Book li / EVENTS AND INCIDENTS IN THE HISTORY OF GEN. WINFIELD SCOTT. i *nt. " The enemy's balls have thinned ovn banks. His numbers are otek- WHELMiNG. Directly the shock must come, and there is no retreat. Wh ARE IN THE BEGINNING OF A NATIONAL WaB. HuLL'S IGNOMINIOUS SURRENDEa must be RETRIEVED. LeT US DIE, THEN, ARMS IN HAND. OuR COUNTRY DEMANDS THE SACRIFICE. ThE EXAMPLE AVILL NOT BE LOST. ThE BLOOD OF THE S-LAIN WILL MAKE HEBOES OF THE LIVING. WlIO IS READY^ FOR THE SACRIFICE?" S(Ott's Speech at Queenstown Heights. WASHINGTON : PRINTED BY KIRK WOOD k McGILL. 1852. PREFACE. This brief sketch of some of the most important and thrilling events and inci- dents in the Life of Winfield Scott is intended to be read by men of all parties •ffho dare to seek for truth ; and the writer challenges a fair investigation of its statements. They are compiled from oflBcial and authentic records. He does not seek to detract from others, nor to deck the brow of the Conquebob with laurels unfairly won. Side by side and shoulder to shoulder stood Democrats and Whigs through the fierce and terrible conflicts which these pages record. Let them be friends no less in peace. c. b. a. ^ Z f / 4 '04 ADVERTISEMENT. [Orders for this edition of Scott's Life may be addressed to Kirkwood & McGill, Washington, D. C, who will forward them to any direction, at the rate of $1 50 per hundred copies.] GEN. WINFIELD SCOTT. INCIDENTS AND EVENTS IN HIS HISTORY. The fame and achievements of Winfield Scott are the com- mon property of every American. No section of our great Republic can claim, and no party can exclusively appropriate them. In times of high political excitement, the passions of men are appealed to and addressed with overwrought statements, and the intelligent as well as the illiterate are led away from the sober truth of history. The record of our American times will scarcely furnish a parallel to what is now before us. Are we not all Democrats and Republicans, in heart and soul; admirers of the Father of his Country — the Immortal Washington — and of the long line of patriot-soldiers and states- men who have succeeded him ? The names of Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, Jackson, Taylor, and Scott are all our property — the true basis of our national pride and glory. They established, by their wisdom and virtue, the foundations and pillars of our independence, and with their conquering arms drove the oppressors from our shores ; bore the stars and stripes in triumph to the proud City of Mexico ; astonished the whole civilized world with our achievements; and added half a conti- nent, whose bosom was rich in gold, and whose shores were washed by the mighty Pacific, to our domain. The name of Winfield Scott is reverently spoken in the courts of the haughtiest monarchs in Europe, and has drawn from the Con- queror of Napoleon the reluctant acknowledgment that he is "The greatest Military Captain of the age." The war of the American Revolution only severed us from England, and left us in a state of half dependency. We were still oppressed, insulted, degraded, and looked upon by the nations of the earth as a crippled, isolated, brave, but misguided people, having the rudiments of civilization, but too weak for defence, and too poor to render us worthy of acquisition. » WAR OF 1812— dHAKGE AT CHIPPEWA. It was the war of 1812 which dissipated these impressions^ and secured to us those rights and that respect from abroad which we now enjoy. It was in this war that the genius of WiNFiELD Scott was first actually developed in heroic deeds. On the bloody plains of Chippewa we behold him charging at the head of his column of newly-disciplined Americans against the serried, steady, and hitherto invincible files of British bayo- nets, and asserting and demonstrating with awful certainty the fact of American superiority and courage. The British troops — proud and disdainful of YouNG Amekica, yet far superior in numbers, and composed of the veterans of the Bi'itish army; men Avho had faced death in every shape, — broke before the impetuosity of American bayonets, led on by Winfield Scott, and left him Conqueror of the Field. The news of this battle thrilled every heart, gladdened the family circle round every hearth-stone in the land, inspired coui'age and confidence, and tirrned the disastrous tide of war which flowed from the cowardly surrender of Hull at Detroit. The charm of British bayonets was broken. Winfield Scott was everywhere hailed as a Deliverer, and success on sea followed success on land, till the hateful clangor of British arms was hushed to eternal silence on our shores. From that time forth, on every field, and in every section of this continent, the announcement that " Scott leads the column" has been the pre- cursor of certain victory. Perhaps there is no single remark of his life more indicative of his self-reliance and cool calculation of success than that which he made to a British officer who was at the head of a greatly superior force, and supported by six hundred savage and blood-thirsty Indians. It was this: The British commander had summoned Scott to surrender, and in- formed him that if he did not comply, he should not hold himself responsible for the Indians — meaning that they would be let loose to butcher the prisoners that might be taken ! Scott received the messenger politely, but the message with scorn; and said, "Tell your Commander to COME AND TAKE ME IF HE CAN. I'll be responsible forvIhe blood-thirsty Indians I"" battle of queenstown heights— an eloquent speech. It was on the Heights of Queenstown, in 1812, that Seott delivered his brief but memorable stump speech. He arrived upon the ground weary with rapid marches, and eager to join •- his brave companions in arms. The battle raged furiously, and column after column disappeared under a murderous fire from the enemy's battery, and brave officers and men made their dying coucTi where they were rocked by the storm of battle, and where their fevered temples were bathed in blood. Our little force, now reduced to six hundred, was entrusted to his command. He drew them up with their faces to the foe, and ca\mly awaited the assault. The fierce yell of five hundred savage Indians, hideously painted, mingled with the shouts of the British. regulars as they swept on to the assault. The tall form of Scott was a conspicuous target for the Indian rifles ; but it inspired his OAvn troops with unflinching courage. The enemy were again and again repulsed, and the ground strewed for many rods around with the dead and the dying. At length several reinforcements of British and Indians ar- rived upon the field, and swelled the enemy's numbers to 1,300 fighting men. Our little band had been reduced to three hun- hunred, and no succor was at hand. The American troops on the opposite side of the river gazed listlessly on the conflict, but steadfastly refused to cross the line. To retreat was what Win- field Scott had never studied nor lea.rned. Yet his brave spirit did not quail before the bristling steel of England, nor tremble beneath the uplifted tomahawk of the savage. Anxious faces were upturned to his, and for a moment the band of heroes was still. Scott mounted a log, and looking around him for a mo- ment on his brave companions, as if for the last time on