and the magazine of » General Brown's Official Report, 7 Niles, 100. " Idem. ' This is General Brown's declared object, as stated in his official letter. The loss of the respective parties was nearly as follows : the American Official Report gives — killed, 79 ; wounded, 216 ; missing, 216 ; total, 511. We have not the official British report ; but the prisoners taken by the Americans were returned, by the inspector-general, at 385. General Brown stated their total loss at near a thousand. RETREAT OF THE ENEMY. ' 139 No. 3 blown up. The cannon were spiked or dismounted. All the labor of the previous inv.estment was destroyed. So great was the British loss, that it became apparent, that the siege of Fort Erie could no longer be protracted with any hope of success.^ Accordingly, Lieutenant-General Drummond broke up his camp during the night of the 21st of September, and retired to his intrenchments behind the Chippewa.^ By the 10th of November, the American army retired into wunter-quarters, at Buffalo, and the war on the Niag- ara frontier was in fact ended. During the year 1814, it had been a succession of brilliant military actions, in which much blood was shed, and much of courage, skill, and energy, exhibited. Taken all and all, no cam- paign in American history has displayed more of the qualities of mind and bod)^, art and science, which are necessary to the character of a true soldier, or the suc- cess of an army in action. In a little less than three months the army of Riall and Drummond, twice re- newed and reinforced by troops sent from Europe, had been defeated in four pitched battles ! In the two first of these, Chippewa and Niagara, where the armies met in open field fight, Scott was the real leader, the man, as Brown said in his report, to whom, more than to any other, victory was due. In the two last actions, the same army was engaged ; and, without diminishing aught of the praise or glory due to others, may it riot be said, that the discipline he had inculcated, and the noble example he had given, were the parents of that energy and good Brown's Official Report, 7 Niles, 100. " Idem. 140 COMPARISON OF THE TWO ARMIES. • conduct with which the army of Niagara continued to renew its glory and freshen its laurels ? The zeal, courage, firmness, and discipline, with which troops perform the business of a campaign, encounter its bloody issues, and endure the perils alike of death or de- feat, do not depend on numbers, or on results ; but on the intrinsic qualities of the action, and the degree of its danger, detriment, or difficulty. Thus, in the combats on the Niagara frontier, there was extreme personal danger, there was great coolness and self-command in action, and there was a discipline and a fortitude, which could hardly be surpassed in the most veteran armies, under the most experienced commanders. In the descriptions w^e have given of the several battles the numbers Engaged on either side are stated in each one, as near as the materials preserved by history will allow us to estimate. Both armies were, however, suc- cessively reinforced by fresh troops. It is therefore diffi- cult to say hov»^ many, in all, Avere engaged. If we say that, in the course of the campaign, there were six thou- sand men engaged on each side, we shall, probably, not be far from the fact. The tabular view in the note, of the killed, and wounded, and prisoners, will afford a com- parative view of the losses, relative to each army, and to the aggregate of both. ^ American Loss. British Loss. Battle of Chippewa, fought 5th July, 1814, 328 507 Battle of Niagara, fought 25th July, 1814, 860 878 Assault on Fort Erie, 15th August, 1814, 84 905 Sortie from Fort Erie, 17th September, 1814, 511, about 800 Total, 1,763 3.090 , FIERCENESS OF THE CONTESTS. 141 Thp British loss is greater than the American in about the ratio of three to two. If, as we have supposed, the total number of troops engaged in the several battles, on both sides, was about twelve thousand, it follows that nearly one half this whole number were among the killed, wounded, and prisoners ! This is a loss exceeding, in proportion, that of the most bloody battles of Napoleon.-^ ^ A brief notice of some of the officers who survived the Niagara cam- paign, and who have not been before specifically referred to, may not be unacceptable in this place. 1. The commander. Brown, so much distinguished, was called to "Washington as general-in-chief of the whole army, in 1821. He was crippled by pa^ralysis the same year, and died February 24, 1828. 2. E. W. Ripley, resigned, a major-general, by brevet, May, 1820 ; subsequently was a member of the twenty-fourth Congress, from Louisi- ana, and died March 2, 1839. 3. Hugh Brady, now long a brigadier-general, by brevet. 4. Wm. McRee, resigned, a colonel, March, 1819 ; appointed surveyor- general of Missouri, &c. ; died of cholera, in 1832. 5. Thomas S. Jesup, now long quartermaster-general of the army, with the brevet of major-general. 6. Henry Leavenworth died a brigadier-general, by brevet, July 21, 1834. 7. John McNiel, resigned, a brigadier-general by brevet, April 23, 1830 ; now surveyor, &lc., o' the customs at Boston. 8. Jacob Hindman, died at Baltimore, a colonel, February 17, 1827. 9. Roger Jones, at present (and long) adjutant-general of the army, and brioradier-ffeneral by brevet. 142 scott's sufferings from his wounds. CHAPTER XI. 1814 TO 1817. Scott's Journey from Niagara to Philadelphia. — Is received at Princeton with Honors, by the Faculty and Students of Nassau Hall. — Receives the Honorary Degree of Master of Arts. — Pleasing Incident at Com- mencement. — Scott's Journey to Europe. — Is intrusted with Diplomatic Functions. — Correspondence with Kosciusko. — His Marriage. We last saw Scott on the field of Niagara. He was borne from that scene of glory, to the care of nurses and surgeons, a wounded and suffermg soldier. He had been wounded, as we have narrated, first by a spent ball, in the side, and next by a musket-ball which passed di- rectly through the left shoulder. The last was a wound in its nature serious and painful. His recovery w^as, for a month, very doubtful. He lay, in great agony, at Buf- falo and Williamsville. He was then removed to the house of his kind friend, Mr. Brisbane, in Batavia. By the nursings of this amiable family, he became able, at the end of some weeks, to bear the motion of a litter. In that way he was taken, on the shoulders of some of the gentlemen of the country, who relieved each other from town to town, to the house of another excellent friend, the late Hon. John Nicholas, of Geneva. Here again, nothing was left unattempted which skill and kind- ness could devise, for the restoration of the wounded soldier. HIS SLOW AND PAINFUL JOURNEY. 143 His object was to reach Philadelphia, and there place himself under the care of that distinguished surgeon, the late Dr. Physick, and the no less distinguished physician of the same city. Dr. Chapman. Both of these gentlemen have taken a patriotic delight in min- istering professionally, and in every case where the patient has permitted them to do so, gratuitously, to those who have sustained injuries in the cause of their country.^ At this time, September, 1814, Philadelphia and Bal- timore were threatened with an attack of the enemy .^ Crippled though he was, Scott, at the instance of the delegations in congress from Pennsylvania and Maryland, was requested by the war department to take at least the nominal command of the troops assembled for the de- fence of those cities. Accompanied by his aid-de-camp Worth, (then promoted to be major for gallant actions, and since generaf,) the hero of Chippewa proceeded slowly to the Atlantic. Everywhere on the route, the suffering representative of the army of Niagara was re- ceived, by patriotic citizens, with the highest evidences of their esteem. At the classic and memorable ground of Princeton, an incident occurred, alike adapted to cheer the heart of the disabled soldier, and give propriety and freshness to his reception on the spot, where the muse of history has * Dr. Physick was quite remarkable for his regard for those in the pub- lic service, and their families, refusing compensation from the families of ofRcers engaged in public ser\'ice. Dr. Chapman equally merits the grati- tude of the army for similar liberality and kindness. ^ The British had previously been repelled from Baltimore ; but a new attack was anticipated. ' 144 Scott's reception at Princeton. not disdained to dwell in the humble abodes of philoso- phy.i The annual commencement at the College of New Jersey (Nassau Hall) happened to occur on the day Scott reached Princeton. Upon quitting the carriage, he was supported to a bed, intending, by easy stages and .proper care, to reach Philadelphia. It was soon whispered about, that General Scott had entered the town. The faculty of the college immediately sent a deputation to the hotel to invite his attendance at the church. He suffered him- self to be carried thither. Pale and meager, his left shoulder swollen and bandaged, his arm in a sling, and his furred surtout flung over his person, the invalid with difficulty ascended the stage where the exercises were performed. There, the president, trustees, and other dignitaries of the college, were waiting his slow approach, amidst learn- ing, beauty, and fashion, collected ffom far and near. The hands and kerchiefs of the ladies, as well as the voices of men, including hundreds of enthusiastic stu- dents, were in constant exercise. The rafters of the old edifice rang and re-echoed with applause. In Nassau Hall, it is customary to select the most graceful and elegant speaker to deliver the valedictory address. On this day, the orator of the valedictory was * General Mercer fell on the battle-ground of Princeton. His full- length portrait is, or was, hung in the chapel of Nassau Hall, reviving continually in the minds of its students, memories of the glorious Revo- lution. President Witherspoon left these academic shades of Princeton to join the revolutionary congress, and there he put his name to that immortal instrument which shall endure while the history of nations shall endure. ..v:i^^^'%T'^ — THE GOOD CITIZEN IN PEACE AND WAR ' 145 Bloomfield M'llvaine, Esq.^ His theme was " Tlie pub- lic duties of a good citizen in peace and war" — a subject well adapted to the then situation of the countr}'', and not improper at any time. Towards the close of his oration, the speaker turned to Scott, and in the most graceful and extemporaneous oratory, made him the personification of the civic and heroic virtues. Nothing could have been more happily adapted to the person and the subject. The sympathies of the audience burst forth in applause, alike to the young and disabled general who was personified, and to the eloquent and enthusiastic student wdiose ready genius had paid so just and beautiful a tribute. After a brief consultation by the president and trustees of the college, General Scott was complimented with the honorary degree of Master of Arts. Coming from the trustees of New Jersey College, this was a meaning and pointed compliment. They had never made the mistake of conferring honorary degrees inapt to the person com- plimented and the services rendered. As a member of the bar, distinguished in another line, for the science as well as the art of war, the honorary degree of Master of Arts was deserved, and it was not foreign to the desert. At Philadelphia, Governor Snyder marched out, at the head of a division of militia, to receive him. From thence, Scott passed on to Baltimore,^ then threatened with an- * Bloomfield M'llvaine (since dead) became an eminent lawyer of Phila- delphia. He wps the brother of Charles M'llvaine, Episcopal Bishop of Ohio ; also of Joseph M'llvaine, Recorder of Philadelphia ; and of two others, one a merchant in the West, and the other also a lawyer in Phila- delphia. ^ The attack on Baltimore took place between the 11th and 15th Sep- tember, 1814. 146 SCOTT EMPLOYED AT WASHINGTON. Other attack from the British, where his shoulder was finally healed, by that distinguished surgeon Dr. Gibson, now a professor in the University of Pennsylvania. On the 16th of October, 1814, he assumed the com- mand of the tenth military district, Avhose head-quarters were at Washington Cit3^^ Here, and at Baltimore, he passed the early part of the winter of 1814-15, the time which intervened before the arrival of the treaty of peace. At that time, he was called upon to furnish plans for the general conduct of the anticipated campaign of 1815, as well as a particular one for the northern frontier. In February, 1815, the treaty of peace arrived ir Washington.^ Soon after this. General Scott was in quired of, whether he would take the department of war, as its secretary. This he declined, cheerfully admitting to the president, that he was too young for that. He was then requested to act as secretar}% holding his rank in the army, till the arrival of the Hon. William H. Craw- ford, (then minister at Paris,) who received the appoint- ment. This also he declined, from feelings of delicacy towards his seniors, Major-Generals Brown and Jackson, the secretary being at that time, under the President, the immediate commander of the army.^ About this time also, he assisted in reducing the army * General Orders, 16th October, 1814, 7 Niles, 95. ^ The Treaty of Peace was signed the 24th December, 1814, and rati- fied by the Senate, 17th February, 1815. See Treaty, 7 Niles, 397. ^ By article 2d, section 2d, of the Constitution of the United States, the President is the commander-in-chief of the army and navy of the United States, and of the militia of the several states, when called into actual eervice. This.power he can exercise through subordinates, and" does so, by the military degrees, from secretary downwards. SENT TO EUROPE WITH INSTRUCTIONS. 147 from the war to the peace estabhshment, a service of no small deUcacy. This performed, and being yet feeble from his wounds, he went to Europe, by order of the government, both for the restoration of his health and for professional improvement. He was also confidentially intrusted with diplomatic functions, of which the object was to ascertain the temper and views of certain courts, respecting the revolutionary struggles then commenced in the Spanish provinces of America, and the apprehended designs of Great Britain upon the island of Cuba, both at that time subjects of no little solicitude to the cabinet at Washington.^ For this pur- pose he was furnished with letters to some of the minis- ters, or other principal men, in Russia, France, and Eng- land. He succeeded so well in executing his instructions, that President Madison caused the Secretary of State to write him a very particular letter of thanks for the infor- mation communicated. In the course of his abode in Europe, he received, through Baron Hottingeur, an autograph letter from the renowned Kosciusko. It was addressed to the baron, at Paris. Having procured a copy, we insert it here, in re- gard both to him who wrote it, and him to whom it was written.^ ^ It was about eight years subsequent to this period, and with a view to the same subjects, President Monroe promulgated his declaration, that the continent of America was no longer the subject of European colonization. ^ Kosciusko is one of the few names not born to die. There have been few persons in modern times more widely known, or renowned, than the hero of Poland. He was connected with two revolutions — that of America and that of Poland. The melancholy issue of the last has connected him with both the affections of grief and admiration, drawing at once a laurel 148 LETTER FROM KOSCIUSKO. TRANSLATION. ** Sir- May I beg you to express to General Scott my great regrets that, owing to a severe indisposition, I ara^ unable to leave Soleure ;^ otherwise it Avould afford me the highest gratification to meet him half way between this and Paris, to make his acquaintance ; the more so as from hisloty and a sigh from song. The last hast been so impressively fixed on the American mind, by the muse of Campbell, that his lines are almost as familiar as the tales of the nursery — " Oh I bloodiest picture in the book of time, Sarmatia fell, unwept, without a crime ; Found not a generous friend, a pitying foe. Strength in her arms, nor mercy in her wo ! Dropped from her nerveless grasp the shattered spear, Closed her bright eye, and curbed her high career ! Hope, for a season, bade the world farewell, And freedom shrieked as Kosciusko fell I" Kosciusko died, just two years after the above letter was WTitten to Scott, it is said by a fall from a horse. At no more than twenty years of age, he was appointed a colonel of engineers in the American service, and as such, served in our revolutionary war. He fortified the camp of General Gates, in the campaign against Burgoyne, and subsequently erected works at West Point. After the Revolution in Poland, he revisited the United States, where he was received with honor, and had also a grant of lands from Congress. He returned to West Point, and there made a little garden on a shelf of rock looking down on the Hudson, and overhung with the evergreen cedar. With the evergreen he mingled the lilac and the rose. There, on a neighboring point, the cadets of the military academy have erected his monument, of white marble, shining in the sunbeam. His only epitaph is " Kosciusko." * Kosciusko was then in Switzerland, where he died, on the 16th of October, 1817. SCOTT RETURNS HOME. 149 he is charged by his government, with the collection of information upon military subjects. I have done myself the pleasure to introduce him to Monsieur Carnot, as a general more capable than any other to give him clear and precise ideas upon military matters, as en- gineering, and the choice of books proper to form a library for the study of those subjects. I have also given him letters to the Marshals McDonald, Oudinot, Dupont, &:c. They will be able to enlighten him upon the sub- ject of the greater operations of armies ; vAmt positions to seize, and how to defend them ; and finally what measures are necessary in all possible cases, to procure supplies and ammunition for an army, and the best meth- ods to discipline the troops. Be pleased to convey my compliments to General Scott, and especially for his victories in Canada. I hope the Americans will follow his example — his courage, his energy, and his virtues. Accept the assurances of my distinguished consideration, T. Kosciusko." SoLEURE, 12th October, 1815. General Scott made good use of his opportunities for society and instruction, while in Europe. He arrived in France, by way of England, soon after the battle of Water- loo. There he associated much with the distinguished men of letters and of science in Paris. He attended courses of public lectures, visited the fortresses and n^al establishments in the west of Europe, and returned home in 1816, taking Great Britain on his way. On the arrival of General Scott in the United States, 10* 150 SCOTT TAKES COMMAND OF THE SEABOARD. he was assigned to the copimand of the seaboard. His head-quarters were at the city of New York. In that city, and near it, at Ehzabethtown, New Jersey, and in the same command, with the exception of two years in the West, he resided during the next twenty years. In March, 1817, General Scott was married to Miss Maria Mayo, daughter of John Mayo, Esq., of Richmond, Virginia — a lady whose charms and accomplishments are widely known. They have had several daughters, but no livinsr son. ADMIRATION OF MEN FOR THE BRAVE. 151 CHAPTER XII. Scott's Promotions. — Resolution of Congress. — Presentation of the Medal by President Monroe. — Inscription. — Resolutions of Virginia. — Scott's Correspondence with Governor Nicholas. — Resolutions of New York. — Presentation of a Sword, and the Address, by Governor Tompkins.— Scott a Member of the Cincinnati. The war of 1812 being now ended, and Scott having passed from the battle-field to the domestic fireside, it is fit we should here review some of the promotions, com- pliments, and honors, which his country and countr^^men, at various times, besto\Aied upon him, for his gallant and successful conduct. Whether it be a weakness or an in- firmity of human nature, as some suppose, or a right and generous emotion of justice and gratitude, as others think, it is certainly a natural and universal element of human society, to reward with uncommon honors those who have risked their lives, and endured hardships for their country. If it be sweet and decorous, as the poet thought, to die for one's country,^ mankind seem to be agreed, that it is equally decorous and honorable to reward those who have offered to die and yet survived, for the hazards they encountered and the sufferings they endured. Scott entered the army in 1808, at twenty-two years of age. In 1814, when only twenty-eight, he had ascend- * " dulc'e et decorum est pro patria mori." 152 TOO YOUNG FOR A GENERAL. ed to the highest military ^ank, that of major-general, which is attainable in the United States. In a very short time also, he was distinguished by honors and memorials, from various civil bodies and public authorities, such as have been seldom conferred upon one person, and upon one so young — perhaps never. In the spring of 1812, when, at the near prospect of war, the army was augmented, and while Scott was yet in New Orleans, the Virginia delegation in Congress pre- sented his name to the executive for a lieutenant-colonel- cy. President Madison remarked, that he knew Scott, and thought highly of his merits ; but that he was too young for a greater rank than that of major. The objec- tion was, however, overcome, and he was made lieutenant- colonel. His conduct in the campaign of 1812, already narrated, brought his name again before lUe President for the ap- pointment of colonel. This promotion w^as strongly urged by certain general officers of the army, and by the then Secretary of War, General Armstrong. The Presi- dent now admitted, that Scott had shown himself an excellent lieutenant-colonel, but doubted whether he was old enough to command a double regiment — the second artiller)^ He was, however, appointed to the vacancy on the 2d of March, 1813. After the campaign of 1813, Scott was again brought forward by the same parties who had urged his promo- tion before. Mr. Madison again made the same admis- sion and objection as before, and again yielded. Scott was appointed brigadier-general, March 9th, 1814, in his twenty-eighth year. In a little more than four months from that date, the RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS. 153 battles of Chippewa and Niagara were fought and won. Then, Scott's name was uttered by all voices. It was presented, of course, for further promotion. There was but one higher grade. The President replied with a smile — " Put him down a major-general. I have done with objections to his youth !" The testimony of legislative bodies, and of men en- gaged in civil and peaceful duties, to the merit and ser- vices of Scott, were not less strong than those of the executive and the military functionaries. Near the close of the war, Nov. 3d, 1814, Congress passed a vote of thanks, in which Scott was not only specifically complimented for his skill and gallantry, in the conflicts of Chippewa and Niagara, but/o?' Iiis uni- form good conduct throughout the war — a compliment paid by Congress to no other officer. resolution of congress, approved NOV. 3d, 1814. " Resolved, that the President of the United States be requested to cause a gold medal to be struck, with suit- able emblems and devices, and presented to Major-Gen- eral Scott, in testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress of his distinguished services, in the successive conflicts of Chippewa and Niagara, and of his uniform gallantry and good conduct in sustaining the reputation of the arms of the United States." ^ The medal thus ordered by Congress, was not pre- sented till the close of Mr. Monroe's administration. On that occasion, the following proceedings took place : 154 Executl^ Mansion, February 26, 1825 ; "i in the presence of tlie Cabinet, and of > many other distingaished persons. ) PRESIDENT Monroe's address. " General Scott — Your conduct in the late war merited and obtained, in a high degree, the approbation of Con- gress and your country. In the battles of Chippewa and Niagara, in Upper Canada, in the campaign of 1814, your daring enterprise and gallantry in action were eminently conspicuous. " In rendering justice to you, I recur with pleasure to the report made of those actions by the miUtary com- mander, the most competent judge of your merit. In the battle of Chippewa, he says, you are entitled to the highest praise your country can bestow ; and that we are indebted to you, more than to any other person, for the victory ob- tained in it. " In the battle of Niagara you commenced the action, and your gallantry in several severe encounters, until dis- abled by severe wounds, was equally distinguished. As a testimonial of the high sense entertained by Congress of your merit in those actions, I have the pleasure to pre- sent you this medal." major-general scott's reply. *' With a deep sense of the additional obhgation now contracted, I *^cept, at the hands of the venerable chief magistrate of the Union, this classic token of the highest reward that a freeman can receive — the recorded ap- probation OF HIS COUNTRY. GENERAL SCOTT's REPLY. 155 " If, in the resolve of Congress, or in your address, sir, my individual services have been over-estimated, not so the achievements of that gallant body of officers and men, whom in battle it v^as my good fortune to command, and of whom I am, on this interesting occasion, the honored representative. '' Very many of those generous spirits breathed their last on the fields which their valor assisted to win ; and of the number that happily survive, there is not one, I dare affirm, who will not be ready in peace, as in war, to devote himself to the liberties and the glory of the country. " And you, sir, whom I have the honor officially to address for the last time ;^ you who bled in the first, and powerfully contributed to the second War of Independ- ence ; you who have toiled fifty years to rear and to establish the liberties of this great republic — permit an humble actor in a much shorter period of its history, to mingle his prayers with those of millions, for the happy but distant termination of a life, of which, as yet, others have enjoyed the distinguished benefits, whilst the cares nave been all your own." The medal is a beautiful specimen of the numismatic art. It is large and of massive gold. The drawing shows both faces of the medal and its exact dimensions. The portrait of the general, in relievo, is true to life. The in- scription on the reverse face, as shown in the drawing, ^ Mr. Monroe retired from the presidency only five days later than thies presentation, on the 3d March, 1825. It was the melancholy fortune of General Scott to close the eyes of the venerable ex-president, in New York, at three P. M. of July 4th, 1831. It is one of the most singular incidents in history, that Adams, JefFei-son, and Monroe, should all have died on July 4th. 155* THE MEDAL. is surrounded with a wreath of palm and laurel, entwined about a serpent formed into* a circle — emblem of youth and immortality, or youth crowned with victory. It is a cherished memorial of national gratitude. There is an incident connected with this medal which we cannot forbear to relate. It is not an *tem cf general history, and possibly may not be interesting to the general reader. It illustrates, however, a great principle of human action. It indicates how deeply the feehng of reverence for distinguished and brilliant services sinks into the heart, and how pure that feeling may remain when other and kindred virtues have yielded to temptation. This medal was deposited by General Scott many years since, for safe keeping, in the City Bank of the city of New York. Some time after, the bank was entered by false keys, and robbed of bullion and other funds to the large amount of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. The first clerk, on entering the bank the day after tlie robbery, discovered that the safe had been forced, and soon ascertained the extent of the loss. On examining the trunk in which the medal was deposited, he found, to his suprise and delight, that the medal was safe, though eveiy dollar of the bullion deposited with it had been taken. The matter was inexplicable to the ofiicers of tiie bank. The robber had burst open the trunk, stripped it of its valuable contents, opened the case which enclosed the medal, and yet left that large piece of massive gold behind. No motive could be discovered for such an act. The robber was finally arrested, the funds recov- ered, and the law satisfied by a full term of service in the state prison. At a subsequent period, in passing down the Hudson 156 PATRIOTISM REMAINS. River, on board a steamboat, General Scott's purse was abstracted from his pocket. • The fact being made known to the chief of the pohce, the Honey was soon discovered and restored. It was during the progress of this investi- gation that the burglar who had robbed the City Bank reproached his confederates with their want of honorable bearing. He said, " that when he took the money from the City Bank he saw and well knew the value of the medal, but scorned to take from the soldier what had been given by the gratitude of his country." This incident is a curious phenomenon in the operations of the human mind. A man who made theft and robbery his profession, and felt no compunctions in seizing on the property of others, gropes his way with a dark lantern, through damp vaults and narrow passes, until at length he reaches the object of his hopes. He breaks the locks, and his dim hght discovers bags of gold. He seizes them with avidity. In his search he discovers the medal of a patriot soldier. One current of virtuous feeling had not been corrupted. He replaces the treasure, and rejoices that he yet loves his country and honors her defenders. In February, 1816, both houses of the Virginia legisla- ture passed unanimously a vote of thanks to General Scott, for his uniform good conduct in the war. At the same time the governor was directed to procure a suitable sword, with proper emblems and devices, and have the same presented to him as a memorial of their high estima- tion of his conduct. RESOLUTIONS OF THE VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE. " Resolved unanimously, by the Senate and House of Delegates of the Commonwealth of Virginia, in general RESOLUTIONS OP VIRGINIA. 157 assembly convened, that the governor be, and he is here- by requested, to present the thanks of this general assem- bly to Major-General Winfield Scott, a native citizen of this state, for his uniform good conduct in sustaining the military reputation of the United States, in every con- flict or engagement in which he was present during the late war with England, but more especially in the suc- cessive engagements of Chippewa and Niagara. " Resolved, also unanimously, that the governor be, and he is hereby requested to cause a suitable sword, with proper emblems and devices thereon, to be presented to Major- General Scott, as a mark of the high opinion this assembly entertains of his gallantry and distinguished services, in the battles of Chippewa and Niagara. ^^ Resolved, also unanimously, that the governor be, and he is hereby requested to forward to Major-General Scott a copy of these resolutions, and to present, through liim, the thanks of this assembly to his gallant associates in arms, during the campaign of 1814. " Unanimously agreed to in both houses, February 12, 1816. Wm. xMumford, C. H. D." letter from governor NICHOLAS OF VIRGINIA, TO GEN- ERAL SCOTT. " Richmond, May 31, 1816. " Sir— I have the honor to communicate to you the enclosed Resolutions of the General Assembly of Virginia, by which they unanimously testify their high sense of your gallant services, in every conflict or engagement in which you were present during the late war with England, and 158 LETTER OF GOVERNOR NICHOLAS. especially in the successive engagements of Chippewa and Niagara. The sentimelits of the General Assembly- are best expressed by their resolutions ; but I cannot deny myself the pleasure of declaring how cordially I concur in their testimony to your distinguished merits, and of expressing my earnest hopes, that you may long continue to enjoy the fruits of your well-earned reputation. I beg leave, through you, sir, to present the thanks of the General Assembly of Virginia to your gallant associates in arms, during the campaign of 1814, for the noble manner in which they sustained the military reputation of their country. " I have the honor to be, With the greatest respect. Sir, Your humble servant, W. C. Nicholas." " Major-General Winfield Scott." REPLY OF GENERAL SCOTT. " New York, June 26, 1816. *' Sir— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's letter of the 31st ultimo, covering cer- tain Resolutions of the General Assembly of Virginia, approbatory of my military conduct during the late war, in general, but more particularly in the campaign of 1814, in which my gallant associates in arms are included. " I am most sensibly alive to the good opinion of my countrymen of Virginia — a state to which I am proud to owe my birth, and whatever of zeal or patriotism I may be supposed to have shown in the late common struggle of the Union. That my humble exertions have attracted PRESENTATION OF THE SWORD. 159 the notice and received the approbation of the General Assembly of Virginia, is to me a proud distinction — one that will bind me still more strongly to those to whom I was before allied by common interests, principles, and nativity. " I beg3^our Excellency to accept my best acknowledg- ments, for the very kind and flattering terms in which you have been pleased to communicate the sentiments of the Legislature, and believe me to be, With the highest respect and consideration, Your Excellency's Obedient and humble servant, .» WiNFIELD ScOTT." His Excellency Wilson C. Nicholas." The sword which the General Assembly of Virginia had directed the Governor of Virginia to procure for General Scott, was not, from some accidental causes, pre- sented to General Scott till the year 1825. In that year, it was presented by Governor Pleasants, to whom Scott made a suitable reply, wdiich we subjoin. GENERAL SCOTt's REPLY TO GOVERNOR PLEASANTS, ON THE PRESENTATION OF A SWORD, IN 1825. «' Sir- In the part which it was my lot to bear in the late war, I should have deemed myself as still unfortu- nate, whatever success I might have obtained, or what- ever honors might have been accorded to me elsewhere, if I had failed to win the approbation of my native state. But from this I have been happily spared — Virginia, with parental kindness, has deemed me one of her sons who 11 160 DESCRIPTION OF THE SWORD. endeavored well in the second great triumph of our free institutions. " The law which gave my name to a county ; the thanks voted by the General Assembly ; and this sword which I now have the honor to receive at your hands, in the presence of the executive council, are the precious evidences of that partiality. Sir — they are appreciated by me in the spirit in which they are bestowed, as incul- cating the first lesson of a citizen-soldier, that, as liberty is the greatest of blessings, so should he ever hold him- self armed in her defence, and ready to sacrifice his life in her cause !" The sword which the Legislature of Virginia thus pre- sented, was of the most beautiful kind, mounted with the finest gold, and surrounded with devices classical, enig- matical, and historical, well chosen, and adapted to the actor and the actions it was intended to honor and com- memorate.^ ^ The Richmond Enquirer of that date has a minute account of the sword and its embellishments. We subjoin that part of the account which is descriptive of the hibtorical embellishments of the blade. " If the external ornaments be classical, those on the blade, which is the soul of the weapon, are historical. First, we have on one side a scene from the battle of Niagara, representing the moment after Miller had carried the batter}'' : General Scott is seen at the head of his shattered but still intrepid brigade, and mounting another charger, his first being literally torn from under him by a cannon-shot. It was a moment when victory seemed dependent upon the uncommon exertions of some heroic spirit, and the effect produced upon the troops by the general's falling, and finally reappearing, was electrical. This delineation is followed by an eagle between two scrolls ; on the first, ' Chippewa, 5th July, 1814 ;' on the other, 'Niagara, 25th July, 1814.' On the opposite side of the blade, we have, * Presented by the Commonwealth of Virginia to Major- GOVERNOR TOMPKINS S ADDRESS. 161 About the same time with the passage of the resohi- tions we have recited, by the State of Virginia, others were passed of similar import, by the Legislature of the State of New York, along whose western frontier a large portion of Scott's public services had been rendered. The legislature impowered his Excellency Daniel D. Tompkins, governor of that state, to present General Scott its thanks for his services, and a sword, which was done. The presentation took place on w^iat is called in New York Evacuation Day. The folldVving account of the proceedings has a more than common interest, by the peculiar aptness of the addresses made. In the City Hall of New York f Anniversary, Nov. 25th, 1816, of the Evacuation of the ^City by the British troops, at the end of the Revolutionary War. GOVERNOR TOMPKINS S ADDRESS TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCOTT. " Sir— I avail myself of an anniversary commemorative of the exploits of our forefathers, to perform the pleasing duty of proclaiming the gratitude of the people of this state to those descendants of the heroes of the Revolu- tion, whose services in the late war have contributed so mainly to perpetuate the independence which our vene- rated ancestors achieved, and to advance the glory of the American nation. " In adverting, sir, to your claims of distinction, it General Winfield Scott, 12th February, 1816,' followed by a figure of Liberty with Tyranny prostrate at her feet, and this scroll, ' Sic semper tyraiinis.^ The whole blade, which is of the best proof, is covered with ornaments executed in high taste." 162 THE NATURAL AND THE MORAL SUBLIME. would be sufficient to say, that on all occasions you have displayed the highest mihtary accomplishments, the most ardent attachment to the rights and honor of your coun- try, and the most intrepid exertions in their support. A rapid and unprecedented succession of promotions at an early age, has been the well-earned fruit of your talents. The distinguished notice by your government is the best encomium on your character, and the highest reward to which the virtuous and the great aspire. " But, sir, your military career is replete with splendid events. Without descending into too much minuteness, I may briefly refer'to your exploits in the most interesting portion of the American continent. The shores of Niag- ara, from Erie to Ontario, are inscribed v/ith your name, and with the names of your brafv^e companions. The defeat of the enemy at Fort George will not be for- gotten. The memorable conflict on the plains of Chip- pewa, and the appalling night-battle on the Heights of Niagara, are events which have added new celebrity to the spots where they happened, heightening the majesty of the stupendous cataract, by combining with its natural, all the force of the moral sublime. The admirers of the great in nature, from all quarters of the globe, will for- ever visit the theatre of your achievements. They will bear to their distant homes the idea of this mighty dis- play of nature, and will associate with it the deeds of you and your brothers in arms. And so long as the beautiful and sublime shall be objects of admiration among men ; so long as the whelming waters of Erie shall be tumbled hito the awful depths of Niagara, so long shall the splen- did actions in which you have had so conspicuous a share, endure in the memory of man. THE CHIEF DESIRE OF A PATRIOT SOLDIER. 163 " Accept, sir, the sword'presented to you by the people of this state, as a pledge of their aifection and gratitude for your distinguished services ; and may the remainder of your life be as serene and happy, as your early days have been useful and glorious." MAJOR-GENERAL SCOTt's REPLY. . " Sir— I have heretofore had the honor to express to the Legislature of the State of New York, through your Excellency, my high sense of the distinguished compli- ment conferred on me by that honorable body, in its reso- lution on the subject of my military services, and in its vote of the splendid sword, now so handsomely presented by your Excellency. *' On an occasion like this, declarations would but feebly express the volume of obligation contracted. Per- mit me to assure your Excellency, and through you, the legislature and people of the proud State of New York, that I am sensibly alive to the duties of a republican soldier, armed by the hands of his countrymen to support and defend their national honor and independence ; and if my personal services had been more worthy of the dis- tinction bestowed, I should have no wish left me, at this moment, but that the glory and liberties of the republic midit be eternal." a In the year 1815, General Scott was unanimously elected an honorary member of the state society of " Cin- AU that ende Glory, is when the myrtle wreathes a sword Such as Harmodius drew on Athens' tyrant lord. 11* 164 Virginia's love to her son. ciiinali," in Pennsylvania. Tiiis venerable society was lormed by the officers of the revolutionary army, a1 the close of the revolution, and has 'ever been distinguished by worth and patriotism. In the year 1815, also, the Legislature of Virginia named a new county, in honor of him, Scott. Some other states have done the same.^ ^ There are eight states which have named counties. Scott, viz. . Virginia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and Arkansas. All but two of these, it is believed, were named from General Scott. AN ANONYMOUS NOTE. 1 65 CHAPTER XIII. General Jackson's Order of 1817. — Reflections. — The anonj'mous Letter. — Correspondence of Scott and Jackson. — Implication of Clinton. — The true Facts. — Reconciliation of Scott and Jackson. — Scott's Notice of his Death. In the year 1817, a singular and unpleasant controversy occurred between General Jackson, General Scott, and Governor Clinton, arising out of a point of military dis- cipline ; but in reality occasioned by an anonymous note, written by a subordinate person to General Jackson. The circumstances are curious, as illustrating how public characters may be involved, and even important conse- quences produced, by very small acts of inferior parties ; and historically valuable, as showing the position of affairs at that time. General Jackson, then commanding the division of the South in the army of the United States, and annoyed probably by some order issuing from the war department to one of his inferior officers, without his knowledge, pro- mulgated the following general order to his division — COPY. " Head-quarters, ^ *' Adjutant- General's Office, Division of the South. I Nashville, April 22d, 1817. '* Division Order. " The commanding general considers "it due to the principles of subordination which might and must exist in 166 OBJECT OF THE ORDER. an army, to prohibit the obedience of any order emanating from the department. of vvaf, to officers of the division who have reported, and been assignai to duty, unless coming through him as the proper organ of communication. " The object of this order is to prevent the recurrence of a circumstance which removed an important officer from the division, without the knowledge of the command- ing general, and, indeed, when he supposed that officer engaged in his official duties, and anticipated hourly the receipt of his official reports, on a subject of much impor- tance to his command ; also to prevent the topographical reports from being made public, through the medium of the newspapers, as was done in the case alluded to, there- by enabling the enemy to obtain the benefit of our topo- graphical researches, as soon as the gcaieral commanding, who is responsible for the defence of his division. " Superior officers having commands assigned them, are held responsible to their government for their character and conduct ; and it might as well be justified in an officer senior in command, to give orders to a guard on duty, without passing that order through the officer of that guard, as that the department of war should countermand the arrangements of commanding generals, w^ithout giving that order through the proper channel. To acquiesce in such a course would be a tame surrender of mihtary rights and etiquette, and at once subvert the established principles of subordination and good order. " Obedience to the lawful commands of superior offi- cers, is constitutionally and morally required ; but there is a chain of communication that binds the military com- pact, which, if broken, opens the door to disobedience and PRINCIPLE OF THE ORDER. 167 disrespect, and gives loose to the turbulent spirits, who are ever ready to excite mutiny. " All physicians able to perform duty, who are absent on furlough, will forthwith repair to their respective posts. " Commanding officers of regiments and corps, are re- quired to report specially all officers absent from duty, after the 30th of June next, and their cause of absence. *' The army is too small to tolerate idlers, and they will be dismissed from service.^ '' By order of Major-General Jackson (Signed) Robert Butler, Adjutant-General.'* To a military mind, the error and impropriety of this order are palpable. The principle of the order is that a colonel of a regiment cannot give an independent order" to a subaltern, without sending it through the captain of a company. The immediate application of this principle made by General Jackson's order, was to orders emana- ting from the war department to inferior officers, which orders General Jackson commanded should not be obeyed except coming through him. This was one of the worst forms in which the application of such a principle could be made. The war department is but the organ, or mouth- piece of the President of the United States. Tlie Presi- dent is, by the constitution, commander-in-chief of the army and navy of the Union. If the President, then, cannot issue orders to inferiors, or to any one, without the interference of third parties, he is deprived of his highest constitutional function. » For this " Order" see 12 Niles, 320. 8 168 THE ORDER DISCUSSED BY THE PUBLIC. The principle thus assumed in the Nashville order is strongly analogous to, and -nearly identical with the posi- tion of the Governors of Massackusetts and Connecticut in the war of 1812, that the President of the United States could not delegate his authority, and therefore the officers of the United States army could net command the mili- tia.^ This ground is obviously untenable. Yet, if the President can delegate his authority at all, it is obvious* that he is not limited as to whom it shall be delegated He may, therefore, through the war department, com mand any officer, however inferior in rank, to perforn? any service of whatever kind, independent of the opinionn or orders of any general officer. Nay, it may be imperi ously necessary that he should do so. Shall it be said that the President of the United States, through the war department, shall not require secret service, often so val uable in war, of any subaltern of tlie army, without asking leave of a general of division ? Subjected to this test, the principle of the Nashville order cannot for a moment be defended. It was very natural, and almost inevitable, that this very extraordinary order should occasion con\ersation and criticism, among both military men and civihans. . This was the fact. Among the conversations held on this subject,^ one oc- curred at a dinner party in New York, at Avhich, with other persons, there were present Governor Clinton and General Scott. The order became the topic of remark, * Mansfield's Political Grammar, p. 117. ' Probably half the intelligent citizens of the United States talked on tills topic. OPINION EXPRESSED BY GENERAL SCOTT. 169 when Governor Clinton expressed a wish to learn General Scott's views of it. General .Scott, who was seated near him, felt called upon to state professionally what were the principles involved in the question raised by General Jackson. This he did, in opposition to the views of General Jackson, and expressed the opinion to Clinton, that the tendency of the " order" was mutinous. At this time there was published in the city of New York a newspaper called the " Columbian," devoted to the interests of Governor Clinton, whom it had supported for the presidency.^ The substance of this conversation got to the ears of its conductors, and an anonymous article appeared in it, questioning the propriety of Jackson's order. This anonymous article another anonymous writer anonymously enclosed to General Jackson, on the 14th of August, 1817, accompanied by this remark of the un- known writer^ — " Your late order has been the subject of much private and some public remark. The war-office gentry and their adherents, pensioners, and expectants, have all been busy, but no one , of sufficient mark for your notice, more than General Scott, who, I am credibly informed, goes so far ^ This, among many other facts, is evidence of the extreme mutability and mortality of the newspaper press in the United States. The " Colum- bian" was succeeded by the " Statesman," edited by Nathaniel H. Carter, author of the Letters from Europe, and a very elegant writer. In time, that also perished. The race of newspapers now in New York, is almost entirely different from that then extant. "^ The author of this anonymous letter was known to the writer of this work. He was an able man ; but his object in this instance was probably merely mischievous. 170 GENERAL JACKSON's LETTER. as to call the order in question an act of mutiny. In this district, he is the organ of government insinuations, and the supposed author of the paper enclosed, which, how- ever, the better to cover him, was not published until he had left this city for the lakes." * * * * There were some other unimportant remarks in this communication. It was received by General Jackson on the 3d of September. On the 8th, he addressed to Gen- eral Scott the following letter — *' He ad -Quarters, Division of the South, > Nashville, September 8th, 1817. ^ *' Sir— With that candor due the character you have sustained as a soldier and a man of honor, and with the frankness of the latter, I address you. " Enclosed is a copy of an anonj^mous letter, post- marked New York, 14th of August, 1817, together with a publication taken from the Columbian, which accom- panied the letter. I have not permitted myself for a moment to believe, that the conduct ascribed to you is correct. Candor, however, induces me to lay them be- fore you, that you may have it in your power to say how far they be incorrectly stated. ' " If my order has been the subject of your animadver- sions, it is believed you will at once admit it, and the extent to which you may have gone. » " I am, sir, respectfully. Your most obedient servant, Andrew Jackson. " General W. Scott, U. S. Army." GENERAI SCOTT S REPLY. 171 Enclosed in this letter, was the anonymous document of which we have spoken. On October 4th, 1817, General Scott addressed to General Jackson a letter, of which we shall insert here only the material parts. In this he denies, peremptorily, that he was the author of the article in the Columbian, and then proceeds thus — GENERAL SCOTT TO GENERAL JACKSON. ********* " Conversing with some two or three private gentlemen, about as many times, on the subject of the division order dated at Nashville, April 2d, 1817, it is true, that I gave it as my opinion, that that paper was, as it respected the future, mutinous in its character and tendency, and, as it respected the past, a reprimand of the commander-in- chief, the President of the United States ; for although the latter be not expressly named, it is a principle well understood, that the war department, without at least his supposed sanction, cannot give a valid command to an ensign. " 1 have thus, sir, frankly answered the queries ad- dressed to me, and which were suggested to you by the letter of your anonymous correspondent ; but on a ques tion so important as that which you have raised with the war department, or, in other words, with the President of the United States, and in which I find myself incidentally involved, I must take leave to illustrate my meaning a little, &c., &c." [Here General Scott illustrated his opinion by exam pics and arguments.] " T must pray you to beheve, that 1 have expressed my 172 THE OPINION FREE FROM HOSTILITY. opinion on this great question, without the least hostility to yourself, personally, and without any view of making my court in another quarter, as is insinuated by your anonymous correspondent. I have nothing to fear or hope from either party. It is not likely that the executive will be offended at the opinion, that it has committed an irregularity in the transmission of its orders ; and, as to yourself, although I cheerfully admit that you are my superior, I deny that you are my commanding officer, within the meaning of the 6th article of the Rules and Articles of War. Even if I belonged to your division, I should not hesitate to repeat to you all that I have said at any time, on this subject, if a proper occasion offered ; and, what is more, I should expect your approbation, as, in my humble judgment, refutation is impossible. " As you do not adopt the imputations contained in the anonymous letter, a copy of which you enclosed me, I shall not degrade myself by any further notice of it." " The author is believed to be a young man of the army, and was at the time of the publication in this city ; but not under my command, and with whom I have never had the smallest intimacy. I forbear to mention his name, because it is only known by conjecture. *' I have the honor to be, &c., WiNFiELD Scott. " To Major-General Andrew Jackson, &c." To this letter General Jackson replied in a very angry manner, and with an offer of satisfaction according to the ^ode of honor, if demanded. He seems to have thought, that General Scott ouffht not to have criticised his mili- THE COMMON HUMAN NATURE. 173 tary conduct, and, in fact, ought not to have expressed any opinion at all. In his reply, Scott waived this idea, knowing, if there were no other reason, that those who had fought on the plains of Chippewa and New Orleans, needed no new evidence tha.t they possessed courage or pursued honor. This whole correspondence was subsequently printed in a pamphlet — a publicity which made it known to many persons, and requires that it be mentioned here as a part of the history, both personal and political, of the times to which it belongs. The controversies of distinguished men, their tone of temperament, and their hasty acts of passion, are dwelt upon by the curiosit}^ of others, with perhaps as much interest as any part of their lives. The multitude have a consciousness of greater equality with superior men in these minor developments of a common human nature, than in those greater and nobler deeds by which they have been raised to high eminence. There is a feeling of contact, communit}^ and connection, with those who, like us, breathe the common atmosphere of the common streets of the world ; but it is with admiration and with awe, not sympathy, that we gaze upon those whose uncommon strength and extraordinary success have enabled them to ascend the greatest heights, and bathe their heads, like the eagle's wings, in the sublime but cold air of the mountains. " Hence it is that the world is little offended to see dis- tinguished men descend from their eminence to mingle in common affairs, and display those passions which are felt to belong equally to the race — the highest and the lowest. The eminent men whose personal controvers}^ we have here narrated, have long since been reconciled to each 174 THE POSITION OF GOVERNOR CLINTON. Other. One of them has descended to the grave, honored w^ith the best rewards of hfe country, and the other v^^as one of the first to pay to his memory the high respect due from one distinguished soldier to another. The controversy, however, has an interest as connected with the principle of the Nashville Order, and yet more with the peculiar politics of that period. It is a singular fact, that an unknown writer, by a single paragraph of an anonymous letter, could occasion between three of the most eminent public men, such an excitement and such a discussion. It seems that at the close of General Scott's second letter, he intimated a suspicion that Governor Clinton was the anonj^mous correspondent of General Jackson. This suspicion was totally erroneous. De Witt Clinton was above any act of that kind. He stood in no need of such contrivances ; for, either at this time, or soon after, he had openly and boldly charged the administration of Mr. Monroe with interfering through the custom-house officers, with the state elections of New York. At this time, or soon after, also, he became alhed with the political friends of General Jackson. He had, therefore, no need of com- municating secretly with General Jackson, when there was nothing in his position to preclude doing it openly. It was, however, perfectly natural that such a sus- picion should have occurred to Scott at that time ; for he was unable to trace the knowledge, or the possibility of reporting his opinions, to any other than the persons present on the occasion mentioned. Happily, however, the truth was discovered. Soon after these transactions. General Scott learned, that Governor Clinton had spoken, as he was perfectly at liberty to do, of Scott's military SCOTT AND JACKSON AT WASHINGTON. 175 view of General Jackson's order, in the hearing of some one connected with the Columbian newspaper. This person, or one associated with him, had written the anony- mous letter, without the sanction or knowledge of Gov- ernor Clinton. This explanation, or recantation, General Scott has often made before as since the death of the illustrious Clinton. Had Scott known the facts at an earlier date, a most unpleasant controversy would have been avoided. It only remains to record the reconciliation between Scott and Jackson, alike honorable to both. There had been a rumor, no doubt groundless, that General Jackson would, on meeting General Scott, offer him some sort of outrage or indignity. When, therefore, they had been six days together at Washington, and often in the Capitol, in the year 1823, the following letter was written — GENERAL SCOTT TO GENERAL JACKSON. « Washington, D. C, Dec. 11, 1823. *' Sir- One portion of the American community has long attributed to you the most distinguished magna- nimity, and the other portion the greatest desperation, in your resentments — am I to conclude that both are equally in error ? I allude to circumstances which have trans- pired between us, and which need not here be recapitu- lated, and to the fact that I have now been six days in your mimed iate vicinity without having attracted your notice. As this is the first time in my life that I have been within a hundred miles of you, and as it is barely possible that you may be ignoraiU of my presence, I beg ' 12 176 THE RECONCILIATION. leave to state that I shall not leave the District before the morning of the 14th inst. * " I have the honor to be, sir, Your most obedient servant, WiNFiELD Scott. " The Hon. Gen. A. Jackson, Senator, &c." To this letter, General Jackson returned the following answer — GENERAL JACKSON TO GENERAL SCOTT. « Mr. O'Neil's, Dec. 11th, 1823. " Sir— Your letter of to-day has been received. Whether the world are correct or in error, as regards my * mag- nanimity,' is for the world to decide. I am satisfied of one fact, that when you shall know me better, you will not be disposed to harbor the opinion, that any thing like * desperation in resentment' attaches to me. " Your letter is ambiguous ; but, concluding from oc- currences heretofore, that it was written with friendly views, I take the liberty of saying to you, that whenever you shall feel disposed to meet me on friendly terms, that disposition will not be met by any other than a corre- spondent feeling on my part. " I have the honor to be, sir, Your most obedient servant, Andrew Jackson. " Gen. W. Scott.' The olive-branch was on both sides accepted. From this time, to tiie recall of General Scott from the Indian •> DEATH OF GENERAL JACKSON. 177 war in 1836, Generals Scott and Jackson were on terms of high courtesy with each other. Both have been sub- sequently engaged in other and higher actions. They have been engaged in various and important services for their country. Their private griefs have been forgotten, in the various dramatic and dignified scenes in which they were associated with the interests and the glory of their country. On the 8th day of June, 1845, General Jackson died at his private residence, the Hermitage, near Nashville, in the state of Tennessee. Demonstrations of respect and sympathy were everywhere manifested. . General Scott was at West Point when the news reached that place. He was president of the board of examiners, which was in session when the morning-boat from New York brought the melancholy intelligence. With the truly great, all differences are forgotten at the grave ; and General Scott could retain no recollection of them, on such an occasion. He immediately rose and addressed the board of visitors, the academic staff, and the cadets, as follows — GENERAL SCOTT S ADDRESS. " Ex-President Jackson died at the Hermitage on the 8th inst. The information is not official, but sufficiently authentic to prompt the step I am about to take. An event of much moment to the nation has occurred. A great man has fallen. General Jackson is dead — a great general and great patriot — who had filled the highest political stations in the gift of his countrymen. He is dead. This is not the place, nor am I the individual to 178 GENERAL SCOTT's ADDRESS. pronounce a fit eulogy on tlfe illustrious deceased. Na- tional honors will doubtless be prescribed by the Presi- dent of the United States ; but in the mean time, and in harmony with the feelings of all who hear me, and par- ticularly with those of the authorities of this institution, I deem it proper to *uspend the examination of the cadets for the day, and to wait the orders of the Executive of the United States on the subject." THE MODERN ART OF WAR. 179 CHAPTER XIV. 1821 TO 1832. Scott writes the Military Institutes. — Prepares Reports on Tactics. — Hia Essay on Temperance. — Obtains Admission to the Military Academy for the Sons of General Paez. — Correspondence with General Paez. — Controversy on Brevet Rank. — Goes to Europe. In a former part of this volume, we have stated that Scott studied his profession as a science and an art. The science of war is, in relation to physical sciences, very much what oratory, in the contemplation of Cicero, was to other branches of knowledge. In his treatise on that art,^ he considered that nothing less than the whole circle of human studies was the limit of what an orator should acquire, to be complete and eminent in his art. The same idea is true of the art of war, when considered in relation to the physical elements involved in its prac- tice. The modern art of war, as illustrated in the brilliant campaigns of Napoleon, aiFords ample proof of this fact. Military science is in general, however, defined as em- bracing the discipline of troops, the tactics of the field, the arrangement and police of camps, and the strategy of armies in war. This comprehends the duties and the knowledge required of commanding generals. The art ^ Cicero's treatise, De Orators. 12* 180 SCOTT AS A MILITARY WRITER. of engineering, which requires a knoAvledge of the mathe matical and chemical sciences, the art of topographical surveying and drawing, the art of pyrotechny, ct the composition of the various explosive materials of war, and the art of surgery, are all confided to special corps, trained to those duties and practised in them. It is tactics and strategy, however, which constitute the particular part of the science of war, falhng within the province of a general officer. In this department of science, General Scott has con- tributed his full proportion to the knowledge of his coun- try. He thought it no part of his duty to remain merely idle, as too frequently happens to the members of all pro- fessions, when the active and practical part of his duties was no longer required. In peace as in war, there is ample room for the employment of that high and culti- vated intelligence for which officers of the army, nearly all of whom are educated men, are generally distinguished. In the year 1821, General Scott pubhshed an octavo volume, entitled General Regulaiiojis for the Army, or Military Institutes, containing every thing which is ne- cessary for the government and practice of troops, in garrison, in camp, or in the presence of an enemy. No system of the kind had preceded it in America. It was a complete manual for both the regular and the militia officer. Prior to this, in 1814-15, he had also, as president of a board, assisted in preparing a system of infantry tactics, the same which he had introduced and taught in the camp of instruction at Buffalo, in 1814. This was afterwards revised by another board, of which again he was presi dent. It was published in 1825. He was once again, in PRESIDENT OF IMPORTANT BOARDS. 181 1826, president of another board of regular officers and distinguished mihtia generals, called together by the war department for the purpose of reporting — 1. A plan for the organization and instruction of the whole body of the militia of the Union.-^ 2. A system of tactics for the artillery. 3. A system of cavalry tactics, and 4. A system of infantry and rifle tactics. All these were designed for the use of the militia, to aid in the improvement and discipline of that branch of the national defence. Of these several reports, the first and fourth are under- stood to have been exclusively from the p^n of Scott. They have been published for the use and information of the country. In 1835, under a resolution of Congress, he published a new edition, in three small volumes, of the Infantry Tactics, with all the improvements made thereon since the general peace of 1815.^ The basis of the system previously in use was, however, preserved. The reader will readily perceive, that the compilation and composition of several volumes of this kind consti- tutes no small portion of American military literature. In works of this nature, specially American, our country is ' See congressional documents for the session of 1826-7. ^ Somewhere about 1819-20, the United States government employed an officer of the army to translate from the French a work on the science of war, for which the government paid ten thousand dollars. Yet, for want of revision, and adaptation to our circumstances, this work was of no practical use. Hence, we may see what labor and judgment wore required, hy one who, like Scott, prepared proper works for out army. 182 SCOTT LEADS IN A NEW MOVEMENT. quite deficient. The French have been the great writers on mihtary science, and from their works, as we have already- seen, Scott derived much of his knowledge on this subject. We may here say, that much labor, research, reading, practice, and observation, were required to prepare and put forth the works above enumerated. Of their merits^ it is enough to say, that they have been found universally satisfactory to those who are capable of forming an accu- rate judgment on such topics. On another subject, and one of vast magnitude, though apparently foreign to his profession, Scott became a writer ; and such has been the space which that topic has since occupied in the public mind, that we feel it to be only an act of simple justice to record his part in the discussion. That topic was the temperance movement. That the necessity of a temperance reform should oc- cur to a military man, will not appear strange when it is considered, that his professional pursuits bring him into constant association with all classes of society ; and that the exposures of a camp and the hardy life of a soldier, demand from the commanding general the utmost vigi- lance in protecting the health of his troops. Scott was among the very earliest pioneers, in the effort to do something to check and prevent the enormous evil of intemperance. That he was so, will appear evident from the dates which we shall present. The present temperance societies, of all kinds, date back only about twenty years. It is true, that there have been temperance associations and temperance men in all ages since the days of the Rechabites. But that move- ment now known as the Temperance Reform can claim but little, if any earher origin, than 1825. About that HIS ARTICLE IN THE "NATIONAL GAZETTE." 183 year, Dr. Lyman Beecher preached his celebrated tem- perance discourses. He was not precisely the founder of temperance societies, but he was the earliest and strongest advocate of that noble cause. Much earlier than this, December 22d, 1821, General Scott published his " Scheme for restricting the Use of Ardent Spirits in the United States." It appeared in the 180th number, of the above date, of the National Gazette^ edited by Robert Walsh. It occupied twelve columns of a supplement of that paper, and was commended to the public by the following editorial article of Mr. Walsh. We copy it for the purpose of showing, that both General Scott and Mr. Walsh, at that time, adopted all the leading arguments which have since been used so pertinacioTisly and effectually by many eloquent and able advocates of temperance. In the National Gazette of December 22d, Mr. Walsh says — " We issue, in a Supplement to this day's Gazette, ' A Scheme for Restricting the Use of Ardent Spirits in the United States.' The length of this production will not, we trust, prevent it from being generally read. We think the country lies under an obligation to the intelligent and public-spirited author, for the attention which he has bestowed on the subject, and for the instructive and im- pressive facts and opinions which he has brought to- gether, and skilfully exhibited, in furtherance of his great purpose. The topic of the abuse of ardent spirits hardly admits ot exaggeration. That evil is, notoriously, the most extensive and proUfic with which these states are now afflicted. In almost every instance, the atrocious murders which it has been our misfortun- to be obliged 184 EDITORIAL NOTICE OF MR. WALSH. to report, have arisen from habits of inebriety, or been perpetrated under the immediate influence of hquor. If the exertions of legislatures, and of patriotic and humane individuals, are due in proportion to the magnitude and exigence of a national scourge, then their utmost activity and ability should be exercised without the least delay, to promote the end at which our correspondent aims, though his particular scheme be not thought the most practicable or eligible. They will weigh deliberately and earnestly every repressive or corrective project, and adopt, in prefer- ence, that which strikes at the root of the evil, if they do not see insuperable obstacles to its execution." The scheme of General Scott was not adopted. But the arguments and facts adduced by him were the main arguments and facts afterwards used with such force by the temperance societies. It must be remembered, as a part of the known history of the times, that all the early temperance societies were pledged only against the use of ardent spirits. The idea of total abstinence from wine and malt liquors, was not adopted by any of them till within a very few years. Hence, the scheme of General Scott aimed only to suppress the use of ardent spirits ; for, in the army, this was undoubtedly the cause of the largest portion of the prevalent intemperance. The pri- vate soldiers, so often intemperate, used almost alto- gether, rum, brandy, and whiskey. It should be stated here also, that General Scott was, at this time, (1821,) a member of the societies formed in New York for the " prevention of pauperism" — " the suppression of vice and immorality." It was in that con- nection, for these evils are kindred, that Scott reflected upon the magnitude of intemperance, and published the essay, CAUSES OF GENERAL SCOTt's ACTION. 185' portions of which we are aboui to extract. They will show both his ability as a writer, and the sound views he there suggested to the public. scott's views of intemperance in 1821. " It is now many years since the writer of this essay was first made to reflect, with some intensity, on the vice of drunkenness, whilst endeavoring to apply a remedy, in a small corps, to that greatest source of disease and in- subordination in the rank and file of an army. Having the attention so awakened, and subsequently being much accustomed to change of place from one extreme of the Union to another, he has been led to observe, with a more than usual keenness, the ravages of the same habit among the more numerous classes of the community. The con- viction has thus been forced upon him that, of all acci- dental evils, this is the most disastrous to our general population. " Insanity from other causes is, for example, exceed- ingly rare. The yellow fever only visits, occasionally, some of our larger cities on the seaboard — the small-pox, once the terror of the world, has disappeared before the benign influence of vaccination — but the virus of intem- perance still circulates everywhere, and saps the founda- tions of morals, health, and happiness ! For, not minute- ly to dwell, in th^s place, on the innumerable disorders, both domestic and public, which hourly result from the earlier progress of intoxication — happily, in some few in- dividuals never carried to excess, nor ripened into fixed habit — and such ills alone constitute a frightful aggre- gate — how few are the families that have not been, within 186 FACTS AND ARGUMENTS. the memory of the hving, plunged into the deepest afflic tion by this baleful vice ! — that have not had a son blight- ed in the vigor of youth and genius by its pestilential breath — a fond husband alienated by the syren^^or a father laid in an untimely grave by the destroyer, leaving a tender offspring destitute and forlorn. Lives there a person who believes this picture overcharged ? Let him go forth from his corner and inquire of the first man of observation in his w^ay, whether such calamities do not almost daily occur within the sphere of his knowledge ? There can be no doubt that magistrates, lawyers, physi- cians, divines, and others, much in the world, or much conjiected with its business and sufferings, would univer- sally concur in one mournful reply — " ' 'Tis quenchless thirst Of ruinous ebriety that prompts His every action and imbrutes the man — Who starves his own ; who persecutes the blood He gave them in his children's veins, and hates And wrongs the woman he has sworn to love.' " Is there, then, no antidote for this evil — no kind pre- ventive to the mother-vice which augments, in a thousand ways, the general sum of human wretchedness ? " We are told of an ancient spring, the waters of which gave to those who even once drank of them, a sovereign distaste of intoxicating liquors. In our times, private associations have interposed their benevolent efforts to arrest the burning flood : moralists have declaimed, and legislatures enacted partial laws, against it ; and the pul- pit, too, armed with divine revelation, everywhere sends PROBABLE EFFECTS OF THE "SCHEME." 187 Corth its denunciations.^ The evil still spreads. A master emedy yet remains to be found. " ' The gathering number, as it moves along, Involves a vast involuntary throng ; Who, gently drawn, and struggling less and less, Roll in her vortex, and her power confess.' " The argument of the essay was that which was adopted b}^ many of the original temperance advocates and tem- perance societies. It was, that those who drank wine and beer were comparatively temperate, while the great evil to be attacked was the use of ardent spirits. As these views did not prevail, and our object is only to show that Scott was, in the United States, one of the pioneers on this subject, we shall refer the reader to some other views presented in the essay. General Scott proceeds to show some of the happy re- sults which would flow from the adoption of temperance principles — " Thus it has been shown, (and some of the probable results will be more strictly demonstrated,) that, under the operation of the proposed law, ardent or burning spirits might gradually, and in the lapse of a few years, be al- most entirely banished from the country ; other beve- rages, salutary in their effects, or comparatively innoxious, substituted by corresponding degrees ; home industry maintained and promoted ; diseases simplified and di- minished ; fireside enjoyments fenced in against their * He who walks " in the imagination of [his] heart, to add drunkenness to thirst, the Lord will not spare." — Deut. xxix. 19, 20. '* Awake, ye drunkards, and weep." — Joel. " For the drunkard and glutton shall come to poverty." — Prov. xxiii. 21. 188 NECESSITY FOR A REFORM. most powerful enemy ; — in short, our general population rendered as moral and robust as it is, by inheritance and in fact, politically free. " It will not be attempted to class the enterprise herein proposed, with the great revolution which gave birth to our countiy, and a practical example to suffering nations. But, certainly, to break the shackles of that vice which has held and is likely to hold millions of our countrymen in a state of moral bondage and of physical debility, would be a reform only inferior in importance to that hap- piest and most glorious of human achievements." This Essay is accompanied by statistical tables of the number 'of drinkers and sots, which give results very little different from those which were subsequently col- lected and arranged by temperance societies. Below is the estimate of those who may strictly be called the intemperate — Drinkers. Gallons. Hard drinkers daily becoming sots ; and who, on an average, consume three gills each a day, or 34 7-32 gallons a year, Sots rapidly descending into the grave; who, on an average, drink five gills each a day, or 57 1-32 gallons a year: irregularly drank in quantities from a glass to five pints a day, ^AU Indians not included in the cen- sus ; whose intemperance is only limited by their means, (numbers supposed,) 300,000 10,265,625 150,000 350,000 8,554,687 2,074,288" This Essay contains, as above shown, some of the principal facts and arguments used within the last twenty years, so effectually for the suppression of the vice of in- GENERAL PAEZ, OF COLOMBIA. 189 temperance. It is supposed to have led to the formation of the first temperance societies in the United States, some of the earUest in the army. It certainly preceded them, in taking the same ground, and maintaining it by the same arguments. The example of these efforts and associations spread to Europe, and have been followed by benign effects in all quarters of the globe. In the year 1823, General Scott had taken some in- terest in procuring the admission of the sons of General Paez, of Colombia, into the United States military acad- emy at West Point.^ As General Paez was one of the most distinguished and enlightened men of South Ameri- ca, and subsequently became president of that republic, the following correspondence belongs to this place, both as relating to General Scott, and as illustrating the cor- diality and friendly sentiments existing between Colom- bia and the United States. GENERAL PAEZ TO PRESIDENT MONROE. [Translation.] " Caraccas, July 28th, 1823. " Most excellent sir — I have read with most lively satisfaction, in one of the public papers of Venezuela, a statement of the interview which your excellency conceded to Lieutenant Colonel Young, in consequence of the per- mission you were pleased to grant for the admission of ' They received no pay from the government. 190 GENERAL SCOTT WRITES TO GENERAL PAEZ. my sons into the Military Academy at West Point, at the request of General Scott. I have been highly honored by your excellency, and the admission of my sons into your national college, is a laurel presented to me by fortune , but I can never sufficiently appreciate the desire vv^hich you express to see me in your country, and exercise your personal courtesies towards me, nor find language elo- quent enough to manifest my gratitude. I should be happy if I could soon conclude the sacrifice which my country requires from me, in order to proceed to the United States, and form a lasting friendship with your excellency. " I beg you will be pleased to accept the just tribute of admiration and respect with which I have the honor to be— Your excellency's most obedient, humble servant, JosE Antonio Paez. " To His Excellency the President ^ of the United States." ) GENERAL SCOTT TO GENERAL PAEZ. " Fortress Monroe, May 28th, 1823. " Dear General — Our friend Lieutenant-Colonel Young is on the point of returning to Colombia, and will do me the favor to explain to you how our correspondence has been interrupted, and the lively interest I take in the three fine boys you have done us the honor to send among us, for their education. The President deemed this cir- cumstance so flattering to the United States, thtit, follow- ing up his kind feelings for a sister republic, he imme- diately ordered, with the approbation of Colonel Young, PROPHETIC VISION OF A REPUBLICAN. 191 that the boys should, as they successively attained the proper age, be admitted into our national military semi- nary, on a footing with our own cadets. The eldest of the three will join in a few days, and I shall have the pleasure of being present, and of rendering him all the assistance in ni}^ power. You may rely on a continuance of those attentions to him, and also to the other two, who are placed at school near my head-quarters. '' We have heard with deep regret of the loss of two of your ships of war, in an action with a much superior force. Thank God, however, your independence and liberties are placed beyond the reach of foreign aggres- sion. In a few years more, our continent cannot fail to be occupied wholly- by republics. Liberty seems also likely to spread over a large portion of Europe ; and among its gallant assertors, the Colombian army certainly occupies a foremost position. " Permit me, general, to sa}^, that I shall at all times be happy to hear from you, and that I am, with great per- sonal admiration and esteem, Your obedient servant, WiNFiELD Scott. " To General J. A, Paez, &c., «fec." GENERAL PAEZ TO GENERAL SCOTT. [Translation.] " Caraccas, July 20th, 1823. " General — The perusal of your letter of the 28th of May has afforded me the highest satisfaction. In union with the information I have received from Lieutenant- Colonel Young, and from the public papers of Tenezuela, 9 192 CONTROVERSY ON BREVET RANK. it satisfies me how great is the interest you are pleased to take in the education of my children ; and I want lan- guage to express my gratitude in terms worthy of your- self — worthy of so important a service, and still more so of the government that has given so kind a reception to my boys. " If you will have the goodness to convey to your gov- ernment my sentiments of gratitude, admiration, and re- spect, I shall have fresh motives for entertaining towards you the feelings of esteem Avhich you so well deserve. " I join you in congratulations for the events which are about to diffuse liberty throughout Europe. Would that its standard could be beheld from pole to pole ! *' Colombia, unalterable in her principles, and ready to pour out the last drop of blood, and reduce herself to ashes, rather than renounce her country, her liberty, and her glory, congratulates her ally and her republican neigh- bor in the north, in having consolidated her greatness, and planted her flag on the downfall of tyrants. Colom- bia will never forget that North America stood foremost among the nations of ilie world to receive her as an ally. *' You will do me the greatest honor by accepting the assurances of my respect and friendship, and that I am, with great regard, ** Your attentive serv^ant, Jose Antonio Paez. " To Major-General Scott, United States service, "1 In the year 1828, and previously, Scott became involved in a controversy with General Gaines, touching the true rights of brevet rank. Mr. Adams, then President, had appointed General Macomb, major-general of the army, ARGUMENT OF GENERAL SCOTT. 193 there being at that time but one major-general. Scott had been brevetted m.ajor-general, with an older date than the commission of General Macomb. He therefore con- tended that brevet commission gave rank, and if rank, seniority to General Macomb. His argument on this subject is contained in a Memorial addressed to Con- gress,^ asking for a declaratory statute. His argument was — 1. That " from the commencement of the revolutionary war down to the present year, brevet rank has uniformly been held to give command in common with ordinary rank," except only within the body of a regiment, &c. 2. That there existed, " in law or in fact, no higher title or grade in the army, than that of major-general," there being no such thing as a commander-in-chief, except the President. 3. That he. General Scott, held a commission as major- general, July 25th, 1814, of older date than that of Macomb or Gaines. If brevet commissions give rank, it must be admitted this argument is complete. There was, in fact, no such thing, by law, as a commanding general, and the com- mand would necessarily devolve, first, on the highest legal grade, and secondly, on the one of the same grade having the oldest commission. Congress, however, refused to pass a declaratory stat- ute, and the government practicallj^ construed a brevet commission as conferring no rank. In the mean while. General Scott had placed his resig- nation at the disposal of the government, which, however, 1 35 Niles's Register, 324. 194 SCOTT YIELDS HIS OPINION. was not accepted. At length, after it appeared that the President and civil authorities took different views of the question from himself, and after consultations with his friends, he concluded to sacrifice his own feelings and yield to the decision against him. We subjoin the cor- respondence between the Secretary at War and General Scott,^ alike honorable to him who thus frankly yielded up his own position, and to the President, who, though adverse in opinion, yet cheerfully sought to keep him in the service of the country. GENERAL SCOTT TO THE SECRETARY OF WAR. " New York, Nov. 10th, 1829. " Sir— I have seen the President's order of the 13th of August last, which gives a construction of the 61st and 6 2d articles of war, relative to rank or command. " Humbly protesting that this order deprives me of rights guarantied by those articles, and the uniform prac- tice of the army under them, from the commencement of the government down to the year 1828, when the new construction was first adopted against me ; in obedience to the universal advice of my friends, who deem it incum- bent on me to sacrifice my own convictions and feelings to what may, by an apt error, be considered the repeated decision of the civil authority of my country, I have brought myself to make that sacrifice, and therefore with- draw the tender of my resignation now on file in your de- partment. ^ General Jackson had then become President. The letters may be found in the 37 th of Niles's Register, 238. LETTER FROM SECRETARY EATON. 195 *' I also ask leave to surrender the remainder of the fur- lough the department was kind enough to extend to me in April last, and to report myself for duty. WiNFiELD Scott. " The Hon. J. H. Eaton, Secretary of War." SECRETARY EATON TO GENERAL SCOTT. " War Department, j> Nov. 13th, 1829. < " Sir— Your letter of the 10th inst. is received, and I take pleasure in saying to you, that it affords the depart- ment much satisfaction to perceive the conclusion to which you have arrived as to your brevet rights. None will do you the injustice to suppose, that the opinions declared by 3^ou upon this subject, are not the result of reflections and convictions, but, since the constituted authorities of the government have, with the best feelings entertained, come to conclusions adverse to your own, no other opinion was cherished, or was hoped for, but that, on your return to the United States, you would adopt the course your letter indicates, and with good feelings re- sume those duties of which she has so long had the benefit. " Agreeably to your request, the furlough heretofore granted you is revoked from and after the 20th instant. You will accordingly report to the commanding general, Alexander Macomb, for duty. J. H. Eaton. « To Major-General Winfield Scott." In conformity to the letter of the secretary, Genera] Scott ^'vas assigned, by an order from the commanding la* 196 APPROACH OF TIMES OF FEAR. general, to the Eastern department, and General Gaines to the Western. Just previous to this correspondence. General Scott had visited Europe, and made the tour of France, Bel- gium, and Germany. For the next three years he was engaged in the ordinary duties of his department, till 1832, when, as we shall soon see, he was called to new and very different scenes, where the controversy in arms was to be exchanged for the controversy with pesti- lence, that m.ore fearful conqueror than any famed war- riors of the battle-field. TRAITS OF INDIAN CHARACTER. 197 CHAPTER XV. 1831-1832. Indian Character. — Village of the Sacs. — Origin of the Black-Hawk War. — Progress of the War. — Its termination. — Scott sails with the troops from Buffalo. — Progress of the Asiatic Cholera- — Sufferings of Scott's troops. — Scott's kindness in sickness. — Indian Council at Rock Island. — Ke-o-kuck. — Indian Scenes. — Indian Dances. — Indian Treaties. The North American Indians, if not possessed of strong local attachments, have ever manifested a warm and al- most sacred regard for the graves of their ancestors. When passing b}^ they strew handfuls of earth upon them. They part from these tombs with bitter regret, when necessity makes them wanderers from their native land ; and when generations have passed away, even remote descendants return to revisit and honor the spot where their dead have been laid. This feeling is one of the many ti6s which miited them to their original countiy, and which have been rudely and suddenly snapped by the whites. Much of the S3an- pathy felt and expressed for the Indians is mere senti- ment, totally misplaced, in any wase scheme of policy either for them or for the ultimate progress of civilization. But this feehng of religious veneration for the memory of the dead is one which demands the respect of the highest intellect and the most refined taste, [ts violation by the 198 COUNTRY OF THE SACS AND FOXES. frequent and often unnecessary separation of the Indians from the spots which they pecuharly cherished, may well excite the indignant censure of the generous and the good. This disregard of the common rights of humanity has been one of the principal causes of Indian wars, especially of those which have occurred since the Revolution. The superior power of the whites is an idea strongly enough impressed on Indian minds to prevent any aggressions from their side, when they have not been seduced, as by Great Britain in the war of 1812, or have suffered manifest wrongs from the encroaching cupidity of the whites. The principal village of the Sacs and Foxes, for a long period of time, was on the beautiful river peninsula between Rock River and the Mississippi, and near their junction.^ Here, in the midst of a wilderness of beauty seldom equalled, on a soil so rich that the Indian women found little difficulty in planting and gathering their corn, a band of the Sacs resided, as late as 1830.^ Their chief, known as Black Hawk, had been born on that ground.^ Annually they had planted their corn. They loved the rolling waters of Rock River. They loved the lovely island near its mouth; and they loved, as the white man loves, scenes where, from youth to age, they had beheld the splendors of nature ; and they loved that ancient village spot wdiich by repeated burials had be- come the mournful graveyard of the nation.^ By a treaty made with the chiefs of the Sacs in 1804, ^ Life of Black Hawk, by Benjamin Drake, Esq. ^ Idem, p. 98. « Idem, 74. " Idem, 94. THE WHITES TRESPASS ON THEIR LANDS. 199 these lands east of the Mississippi were ceded to the whites ; but it was also provided, that so long as they belonged to the United States, the Indians should have the privilege of living and hunting upon them.^ The United States also guarantied the Indians against any intrusion of the white settlers. Trespasses, however, did occur, by whites, in violation of the laws of Congress, and these acts, unrestrained by the United States gov- ernment, were the exciting causes of the jealousy, irrita- tion, and ultimate hostihty of the Indians. In 1829, the United States put up to public sale, and it was sold, a portion of the Sac village, which was bought by an Indian trader. Black-Hawk, the Sac chief, became irritated, but was advised, that if the Indians had not sold the lands, and would remain quiet, they would be undis- turbed. On the idea that the Indians had not sold their village, he determined to remain.^ In the spring of 1831 the Indian squaws had planted their corn as usual, when it was ploughed up by the w^hites, and the trespasses against the Indians continued. Black-Hawk then gave notice to the whites, that they must remove from his village. On the 19th of May, 1831, a memorial was presented to the governor of Illi- nois, by eight of the settlers, representing that the Indians had threatened themi, and were committing depredations on the whites.^ On the 26tli of May, the governor of Illinois writes, that he had called out seven hundred militia to remove a band of Sac Indians. On the 28th of May, he writes the same to General Gaines. On the 29th of May, Gaines replies that he had ordered six com- » Drake's Life of Black Hawk, 54. « Idem, 99. =" Idem, 100. 200 GENERAL GAINES TAKES THE SAC VILLAGE. panics of the 'United States troops from Jefferson Bar- racks to Rock Island, and four other companies from Prairie du Chien, the object of which was to repel inva- sion and secure the frontier. On the 30th of May, the United States troops reached Fort Armstrong. A con- ference held with the Indian chiefs there proved unavail- ing. General Gaines then called on the governor of Illi- nois for an additional force, and on the 25th of June, Governor Reynolds and General Joseph Duncan, with ] 600 mounted mihtiamen, reached Rock River.^ On the morning of the 26th General Gaines took possession of the Sac village, without firing a gun or meeting an Indian. The Indian party had crossed the Mississippi, with their women and children, the night previous. On the 30th of June, General Gaines and Gov- ernor Reynolds concluded a treaty of capitulation, by which this band of the Sacs agreed to live west of the Mississippi. It is not very interesting, and as little instructive, to recite the petty differences and aggressions between the whites and Black-Hawk's band, prior to their second con- troversy. It is sufficient to say, that in April, 1832, Black-Hawk's band, in violation of the treaty of the 30th of June, recrossed to the east side of the Mississippi, for the purpose, as they said, of joining the Winnebagoes above, and raising a crop of corn and beans with them. General Atkinson, then in command of the United States troops at Fort Armstrong, twice by express, informed Black-Hawk, that if he did not return peaceably he would be forced back. The Indians refused to be driven back, * Drake's Life of Black Hawk, 104. DEFEAT OF THE ILLINOIS MILITIA. 201 and at the same time determined not to^make the first attack, Black-Hawk, finding that the tribes of the Northwest would not join his standard, had resolved to recross the Mississippi.^ They were encamped at Kish-wa-cokee, when the event occurred which brought the opposing forces into actual conflict. The Ihinois mounted militia had proceeded to Dixon's Ferry, a point on Rock River half way between Rock Island and the Indian encamp- ment. From this point Major Stillman, with about two hundred and seventy-five mounted volunteers, proceeded on a scouting expedition to Sycamore Creek, thirty miles further up the river. Hearing that these men were ap preaching, Black-Hawk sent three young men to meet them with a white flag. These young men were met by the whites, and one of them taken prisoner and killed.^ Of a party of five Indians who followed the former one, with pacific intentions, two were also killed. The volun- teers pursued till the whole force had crossed Sycamore Creek. Here, on the 14th of May,^ they met the warriors of Black-Hawk advancing to avenge their companions, were thrown into confusion, recrossed the creek, and, after the loss of twelve killed, were totally routed.'* The Indian success in this engagement encouraged them, while it alarmed the people of Illinois. On the ^ Drake's Life of Black Hawk, 141. * The fact that this young' man, and the two others following', were killed by the American troops in advance, is stated by Black Hawk, and admitted by the followers of Stillman. — Drake's Life of Black Hawk, 142-145. * 42 Niles's Register, 241. ■• Idem, 283. 202 DEVOTION OF THE INDIAN WOMEN. 15th of May, Governor Rey^iolds issued his proclamation, calhng out two thousand more mihtia, to meet at Henne- pin, on the 10th of June. From this time, during three months, a succession of actions took place between the whites and the Indians, with various success. The banks of the beautiful Rock River, of the Wisconsin, and even of the Mississippi, were stained with the blood of the red and the white man. Women and children were not spared, and more than one Indian squaw fell in battle. It is related, that at one place a ball broke the arm of a little child clinging to its mother's breast, and pierced her heart ; while the child, taken up by a kind American officer, was healed and lived !^ Starvation as well as war pursued the bro- ken and flying Indians, whose place of refuge on the Wisconsin had been discovered, and they driven from it. A portion of them, including a number of women and children, attempted to go down the Mississippi, but they were overtaken, and most of them captured or killed. The main body, under Black-Hawk, directed theii course to the Mississippi, near the mouth of the Iowa River. Here they were overtaken, on the banks of the Mississippi, by General Atkinson, with an army of regu- lars and militia. They were defeated and dispersed in the battle called Bad Axe, w^ith the loss of many killed and prisoners.^ Black-Hawk himself escaped, but was soon after taken and delivered up, on the 2Tth of August, ^ Drake's Life of Black-Hawk, 161. ^ General Atkinson's Report to General Macomb, 25th of August, 1832. THEIR LANDS POSSESSED BY THE WHITES. 20? to General Street, the Indian agent, by an act of treachery on the part of two of his followers.* Thus terminated what is called the Black-Hawk War, upon which various opinions have been expressed, but of which the results were what they invariably have been in all contests between the Indians and the whites. The Indians were dispossessed of their lands. They retreated yet further towards the setting sun, leaving the blood of warriors and the tears of women to water the grass which grew upoii the graves of their ancestors. The whites occupy their ancient fields, dig up with inquisitive hands the bones of the dead, replant the soil with the rich and verdant maize, build among them other, more beautiful, and far more magnificent towns ; build other tombs, and bury other dead ; point their spires, like their hopes, to the blue summits of the skies, and fill the circled earth with the resounding fame of arts and arms ! So passes away one race and is followed by another ! Each fulfils in turn the decrees of God, working the pur- poses of his Providence, and all tending to that ultimate and great end — the reforming and reluming the earth. In the midst of the alarm excited in Illinois, as above narrated, and with the expectation that the Winnebagoes, Pottawotamies, and other tribes of the North would unite with Black-Hawk, and thus occasion a general Indian war. General Scott was ordered by the war department to proceed to the scene of action, and take command of the forces destined to subdue the savages. In the beginning of July, 1832, Scott embarked at Buf- falo, with a body of nearly one thousand troops, in four » Drake's Life of Black-Hawk, 163. 204 JOURNEYINGS OF THE PESTILENCE. Steamboats, for Chicago. The purpose was to reach IIH- nois as speedily as possible, and there co-operate with the United States forces under General Atkinson, and the Illinois mounted militia, in the campaign against the Indians. This purpose was counteracted by one of those sudden, severe, and solemn dispensations of Providence, which arrests the best-concerted schemes, startles the strongest intellect, admonishes man of his weakness, and demonstrates, in wonderful ways, the power of God ! If the traveller would pause on the highway, for one sad and thoughtful moment, to contemplate and inquire the name of some pale corpse suddenly brought before him ; so should the historian pause in his narrative of events to remember, record, and reflect upon any one of those unaccountable phenomena in the laws of existence by which God visits the sins of men with the sweeping devastations of pestilence. The Asiatic Cholera is one of these. A native of oriental countries, it w^as long supposed to be confined to Hindostan and the neighboring regions. But in 1831, it spontaneously, and without any observed cause, burst from its former limits, and, like an avalanche, fell with fearful force upon Northern Europe. Crossing from Asia into Russia, it was stopped neither by lines of lati- tude, nor by the cold snows of Scandinavia. It entered Moscow, proceeded to St. Petersburg, ravaged Hungary, and visited nonrly all the populous and renowned cities of Germany. Before it reached either England or France, two hundred thousand persons had already been slain !^ * The following table of deaths in the north and centre of Europe, (for a part only of the cities and countries,) will prove the text: IT WARS WITH MAN, NOT WITH NATURE. 205 The Destro3^er stopped not there. It entered the beauti ful metropolis of fashion, and in twenty days slew one in every hundred of its inhabitants !^ It entered England in May, 1832, and in less than thirty days more, had crossed the broad Atlantic, in emigrant ships, and landed on the shores of North JTmerica ! There, in a temperate climate, with a sparse and hardy population, it was not yet arrested. Various in its effects, it was still onward. [t seemed to move with some invisible spirits of the air. It did not" seem to move with the currents of the wind. It did not poison the water. It did not go or come with flaming heats. Nature smiled as serenely beautiful, on these scenes and days of pestilence, as if she were look- ing down upon a world of joy and ministering to it with Countries. Deaths. Of 1000 inhabitants were attacked. Of 1000 attacked died. Hungary, . . 188,000 4.9 432 Moscow, . . 4,690 24.5 546 St. Petersburg, 4,757 26.4 514 Vienna, . . . 1,899 13.2 477 Berlin, . . . 1,401 9.24 631 Hamburg, . . 455 3.75 521 Prague, . . 1,333 33.4 413 Breslau, . . 671 16.4 528 Koenigsburg, . 1,310 31.2 699 Magdeburg, . 346 15.7 600 Bremen, . . 694 46.2 327 Stettin, . . . 250 15.06 699 Halle, . . 152 12.7 503 Elbing, . . . 283 19.5 658 Total, . . 206,241 Average, 20 This table, it will be seen, includes only Hungary, and the large towns of Germany, with the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg. » From the 28th of March, 1832, to the 14th of April, there died seven thousand si.x hundred and thirty-one in Paris. At that time the disorder had not there reached its height- for it continued in Paris till near June. 206 FEARFLL PROGRESS OF THE PLAGUE. fruitful harvests !^ One thing only was certain. It moved on with the power of a tempest and the terrors of death. Some fled. Some resigned themselves to what might come. Some resorted to amusements. Some engaged with more activity in business. Some were cheered in the midst of danger by a hopefifl disposition and a peace- ful conscience. But however received, with hope or fear, the feeling of a darkly overshadowing evil was upon the whole people. There was a sense that this was an ene- my who could be neither flattered, nor frightened, nor bribed away. Nor could he be conquered. All medical art failed. He must be met, and met with courage, leaving the event among the unveiled mysteries of Providence. Thus passed the cholera along, no impediments ob- structing. Over rivers and over lakes, over prairies and over for- ests, it swept with silent but fatal force. It crept along the low banks of streams, and it ascended with the morning mists the mountain side. In the throngs of pop- ulous cities, and in the solitude of thick woods, it was still the same. It struck with the same unrelenting hand the rosy cheek of childhood, and the hoary locks of age. The human race stood before it, like the forest trees or orchard's fruit before the whirlwind ; the storm comes, and the trees fall, the limbs break, the shrubs bend, the fruit is scatter- ed : the storm is passed, and the remaining trees stand surrounded by broken trunks and by fallen branches ! Such was the precise effect of the cholera of 1832, in ^ It was a singular fact, that in October, 1832, on the Ohio river, when in some places the cholera was terrific, the sun never shone more bright, nor was the air and face of nature ever more bland or beautiful. IT BREAKS OUT AMONG THE TROOPS. 207 the United States. No history can exaggerate the sud- denness, the terror, or the irresistible force of its approach. Many, who might be expected to fall first, escaped, while many of the bravest died even from fear. This was the enemy, the conqueror of conquerors, which attacked Scott's expedition up the lakes, and soon de- stroyed all its power or utility as a military corps. The Asiatic cholera, brought over the ocean in an emi- . grant ship, landed at Quebec in the beginning of June, 1832. Thence it proceeded immediately to Montreal, and thence up the St. Lawrence and the lakes with great ra- pidity. Scott had, as we have said, embarked at Buffalo for Chicago, in the beginning of July, with nearly a thousand men, in four steamboats. On the 8th of July, v/hile on the bosom of the lake, the cholera broke out among the troops with great fatalit}^ The facts attending the presence of this plague among the troops of the northwest have been carefully recorded by the journals of the country, and they will illustrate, as forcibly as any which can be produced, its fatal nature. General Scott, his staff, and about two hundred and twenty men, embarked in the steamboat Sheldon Thomp- son, in which, on the 8th of July, the cholera broke out. The boat arrived on the 10th inst., in the night, at Chica- go,^ and in a short time left there. In these half dozen days, out of two hundred and twenty men, one officer and fifty-one men died, and eighty were left sick at Chi- ^ Scott's Letter to Governor Reynolds, 42 Niles's Register, 424. » 42 Niles's Register 391. 14 208 TESTIMONY OF WITNESSES. In the steamboat Henry Clay embarked Col. Twiggs, with three companies of artillery, and two or three of in- fantry. The fate of these was even Averse than tliat of those in the Sheldon. Even a greater mortality in proportion was experienced, and several of the most promisii:>g officers perished.^ The troops v/ere landed near Fort Gratiot, at the lower end of Lake Huron, in the neighborhood of which they in a few days met with most extraordinary sufferings. We have before us two accounts of the scenes there, and both authentic statements of actual witnesses. One is written to the Journal of Commerce, apparently by an officer.^ It says, July 10 — " Our detachment, which consisted of about four hun- dred, has dwindled dov\^n to about one hundred and fifty, by pestilence and desertion. " The dead bodies of the deserters are literally strewed alono; the road between here and Detroit. No one dares give them relief, not even a cup of water. A person on his way from Detroit here, passed six lying groaning with the agonies of the cholera, under one tree, and saw one corpse, by the road side, half eaten up b)^ the hogs '" Mr. Norvell, of Detroit, writes thus to the editor of the er Philadelphia Enquir " These troops, you will recollect, landed from the steamboat Henry Clay, below Fort Gratiot. A great number of them have been swept off by the disease. ^ Among these was Dr. Josiah Everett, an accomplished officer, who died at Fort Gratiot, on the 15th of July. With him died also Lt. Clay. "42 Niles'sRegisler, 391. ^ Idem, 390. i SCOTT AT THE SEAT OF AVAR. 209 Nearty all the others have deserted. Of the deserters scattered all over the country, soine have died in the woods, and their bodies have been devoured by the wolves. I use the language of a gallant young offices. Others have taken their flight to the world of spirits, with- out a companion to close their eyes, or console the last moments of their existence. Their straggling survivors are occasionally seen marching, some of them know not whither, with their knapsacks on their backs, shunned by the terrified inhabitants as the source of a mortal pesti- lence." At Chicago, as before and after. General Scott exposed himself, though ill, by attending every officer and soldier taken sick. His conduct, in the continual care and effort for those under his charge, has been testified to by num- bers of witnesses, themselves actors and observers in these scenes. Of the nine hundred and fifty men who left Bufialo, the number was in a short time so reduced, that no more than four hundred were left. Scott was detained by these melancholy occurrences for several days, at Chica- go. As soon as he was released, he left Colonel Eustis to follow with his reduced command, and hastened across the prairies to join General Atkinson on the Mississippi. He found him at Prairie du Cl#fcn, on the 3d of August, the day after the battle of Bad Axe. The fugitive Indians were soon brought in prisoners, both with the remainder of the Sac and Fox confederacy, which had remained in a state of doubtful neutrality, and with the Winnebago nation, v/hich had covertly given aid o Black-Hawk's band. In the mean while, about the middle of August, the 210 scott's kindness to the sick. cholera broke out^ among the regulars of Atkinson's army, at Pcock Island, whither Scott had descended from Fort Crawford, Prairie du Chien. Here Scott was called upon to exercise his wonted kindness by attendance upon the sick and the dying. Night and day he visited and comforted them, hinjself always, when near it, laboring under some of the symp- toms of the disease. Feeble in body, he was yet almost constantly in attendance on the afflicted. Great were his efforts to prevent the spread of the disease, and to over- come the symptoms of panic, scarcely less to be dreaded than the original calamity, which from time to time were exhibited. The mortality was appalling, but at length, on the 8th of September, the infection disappeared. To Scott's humane and generous conduct, throughout this terrible battle with pestilence, both at Rock Island and on the Lakes, we have the testimony of one who was an eye-witness, and whose situation made him in all re- spects disinterested. We shall quote his own words — a lanfTuasce as reliable as that of ofhcial documents. He says that " the general's course of conduct on that occasion should establish for him a reputation not inferior to that which he has earned in the battle-field ; and should exhibit him not only as a warrior, but as a man — not only as the hero of battles, but as the hero of humanity. It is well known that the troops in that service suffered se- verely from the cholera, a disease frightful enough from its rapid and fatal effects, but which came among us the more so, from the known inexperience of our medical * 43 Niles's Register, 51. Dr. Coleman, Lieuts. Gale and Torrance, with numbers of soldiers, died. W'^Vhp HIS LAURELS ON THE MISSISSIPPI. 211 men, and from the general belief, at that time, in its con- tagiousness. Under such circumstances it was clearly the general's duty to give the best general directions he could for jDroper attendance on the sick, and for prevent- ing the spread of the disease. When he had done this, his duty was performed, and he might have left the rest to his medical officers. But such was not his course. He thought he had other duties to perform, that his per- sonal safety must be disregarded to visit the sick, to cheer the well, to encourage the attendants, to set an example to all, and to prevent a panic — in a word, to save the lives of others at the risk of his own. All this he did faith- fully, and when he could have had no other motive than that of doing good. Here was no glory to be acquired ; here were none of the excitements of the battle-field ; here was no shame to be avoided, or disgrace to be feared ; because his general arrangements and directions to those whose part it was to battle with sickness, had satisfied duty. His conduct then exhibited a trait in his character which made a strong impression on me, and which, in my opinion, justice requires should not be over- looked."^ This is the language of a calm, intelligent, and impar- tial observer. It proves that the laurels of Niagara had bloomed again on the banks of the Mississippi, but no longer with crimson flowers. They now appear in those soft and lovely hues which make them kindred with the kindest and gentlest of human emotions. Near the middle of September, the cholera having sub- ^ Private lettei of an ofiicer of the army. 14* 212 THE GREAT MAN OF THE SACS. « sided, the negotiations commenced with the Indian tribes, for the final settlement of difficulties. The scene of ne- gotiation was Rock Island. The commissioners on the part of the United States were General Scott and Gov- ernor Reynolds. There, for several weeks, they received and entertained parties of the Sacs, Foxes, Winneba- GOEs, Sioux, and Menominies — all warlike nations, and often at war with one another. They now appeared — constrained into peace or neutrality by the presence of well-disciplined battalions — mingling together in the wild and martial costume of their race. Of these tribes, the Sacs and Foxes, kindred and confederate clans, were the dandies and sometimes the Mamelukes of the forest. Though not very numerous, they are the first in war, the first in the chase, and the first in all that constitutes Indian wealth — cattle, horses, and clothing. Among tliese there was a master spirit, the celebrated Ke-o-kuck, a Sac, then in the prime of life, tall, robust, manly, and who excelled all the sur- rounding red-men in wisdom and eloquence in council,^ in the majestic graces of the Indian dance, and in bold adventure against the buffalo, the bear, and the hostile Sioux and Menominie. Yet this person was not by birth a chief, and therefore held no hereditary power. He rose to be head man of the nation simply by his superior abili- ties.^ Becoming jealous of him, however, the tribe at one time deposed him.^ From this degradation, which he bore with great patience and equanimity, he was not ^ It was he who, by delineating to the Sac nation their true relations to the whites, restrained the Indians from joining Black-Hawk's band iu the war. Drake's Life of Black Ilawk, 116. » Drake's Life of Black Hawk, 115. = Idem, 123. STRANGE AND PICTURESQUE SCENES. 213 altogether restored at the time of the treaty of Rock- Island. He was at that time a kind of treasurer and keeper of the records for the nation. In consequence of hisgreatmeritand talent, General Scott prevailed upon the principal persons of the nation again to elevate him to the chieftainc}^, from which he was not again removed. The scenes exhibited during these conferences, were of the deepest interest and the most picturesque kind. They were adapted rather to the pencil of a poet or a painter than to the grave records of history. The wild son of nature, scarcely more barbarous than those old Greek warriors whose names the song of Homer has borne from age to age on the wings of fame, here confronted the man' of art and civilization, face to face, in warlike array, and in peaceful amusement. The song, the dance, the chase, the rolling drum and the wdiooping shout, the Avhite soldier and the tawny maiden, were mingled together in this conference between the retreating representatives of barbarism and the advancing children of improvement. When the chiefs and warriors of the confederacy on extraordinary occasions approached head-quarters, it was always wdth the loud tramp and shout, which seemed to be rather the clangor of war than the forms of ceremony. When a council was to meet, they came at a furious charge ; suddenly dismounted, arranged themselves in order, and then, between lines of soldiers, entered the pavilion with the firmness of victors, but with all the deep solemity of a funeral. Arrayed in scarlet hues, their national color, sometimes on foot and sometimes mounted, nothing could be more striking than the fine figures, arms, and costume of the men. Their wives and daughters, too, were better looking, better clothed and ornamented. 214 WAR DANCE OF KE-0-KUCK. than other Indian women, and generally sustained the re- putation of virtue and modesty. In the afternoons the scene was frequently enlivened by Indian dances at head-quarters. These dances are generally pantomimes, remarkably descriptive of the achievements, events, and histor}?- of the individual or the tribe. They are exhibited by a large number of young •vyarriors at the same time, to the music of rude instru- ments, and accompanied by occasional whoopings.- The dancers are strictly attentive to time and order, rendering their movements accordant by the modulation of the hand. The dances are principally, either the war, buffalo, or corn dances. The Sac chief Ke-o-kuck^ executed a pas seul, pre- senting a spirited account of a war expedition, which he had himself conducted against the Sioux. The spectator having only a slight intimation of the subject, had yet pre- sented distinctly to his mind the whole story in its vivid details. He saw the distance overcome, the mountains and streams passed, the scouts of the enemy slain, the crooked, stealthy approach, the ambush laid, the terrible whoop and onslaught, and the victory which followed as the crowning triumph of the warrior. Sometimes these Indian dances were followed by cotil- lions, to the music of a military band, in which the American officers mixed, as partners and instructors of the Indians. In these amusements the Indian ladies were 100 modest to engage, but graced the scene with their presence, and testified their enjoyment by cheers and laughter. Meanwhile, a guard of grenadiers looked ' Ke-o-kuck signifies, he who has been everywhere. J CONFERENCES WITH THE INDIANS. 215 on with quiet delight — a band of martial music sent forth its melody, fireworks sent up their red light and gleamed against the evening sk)", shells and rockets burst in the air, the distant hills returned the echo, and these were mingled with the shrill shrieks of Indian applause. Refreshments were handed round nearl}^ in the manner of our cities. Thus the white and the red man, the son of the forest and the pupil of cities, the aboriginal and the Anglo-Saxon, were mingled together in social amuse- ments with strong and singular contrast. The conferences and treaty which fohowed were of high importance, both to the Indians and the United States. Governor Reynolds being an eminent lawyer and a high political functionary, was requested to take the lead in the councils. He, however, declining, it became the duty of General Scott to conduct the discussions. His speeches, and those of the Indian orators were ably and promptly interpreted and taken down at the time, by the secretary to the commissioners, the late talented and accomplished Captain Richard Bache, of the army. By him they were deposited in the archives of the war department. The interviews with the deputations of the Sioux and Menominees were interesting, although merely incidental 10 the war, which was now about to be terminated. But with the confederacy to which Black-Hawk belonged, as also with the V/innebagoes, their accomplices, the nego- tiations and their results were at once grave and impor- tant. Scott opened the council with a speech to the Sacs and Foxes. He paid a just compliment to Ke-o-kuck and certain other chiefs, for their prudence and patriotism in preventing the larger body of their people fi'om rushing into a war, which Black Hawk madly expected with twelve 10 216 GENERAL SCOTT S OPENING SPEECH. hundred warriors, to carry to the shores of the lakes and the Ohio ! He adverted to the fact, that the Mississippi was passed and the invasion commenced, without it being known to the government or people of the United States, that any serious cause of complaint existed on the part of their red brethren. He declaimed against the crime of violating a solemn treaty of friendship, such as had long existed between the parties ; against the murders and desolations committed upon defenceless and unoffending settlers. He complimented Brigadier-General Atkinson and his troops on their vigorous pursuit and final defeat of the lawless invaders : recalled the pains which had been taken for weeks after the battle, to hunt up the wounded, the women aiid children, to save them from imminent starvation ; and the extraordinary care, seen and admired by all, which had been bestowed on those pitiable cap- tives.^ He contrasted these acts of humanity with the cruelties perpetrated on the other side ;^ and took care that the great superiority of Christianity and civilization should be perceived and felt by all who heard him. He next turned to the question of settlement, under the ^ The stragglers were mostly brought in by the Sioux, who were re quested to perform that charitable service. A great chief and his wife, who were childless, had picked up a female infant, whose father had been killed, and whose mother had died of hunger. The aged Sioux had be- come exceedingly attached to the foundling, and begged to be allowed to retain it ; but the surviving relatives demanded the child, and General Scott was powerfully appealed to on both sides. Nothing could be more touching than the simple eloquence of the would-be parents. By inlerces- sioi» and presents, consent was obtained, and the finders carried ofT the prize. "^ There were cruelties on both sides, and some that General Scott was probably not aware of. TREATY WITH THE SACS AND FOXES. 217 instructions received by the commissioners, stated the cost of the war to the United States to be more than a million of dollars ; and claimed the right of holding, with- out further price, any reasonable portion of the enem3^'s country, then in the power of the conquerors ; and after laying down the principle of indemnity in its utmost rigor, he concluded — " But, as the great God above, alike the Father of the white and red man, often deals mildly with his children, even when they have grossly sinned against his holy law and their own best interests, so would the people of the United States, in the fulness of their power, imitate the Divine example, and temper justice with mercy, in dealing with their feeble brethren of the forest." These discussions finally ended in the consummation of treaties with these tribes, which secured to the United States immensely valuable tracts of land, while it also secured to the Indians peace and protection. Two treaties were concluded.^ The one with the Sacs and Foxes ceded to the United States about six millions of acres, constituting the greater part of the then territory and now state of Iowa. It is one of the best parts of the Union — fertile in soil, sufficiently temperate in climate, and abounding in lead and other mineral ores. In consideration of this valuable cession, the United States gave a reservation of about four hundred square miles, on the Iowa River, to Ke-o-kuck and his -friendly band ; agreed to pay the Indians an annuity of twenty thousand dollars per annum for thirty years ; to pay the _debts of the tribe ; and to employ a blacksmith and gun- M3 Niles's Register, 114. 218 TREATY WITH THE WINNEBAGOES. smith, in addition, for them. Besides this, the confederate tribes were left ample space to plant and hunt in, for themselves and their posterity. A similar treaty was made with the Winnebagoes, by which they ceded to the United States nearly five millions of acres, east of the Mississippi, north of the Illinois, and south of the Wisconsin, comprehending a large and valu- able part of the present territory of Wisconsin. To the Indians were reserved the lands beyond the River Wis- consin and Lake Winnebago. To them also were granted annuities nearly as liberal as in the case of the Sacs, to- gether with hunting grounds beyond the Mississippi, and opposite to those reserved. These treaties have been of great value and importance to the people of the United States. In a little more than twelve years, the lands thus granted have become the abode of tens of thousands of civilized and intelligent settlers. The territory of Iowa as well as that of Wis- consin, promises to be among the most fertile as well as best populated parts of the American Union. In these transactions with several tribes of Indians, Scott had the good fortune to be regarded by them as a friend and a brother. He has since, in the East, been visited by both Ke-o-kuck and Black-Hawk ; and more recently, (in 1839,) has been most kindly received by the W^innebagoes, at their own homes in Wisconsin. In allusion to these transactions with the Indians, and to his generous services in ameliorating the horrors and sufferings produced by the cholera, the Secretary of War, General Cass, said, in reply to Scott's final report — " Allow me to congratulate you, sir, upon this fortunate consummation of your arduous duties, and to express my APPROVAL OF SECRETARY CASS. 219 entire approbation of the whole course of your proceed- ings, during a series of difficuhies requiring higher moral courage than the operations of an active campaign, under ordinary circumstances." The assertion of the secretary was entirely correct ; for there have not been wanting those who had defied, in the high hope of glory, all the death-dealing agents of the bloody battle ; and yet, as if terror-stricken by some in- visible power, have quietly sunk under the fears of pesti- lence. Those who knew best, have testified in this as in other actions, not only to the moral courage, but to that invaluable trait of character, a sagacious presence of mind, in General Scott, which has borne him successfully through all the varied scenes of danger, of enterprise, and of high intellectual demand, either moral or physical^ into which his active life has led him. 1 220 SCOTT SENT TO SOUTH CAROLINA. CHAPTER XVI. 1828 TO 1832. General Scott ordered to Charleston. — Tariif of 1828. — Colleton Meeting. — Resistance to the Laws proposed. — McDuffie's Speech.^-St. Helena Resolution. — Germ of Nullification. — Major Hamilton's Speech at Walterborough. — Nullification. — Resolutions of the South Carolina Leg- islature. — ^J. C. Calhoun's Letter from Fort Hill. — Judge Smith's answer at Spartanburg.^ — Union Party. — Convention. — Ordinance of Nullification. — Governor Gayle. — State Resolutions. — General Jack- son's Proclamation. — Troops ordered to Charleston. — General Scott's Orders. — Scott's Arrangements. — Test Oath. — Night Scene in Charles- ton. — Conduct of the Army and. Navy. — Fire in Charleston and Inci- dents. — Scott's Correspondence. General Scott had scarcely returned from the scenes of Indian wars and Indian treaties in the West, when he w^as called to mingle in others on the Southern border, which threatened far more danger to the peace and safety of the American Union. He arrived at New York in October, 1832, and had been with his family but a day or two, when he was ordered to Washington, to receive a new mission and a new trust. After a conference with the president and cabinet, on the difficulties which had arisen in South Carolina, he was dispatched in that direc- tion on a business of the greatest delicacy and impor- tance, and witli powers requiring the exercise of the highest discretion. PASSAGE OF THE TARIFF OF 1828. 221 This difficulty was the attempt to nulhfy the revenue laws of the United States, by the action of a single state, South Carolina. This theory, and the events which fol- lowed its assertion in that state, are commonly, called " nullification." It is unnecessary here to discuss any of the opinions held by various men and parties in the questions connected with a tariff of revenue duties, or with the reserved rights of the states. It is necessary, however, to give the reader a candid statement of the facts and events in this singular portion of American his- tory, in ■ order that the precise situation of the country, when General Scott arrived at Charleston, its internal dangers, and the part he had in quieting those difficulties, may be fairly understood. In this, there is no need of inquiring into motives, and little chance of error ; for the parts of the several actors were performed in public, re- corded by the public press, and sent upon the winds by the voices of a thousand witnesses. It was not so, how- ever, with the part of General Scott ; for his duties were confidential. They were required to be performed with silence and delicacy. Hence, however much might de- pend upon his discretion, the mere fact of its exercise afforded little that was tangible and expressive to the pen of history. Yet we shall see, that his position and con- duct there exercised a controlling influence over the event, and contributed mainly to the peaceful termination of the controversy. The excitement which terminated in what was called "nullification," commenced in consequence of the passage of the tariff act of 1828. That act raised the revenue duties levied on the importation of foreign goods higher than an}^ previous revenue act of the United States. It 222 VOTE OF THE STATES ON THE TARIFF. was passed avowedly for the protection of American in- dustry. It was resisted by nearly all the representatives of the cotton-planting states, on the ground that it was in- jurious. to their interests and contrary to the Constitution of the United States. They argued, that the greater the duties, the less the importations; and that the less the im- portations, the less would be the exportations ; because foreign nations would have less ability to purchase. They deemed it unconstitutional, because they said it was unequal taxation.-^ This was the substance of the argument by which a majority of the citizens of South Carolina arrived at a belief, that the tariff act was both injurious to them, and unconstitutional. On this belief, they proceeded to resist the act by public meetings and inflammatory resolves, and finally to advance and carry out the doctrines of nulli- fication. The tariff act of 1828 was passed on the 15th of May of that year, and from that time henceforward for more than four years, a continual excitement was kept up in the extreme southern states, especially South Carolina and Georgia. In South Carolina, however, the most ultra measures were proposed, and there the question was ^ The vote of the House of Representatives on the tariff act of 1828, should be borne in mind in order that we may clearly understand how the great interests of the country voted. Yeas. JVays. Yeas. JSTaya New England, 16 23 New York, New Jersey, ^ rr f. and Pennsylvania, ( Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, ^ Kentucky, and Mis- ^29 1 Bouri, ) Delaware and Marj^land, Virginia, North Carolina,' South Carolina, Geor- gia, Louisiana, Ten- nessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, 3 60 Total, 105 veas : 95 navs. ADDRESS OF THE COLLETON MEETING. 223 brought to a direct issue, and bloodshed even only averted by the great caution of the public officers, and the milder temperament of Congress. This act, as we have narrated, was passed by the house on the 15th of May, and on the 12th of June, only twenty- eight days afterwards, the citizens of Colleton district, South Carolina, assembled at the court-house, in Walter- borough, and there adopted " an address to the people of South Carolina,"^ which openly avowed the doctrine of resistance to the laws of the Union. This address contains the following passages — "What course is left us to pursue? If we have the common pride of men, or the determination of freemen, we must resist the imposition of this tariff. We stand committed. To be stationary is impossible. We must either retrograde in dishonor and in shame, and receive the contempt and scorn of our brethren superadded to our wrongs, and their system of oppression strengthened by our toleration ; or we must ' by opposing, end them.' " In advising an attitude of open resistance to the laws of the Union, we deem it due to the occasion, and that we may not be misunderstood, distinctly but briefly to state, without argument, our constitutional faith. For it is not enough that imposts laid, for the protection of do- mestic manufactures are oppressive, and transfer in their operation millions of our property to northern capitalists. If we have given our bond, let them take our blood. Those who resist these imposts must deem them uncon- stitutional, and the principle is abandoned by the payment of one cent as much as ten millions.'' Colleton Addresses, 34 Niles, 288-290, 15 224 MR. Mcduffie's toast. In this address, according to its own terms, an attitude was assumed " of open resistance to the laws of the Union." ^ Another address was adopted at the same time, request- ing that Governor Taylor would " immediately convene the legislature of the state." The Colleton movement of "open resistance to the laws" was, however, not seconded by other portions of the state, at that time, and Governor Taylor, in a letter dated the 4th of July, 1828, declined calling the legislature together, prudently remarking, that " the time of great public excitement is not a time pro- pitious for cool deliberation, or wise determination."^ On the 19th of June, a dinner w^as given, at Columbia, South Carolina, to Mr. George McDuffie, one of the representatives in Congress.^ At this dinner, he recom- mended the laying, by the state, of a tax on Northern manufactured goods, and concluded with the toast, which was drunk with great applause^ — " Millions for defence, not a cent for tribute." During the remainder of the year 1828, the excitement increased in South Carolina, Georgia, and some parts of Alabama. Many public dinners were given to the repre- sentatives of South Carolina, especially Mr. George McDuffie. At these assemblies inflammatory toasts w^ere given, and numerous warm speeches made. Several of the new^spapers in the lower part of South Carolina spOke as if that state had been deprived of her constitutional rights, and the general government converted into an ab- ^ Governor Taylor's Letter, 34 Niles, 3GG. « 3i Niles, 302. 2 Idem. 339 ST. HELEIVA RESOLUTION. 225 solute despotism, which it was as much the duty of citi- zens to resist, as if they had hved in the days of the Revohition, and were opposing the taxation of Great Britain.^ Nulhfication was not then altogether formed and shaped in the plans of those disposed to resist the general gov- ernment. There was, however, a germ of that idea found in several of the resolutions passed at pubhc meetings. At the parish of St. Helena the following resolution was passed — " Resolved^ That, differing from those of our fellow- citizens who look to home production, or more consump- tion of the fabrics of the tariff states,^ as a relief from our present burdens, we perceive in these expedients rather an ill-judged wasting of the public energy, and diversion of the public mind, than an adequate remedy for the true evil, the usurping spirit of Congress, which (since that bod}^ will never construe down its own powers) can be checked, in our opinion, only by the action of states op- posed to such usurpation."^ This was the germinal idea of what afterwards became nullification, though perhaps not first announced at that particular place. In many counties of Georgia the anti-tariff excitement was also developed, in public meetings and resolutions ; but there the measures were not of the same species. It was there proposed to lay an excise duty on Northern ^ 34 Niles, 302. Seo the body of McDuffie's speech. ' This was m reference to the fact, that at many of the meethigs in South Carolina, it was resolved to wear only their own manufactures, and •abstain wholly from those niudc north of the Potomac. ^ 35 Niles, page 62. 226 SPEECH OF MAJOR HAMILTON. manufactures, and it was resolved not to consume the produce, especially the staple articles, of Kentucky, Ohio, and other states, which had supported the tariff.^ The grand jury of Wilkes county, Georgia, at the close of the session of the superior court, in which the Hon. Wilham H. Crawford presided as judge, made the sub- jeel. of the tariff one of the objects of their consideration, and they recommended the legislature and their repre- sentatives in Congress, to take such measures on the subject as they constitutionally could. They wisely ex- pressed themselves thus, in regard to the excitement then abroad — "To our fellow-countrymen we would recommend, moderation in feeling, temperance in language, forbear- ance in all things."^ At length, in November, 1828, in a speech made by Major James Hamilton, who had been a member of the preceding Congress, at Walterborough, South Carolina, the plan was developed which four years subsequently it was attempted to carry out.^ In that speech he represented that the country had reached a crisis, in consequence of the " abuses of inter- nal legislation" among the members of '' its separate and confederate sovereignties." He depicted South Carolina as in ruins, and the wilderness returning to cover with * At Laurens C. H., S. C, at Edgefield, in Baldwin and Montgomery- counties, Georgia, and in other places, it was resolved not to consume or buy, the hogs, cattle, mules, bacon, &c., the products of the western tariff states. Kentucky and Ohio, it will be observed, had voted unani- mously for the tariff of 1828. " 35 Niles, 63. ' Idem, 203-208. HE RECOMMENDS NULLIFICATION. 227 weeds and forests the homes of civiHzation, and this alto- gether as a consequence of the tariff. The picture was drawn with great eloquence and force, and if it were a reality, there was certainly much to lament. " Look abroad," says Major Hamilton, "through this once happy, this once prosperous land ; see the wil- derness regaining her empire. Look at these wa^te and desolate spots which once teemed with fertilit}^ and hfe, abandoned to the fern, which rears its head amidst soli- tudes which were once blessed by the smiling industry of man. Where are now those beautiful homesteads and venerable chateaux which once adorned the land of our fathers, the abodes of hospitality and wealth, from which the most generous benefaction^ were dispensed to con- tented labor, by which slavery itself lost half the burden of its chains in the kindness with which they were im- posed ? Gone, fallen into irreversible decay. On the very hearth-stone where hospitality kindled the most genial fires that ever blazed on her altars, the fox may lie down in security and'peace; and from the casement of the very window from which notes of virtuous revelry were once heard, the owl sends forth to the listening solitude of the surrounding waste, her melancholy descant, to mark the spot where desolation has come." Such were the strains by which South Carolina was called to believe herself deeply injured, her feelings out- raged, and her rights violated. " But how," says the orator, "are we to interpose for the purpose of arresting the pro- gress of the evil ?" To this he replies — " A nullification, then, of the unauthorized act is the rightful remedy."^ 35 Niles's Register, 208 15* 228 RESOLUTIONS OF THE S. C. LEGISLATURE. • This doctrine was professedly founded on the Virginia and Kentucky resolutions of 1798, and it was defended as a peaceful measure. Looking, however, to bloodshed as a possible consequence, it was argued that this could only take place as the act of the majority. Such an act, says Major Hamilton, would dissolve the Union ; but, says he, " if the Union be dissolved, theirs will be the odium of such a lamentable disruption." This was the sort of language addressed to the people of South Carolina, and under its influence the excitement increased. When the legislature of South Carolina met in Decern ber, the feeling which was so strongly developed among the people was exhibited with equal strength in that body. Messrs. Preston, Waddy Thompson, and Holmes, offered resolutions in the House of Representatives^ of which the substance was, that the tariff acts were palpable and dan- gerous infractions of the Constitution, and that the state had the right to interpose and arrest them. Other resolutions were offered of various shades ot opinion, but the one finally adopted was, that it is expe- dient again to remonstrate, to enter a protest, and to make a public exposition of wrongs.^ In the Senate a more violent course was adopted. It was there ^^ Resolved, That the tariff acts of Congress for the pro- tection of domestic manufactures, are unconstitutional, and should be resisted,' and the other states be invited to co-operate with us in the measures of resistance."^ In the mean while, James Madison had written two » 35 Niles's Register. 304. "" Idem, 306. ' Idem, 308. EFFECT OF MR. MADISON S LETTERS. 229 letters, published by a friend, declaring the constitu- tionality of the tariff.^ These letters appear to have had a sedative effect on the anti-tariff excitement ; for the public mind seems immediately afterwards to have been diverted to other objects, and nullification was not attempt- ed till four years had passed away. In May, 1832, however, Congress again revised the tariff, not for the purpose of increasing the duties — but for that of remodifying them, and rendering some of them more agreeable to the Southern states. That it had done so, Colonel Drayton declared in an address to the people of South Carolina, exhorting them to sustain the Union.^ It proved unsatisfactory, however, to those who had so vehemently opposed it in 1828 ; and the excitement was again renewed. The remedy which had been suggested by the St. Helena resolutions, and put forth in Major Hamil- ton's speech, w^as now openly declared to be the right of the state, and that which the people should adopt, if they had spirit, or liberty. Their imaginations were infla- med with the idea, that they were deliberately imposed upon by the majority of the Union, and that honor required that they should assert their dignity and their rights, by re- sistance. Inflamniator}'' toasts were drunk at pubhc meet- ings, and the ablest and most distinguished public men supported the measures, which it was assumed were right, and by which the state was to resist the laws of the Union. Mr. John C. Calhoun, in a letter dated " Fort Hill, 30th of July, 1832," declared that nullification was a peaceful remedy, and necessary to the preservation of other powers.^ * 45 Niles's Register, 2. « Idem, ^ 43 Idem, 56. 230 LETTER OF MR. CALHOUN. • *' The ungrounded fear," said he, " that the right of a state to interpose in order to protect her reserved powers against the encroachments of the general government, would lead to disunion, is rapidly vanishing, and as it dis- appears, it will be seen that so far from endangering, the right is essential to the preservation of our system, as essential as the right of suffrage itself. " Thus thinking, I have entire confidence that the time will come, when our doctrine, which has been so freely denounced as traitorous and rebelhous, will be hailed as being the great conservative principle of our admirable system of government, and when those who have so firmly maintained it under so many trials, will be ranked among the gi-eat benefactors of the country." The doctrine of " state interposition" against the gen- eral government, is here defended as an essential right, and the future approbation of the people confidently ex- pected. To understand the exact state of things in South Caro- lina, at that time, and the conflict likely to ensue between the majority in the state supporting nullification by the state power, and the general government executing the laws, with a minority in South Carolina supporting it, we must review two or three other important movements. The doctrines of Mr. McDufKe, Major Hamilton, Mr. Calhoun, and other leaders of the nullification party, were as strongly opposed by other distinguished men in South Carolina. Judge Smith, former^ United States Senator, in an address to the people of Spartanburgh district, thus writes — " To say you can resist the general government, and remain in the Union, and be at peace, is a perfect delu- TWO PARTIES IN THE STATE. 231 sion, calculated only to hoodwink an honest community, until they shall have advanced too far to retrace their steps ; which they must da, and do with disgrace and humiliation, or enter upon a bloody conflict with the general government. For the general government cannot bow its Sovereignty to the mandates of South Carolina, while the Union is worth preserving. And be assured, it will not bow to the mandate of any state, while the sove- reign people believe that a confederated government is calculated to promote their peace, their honor, and their safety."! It is seen that the political ideas inculcated in the ex- tracts last quoted, are directly opposed to those stated in the former extract from the letter of Mr. Calhoun. The latter assumes the supremacy of the Union, the former that of the State, under the name of state interposition. Hence, in the controversy which ensued, the name of the party of the majority was known as the nullification party, and that of the minority as the Union party. The con- troversy between these parties in the state was even more excited than that between the state and the general gov- ernment. This was the state of things when, in October, 1832, the legislature of South Carolina passed an act providing for the " calling of a convention of the people" of that state.^ The object of this convention in the terms of the act, was "to take into consideration the several acts of the Congress of the United States, imposing duties on foreign imports for the protection of domestic manufac- tures, or for other unauthorized objects ; to determine on the character thereof, and to devise the means of redress.'' » 43 Niles's Register, 42. ' .dem, 152. 232 ORDINANCE OF THE CONVENTION. The convention elected according to this statute, as sembled at Columbia, the seat of government, on the 19th of November, 1832.^ The .convention being assembled, enacted an " ordinance," whose title was " to provide for arresting the operation of certain acts of the Congress of the United States, purporting to be taxes. laying duties and imposts on the importation of foreign commodities." On the final passage of the ordinance the word " nulli- fy" was substituted for " arresting."^ This ordinance assumed to nullify the laws . of the United States, to prevent the operation of the courts, and finally, to place all officers under oath to obey only the ordinance, and the laws made to give it effect. The 2d section pronounced the tariff acts of 1828 and 1832 " null, void, and no law, nor binding upon the state, its officers, or citizens." The ^d section declared it unlawful " for any of the constituted authorities, whether of the state or the United States, to enforce payment of the duties imposed by said acts, within the limits of the state." The 4i/i section ordered that no case of law or equity decided in that state, wherein was, drawn in question the validity of that ordinance, or of any act of the legislature passed to give it effect, should be appealed to the supreme court of the United States, or regarded if appealed. Section btli required that every one who held an office of honor, trust, or profit, civil or military, should take an oath to obey only this ordinance, and the laws of the legislature passed in consequence of it. The GtU section declared, that if the general govern » 43 Niles's Register, 219. « Idem, 277 MESSAGE OF GOVERNOR GAYLE. 233 ment should employ force to carry into effect its laws, or endeavor to coerce the state by shutting up its ports, that South' Carolina would consider the Union dissolved, and would "proceed to organize a separate government." No one could for a moment doubt the meaninc^ or bear- nig of this ordinance. It was an open, frank, and direct resistance of the laws of the Union, and notwithstanding the confident expectations of fellowship and assistance from other anti-tariff states, it was soon apparent that they would oppose the violent course of opposition to the law marked out by the South Carolina convention. Nor did the measure tend towards peace even in South Carolina. A Union convention was soon after held to counteract this movement.* The neighboring states Avere very explicit in their opposition. Governor Gayle, in his message to the Alabama legislature, condemned nullifica- tion in the strongest terms. " If," said he, "it [nullifica- tion] shall be recognised as the true constitutional doc- trine, that a state can remain a member of the Union, and at the same time place her citizens beyond the reach of its laws, ours will not be the shadow of a government, and for all practical- purposes it will be dissolved. But the strife and dissension which have been produced by the persevering efforts of the advocates of this doctrine, to gain for it the favorable opinion of the people, have been carried to such excesses, that it is already growing into an evil not less to be deprecated than the tariff itself. If the firstfruits of this doctrine of peace are deep and bitter feelings of personal hostility, furious family discords, and a destruction, in fact, of the peace and harmony of * 43 Niles's Register, 279 234 PROCLAMATION OF GENERAL JACKSON. society, what are we to expect when it puts forth in all its vigor ?"^ The legislature of Tennessee passed resolutions iinani- mously (one member declining to vote) denouncing nulli- fication^ in the strongest terms. The legislature of Georgia, also a strong anti-tariff state, passed anti-nullification resolutions, by strong ma- jorities." By the action of these adjoining states. South Carolina was left alone in the plan which she had proposed, of arresting the operation of the United States laws by state interposition. Nevertheless, the ordinance passed by the convention was decisive of her course. The legislature at its next session, passed acts to carry into effect the ordinance, and a large body of volunteers w^as called into the state service.^ This was the state of things in South Carolina, and in the Union, when, on the 10th of December, 1832, General Jackson issued his proclamation, exhorting all persons to obey the laws, denouncing the ordinance of South Car- olina, and giving a very clear exposition of the principles and powers of the general government.^ This proclama- tion was written witli great ability, and coming from the most popular man in the United States, exercising the functions of chief magistrate, and taking part with that love of union which, in all times and all circumstances, ^ 43 Niles's Register, 220. Resolutions of Alabama, 387. 2 Idem, 220. ^ 43 Niles, 279, 286. These resolutions were also passed in a number of other states. In Pennsylvania, 43 Niles, 333 ; New York, 386 ; North Carolina, 386 ; Indiana, 400 ; Delaware, 422. * 43 Niles's R^^gister, 288, 300, 332. ' Idem, 260 ANSWERED BY THE S. C. LEGISLATURE. 235 has been an clement in American character, the procla- mation was universally read, and almost miiversally re- ceived with approbation and applause. Tiie legislature of South Carolina answered in an appeal to the people of that state .^ Two citations from the proclamation of General Jack- son will show the principles and object of that instru- ment. "I consider, then," says the President, "the power to annul a law of the United States, assumed by one state, incompatible with the existence of the Union, contradicted expressly by the letter of the Constitution, unauthorized by its spirit, inconsistent with every principle on which it was founded, and destructive of the great object for which it was formed.^ " This, then, is the position in which we stand. A small majority of the citizens of one state in the Union have elected delegates to a state convention. That con- vention has ordained that all the revenue laws of the United States must be repealed, or that they are no longer a member of the Union. The governor of that state has recommended to the legislature .the raising of an army to carry the secession into effect, and that he may be empowered to give clearance to vessels in the name of the state. No act of violent opposition to the laws has yet been committed, but such a state of things is hourly apprehended, and it is the intent of this instrument to PROCLAIM not only that the duty imposed on me by the constitution ' to take care that the laws be faithfully exe- cuted,' shall be performed to the extent of the powers ^ 43 Niles's Register, 300. « Idem, 261. 236 HOSTILE ARRAY OF SOUTH CAROLINA. already vested in me by law, or of such other as the wisdom of Congress shall devise and intrust to me for that purpose ; but to warn the citizens of South Carolina who have been deluded into an opposition to the laws, of the danger they will incur by obedience to the illegal and disorganizing ordinance of the convention; to exhort those who have refused to support it, to persevere in their de- termination to uphold the constitution and laws of their country, and to point out to all the perilous situation into which the good people of that state have been led, and that the course they are urged to pursue is one of ruin and disgrace to the very state whose rights they affect to support." The ordinance of South Carolina passed November 24th, 1832,^ the President's proclamation was signed on the 10th of December, and on the 21st of December, the South Carolina legislature adjourned, having passed the laws necessary to give effect to the ordinance.^ These were the several acts on which depended the possibility and even probability of an actual conflict between the authorities of South Carolina and the general government. The promulgation and strong language of the President's proclamation was in itself the most authentic proof of the intensity of feeling, and the fear of danger, which existed among the people of the United States in consequence of the South Carolina ordinance, and the military array by which it was proposed to support it.^ ' 43 Niles's Register, 277. = Idem, 301. ^ The governor had called out twelve thousand volunteers. The whole state was a military camp, and the utmost zeal was exhibited, by those who contended for nullification, to defend their views in any way what- ever. See 43 Niles's Register, 288, 318. and various other passages EXTRACT FROM GENERAL JIACOMB S ORDER. 237 In the mean while, the President and cabinet Avere making all arrangements preparatory to a conflict, with a determination to stand on the defensive ; but with a firm resolve also, to collect the revenue and enforce the laws of the United States. It is at this point m history, that General Scott was called, in the exercise of his military functions, to per form a part, not very conspicuous to the public eye, but most important in its consequences to the Union and the future welfare of the republic. What part that Avas will be shown by the unimpeachable testimony of authentic facts. Before the ordinance was passed, and about the period of the session of the South Carolina legislature which provided for the meeting of the convention, President Jackson, from facts which came to his knowledge, thoughi it not improbable that an attempt would be made to seize or in some way get possession of the forts in the harbor of Charleston. To prevent this. General Macomb issued an order,^ dated "Washington, October 29th, 1832," directed to Major Heileman, commanding the United States troops at Charleston. A paragraph from this order will ex- plain a portion of this history. The order says — " It is deemed necessary that the offi- cers in the harbor of Charleston should be advised of the possibility of attempts being made to surprise, seize, and occupy the forts committed to them. You are therefore especially charged to use your utmost vigilance in counter- acting such attempts. You will call personally on the - " Orders" transmitted to the Senate by the President, 43 Niles, 436. 238 ANXIETY OF THE GOVERNMENT. commanders of Castle Pinckney and Fort Moultrie, and instruct them to be vigilant to prevent surprise in the night, or by day, on the part of any set of people what- ever, who may approach the forts with a view to seize and occupy them. You will warn the said officers that such an event is apprehended, and that they will be held responsible for the defence, to the last extremity, of the forts and garrisons under their respective commands, against any assault, and also against intrigue and surprise. The attempt to surprise the forts and garrisons, it is ex- pected, will be made by the militia, and it must be guarded against by constant vigilance, and repulsed at every hazard. These instructions you will be careful not to show to any persons, other than the commanding offi- cers of Castle Pinckney and Fort Moultrie." This was a confidential order, and its terms express the apprehension and anxiety then felt by the government. On the 7th of November an order from the war depart- ment directed two companies of artilleiy to proceed forth- with to Fort Moultrie, Charleston harbor.^ On the 12th of November, a further order^ from Gen- eral Macomb to Major Heileman directed, that the " citadel" in Charleston, and belonging to the State of South Carolina, should be delivered up, with the state arms, if required ; that every thing should be done with cour- tesy, but, if attacked, the ti-.oops should defend themselves. At this crisis the-services of General Scott, in a mission to South Carolina of extraordinary delicacy, were called into requisition by President Jackson. On the 18th of November, 1832, a confidential order^ was issued from » 43 Niles, 437. ^ Idem. ^ Idem. Published February, 1833 ORDER TO GENERAL SCOTT. 239 the war department to General Scott. The order, after expressing the President's sohcitude as to affairs in South Carohna, a hope from the inteUigence of the people, and a fear lest some rash attempt should be made against the forts of the United States in the harbor of Charleston, proceeds to say — " The possibility of such a measure furnishes sufficient reason for guarding against it, and the President is there- fore anxious that the situation and means of defence of these fortifications, should be inspected by an officer of experience, who could also estimate and provide for any dangers to which they may be exposed. He has full confidence in your judgment and discretion, and it is his wish that you repair immediately to Charleston, and examine every thing connected with the fortifications. You are at liberty to take such measures, either by strengthening these defences, or by reinforcing these gar- risons with troops drawn from any other posts, as you may think prudence and a just precaution require. ''Your duty will be one of great importance, and of great delicacy. You will consult fully and freely with the col- lector of the port of Charleston, and with the district attorney of South Carolina, and you will take no step, except what relates to the immediate defence and security of the posts, without their order and concurrence. The execution of the laws will be enforced through the civil authority, and by the mode pointed out by the acts of Congress. Should, unfortunately, a crisis arise, when the ordinary power in the hands of the civil officers shall not be sufficient for this purpose, the President shall de- termine the course to be taken and the measures adopted. Till, therefore, you are otherwise instructed, you will act 11 240 GENERAL SCOTT REACHES CHARLESTON. in obedience to the legal requisitions of the proper civil officers of the United States. *' I will thank you to communicate to me, freely and confidentially, upon every topic which you may deem it important for the government to receive information. " Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, Lewis Cass." «' Major-General Winfield Scott." In addition to this order, there was a personal interview between the President, some of the cabinet, and General Scott, in which the principles and views held by General Jackson and his administration were fully ex- pressed.^ General Scott arrived in Charleston on the 28th of November, just tw^o days after the passage of the ordi- * nance. All was excitement. He found the people of. Charleston divided into two parties, nearly equal in point of numbers, and each exasperated tow^ards the other. It happened that this was the usual period for General Scott's annual tour of inspection along the Atlantic coast, in which he included also the arsenals of the interior. He therefore suffered it to be believed, that he was now on this ordinary duty. Fortunately, too, he happened to be lamed, by accident, on. the road, which gave him a sufficient pretext for lingering awhile at Charleston, Au- gusta, and Savannah, without awakening any jealousy or suspicion of the great purpose of his visit. It was as important that he should not, by his presence ^ See Secretary Cass'-s Letter, dated December 3d, 1832, in 43 Niles. ARRIVAL OF TROOPS AND ARMED VESSELS. 241 or liis acts, increase the excitement of the public mind, already too much inflamed, thus precipitating rash meas- ures on the part of South Carolina, as it was that, in the last resort, he should maintain the supremacy of the laws held to be constitutional by every department of the federal government, and alike binding on all the states. This duty he was resolved to execute at every hazard to himself, but with all possible courtesy and kindness com- patible with that paramount object. In this, his heartV warm feeling was, that the disaffected might be soothed, and South Carolina held in affectionate harmony with hei sister states. The 1st of February had been fixed by the ordinance as the crisis, provided Congress did not previously modify the tariff. Scott passed rapidly along to Augusta, Savan- nah, and Charleston, quietly laying his plans and dis- patching orders, so as to be ready for any event. The best understanding was established between the United States district attorney, the marshal, and himself. In conjunction with the collector of the port, it was arranged to establish the custom-house, when necessary, under the guns of Fort Moultrie. This is six miles below the city, and commands the entrance to the harbor. He called for steambpats, armed vessels, and troops, all of which arrived from different points without the knowledge of each other's approach.^ He caused Fort Moultrie and ^ One company of the 1st artillery, two companies of the 3d artillery, and three companies of the 4th artillery, were ordered to Charleston harbor, in November and December, in addition to tliose under the com- mand of Major Heileman. The Natchez, the schooner Experiment, and the revenue cutters, were ordered there, under the command of Commo- dore Elliott. 242 SCOTT STRENGTHENS THE FORTIFICATIONS. 9 Castle Pinckney, in Charleston harbor, and Augusta arsenal, which was full of supplies, and on the borders of South Carolina, to be strengthened and well garrisoned. Then, having seen every thing ready, or in rapid prepara- tion for the worst, he sailed from Charleston for New York, without having awakened a suspicion of his being connected with impending events. Towards the end of January^ he returned by sea to Fort Moultrie, and was at the post of danger many days before it w^as known in the city. His presence, with that of the vessels of war, the revenue cutters, and additional troops, which had now arrived, left no room to doubt that the government was fully determined that the revenue duties imposed by law should be collected in Charleston, as in all other ports of the Union. During his absence, the leading opposers of the tariff had called a meeting, and informally agreed, that notwith- standing the period for the open resistance of the law had been fixed by the convention for the 1st of February, no attempt to execute the ordinance of nullification should be made before the adjournment of Congress, on the 3d of March, and the second meeting of the convention, which was to be held a few days later.^ Happily for all, the res- olution was strictly observed. In the mean time, the excitement had greatly increased. The state legislature had met in December, and passed ^ In a letter written in December, the Secretary at War expresses the approbation of the government for what Scott had done at his first visit. ^ See the Charleston Resolutions, 43 Niles, 381. It w^as one of the political curiosities of the times, that a solemn ordinance of the state of South Carolina should be set aside at the request of a meeting in one place. THE ORDINANCE REQUIRES A TEST OATH. 243 laws for the raising of troops and money, and for the purchase of arms and ammunition. All these were soon obtained. Volunteers were seen at drill through the state. Charleston was full of them. The palmetto cockade and the palmetto buttons distinguished the nullifiers from the Unionists} A determined spirit of resistance to the rev- enue laws, however misdirected or deplored, was, in fact, everywhere exhibited. A scene which took place just at this time in the streets of Charleston, will illustrate most forcibly the vio- lence of feeling then existing on political subjects, the .great and instant danger of civil commotion, and the nar- rowness of that verge of bloodshed and disunion, upon w^iich the people of the state and the nation then stood. Determined, if possible, to carry out the desperate plans in which they had most rashly embarked, the nulli- fiers had, as we have narrated,' not only called out large bodies of armed volunteers, but had actually, by their ordinance, required the citizens of South Carolina to take a test oath of exclusive allegiance to the state. ^ This ^ It was one of the resolutions of the Charleston meeting, that the vol- unteers should " wear a blue cockade, with the palmetto button in the centre." It is another political curiosity, that the " palmetto buttons" v/orn by the volunteers of South Carolina in resisting the laws of the Union, should have been made in Connecticut. This fact should suggest a hint whether our American manufactures were not both useful and necessary to all. The palmetto buttons were ia fact made in Con- necticut, and also most beautifully made. The state coat of arms could hardly appear to more advantage. ^ The Court of Appeals in South Carolina, with great personal disin- terestedness and moral independence, declared the ordinance of the Con- vention of South Carolina, unconstitutional on this point. It was in the case of the State vs. Hunt, 2 Hill's South Carolina Reports, 1. They de- 16* 2'14 A MEETING OF THE UNIONISTS. perhaps more than any one measure, exasperated the Union party. They deemed it unconstitutional, and de- structive of their personal rights, not less than of tlie general allegiance which was due to the laws of the Union. They therefore, like the nullifiers, formed asso- ciations,^ took measures for defence, and, in a word, two parties stood fronting one another hke hostile bodies of opposing nations. It was just at this time that the respective parties held nightly meetings in the city of Charleston. In those popular meetings, and with this high political animosity, there was danger, great danger of a col- lision which would result in bloodshed and disaster. Notwithstanding all this, there was great personal cour- tesy, so becoming to gentlemen and men of honor, be- tween the leaders and chief actors of the opposing parties. On one evening, when there was a meeting of both parties, Mr. Pettigru^ received a note from General Hayne, re- questing that the Unionists would return home through Meeting-street, as by going the usual route there would be danger of collision. The Union party were then in assembly and much e?vcited. It Vv^as quite natural that they should answer as they did, that " they were armed, and would go which way they chose." After this mes- sage, Mr. Poinsett addressed the meeting, advising them cided the oath of allegiance to South Carolina was unconstitutional and void, because inconsistent with the allegiance of the citizen to the federal government. - ^ This was particularly the case with the District of Greenville. They here, literally, nailed the colors to the mast, and declared that they who would enforce th? ordinance, must do it by the bayonet. ' Mr. Pettigru was of the Union party. A SCENE IN THE STREETS. 245 to wear a white badge on the left arm, to make no attack, but, if attacked, defend themselves at the hazard of their lives. They sent out, and bought a piece of white mus- lin, which they tore into pieces to make badges of. This done, they marched on the same streets as they were ac- customed to. At length, they met the nuUifiers marching on the same street with themselves, but in an opposite direction. Just at this moment, whether purposely or accidentally, some of the nullifiers struck the arm of Colonel Drayton. It was observed, and at once the cry ran through the Union ranks — " Colonel Drayton is struck — defend him !" Instantly, with great presence of mind, Colonel Drayton remarked — " Stop ; it was only an accident !" The meeting passed on, and Charleston was saved from the blood of her citizens flowing from the worst of all causes — civil war !^ Had less prudence or presence of mind existed among some of the leading gentlemen at that crisis, the descend- ants of a common revolutionary stock, of a patriotic and honorable ancestr}^ for differences of opinion only, would have been found inflicting mortal wounds on each other, and as mortal wounds on the reputation of their common countr}^ The blood indeed might have been stanched, and the dead replaced, by living shoots. But not so the stain, the grief, and the memories. They would long have lingered, like mourning witnesses to sad disasters. If history be not silent on the events which then oc- ^ This incident was related to me by an eye-witness. It is possible that it may be varied in some slifrht particular, but it is in the substance correct It in reality occurred a month or two earlier than we have placed it in the text ; but it is cqualiy valuable as an illustration of history. 246 THE BIRTHDAY OF WASHINGTON. curred, or on the part taken by distinguished citizens of South Carohna, still less should it omit a just testimony to the forbearance and prudence of the general and troops of the United States employed in so delicate and danger- ous a service. The officers and men of the army and navy bore them- selves vv^ith the meekness and solemnity proper to so grave and unusual a duty. In no instance did they in- dulge in any display, except on the 22d of February. Then rockets blazing through the skies, and guns sound- ing over the waters, told that, as Americans, they remem- bered and blessed the anniversary of that day, which gave birth to the father of the country and the union ! On other occasions, every individual in that service, though firm in his allegiance and resolved to do his duty, evinced by his deportment how painful that duty might become. Scott gave both the precept and the example. Many officers, like himself, had frequent occasion to visit the city. Boats' crews were constantly passing and re- passing. It was agreed among the officers, and enjoined on the men, to give way to everybody, and not even to resent an indignity should one be offijred ; but to look on their fellow-citizens as their fellow-countrymen, whom all were anxious to reclaim from an unhappy delusion. These rules of forbearance were absolutely necessary, because any soldier or sailor, in a drunken rencontre, might have brought on all the evils of a bloody affi-ay. Just at the period of the utmost anxiety, when all hearts were anxious lest the morrow should bring forth civil war, a fire was seen from Fort Moultrie, at twilight, rising from Charleston, rapidly spreading, and threatening the city with destruction. General Scott happened to be the THE FIRE IN CHARLESTON. 247 first who perceived the conflagration, and with great promptness called for volunteers to hasten to the assist* ance of the inhabitants. All the officers and men were eager for the service, and, with the exception of a mere guard, all were dispatched in boats and without arms, to subdue the new and dreadful enemy. Each detachment was directed to report itself to some city officer, and to ask for employment. A detached officer preceded to explain the object of this sudden intrusion. Captain (now Major) Ringgold, of the arm}^, who commanded a de- tachment rushed up to the intendant, (mayor,) and begged to be put to work. A citizen standing by, at once claimed his assistance to save a sugar-refinery, then in imminent danger. " Do 3'ou hear that ?" said Captain Ringgold to his men : '^we loill go to the death for the sugm^P^ This was in allusion to the famous threat of Governor Hamil- ton, in respect to his importation of that article, before the boxes had arrived, that '' they would go to the death for the sugar." It may be added, that the detachment instantly repaired to the spot, and the refinery was saved. Nor was the good-humored quotation lost on the hundreds who heard it. The navy was not behind the army in this act of neigh- borly kindness. Both were early at the scene of distress. And all, after distinguishing themselves for zeal and energ}^, returned as sober and as orderly as they went, notwithstanding refreshments had been profusely handed round by the citizens. It is not extravagant to say, that this timely movement, so well conceived and so handsomely executed, overcame much of the excitement and prejudice existing against the United States, here represented by their soldiers and 248 FORT MOULTRIE VISITED BY THE CITIZENS. sailors. These men threw themselves, unexpected and miarmed, in the midst of a population strongly excited against them, and by saving a city from fire, powerfully contributed to save the Union from the greater horrors of civil war. The effect was immediate on the spot, and was soon spread to other parts of the state. It was one of those acts better adapted to sooth the asperities of feeling, than w^ould have been any degree of courage, or success, in the forcible maintenance of the law. Sullivan's Island, on which Fort Moultrie stands, was daily visited by respectable citizens, sometimes in large numbers, most of whom wore the palmetto cockade. All, without distinction of part)^, were received with that courtesy and kindness for which not only General Scott but our officers generally were distinguished. Some were detained to dine with the general, who, with the other officers, took pains to shov/ the works, and to give the true impression, that they w^ere intended for self- defence. " We have made ourselves impregnable," he would say, " not for offence, but rather to prevent an attack ; for otherwise there might be danger, not from your au- thorities, but from masses moved by some sudden ebul- lition of feeling, and we should all regard with infinite horror the necessity of a conflict with any portion of our own people." ' Similar explanations and assurances w^ere given, in the same spirit, to the higher pohtical authorities, in his acci- dental meeting with them in the city. It will readily be perceived, that the plan of General Scott's measures was not, in any fair sense of the term, directed against the people or the soil of South Carolina. CONGRESS PASSES THE " COMPROMISE ACT." 249 The Avorks at Fort Moultrie and Castle Pinckney were upon sites which had long been the property of the United States, and garrisoned by their troops. No new position was occupied. The general object was solely to be in readiness with a sufiicient force to act in concert with the civil authorities of the United States, that is, to be able, first, to defend his own position, and next, to compel all vessels from abroad to make the same entries at the Charleston custom-house as at every other port of entry. The point selected for this operation (Fort Moultrie) being distant and isolated, it seems that the possibility of a collision with citizens, taking into view all the means of prevention, both moral and physical, was almost entirely excluded. At length, Congress passed the celebrated " Compro- mise Act." The South Carolina Convention rescinded the ordinance of nullification. The troops and ships re- turned to their ordinary stations ; and every officer and man departed — rejoicing in his heart, that not a drop of blood had been spilt, where so much danger had occurred and such fearful results been apprehended. In the mean while, however, the state of Virginia had taken part in the issue made between South Carolina and the general government, in a way which requires some notice. At the close of January, 1S33, the legislature of Virginia passed a series of resolutions in relation to the position of South Carolina.^ One of these resolutions requested South Carolina to rescind the ordinance of nullification. Another requested Congress to modify the tariff, and a third resolved to 43 Niles, 396. 250 VIRGINIA SENDS A COMMISSIONER. appoint a commissioner wh6se duty it was to bear these resolutions to South Carohna, and use his efforts to in- duce that state to accede to mediation, and hsten to con- cihatory measures. The commissioner appointed for this purpose, was Benjamin Watkins Leigh, Esq., a gentleman of acknow- ledged abilities, of great urbanity, and every way quali- fied for the mission. It was performed with as much success as was possible. Mr. Leigh arrived at Charles- ton and made the requests of Virginia known. In a letter dated 6th of February, 1833, Mr. Hamilton, president of the convention, said that he would call the convention to- gether at an early day- He did call them. The conven- tion rescinded its ordinance, the troops, as above nar- rated, were withdrawn, and the scenes of civil commo- tion which once threatened bloodshed and disunion, were closed without either. Friends in opposing ranks met together rejoicmg, and no more was heard of the ]ate storm but the fainter and fainter murmurs of the receding waves of agitation. At this distance of time, the part performed by Scott may not seem of great importance. But he who thinks so should recollect, that history is obliged to trace the greatest events oftentimes to very small causes ; and that such a pa.rt as Scott's at Charleston, though having neither the crimson glare of battle, nor the extraordinary skill of some artful act of diplomacy, may nevertheless have been the hinge of a crisis, and therefore more important than many battles. It is the handling of a delicate subject which makes it difficult, far more than the settlement of a question of exact right or w^rong. Of the part which Scott bore in the pacification of the SCOTT S EXECUTION OF A DELICATE TRUST. 251 South, we shall here give the words of Mr. Leigh, who stood high in the confidence of all parties, whose evidence is unimpeachable, and who had ample opportu- nities of observing all that Avas done. . He says — " I was at Charleston when he (Scott) arrived and as- sumed tlie command, which he did without any parade or fuss. No one who had an opportunity of observing on the spot the excitement that existed, can have an ade- quate conception of the delicacy of the trust. General Scott had a large acquaintance with the people of Charles- ton ; he was their friend ; but his situation was such that many, the great majority of them, looked upon him as a public enemy. What his orders were, I cannot under- take to tell you,^ nor have 1 any means of knowing but from his conduct, which, I take it for granted, conformed Avith them. He thought, as I thought, that the first drop of blood shed in civil war, in civil war between the United States and one of the states, would prove an immedicable wound, which would end in a change of our institutions. He was resolved, if it was possible, to prevent a resort to arms ; and nothing could have been more judicious than his conduct. Far from being prone to take offence, he kept his temper under the strictest guard, and Avas most careful to avoid giving occasion for offence ; yet he held himself ready to act, if it should become necessary, and he let that be distinctly understood. He sought the soci- ety of the leading nullifiers, and Avas in their society as much as they Avould let him be, but he took care never to say a Avord to them on the subject of political differences; he treated them as a friend. From the beginning to the * A portion of these orders is given in a previous part of this chapter 252 SCOTT S LETTER TO SECRETARY CASS. end, his conduct was as conciliatory as it was firm and sincere, evincing that he knew his duty, and was resolved to perform it, and yet that his principal object and purpose was peace. He was perfectly successful, when the least imprudence might have resulted in a serious collision." We shall close this chapter of American history with the addition of two letters from the politico-military history of that period. They may serve to illustrate the views and peculiar duties of General Scott. Letter from Major-General Scott to the Honorable Leivis Cass, Secretary at War. [Extract.] *' Head Quarters, Eastern Department, / Savannah, December 15th, 1832. S " Sir— I have had the honor to address you once from this place since my return from Augusta. The letter bore date the 10th or 11th instant. In it I stated that I had not the time to retain a copy. " I now take the liberty to enclose a copy of a private letter which I addressed to , Esq., a leading member of the South Carolina legislature, and a nuUiiier. I do this, because letters from me to individuals of that party should be seen by the government, and because this letter contains the sentiments and topics which I always urge in conversation with nullifiers. '' It will be seen that I speak of the arrival of troops in the harbor of Charleston. I did this because I knew the movement of the troops was, or would be soon, known, EFFECT OF THE PRESIDENT S MESSAGE. 253 and because I wish to prevent the idea of offensive opera- tions, (invasion.) Such an idea might precipitate the state authorities into some act of open hostihty, which would not fail to be followed by a civil war, at least among her own citizens. " The President's annual message has had the happiest effect already on the temper of nullification in this state, (Georgia,) as far as we have heard, and cannot fail to pre- vent that doctrine from spreading in the South. What may be its effects on the original nullifiers in South Caro- lina is more doubtful. There is good reason, however, to hope, that this healing document may soon reduce them to a small minority, even in their own state, and this ap- prehension may induce the leaders to attempt something rash, to inflame the passions of their followers. " The friends of the Union will see, by the arrival of the troops in Charleston harbor, that they are not aban- doned by the executive. This will give vigor in another way to the resolutions they are about to take at Colum- bia, while they will be able to remind their opponents of the soundness of the prediction, that ' the tariff would be gradually but ultimately brought down to a just point.' This double operation is manifest on the public mind of this place. I shall proceed by the first safe conveyance, say in four or five days, to Charleston harbor, as I wish to be there to regulate the posting of the reinforcements, which may soon be expected from the North. My aid- de-camp (Lieutenant Mercer) will be left to follow with any letters which may arrive before tlie 24th instant." 254 scott's letter to a friend. Extracts from a letter from Major- General Scott to a dis^ tinguished leader and friend, a member of the S. Car- olina Legislature, then i?i session at Columbia. « Savannah, Dec. 14th, 1832. " My Dear Sir,— " You have an excellent memory to remind me, after so long an interval, of my promise to visit you w^hen next on a tour to the South, and I owe you an apology for not earlier acknowledging your kind letter. It was handed to me just as I was about to leave Charles- ton, and I have been since too constantly in motion (to Augusta, and back here) to allow me to write. " As to the 'speculations' at Columbia relative to ' the object of my visit to Charleston at this moment,' I can only say, that I am on that very tour, and about the very time, mentioned by me when I last had the pleasure of seeing you. On what evil days we have fallen, my good friend, when so common-place an event gives rise to con- jecture or speculation ! I can truly assure you, that no one has felt more wretched than your humble correspond- ent, since an unhappy controversy began to assume a se- rious aspect. I have always entertained a high admira- tion for the history and character of South Carolina, and accident or good fortune has thrown me into intimacy, and even friendship, with almost every leader of the two parties which now divide and agitate the state. Would to God they were again united, as during the late war, when her federalists vied with the republicans in the career of patriotism and glory, and when her legislature came pow- HIS FEARS OF DISUNION. 255 erfully to the aid of the Union. Well, the majority among you liave taken a stand, and those days of general harmony may never return. What an awful position for South Carolina, as well as for the other states ! " I cannot follow out the long, dark shades of the pic- ture that presents itself to my fears. I will hope, never- theless, for the best. But I turn my eyes back, and, good God ! what do I behold ? Inipatient South Carolina could not wait — she has taken a leap, and is already a foreign nation ; and the great names of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, and Green, no longer compatriot with yours, or those of Laurens, Moultrie, Pinckney, and Marion with mme " But the evil, supposing the separation to have been 'peaceable, would not stop there. When one member shall withdraw, the whole arch of the Union will tumble in. Out of tlie broken fragments new combinations will arise. We should probably have, instead of one, three confed- eracies — a northern, southern, and western reunion ; and transmontane Virginia, your native country, not belong- ing to the South, but torn off by the general West. I turn Vv'ith horror from the picture I have only sketched. I have said it is darli ; let but one drop of blood be spilt upon the canvass, and it becomes ' one red.' " ' Lands intersected by a narrow frith Abhor each other. Mountains intei-posed Make enemies of nations, which had else, Like kindred drops, been mingled into one.' " But you and my other South Carolina friends have taken your respective sides, and I must follow out mine. " You have probably heard of the arrival of two or three 17 256 PROBABLE MEASURES OF THE PRESIDENT. companies at Charleston, in the last six weeks, and you may hear that as many more have followed. There is nothing inconsistent with the President's message in these movements. The intention simply is, that the forts in the harbor shall not be wrested from the United States. I believe it is not apprehended that the state authorities contemplate any attack, at least in the present condition of things, on these posts ; but I know it has been feared that some unauthorized multitude, under sudden excite- ment, might attempt to seize them. The President, I presume, will stand on the defensive — thinking it better to discourage than to invite an attack — better to prevent than to repel one, in order to gain time for wisdom and moderation to exert themselves in the capitol at Wash- ington, and in the state-house at Columbia. From hu- mane considerations like these, the posts in question have been, and probably will be, slightly reinforced. I. state what I partly know, and what I partly conjecture, in order that the case which I see is provided for in one of yourbills,^ may not be supposed to have actually occurred. If I were possessed of an important secret of the govern- ment, my honor certainly would not allow me to disclose it; but there is in the foregoing neither secrecy nor deception. My ruling wish is, that neither party take a rash step, that might put all healing powers at defiance. It is, doubtless, merely intended to hold the posts for the present. A few companies are incapable of eifecting any further object. The engineer, also, is going on, steadily, but slowly, in ^ The bill referred to was, that South Carolina would consider the arri- val within her limits of United States troops, as the commencement of her separate existence as a state, and the signal of war. HISTORY AND ITS COMPANIONS. 257 erecting the new work on the site of Fort Johnson, (long since projected for the defence of the harbor,) the founda- tion of which is but just laid. When finished, some years hence, I trust it may long be regarded, both by South Carolina and the other states, as one of the bulwarks of our common coast. " There is nothincr in this letter intended to be confiden- a ticl, nor intended for the public press. When I com- menced it I only designed giving utterance to private sen- timents, unconnected with pubhc events ; but my heart being filled with grief on accoimt of the latter, my pen has run a little into that distress. Let us, however, hope for more cheering times. Yet, be this as it may, and whether our duties be several or common, I shall always have a place in my bosom for the private affections, and that I may ever stand in the old relation to 3^ou, is the sincere wish of your friend, Winfield Scott.' With these letters we close the narrative of one of the most critical periods of American history. It has not been written to add to, or take from, the merit, the errors, or the part, of any one of the actors in those scenes. History is not history when it is not just. It may be a picture of fancy made beautiful by the pencil of flattery, or deformed by the pen of scandal, but it cannot be his- tory, when truth is not the writer and justice the witness of its record. The veil of confidence yet rests upon many of Scott's acts and letters of this period. 4"W MURDER OF THE MAIL CARRIER. 259 CHAPTER XVII. 1835 TO 1837 Commencement of the Florida War. — Description of the SemimJes. — Character of Osceola. — Battle of Wythlacooche. — Massacre of Dade's Command. — General Scott ordered to command the Army of Florida. — Plan of the Campaign. — Its termination. — Meeting of the Troops at Tampa Bay. — Expeditions. — Sickness of the Army. — Retreats of the Indians. — Description of Florida. — The Hammock. — The Everglades. — Scott's Report. — The manner of his recall. — Demands a Court of Inquiry. — Meeting of the Court. — His speech. — Opinion of the Court. — Mr. Biddle's speech in Congress. — Scott invited to a Public Dinner in New York. — He declines. — His Letter. — Asks to command the Army in Florida, and is refused. On the 11th of August, 1835, the United States mail carrier who left Tampa, Florida, was murdered about six miles from that place. The mangled body of the carrier was thrown into a pond, and the mail carried off.^ The murderers, though not taken, were ascertained to be In- dians. At first, this was supposed to be only an isolated outrage. But it was soon discovered that the Seminole tribe of Indians, then resident in Florida, united with a few individuals of the Creek tribe, had become discon- tented, and determined on opposition to the whites ; that able chiefs were exciting them, and that murmurs of in- justice perpetrated by -the people of the United Stated ^ 49 Niles's Register, 51. 260 ORIGIN OF THE SEMINO LES. against them, and of an indignant resistance to it, were heard among the small but independent tribes of Florida. In about three months more, this resistance and muttered indignation burst forth, in depredations against property, in plantations ravaged, in dwellings burnt, and in murders committed; in fine, with the desolations and horrors of an Indian war.^ In return, they were told that they should be swept from the earth ; but, if they had the courage to die with arms in their hands, '' the white man would not deny them the privilege of sleeping out their death-sleep on the soil upon which he cannot endure their living presence." The Seminoles are said to have been chased into Flori- da from former habitations among the Creeks. They are said also to have contained a very large portion of the mixed races ; partly mulattoes, more of ihe half-Indian and half-Negro bloqd ; and, in fine, a heterogeneous collec- tion of various origin. How^ever this may be, the body of the tribe was an indigenous family, endowed by nature with courage, ferocity, hardihood, and the love of country. Hemmed in by the whites, among the almost unapproach- able fens, hammocks, woods, and creeks, of the peninsula of Florida, they resolved to defend their homes, and, if they could not live, die on the soil they loved. The unfair treatment which in many instances marked the conduct of the whites towards the Indians, and the mis- takes as to the terms and meaning of treaties, were, it is believed, in this, as in many other Indian wars, the true causes and foundation of the controversy. » 49 Niles's Register, 313. PARENTAGE AND CHARACTER OF OSCEOLA. 261 Osceola, or Powell, one of the head chiefs of the Seminoles, is represented as the principal instigator of the war, and one of the boldest warriors engaged in it. His father was a white man, and his mother a Creek In- dian ; but, among the Indians, the men take rank gen- erally from their mothers.^ Osceola was therefore known as a Creek. But, like Ke-o-kuck, he inherited no title or command. He was raised to distinction by superior talents, courage, and ambition. Before the war, he was proud, gloomy, and insolent ; but on one occasion, in a talk with the agent, (General Thompson,) he burst into a paroxysm of passion, declared the country was theirs, that they wanted no agent, and that he (General Thompson) had better be off. For this he was arrested, and confined. After this, he assumed penitence, appeared cheerful, signed the treaty,^ and was released, with many fair pro- mises. Subsequent events proved that this appearance was but the acting of a part. At first he performed friendly service to the whites, especially in the daring arrest of criminals who had taken refuge among the In- dians. By this conduct he gained the confidence of the agent. Suddenly Osceola threw off his disguise. He mur- dered Charley Mathla, a friendly chief, forced his fol- lowers to join his own standard, received his former ene- mies the Mic-o-sukees, as allies, and raised before the astonished gaze of the whites the firebrand and scalping- knife. Soon after, on the 28th of December, 1835, he was seen at the head of a band who murdered General * See 49th vol. Niles's Register, 395, for a character of Osceok * 49 Niles's Register, 395. 262 APPEARANCE OF THE SEMINOLE LEADER. Thompson, the Indian agent, and some other gentlemen, within range of the guns of Fort King.^ Meanwhile, a detachment of Florida volunteers having joined the regulars, the whole, under General Clinch,^ marched upon the Wythlacoochee, where the Indians were found embodied. General Clinch having crossed the river, was fiercely assailed, Dec. 31st, 1835, by Osceola and his numerous warriors. The attack was most gallantly repelled by Clinch and the regulars, about two hundred men,^ aided by a handful of Floridians who had crossed with them.'* In front, was the daring Osceola, who, after each discharge of his rifle, was seen wiping it with the utmost coolness, and his voice was heard rallying his flying bands. The arrangements and battle of Wythlacoochee, honor- able to Clinch and the troops engaged,^ first awoke gov- ernment to the fixed purpose of the Indians. Three days before this event, the same party of Indians, as it is believed, had met and defeated, with most terrible destruction, the small but gallant band of Major Dade. This command had set out from Fort Brooke, to reheve the post of Fort King, within sight of which, as we have narrated, the Indians had killed five men, and which was in continual danger. In five days Major Dade had marched about sixty-five miles. They were compelled each night to intrench themselves, and moved under continual dan- ^ General Thompson, the Indian agent, Lieutenant Constantine Smith, Erastus Brooks, and two others, were shot at Fort King, only 250 yards from the field-pieces. 49 Niles, 368. ^ Clinch's Rep. Idem, 366. ^ Clinch's Report. Four men were killed, and fifty-nine wounded. * 49 Niles, 395. ' The volunteers, who had not crossed, preferred staying on the safe side. See Clinch's Report. DADE S COMMAND ATTACKED AND MASSACRED. 263 ger of surprise. On the day of the attack they had moved four miles from their night position, when they received a heavy fire from an unseen enemy, and before the attack could be resisted, many of the officers and men were killed or wounded. Then the Indians, and negroes with them, swarmed up from the ground, and completed what was literally massacre. Of all this band, one hundred and twelve in number, but three escaped. These three escaped only by artifice.^ The annals of war record very many bloody scenes and terrible destructions, but hardly one where the destruc- tion was so total, the disaster so complete. It proved the extreme ferocity of the Seminoles, and the desperate energy with which they waged, what was apparent to all — their last contest with the whites. The battle of Wythlacoochee, and the destruction of Dade's command, were but parts of the tragedy v/hich; in the winter of 1835-6, was enacted in Florida. Close to St. Augustine itself, on all the outside plantations, on all the highways, and amidst all the white settlements, not immediately defended by soldiers, were seen the blazing fires of sudden conflagration, the mangled body of some surprised inhabitant, or his destroyed property scattered in the fields, or thrown into streams.^ The Indian of Florida ^ The officers who were killed, were Major Dade, who was killed at the first fire, Captain G. W. Gardiner, Lieutenant Bassinger,- Captain Frazier, Lieutenant Keayes, Lieutenant Mudge, Lieutenant Henderson, and Dr. Gatlin. Their conduct was brave, skilful, and patriotic. Their floss was feit not only in the army but in the country, and this event was a shock to the nation. At West Point a neut nionnment has been ere high in the confidence of the country and of the army ; and we should presume that, in other respects, his claims are superior to those of any other officer. The Secretary of War is well acquainted with the merits of Genera] Scott, and we should hope that he will be willing to as- sign him so important a command, in which all his heart and all his energies will be powerfully enlisted." The request was not granted. Scott took no further part in the Florida campaigns, which continued to exhaust the treasury, and employ tlie ingenuity of government and army for the six following years, when the war was hap- pily concluded by Brigadier-General Worth. ▲ REVOLT BREAKS OUT IN CANADA " 287 CHAPTER XVIII. 1837 TO 1839. Troubles on the Niagara Frontier. — Patriot Excitement. — Attack on the Carohne. — General Scott ordered to the Niagara. — Is accompanied by Governor Marcy. — Scott's measures. — He harangues the People. — Exciting Adventure with the Barcelona. — He maintains Peace. — He is complimented at Albaziy. — Toasts. In the year 1837, Canada, which had continued, in spite of the repubhcan influences of the United States, under the government of Great Britain, became the scene of great pohtical excitement, and of warm resistance to the measures of its administration. Towards the close of that year insurgent movements broke out among the French population of the lower province, and the spirit of revolt was spread among the disaffected of Upper Canada. The border population of all nations take great interest in what occurs beyond the boundary line, and are disposed either to invade or sympathize with their neigh- bors, according to the events by which they are excited. When, therefore, the flame of insurrection was kindled in Canada, it was not arrested by a mere line of jurisdiction. It reached and agitated the frontier inhabitants of the United States, along the long border from the hills of Vermont to the Huron of the northwest. On this frontier, the citizens enrolled themselves as Canada patriots or sympathizers, until, perhaps, one fourth of all the inhabi- 13 288 THE PATRIOTS OCCUPY NAVY ISLAND. tants capable of bearing arms were professed friends and abettors of the Canada movement. Itinerant refugees were seen everywhere organizing their friends, with a view to descents upon the Canadas. Thousands and thousands met in lodges all along the border, oaths of se- crecy were administered, principal leaders appointed, generals and staff-officers chosen, and, at least for Upper Canada, a provisional government formed. The Presi- dent of the United States issued his proclamation enjoin- ing all good citizens to observe the strictest neutrality towards the British provinces. It had but little effect. The arms in the hands of the citizens, and even those in the state arsenals within reach of the borders, were soon seized or purloined, thus affording equipments to the American Canada patriots. At length, a Mr. Van Rens- selaer,^ with some hundreds of followers, crossed from Schlosser, (a mile and a half above Niagara Falls,) and took possession of Navy Island, a small uninhabited spot within the British line, but nearer to our shore. At this time there could be little hope of going further, for the only outbreak in the opposite province had been crushed in a moment by the very people to whom it was proposed to give independence and freedom. At this time also, besides some regular troops, seventeen-twentieths of the provincial militia were firm in their loyalty, well organized, well armed, and commanded by regular officers. This idle invasion, though unimportant to the Canadas, was not without consequences in history. It was followed ' This Mr. Van Rensselaer was not of the family of the late distinguished General Stephen Van Rensseiaer, the patroon, and at one time member of Congress. BURNING OF THE CAROLINE. 289 by a very serious incident, which excited deep feehng in the United States, and was the subject of much diplo- matic correspondence. Van Rensselaer, we have said, was stationed with a scanty and ill-provided band of forces, at Navy Island. Schlosser, as above stated, was a point on the American shore just opposite. A small steamer called the Caro- line was engaged by Van Rensselaer to act as a ferry-boat between these two points. The very first night the Caro- line commenced her voyages between these two points, the British fitted out an expedition from the opposite point, Chippewa. Instead of directing their attack, as they might have done, against Navy Island, within their own territory, and which they would probably have captured, they chose to violate our territory, by boarding the un- armed steamer fastened to the wharf at Schlosser. She happened to be full of idle people, including boys uncon- nected with Van Rensselaer, who had been attracted to the frontier by the rumor of war, and who had simply begged a night's lodgings. One citizen was killed, and several others wounded. The boat was cut loose, set on fire, and sent over the cataract, as was reported, and long believed by many, with several wounded Americans on board. When this occurred, a flame of excitement rose up throughout the interior of the United States. The sentiment of patriotism and the feeling of revenge were frequently mingled together. Orderly citizens seized upon the arms nearest at hand, and flocked to the fron- tier. Their numbers increased, and the peace of this country, and perhaps of all other civilized nations, was threatened, by the act of outrage committed on the Caroline. That vessel was destroyed December 29th, 1837, 290 SCOTT AGAIN ON THE NIAGARA. • The news reached Washington January 4th. General Scott happened to be there. A cabinet council was called, and Scott was told that blood had been shed, and he must hasten to the frontier. Full powers were given him to call for militia, to put himself in communication with the United States district attornej^s, 'marshals, and collectors, in order through them to enforce the act of neutrality, the good faith pledged to Great Britain by treaty, and, in short, to defend our own territor}^, if necessary, against invasion, or to maintain peace throughout the borders. No regular troops were at hand. All had been withdrawn for the Florida war. He had ordered up, in passing New York, small parties of unattached army recruits, and at Albany invited the able and patriotic governor (Marcy) to accompany him to the Niagara. The presence of the governor was highly valuable during the few days that he could remain. Being on the spot, he was ready to supply any number of volunteers, on the requisition of Scott, as they might be needed ; for it was not known that the violation of our territory at Schlosser might not be fol- lowed up by other outrages of the same kind. All this was quite a new scene for Scott. In 1812 he had appeared on the same theatre as the leader of bat- talions and the victor of battles. Now, rhetoric and diplonaacy were to be his principal weapons, his country- men and friends the object of conquest, and a little cor- respondence with the British authorities beyond the line, as an episode to the whole. Had Scott not been a soldier, though he had been the famed Athenian orator or the American " Henry, the forest-born Demosthenes, Whose thunders shook the Philip of the seas," HIS EFFORTS TO PRESERVE PEACE. 291 his entreaties and harangues would have been wholly lost upon his hearers. But the memory of other days gave for him an influence which he would have sought in vain without it. The patriot-warrior of 1812-13-14 reappear- ing near the scene of his former glory, drew forth the ap- plause of hstening multitudes. During the winter of 1838 and that of 1838-9, he was busy in exercising his influence for peace, and in quieting our disturbed frontier. This was his employment for many months of the coldest season of the year. The pa- triot movements were chiefly confined to the season of frost, which, bridging with ice some of the waters separa- ting the two countries, greatly favored descents upon Up- per Canada. General Scott was ably seconded in watch- ing and counteracting those movements by other distin- guished officers. General Brady on Lake Erie and the Detroit frontier. General Worth (made General 1842) on the Niagara, Lake Ontario, and St. Lawrence frontier, and Generals Wool and Eustis on the northern side of New York and Vermont, were active in aiding General Scott in his arrangements, and pacifying the borders. The troops, both regulars and volunteers, proved to be steady supporters of law and order, and were held everywhere ready, as posses, at the call of the United States marshals and collectors. The other officers mentioned were the district commanders. Scott posted himself nowhere, but was by turns rapidly everywhere, and always in the midst of the greater diffi- culties. In these winter campaigns against the trespass- ers of the borders, he passed frequently along the frontier, sometimes on the Detroit and sometimes on the north line of Vermont. His journeyings were made by land, and 292 SCOTT ADDRESSES THE CITIZENS. principally in the night ; oitentimes with the cold from ten to twenty degrees below freezing point. Daylight he chiefly employed in organizing the means of counteraction by an extensive correspondence and the labors of direct pacification. He obtained, and pressed upon district at- torneys, marshals, and collectors, information of the de- signs and movements of the patriots, and tendered to those civil functionaries the aid of the troops. In performance of his duty as a peacemaker, he addressed, on a line of eight hundred miles, immense gatherings of citizens, prin- cipally organized sympathizers, who had their arms at hand. In these addresses he declaimed with fervor, and they were often received with the loud applause of the audi- ence. He handled every topic which could inspire shame in misdoers, or excite pride in the friends of the govern- ment and country. His speeches were made witli popu- lar illustrations and allusions, and addressed both to the knowledge and the sentiment of the people. He reminded them of the nature of a republic, which can have no foun- dation of permanency except in the general intelligence, virtue, respect, and obedience of its people ; that if, in the attempt to force on our unwilling neighbors inde- pendence and free institutions, w^e had first to spurn and trample under foot treaty stipulations and laws made by our own representatives, we should greatly hazard free institutions at home in the confidence and respect of our own people ; tliat no government can or ought to exist for ft moment after losing the power of executing its obliga- tions to foreign countries, and of enforcing its own laws at home ; that that power depended in a repubhc chiefly on the people themselves ; that we had a treaty with Eng TREATIES BINDING ON EACH CITIZEN. 293 land, binding us to the strictest observance of amity, or all the duties of good neighborhood with adjoining prov- inces, and also an act of Congress for enforcing those sol- emn obligations ; that the treaty and the laws were as bind- ing on the honor and the conscience of every American freeman, as if he had specially voted for each ; that this doctrine was of the very essence of a civilized republic, as the neglect of it could not fail to sink us into anarchy, barbarism, and universal contempt ; that an aggressive war, waged by a part of the community, without just cause and without preparation, as is common among barbarian tribes, necessarily drags the non-consenting many along with the madness of the few, involving all aUke in crime, disaster, and disgrace ; that a war, to be successful, must be very differently commenced ; and in these addresses he would often conclude : — " F#llow-citizens, — and I thank God, we have a common government as well as a common origin, — I stand before you without troops and without arms, save the blade by my side. I am, therefore, within your power. Some of you have known me in other scenes, and all of you know that I am ready to do what my country and what duty demands. I tell you, then, except it be over my body, you shall not pass this line — you shall not embark," To the inquiry everywhere heard, "But what say you of the burning of the Caroline, and the murder of citizens at our own shore ?" ^ In reply to these questions. General Scott always frank- ly admitted that these acts constituted a national outrage, and that they called for explanation and satisfaction ; but that this whole subject was in the hands of the President, the official orgEm of the country, specially chosen by the 294 EFFECTS OF SCOTT S ADDRESSES. people for national purposes ; that there was no doubt the President would make the proper demand, and failing to obtain satisfaction, would lay the whole matter before Congress — the representative of the public Avill, and next to the people, the tribunal before which the ultimate appeal must be made. These harangues were applauded, and were generally very successful. Masses of patriots broke off and return- ed to their respective homes, declaring, that if Scott had been accompanied by an army they would not have lis- tened, but persevered. The friends of order were also encouraged to come out in support of authority, and at length peace and quiet were restored. In the mean while, one of those incidents occurred Avhich make history dra- matic, and which illustrate how much depends on indi- vidual men and single events. Many days after the destruction of the '* Caroline," another steamer, the "Bar- celona," was cut out of the ice in Buffalo harbor, (January, 1838,) and taken down the Niagara river, to be offered, as was known, to the patriots, who were still on Navy Island.^ Scott wished to compel them to abandon their criminal enterprise. He also desired to have them, on returning within our jurisdiction, arrested by the marshal, who was always with him. For this purpose, he sent an agent to hire the Barcelona for the service of the United States, before the patriots could get the means to pay for her, or find sureties /to indemnify the owners in case of capture or destruction by the British. He succeeded in a-1 these objects. The Barcelona proceeded back to Buf- falo, where Scott had immediate use for her on Lake ^ 53 Niles's Register, 337. THE BARCELONA COMES UP THE RIVER. 295 Erie, yet navigable in all its length. The authorities on the Canada side were on the alert to destroy her. As the Barcelona slowly ascended against the current on our side of Grand Island, (belonging to the United States,) three armed British schooners, besides batteries on the land, were in positions, as the day before, to sink her as she came out from behind that island. On the 16th of January, Scott and Governor Marcy stood on the American shore opposite that point, watching events. The smoke of the approaching boat could be seen in the distance, and* the purpose of the British was per- fectly evident in all their movements. The batteries on our side were promptly put in position. The matches were lighted . All was ready to return the British fire . There was a crisis ! The day before this, when it was supposed the Navy Island people were coming up the same channel in other craft, and before it was known that the Barcelona had accepted his offered engagement, Scott wrote on his knee, and dispatched by an aid-de-camp, the following note. ^^To the Commanding Officer of the Armed British Vessels in the Niagara. " Head-quarters, Eastern Division U. S. Army, two miles below Black Rock, Januaiy 15th, 1838. " Sir— With his Excellency the Governor of New York, who has troops at hand,^ w^e are here to enforce the neu- * These men were, in strictness, not yet under Scott's command, simply 296 THE CANNON LOADED AND POINTED, trality of the United States, and to protect our own soil or waters from violation. The proper civil officers are also present to arrest, if practicable, the leaders of the expedition on foot against Upper Canada. "Under these circumstances, it gives me pain to per ceive the armed vessels, mentioned, anchored in our waters, with the probable intention to fire upon that expedition moving in the same waters. " Unless the expedition should first attack — in which case we shall interfere — we shall be obliged to consider a discharge of shot or shell from or inter our waters, from the armed schooners of her Majesty, as an act seriously compromiting the neutrality of the two nations. I hope, therefore, that no such unpleasant incident may occur. " I have the honor to remain, &c., &c. "WiNFiELD Scott." The same intimation was repeated and explained the next morning, January 1 6th, to a captain of the British arm.}^, who had occasion to wait upon Scott on other business, and who immediately returned. It was just then that the Barcelona moved up the current of the Niagara. The cannon on either shore were pointed, the matches lighted, and thousands stood in suspense. On the jutting pier of Black Rock, in view of all, stood the tall form of Scott, in full uniform, watching the approach- ing boat. On Scott's note and his personal assurances, alone depended the question of peace or war. Happily, these assurances had their just effect. The Barcelona from the want of time to muster them into the service of the United States — a ceremony of some hours. AND THEREFORE PEACE IS PRESERVED. 297 passed along. The British did not fire. The matches were extinguished ; the two nations, guided by wise counsels, resumed their usual way; and war's wild alarms were hushed into the whispers of peace. Small a place as this incident may occupy in history, it was a critical moment in the affairs of nations. Had one British gun been fired, and much more had the Barcelona been destroyed, no authority or influence would have re- strained our excited population. We should probably have had an unpremedited war, one of those calamities which nations have to endure for their sins, and which is without the consoling and self-supporting consciousness of a great moral right. It would have been war from an incident, and not a national controversy. War may be justified on moral grounds, when the thing in dispute is of small physical magnitude, but there must be a question of right at the bottom. Such was the case when Scott, on this same Niagara frontier, had, by glorious achievement, mingled his fame with the eternal voices of its cataract. Then, he was contending for those rights of man and of citizenship without which a nation could neither be independent, nor respect itself, nor be respected by the nations of the earth. Now, the dictate of right was peace, a peace which should leave the people of Great Britain and its colonies to settle their own do- mestic government in their own way, while our citizens were left undisturbed in their rights, and our shores un- touched by the hand of aggression.^ * It should be mentioned, that tlie Patriots had evacuated Navy Island on the 15th Inst., and had landed in their small craft eleven miles below, where Van Rensselaer and his associates were immediately arrested, as Scott kad said they should be, in his note written a few hours before the arrests. 298 THE SOLDIER AND THE SCHOLAR. Soon after this time, General Scott passed through Albany, when the legislature was in session, and received the attentions of a large number of public m^en and other citizens, without distinction of party. A public supper was given him, principally by members of the legislature, at which the lieutenant-governor presided, and Governor Marcy was a guest. All vied in expressions of respect for, and confidence in, the gallant officer whom they had assembled to welcome to the capital. Among the toasts given on this occasion, may be cited the following, as characteristic of the prevailing tone and spirit — ''WiNFiELD Scott — not less the scholar than the soldier, whose pen and sword have been wielded with equal skill in the defence of his country." '' The Soldier — who has ever made the law of the land his supreme rule of action, and who, while he has always fulfilled its utmost requirements, has never, in a single instance, transcended its limits." "Our Guest — the invincible champion of our rights, the triumphant vindicator of our laws." A similar entertainment was given on the following evening at another hotel, the Honorable Gulian C. Ver- planck presiding. The feelings and confidence of his fellow-citizens were thus, in various ways and in numerous quarters, mani- fested towards the man who was not merely a soldier, nor only a leader, but who was the servant of the laws, the faithful citizen, and the pacificator of troubled com- munities. POSSESSIONS OF THE CHEROKEES. 299 CHAPTER XIX. 1838. CheroKee Controversy. — Measures for Removal. — General Scott ordered to command the Troops. — His Arrangements. — General Order. — Ad- dress to the Indians. — Enrohnent for Removal. — Indian Encampment. — Scott's humane Care. — He is ordered again to the North. — Reflec- tions. — Dr. Channing's Eulogy. For more than ten years, extending from 1828 to 1838, a controversy was maintained, in various forms, between the state of Georgia and the Cherokee tribe of Indians, most of whom were residents of Georgia, and between the United States and each of those parties. The sub- ject of this controversy was the lands belonging to the Cherokee s in the state of Georgia. As the white settle- ments advanced, the Indians were gradually enclosed. They had become cultivators of the soil. They held good farms. They had a yet greater attraction, in the discovery of gold within their territory — that sliining ob- ject, which had added new energy to the enterprise of settling the Western World, when as yet the ocean was a trackless waste, and the land an unsubdued wild. It is not surprising that these attractions were enougli to allure the desires of the whites, and occasion efforts to drive the Indians from their lands. The only question was the justice of the means used to attain the end. 300 RELATIONS OF THE INDIANS. The civil relations of the Cherokees with the United States, and with Georgia, were not a little complicated ; so that, in fact, each party to the controversy maintained some shadow of right. In the opinion of Chief Justice Marshall, delivered in the case of S. A. Worcester versus the State of Georgia,^ the relations which the Indian tribes bear to the United States are fully stated. *' Their relation," says the chief justice, " is that of a nation claiming and receiving the protection of one more powerful ; not that of individuals abandoning their na- tional character and submitting, as subjects to the laws of a master." Speaking of the acts of Congress to regulate trade and intercourse with the Indians, he says, " All these acts, and especially that of 1802, which is still in force, mani- festly consider the several Indian nations as distinct politi- cal communities, having territorial boundaries within which their authority is exclusive, and having a right to all ihe lands within those boundaries, which is not only acknowledged but guarantied by the United States." The relation of the Indians to the United States was that of pupillage and guardianship, the guardian having acknowledged the separate existence, distinct character, and positive rights of the pupil. In pursuance of this relationship, the United States had made repeated treaties of alliance and friendship with the Cherokees, acknowledging their rights, and offering en- couragements for their civilization. One of these treaties contained the following stipula-» tions.^ M2 Nilcs's R<>gister, 41. " 35 j^Ugg^ 292. EXTRACTS FROM A TREATY. 301 " Art. 7. The United States solemnly guaranty to the Cherokee nation, all their lands not hereby ceded." '' A?t. 14. That the Cherokee nation may be led to a greater degree of civilization, and to become herdsmen and cultivators, instead of remaining in a state of hunting, the United States will, from time to time, furnish gratuitously the said nation with useful implements of husbandry, &c." Under this encouragement the Cherokees did become " herdsmen and cultivators ;" and they are yet by far the most educated and civilized of any aboriginal tribe. These were the rights which the Cherokees could claim of the United States, and the United States had guarantied to them. The position of Georgia, however, was very different. Georgia, by virtue of her municipal sovereignty as one of the States of the Union, claimed a right to extend her criminal jurisdiction over the Indians, and claimed also that the general government was bound to extinguish the Indian title to lands within her territory. Accordingly, in April, 1802, the United States entered into a compact with Georgia, that the general government would purchase the lands of the Indians, and remove them as soon as this could be peaceably accomplished. Georgia, then, did not acknowledge that any duties were due from her to the Cherokees, while she claimed from the United States the vacation of the Indian lands and claims. On the other hand, the Cherokees replied, that it was no matter what claims, real or imaginary, Georgia might have on the United States, she had none upon them ; that they had a right to their lands, and that the United States were bound by the faith of treaties to respect those rights. Tiie refusal of the Indians to sell their lands, and the impossibility of satisfying Georgia without extin- 302 THE CHEHOKEES MUST REMOVE. guishing the Indian title, prolonged the controversy- through many years, and finally resulted in an unsatis- factory treaty, and a forcible removal of the Indians. During this controversy, a plan was formed for the set- tlement of the Indians on lands beyond the Mississippi, where it was supposed they would be undisturbed by the contact or the competition of the whites. In pursuance of this plan, a treaty was at length concluded with a por tion of the Cherokee chiefs, and a partial ratification ob tained. It was claimed to be legal, although controverted and alleged to be fraudulent by a portion of the Cherokee nation. The United States, however, proceeded to en- force it, and the Indians were, at length, compelled to yield to what seemed an inevitable destiny. On the 10th of April, 1838, General Scott received orders to take the command of the troops dispatched to the Cherokee country, and to assume the general direc- tion of affairs in that quarter. Having concerted meas- ures with the war department for the removal of the Cherokees, and for the protection of the neighboring citi- zens, he entered upon his painful field of labor with that conscientiousness, and that high regard to duty, which forms a distinguished characteristic of his public as well as private acts. Indeed, to remove against their general will a large body of Indians, some of whom were wealthy, and most of whom were partially civilized and Christianized, and all tillers of their own lands under a guarantee that their rights should not be disturbed, was a painful and trying duty. That God might enable him so to perform this ser- vice that its hard requirements should be tempered with mercy, was now his frequent prayer. ARRANGEMENTS OF COLONEL LINDSAY. 303 According to the terms of the treaty of 1835, the Cher- okees occupying portions of Georgia, Alabama, North Carohna, and Tennessee, were obhged to emigrate, at this time, to lands allotted them by the United States, on the Arkansas River. Of this tribe there were yet left (some had previously emigrated) about fifteen thousand, cling- ing to their ancient homes and to the graves of their fa- thers. These it was the duty of General Scott to remove ; and his orders were to effect it peaceably if he could, but forcibly if he must. Several regiments of troops were placed at his command, and authority given him to call upon the governors of the neighboring States^ for all the forces which would be required. On the 10th of May he issued an address to the Cher- okee nation, having, two days before, reached the Cher- okee agency in Tennessee. There he found Colonel Lindsay, an old and valued friend, in command. The ju- dicious arrangements which had already been commenced by Linds'ay, received high praise from Scott. Posts had been established in important settlements of the Chero- kees, and the principal mountain-passes were well guard- ed. It was at this place he issued his address, which was circulated in handbills, and with it an address to the troops. From the last, which was a general order, we extract here enough, separated from military detail, to show the caution, care, discretion, and humanity, which Scott enjoined upon the troops, and the pains he took to prevent any untoward accident, or any acts of unnecessary severity or cruelty : — * 54 Niles's Register, 129. 20 304 THE TROOPS URGED TO BE GENTLE AND KIND. " Head Quarters, Eastern Division, i Cherokee Agency, May 17th, 1838. \ " Considering the number and temper of the mass to be removed, together with the extent and fastnesses of the country occupied, it will readily occur that simple indis- cretions, acts of harshness, and cruelt}^ on the part of our troops, may lead, step by step, to delays, to impatience, and exasperation, and, in the end, to a general war and car- nage ; a result, in the case of these particular Indians, ut- terly abhorrent to the generous sympathies of the whole American people. Every possible kindness, compatible with the necessity of removal, must, therefore, be shown by the troops ; and if, in the ranks, a despicable individ- ual should be found capable of inflicting a wanton injury or insult on any Cherokee man, woman, or child, it is hereby made the special duty of the nearest good officer or man instantly to interpose, and to seize and consign the guilty wretch to the severest penalty of the laws. The major-general is fully persuaded that this injunction will not be neglected by the brave men under his command, who cannot be otherwise than jealous of their own honor and that of their country. *' By early and persevering acts of kindness and hu- manity, it is impossible to doubt that the Indians may soon be induced to confide in the army, and, instead of fleeing to mountains and forests, flock to us for food and clothing. If, however, through false apprehensions,- individuals, or a party here and there, should seek to hide themselves, they must be pursued and invited to surrender, but not fired upon, unless they should make a stand to resist. Even in such cases, mild remedies ma^'^ sometimes better succeed than violence ; and it cannot be doubted, if we DIRECTIONS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE SICK. 305 get possession of the women and children first, or first cap- ture the men, that, in either case, the outstanding mem- bers of the same famihes will readily come in on the as- surance of forgiveness and kind treatment. " Every captured man, as well as all who surrender themselves, must be disarmed, with the assurance that their weapons will be carefully preserved and restored at, or beyond the Mississippi. In either case, the men will be guarded and escorted, except it may be where their women and children are safely secured as hostages ; but, in general, families in our possession will not be separated, unless it be to send men, as runners, to invite others to come in. " It may happen that Indians will be found too sick, in the opinion of the nearest surgeon, to be removed to one of the depots indicated above. In every such case, one or more of the family or the friends of the sick person will be left in attendance, with ample subsistence and remedies, and the remainder of the family removed by the troops. Infants, superannuated persons, lunatics, and women in helpless condition, will all, in the removal, re- quire peculiar attention, which the brave and humane will seek to adapt to the necessities of the several cases."^ This address, the reader observes, is characterized by humanity, kindness, and a careful regard to the well-being and safety of the Indians. The Address to the Cherokees was as follows — * Executive Documents, No. 453, 2d session, 25th Congress. 306 ADDRESS TO THE CHEROKEES. " MAJOR-GENERAL SCOTT, of the United States Army, sends to the Cherokee people remaining in North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama, this ADDRESS. " Cherokees — The President of the United States has sent me, with a powerful army, to cause you, in obedi- ence to the treaty of 1835, to join that part of your people who are already established in prosperity on the other side of the Mississippi. Unhappily, the two years which were allowed for the purpose, you have suifered to pass away without following, and without making any preparation to follow, and now, or by the time that this solemn address shall reach your distant settlements, the emigration must be commenced in haste, but, I hope, without disorder. I have no power, by granting a farther delay, to correct the error that you have committed. The full moon of May is already on the wane, and before another shall have passed away, every Cherokee man, woman, and child, in those states, must be in motion to join their brethren in the far West. '' My friends — This is no sudden determination On the part of the President, whom you and I must now obey. By the treaty, the emigration was to have been completed on or before the 23d of this month, and the President has constantly kept you warned, during the two years allowed, through all his officers and agents in this country, that the treaty would be enforced: '' I am come to carry out that determination. My troops already occupy many positions in the country that A WARRIOR TO WARRIORS. 307 you are to abandon, and thousands and thousands are ap- proaching from every quarter, to render resistance and escape ahke hopeless. All those troops, regular and militia, are your friends. Receive them and confide in them as such. Obey them when they tell you that you can remain no longer in this countiy. Soldiers are as kind-hearted as brave, and the desire of every one of us is to execute our painful duty in mercy. We are com- manded by the President to act towards you in that spirit, and such is also the wish of the whole people of America. " Chiefs, head men, and warriors — Will you then, by resistance, compel us to resort to arms ? God forbid ! Or will you, by flight, seek to hide yourselves in moun- tains and forests, and thus oblige us to hunt you down ^ Remember that, in pursuit, it may be impossible to avoid conflicts. The blood of the white man, or the blood of the red man, may be spilt, and if spilt, however acciden- tally, it may be impossible for the discreet and humane among you, or among us, to prevent a general war and carnage. Think of this, my Cherokee brethren ! I am an old warrior, and have been present at many a scene of slaughter ; but spare me, I beseech you, the horror of witnessing the destruction of the Cherokees. " Do not, I invite you, even wait for the close approach of the troops ; but make such preparations for emigration as you can, and hasten to this place, to Ross's Landing, or to Gunter's Landing, where you will all be received in kindness by officers selected for the purpose. You will find food for all, and clothing for the destitute, at either of those places, and thence at your ease, and in comfort, be transported to your new homes according to the terms of the treaty. 308 THE REMOVAL BEGINS IN GEORGIA. " This is the address of a warrior to warriors. May his entreaties be kindly received, and may the God of both prosper the Americans and Cherokees, and preserve them long in peace and friendship with each other. " WiNFiELD Scott.'* To show unity of sentiment and purpose, the printed order and address went together to soldiers and Indians. Several families immediately enrolled themselves for voluntary emigration ; and but for the rapid circulation, at this time, of a report that the Cherokee delegation, still at Washington, would succeed in obtaining a modification of the treaty, Scott's most anxious desire to ejBfect the removal voluntarily and at once, might have been realized. They believed that the power and influence of their dele- gation would be sufficient to accomplish that object, and therefore turned a deaf ear to the entreaties and advice of Scott, who was, in fact, their friend. He had deemed it humane, by the strength of numbers and measures, to make resistance hopeless. He had therefore spread his troops rapidly, and soon informed the superintendent of removal, a civil officer, that the Indians from Georgia would be sent in by the end of June, and from the other states by the end of July. The collection was commenced in Georgia, May 26, under the eye of Scott. The Indians were brought into the military posts, where they were amply provided for. Thence they were escorted to emigrating depots as rapidly as was consistent with the collection of their personal effects, their health, and comfort. By the middle of June the operations in Georgia had been so nearly completed, that orders were issued for the honorable discharge of the IT CONTINUES IN THE OTHER STATES. 309 troops of that state. In Scott's order,^ high praise was bestowed on Brigadier-General Charles Floyd and the troops under his command, who were all of Georgia, for the handsome and humane manner in which their duties were performed. Scott hoping that the Cherokees in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama, might be encouraged to enroll themselves voluntarily, by the kind treatment shown to their brethren in Georgia, now sent Indian runners, who tendered their services, to those distant settlements ; and in the mean time suspended further collections to tha 20th of June. On the morning of the 13th, those Indians were found by the troops as entirely unprepared as the Georgian Cherokees had been ; yet, at the end of ten days, all but a few stragglers in the mountains were brought in, with their personal property. The volunteers were discharged before the 15th of July, and as rapidly as arrangements could be made for their being mustered and paid, except a single company, retained a little longer for special service. More than a million of dollars was saved by the rapidity of these movements and discharges. With the exception of a few principal families, allowed to re- main at their comfortable homes until called for, and some stragglers in the mountains, the whole body of the Chero- kee nation had been collected for emigration before the middle of July, and without shedding one drop of blood. They were not without arms and fastnesses, nor without courage for the defence of their native homes. They were conquered by skilful movements, and yet more by generous kindness. All the volunteers, hke the regulars, » 54 Niles's Register, 324. 310 A DROUGHT DRIES UP THE RIVERS. liad caught the spirit of Scbtt's addresses and orders. It was a pleasant and edifying scene to see officers and men everywhere giving ready aid, in every difficulty and dis- tress, to the helplessness of age and infancy. Tears were doubtless shed, and not alone by the Indian race. Scott's business up to this date had been simply mili- tary. To bring in the Indians, and to turn them over with guards, if needed, to the civil agent for Cherokee emigration, was the only duty assigned him by the government. That agent had already put in motion some three thousand for their Western destination. But now, the Hiwassee, the Tennessee, and the Arkansas rivers had ceased to be navigable. A drought which had com- menced in June, and which lasted to October, had already become distressing. In the next ten days, drinking-water for men and horses near the land route of emigration was not to be found, except at intervals of ten, or more fre- quently, of thirty miles. Scott, from humanity, and at the instance of the Cherokees, took upon himself to stop the emigration until the return of the cool and healthy season. That determination was subsequently approved at Washington. All the principal Indians were first called to head- quarters. Scott spoke of the drought, stated his wish to suspend the movement to the West, the expense of de- lay, the extreme inconvenience to himself of remaining with them till autumn, the want also of the regular troops elsewhere, and the fear that their people might break and disperse, if not kept within the chain of posts and senti- nels. Every chief instantly agreed to sign a solemn pledge, not only for himself but for his family and friends; not only to prevent dispersion, but to send runners of their THE REMOVAL TEMPORARILY POSTPONED. 311 own, to bring in the stragglers and those concealed, who still remained out. This written pledge was kept in good faith. Scott immediate^ sent off three regiments of regulars to the Canada frontiers and Florida, where he knew they were much needed. The other two were retained more to aid and protect than to guard the Indians. The Cherokees were now distributed into three large camps ; the principal, twelve miles by four, on high and rolling ground, on the Hiwassee, well shaded and abound- ing in springs and flowing rivulets. All necessary supplies were abundant and good, including medicines ; vaccina- tion was introduced by the personal influence of Scott against the general prejudice ;^ dram-shops were put under the guard of troops, to prevent the sale of liquors ; and numerous Indian superiors were appointed to visit every family daily, and to report on their wants. All worked well. Scott established himself for long months at the agency, in the midst of the principal camp, charged w^ith innumerable labors and cares for the good of his pupils ; for such they were, both by the relation they sustained to the United States, and the watching and instruction he gave them. The delegation, with Ross the principal chief, returned from Washington in July, when Scott received authority from the war department to transfer, by negotiation, the further emigration from the civil agent to the Cherokees ^ The reader will recollect what desolation has been brought on several tribes of Indians in the West, by their refusal to be vaccinated* The service rendered to the Cherokee« in this single particular, was in- valuable. 14 312 THE LAST OF THE CHEROKEES DEPART. themselves. The proposition was submitted to the nation, and adopted with joy. The same delegates were appoint- ed to arrange the general terms with Scott. The cost of the movement, as in the previous arrangement, was to bt paid out of the five millions^ of dollars stipulated by the United States to be given in exchange with the ne\¥ country West, for the one inhabited by the Cherokees in the East. To Scott, the sum to be paid per capita, for the remo val, as proposed by the delegates, appeared much too high. The subject was referred back to the genera^ council of the Cherokees, the largest they had ever held, who approved the new terms proposed to Scott, Tlit- same authority appointed a purveyor of supplies on the route, and the delegates specially charged with that duty proceeded to enroll their people into convenient parties for the road, with a conductor, sub-conductor, and phy- sician, for each, to collect wagons, horses, and every thing necessary for the movement, as soon as the season and rain might permit. Here was a wonderful change. A few months before,, seven-tenths of the Cherokees threatened to die in defence of their ancient homes. Now the only contest among the chiefs and parties was — who shall first take the road to the far West. All were eager to lead or to follow. At length October came, with some slight showers of rain, and by the 16th of November the last detachment * The compensation allowed the Cherokees was not an insufficient ono. They were allowed the value of their improvements, their expenses, and a new country, which in natural advantages may be deemed superior to the other. SCOTT HASTENS TO THE NORTH. 313 was in motion. The sick and helpless only were left to proceed by steam on the rise of the rivers. Scott followed the line of emigration to Nashville, in order to help and cheer on the movement. He had in- tended to proceed farther ; but an express overtook him from Washington, with dispatches, saying that the Patriots were reorganized to the number of eighty thousand, and were getting ready to break into the Canadas at many points. He instantly departed in that direction. Stopping nowhere to accept the public honors tendered him, he amved at Cleveland and Detroit at critical moments. Thence he passed down the frontier into Vermont, and completed the work w^e have described in the preceding chapter. He re-established peace, law, and order all along the disturbed frontier of Canada. In all this he had moved with almost the swift flight of the birds, and his work was completed in the brief space of their summer excursions. In this short season had Scott performed the work of Cherokee emigration, ana returned to new and arduous labors in an opposite region and a very different climate. Such sudden changes, and such rude exposures, are the soldier's lot in pursuit of duty and in obedience to his country. In this brief story we have narrated the manner in which the Cherokees — fifteen thousand in number — were car- ried from the homes of their fathers and the graves of their dead. That they left them in sadness, and looked to the uncertain future with dread and dark foreboding, none can doubt. However adventurous, far- searching, or cu- rious may be the human mind when voluntarily pursuing its own objects, it cannot be forced from its ancient asso- ciations, without, like the uptorn tree, breaking its deepesf 314 THE PARTING FROM THE HOME OF CHILDHOOD. roots, snapping its tendrils^ and blighting its softest ver- dure. This is a shock, too, which is felt the most in the most secluded retreats of the famity. It touches the hearts which have grown in the shade, where few rays from the glaring light of the world have ever fallen. It would not be difficult to imagine some Indian woman, and perhaps an aged one, stopping alone by the rippling stream to hear the murmur of waters she should hear no more — to break a twig from trees whose shade she should enjoy no longer — to linger round the lonely mound, which was henceforth to be the only memorial of her race — to cast one last look on the summits of hills, to which, with the friends of her youth, she had often gazed in the glowing sunsets of summer. They fade now in the shades of even- ing, and she heaves the last sigh, drops her last tear, and hills, and woods, and murmuring streams, live for her only in the memory of the exile ! The remaining years of her life she spends in strange scenes, and looking intensely into the future, hopes, per- haps, for " Some safer world in depths of woods embraced, Some happier island in the watery waste, Where slaves once more their native land behold. No fiends torment, no Christians thirst for gold." Such scenes as these may be easily imagined, and it is scarcely possible they should not have occurred in any nation, savage or civihzed, on leaving their native land. The question, however, remains, whether, in the plans of Providence, and their merciful development, the policy of the United States towards the Cherokees has not really •been the true policy, and its effect for their ultimate good ? It is certain that they have received a rich and valuable THE COUNTRY AND PROGRESS OF THE INDIANS. 315 territory, where, on the waters of the Arkansas, tliey yet cultivate lands — where they have organized a civil govern- ment, and where they appear still to advance in numbers and prosperity. Should this continue to be their history, may they not hereafter become a State of aboriginal in- habitants, in a condition of civihzation and Christianity ? If this should happily be the case, the Cherokee State will be a monument enduring through after ages of that wild and singular race, who seemed the children of the forest, defying the scrutiny of philosophy, and shunning the gaze of civilized man. The lone mound will not be their only memorial, nor tradition their only story. They will live to enjoy the fruits of legal liberty, to extend the dominion of the arts, to rest in the shade of peace ; and, no longer hunters and warriors, adorn the realms of sci- ence, religion, and philosophy. But whatever may be thought of the act or the result of remioving the Indians, no one can doubt that the part Scott had in that business was performed with a skill, a humanit}^, and a forbearance worthy of much admiration. In the Natiojial Intelligencer of that time there ap- peared an article from a responsible writer, describing the character of Scott*s acts, narrated in this and the previous chapter.^ From that we take the following extract, as just as it is historically true : — " The manner in which this gallant officer has acquitted himself within the last year upon our Canada frontier, and lately among the Cherokees, has excited the universal admiration and gratitude of the whole nation. Owing to his great popularity in the North, his thorough knowledge National Intelligencer, September 27th, 1838. 316 AN ACCOUNT OF RECENT EVENTS. of the laws of his own country, as well as those which govern nations, united to his discretion, his great tact and experience, he has saved the country from a ruinous war with Great Britain.- And by his master^ skill and energy among the Cherokees, united to his noble generosity and humanity, he has not onty effected w^hat everybody sup- posed could not be done without the most heart-rending scenes of butchery and bloodshed, but he has effected it by obtaining the esteem and confidence of the poor Cher- okees themselves. They look upon him as a benefactor and friend, and one who has saved them from entire de- struction. " All the Cherokees were collected for emigration with- out bloodshed or violence, and all would have been on their way to the West before the middle of July, had not humanity induced Gen. Scott to stop the movement until the 1st of September. Three thousand had been sent off in the first half of June by the superintendent, before the general took upon himself the responsibility of stopping the emigration, from feelings which must do everlasting liDnor to his heart. " An approval of his course had been sent on by the War Department before his report, giving information that he had stopped the emigration, had reached the seat of government. " In the early part of January last, the President asked Congress for enlarged powers, to enable him to maintain our neutral obligations to England ; that is, to tranquillize the Canadian frontiers. " Before the bill passed Congress, Gen. Scott had fin- ished the work, and effectccl all its objects. These, too, he effected by flying from one end of the frontier to the other THE GLORY OF A PACIFICATOR. 317 m the dead of winter, and during the severest and coldest period of it. " He returns to Washington, and is immediately or- dered to the Cherokee nation, to take charge of the very- difficult and hazardous task to his own fame of removing those savages from their native land. Some of his best friends regretted, most sincerely, that he had been ordered on this service ; and, knowing the disposition of the world to cavil and complain without cause, had great apprehen- sions that he would lose a portion of the popularity he had acquired by his distinguished success onthe Canadian fron- tier. But, behold the manner in which this last work has been performed ! There is so much of noble generosity of character about Scott, independent of iiis skill and bravery as a soldier, that his life has really been one of romantic beauty and interest." The truth of this picture may be judged by the facts of this history. But whatever opinion may be formed on that point, there have been men of the most eminent in- telligence, themselves disinterested and capable of judg- ing, who have formed the same estimate of the character and acts of Scott. We subjoin the following testimony of the Rev. Doctor. Channing, in a work pubhshed in Boston : " To this distinguished man belongs the rare honor of uniting with military energy and daring, the spirit of a philanthropist. His exploits in the field, which placed him ni the first rank of our soldiers, have been obscured by the purer and more lasting gloiy of a pacificator, and of a friend of mankind. In the whole history of the in- tercourse of civilized with barbarous or half-civilized com- munities, we doubt whether a brighter page can be found 318 TRUTH MORE SUCCESSFUL THAN POLICY. than that which records his agency in the removal of the Cherokees. As far as the wrongs done to this race can be atoned for, General Scott has made the expiation. " In his recent mission to the disturbed borders of our country, he has succeeded, not so much by pohcy as by the nobleness and generosity of his character, by moral influences, by the earnest conviction with which he has enforced on all with whom he has had to do, the obliga- tions of patriotism, justice, humanit}^, and religion. It would not be easy to find among us a man who has won a purer fame ; and I am happy to offer this tribute, be- cause I would do something, no matter how little, to hasten the time, when the spirit of Christian humanity shall be accounted an essential attribute and the brightest ornament of a public man." 319 CHAPTER XX. 1839. Scott again on the Northern Frontier. — Maine Boundary Question. — Its Origin. — Scott's Reception by Governor Everett. — Proceedings of the State of Maine. — Scott's Arrival and Reception at Augusta. — Remarks in Congress on the anticipation of War. — Mr. Van Buren's Message. — The " Memorandum." — Effect of the " Memorandum" in Maine. — Governor Fairfield's Message. — Resolutions of the Legislature. — Former Friendship of Scott and Harvey. — Interesting Anecdote. — Correspond- ence of Scott and Harvey. — Scott's " Memorandum." — Termination of the Difficulties. — Treaty made by Daniel Webster. From the land of the Cherokees and the scene of their exile, General Scott hastened back to that northern frontier, which had so nearly become the theatre of war. He again visited and tranquillized the Canadian borders, from Detroit along nearly the whole line to Northern Vermont. Here he learned that hostile movements were on foot on both sides of what was then known as the Disputed Territory. This was a territory on the bor- ders of the State of Maine, the bomidaries of which the United States and Great Britain had not been able exactly to ascertain, so as to determine satisfactorily the line be- tween the two nations. The territory between the two lines claimed by each party respectively as the true line, w^s the territory known as the "disputed" district. On one side of this district lay New Brunswick, a British province, and on the other the State of Maine. The governors and authorities of 21 320 MILITARY POSTS ESTABLISHED. each of these States were jealous of their respective rights, and felt impelled to aid the settlement of their own citi- zens, and resist what tliey called the encroachments of the other side. Trespassers on both sides continued in some form to occupy some parts of the country, especially for the purpose of cutting timber. Both the British and the Americans then estabhshed military posts, and in fine, by a succession of claims and counter claims, aggressions and defences from either side, naturally and necessarily arising out of an uncertain boundary, and an unsettled territory, to which there was an undetermined ownership, there came complicated border difficulties, and extreme danger of hostile collision. Hearing of these difficulties and of this danger, and fearing that letters to him might be misdirected in conse- quence of the rapidity of his movements, Scott hastened immediately to Washington. He presented himself at the War Department a day and a half in advance of the mail from the Canada line. The condition of affairs, on his arrival, was perilous to the peace, not merely of this country or of Great Brit- ain, but of the civilized world ; for it can hardly be sup- posed that the two greatest commercial nations of the world could come in conflict on every sea, and in almost every port of the globe, and yet not involve other nations, or that war would cease with the cessation of the imme- diate cause. The passion for war is contagious. The bystanders in the play of battles feel an instinctive im- pulse to share in the action. Their reason and their con- science can hardly restrain them from feeling, and even believing, that their interest, their honor, or their fame requires that they also should enter the arena of a bloody A BILL PASSED IN HASTE. 321 ambition, pursuing the rewards of conquest or the glory of victories. Hence it is that a war between leadin(>- na- tions, especially between the new and old systems of gov- ernment, would, reasoning from experience and probabili- ties, result in one of those general and long-continued seasons of bloodshed, revolutions, and conquests, which have so often impoverished the substance, and corrupted the morals of nations. When Scott arrived at Washington, such a crisis seem- ed to be tangibly and visibly present. The President of the United States, Mr. Van Buren, just then announced to Congress, by special message, that " the peace of the two nations is daily and imminently endangered." The President also said, that in a certain event, he should feel himself bound to call out the militia to repel invasion, and he invited from Congress such action as it deemed expe- dient. So extraordinary was the danger, that Congress adopted extraordinary measures. In five days, an act was passed authorizing the President, if he deemed best, to call out the militia for six months, to accept, if necessary, the services of fifty thousand volunteers ; and appropria- ting ten millions of dollars for these objects. Scott having arrived at Washington, had interview's with the President, with the Secretaries of State and War, and with the committees in Congress on foreign and military affairs. He assisted in drawling and urging the bills to put at the disposition of the Executive fifty thousand volun- teers, and ten millions of dollars to meet exigencies.^ This ^ This act bore all the impress of an expectation of an instant war. It was taken up on the 26th of February, 1839, signed and approved March 3d, 1839. It passed the Senate by a unanimous vote, notwithstanding the great power it placed in the hands of the President. 322 scott's meeting with governor everett. being done, he immediately departed, and reached Au- gusta, the seat of government in Maine, in about eight days after his arrival at Washington. It turned out that had he been three days later, he would have found a war made to his hands. Passing through Boston, and having official business with Governor Everett, of Massachusetts, he repaired to the State-house, where that accomplished officer and scholar addressed him in substance as follows : — " General : — *' I take great pleasure in introducing you to the mem- bers of the Executive Council of Massachusetts ; I need not say that you are already known to them by reputation. They are familiar with your fame as it is recorded in some of the arduous and honorable fields of the country's strug- gles. We rejoice in meeting you on this occasion, charged as you are with a most momentous mission by the Presi- dent of the United States. We are sure 3^ou are intrusted with a duty most grateful to your feelings — that of avert- ing an appeal to arms. We place unlimited reliance on your spirit, energ}^ and discretion. Should you unhappily fail in j^our efforts, under the instructions of the President, to restore harmony, we know that ^'■ou are equally pre- pared for a still more responsible duty. Should that event unhappily occur, I beg you to depend on the ffi'm support of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts." To this address, the general replied in a manner suita ble to the place and the subject ; and concluded with as- suring the governor and council that the executive of the United States had full reliance on the patriotism and pub- lic spirit of Massachusetts, to meet any emergency which might arise. RESPONSIBILITY OF MILITARY OFFICERS. 323 Scott had been called to the Mame border to avert a threatened war. This crisis had been brought about by a long series of acts, disagreements, and events, connected with the Maine boundary. How this difficulty arose, and what discussions and events grew out of it, may be learned by a perusal of the American State Papers, especially in the History of the American Diplomacy. In searching, however, for the materials to ascertain and describe the part Scott performed in this critical affair, and one with which it was certain and admitted he had much to do, but little will be found in the official documents of the gov- ernment. The President's message and accompanying reports, in December, 1S39, omitted any account of his connection with the preservation of peace, and the settle- ment of the pending and instant threatenings of war ; per- haps because it was thought that the transactions of a military commander were a matter of course, and not to be deemed part of the diplomatic arrangements by which such questions have finally to be determined. This, how- ever, is a mistake. The questions of peace or war have much oftener depended on the conduct of military officers on the frontiers, than they have on any negotiations.^ In the history already given, in a previous chapter, of Scott's conduct on the Canada frontier, and his efforts for peace, it is most evident, that had either the British or the Amer- ican military commanders preferred war, and been uncon- * Suppose a frontier 'officer were, on some slight or imaginary cause, to make a dash into the territory of a neighboring nation. He would be re- sisted ; blood would be shed. The border population would be excited, and it would be almost impossible for any negotiation to remedy the evil. This was partially the fact in the case of the " Caroline ;" and it was only by the greatest efforts that peace was then preserved. 324 PEACE DEPENDING UPON THE COMMANDERS. scientious as to the means, \Y,ar must have mevitably hap- pened.-^ Blood would have been shed, the patriots v/ould have moved in masses, and the people and governments would have followed them. The efforts of the military commander were here far more potent than any negotia- tions. The War Secretary's report should, at least, have no- ticed these events, tending more than any other events of the year to show that military men had something beyond and above the mere qualities of a soldier; and that to these superior capacities of mind the war department had been indebted for some of the best acts for the peaceful as wxll as martial glory of the country.^ Early in the winter preceding the period of which we nov/ speak, the State of Maine had sent a land-agent, ^ It was somewhere stated that Sir Allen McNab, then commanding on the Canada shore, said, after the adventure of the Barcelona, that the Brit- ish officer had mistaken his orders in not firing on the Barcelona. But sup- pose he had fired, the American cannon would have answered ; the war would have been commenced, and the people would liave continued it. Canada would have been invaded, and no one can tell what might have been the result. * In the General Regulations for the Army, drawn up by Scott in 1825, is this paragraph, which proves his own sense of justice in this respect: — " As reports and orders, relative to battles and other military operations, constitute, in the case of subordinates, the foundations of military fame, and that fame the principal reward of merit, too much care cannot be obsei-ved by," &c. Sec, before offering names " to the notice of government, and tlie admiration of the country." He then gives rules for collecting tlie principal facts, in order that reports, b7 with the one-half of it achieved the memorable victory of Buena Vista. General Scott assigned twelve thousand men to the expedition against Vera Cmz, and had Santa Anna con- centrated his forces at that point, the disparity of numbers would have been much greater than at Buena Vista. These remarks are not made for the purpose of comparing the skill, or the conduct, or the claims to public gratitude of the two distinguished generals who have so well fulfilled every trust reposed in them by their country ; but simply to show that in the disposition of the forces made by Gen. Scott, he did not take a larger portion for his own command than the interests of the service imperatively demanded. The troops which were recalled from the upper Rio Grande halted for a few days at the mouth of the river, and were then taken on board transports, and joined others who had made their rendezvous at the island of Lobos, about 125 miles west and north of the city of Vera Cruz. The troops being thus collected, the whole armament proceeded to Antonia Lizardo. On the morning of the 7th of March, General Scott, in a steamer, with Commodore Connor, reconnoitred the city, for the purpose of selecting the best landing-place for the army. The spot selected was the shore west of the island of Sacrificios. The anchorage was too narrow for a large number of vessels, and on the morning of the 9th of March the troops were removed from the transports to the ships of war. The fleet then set sail — General Scott in the steamship Massachusetts, leading the van. As he passed through the squadron, his tall form, conspicuous on the deck, attracted the eyes of soldier and of sailor ; a cheer burst spontaneously forth, and from vessel to vessel 24 ■8% \w<^ CASTLE — OF — :53 27 M^S^ 52 08 0^.^ "^ 25 23 .^iCIC' and CASTLE YIEE A LANDING OF THE TROOPS. 369 was echoed, and answered through the hne. The voices of veterans, and of new recruits — of those who had been victorious at Monterej^, and of those who hoped for vic- tories in the future — were mingled in loud acclamation for him, whose character inspired confidence, and whose actions were already embodied in the glorious history of their country ! Near Sacrificios the landing commenced. It must be observed at this point, that every man expected to be met at the landing ; for such, in military judgment, should have been the course of the enemy, and such would have been the case had the landing been made at the point where the enemy expected it, and where his forces were collected. Preparations were therefore made for any possible contingenc}^ Two steamers and five gunboats, arranged in line, covered the landing. Five thousand five hundred troops embarked in sixty-seven surf-boats. The signal-gun was fired. The seamen bent to their oars, and in a magnificent semicircle the boats swept rapidly towards the beach. Every man is anxious to be first. They plunge into the water before they reach the shore ! they rush through the sand-hills ! and with loud shouts they press forward ! They wave the flag of their country in the land of the Aztecs ! Where are their comrades ? They also soon embark — they hurry through the water — they land in safety — they rejoin their companions — they return shout for shout, to friends in the vessels and friends on shore. Safely, but hurriedly they then pass through this exciting crisis. In the meanwhile, the sun shines down in the brilliance of his light, the waters are but just ruffled by a breeze, while the deep waves are calm and the sky serene. Full 370 LANDING OF THE TROOPS. in view lies the city of Vera Cruz, and near is the re- nowned castle of San Juan d'Ulloa ! The harbor is crowded with foreign vessels, and decks and rigging are filled with wondering spectators ! Never, says one, shall I forget the excitement of that scene ! The first division of troops had landed a little before sunset, the second and third followed in succession, and before ten o'clock the whole army (numbering twelve thousand men) was landed, without the slightest accident and without the loss of a single life ! Thus, at the distance of more than three hundred years, was renewed the landing and march of Cortez ! Both were brilliant and remarkable in history and conduct. The Spanish hero came to encounter ana subdue on un- known shores, the Aztectic-American civilization. The Anglo-American came to meet and prevail against the Spanish-Aztec combination. Both came with inferior ;iumbers, to illustrate the higher order and vastly superior energies of moral power. Both came agents controlled by an invisible spirit, in carrying forward the drama of Divine Providence on earth. In vain do we speculate as to the end ; it will be revealed only when the last curtain is drawn from the deep, mysterious Future. The landing at Vera Cruz, as a military operation, de- serves a credit which is seldom awarded to bloodless achievements. Tt is common to measure military opera- tions by the current of blood which has flowed. But why ? Is he not the best general who accomplishes the greatest results with the least loss ? Or must we adopt the savage theory, that the greatest inhumanity is the greatest heroism ? Mere animal bravery is a common quality Why, then, should the exhibition of so common LANDING OF THE TROOPS. 37l a quality, in an open battle, give distinction, when it is skill only that is valuable, and science only that is uncom- mon ? This skill and science were exhibited in a most singular and felicitous manner, in the pre-arrangements, combinations, and success, which attended the landing of the American army under the walls of Vera Cruz. Of this landing, as compared with a similar o*je by the French at Algiers, the New Orleans Bulletin of March 27th makes the following correct and interesting remarks : " The landing of the American army at Vera Cruz has been accomplished in a manner that reflects the highest credit on all concerned ; and the regularity, precision, and promptness with which it was effected, has probably not been surpassed, if it has been equalled, in modern war- fare. " The removal of a large body of troops from numer- ous transports into boats in an open sea — their subsequent disembarkation on the sea-beach, on an enemy's coast, through a surf, with all their arms and accoutrements, without a single error or accident, requires great exertion, skill, and sound judgment. " The French expedition against Algiers, in 1830, was said to be the most complete armament, in every respect, that ever left Europe ; it had been prepared with labor, attention, and experience, and nothing had been omitted to ensure success, and particularly in the means and fa- cilities for landing the troops. This disembarkation took place in a wide bay, which was more favorable than an open beach directly on the ocean, and (as in the present instance) without any resistance on the part of the enemy — ^yet, only nine thousand men were landed the first day, and from thirty to forty lives were lost by accidents, or 372 SIEGE OF VERA CRUZ. upsetting of boats ; whereas, on the present occasion, twelve thousand men were landed in one day, without, so far as we have heard, the slightest accident, or the loss of a single life." No troops of the enemy made direct opposition to the American army on reaching the beach, but the guns of the castle and city kept up a constant firing with round- shot and thirteen-inch shells. The several corps imme- diately occupied the lines of investment to which they had been respectively assigned by General Scott's orders.^ These orders pointed out the most minute particulars, and were based on prior iriformation, obtained by the engi- neer and topographical departments, and carefully ana- l3^zed and thoroughly studied, by the commander-in-chief. This information was so accurate, and so well understood by the commander, the engineers, and the chief of the staff, that they made no mistakes. They found all as they anticipated ; their arrangements resulted as they intended, and the regiments and companies took their re- spective places as quietly and orderly as if they were parading on the green banks of the Potomac ! Parties of the enemy appeared, and skirmishes took place, but nothing seriously interrupted the progress of the invest- ment. On the 12th instant, the entire army had com- pletely occupied its positions.^ All this was not done without labor, fatigue, and expo- sure of the severest kind. The carts, horses, and mules, except a very few,^ had not yet arrived. Innumerable ^ General Orders, No. 47. ' General Scott's Official Report, dated 12th of March, 1847. * There had then arrived but fifteen carts and one hundred draught- horses. SIEGE OF VERA CRUZ. 373 hills of loose sand, and almost impassable thickets of chapporal, covered the ground of operations. Through these, by their ov^^n hands, and on their backs, soldiers, both regular and volunteer, dragged their provisions, their equipments, and munitions of war, under the rays of a sun already hot in a tropical climate. The sands of this pe- culiar region are so light, that during the existence of a " norther," (a so-called wind of the Gulf,) if a man should lie down for an hour or two, he would inevitably be buried in the floating drifts ! He must therefore, at this season, seek shelter in chapporals. In such circum- stances — under the distant fire of the enemy's fortresses, and in the midst of sharp skirmishes — the investment was completed. The lines of siege were five miles in length, and on that whole distance provisions must be carried and communications kept up with depots, and with ships at sea. In this, the officers and seamen of the navy co- operated with those of the army, in the most gallant and skilful manner. During this part of the siege, a " norther" prevailed, which rendered it impossible to land heavy ordnance. On ihe 17th, a pause occurred in the storm, and ten mor- tars, four twenty-four-pound guns, and some howitzers were landed. On- the night of the 18th, the trenches were opened, and, the engineers with the sappers and miners leading the way, the army gradually closed in nearer the*city. On the 22d of March — seven of the ten-inch mortars being in battery, and other works in progress— General Scott summoned the Governor of Vera Cruz to surrender the city. The governor, who was also governor of the castle, chose to consider the summons to surrender that, 374 SIEGE OF VERA CRUZ. as well as the city, and rejected the proposition. On the return of the flag, the mortar battery, at the distance of eight hundred yards from the city, opened its fire on the city, and continued to fire during the day and night. On the 24th, the batteries were reinforced with twenty- four pounders and paixhan guns. On the 25th, all the batteries were in " awful activity." Terrible was the scene ! The darkness of night was illuminated with bla- zing shells circling through the air. The roar of artillery and the hea-\^ fall of descending shot were heard through the streets of the besieged city. The roofs of buildings w^ere on fire. The domes of churches reverberated with fearful explosions. The sea was reddened with the broadsides of ships. The castle of San Juan returned, from its heavy batteries, the fire, the light, the smoke, the noise of battle. Such was the sublime and awfull}'^ ter- rible scene, as beheld from the trenches of the army, from the 22d to the 25th of March, when the accumulated sci- ence of ages, applied to the military art, had, on the plains of Vera Cruz, aggregated and displayed the fulness of its destructive power. On the evening of the 25th instant, the consuls of Eu- ropean powers residing in Vera Cruz, made application, by memorial, to General Scott for a truce, to enable them and the women and children of the city to retire. To this General Scott replied, — that a truce could only be granted on application of General Morales, the governor, with a view to surrender ;^ that safeguards had already been sent to the foreign consuls, of which they had re- fused to avail themselves ; that the blockade had been * Scott's Official Report of March 25, 1847. SIEGE OP VERA CRUZ. 375 left open to consuls and neutrals to the 22d proximo ; and that the case of women and children, with their hardships and distresses, had been fully considered before one gun was fired. The memorial represented, that the batteries had al- ready a terrible effect on the city — and by this, and other evidence, it was now clear that a crisis had arrived. The city must either be surrendered, or it must be consigned to inevitable and most melancholy destruction. Accordingly, early on the morning of the 26th of March, General Landero, on whom the command had been devolved by General Morales, made overtures of surrender. Arrangements had been made by Scott for carrying the city by assault on that very day. The prop- osition of the Mexican general made this unnecessary, and Generals Worth and Pillow, with Colonel Totten of the engineer corps, were appointed commissioners on the part of the American army, to treat with others appointed by the Governor of Vera Cruz. Late on the night of the 27th the articles of capitulation were signed and ex- changed. On the 29th of March, the official dispatch of General Scott announced that the flag of the United States floated over the walls of Vera Cruz and the castle of San Juan d'Ulloa. The regular siege of the city had continued from the day oiinvestment, the 12th of March, to the day the articles of capitulation were signed, the 27th, making a period oi fifteen days, in which active, continuous, and vigorous operations were carried on. During this time, our army had thrown 3,000 ten-inch shells, 200 howitzei shells, 1,000 paixhan shot, and 2,500 round-shot, weigh- ing on the whole about half a million (f pounds ! Most 376 SIEGE OF VERA CRUZ. effective and most terrible was the disaster and destruc- tion they caused within the walls of the city, whose ruins and whose mourning attested both the energy and the sadness of war. By some, it was thought strange that the Governor of Vera Cruz should have surrendered so soon ; but, on a full exhibition of the facts of the siege, surprise gives place to admiration at the progress, power, and develop- ment of military science. The thirty years which had elapsed since the fall of Napoleon, had not been idly passed by military men. They had acquired and sys- tematized new arts and new methods in the art of war. Nor were American officers inattentive to this progress. They had shared in it all, and when the siege of Vera Cruz was undertaken, this new power and method were fully displayed. The city was environed with cords of strength, in which all its defences must be folded and crushed. The result was inevitable. The officers of Vera Cruz saw this, and although the castle of San Juan might have held out a few days longer, for what purpose* would it have been ? There is no rule of military science which requires fighting when fighting is useless. There is no law of humanity which would not be violated by the wanton exposure of towns and inhabitants when de- fence was impossible. The surrender was, therefore, alike just to victors and defenders, both of whom had ar- rived at an inevitable end, — the result of progress in high civilization, and of the highest military skill and accom plishments. By the terms of capitulation, all the arms and muni- tions of war were given up to the United States ; five thousand prisoners surrendered on parole ; near five hun- SIEGE OF VERA CRUZ. 377 dred pieces of fine artillery were taken ; the best port of Mexico captured and possessed ; and the famed castle of San Juan, said to be impregnable, and which had been refitted and equipped in the best possible manner, yielded its defences to the superior skill and energy of the Anglo- Americans. At 10 A. M., on the morning of the 29th, that people, who centuries before had, with a small band, marched through the Aztec empire, and, with the pride of power, supplanted its ancient dominion, struck their flags, and quietly submitted to another and a newer race, who had come over the Atlantic later than themselves, but who had imbibed other principles, and been impelled by stronger energies, in the colder regions of the north. On the castle of San Juan, on the forts of Santiago and Conception, the banner of the American Union gracefully ascended, and, amidst the shouts and cheers of warriors on sea and shore, bent its folds to the breeze, and looked forth over the Mexican Gulf. In this great and successful enterprise, the American 'arms met with but little loss. Two officers,^ (valuable, however, to their corps and country,) with a few soldiers, were all the deaths. So great a result, obtained with so little loss, may be sought in vain among the best cam- paigns of the best generals of modern times. There are those, who think victory brightest when achieved in the carnival of death, and the laurel greenest w4iich is plucked from a crimson tree. But this is not the estimate of the humane, the honorable, or the intelligent. They, in this age of the world, will deem that achievement greatest * Captains Alburtis and Vinton, both distinguished officers, were killed, with several private soldiers. '■^/»Mnv:yvvs^'^'''i'-i^ A. American anny B. Battery, (American.) C. Cerro Gordo & Towei D. Twigj^s* inarch. a, a, ifC. Mexican biittcries. b, b. Pillow's brigade. N. R. National road. d. Gen. Shields' brigiide. G. Hill stormed by 2as ! Here was their battle-field ; and it could not be imagined that such a city, and such an empire, would be yielded with- out fierce conflicts and bloody fields. Scott was now at Churubusco. The battle is over — the victory won — and he turns from the bloody field to rejoice with his soldiers in the success of their achieve- ments and the glory of their country. He pours out his thanks to officers and men. The old soldiers seize his hands. There is silence; and in " eloquent and patriotic words," he commends their gallant conduct.^ When he ceased, there arose a shout that might have been heard on the grand Plaza of Mexico. An officer, who was present, says : " During this thril- ling scene, I looked up to a balcony of the church that had been so bravely defended. It was filled by Mexican prisoners. Among them General Rincon, a venerable old soldier, was leaning forward, his countenance glowing and his eyes sparkling with every manifestation of de- light. I verily believe that the old veteran, with the spirit of a true soldier, upon beholding a victorious general so greeted by the brave men he had just led to victory, for- Anna, who stated that he had only 18,000 remaining of 30,000 he had two days before ! The great body of the missivg were dispersed during and after the battle. Gen. Scott reports the total number of prisoners at 3000, of whom 205 were ofKcers, and eight generals, — including Salas, Rincon, Mendoza, Garcia, Guadalupe, and others of note. ^ Letter in the- Journal of Commerce. PROPOSITIONS FOR AN ARMISTICE. 433 got for a moQient bis own position, that he was defeated and a prisoner; and saw and thought only of the enthu- siasm by which he was surrounded."^ Thus passed the 20th of August in the valley of Mexi- co. It was unsurpassed in dramatic interest or national glory by any thing which had preceded it in American military history. The shades of evening gathered round the hamlet of Churubusco, and all was still, as if no fierce tempest of bloody war had ever passed over that peaceful scene I The bugle sounded the last call. The wearied soldier sank to rest. The moon and the stars kept watch over the bodies of the slain. Passed were the thunders of artillery, and quenched their fires, as \t the roar and flame of that silent volcano, which now rears its snow-crowned summit on the distant horizon ! The next morning (the 21st) General Scott, on his way to Coyohacan, was met by propositions for an armistice. He rejected them, the time asked being not agreed to. He informed the commissioners that he should sleep at Tacubaya. They told him if he would delay his march, they would direct the fortress of Chapultepec not to fire on him. But he did not delay his march. He entered Tacuba^^a, attended by the dragoons alone, and that night occupied the Archi-Episcopal palace of Mexico. He might have entered the Plaza of Mexico by storm, but did not. He chose rather to cultivate the milder graces of humanity, than to seize, at the expense of new blood, new laurels in Mexico. The voice of Peace whispered *' Forbearance" in his ear, and he answered, in the spirit of Christian magnanimity, '' Too much blood has been * Letter in the Journal of Commerce. 28 434 FORBEARANCE TOWARDS THE MEXICANS. already shed in this unnatural war."^ No laurel he has won in war, no renown which is chanted by the voice of victory, will, in the estimation of posterit}^, be greener or more worthy, than that which he has won by a continual deference to the claims of peace and humanity. The views of General Scott, in reference to the effort he should make for peace, are contained in the following extract from his Report of the 28th of August : " After so many victories, we might, with but httle ad- ditional loss, have occupied the capital the same evening. But Mr. Trist, commissioner, &c., as well as m3^self, had been admonished by the best friends of peace — intelligent neutrals and some American residents — against precipita- tion ; lest, by wantonly driving away the government and others, dishonored, we might scatter the elements of peace, excite a spirit of national desperation, and thus in- definitely postpone the hope of accommodation. Deeply impressed with this danger, and remembering our mis- sion — to conquer a peace — the army very cheerfully sac- rificed to patriotism, to the great wish and want of our country, the eclat that would have followed an entrance, sword in hand, into a great capital. Willing to leave something to this republic — of no immediate value to us — on which to rest her pride, and to recover temper, I halted our victorious corps at the gates of the city, (at least for a time,) and have them now cantoned in the neighboring villages, where they are well sheltered and supplied with all necessaries." In conformity with these views. General Scott had written a note to Santa Anna ; and on the 22d, commis- Scott's Letter to Santa Anna, August 21st. INSINCERITY OF SANTA ANNA. 435 sioners to treat of peace were appointed on both sides. We need not detail the negotiations which took place. They belong to general, rather than personal history, and may be found in the account of the Mexican war.' It is sufficient to say, that the discussions between Mr. Trist on the part of the United States, and the Commissioners (General Herrera, General Conto, General Villamil, Mr. Arroyo, Secretary, and Mr. Atristain) appointed on the part of Mexico, were continued from the 22d of August to the 7th of September, when they were broken off. While these discussions were going on, the Mexicans of the city were secretly conveying arms and munitions of war to the Castle of Chapultepec. A letter from a Mexican^ to a correspondent in New York, thus expresses the manner in which this was done : — " Anticipating a breach of the armistice, Santa Anna, for several days, had caused to he conveyed, in every possible manner, so as not to excite suspicion, arms, munitions, and food to the fortress of Chapultepec. Our citizens had carried under tlieir mantles, and on their mules, a great quantity of powder, balls, and provisions, without being once discov- ered, so great was the feeling of security and confidence among the Americans. General Scott was not a little surprised, on attacking Chapultepec, to find such obsti- nate resistance." Whether General Scott was surprised or not, (though it is not probable that he was unsuspicious of that insin ^ " The Mexicax War : a History of its origiyi, and a detailed account of the victories, which terminated in the surrender of the Capital" By- Edward D. Mansfield, a graduate of the Military Academy. Published by A. S. Barnes & Co., 51 John-street, N. Y. '^ Letter published in the Xew York Sun. 436 SANTA ANNA S CHARGES AGAINST OUR ARMY. cerity which seems habitual in the Mexican character,) this letter (which appears authentic) proves that the armis- tice was intentionally violated by Santa Anna. General Scott, however, seems to have known what was going on. For, on the 6th of September, he ad- dressed, from Tacubaya, a note to Santa Anna, in which he slates that the 7th and 12th Articles of the Military Convention, which stipulated for a supply of provisions from Mexico, had been violated ; and that he had good reason for believing, that within twenty-four hours, the 3d Article also had been violated. He stated that he liad, therefore, a right to recommence hostihties without no- tice ; but that in order to allow time for explanation, he w^ould notify him, that if satisfaction on these points was not given by 12 o'clock the next day, (the 7ih,) the armis- tice would terminate at that hour. The same day (the 6th) General Santa Anna returned a reply, in which he denied the charges made ; complained that the American army had, in some cities and villages, violated temples, plundered the sacred vases, and pro- faned " the images venerated by the Mexican people ;" and finally, that the true cause of recommencing hostili- ties was that he (Santa Anna) was not willing " to sign a treaty which would lessen considerably the territories of the Republic."^ In relation to the charge of profaning *' temples," it was the very opposite of truth. Scott had incurred the dan- ger of reproaches at home, and of murmurs in the army, in order to repress any tendency to a violation of the re- ligious feelings or public worship of the Mexican people. * See Santa Anna's Official Letter, dated 6th of September THE ARMISTICE ENDED. 437 No hand of violence or word of contempt was allowed anaong the soldiers of the army, in regard to the temples and worship of religion in Mexico. There was, in all the conduct of Scott towards the private property and reli- gious rights of the Mexican people, a high honor and a manly humanity which claims praise from all who love mercy or regard justice. Thus ended the armistice ; and the American army, which had closed the 20th of August in a series of splen- did victories, now prepared to resume, amidst struggle and battle, its triumphant march to the city of Mexico 438 DEFEXCES OF MEXICO. CHAPTER XXV. Description of the Defences of Mexico. — Of Molino del Rej. — ^Of Cha- pultepec. — Battle of Molino del Rey. — Storm of Cbapultepec, — Cap- ture of Mexico. — Entrance into the City .^Scott's Address. — Insurrec- tion of the Leperos. — Scott's Orders. — Speech to the Rifles. — Scott levies Contributions. — Police Regulations. — Quiet of the City, At 12 meridian of the 7th of September, 1847, the ar- mistice, or military convention, between the armies of Mexico and the United States, terminated, by the terms of General Scott's note to Santa Anna. The Mexicans, as we have seen, had availed themselves of the time occu- pied in negotiations to arm and provision their remaining fortifications. We must now take a glance at their de- fences, in order to understand what was yet necessary to be accomplished by the i\.merican army. The exterior line of defences had now been either turned or forced. Scott and his troops were on one of the main causeways, and in full sight of the cit}^ It was yet defended, however, by its garitas, or fortified gales and posts, and by the formidable castle of Chapultepec. Tacubaya, the head-quarters of Scott, was, at the nearest point, about twelve hundred j'ards (point-blanc range for twelve-pounders) from the fortified hill of Chapultepec' The city of [Mexico is two and a half miles off. At the foot of Chapultepec, and on the east side, the Tacubaya causeway branches into two ; one eastwardly to the Belen gate, and one northwardly to the San Cosmo gate. At the ^ Measured from the Map of the " Battle Fields," by Tui-nbull, Hard- castle, and McClellan. __^ CHAPULTEPEC. 439 village of Tacubaya, another road led to the Piedad cause- way ; also leading to the Belen gate.' The farthest point of either of these three roads (the Piedad causeway) was only 2500 yards ; while the w^hole of the Tacubaya cause- ways to the Belen and San Cosmo gates- w^as under the fire of the castle. The city itself was within reach of bom- bardment from heavy mortars. This view of the topog- raphy and localities around Chapultepec will inform the reader why it was necessary to the military possession of Mexico, that Chapultepec should be taken. Let us now examine the nature and extent of the defences which re- mained to be taken. Chapultepec is a porphyritic rock, called, in the Aztec language, " Grasshopper's Hill." It rose from the former margin of the lake, was the resort of the Aztec princes, and is the real site of the much-sought Halls of the Mon- tezumas. Here are the remains of gardens, groves, and grottoes — the lingering remnants of that magnificence which adorned the ancient city of Mexico. Here, also, the Spanish viceroys selected their residence, as the most beautiful spot in the valley of Mexico. And here was now placed the Military College. The cadets of the institution w^erc now among its defenders. The buildings on the top were well fortified, and the base of the hill was nearly surrounded by a thick stone wall. On the north, east, and south, this hill was abrupt and stony. On the west only (from the city) it seemed to permit any approach. On this side, down the slope, was a heavy forest. On this side, the American commander determined to assault it ; but here, also, were formidable defences. * See Map. 440 MOLINO.DEL REY. El Molino del Rey is just at the foot of this hill-slope, adjoins the grove of trees, and is a stone building of thick and high walls, with lowers at the end. This was strongly garrisoned, and made a sort of depot, and was supposed to have been used as a foundry recently, though really built for mills, and called " the King's Mill." Casa de Mata is another massive, thick-walled stone building, standing about four hundred yards to the west of Molino del Rey, and in a straight line with that and the castle of Chapultepec. It is also at the foot of a gentle de- clivity or ridge, descending from the village of Tacubaya. General Scott had ascertained that the Molino del Rey actually contained a cannon foundry of great use to the enemy ; and that within the last two days (prior to the 7th), church bells had been sent out to be cast into cannon.' In addition to this, it was discovered that Casa de Mata con- tained a large supply of powder. A large body of the enemy were now hovering about Molino del Rey, and General Scott determined at once to destroy the foundry, arms, and munitions there, to prevent the enemy from arming the city with cannon ; and thus, perhaps, to avoid the necessity of taking Chapultepec, if the southern gates of the city could be approached easier. The assault on Molino del Rey was intrusted to General Worth, one of the most gallant officers of the army. He was ordered to carry the enemy's lines, capture their ar- tillery, destroy their machinery, and then return to Tacu- baya ; the army being not prepared to make the final at- tack on Chapultepec, if that attack should prove to be in- evitable.^ The actual number, strength, and batteries of ' Scott's Official Report of September 11th. ' Ibid. MEXICAN FORCE. 441 the enemy were unknown before the attack, and proved in the end to be greater than was anticipated. According to the Mexican account, the Casa de Mata was occupied by 1500 Mexican regulars, under the command of General Perez.' The Molino del Rey was commanded by General Leon, who had with him the battalion of Mina, com- manded by Colonel Balderos ; the battalions of Union and La Patria, from Oaxaca ; and a body from Queretaro, mostly National Guards.^ Besides these, there were in lines, extending from post to post, ten thousand men, un- der the command of Santa Anna. It was afterwards ascer- tained from prisoners that the whole Mexican force en- gaged amounted to fourteen thousand men.^ The corps ordered by General Scott to the attack of this line was composed as follows : 1st Division (General Worth), about 2,000 Cadwallader's Brigade (11th, 14th, and Voltigeurs),. .784 Three squadrons of dragoons and company of mount- ed riflemen, under Major Sumner, 270 Drum's battery (three field-pieces), ^ Huger's battery (two 24-pounders), \ Total corps of General Worth'' men, 3154 Worth's dispositions for the attack conformed to the enemy's line of defences. The enemy's left wing rested on Molino del Rey, extending to Chapultepec ; his centre was foTmed in lines, defended by a field-battery ; and his right wing rested on Casa de Mata. The weak point was the centre, and it was there that Worth directed an as- saulting party of five hundred picked men, under the ' Scott's Official Report. • " Worth's Report. ' Boletin de Atlisco. * The same. 442 BATTLE OF MOLINO DEL REY. • command of Major Wright, of the 8th Infantry. This was supported by Huger's battery. Garland's brigade formed the right wing, supported by Drum's battery, at- tacking MoHno del Rey, and endeavoring to cut it off from the support of Chapultepec. The 2d Brigade, com- manded by Col. Mcintosh, and supported by Duncan's bat- tery, formed the left; between which and Huger's battery, on a ridge, was placed Cadwallader's brigade, in reserve. At 3 o'clock on the morning of the 8th of September the several columns were put in motion ; and at dawn the action commenced, by the opening of Huger's guns on Molino del Rey. A sensible effect was produced, when the column under Wright, guided by Captain Mason of the Engineers, dashed forward to the assault. Rushing forward, they drove infantry and artillerymen before them. The field-battery was taken, and the guns turned upon the enemy. Just then, however, he rallied, and, with supe- rior forces, poured in a destructive fire of musketry. The column falters. Eleven officers out of fourteen are killed ! The Mexicans regain their position ; but they are not destined to keep it. A portion of Cadwallader's brigade, under Captain Kirby Smith, come into action. The enemy is driven back again, and routed. His two wing forts, Casa de Mata and Molino del Rey, are left isolated. Molino del Rey, on the right, was assaulted and carried by Garland's brigade ; but on the left of our line, a more desperate and doubtful battle was maintained around Casa de Mata. It proved to be a strong stone citadel, with bastions and ditches.' Here was a hot fight ; the column • ' General Worth's Official Report. DEFEAT OF THE MEXICANS. 443 of Mcintosh charging on, and the enemy, behind walls and parapets, pouring upon them a deadly fire. Here Col. Scott, Waile, and Mcintosh fell ; while our gallant men, for a moment dismayed, fell back behind Duncan's battery. Then advanced a splendid column of Mexican cavalry, in bright uniforms, defiling round the right of their intrenchments, to fall upon our repulsed column. But now the fire of Duncan's battery opens upon them, when near by, scattering their columns in confusion. Sumner's dragoons then charge upon them, and the rout of the enemy is complete ! Our battery again re-opens upon Casa de Mata. A few shots more, and the Mexican infantry retreat. The cavalry is already routed, and the fortifica- tions are abandoned. The battle of Molino del Rey has been fought and won. The Mexican army, numbering fourteen thousand, w^hen well posted, and supported by three strong fortifications, had been defeated by one-fourth their number, fighting without defences ! This victory, though glorious, was one of the bloodiest recorded in American history.' Nearly one-fourth of Worth's whole corps were either killed or wounded ! The Mexican loss was equally great. Leon, Balderos, Huerto, Mateos, and others of their best officers, were killed ; while fifty-two commissioned officers and eight hundred men remained prisoners in the Amer- ' The official return of troops engaged, under the command of General "Worth, at Mohno del Rey, shows that there were of all arms engaged 8447 men. The official return of casualties in the battle proves that 729 privates, and 58 officers, were killed or wounded. Out of 197 offi- cers present, there were 58 officers, being 30 per cent, of the whole, killed or Wounded ! Among tli^i were some of the most gallant men of the armj and the losses of that day were severely felt. 444 DESTRUCTION OF gASA DE MATA. ican hands. General Worth immediately blew up Casa de Mata, destroyed the machinery and materiel in the mill, and carried off large quantities of arms and ammuni- tion. These were the objects of the battle — to cut off these resources from the defence of Mexico. When this was accomplished, the ruins were evacuated, and the army withdrew to Tacubaya. There is no doubt that in the battle of Molino del Rey, the fortifications of the enemy, and the garrison and mu- nitions within them, were greater than General Scott an- ticipated ; but this was from no want of proper precaution. The most daring reconnaissance of the ground had been made by Captain Mason of the Engineers, on the day previous (the 7th)' ; and so far as the defences could be measured in advance, they were so. The heavy walls and deep ditches, however, of both the stone buildings, ena- bled the enemy to maintain a steady and well-directed fire upon the assaulting column, so that the battle, though won, was attended with severe loss. The city of Mexico now lay under the eye of General Scott, with none but its own peculiar defences — the Mili- tary College, on Chapultepec hill, being one. It undoubt- edly occurs to the reader, as it did to General Scott — Could not Mexico be approached on another causeway, and thus avoid Chapultepec ? To determine this point, he immediately detached the engineer. Captain Lee, with Lieutenants Beauregard, Stevens, and Tower, to make reconnaissances of other approaches, especially the south- ern gates, the Piedad Nino Perdido, and Paseo de la Viga. ^ General "Worth's OflBcial Repcrt. APPROACHES TO THE CITY. 445 " The city of Mexico stands on a slight swell of ground, near the centre of an irregular basin, and is girdled with a ditch in its greater extent — a navigable canal of great breadth -and depth — very difficult to bridge in the presence of an enemy, and serving at once for drainage, custorn- house purposes, and military defence ; leaving eight en- trances or gates, over arches, each of which we found de- fended by a system of strong works, that seemed to re- quire nothing but some men and guns to be impregnable.'" The approaches to the city are over elevated cause- ways, flanked by ditches. The roads and bridges were in many places broken by the enemy, to prevent the ap- proaches of our army. It had now got to be the wet sea- son, and the intervening meadows were in many places covered with water, or covered with marshes. After a personal survey of the whole ground, General Scott deemed the approaches by Chapultepec less difficult, and determined to adopt that route. In the mean time he had advanced (to cover the recon- naissance) the division of Pillow and Riley's Brigade, on the San Antonia road, towards the southern gates ; and now he made a sudden inversion of that movement towards the south-west, in order to approach by Chapul- tepec. In order to do this with less loss, he masked the real movement by the appearance of a general attack on the southern gates. Accordingly, Pillow's division was marched up, in the day-time, the 11th of September; while both divisions of Pillow and Quitman were ordered back, hy night, to rejoin Scott at Tacubaya. Twiggs, with Riley's Brigade, and Taylor's and Steptoe's batteries, * General Scott's Report. 446 DESCRIPTION OF CHAPULTEPEC. were left in front of the southern gates, to raanceuvre and make false attacks. It appears, from Mexican accounts, that the feint was entirely successful/ The light batteries of Steptoe and Taylor, on the San Antonia road, diverted the enemy's attention, and left them uncertain where the real attack was to be made. The first thing to be done was to carry Chapultepec. This hill we have already described. A steep, rocky height, rising one hundred and fifty feet above the sur- rounding grounds, it was defended by a strong castle of thick stone walls. The whole fortress is nine hundred feet in length, and the te7're-2:>lem and main buildings six hundred feet. The following description is by an officer of the army :^ " The castle is about ten feet high, and the whole struc- ture, including the wings, bastions, parapets, redoubts, and batteries, is very strongly built, and of the most splen- did architecture. A splendid dome decorates the top, rising in great majesty about twenty feet above the whole truly grand and magnificent pile, and near which is the front centre, supported by a stone arch, upon w^hich is painted the coat-of-arms of the republic, where once floated the tri-colored banner, but is now decorated. by the glori- ous stars and stripes of our own happy land. Two very strongly built stone walls surround the whole ; and at the west end, where we stormed the works, the outer walls are some ten feet apart, and twelve or fifteen feet highr over which we charged by the help of fascines. It was defended by heavy artillery, manned by the most learned ^ Bolctin de Atlisco. ^ Letter of Lieutenant Sutten, of the 15th lufaiitry, in the "Wasliing- ton Unio7i. * STORM OF CHAPULTEPEC. 447 and skilful gunners of their army, including some French artillerists of distinction. The infantry force consisted of the officers and students of the institution, and the national guards, and chosen men of war of the republic — the whole under the command of General Bravo, whom we made prisoner. The whole hill is spotted with forts and out- posts, and stone and mud walls, which were filled with their picket or castle guard. A huge, high stone wall ex- tends around the whole frowning craggy mount, and ano- ther along the southeast base, midway from the former and the castle. A well-paved road leads up in a triangu- lar form to the main gate, entering the south terre-plein ; and the whole works are ingeniously and beautifully orna- mented with Spanish fastidiousness and skill." To carry this fortress with the least loss, General Scott determined to batter it with heavy ordnance, so as to make a decided impression before the storming parties ad- vanced.^ This could be easily done, as Tacubaya was within cannon-shot ; and a ridge or hill in front, declining towards Molino del Rey (foot of Chapultepec), afforded a good position for batteries. Accordingly, on the night of the lllh, four batteries of heavy cannon were erected be- tween Tacuba3-a and Chapultepec, commanded respect- ively by Captain Drum, Captain Hagner, Captain Brooks, and Lieutenant Stone. These batteries were placed in po- sition by the engineer officers, Huger and Lee, so that they were within good range for siege-pieces. On the morning of the 12th, the batteries commenced their fire. That day was occupied entirely in the cannonade on both sides. It was a splendid sight. Burning fuzees passed ' Scott's Official Report. 448 ATTACK ON CHAPULTEPEC. through the air ; bombs burst around ; every ball went crashing through the building, and every shell tore up the ramparts ! The fire of the enemy was scarcely less se- vere ; and night only closed this scene of fiery illumina- tion and descending balls. On the 13th, all arrangements were made for the as- sault. General Smith's Brigade, which, on the afternoon of the 12th, had moved up to Piedad, had now arrived on the ground. The attack is to be made in two columns : one on the west side, under the command of Pillow ; and one on the southeast, under the com.mand of Quitman. Each is to be preceded by a storming party : that of Pil- low, by 250 men, volunteers from Worth's division, under Captain McKenzie, of the 2d Artillery ; that of Quitman, by the same number, under Captain Carey, of the 2d In- fantry. Each of the storming parties was furnished with scaling-ladders.^ The signal for the attack was given at a momentary cessation of fire, on the part of our batteries. This was at 8 A. M. of the 13th, when the divisions of Pillow and Quitman moved forward ; while our batteries, when they had opportunity, threw shot and shells over the heads of our men, to deter the enemy from reinforcing the castle. While this was going on, the Reserve, under Worth, was to turn Chapultepec, and, gaining the north side, either assist in the attack, or cut off the enemy's retreat. The assaulting column under General Pillow advanced on the west, through an open grove filled with sharp- shooters, which were speedily dislodged, and rapidly gained the foot of the rocky acclivity. Here Pillow was * Scott's Official Report. Scott's description of the battle. 449 wounded, by a shot in tlie ankle ; and the command (re- inforced by Clarke's Brigade from Worth) devolved on General Cadwallader. Here occurred the main battle, and it is best described in the words of General Scott :' " The broken acclivity was still to be ascended, and a strong redoubt, midway, to be carried, before reaching the castle on the heights. The advance of our brave men, led by brave officers, though necessarily slow, was un- wavering, over rocks, chasnjs, and mines, and under the hottest fire of cannon and musketry. The redoubt now- yielded to resistless valor, and the shouts that followed announced to the castle the fate that impended. The enemy were steadily driven from shelter to shelter. The retreat allowed not lime to fire a single mine, without the certainty of blowing up friend and foe. Those who, at a distance, attempted to apply matches to the long trains, were shot down by our men. There was death below as well as above ground. At length the ditch and wall of the main work were reached ; the scaling-ladders were brought up and planted by the storming parties ; some of the daring spirits first in the assault were cast down — killed or wounded ; but a lodgment was soon made ; streams of heroes followed ; all opposition was overcome, and several of our regimental colors flung out from the upper walls, amidst long-continued shouts and cheers, which sent dismay into the capital. No scene could have been more animating or glorious." While this was going on to the west of Chapultepec, the column of Quitman was performing a similar part on » General Scott's Official Report, dated iS^ational Palace of Mexico, September 18, 1847. 29 - 450 TRUE HALLS OF JTHE MONTEZUMAS. the east. Having to advance on a causeway, flanked by- deep ditches, he had httle room for manoeuvring. In front was a strong body of the enemy and two batteries. These were soon carried ; and the volunteers of New York, South Carohna, and Pennsylvania, with the gallant Rifles, under Smith, arrived in time to join the storming party of Pillow's division, and capture together this formidable fortress. The enemy was chased in every direction ; many killed, and many more captured. " The castle," says an ofiicer, "was completely torn to pieces. Nearly every part was riddled by our shot, while the pavements and fortifications were completely torn up by the shells. In it were crowds of prisoners of every rank and color ; among whom were fifty general officers, and about a hun- dred cadets of the Mexican Military Academy. The lat- ter were pretty little fellows from ten to sixteen years of age. Several of them were killed fighting like demons ; and, indeed, they showed an example of courage worthy of imitation by some of their superiors in rank."^ Chapultepec is taken. Here were the true Halls of the Montczumas ; those halls which had so allured the adventurous soldier. Here Montezuma himself had re- tired from the cares of business, and the heat of the city, to enjoy the ease of retirement. Here the luxurious Vice- roys of Spain had erected their regal palaces ; and here was now the National Military School, placed amidst the remains of gardens, and the ruins of palaces, once occu- pied b}^ the royal race of the Aztecs. Fallen now are the monuments of the Aztecs ; fallen, too, their Span- ish conquerors ; and fallen, also,* the mixed descend- ^ Letter iu the New York Courier. SCOTT ON THE WALLS OF THE CASTLE. 451 anls of both, who had here planted the standard of inde- pendence. The Anglo-American replaces both with the arms of a superior skill and a greater strength. It was a triumph of civilization, as well as a victory to military genius, when Scott's victorious troops shouted their con quest from the battlements of Chapultepec ! It was a demonstration of the superior strength and energy imparted to a people, both physically and morally, by the freedom, tolerance, and general education of a really republican government. Nothing now remained between the victorious army and the National Palace but the gates, or garitas, which were small fortified posts, serving as custom-houses in time of peace, and forts in war. Between Chapultepec and the city, on two causeways, lay the gates of Belen and San Cosmo. Scott had arrived on the walls of the castle just as it had been carried, and, with a rapid cou^ cfcrAl, surveyed the city, the fields, and the causeways before him. He immediately determined to enter the city with Worth's corps, by the San Cosmo gate, leaving Quitman's division to make a feint by the Belen gate. Both attacks, how- ever, proved real. Worth's division, during the assault on Chapultepec, had turned the hill, and got round by the north-centre of that fortress, where he attacked the right wing of the Mexican army, and was now pursuing him on tlie San Cosmo road. Quitman, on the other hand, was in full march on the causeway to the Belen gate.' Scott, after garrisoning Chapultepec with the 15th In- fantry, and ordering Cadwallader to the support of Worth, * Scott's Official Report. 452 A STREET FIGHT. joined the advance of his corps, in the suburb of San Cosmo. Here, at the junction of the roads, he found one of the enemy's most formidable defences dismantled — a proof that the enemy had been mistaken in the movements of our army. They either expected that the southern gates would be attacked (where the feint was made by Twiggs), or that our army would fail in tlieir attack on Chapultepec. In this suburb, however. Worth's troops became en- gaged in a street fight with the enemy, posted in gardens, at windows, and on house-tops. The mountain howitzers of Cadwallader's Brigade, preceded by pioneers, with pick axes and crowbars, soon opened the w^ay. Two batteries were carried ; and by 8 a. m.. Worth had placed his sen- tinels and sheltered his troops for the night. In the mean time, Scott had returned to the fort of Chapultepec, and ordered up siege-guns, intrenching tools, ammunition, and reinforcements. Quitman had continued his advance towards the Belen gate. The general-in-chief had repeatedly stated to him, that the San Cosmo gate was the easiest to carry, and hence he need not press his advance on this route. But the gallantry and impetuosity of the corps urged them forward ; so that, at 2 p. m., this division had carried a battery of two guns, and, at length, the Belen gate itself! This was not done, however, with- out hard fighting, and a tremendous fire of artillery from both front and flank batteries. In the centre of the cause- way was an aqueduct, from arch to arch of which the men crept along. About 1 p. m., the garita was charged by the Rifles, and carried. Here the men constructed a battery of sand-bags, and commenced a sharp fire on the enemy. Thus Quitman's division was actually within VIGILANCE OF SCOTT. 453 the city ; and that night the men slept within the arches of the aqueduct and the houses of the garita} Thus closed the 13th day of Sepleniber. On the 8t.h, the battle of Molino del Rey had been fought. On the 9th and 10th, reconnaissances had been made. On the 11th and 12th, the preparations were finished, and the troops moved into position. On the morning of this day, Chapultepec had been stormed ; and all day, the corps of Worth and Quitman had been pursuing the remnants of Santa Anna's army — fighting their way to the San Cosmo and Belen gates — and were now within the very precincts of Mexico. In all this arduous and glorious day, Scott had been wher- ever he could best give his directions, or animate his men, or share in the conflicts of glorious battle. From the ridge of Tacubaya, he directs his engineers to place the batteries against Chapultepec. On the summit of that renowned castle, he joins the victorious columns, who plant their colors and shout their joy on its dismantled walls. On the San Cosmo causeway, he hastens on with the advan- cing division of Worth. In the suburb, he finds them engaged in a street fight, and returns to send up the siege- train, and collect the scattered men. Thus, from point to point, he overlooks and superintends the complicated operations of this eventful day ; in every place manifesting the highest military genius, and in all circumstances exer- cising the greatest self-command, the most prudential care, and the most sagacious foresight. Night has gathered round the valley of Mexico. The army of Santa Anna, which in the morning had displayed * Letter in the JSTew York Courier. 454 NIGHT AFTER A BATTLE. • its brilliant uniforms, poured its deadly fire from the battle- ments of Chapultepec, defended the causeways, and fought at San Cosmo and Belen, had now disappeared ! The flag of the Union, with its stars in azure, and its bars of crim- son, floated gracefully from the walls of the castle and the garitas of the city. The sentinels are set. The weary soldiers hav^ sunk to rest, as if no battle had ever been fought — no^angers ever incurred ! The stars shine above ; but, alas for the dead ! the famished dogs of the city are seen to prowl out, and seize upon their cold bodies — the once-loved bodies of those for whom mothers, sisters, wives, will wait and long for in vain !^ In the midst of the night, Santa Anna, with the small remains of his army — about two thousand in number — marched out by a northwestern gate, and Mexico was left at the m^'cy of our army. At 4 a. m. (about daylight) of the 14th, a deputation of the Ayuntamiento (city council) waited upon General Scott, to inform him that the army and federal government had fled, and to demand terms of capitulation for the church, the citizens, and the munici- pal authorities.^ He promptly replied that he would sign no capitulation, for the city was virtually in possession of the divisions of Quitman and Worth the day before. He informed them that he should levy on the city a moderate contribution for special purposes ; but the army would come under no terms not self-imposed, and such as its own honor, the dignity of the United States, and the spirit of the age demanded. He then sent orders to the divisions of Worth and Quitman to advance cautiously to the heart of the city, and occupy its strong and commanding points. * Intercepted Mexican Letters. ^ General Scott's Official Report. SCOTT IN THE CiTY OF MEXICO. 455 By express order of Scott, the division of Worth, which might have been in advance, were halted at the Alameda — a green park, w'ithin three squares of the Grand Plaza. This was an act of honorable justice to the corps of Quit- man, which had, the night before, been the first to capture a gate, and enter the city. And novi^ a detachment of Quitman's division marches into the Grand Plaza of Mexico ; and from the top of the National Palace, the stars and stripes of the Union, and the regimental colors of the " Rifles," floating on the wind, gave notice to the world that the second conquest of Mexico was complete ! Just at this moment, Scott, in full uniform, mounted on his charger, and conspicuous amidst his staff, rode through the column to the Plaza. The enemy were still firing from the house-tops ; and as he passed the Voltigeurs, who were yelling and cheering, he waved his cap, while the tears ran down his cheeks, and exclaimed, '* My heart is ivith you."'- It was just 9 o'clock in the morning when he made his way to the National Palace. '* A tremendous hurrah broke from the corner of the plaza, and in a few minutes were seen the tovv^ering plumes and commanding form of our gallant old hero. General Scott, escorted by the 2d Dra- goons. The heartfelt welcome that came from our little band was such as Montezuma's halls had never heard, and must have deeply affected the general. Well they might, for of the ten thousand gallant spirits that welcomed him at Puebla, scarcely seven thousand were left. The bloody fields, of Coiitreras, Churuhusco, Sa?i Antonia, El * Letter of a Voltigeur. 20 450 scott's sympathy^for the soldier. Molino del Rei/, ChapuUepec, and the Garita had laid low three thousand of our gallant army, and filled with grief and sorrow the hearts of all the rest.'" Wherever Scott moved among the soldiers, he addressed them with warm affection, participating both in their jo3^s and their sorrows. The campaign had been one of hard- ship and loss. Glorious were its victories, but bloody its battle-fields ! He remembered this, and sympathized w^ith the soldier. His short but emphatic addresses had a profound effect on the men. As he passed a portion of the Rifle Regiment, he returned their salute, saying with energy and emphasis — " Brave Rifles ! Veterans ! You have been baptized in fire and blood, and have come out steel /" The unbidden tear stole to the eyes of those rough but gallant spirits, whose hearts knew no fear, and who had never yet, in their long trial, faltered or fallen back, while their flashing eyes and upright forms declared its truth. " Had you seen this," said one who was pres- ent, " you would have felt, with me, that such words as those wiped out long months of hardship and suffering."^ Scott was now standing in the Grand Plaza of Mexico, and the band of the 2d Dragoons played Yankee Doodle. An immense crowd of blanketed leperos, the scum of the capital, were congregated in the Plaza. They pressed upon our soldiers, and eyed them as if they were beings of another world .^ So much were they in the way, that General Scott was obliged to clear the street with the dragoons, being careful, however, not to injure them. In a short time, a fire was commenced on our troops from the tops of houses, windows, streets, and wherever a place * Letter of an Officei- in the New York Courier. ' The same. * Kendall's Letter of the 14th September. A HOUSE-BATTLE,. • 457 of refuge couid be found. A large number of prisoners had been let loose the night before. These were joined by scattered bands of Mexican soldiers, and finally by the lejjeros who had crowded the Plaza. It seems that this attack was deliberately made by the people and soldiers/ but was not approved by the municipal authorities.^ This was the commencement of a house-battle in the city. It continued during the greater part of the day (14th), and many of our men and officers were killed or wounded. The divisions of Twiggs and Worth were en- gaged in a severe fight ; but, by sweeping the streets with light batteries, and picking the enemy off by the rifles, the enemy were silenced before night. Some houses were blown up, and General Scott was obliged to threaten the destruction of all houses, convents, or buildings, from which the army should be fired upon. At length, how- ever, all was quiet. In a few days the people began to resume their business, and all things went on as usual. This was owing, in a great degree, to the humanity and moderation of Scott in his treatment of the Mexicans, and his careful forbearance from any injury or insult towards the religious or social institutions of the country. Indeed, no conqueror has ever entered a city on earth, either within Christian or pagan times, and exercised so much kindness, withheld so much that might have been done within the rules of war, and exhibited so much of that knightly courtesy which alone graces a Christian soldier in the best period of civilization ! The proof of this will be found in his or- ders, police regulations, and whole military conduct within the city. * Letter of a Mexican, in the Boletm de Atlisco. ^ Scott's Official Report. 458 sct)T;T's respect for the No sooner was the insurrection in Mexico entirely quelled, than Scott issued General Order No. 286, dated Sept. 16th, 1847, which begins with these words : " The general-in-chief calls upon his brethren in arms to return, both in public and private worship, thanks and gratitude to God for the signal triumphs which they have recently achieved for their country." It is wxll known that the religion of Mexico is Roman Catholic. On the other hand, the great body of the Americans, as well as General Scott himself, were Prot- estants. That in such a case there should be some dis- turbance or annoyance to the religious customs and feel- ings of the conquered, by the conquerors (however wrong such things intrinsically are), is no more than natural, and what has certainly happened in all the previous history of the world. Aware of this, and determined that his coun- try should have no such wrong laid to its charge, Scott had, on his departure from Washington, and on his arrival at Vera Cruz, taken measures to prevent such an occur- rence. He issued the strictest orders that the churches and religious property should be held sacred, that no in- terruption to religious ceremonies should be allowed, and that a decent respect should be paid to the religious opin- ions of all. In conformity with this principle. Order 297, dated September 24th, 1847, was issued, which contained the following paragraphs, viz. :^ " 1. Here, as in all Roman Catholic countries, there are frequent religious processions in the streets, as well as in churches — such as the elevation of the Host, the viatl- cum^ funerals, &c. * Order l^o. 291, issued from the IS'ational Palace. RELIGIOUS FEELINGS OF THE MEXICANS. 459 *' 2. The interruption of such processions has already- been prohibited in orders ; and as no civihzed person will ever wantonly do any act to hurt the religious feehno-s of others, it is earnestly requested of all Protestant Amer- icans either to keep out of the way, or to pay to the Catholic religion and its ceremonies every decent mark of respect and deference." General Quitman was appointed by Scott civil and military governor of Mexico. In this capacity, he issued orders establishing police regulations, insuring the quiet of the city ; but, at the same time, the mildest and most moderate in terms towards the Mexicans. The city council were left in possession of the custom-house, post- office, public records and archives, and were made respon- sible for the protection of private property. On the 16th, the Ayuntimiento organized a civic force of six hundred men, who, under the protection of the American army, should preserve order and quiet. On the 18ih, they issued adecree directing the courts, custom-house, and post-office to reopen, and the people to resume their business, trades, and occupations. These prompt measures on the part of the commander- in-chief, the city governor, and the Ayuntimiento had the most happy effect. In a few days, all was quiet. The people recommenced their aflfairs, and the streets again appeared busy and cheerful. The storm of war was passed, and commerce resumed its wonted sway.' In all conquests of cities, without an express capitula- tion, it has been usual either to deliver them over to the sack of soldiers, or to impose upon them enormous contri- * El Arco L'is, of the 30th September. 460 MILITARY ^SYLUMS. butions. Even in Christian countries, this has been the case. General Scott permitted neither of these. Although he signed no capitulation, he observed towards Mexico, now a conquered city, all the courtesy and kindness which it was possible to bestow. History presents scarcely a parallel to such generous conduct in war. It was felt by all present. A foreigner says : " General Scott is taking great precautions to prevent outrages ; and I must say, to the credit of the Americans, that they have behaved with much more prudence than could have been expected under existing circumstances, and the inhospitable reception they met wilh."^ A slight contribution of $150,000 was imposed on the city, for the use of the army. This was distributed by Scott as follow^s : — $20,000 for " extra comforts for the wounded and sick in hospitals ;" $90,000 for the purchase of *' blankets and shoes for gratuitous distribution among the rank and file of the army ;" and $40,000 " for other necessary military purposes."' This last sum, with other militaiy funds, was, in the session of Congress 1850-51, made the basis of a perma- nent fund for the establishment of mihtary as3dums for the retired invalids of the army. This measure is alike honor- able to Congress and to General Scott. When these asylums shall arise to meet the eyes of coming genera- tions, and the war-w^orn veteran be seen reclining in his comfortable quarters, it will be remembered that the hero who was made illustrious by battles, was also graced by humanity to a fallen foe, and a generous gratitude to his companions in arms. * New Orleans Picayune, "^ General Orders, 17th Sept. LOSSES OF THE AMERICAN ARMY. 461 CHAPTER XXVI, Relative Loss of the American and Mexican Armies. — Plan of the Cam- paign. — Its Consequences. — Fruits of Victory. — Acquisitions of Terri- tory. — Scott's Uniform Success. — His Sagacity. — Cass's Speech. — Par- allel between Scott and ]N"apoleon, and Scott and Cortez. On the 18th September, 1847, the American army was in quiet possession of the city of Mexico. The roar of battle was heard no more ; the insurrection of the city was over ; the shops were opened ; the church-belJs rung; the theatres w^ere thronged ; and the conquerors had re- stored order, repressed crime, and reanimated the people. The genius of Scott w^as as much exhibited in the charms of peace as in the terrors of war. All this was accomplished with the smallest possible force. After deducting the positive losses, and the garrison of Cha- pultepec, with the sick in hospitals, the effective men which composed the army in Mexico were only six thousand ! The following tables represent the losses of the Amer- ican and Mexican armies respectively : Losses of the American Army. Killed. Wounded. August 19, 20. I 137 877 Battles of Contreras, Antonia, and Churubusco . S Septembers. ) j^g gg^ Battle of Molino del Key ) September 12, 13, 14. ) j^q 703 Chapultepec, and Gates of Belen and San Cosmo . S Missing, (probably killed) ^^ Total Losses 468 2,245 Aggregate 2,713 462 LOSSES OF THE MEXICAN Army marching from Puebla , 10,738 Deduct losses 2,713 Remaining 8,025 Deduct sick and garrison of Chapultepec 2,000 Effective men in Mexico 6,025 Losses of the Mexican Army. Killed and wounded 7,000 Prisoners 3,730 Total hors du combat 10,730 Among the officers killed or taken were thirteen gen- erals, of whom three had been presidents of the republic. The entire force of the Mexican army in the field in the valley of Mexico was more than thirty thousand men ! Of this army, not more than three or four thousand were now together ; and these so dispirited, that in a few days afterwards they were entirely disbanded. Santa Anna appeared a few days before Puebla, and undertook the siege of Col. Childs' intrenchments. The attempt, how- ever, was abortive ; and in a short time his men deserted him, and he was left with scarcely a guard of cavalry. Thus ended the active part of the war in Mexico. Scott's march into the Grand Plaza of Mexico proved in reality the "conquest of peace." Scott found himself, as we have said, with only six thousand effectives in the city of Mexico, It appeared, however, in official reports, that many thousand men had been sent him beyond what were ever present with the army. This was true. But while these men were on the way, sickness, battle, and desertion were rapidly dimin- ishing the active corps in the field ; so that there were never AND AMERICAN ARMIES. 463 so many, by at least one-third, as were represented in the official returns of the numbers sent out to recruit the army. The following table of the original strength and subse- quent losses of five regiments (three of regulars, and two of volunteers) will illustrate the manner in which the troops dwindled away : Keglments. gJJ-^ South Carolina Volunteers^ 750 Rifle Regiment'^ 659 New York Volunteers' 700 Voltigeurs, and the 11th and 14th) Regiments of Infantry* S ' Total of six regiments 4,109 1,315 2,804 Reported for duty near Mexico 33 per cent. Lost by sickness, battle, desertion, and wounded in hos- pitals 67 « In the AppWldix to the " Mexican War'" is the following table of the " Killed," " Died of Wounds," " Died of Sick- ness," and " Deserted," in these five regiments, viz. : strength at Mexico. Dimi- nution. 203 557 170 489 158 542 784 1,216 Regiments. KUled in battle. Died of Wounds. Died of Disease. Deserted. Disch. from dis- ability. Total. S. Carolina Volunteers. New York Volunteers. Rifle Regiment Voltigeurs, and 11th ) and 141h Regiments \ 30 29 27 27 26 19 18 31 234 77 120 279 41 362 64 186 104 117 435 604 229 523 113 94 710 653 221 1791 ^ Lieutenant-Colonel Dickinson's Official Report of strength and loss at Churubusco. ^ Letter of an Officer of the Rifles, in the N'ew^ York Courier. =» General Shields' Official Report. * General Worth's Official Report, which gives the strength of Cad wallader's Brigade. ^ The Mexican War, by Edward D. Mansfield, a graduate of the Military Academy; published by A. S. Barnes & Co., 51 John street, New York. 464 MISTAKEN POLICY OF T^E ADMINISTRATION. The diminution here is 1013 less than in the former table ; but the difference is probably caused by the fact, that the sick and the luounded in hospitals is not included in the last table, while they are included in the former : the " strength at Mexico" being the " effectivea'^ only. The general order of the army (No. 284), on the morn- ing of the 18th of September, announced that through " God's favor and the valor of the army have the colors of our country been hoisted in the capital of Mexico, and upon the palace of its government " The army had in- deed been most signally blest, both by the Divine favor, and in the successful conduct of its own arrangements. To the origin and direction of those arrangements it is the duty of history to refer, that posterity may know to whose skill, prudence, or sagacity are due results which were at once so glorious and so much applauded by mankind. The war with Mexico had been prosecuted through 1846, up to the battle of Buena Vista, with a view to force a peace with Mexico, by cutting off the provinces of the Rio Grande. That this was a mistaken view of policy, was proved not only by the result, but by a mere glance at the actual condition of the Mexican Republic. The central States — Mexico, Puebla, Queretaro, &c. — con- tained four-fifths the population and wealth of the whole country. Those on the Rio Grande, and those on the Pacific, though extensive in territory, were sparse in num- bers, and scant in commerce and wealth. The attack and even conquest of those new and unsettled States would, therefore, be comparatively unfelt in the heart and body of the empire. The invasion and conquest of the country on the Rio Grande was, however, made the object of the campaign of 1846. General Taylor's gallant army com- ITS CHANGE OF PLANS. 465 menced its march from Corpus Christi. Matamoras was taken. The brilliant battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma were won. The army advanced to Camargo, and at length stormed and took the well-defended walls of Monterey. But had all this series of successes availed any thing ? Were the enemy disposed to peace 1 Not in the least. In vain had Taylor waved his banners along the Rio Grande, and sounded his bugles amidst the sum- mits of the Sierra Madre. In vain had he conquered on hard-fought fields, and stormed almost invincible battle- ments. The army was still separated by hundreds of miles from the heart of the enemy's country ; who, secure in his capital, smiled at this distant war, and made prepa- rations for more vigorous defence. It was in the autumn of 1846, when Taylor's victories were yet fresh, that the administration felt constrained, by a political necessity, to change the plan and seat of the war, lest it should be indefinitely prolonged, at an indefinite expense. It was in November, 1846, that Secretary Marcy com- municated to General Scott, officially, the President's order to repair to Mexico, take command of the troops there, and operate on the Gulf coast. In this order, Mr. Marcy said that it was not proposed to control General Scott ; but that he should be left to prosecute the object as '* his judgment, under all the circumstances, shall dictate."^ This discretionary power required that Scott should ar- range and direct the preparations of the army, so as to secure final success in the distant and dangerous cam- paign in the heart of an enemy's country, of which but ' Marcy's Order, 23(i of November, 1846. 80 466 scott's sagacity^and judgment. little was known, and which was continually filled with a larger army than the United States had heretofore ever maintained. Nor was this all. The supposed invincible castle of San Juan de Ulloa must be captured, the enemy beaten from point to point of strong positions, and his numerous and well-appointed army driven back to the gates of the capital, before the capital could be besieged, and peace forced, by its surrender. Scott foresaw all the difficult task placed before him. His spirit rose equal to the occasion, and he devised, directed, and secured the performance of even the details of the numerous arrange- ments which such an extensive plan required. Two qual- ities, which belong only to minds of the highest executive order, are possessed by him in large measure : the sagacity to foresee what means and instruments are re- quired to fulfil the end, and the judgment to select the proper rrten to use those means and instruments. These qualities he immediately brought to bear with singular success. The amount of munitions and materials requisite for the campaign ; the proper kind of provisions to supply the army in that climate ; the proper equipage ; the surf- boats, for landing ; the siege-train, which would be needed in the valley of Mexico ; all these and numerous other details were attended to by him before he left the city of Washington, These details were so accurately arranged, that there was nothing wanting to their completeness, when, in the coming year, they were actually employed in the support, progress, comfort, and conquests of the army in Mexico. In obtaining the proper information and availing himself of valuable ideas. General Scott never disdained the sug- gestions of even the youngest officer. Always generous HIS PLAN OF THE CAMPAIGN. 467 and high-minded, he sought to develop talent, even in the humblest of his subordinates, and to make all classes of mind and experience useful to the general end. In the choice of his staff and superior officers, he was equally discreet. He knev;^ the importance of the object, and he adapted his men and measures to prevent the possi- bility of failure. The engineer and topographical corps, the inspectors and adjutants, the generals of brigade, and, in fine, all upon whose skill and fidelity much depended, were men of disciplined minds or much experience — men who could be charged with neither want of talent nor want of knowledge, in their respective departments. It was this fact which caused a writer from Puebla to say, that while the appearance of the American army presented nothing uncommon or superior, it was evident its victories were chiefly due to the superior skill and experience of its officers. Thus had Scott made every needed and practicable prep- aration. To this must be added a feasible and sagacious plan, looking not merely to victory, but to the consequences of victory, which in this case was to force a peace. The campaign of the Rio Grande had been tried, and brought no peace. It was evident the enemy must be conquered in his capital. The plan of the campaign comprehended the landing of an army sufficiently strong, in the judgment of the general, to overcome all obstacles and vanquish all opposing forces, on the coast of Mexico, at or near Vera Cruz ; capture that city and its castle ; thence proceed on the National Road to Perote, Jalapa, Puebla, and finally the city of Mexico — if peace should not be made before the conquest of that city. This plan had the superior advantage over 468 A SERIES OF VICTORIES all other plans, if successful, of penetrating to the very centre of the nation, capturing its strong places, destroy- ing its munitions of war, possessing its richest cities, and finally leaving the enemy almost without resources. The result corresponded with the plan. The thing intended was done, and peace was the fruit of victory. In the pre- ceding pages, we have traced, step by step, the complete execution, in detail, of this whole plan, and the final accomplishment of all the objects contemplated. The army was assembled at the island of Lobos. Every man w^as safely landed in surf-boats, at Vera Cruz — an enter- prise which is seldom accomplished without loss by the best-appointed armies of Europe. A siege-train was landed, with all its munitions, in perfect order. The city of Vera Cruz was regularly invested by trenches. The castle of San Juan de Ulloa was bombarded. The castle and the city surrendered. Over the heavy sands, and through the thick bushes which beset them, the army marched on. The heavy cannon and mortars were dragged along. The battle of Cerro Gordo is fought and won. The Mexican army flies in disorder. Jalapa surrenders. La Hoya is abandoned. The strong castle of Perote, with its immense supply of all the munitions of war, sur- renders. At length Puebla is taken, and the army rests a while from its fatigue. Again it resumes its triumphant march, and the valley of Mexico, with all its splendor and beauty, soon appears before the eyes of the astonished soldier. From the crest of the Anhuac range of mountains he looks down upon that splendid vision, which seems more like the creations of fancy than the realities of earth. In the midst of the valley is a beautiful city, surrounded by shady paseos, IN RAPID SUCCESSION. 469 bright fields, and picturesque haciendas. There is the Lake Tezcuco, shaded by floating clouds ; while beyond and above rise the snowy summits of volcanic mountains, glowing in the rays of the sun, while they shade the plain below.' Suddenly did this view burst upon the army ; but the soldier passes on. New fields must be won before that city is his. Chalco and its lake appears. He still presses on, till, at last, he encamps in San Augustin. Then come the glorious 19th and 20th of August. Fields are crimson with blood ; batteries are stormed ; fortresses carried ; till at length the American army inscribes upon its banners, in vivid colors, the victories of Contreras, An- TONiA, and Churubusco. Again there is a pause. Scott, whose march is a continued triumph, waits for the offer of peace. He desires that no more battles may be fought, if they must be won at the expense of so much blood. The army has won laurels enough. Let humanity demand the rest. The pause and tlie parley are in vain. Other battles must be won. Molino del Rey, Chapultepec, and the gates of Belen and San Cosmo remain to offer new glories to the conquering American. At last Mexico itself is taken, and the last battle is fought in its streets ! Eight battles gloriously won ; two cities besieged and taken. Two castles and numerous strongholds, with thousands of prisoners, and an immense quantit}'' of all the munitions of war, were the immediate trophies and results of that w^onderful campaign, which, commencing on the 7th of March, at the landing at Vera Cruz, termi- nated on the 17th of September, in the city of Mexico. ^ Captain Lyon's Journal of a Tour in Mexico. 470 But the immediate trophies and victories of the cam- paign, however brilliant and admirable, were less impor- tant than the ultimate results to this country and the world. The campaign of Scott in Mexico conquered peace. It did more. It restored good feehngs to both countries, and gave order and confidence to vanquished Mexico. It added to our own country the immense terri- tories of Cahfornia, Utah, and New Mexico. It opened a new and vast field to American enterprise. It has devel- oped the marvellous gold mines of the Sierra Nevada, whose overflowing wealth pours into all the channels of commerce, and quickens the energies of industry. It has given us a coast and ports on the Pacific, whence we look out on the islands of the sea, and can hold intercourse with the nations of Asia. A new era opens on the hills and valleys of our Western wilderness. Soon, a wilder- ness no longer, they will bloom with the roseate hues of civilization, and be filled with a people breathing the air of liberty, and diffusing light through the regions of darkness ! Such were the direct results of Scott's campaign — victory, peace, and empire. One thing only we note beyond the even course of this narrative. In all the arrangements, all the contests — in all the wide field of action we have described, there ivas no failure. Even accidents, such as often mar the hap- piest plans, seemed here to have forgotten their customary office. The army was, indeed, long cut off from its com- munications ; it was delayed at Puebla for want of rein- forcements ; 'it was delayed by the first negotiations ; but still it marched on — still victory attended its banners, and all things conspired to give it a glorious fortune. ELOQUENT TRIBUTE BY GEN. CASS.. 471 Scott demonstrated in this campaign that his genius was equal to devising the best of plans ; his administrative talent adapted to securing the best means ; and his energy in action capable of carrying his designs into execution, and giving complete success to every enterprise. He left nothing undone which it was his duty to accomplish ; and has left nothing for history to record but a series of illus- trious triumphs, achieved without a single failure — without a single act of inhumanity — without a single shade of any kind upon his fair renown. Such success is rare in any nation,- and in any pursuit.. It can only be attributed to some remarkable gifts of mind, as well as to an extraor- dinary measure of Providential favor. It was in reference to this triumphant march from Vera Cruz to Mexico, that General Cass, in the United States Senate, pronounced the following eloquent and beautiful tribute : " The movement of our army from Puebla was one of the most romantic and remarkable events which ever oc- curred in the military annals of our country. " Our troops did not, indeed, burn their fleet, like the first conquerors of Mexico ; for they needed not to gather courage from despair, nor to stimulate their resolution by destroying all hopes of escape. But they voluntarily cut off all means of communication with their own country, by throwing themselves among the armed thousands of another, and advancing with stout hearts, but feeble num- bers, into the midst of a hostile territory. The uncer- tainty which came over the public mind, and the anxiety everywhere felt, when our gallant little army disappeared from our view, will not be forgotten during the present generation. There was a universal pause of expectation 472 TWO PARALLELS TO SCOTT's MARCH — hoping, but still fearing ; and the eyes of twenty mil- hons of people were anxiously fixed upon another country, which a little band of its arnned citizens had invaded. A veil concealed them fron:i our view. They were lost to us for fifty days ; for that period elapsed from the time when we heard of their departure from Puebla, till accounts reached us of the issue of the movement. The shroud which enveloped them then gave way, and we discovered our glorious flag wavmg in the breezes of the capital, and the city itself invested by our army."^ There are but two passages in modern history which present parallels to the march of Scott from Vera Cruz to Mexico. These are the first conquest of Mexico by Cor- tez, and the other is the campaign of Napoleon in Egypt. Each of these has a stronfy resemblance to the second o conquest of Mexico by Scott. In the march of Cortez, the observer is struck by the smallness of numbers in the Spanish invaders — the contrasted multitude of those op- posed to them — the desperate energy of Cortez, which destroyed retreat, and threw him unaided amidst unknown enemies — and, finally, the novelty, the mystery, and the romance which then threw a charm of marvellous interest over the New World. The reader will at first be inclined to say, that these incidents have been unequalled by any thing in the cam- paign of Scott. There are, however, striking similarities ; and to the apparently greater marvels in the march of Cortez, there are parallel incidents in that of Scott. If the troops of Cortez were cut off by design, as well as Providence, from the distant shores of their mother coun- ' Speech of Lewis Caes in the Senate, January 3, 1848. FROM VERA CRUZ TO MEXICO. 473 try, there was nearly two months, as stated by Senator Cass, when the army of Scott was cut off from its depots, by total inabihty to perform the double operation of ad- vancing on the enemy, and keeping open its communica- tions. Its skilful and daring commander chose the for- mer, not by any rash reliance on the chances of good for- tune, but by deliberate calculation on the valor and disci- pline of his troops, and the superior skill of their oJSicers. If the band of Cortez appears comparatively small, it must be observed that it had two advantages, in the relative contest, over the army of Scott. The difference between the military science of the Spaniards and that of the Aztecs was far greater than that between the Anglo-Americans and the Mexicans of this day. The latter are students in the same military school with the English, the French, and the Americans. The castle of San Juan, the batteries of Cerro Gordo, the defences of Churubusco, and the ramparts of Chapultepec, all bear witness to the fact that they were well acquainted with the modern science of war, and made no mean use of their knowledge in defence of their native land. Another and the greatest advantage possessed by the army of Cortez was, that he divided his enemies. He succeeded in convincing many that he was their destined conqueror, invincible to all opposition. They joined his standard, and he entered the city at the head of ten thousand Tlascalan troops ! Such was not the case with Scott. He met troops disciplined in the science of modern warfare. He received no aid from his hostile opponents. He entered the city of Mexico amidst the fires of both citizen and soldier, rode into the Plaza with no troops but his own, and waved on its palace walls no banner but that of the victorious American ! 474 SCOTT AND NAPOLEON COMPARED. Scott's conquest of Mexico bears a strong resemblance, also, to Napoleon's expedition to Egypt, but was unlike it both in conduct and results. Napoleon left France at the head of forty thousand men, crossed the seas in ships, was cut off by the destruction of his navy in Aboukir Bay, en- tered the ancient cities of Egypt, and conquered on the shores of the Nile. At length, tired of battle in Egypt, he left his army to his subordinates, and returned, like Caesar, to become the Dictator of France. No love of peace adorned his character ; no gentle humanity graced his conduct ; no strong devotion to liberty restrained his am- bition, or made him obedient to the claims of duty or of law. His generals, left to pursue a various fortune, were at length driven from the land which they came to conquer. Scott also embarked in ships ; was cut off from his depots of supply ; was engaged against an enemy better acquainted with the art of war than the Egyptians ; but pursued his even way, victorious in battle, yet using every effort to procure peace and to soften the asperities of war. No cruelties are permitted — no wanton insults given. He returns not till the conquest is achieved, and his part fully performed in all that grand drama of action. Such was the second conquest of Mexico by Winfield Scott. Is there one who delights in the sound of glorious victory, and will not say that his victories were complete, and his action honorable ? Is there one whose heart is pained with every sound of war, and will not say that he performed the painful duties of war with the strictest re- gard to the claims of humanity, and with the utmost solicitude for^he return of peace ? * SCOTT AS A CIVILIAN. 475 CHAPTER XXVII. Scott's Ideas of Mlitary Occupation. — His Civil Administration. — Gathers Statistics. — Reports on the Coinage. — Prepares to occupy the Country. — Secret Service Fund. — His Accounts. — Military Asylum. — Corre- spondence with the Archbishop of Mexico. — Military Controversy. — Court of Inquiry. — Suspended from his Command. — Returns Home. On the 18th of September, the valley of Mexico re- posed in peace. The storm of war had in a great degree passed over. A few dark clouds and an occasional flash of lightning were alone visible on the horizon. The vic- tories of Scott had accomplished their object. Peace was surely though slowly approaching. There was yet another task to be performed — to organize a civil administration under military authority, capable of maintaining the civil functions of the country. This was no easy affair ; and for the next five months, Scott applied his mind to this object with energy and industry. This part of his con- duct, though brilliant with no glare of battle, is illustrative of his character and qualifications as a civilian. It ex- hibits him actually performing, and fully adequate to, all the duties of an eminent statesman. Left in the sole com- mand not only of the city of Mexico, but of all the rich provinces around, with the Mexican government scattered and prostrate, and uncertain how long this slate of things might continue, Scott was now obliged to consider how, if war continued, the country was to be occupied, and how the army was to derive a revenue from the districts in their occupation. 476 VIEWS OF mili'];ary occupation. In a letter^ written by the War Department, after having heard of the victories of Contreras and Churubusco, Scott is told to levy on the Mexicans contributions for the sup- port of the army, in every way consistent with the usages of civilized warfare. In this he is left to his own discre- tion. The Secretary says : " Left as you are to your own judgment as to your military operations, the fullest confidence is entertained that you will conduct them in the most effective way to bring about the main and ultimate object of the war — namely, to induce the rulers and people of Mexico to desire and consent to such terras of peace as we have a right to ask and expect." Left with this discretion, there were two things to be considered — the military occupation of the country, and the assessment of contributions. Scott's general vie\^s of a military occupation in Mexico were given in several subsequent dispatches. In one of these he gives his opinion, that no annexation could take place without occu- patioii, and thus describes the character of the Mexican rulers : " Annexation and military occupation would be, if we maintain the annexation, one and the same thing, as to the amount of force to be employed by us ; for if, after the formal act, by treaty or otherwise, we should withdraw our troops, it cannot be doubted that all Mexico, or rather the active part thereof, would again relapse into a perma- nent state of revolution, beginning with one against annex- ation. The great mass of this people have always been passive under every form of government that has prevailed in the country ; and the turbulent minority, divided into ^ Marcy's Latter, dated-October 6, 1847. MILITARY OCCUPATION. 477 ins and outs, particularly the military demagogues, are equally incapable of self-government, and delight in nothing but getting power by revolution, and abusing that power when obtained."^ Military occupation, then, was the sole resource of the conquerors, should the war be continued. Accordingly, Scott was directed by the War Department to dispose his troops in such a manner as to occupy as many of the principal places as possible. Ten days before the letter quoted above, Scott issued his order^ announcing the in- tended occupation of Mexico, in the following terms : " This army is about to spread itself over, and to occupy the republic of Mexico, until the latter shall sue for peace on terms acceptable to the government of the United States." At the same time, he proceeded at once to take posses- sion of the revenues of the districts occupied, for the sup- port of the army, and the maintenance of the American government over that country. In the same *' order," he forbid the payment of any taxes or dues (which were heretofore collectable) to the Mexican government, after the occupation of the '* principal point or points in any- State, as all such taxes and dues will be demanded of the proper authorities, for the support of the army of occupa- tion." As Mexico, Vera Cruz, Puebla, and Tamaulipas were so occupied, all taxes were considered as due and payable to the army in those States, after the 1st of De- cember. The exportation of gold and silver in " bars or ingots" was forbidden ; for the reason, that when the * Scott's Dispatch, dated December 25, 1847. ' Order I^o. 376, dated December 15, 1847. 478 SYSTEM of REVENUE. precious metals are exported in hulk, without being con- verted into a currency, they are of no practical use to the people of the country in their domestic exchanges. The 7'ents, as they were called, of tobacco, playing-cards, and stamped paper, which had been allowed heretofore by the government, were offered to the highest bidders. In fine, this " general order" from the commander of the army marked out an entire system of finance for the con- quered provinces of Mexico.^ This was, in fact, to solve a problem of great importance to our government, for the support of the army in Mexico had become an exhausting burden on the Treasury Department, and was a source of anxiety to the administration. While so successfully estalDlishing a system of revenue for Mexico, General Scott's correspondence with the War Department shows his high and delicate sense of the limits which civilization, properly understood, places to the exactions of an army. In his letter to Secretary Marcy, of December 25, 1847, he says : " It will be perceived that I do not propose to seize the ordinary state or city revenues, as that would be, in my humble judgment, to make war on civilization ; as no community can escape absolute anarchy without civil government, and all government must have some revenue for its support. I shall take care, however, to see that the means collected within any particular State or city, for that purpose, are moderate and reasonable."^ Thus, in the midst of an enemy's country, where, ac- cording to the policy which had governed the Clives, Napoleons, and Bluchers of the world, he had a military * See Order 376, December 15, 1S47. 2 Scott's Dispatch, No. 41, December 25, 184Y. COLLECTS REVENUES. " 479 right to make what exactions he pleased, Scott guarded, with scrupulous care, the rights of civilization. In the above paragraph he states clearly the principles which originate and support civil government. There is no escape from anarchy, that wild beast of society, but by civil government ; and there can be no civil government without regular and adequate means of support. In the same dispatch he states the manner in which the revenue is to be collected. He says : "Each State will be required to collect the amount claimed, according to the federal assessment for the year 1843, under certain penal- ties, which may be the sehzure, without payment, of the supplies needed for the support of the occupation, and particularly the property of the State functiona'-fes, legis- lative and executive, with the imprisonment of their per- sons, &c., &c., &c. The fear is those functionaries may abdicate, and leave the States without governments. In such event, the like penalties will be, so far as practi- cable, enforced." Still intent on the means of peace, he says, in reference to the execution of his plan : " The success of the system — on the details of which I am now with ample materials employed — depends on our powers of conciliation. With steady troops, I should not doubt the result ; but the great danger lies in the want of that quality on the part of the new reinforcements, including the recruits of the old regiments." In one word, Scott w^as bent on the concilia- tion of the Mexican nation by the restoration of order, the restraint of his troops, the prevalence of law, and an exhi- bition of all the genial qualities of high civilization. It ^ Scott's Dispatch, N'o. 41, December 25, 1847. 21 480 SCOTT gathe'rs statistics. will here be remarked, that none but one who had won his right by victories, attended by no failure, could safely undertake such a task. In any other, it would be regarded as timidity ; as the exhibition of weakness, rather than of humanity. It was success in battle which gave Scott the power to become the conciliator of Mexico. In the mean while, from September to December, he had been acting the part of a prudent and sagacious statesman. He had been gathering statistics of the country, and especially had procured and sent on to Washington a valu- able memoir on the coinage and exportation of bars and ingots of silver.^ Six days after his dispatch of the 25th of December, Scott issued an order levying three millions of dollars on the several States of Mexico, and giving the details, at length, of the manner in which it should be paid.^ This was just quadruple the ordinary dii'ect taxes ; but, on llie other hand, the transit duties payable at the cities were abolished. This order was accompanied by a circular to the commanders of the military departments, instructing them to conciliate rather than enforce payment, if possible. Force was «nly to be resorted to in case of extreme necessity. In the general order of the 31st of December, he says : " The American troops, in spreading themselves' over this republic, will take care to observe the strictest discipline and morals in respect to the persons and property of the country ; purchasing and paying for all necessaries and comforts they may require, and treating the unoffending inhabitants with forbearance and kindness." ' Executive Document, No. 60, page 105, year 1848. - Order 395, December 31, 1847. SCOTT CORRESPONDS WITH THE ARCHBISHOP. 481 Such were the measures taken by General Scott to support the American army in Mexico, while he observed all the humanity and consideration towards the citizens of that country which could have been observed by civil officers towards citizens of his own. In the six months during which he was commander in Mexico, after the storm of Chapultepec, he performed the several duties of general-in-chief, president of the country, and secretary of the treasury. His were not, indeed, the nominal titles to these offices of statesmen, but they were liis in sub- stance ; and that their functions were carefully and judi- ciously performed, the official records of our government amply prove. In the mean while, a correspondence took place between General Scott and the Archbishop of Mexico, in relation to the Mexican prisoners, honorable to the humanity of both. Archbishop Juan Manual addresses General Scott, November 5th, thus : "Ecclesiastical Government of the 1 " Archbishop of Mexico, >• "Mexico, Nov. 5, 1847. ) *' Most Excellent Sir — The respect which your Ex- cellency has manifested to the Mexican church (of which I am the unworthy head), in calling upon me, has induced me to take advantage of tlie favorable disposition of your Excellency, to ask a favor which will perpetuate your memory, and will make known to the faithful members of my diocese the feeling of benevolence which you entertain towards them. *' A multitude of fathers, wives, children, brothers, and other relations of the prisoners who are now confined un 31 482 GRANTS Hre REQUEST. der the order of your Excellency, loudly entreat their liberty ; and the prisoners themselves vehemently lament the many evils which their confinement has brought down upon their families, who depend upon them for subsist- ence, and who, consequently, are reduced to misery, and in many cases to an absolute state of indigence. Were there any important political reason why these prisoners should not be liberated, I should not have been so bold as to ask it ; but their number is small, and distributed, as they will be, in different parts of the republic, their im- portance must be insignificant. " I ask their liberty, not only because it is a duty of my office, but my heart also impels me to solicit some real consolation for these unfortunate men, whom the fates of war have reduced to so lamentable a condition." General Scott received this communication with great respect, and stated that at Vera Cruz and Cerro Gordo the Mexican prisoners were promptly and cheeYfuWj pai'oled (that is, released on word of honor not to take up arms), but that they had repeatedly violated their paroles ; that of the officers taken in the valley of Mexico, but one remained in confinement, and he only because he asserted his inten- tion to take up arms again ; and that in regard to certain propositions for the release of certain American prisoners taken from the army of the Rio Grande, he had received only evasive replies. Notwithstanding these things, how- ever. General Scott replies : " But the application of your grace comes to me under sanctions too high to be neglected. '* I therefore beg to say, that if your grace will have the goodness to appoint some dignitary of the church to visit PAROLES PHISONERS. 483 the Mexican prisoners of war (rank and file, or common men), now confined in this capital, and explain to them the customs and usages of war in such cases, viz. that prisoners, released on parole, are always put to death, if taken in arms against the same belligerents before being duly exchanged, and add the solemn admonition of the church against the violation of their paroles, I will imme- diately, under that holy sanction, cause the said prisoners to be released on parole, so that they may return to theii respective families, friends, and peaceful occupations." The Archbishop replies (December 16) that he will fulfil all the conditions ; and that he will " personally ad- minister the requisite oath.'" On the 22d of December, the Archbishop, in the pres- ence of Lieutenant-Colonel Hitchcock, Inspector-General, administered the oath to eight hundred men, who were released on parole. The period now approached when Scott was to be relieved {suspended) from the command in Mexico. His two last acts were, happily for him, and happily for the complete- ness of that fame which he and the country shared in common, the only two which remained for him to perform in Mexico, either in reference to his own character or his public duties. These were the settlement of his accounts, and the transmission of the Mexican propositions for peace. As a commander taking possession of a distant country, and having continual need of funds for contingent ser- vices, and for the unexpected and frequently pressing wants of the army, Scott, at different times, received and * Executive Document, N"o. 60 (1848), pages 1054-— lOS?. 484 SCOTT EXPENDS MONEY fOR SOLDIERs' COMFORTS expended large amounts of money. Much of this money was expended in services for which a detailed account ought not to be made pubhc. This is set down in gov- ernment accounts as a " secret service fund." In his letter of February 6, 1848, he says that certain "explanations" ought not to be reduced to writing ; but adds — " I may, however, briefly add, that I have never tempted the honor, conscience, or patriotism of any man, but have held it as lawful in morals, as in war, to purchase valuable informa- tion or services voluntarily tendered me." For these secret services he paid about sixty thousand dollars, in- cluding the service of a " native spy company." In this letter, he states that he had charged himself with the amount of money received at Washington ; the $150,000 levied upon Mexico for the army, in lieu of pillage ; for the proceeds of captured tobacco, and other smaller sums ; for all of which he will " strictly account." Among the expenditures, he enumerates the fol- lowing : Blankets and shoes {gratuitously distributed) .... $63,745 Hospital comforts (extra). 10,000 Each crippled man, discharged or furloughed. . . . 10.00 Secret services some 60,000 After saying thus much, he incloses to the Paymaster- General a draft^ for one hundred thousand dollars, which, * We put this draft on record, in memory of one of the most honorable transactions of the army : " CiTT OF Mexico, Jan. 21, 1848. " At ten days after sight, for value received, please pay this my second of exchange (the first and third being unpaid), to the order of Major- General Winfield Scott, one hmidi-ed thousand dollars, on account of the MONEY FOR A MILITARY ASYLUM. 485 by special request of General Scott, became the founda- tion for the Army Asylum Fund, as established by act of Congress, in the session of 1850-51. Since the occupation of the city of Mexico, one of Scott's desires was, by conciliation, by the re-establish- ment of order, the occupation of the country, and, in fine, by all honorable means, to induce a peace. There was reason to suppose this could be done, if the Mexican gov- ernment itself could be protected against the violence of the military and the mob. On the 11th of November, General Anaya had been elected president, and Pena y Pena secretary of state. A commission was immediately appointed to negotiate peace. Mr. Trist, the American commissioner, had been recalled, but fortunately, as it turned out, had not left Mexico. On the 27th of November, Scott wrote to the War De- partment that the commissioners were understood to be present in ]Mexico ; and that he had informed the govern- ment at Queretaro that he would send home any corn- pay of the army, for which I am accountable to the treasury : payable at the Bank of America, city of New York, without further advice. " E. KIRBY, " Acting Chief of the Pay Department, " At the Head-quarters of the Army. " Brigadier-General N. Towson, " Paymaster-General U. S. Army, " Citv of Washington." (Endorsed.) " The Bank of America, city of New York, will phice the within amount to the credit of Armi/ Asylum, subject to the order of Congress. " WINFIELD SCOTT, " Major-Geueral, &c" 486 SCOTT SUSPENDED. munications looking to a renewal of negotiations. On the 2d of February, 1848, the treaty of peace was signed at Guadalupe by Trist and the Mexican commissioners. The last important dispatch of General Scott to the War Department was transmitted by the same express which carried to Washington the treaty of peace. Without probably any very prophetic calculations as to the con- currence of the two events, it happened, in the course of history, that when Scott had finished the last acts which he could perform, in securing to his country the fruits of victory, by the restoration of peace, that just then the order arrived which suspended him from the command of the army of Mexico, and summoned him to answer the cap- tious charges of inferiors, before a tribunal of inferiors ! He who had won the battle of Marathon was condemned as a criminal, and finally died in prison of the wounds re- ceived in battle !^ Scott was not condemned as a crimi- nal, nor imprisoned as a felon ; but he was made to feel that, in the estimation of his government, there was nothing in his eminent position, in his life of successful service, in his devotion to country, in his brilliant successes, and in his great renown, which should place him above the level, or beyond the reach of envious or malicious subordinates. On the 13th of January, 1848, Secretary Marcy ordered Scott " to turn over the command of the army to Major- General Butler, or, in his absence, to the highest in rank, W'ith the column under you." ^ Miltiades, who commanded in the battle of Marathon, and to whose glorious victory the Athenians ever after referred, was unsuccessful in an attack on the Isle of Paros, where he was wounded. He was charged by one Xanthippus with treachery, and condemned to death ; but finally died in prison of wounds received at Paros. COURT OF INQUIRY. 487 At the time this order was issued, the treaty of peace had not been signed, and the President could not be cer- tain that the war would not be continued. He suspended the most successful general of the age from a command in which his services were yet needed, to gratify the caprices of subordinates who chose to be displeased with his conduct ! The object and principles of the cabinet, in regard to the suspension of Scott, are, fortunately for the truth of history, recorded in the official correspondence of the War Department. On the 13th of January, 1848, another order was issued, directing Brevet Brigadier-General N. Towson, Paymaster-General, Brigadier- General Caleb Gushing, and Colonel E. G. W. Butler, of the 3d Dra- goons, to assemble at the castle of Perote, to inquire into the charges and allegations preferred by General Scolt against Major-General Pillow and Brevet Lieutenant- Colonel Duncan ; and " the charges, or matters of com- plaint, presented, by way of appeal, by Brevet Major- General Worth against Major-General Winfield Scott."^ The object, then, of suspending Scott, was to bring him before a court of inquiry composed of a Paymaster-General, a Brigadier of Volunteers, and a Colonel of Dragoons,^ to answer complaints made by a subordinate! What were those complaints ? It is unnecessary to enter into the details of the army controversy (confined chiefly to four or five officers) which unfortunately arose in the military camp of Scott, in order to understand the injustice and in- humanity with which the veteran commander of Mexico ^ Order IStli January, 1848. ^ Col. Belknap was substituted for Col. Butler. 488 CORRECTS OFFICIAL REPORTS. was treated. A single feature of the transaction will be sufficient to show the origin and character of the whole. The following sentence commences one of the paragraphs in Mr. Marcy's letter to Scott, dated 13th of January, 1848: *' Considering the nature and multiplicity of the matters embraced in the charges preferred against Major-General Pillow and Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan, especially the former (some of which are hardly consistent with your official reports and commendations)," &c. The official reports of Scott are here referred to, as in- consistent with some of the charges against these officers. This very fact illustrates the generous conduct of Scott towards them and others. In making up his reports, he assumed. <25> correct the reports of the commanders of dif- ferent detachments, and especially when they spoke of themselves. Such generosity is not always safe. Errors in the accounts of subordinates may sometimes occur, which require future correction. The official correspond- ence shows that, on the 2d of October, General Scott ad- dressed a note to General Pillow, calling his attention to certain material errors in the report of General Pillow, concerning his part in the battles of Mexico, and pointing out in what they consisted. The next day, General Pil- low acknowledges General Scott's kindness, speaks of his gratitude, and says he has ^^ no hesitation in correcting any thing in his report deemed erroneous." Two other notes w^ere written, which General Scott concludes with the remark, that the discrepancfes in their memory were so material, that he should forward the reports to Wash- ington with these notes. It thus appears there were errors in the reports of those whose accounts were received SECRETARY OF WAR WRITES A DEFENCE. 489 at first as entirely reliable. In that fact originated the controversy, which resulted in the court of inquiry. But upon what principle was General Scott held responsible to that court ? Why should he be tried for the errors of his subordinates ? What were the matters of complaint charged by General Worth ? They were simply that General Scott had refused to say whether he was the per- son referred to in a recent army order, and refused to for- ward complaints against himself to the War Department ! In whatever aspect they might be considered by a court, none of General Worth's " complaints" at all impeached Scott's capacity, integrity, or merit, as the commander of an army. Why, then, suspend him, while engaged in the duties of war ? General Worth, one of the most gallant officers of the army, and Colonel iDuncan, a distinguished soldier, have both passed beyond the tribunal of human praise or censure. We may safely assume, that a contro- versy with their commander about fields of glor}^, in which they had all a common share, would not have been con- tinued by them, if living. On the contrary, they would- have sought to freshen and deepen the laurels ; which, the greener they grew on the brows of Scott, the more they would bloom in their own fair fame. Their conduct may be attributed to the heat of passion, and allowed to pass in silence ; but that of the cabinet is not so easily excused. Mr. Marcy seems to have felt the necessity of defending the suspension of a commander under such circumstances, at the complaint of his inferior^ ; and, in his letter of the 13th, makes an argument in his defence. It appeared in the sequel, however, that the cabinet had greatly underrated the sensibilities of the people to this species of wrong. The whole country was struck with 490 . scott's.letter. astonishment at the suspension of Scott. The people could not realize the propnet}^ asserted by the War De- partment, of holding a patriotic and successful general, charged with no neglect of duty, to account, at any mo- ment, to the captious complaints of inferior officers. They had no sympathy with that cold indifference which over- looked his forty years of service, and his high renown, in a pretended equality with his subordinates ! There was a universal conviction that a positive injustice and an un- deserved insult had been offered to the conqueror of Mexico. Nor was it unfelt by him, nor altogether unan- ticipated. In his dispatch of the 25th of July he had alluded to the possibility, that when in two months the army should have entered Mexico, he might be re- called.' With a profound feeling of injustice — one of the keenest wounds which humanity ever suffers — he thus writes on the 9th of Februar}^ 1848, after reading in the newspapers an unofficial account that he was superseded : " I make only a passing comment upon these unofficial announcements ; learning with pleasure, through the same sources, that I am to be superseded by Major-General Butler. Perhaps, after trial, I may be permitted to return to the United States. ]\Iy poor services with this gallant army are at length requited as I have long been led to ex- pect they would be." If this natural outburst of feeling contains a sharper charge -against the justice and candor of the cabinet than it deserved, it is due to that keen sensibility to personal wrong which is ever one of the qualities of an honorable ^ Executive Documeat.Xo. 60 (1848), 1060. SeOTT BEFORE THE COURT. 4 1 mind, and which was now made poignant by an official attempt to degrade his services and his position. Scott quietly delivered over the army to the command of General Butler, and took his place before the court of inquiry on a level with his factious accusers ; as if he had never commanded a victorious army, or won laurels whose verdure will quicken with time, and be deposited among the memorials of recorded glory. The court of inquiry met in Mexico, and sat several weeks, engaged in examining many w'itnesses, in respect to some of the minor details of the war ; especially the part taken by General Pillow in the battles of the valley of Mexico ; and as to the authors of certain letters pub- lished in newspapers, signed " Veritas''' and " Leonidas" and generally attributed to that officer. In this court General Scott was present, cross-examining the witnesses with great acumen, but generously conceding every fact which, being true, was fairly applicable to the case. At length the court adjourned in the month of April, to meet again in Washington. The meeting was indeed held ; but, in the mean time, the war ended, and the business of the court of inquiry became so obviously odious to the people, that the cabinet were willing to let its proceedings drop into a speedy and deserved obhvion. The court dropped its inquiries, and simply reported a voluminous mass of testi- mony relating to the affairs of the w^ar, which may be of great use to the future historian, if the records are slill preserved. The idea of visiting a palpable degradation upon the man whose conduct w^as faultless, whose character was pure, and whose successes were altogether unparalleled, was not only odious, but absolutely detestable to the people. 492 PEOPLE INDIGNANT. This feeling became general, and roused an indignation in the minds of many, even of those who were the politi- cal friends of the administration, which contributed not a little to its subsequent downfall. The spirit of injustice does not belong to the American people. They are ready to contribute their full share of praise to those who, on their part, have contributed to the glory and grandeur of their country. Scott having waited patiently upon the sittings of the court of inquiry, at length embarked in the " Petersburg" vessel for his home in Elizabethtown, New Jersey, where he arrived on the 20th of May, 1848, intending quietly to remain a short time in that calm domestic retirement, happier than any field of war can ever be, however glo- rious or successful — however much coveted now, or re- nowned hereafter. Scott's return. 493 CHAPTER XXVIII. General Scott's Return. — His Reception at New York. — Arrangements of the Council. — MiKtary Procession. — Address of the Mayor and Aldermen. — His Replies, — Presentation of a Medal. — General Mor- ris's Song sung in the Broadway Tabernacle. — Scott's Return to Wash- ington. — His Public Honors. — His Journey to the West, on the Board of Military Asylums. — His Public and Private Character. Scott, on his return from Mexico, had respectfully declined the honor of a reception at New Orleans, stating that he was under the displeasure of the executive.' On the 20th of May, he arrived in a private vessel at Eliza- bethtown. New Jersey, the residence of his family, having carefully avoided all the cities, and refused to join in any public ceremonial. In the mean while, however, the cor- poration of New York having learned his departure from Mexico, and his probable arrival at Elizabethtown, deter- mined that he who had so often resided among them, who had signalized the Niagara frontier with the glory of vic- tory, and who was now returning from a foreign land crowned with the honors of successful war, but over- clouded with the shadows of executive displeasure, should be received in the commercial metropolis of the nation in a manner to signalize his merit and their gratitude. . On the 10th of May, 1848, Mr. Havemeyer, Mayor of New York, addressed a message to the Common Coun- cil, stating that information had been received that Major- * Scott's Letter to Mr. Grossman, Mayor of New Orleans, dated May 1, 494 General Scott had embarked on his return home, and he submitted the propriety of "receiving him in a manner commensurate with a proper appreciation of his gallant achievements, and those of his companions in arms." On the reception of this message, resolutions in conformity therevi^th were, on motion of Mr. Crolius, passed by the Board of Aldermen, and concurred in by the Assistants.' On the 21st of May, General Scott arrived in the brig *' Petersburg," and immediately proceeded to Elizabeth- town. The next day(22d) he was waited upon by a com- mittee of the Common Council of New York, and accepted their invitation to visit and receive the hospitalities of New York. As the reception of General Scott in the great city of New York was among the most interesting and magnifi- cent ceremonials our country has witnessed, it is the proper province of history to record so much of the proceedings as will illustrate the character of the times, and the high estimation in which the hero of Mexico was held by his fellow-citizens. ^ Thursday, the 25th of May, was the day appointed for the reception. The general was to be escorted from Elizabethtown by the committee, the Common Council, and the civic authorities. He was to review the New York division of troops, in four brigades ; be addressed at the City Hall by public functionaries ; and finally escorted to his quarters. In conformity with this plan, all arrangements were made by the military and civil authori- ties. Orders were issued by Major-General Sandford, and the commanders of brigades and regiments, to parade, on ^ Report of the Joint Special Committee of the Common Council. franklin's address. 495 the morning of the 25th, in fall uniform and equipment. This division comprehends twelve regiments, and is one of the best uniformed and trained corps in the United States. The day was an auspicious one. A cloudless sky, a brilliant sun, and streets lined and crowded -with dense masses of people eager to behold and receive the gallant and successful hero returning from the scene of his glory, seemed an auspicious augury of the welcome which would now greet him, and the fame which coming posterity will gladly bestow. Cannon were fired from the Battery, the national flag floated from the City Hall, and streamers waved from the shipping in port. The steamer St. Nicholas, crowded with public functionaries and citizens, proceeded gayly on her way to Elizabethtown. There they were met by the corporate authorities of the borough, who, by their mayor, Mr. Sanderson, committed Generaf Scott, with suitable remarks, to the charge of the Common Council of New York. When the cheering had subsided, Morris Franklin, Esq., president of the Board of Aldermen, addressed General Scott in an excellent address, of which the fol- lowing are passages : " In contemplating upon the thrilling events which have characterized your history, we find so much to excite our admiration, and to call into action the patriotic emotions of the heart, that we feel proud, as American citizens, that among the many illustrious names which now are, or may hereafter be emblazoned upon the escutcheons of our country, yours will appear in bold relief, as among her noblest and most honored sons ; for whether upon the plains of Chippewa, or Lundy's Lane — whether at the 496 scott's.reply. sortie of Fort Erie, or on the heights of Queenstown — whether landing on the shores of Vera Cruz, or bravely- contending at the pass of Cerro Gordo — whether entering in triumph the capital of Mexico, and there planting the American standard upon its battlements — whether in the warrior's tent, at the solemn hour of midnight, arranging the operations of the coming day, while your faithful sol- diers were slumbering around you, dreaming of their friends and their homes — or whether attending upon the wounded, the dying, and the dead, regardless of yourself in 3^our anxiety for others — we find all those characteristics which mark the true dignity of man, and bespeak the accomplished and victorious chieftain. " Under circumstances such as these, and fresh from the well-fought battle-fields of our country, we now wel- come you within our midst, as one worthy to receive and forever wear that victorious wreath which the American people have entwined to decorate and adorn your brow ; and we cannot omit, upon this occasion, to bear our testi- mony to the valor, bravery, and skill displayed by that noble band of our adopted fellow-citizens, who, side by side with the natives of our soil, stood bravely by the common standard of our country, or fell nobly struggling in its defence. Peace be to the ashes of those who thus sacrificed their lives, for they died as brave men love to die — fighting the battles of their country, and expiring in the very arms of victory." Mr. Franklin's address was received with enthusiastic huzzas. General Scott made the following repl}?-, which, with the others made in New York, are inserted here, for the purpose of showing the character of his addresses SCOTT SPEAKS OF ADOPTED CITIZENS. 497 when drawn from him on pubhc occasions, and the senti- ments he felt and uttered, in reference to the acts and conduct of the army. After stating that he had " surrendered himself a pris- oner" to his fellow-citizens of New York, who had deter- mined to honor a public servant, and, without measuring his little merit, had also determined to do it *' in a manner worthy of herself and of the United States," he pro- ceeded : " If I had looked to considerations merely personal, I should have declined the high distinction tendered me ; but I knew I was to be received by you as the representa- tive of that victorious army it was so lately my good for- tune to command — an army that has carried the glory of American arms to a height that has won universal admira- tion, and the gratitude of all hearts at home. " A very large portion of the rank and file of that army, regulars and -volunteers, went forth from the city of New York, to conquer or to die. It was my happy lot to wit- ness their invincible valor and prowess. All dangers, dif- ficulties, and hardships were met and conquered. *' You have been pleased, sir, to allude to our adopted citizens. I can say that the Irish, the Germans, the Swiss, the French, the Britons, and other adopted citizens, fought in the same ranks, under the same colors, side by side with native-born Americans-^exhibiting like courage and efficiency, and uniting at every victory in the same en- thusiastic shouts in honor of our flag and country. From Vera Cruz to the capital of Mexico, there was one gen- erous rivalry in heroic daring and brilliant achievement. Let those who witnessed that career of valor and patriot- ism say, if they can, what race, according to numbers, 32 498 LANDING AT 'castle GARDEN. contributed most to the general success and glory of the campaign. On the many hard-fought battle-fields there was no room for invidious distinction. All proved them- selves the faithful sons of our beloved country, and no spectator could fail to dismiss any lingering prejudice he might have entertained as to the comparative merits of Americans by birth and Americans by adoption. *' As the honored representative of all, I return among you to bear testimony in favor of my fellow-brothers in the field, the army of Mexico ; and I congratulate you and them that the common object of their efforts, and of your hopes — the restoration of peace — is in all probability now attained." As the boat passed on from Elizabethtown to the city, large numbers of people on the shore saluted the com- pany, with their distinguished companion, by waving handkerchiefs. At Sailors' Snug Harbor they received the united cheers of its inmates ; and at Castle Garden, the general landed under a national salute, fired by the 4th Artillery, under the direction of General Morris. The mayor of the city being absent, Morris Franklin, Acting Mayor, again addressed General Scott. After congratulating him on his return to his home and friends, he said : " And now, fellow-citizens, you have before you the hero of Chippewa, of Queenstown, of Lundy's Lane, and the conqueror of Vera Cruz and the capital of Mexico, and it remains for you to say whether you will receive and welcome him as the guest of our patriotic and noble city ; and for the purpose of testing this, I propose that all who are in favor of receiving him as such, will signify by say- ing aye." MILITARY PROCESSION. 499 One universal aye burst from the immense assemblage; after which, Mr. Franklin, turning to the general, con- tinued as follows : " General Scott — You are now the guest of the city. You have surrendered to the entreaties of your fellow- citizens, and we shall celebrate the victory in such a way as will satisfy you and them, that we appreciate the ser- vices of one of the best and noblest sons connected with the great American family." This address was received with great cheering, and replied to by General Scott briefly and happily. He was then received at the outer entrance of the Garden by Major-General Sandford, with his staff, and proceeded to review the line of military on the Battery. The great- est enthusiasm was manifested by the several regiments. Cheer on cheer burst forth, in which officers and men joined, in token of their admiration for the hero of Mexico. After the review was ended, the military formed in column, and the procession moved through the streets in the order of the programme : PROGRAMME. The First Division of New York State Militia, under the com- mand of Major-General Sandford, acting as the escort to Major- General Scott, in the following order: THE FIRST BRIGADE, Under the command of Brigadier-General Storms. THE SECOND BRIGADE, Under the command of Brigadier-General Morris. THE THIRD BRIGADE, Under the command of Brigadier-General Hall. THE FOURTH BRIGADE, Under tlie command of Brigadier-General Ewen. 500 SCOTT ADDRESSES THE THE CIVIC PROCESSION FORMED AS FOLLOWS: Ex-President of the United States. Governor and Lieutenant-Governor of the State of New York. Senators and Representatives in Congress. Senators of this State. Members of Assembly. Officers of the Array and Navy of the U. States. Jomt Special Committee of the Common Council. His Honor the Mayor. Members of the Common Council of the City of New York. Heads of Departments of the City Government. Collector of the Port of New York. Surveyor of the Port of New York. Naval Officer. Postmaster of the City of New York. United States District Attorney. Marshal of the United States for this District. Citizens in carriages and on horseback. In the Park, he received a marching salute from the whole division of military, and thence proceeded to the Governor's Room. From every balcony, stoop, wrindow, and house-top in the streets through which the procession moved, there went up the warmest welcomings from both sexes and all ages. In the Governor's Room, he was again addressed briefly by Alderman Crolius, to whom he replied in the follow- ing terms : Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Common Council : — My obligations to the city of New Y'ork are known to you all ; but the kind reception of the Common Council, and of the inhabitants of this great emporium of commerce, has bound me to it forever. Had my life been twice as long — had my services been treble what they have been — had my sufferings been multiplied, no matter by what figure — all would have been more than COMMON COUNCIL OF NEW YORK. 501 compensated by the generous welcome you have given me." He then said, that " since the termination of tlie war with Great Britain, now thirty-four years, I have resided a portion of every year, with the exception of four or five, with you. The first honors I ever received were from the hands of the Legislature of New York. Well, then, may it be believed that every pulsation of my heart beats in unison with her well-being." General Scott then proceeded to give his views on the great subject of Peace and War, in which every friend of civilization is interested : '* Though I am a soldier, and therefore supposed to be fond of fighting, I abhor war, except when prosecuted in the defence of our country, or for the preservation of its honor, or of some great, important, nay, cardinal interest. I hold war to be a great moral evil. It must be for good and substantial reasons — for no forced or false pretext, however plausibly set forth — that war can be warrantably waged, or that can justify one man in shedding the blood of his fellow-being. The interests of New York, and of our whole country, are identified with peace and with every duty of Christian morality. I doubt if there be any member of that respectable body of our fellow-citizens, the Friends, who is a more zealous advocate for peace. Un- happily, too much of my life has been spent on the field of battle. Let us, then, maintain our peace by all honor- able efforts — by such efforts as Washington, the father of our country, made, to establish and preserve a system of equal and impartial neutrality — a system which some of his most distinguished successors, even to a recent period, have commended, with the entire approbation of the 502 PRESENTATION OF A MEDAL. American people. And now, Mr. Chairman, in offering again my thanks to your Common Council, and to the in- habitants of your city, which have made an old soldier's heart to throb with gratitude, and caused him to forget all his toils, all his hardships, all his suffering of mind and body, I desire to acknowledge to yourself especially, and to the gentlemen of both Boards who compose your com- mittee, the obligations you have imposed upon me by your kind and gracious attentions. Thanks, my warmest thanks, I return through you to the inhabitants of this city." At 12 M., Alderman Franklin, on behalf of the munici- pal authorities of the city, presented General Scott with a silver medal, which had been prepared in commemoration of the battles of Chapultepec, Churubusco, Cerro Gordo, and Vera Cruz. Alderman Franklin presented it, in a neat speech ; and General Scott replied in suitable terms. The following is a description of the medal : It is struck from fine silver, about two inches in diameter, and of the weight of two ounces. On the reverse side is a female figure, the head of which is surrounded with stars, representing the genius of Amer- ica, grasping in her right hand the fulman, and pointing with her left to the rising sun ; while her left foot is rest- ing upon the cactus, and the Mexican serpent lying pros- trate beneath the American eagle. Mountains form the background ; the palm indicating the South, and a walled city representing Vera Cruz, with the American shipping in the harbor. The figure rests on the stern of a Roman galley, which is intended to represent the naval power of the United States ; and around the whole are the words, " Vera Cruz, Cerro Gordo, Chapultepec. and Churubusco." SONG BY GEORGE P. MORRIS. 503 On the obverse side is a new and beautiful arrangement of the city coat-of-arms, designed by Mr. Chapman, with the marginal inscription — '* Presented by the City of New York to Major-General Winfield Scott." In the course of the day, General Scott visited, with the committee, and various public functionaries, the Asylum for the Blind, and the Deaf and Dumb Institution, at each of which short addresses were made ; and the in- terview with the interesting pupils of those institutions was quite affecting. On the evening of the day of reception, the following song, written by George P. Morris, Esq., was sung at the Broadway Tabernacle. It expresses well the warm feelings which animate the great body of the people towards the Patriot Hero, who, in the forty years from 1811 to 1851, has served his country with so much merit, and with such unrivalled success. THE SOLDIER S WELCOME HOME, Victorious the hero Returns from the wars ; His brow bound with laurels That never will fade, While streams the free standard Of stripes and of stars. Whose field in the battle The foemen dismayed. When the Mexican hosts In their madness came on, Like a tower of strength In hia might he arose ! 504 SONG BY GEORGE P. MORRIS. Wliere danger most threatened, His banner was borne, Waving hope to his friends And despair to his foes. Chorus. Huzza I huzza! huzza! The hero forever ! Whose fame is the glory And pride of the land ! II. The Soldier of Honor And Liberty, hail ! His deeds in the temple Of Fame are enrolled ; His precepts, like flower-seeds Sowm by the gale, Take root in the hearts Of the valiant and bold. The wai'rior's escutcheon His foes seek to blot : But vain are the efforts Of partisan bands, For freemen will render Full justice to Scott, And welcome him home With their hearts in their hands. Chorus. Huzza! huzza! huzza! The hero forever ! Whose f:vme is the glory And pride of the land 1 The preamble and resolutions adopted by the Common Council were engrossed and placed in an oaken frame, SCOTT AT WASHINGTON. 505 surrounded by the insignia of war, and then presented to the general, as a teslinaonial of the welcome which was rendered, in regard for his eminent services, by the Com- mon Council of New York. Thus ended the brilliant and interesting reception given to the conqueror of Mexico by the greatest commercial city of the nation. It was done on behalf of the nation, and as representative of that gratitude and admiration which is due to one who has rendered such important and such illustrious services to our common country. For reasons which have never been fully disclosed to the public, Scott was kept with his head-quarters at New York, long after his return from Mexico. He needed, in- deed, less of the cares of business, and more of the pleas- ures of retirement, than Washington would have afforded, in order to recruit his health, like that of many another soldier, injured by too long a residence in a tropical climate. At length, however, he was recalled to his proper station — the head of the Army Bureau at Wash- ington. There he has remained engaged in official rather than military duties, reporting on the condition and pro- posed improvements of the army, but mingling in none of the ambitious schemes or intrigues of politicians. In the midst of those social circles, where worth, patriotism, and intelligence shone around, he was himself the radiant centre of attraction — affable towards all, while holding and uttering those pure and lofty sentiments which have been acted out in his life. In the session of Congress in 1850-51, an act was passed which illustrated, in a remarkable manner, his care and foresight in providing for the wants of the army. We have recorded elsewhere the form of the draft for o?ie liun- 506 ARMY ASYLUMS. dred thousand dollars whicli he had remitted to the Bank of America, to be placed to the credit of " Army Asylums,'* till Congress should order otherwise. This was part of the contributions levied on the city of Mexico, and had been set aside by him, with some other moneys derived from similar sources, for the purpose of founding asylums for invalid soldiers. Congress now (1850-51) carried out, by law, the intentions of Scott, in setting aside this par- ticular fund. When the act was passed, spring of 1851, he was appointed president of an Army Board to select sites for the asylums. In pursuance of this duty, he was obliged to journey through the valleys of the Ohio and Mississippi. Everywhere there was a spontaneous tribute of admiration and respect paid by the people, who, witli- out any notice of the hour of his arrival, or any prepared formahties, everywhere assembled in great numbers, wel- comed him with shouts, and accompanied him to his quarters. At Cincinnati he remained a week ; and from the hour of his arrival to that of his departure, he was con- tinually surrounded by hundreds who were endeavoring to shake him by the hand, and have the pleasure of seeing once, at least, the veteran warrior and patriot who had performed for his country such arduous services, and added so largely to its high renown. Among those who crowded around him w^ere large numbers who had served with him in Mexico, as well as citizens from distant parts of the country, who came purposely to see him. On one occasion, when he was at an evening party, a cannon salute was fired under the windows, to the surprise of the company. On inquiry, it proved to have been done volun- tarily by some of the soldiers who had been with him in the army. scott's public servioes. 507 Having performed his duty as a member of the board, he resumed his position at Washington, where he remains as commander-in-chief of the army, under the President of the United States. General Winfield Scott was commissioned a captain of Light Artillery in May, 1808, and has therefore been forty-three years in the service of the United States ; and during that time has been successful in every thing he UNDERTOOK, has failed in no duty, excused himself from no service, been present on the most memorable fields of battle, and party to some of the most important civil as well as military transactions. In that time he has every- where, and in every place, been obedient to the civil law ; been observant of all the duties of humanity ; been true to every obligation of a citizen and a man ; been the friend of peace rather than of war ; and on three remarkable oc- casions aided in preserving the peace and tranquiUity of the country. A brief summary of his public services will give the reader an outline view of what we have endeavored faith- fully to record on the preceding pages. In chronological order, the principal events of his life may be thus stated : Winfield Scott, Captain of Light Artillery, May, 1808. " " Lieutenant-Colonel of 2d Artillery, Izard's Regi- ment, July, 1812. ** " Volunteers in the Battle of Queenstown, com- mands on the heights, and is captured, October 13, 1812. ** " Interferes in behalf of the captured Irishmen, October, 1812. * " Assists in getting the Act of Retaliation passed, January, 1813. 508 A SUMMARY OF WiNFiELD Scott, Adjutant-General of the army under General Dearborn, at Niagara, May, 1813, ** " Commands the advance guard in the capture of Fort George, May 27, 1813. ** " Colonel of a double regiment, July, 1813. •• " Commands the advance guard in the descent of the St. Lawrence, November, 1813. ** " Is made Brigadier-General, March 9, 1814. <* " Drills the troops in the camp of Buffalo, April, May, June, 1814. ** " Commands the advance brigade, fighting the Battle of Chippewa, July 5, 1814. ** " Commands the advance brigade in the Battle OF Niagara (Lundy's Lane), July 25, 1814. Is badly wounded, July 25, 1814. Is brevetted Major-General, July 25, 1814. Receives the honorary degree of Master of Arts, at Princeton, September, 1814. Declines the appointment of Secretary at War, February, 1815. Travels in Europe, March, 1815-16. Is married, March, 1817. Writes the Military Institutes, 1821. Writes an Essay on Temperance, 1821. Again travels in Europe, 1827-28. Embarks on the Lakes, commanding troops for Black Hawk war, July 8, 1832. Nurses the sick, August, 1832. Is commissioned to treat with Indians, September, 1832. Concludes treaties, September, 1832. Commands in Charleston, November, 1832. Letter to a Nullifier, December 14, 1832. Commands in Florida, February, May, 1836. Speech before a Court of Inquiry, October, 1836. Favorable opinion of the court, October, 1836. Commands on the Canada frontier, Dec, 1837. SCOTT S PUBLIC SERVICES. ' 509 WiNFiELD Scott harangues tlie people, Januar}^ 1838. " '• Maintains Peace, January, 1838. " " Removes the Cherokees, May, 1838. " " Addresses the Indians, May, 1838. " " Commands in the Disputed Territory, March, 1839. ** " Corresponds with Gov. Harvey, March, 1839. ** " Receives votes in the Whig Convention for the Presidency, December, 1839. ** " Supports General Harrison, 1840. ** « Nominated for the Presidency by the State Con- vention of Pennsylvania, 1842. « « Writes to the Dayton Committee on the subject of the Presidency, September, 1842. ** " Writes to Atkinson on the subject of slavery, 1843. ** " Writes on Peace, April, 1844. " " Ordered to Mexico, November 23, 1846. " " Lands at Vera Cruz, March 10, 1847. ** " Captures San Juan de Ulloa, March 27, 1847. " " Wins the Battle of Cerro Gordo, April 18, 1847. " " Enters the city of Pueela, May 15, 1847. " " Commands the army of Mexico in the battle of CoNTRERAS, August 19, 1847. " " In the battle of Churubusco, August 20, 1847. ** " At the battle of Molino del Rey, Sepk 8, 1847. ** " In the storm of Chapultepec, Sept. 13, 1847. ** " Captures the City of Mexico, September 14. 1847. ** " Levies contributions for the comfort of the army, September 18, 1847. " " Devises a system of revenue, November, 1847. ** " Appears before a Court of Inquiry, April, 1848. " " Returns home, May, 1848. " " Is received by the corporation of New York with military and civic honcre. May, 1848. 510 ■ HONORS CONFERRED ON SCOTT. In reviewing this record of more than forty years' pub- lic service, we find that Scott has been engaged in three WARS, has been victorious in ten battles, has three times interfered to preserve peace, and has written several volumes on military institutes, temperance, and various topics of public interest. For this long series of memo rable services he has acquired a renown limited only b) the bounds of the civilized world. In his own country the National Congress, the Legislatures of States, tht corporations of cities, and literary and scientific bodies have repeatedly bestowed upon him their honors and theii applause. Congress voted him a medal ; the State ol Virginia twice voted him swords ; New York voted him a sword ; the Society of Cincinnati made him an honorary member ; and in various forms, and on numerous occa- sions, have the people hastened to do honor to one whoso life has been devoted to their cause. He has been nomi- nated for the presidency repeatedly, by State and county conventions, but has never pressed himself on the con- sideration of political bodies. On the contrary, he has shunned all the intrigues of mere politicians, and left his character and conduct to the unbiased judgment of the people*^ While he thought himself, as a man and a citi- zen, entitled to hold and express his political opinions on all proper occasions, he thought his military position pre- cluded him from entering into any active controversies of parties. His opinions have been frankly expressed on al- most all topics ; never concealed from any fear of conse- quences, nor volunteered to gain mere political support. The fame of General Scott abroad is founded on a more disinterested, and perhaps a more solid basis, than that in his own country. It is founded on a calm view and intel- ELEMENTS IN HIS CHARACTER. 511 ligent understanding of the great actions in which he has been engaged, and the particular merits -of character which have contributed to his success. Kosciusko early wrote him a complimentary letter, and the most competent judges in Europe held him in high estimation ; but it is only since the Mexican war that his European reputation has been brought out in bold relief. Now it is as wide as the circles of intelligence, and durable as the records of history. In the character of Scott are mingled some elements, generally supposed to be very opposite in their qualities, and yet have been completely harmonized in him. He is ardent, and yet calculating ; energetic, and yet mild ; stern in discipline, yet humane ; a warrior, and yet the friend of peace ; authoritative, and yet obedient. In every thing we find the stern, strong, and vigorous elements of charac- ter restrained and modified by mild and amiable disposi- tions. It is this mixture of the natural elements which has made him so eminently successful, and taken from him all which often renders the mere soldier harsh, sanguinary, and repulsive. Ardent for distinction, emulous in the career of glory he certainly was, but without the least taste for the sufi'erings and cruelties of war. On the contrary, all his tastes are refined, and all his impulses generous. War under his command became an element of civiliza- tion. The campaign in Mexico is one of the finest illus- trations of how far and how great have been the advances of humanity, where humanity is supposed least to exist. Let any one compare the conduct of the British armies in the American Revolution, the conduct of the French in Spain, of the Russians in Germany, or the Austrians in 512 scott's humanity in war. Hungary, with that of the American army under Scott, in the valley of Mexico. The difference is most striking. From the commencement, Scott protected, with the same care as he would have done in the United States, the per- sons, property, religion, houses, and business of Mexican citizens. No outrage, and no encroachment of any sort, was made on the rights of the citizens. Entering the city after the most bloody battles and the most obstinate resist- ance, it was according to the usages of war that a very heavy contribution should be exacted from the city ; yet what he really demanded was a mere trifle. And to whom did that go ? Was it divided as plunder among officers and men ? Not a dollar. It was appropriated first to the comfort of the sick and wounded, and then to found an asylum for invalids ! In every step of his progress, the American commander seems to have thought his office was as much that of a priest offering sacrifices on the altar of humanity, as that of a soldier winning laurels in the field. So was his energy and ardor tempered by hu- manity. He was " authoritative, and yet obedient." This, too, is, in the measure possessed by him, an unusual mixture. It is difficult to find eminent military commanders, used to the " habit of command," who have not become arbi- trary ; and it is difficult to find one who has become arbi- trary, who is ready to yield a cheerful and willing obe- dience to others in authority. Yet has Scott manifested this quality in all cases, and under trying circumstances. When, after years of argument, in relation to brevet rank, and when he firmly believed himself right, the President decided against him, he still remained in the army, and took the position assigned him, at the expense of injured HIS NEW LAURELS. 512- feelings. When, at the end of a series of unexampled victories, he received the unexpected and extraordinary degradation of being summoned to answer his inferiors before a court of inquiry, he silently deUvered up his com mand, and appeared to answer at the tribunal the Presi- dent had chosen to constitute. Indeed, through forty years of service, he never once came into colhsion with any of the civil authorities, or transgressed in any way the laws of his country. Of how many other military com- manders can that be said ? When we closed our first account of the life of General Scott, we left him in the midst of peaceful occupations. The army was on the peaceful establishment. There was little for him to do, except to read the reports of subordi- nates, and devise schemes for the improvement of his soldiers. It was only two years after that the war with Mexico broke out, and added a new series of events to his already remarkable career. He then wore greenly and freshly the laurels acquired at Queenstown, at Chippewa, and Niagara. He was remembered as one who had brought peace to the Maine frontier, had quieted the bor- der troubles with Canada, had made the removal of the Cherokees seem an act of humanity, who had nursed the sick in hospitals, and had now become a veteran in ser- vice. But the SECOND CONQUEST OF Mexico comcs to add other laurels to those which cluster round the brows of the hero of Niagara. If the victories of Taylor on the Rio Grande surprised and delighted this country, those from the castle of San Juan to the city of Mexico aston- ished the world. Europe marvels at the result, and America has scarcely waked from what seems the dream of victory and the illusions of conquest. Time is required 33 514 THE JUDGMENf OF HISTORY to do justice to the actors in these events — to separate the evil from the good — the dross from the gold — the vain from the real. Then, when history assumes the office of judgment, and a calm philosophy governs the intellect, men and events will take their proper place, and a righteous spirit direct the verdict of posterity. APPENDIX The following Order was issued by General Scott, immediately after the capture of Mexico, and is the highest evidence of his legal as well as administrative abilities. Without this order, discipline could not have been maintained in the Army, the inhabitants of Mexico could not have been conciliated, and conse- quently the campaign would have failed ; for the sole object of the campaign was to make peace. General Scott was bred a lawyer, and the reader will see that this order is drawn up with an accurate knowledge of the principles bearing upon the case, and the best means of administering justice, where the Civil Law cannot be appealed to. It is one of the best legal documents ever issued by any functionary of the Ex- ecutive Government. HEAD-QUAETEKS OF THE AEMY, National Palace of IVIexico, Sept. 17, 1847 GENERAL ORDERS— No. 287. J The General-in-Chief republishes, with important additions, his General Orders, No. 20, of February 19, 1847 (declaring Mar- tial Law), to govern all who may be concerned. 1. It is still to be apprehended that many grave offences not provided for in the Act of Congress " establishing Rules and Ar- ticles for the government of the Armies of the United States," ap- 516 APPENDIX. proved April 10, 1806, may he again committed — by, or upon, in- dividuals of those armies in Mexico, pending the existing war be- tween the two Republics. Allusion is here made to offences, any one of which, if committed within the United States or their organ- ized territories, would of course be tried and severely punished by the ordinary or civil courts of the land. 2. Assassination, murder, poisoning, rape, or the attempt to commit either ; malicious stabbing or maiming ; malicious assault and battery ; robbery ; theft ; the wanton desecration of churches, cemeteries, or other religious edifices and fixtures ; the interrup- tion of religious ceremonies, and the destruction, except by order of a superior officer, of public or private property, are such of- fences. 3. The good of the service, the honor of the United States, and the interests of humanity, imperiously demand that every crime, enumerated above, should be severely punished. 4. But the written code, as above, commonly called the Rules and Articles of War, does not provide for the punishment of amj one of those crimes, even when committed by individuals of the Army upon the persons or property of other individuals of the same, except in the very restricted case in the 9t]i of those Articles ; nor for like outrages, committed by the same class of individuals, upon the persons or property of a hostile country, except very par- tially, in the 61st, 52d, and 55th Articles; and the same code is absolutely silent as to all injuries which may be inflicted upon in- dividuals of the Army, or their property, against the laws of war, by individuals of a hostile country. 5. It is evident that the 99th Article, independent of any re- striction in the 87th, is wholly nugatory in reaching any one of those high crimes. 6. For all the offences, therefore, enumerated in the second paragraph above, which may be committed abroad, in, by, or upon the Army, a supplemental code is absolutely needed. 7. That umvriitcn code is Martial Law, as an addition to the written military code, prescribed by Congress in the Rules and Articles of War, and which unwritten code, all armies, in hostile countries, are forced to adopt — not only for their own safety, but APPENDIX. 617 for the protection of the unoffending inhabitants and their property, about the theatres of military operations, against injuries on the part of the Army, contrary to the laws of war. 8. From the same supreme necessity, martial law is hereby declared as a supplemental code in, and about, all cities, towns, camps, posts, hospitals, and other places which may be occupied by any part of the forces of the United States in Mexico, and in, and about, all columns, escorts, convoys, guards, and detachments of the said forces, while engaged in prosecuting the existing war in and against the said Republic, and while remaining within the same. 9. Accordingly, every crime, enumerated in paragraph No. 2, above, whether committed — 1. By any inhabitant of Mexico, so- journer or traveller therein, upon the person or property of any in- dividual of the United States forces, retainer, or follower of the same ; 2. By any individual of the said forces, retainer or follower of the same, upon the person or property of any inhabitant of Mex- ico, sojourner or traveller therein; or, 3. By any individual of the said forces, retainer or follower of the same, upon the person or property of any other individual of the said forces, retainer or fol- lower of the same — shall be duly tried and punished under the said supplemental code. 10. For this purpose it is ordered, that all offenders, in the mat- ters aforesaid, shall be promptly seized, confined, and reported for trial, before Military Commissions^ to be duly appointed as fol- lows : 11. Every military commission, under this order, will be ap- pointed, governed, and limited, as nearly as practicable, as prescribed by the 65th, 66th, 67th, and 97th of the said Rules and Articles of War, and the proceedings of such commissions will be duly recorded, in writing, reviewed, revised, disapproved or approved, and the sen- tences executed — all, as near as may be, as in the cases of the pro- ceedings and sentences of courts-martial ; provided, that no military commission shall try any case clearly cognizable by any court-mar- tial ; and provided, also, that no sentence of a military commission shall be put in execution against any individual belonging to this Army, which may not be, according to the nature and degree of the 518 APPENDIX. offence, as established by evidence, in conformity* with known punishments, in like cases, in some one of the States of the United States of America. 12. The sale, waste, or loss of ammunition, horses, arms, cloth- ing, or accoutrements, by soldiers, is punishable under the 37th and 38th Articles of War. Any Mexican, or resident or traveller in Mexico, who shall purchase of any American soldier, either horse, equipments, arms, ammunition, accoutrements, or clothing, shall be tried and severely punished, by a military commission, as above. 13. The administration of justice, both in civil and criminal matters, through the ordinary courts of the country, shall nowhere, and in no degree, be interrupted by any officer or soldier of the American forces, except, 1. In cases to which an officer, soldier, agent, servant, or follower of the American Army may be a party ; and 2. In political cases — that is, prosecutions against other individ- uals on the allegations that they have given friendly information, aid, or assistance to the American forces. 14. For the ease and safety of both parties, in all cities and towns occupied by the American Army, a Mexican police shall be established and duly harmonized with the military police of the said forces. 16. This splendid capital — its churches and religious worship, its convents and monasteries, its inhabitants and property — are, moreover, placed under the special safeguard of the faith and honor of the American Army. 16. In consideration of the foregoing protection, a contribution of $150,000 is imposed on this capital, to be paid in four weekly instalments of thirty-seven thousand five hundred dollars ($37,500) each, beginning on Monday next, the 20th instant, and terminating on Monday, the 11th of October. 17. The Ayuntamiento, or corporate authority of the city, is specially charged with the collection and payment of the several in- stalments. • The United States, as such, have no common law, and hence the Army could not take along with it abroad a common law as it took the Constitution, the Rules and Articles of War, &c *• APPENDIX. 519 18. Of the whole contribution to be paid over to this Army, twenty thousand dollars shall be appropriated to the purchase of extra comforts for the wounded and sick in hospital — ninety thou- sand dollars ($90,000) to the purchase of blankets and shoes for gratuitous distribution among the rank and file of the Army, and forty thousand dollars (.$40,000) reserved for other necessary mili- tary purposes. 19. This Order will be read at the head of every company of the United States forces serving in Mexico, and translated into Spanish for the information of Mexicans. By command of Major-General Scott. H. L. Scott, A. A. A. G. RESOLUTIONS Complimentary to General Scott, and his Army in Mexico. At the Annual Town Meeting of the Borough of Elizabeth, in the State of New Jersey, April 12th, 1847. After the organization of the meeting, Charles King, Esq., offered the following resolutions, which were unanimously and enthusiasti- cally adopted, viz. : Resolved, That this meeting has heard with pride, as Americans, intelligence of the unconditional surrender of the City of Vera Cruz, and of the powerful Castle of San Juan de Ulloa, to the army of the United States, led by Major-General Winfield Scott, after 48 hours of open trenches. Resolved, That this victory, so decisive in its character, by the capture of the whole army of the enemy, including five generals, sixty superior officers, and two hundred and seventy-two company officers — and by the command which it opens to us of the road to the capital of Mexico, is the more precious in our eye, that it was achieved at a comparatively bloodless cost to our force. 520 APPENDIX. Resolved, That the skill of the approaches, the foresight in pro- viding adequate means, and the combined humanity and wisdom of only striking the blow at the moment when all was ready, and a force was present so imposing as to render resistance hopeless, we recognize with pride the qualities of the great commander ; and that in this commander we are happy to claim an honored towns- man, the admirable qualities of whose life w^e have had the oppor- tunity through long years of appreciating, and whom on this occa- sion, when he has again so signally illustrated the military annals of our common country, we seek to honor as friends and neighbors, not less than Americans. Resolved, That while rejoicing with the joy of friends in the pre- servation of the large part of our array from the dangers of war, and especially of those of our own townsmen who are among the gallant officers with Gen. Scott — we mourn the loss of the slain with a grief not unmingled with satisfaction, that they fell in the discharge of duty, and in the arms of victory. ***** (Signed,) JAMES F. MECKER, Moderator. Attest : (Signed,) M. W. Halsey, Clerk. State of New Jersey. Resolved (Senate concurring), That the thanks of this Legis- lature are presented to Major-General Winfield Scott, and the brave army under his command, for their brilliant achievements and admi- rable campaign from the landing at Vera Cruz, to the capture of the City of Mexico. Resolved, That the Governor of this State be requested to trans- mit a copy of the foregoing resolution to Major-General Scott, in Mexico. Passed, Feb'y 24, 1848. State of New Jersey. I, Charles G. McChesney, Secretary of State, of the [Seal.] State of New Jersey, do hereby certify the foregoing is a true copy of concurrent resolutions passed by the Legislature of said State, February 24th, 1848, as taken from, and compared with the original on file in my office. APPENDIX. 521 In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of Office at Trenton, this twenty-eighth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and forty-eight. (Signed.) Charles G. McChesnet, »Sec'y of State. Resolutions complimentary to Major- General Winjield Scott, and the Officers and Soldiers under his command. 1. Resolved, by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, That Major-General Winfield Scott, by a series of glorious victories unparalleled in the history of war, commencing with the Castle of San Juan de Ulloa, and terminating with the capture of the Capital of the Mexican Republic, by which he has attracted to himself and his army the admiration of the world, has entitled himself to the thanks and gratitude of the people of Kentucky, which are hereby tendered, and cordially given. 2. Resolved, That the people of Kentucky look with pride and exultation upon the patriotic ardor and steady valor of the officers and soldiers, volunteers and regular, who have given world-wide renown to our national prowess by the various successful, uninter- rupted, and glorious battles, from Vera Cruz to the City of Mexico. 3. Resolved, That the Governor be, and he is hereby requested to convey a copy of the foregoing resolutions to Major-General Scott, with the request that he communicate the same to the army. (Signed,) James F. Buckner, Speaker of the House of Representatives. (Signed,) Aech'd Dixon, Speaker of the Senate. Approved, February 18, 1848. (Signed,) Wm. Owsley. By the Governor : (Signed,) W. D. Reed, Secretary of State. 522 APPENDIX. "* [No. 2.] Joint Resolution expressive of the Thanks of Congress to Major General Winfleld Scott, and the Troops under his command^ for their distinguished Gallantry and good Conduct in the Campaign of eighteen hundred and forty-seven. Resolved, unanimously, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assemhled, That the thanks of Congress be, and they are hereby, presented to Winfield Scott, major-general, commanding in Chief the army in Mexico, and through him, to the officers and men of the reguhir and volunteer corps under him, for their uniform gallantry and good conduct, con- spicuously displayed at the siege and capture of the City of Vera Cruz and castle of San Juan de Ulloa, March twenty-ninth, eighteen hundred and forty-seven ; and in the successive battles of Cerro Gordo, April eighteenth ; Contreras, San Antonio, and Churubusco, August nineteenth and twentieth ; and for the victories achieved in front of the City of Mexico, September eighth, eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth, and the capture of the metropolis, September four- teenth, eighteen hundred and forty-seven, in which the Mexican troops, greatly superior in numbers, and with every advantage of position, were in every conflict, signally defeated by the American arms. Sec. 2. Resolved, That the President of the United States be, and he is hereby, requested to cause to be struck a gold medal, with devices emblematical of the series of brilliant victories achieved by the army, and presented to Major-General Winfield Scott, as a testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress of his valor, skill, and judicious conduct in the memorable campaign of eighteen hundred and forty-seven. Sec. 3. Resolved, That the President of the United States be re- quested to cause the foregoing resolutions to be communicated to Major-General Scott, in such terms as he may deem best calculated to give effect to the objects thereof. Approved, March 9, 1848. Mayoralty of New Orleans, April 20th, 1848. General : The agreeable duty has devolved on me, in compliance with resolutions of the Municipal Councils, to tender to you, on behalf of your fellow-citizens, the people of New Orleans, the hospitalities APPENDIX. 523 of the city, and to invite you, during your sojourn with us, to be- come the City's Guest. In communicating to you this evidence of the high regard and affection with which you are held by the people of this city, I shall forbear to dilate on the great and brilliant services rendered by you in the campaign of Mexico, by which you have added so much to the glory and renown of our country. They are indelibly impressed on the hearts of your countrymen. Permit me to add, that I entertain in common with my fellow- citizens, those sentiments of admiration and regard which have prompted this welcome on your return to your country. I have the honor to be, with Distinguished consideration. Your friend and fellow-citizen, (Signed,) A. D. Grossman, Mayor. To Major-General VVinfield Scott. In the presence of a few friends of the parties, the presen- tation of the sword to General Scott, voted by the State of Louisiana, took place last Saturday, when Col. Stewart spoke as follows : General Scott : My colleague. Colonel Winthrop, and myself, have been charged by the Governor of Louisiana, to deliver to you this sword and this letter. The sword is " Presented by the people of the State of Loui- siana, to Gen. Winfield Scott, for his gallantry and generalship exhibited at the siege of Vera Cruz, in the battles of Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Churubusco, Molino del Rey, Chapultepec, and to his final entry into the City of Mexico." The letter of the Governor of Louisiana is as follows : Executive Office, Neio Orleans, June 28, 1848. Sir: In accordance w^ith your request, the sword voted to you by the Legislature of the State of Louisiana, will be presented at Washington. On this agreeable duty, I have designated from my staff, my friends Colonels Winthrop and Stewart, who in a lauda- ble spirit have kindly consented to represent my wishes on the 524 APPENDIX. In addition to this proof of grateful appreciation for disting-uished services rendered by you at the siege of Vera Cruz, and the battle of Cerro Gordo, the people of this State anticipated, with no ordi- nary emotion, the proud privilege of testifying to you in person, the high sense they entertain of the consummate skill and masterly conduct which, covering our arms with undying glory, have identi- fied forever with the brightest page of American history the fame of the brilliant conquests achieved under your eye and command in the valley of Mexico. But disappointed by circumstances, the force of which is admitted, they still cherish a lively hope, that at no distant future, they will be afforded an opportunity of cancelling, in some degree, this reserved debt of gratitude, which I, in their behalf, am, at this time, only permitted to acknowledge. With sincere wishes for your health and happiness, I am, General, with profound respect. Your most obedient servant, (Signed,) Isaac Johnson. Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott, Washington. Permit us to add. General, that the people of Louisiana have not been insensible, could not be insensible, to the great services you have rendered our common country. A public vote of thanks on the part of the Legislature of the State, expressive of the universal feeling of the people, has already been communicated to you. This sword, on which are inscribed the words — glorious, as well as mem- orable from association and in sentiment — Mexico Capta, and this letter which we now deliver, are additional, though slight testimonials on the part of the people and authorities of the State, of their admiration for one who has planned and conducted that splendid series of occurrences in the march to Mexico, the mere reference to which excites, and must forever excite, a deep and thrilling sensation of exultation and gratitude in every American heart. This agreeable mission is performed by my colleague and myself through circumstances alone. The duty would have been more appropriately, as well as more satisfactorily accomplished b}^ our eloquent and patriotic Governor, if, when returning. General, to your native land, from the scenes of your glory, you liad stood upon the soil of Louisiana, in the midst of a people who have always felt the keenest sympathy for those who have gone forth to fight the battles of their country on foreign ground, in vindication of its honor and its interests — a people who would have extended to you an enthusiastic welcome, and with whom you would have been an honored public guest. APPENDIX. 525 To this address Gen. Scott made the subjoined brief and appropriate reply : Colonel: In accepting from your hands this beautiful sword, tendered me by the people of Louisiana, I cannot fiiil to express my sensibility of the kind terras in which you have prefaced the presentation of the letter of the Governor of Louisiana, which you have had the goodness to bear to me. I would not fail to express to you my thanks for the trouble you have taken in seeking; me, even in my sick-room, to present a testimonial from the people of Louisiana, which could not fail to bring joy to the heart of a soldier. Sir, I yet hope to visit Louisiana and bear with me this sword, wiiich her patriotic citizens may be assured, will never be drawn but in defence of my country. Nothing could have afforded me more pleasure than to have landed from Mexico on the soil of Louisiana. There I can number many personal acquaintances, and even friends: among whom I count with pleasure the Governor of your State. But ray principal regret that circumstances did not allow me, upon leaving Mexico, to visit Louisiana and its capital, arises from the glorious feeling displayed by that patriotic people, in every stage of the war, towards my comrades in arms. If the United States had deputed Louisiana to discharge the hospitalities of the whole nation, the warm-hearted and generous conduct which she has already displayed, could not have been sur- passed. She has relieved our sick, comforted our wounded, ex- tended the right hand of fellowship to all ; and, when the part of the good Samaritan was not needed, showered down honors and distinctions which will always endear her to the soldiers of Mexico. I again thank you, Colonel, for the trouble you have taken in my behalf, and feel honored by the zeal and kindness you have displayed in the discharge of your mission, and am particularly gratitied to receive through your hands, so honored a testimonial from the peo- ple of Louisiana. ^ [Doc. No. 62.] Mayor's Office, New York, May 15th, 1848*. To the Honorable the Common Council : Gentlemen : Information has been communicated to me that Major-General Winfield Scott embarked on the 30th ult. for this port, and he may, therefore, be daily expected. In view of the great and important services rendered to our 526 APPlfNDIX. country by this distinguished commander, during the recent cam- paign in Mexico, I deem it my duty to make this communication, and to submit the propriety of receiving him in a manner commen- surate with a proper appreciation of his gallant achievements, and those of his companions in arms. (Signed,) W. F. Havemeyer, Mayor. Whereupon the following preamble and resolution were sub- mitted by Alderman Crolius, in relation thereto : Whereas, Information has been received that Major-General Win- field Scott, of the United States Army, has taken passage from Vera Cruz to this port; and Whereas, The citizens of New York would gladly welcome the hero who, from Lundy's Lane to the City of the Montezumas, has covered the flag of his country with imperishable honor, winning for himself a fame which will perish only when a grateful country shall cease to exist ; and Whereas, It is proper that the gallant soldier should be received in a manner commensurate with his own merits, and the estimation in which we, as American citizens, hold his faithful, arduous, and valuable services in the late campaign in Mexico, through which he has passed so gloriously ; therefore. Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to make suitable arrange- ments for the reception of General Scott, and to tender to him, on his arrival, the hospitalities of the City. The same were unanimously adopted by the Board of Aldermen. And Aldermen Crolius, Maynard, Hatfield, Smith, and Gray were appointed such Committee on the part thereof. THE DAY Was a most auspicious one. The sun shone from a sky unob- scured with a single cloud, and long before the hour fixed for the arrival, the several streets through which the procession was to pass, were filled with a dense crowd of citizens and strangers, eager to behold, and to receive with shouts of welcome, the gallant Hero on his return from the scenes of his brilliant triumphs in Mexico. % During the day cannon were fired from the Battery and other pkces, the national flag floated from the City Hall, and from the several public buildings in the City, while colors and streamers waved from the numerous shipping in the port. The steamboat " St. Nicholas," which was generously tendered for the occasion by Isaac Newton, Esq., was at Castle Garden pier at the appointed hour, gayly decked with flags, and the Common Council, with their invited guests, among whom were the Governor APPENDIX. 527 of the State, Senators and Representatives in Congress, Oflicers of the Army and Navy, Foreign Consuls, ex-Mayors of tlie City, mem- bers of the State Senate and Assembly, Heads of Departments of the City Government, principal officers of tiie General Government in the City, and a number of other distinguished cilizens and stran- gers, having proceeded on board, she shoved off, and was soon on her way for Elizabethport. Passing down the harbor, to and through the Kills, the boat reached Elizabethport at about 12 o'clock, M., and came to the wharf under a salute tired from a field-piece on board, furnished by Com- missary-General Stewart, of the City Arsenal. Immediately after arriving, the General was seen approaching towards the wharf, escorted by the Mayor and Corporation of Eliza- bethtown, together with a large concourse of the citizens of the place. Arriving at the wharf, he was received by the Committee of Arrangements, to whom he was presented by Mayor Sanderson, of Elizabcthtown, who delivered on the occasion the following ADDRESS: Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the Common Council of New York : On belialf of the corporate authorities and people of the Borough of Elizabeth, I have the pleasure of committing to your charge our most eminent and distinguished citizen. General Win- field Scott. We rejoice with the joy of friends in every manifestation of re- spect and gratitude towards one for whom, over and above the estimate which, in common with the whole nation, we put upon the unsurpassed brilliancy of his public services, we, as neighbors, townsmen, and friends, entertain the warmest feelings of personal attachment. Take him with you, gentlemen, to your metropolis, present him to your fellow-citizens, honor him as you know how to honor a well-deserving patriot and soldier, well assured that every cheer wiiich within your confines shall greet our townsman, and your honored guest, v/ill find an echo in the hearts of Americans every- where, and tend more and more to cement a feeling of common pride in, and attachment to our common country, and its great and heroic names — a feeling which is at once the bond and strength of the glorious union that makes us one people. Mr. President and gentlemen, I present to you General Winfield Scott. The cheering which succeeded this address having subsided, the General was escorted to the forward deck of the boat by 528 APPENDIX. Aldermen Crolius, Scliultz, and Smith, where he was presented to Morris Franklin, Esq., President of the Board of Aldermen, amid the continued huzzas of those assembled on board. Mr. Franklin addressed the General in behalf of the Common Council, as follows : General Scott : Among the many duties which devolve upon the Common Council of our City, there are none which commend themselves more strongly to our feelings than that of extending the rights of hospitality to distinguished strangers, and assuring them of a sincere and cordial welcome. Under the inliuence of such feel- ings, and animated by the approving voice of our united population, we tender to you a cordial invitation to become the guest of our City, and assure you of our hearty congratulations, that, after the perils and dangers to which you have been exposed, you are per- mitted again to mingle with your fellow-citizens in the enjoyment of that social intercourse which the life of a soldier so peculiarly qualifies him to appreciate and enjoy. In contemplating the thrilling events which have characterized your history, we find so much to excite our admiration, and to call into aiition the patriotic emotions of the heart, that we feel proud, as American citizens, that among the many illustrious names which now are, or may hereafter be emblazoned upon the escutcheons of our country, yours will appear in bold relief, as among her noblest and most honored sons; for whether upon tlie plains of Chippewa, or Lundy's Lane — whether at the sortie of Fort Erie, or on the heights of Queenstown — whether the landing on the shores 'of Vera Cruz, or bravely contending at the pass of Cerro Gordo — whether entering in triumph the capital of Mexico, and there planting the American standard upon its battlements — whether in the warrior's tent, at the solemn hour of midnight, arranging the operations of the coming day, while your faithful soldiers were slumbering around you, dreaming of their friends and their homes — or whether attend- ing upon the wounded, the dying, and the dead, regardless of your- self in your anxiety for others — we find all those characteristics which mark the true dignity of man, and bespeak the accomplished and victorious chieftain. Under circumstances such as these, £ind fresh from the w^ell-fought battle-fields of our country, we now welcome you within our midst, as one worthy to receive and forever wear that victorious wreath which the American people have entwined to decorate and adorn your brow; and we cannot omit upon tliis occasion to bear our tes- timony to the valor, bravery, and skill displayed by that noble band of our adopted fellow-citizens, v/ho, side by side with the natives of our soil, stood bravely by the common standard of our country, or fell nobly struggling in its defence. Peace to the ashes of those APPENDIX. 529 who thus sacrificed their lives, for they died as brave men love to die, fighting the battles of their country, and expiring in the very arras of victory. To yoii, sir, who have been so long familiar with the exciting scenes of a military life, tame indeed will be the reception which we can offer upon your visit to our commercial City, for there no for- eign army awaits your coming — no hostile flag waves upon the breeze; but the citizen soldier, and the martial strains of our native music, mingled, with the shouts of an assembled multitude, will pre- sent to you a welcome as sincere and cordial as the minds of free- men can conceive, or the overflowing of their hearts express ; for, although we are a stirring, active people, eager in the pursuit of business and of wealth, yet we can turn aside from the dull routine of daily avocations, to welcome a distinguished stranger, and testify by our actions, that, although republics are said to be ungrateful, in the present day there remains that natural pride and devoted patri- otism, which would shrink from withholding the right hand of fel- lowship from one so intimately identified with our country's glory, and whose life has been devoted to the protection of its honor and its fame. Far distant be the day when the people of our City shall so for forget their own honor and true dignity of character, as to turn their backs upon the acknowledged bravery of one, the record of whose life will cast a halo of glory around the history of our country, upon which, in future ages, generations yet unborn will love to linger; and as the hoary head of age recounts the battles you have fought, the dangers you have passed, and the victories you have won, the sparkling tear of gratitude will kindle in the youthful eye, and ani- mate his soul to deeds of daring and of valor — for your life, sir, will present to the ambitious soldier an example worthy of imitation, and fresh indeed will be his laurels, if, in the evening of his days, he can look back upon a career as brilliant as that of the conqueror of the capital of Mexico, whose presence we this day hail with accla- mations of gratitude, and welcome again with renewed evidences of our confidence, that with such a commander, and with a bold and courageous soldiery, such as those who wept over your departure at Vera Cruz, we may confidently hope that the flag of our country will remain untarnished, and whether upon the ocean or the land, at home or abroad, the stars of that flag will illumine the path of free- dom throughout the world, and the terror of its stripes drive op- pression from its standard. We hail you, then, most gallant General, as the honored guest of our City, and desire that you may feel and realize that you are sur- rounded by a grateful and confiding people, and who are as anxious to render this visit as pleasant and agreeable to yourself, as it will be gratifying to those by whose authority the invitation has been extended. 34 530 APPENDIX. This address was received with the most enthusiastic huzzas, portraying the depth of feehng which animated those present for the brave and gallant hero. General Scott made the following reply : Mk. President, gentlemen of the Common Council of New York, and fellow-citizens generally : Designing to spend quiet- ly a few days in this neighborhood, I have, on your kind demand, come forth from retirement, to surrender myself a prisoner into the hands of my friends. The grand City of New York, already the emporium of our hemisphere, and destined to become the emporium of both — having determined, through her authorities, to do honor to a public servant of our country — true to her own greatness, without measuring his little merit, performs that generous office in a manner worthy of herself and of the United States. If I had looked to considerations merely personal, I should have declined the high distinction tendered me ; but I knew I was to be received by you as the representative of that victorious army it was so lately my good fortune to command — an army that has carried the glory of American arms to a height tluit has won universal ad- miration, and the gratitude of all hearts at home. A very large portion of the rank and file of that army, regulars and volunteers, went forth from the City of New York, to conquer or to die. It was my happy lot to witness their invincible valor and prowess. All dangers, difficulties, and hardships, were met and conquered. You have been pleased, sir, to allude to our adopted citizens. I can say that the Irish, the Germans, the Swiss, the French, the Brit- ons, and other adopted citizens, fought in the same ranks, under the same colors, side by side with native-born Americans — exhibiting like courage and efficiency, and uniting at every victory in the same enthusiastic shouts in honor of our flag and country. From Vera Cruz to the capital of Mexico, there was one generous rivalry in he- roic daring and brilliant achievement. Let those who witnessed that career of valor and patriotism, say, if they can, what race, according to numbers, contributed most to the general success and glory of the campaign. On tlie many hard-fought battle-fields there was no room for invidious distinction — all proved themselves the faithful sons of our beloved country, and no spectator could fail to dismiss any lingering prejudice he might have entertained as to the com- parative merits of Americans by birth and Americans by adoption. As the honored representative of all, I return among you, to bear testimony in favor of my fellow-soldiers in the field — the army of Mexico — and I congratulate you and them, that the common object of their efforts, and of your hopes, the restoration of peace, is in all \ robability now attained. APPENDIX. 531 A Medal to General Scott. The State of Virginia has recently voted a medal to General Scott, of which we find the following description in the Rich- mond Enquirer : " This beautiful memorial of Virginia's munificent gratitude, is at the same time one of the most exquisite specimens of American art that we have ever seen. The medal is three and a half inches in diameter, five-sixteenths of an inch thick, and is of course very mas- sive and rich. On one side is an admirable, life-like bust of the General, with the words ' Winfield Scott' in capitals above. The bust stands upon an oblong pedestal — flanked by two noble eagles, sprigs of laurel and oak touching their wings ; a number of flags (two Mexican banners among them), guns, pikes, mortars, and field- pieces, forming an appropriate background. On the pedestal is the following inscription; 'The Commonwealth of Virginia presents this medal to Major-General Winfield Scott, as a memorial of her admiration for the great and distinguished services of her son, whilst commander-in-chief of the American armies in the war with Mexico, 1847.' " On the reverse side, in the centre, stands a beautiful fluted col- umn, with ' 1812 ' on the base and ' 1848 ' on the capital. A spread eagle, holding an olive-branch in its mouth, is on its top — and the column is entwined with leaves of laurel, inscribed with the words ' Vera Cruz, Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Churubusco, Del Rey, Chapul- tepec, Mexico.' Above the column are the words ' Fecit Quod Cogitavit ;' below, ' From Virginia,' and an escutcheon with the coat of arms of the State. In the background are the principal buildings in or near the city of Mexico, the Castle of San Juan (as we take it), with the peculiar and strikingly peeked mountains, batteries at work, &c. — the whole encircled by a very rich wreath of laurel and oak intertwined. The medal is one of great beauty and magnifi- cence, and does great credit to the exquisite skill and taste of Mr. C. C. Wright, an old soldier under General Scott, and now of New York." We learn that a committee of presentation, appointed by the Governor of Virginia, consisting of Messrs. Burwell, Aylett, Beirne, Carrington, and Barbour, have arrived in this city, and that the medal will be presented on Saturday next, at eleven o'clock, A. M. Notice of the place of presentation will hereafter be given. [The above is taken from the Washington Eepublic, of Jan. 24, 1851. j 532 APPENDIX. Presentation of the Medal to General Scott. On Saturday last, Jan. 25, 1851, at the City Hall, in the presence of a large assemblage of persons, among whom we recognized the Hon. C. M. Conrad, Secretary of War, the Hon. Lewis Cass, and other distinguished citizens, and several officers of the army, the medal of Vii-ginia was presented to Major- General Winfield Scott, by the hand of W. M. Burwell, Esq., Chairman of the Committee of the Virginia Legislature. Mr. Burwell addressed the General in the following words : General : The distinguished services which you have rendered the Republic have received the gratitude of your countrymen and the admiration of the world. Intrusted with the organization and command of an army of in- vasion, we have seen the debarkation of your troops — the investment of a fortified city — the approaches — the siege — the capitulation and surrendeT succeed eacii other with the regularity and precision of a programme of conquest. On the march of invasion, you have de- monstrated unbounded resource and consummate military skill ; whilst the enthusiastic obedience of your soldiers has evinced an implicit confidence in their commander. With an army numerically unequal to that which opposed it, you have penetrated a country in which every mountain was a rampart, and every defile a ditch forti- fied by military skill, and defended with patriotic desperation. The progress of yoyr arms was traced in toil and blood ; and, emerging from a terrible and protracted struggle, amid deeds of exalted hero- ism, you have planted the banner of your country upon the citadel of her foe. You rested from the conflict to achieve the higher glory of moder- ation in the hour of conquest. You granted to a prostrate nation terras in which triumph was tempered with mercy, and the interests of your country made to accord with the dictates of your heart. You have subjected by your valor the proudest and the most ancient city of the continent — a city first conquered by a race long rival to your own ; but the scroll of your renown will be unstained by the blood of a people tortured for gain, or scourged at the command of a merciless superstition. The story of your conquest will revive with its brilliant successes the memories of the past; the lover of chivalrous adventure will read with enthusiasm the prodigies of American valor which it re- cords, whilst the plan, progress, and consummation of your campaign, detailed in your dispatches, will be studied with instruction by the strategist and the statesman. General, your fame will be eternal, for it is entwined with the honor of your country ; it is universal, for it has received the ap- plause of the civilized world. APPENDIX. 533 Yet, to those who know your heart, that fame would be incom- plete without the approbation of the State that gave you birth. The maternal approval of Virginia will commend to your heart the acquisitions of your genius. You will appreciate her sincerity, for she has never spoken the language of adulation ; and treasure her affection, for she has never forgotten her sons. We are here in the name and with the voice of Virginia, to con- firm the honors which others have bestowed. She does not, like the republics of the past, welcome you with a triumphal train. Bound captives weep not at your prowess — nor does the tribute gold of ravaged cities insult your countrymen by appealing to their cupidity — no votive victims heap the altar to ask of the gods their approval of your actions — nor does the gilded arch or the imperial title lure you to forfeit, for an empty fame, the solid honors which you have won so well, and worn so nobly. But recognizing in your matured renown the confirmation of your earlier promise, Virginia regards with pride the added evidences of her capacity to contribute to the Republic the services of the hero and the sage, nor deems it evidence that this capacity is exhausted because she has in your person united the attributes of both. General ! Virginia bids us offer you this gift. Its sculptured sur- face bears faint impress of the scenes of your glory. Its motto is significant of your sagacity and of your success. It is a gift inade- quate to express your worth or her affection. But the gift embodies and embalms the emotions with which she regards your virtues and your deeds. Receive this medal, and preserve it, as the gift of a devoted mother to a cherished and illustrious son. During the delivery of this address, General Scott repeatedly bowed in acknowledgment of the encomiums conferred upon him, and at its conclusion replied : Gentlemen of the Committee : It was an apothegm of PeTicles, that where Hie highest rewards are given to public virtue, there the best of patriots will ever be found. This maxim of more than one ancient republic may also be claimed by my native State, the honored Commonwealth of Vir- ginia. Indeed, iier loyalty to our glorious Union has, from the first, been most conspicuous in the honors she has ever been prompt to bestow upon all her sons who have devoted themselves to the service of our common country — the United States of America. I, one of those sons, and who never directly held trust or commis- sion from her, have, in pursuance of her generous policy, to stimu- late by reivards, a second time, with a third of a century between, been made the object of her distinguished partiality. At the end of the second war with Great Britain, Virginia, besides givhig my name to 534 APPENDIX. a county, presented m,e with a splendid sword of honor, which I often wear with pride, and shall transmit with my affections. If " sweet are the uses of adversity" — and I have experienced those trials and persecutions to which all public men are subject — so may prosperity, even the glory of this moment, teach a lesson of humility. This beautiful object of art, with its most complimentary device and inscription — the audience that honors the occasion, and the eloquent but flattering address delivered in the name and in behalf of a great Commonwealth, certainly look like fame, and make it impossible for me to say that, in respect to distinction, I have lived wholly in vain ; but when I contrast my career with the fond aspirations of youth — springing from the study of the great examples of virtue and usefulness in ancient and modern history, including the history of America. I am made humble by the sense of my own mediocrity. Gentlemen of the Committee, I most gratefully accept this medal as a mark of the continued approbation of my native State. It will serve daily to remind me and my post<3rity that, with a God to wor- ship, each has also a country to love, to honor, and to obey. COEEESPONDENCE. We append the following correspondence, as foiming a part of the record of what transpu-ed immediately on the return of General Scott from Mexico. "Washington, May 8t7i, 1848. My Dear General : Your distinguished services in two wars, and your no less dis- tinguished services during the long intervening period of prosperous peace, have deservedly won for you the love and admiration of your countrymen. A large portion of your fellow-citizens, who yield to none in their admiration of your bravery and humanity in war, as well as of your patriotism and prudence in peace, have been told that you favor the principles of the so-called " Native " party. From an extensive correspondence and acquaintance with citizens of this class, I learn that many feel grieved that such principles should be attributed to you. Did they know you, as I do, they would see that great injustice is done you. I know your kind and liberal views towards the natu- ralized citizens. I remember the grateful emotions of my heart APPENDIX. 535 when I first read the account of your rescuing from British power and British prisons twenty-two of my countrymen, made prisoners of v/ar while fighting under the American flag. You, sir, was the first to assert and maintain the perfect equality of adopted and na- tive citizens. In your recent campaign in Mexico, I hope you have found additional motives for recognizing that equality, and that all the adopted citizens vied with each other in braving danger where- ever you commanded. Not for myself, therefore, but for the satisfaction of others, do I respectfully ask you to say whether, after witnessing such fidelity to the flag of their adopted country, by soldiers of foreign birth, you are for adding new restrictions to the present system of nat- uralization; or whether you are in favor of having the privileges, now enjoyed under the Constitution and laws of the country, fairly expounded and faithfully executed, secured to such persons of foreign birth as may wish to become citizens of the United States ? I have the honor to be, Sincerely yours, Major-General Winfield Scott. W. E. Robinson. REPLY. Washington, 3fay 29th, 1848. Dear Sir, In reply to your kind letter of the 8th instant^ 1 take pleasure in saying that, grateful for the too partial estimate you place "on my public services, you do me no more than justice in assuming that I entertain " kind and liberal views towards our naturalized citizens." Certainly it would be impossible for me to recommend or support any measure intended to exclude them from a just and full partici- pation in all civil and political rights now secured to them by our republican laws and institutions. It is true, that in a season of unusual excitement, some years ago, when both parties complained of fraudulent practices in the naturalization of foreigners, and when there seemed to be danger that native and adopted citizens would be permanently arrayed 536 APPENDIX. against each other in hostile factions, I was inclined to concur in the opinion, then avowed by many leading statesmen, that some modification of the naturalization laws might be necessary in order to prevent abuses, allay strife, and restore harmony between the different classes of our people. But later experience and reflection have entirely removed this impression, and dissipated ray apprehen- sions. In my recent campaign in Mexico, a very large proportion of the men under my command were your countrymen (Irish), Germans, &c., &c. I witnessed with admiration their zeal, fidelity, and valor in maintaining our flag in the face of every danger. Vieing with each other and our native-born soldiers in the same ranks in pat- riotism, constancy, and heroic daring, I was happy to call them brothers in the field, as I shall always be to salute them as country- men at home. I remain, dear Sir, with great esteem, Yours truly, VVm. E. Robinson, Esq. Winfield Scott. WHIG NATIONAL CONVENTION. The "Whig iN'ational Convention assembled at Balti- more on the 16th of June, 1852, nominated Winfield Scott to be supported by the Whig electors as their candidate for President of the United States. The illustrious statesman, Daniel Webster, and the model President, Millakd Fillmore, were also candi- dates for nomination before the Convention. When the choice fell on Winfield Scott, the delegation from each State rose in succession and pledged a warm and cor- dial support. The nomination was declared to be unanimous, and was received with bursts of en- thusiasm. The telegraphic wires carried the joyful news to all sections of the country. It was everywhere received with demonstrations of joy : bonfires, national salutes, public meetings, raising of flags, ringing of bells, all testified how firmly the admiration and love of the patriot soldier is seated in the hearts of the American j)eople. The old general, who has fought many battles and never known defeat, who has endured the hardships and toils of two wars, has been drawn from his retire- ment by the call of his fellow-citizens, and now appears on the political field to gather new laurels, and make a 538 SCOTT NOMINATED FOR PKESIDENT. final dedication of all that remains of life to the service of his country. He has heard, undismayed, the roar of cannon amid the strife of battle ; he has been serene when the fate ol armies and the honor of his country were suspended on his judgment and decisions ; he has been struck down on the battle-field and pierced by the balls of the ene- my — and now the sunken shoulder and the withered limb should be as guardian angels to protect him from the assaults of political partisans. May the genius of freedom, inspired by patriotism, throw her protecting mantle over the old soldier, and carry him in safety through this his last trial ; may the tongue of slander for once be paralyzed ; may party spirit stand rebuked before the illustrious soldier, now about to receive from the people theii' choicest meed of approbation. A. S. BARNES «fe COMPANY S PUBLICATIONS. Co It on' s Land and Lee. LAND AND LEE IN THE BOSPHOKUS AND iEGEAN. BY KEY. WALTER COLTON, EDITED BY EEY. HENRY T. CHEEYER This work will be remembered under its old title of a "Visit to Athens ana Con- stantinople," a bright, sketchy, sparkling picture of the classical shores of the iEgean and the Bosphorus. It abounds in shrewd remarks, and buoyant enthusiasm, reflect- ing the joyousness of the climes it portrays. We think this new edition of Mr. Colton'a •writings will prove an admirable series of books of travel, far above the ordinaiy run of such works, and honorable to the feeling and talent of the author. Something of the tact which made the author so good a describer is to be detected in his apt titles — Deck and Port— Ship and Shore— Land and Lee — The Sea and the Sailor.— JWw York Evangelist. This is another volume from the pen of the author of "Three Years in California," "Deck and Port," and ''Ship and Shore," and is as replete with interest as any of its predecessors. The style possesses a raciness and vigor which ever carries the reader along as if by magic. No one who commences reading it will have the least desire to lay it down until he reaches the end, and will then regret that there is not more of it. We know of no author who has written for the public who has gained a wider or more just celebrity for vigor, interest, and instructiveness than Walter Colton. By his early death a bright light was extinguished, which, had it been permitted to shine for a few years more, would have reflected its bright imaginings to the extremest parts of the civilized world.— Jl/«ss/7o7i JVcws. The former works of the same author have been perused with much interest, and have a wide circulation, and we doubt not the present volume, replete with informa- tion descriptive of Oriental life and manners, customs and scenery, will find thousands of enthusiastic admirers. The very graceful style of the writer, the quiet vein of good humor that runs through all his productions, occasionally spiced with pleasant satire, can scarcely be equalled by any author. We take pleasure in commending his " Views of Athens and Constantinople" to all. — Parker''s Journal. While the author was alive, this book had a very popular and merited run, under the title of a "Visit to Athens and Constantinople." Having, says the present editor, " withstood the cross-fires of criticism in a long crtiise upon the open seas, it has come to the dry-dock for repairs ; and it is now razeed into its present dimensions, in order to make one of the gallant fleet of books which sail under the flag of its author." The editor has done his part of the preparation well, being that of revision and condensa- tion, so that " Land and Lee" is a very good younger brothei of " Ship and Shore." — Christian Intelligencer. Athens and Constantinople, with all their traditions, peculiarities, manners, and cus- toms of the people ; their political, religious, and social life, occupations, &c., aro placed before the reader of this volume in a clear and attractive style. — J\''ciD York Sun. The late Rev. Walter Colton is favorably known to the Christian public by his long service as chaplain in the United States Navy, and the deep interest he has taken in the cause of foreign missions. During his extensive travels at sea, he wrote much pertaining to the different cities and nations he visited, that is deeply interesting and valualDle. His works contain that exciting personal adventure which is so pojiular and pleasing to the general reader, besides a rich fund of entertaining and authentic inlbr- matiou useful for the tyro in historical and geographiciil loro.—JndiaTia Jounuu. A. S. BARNES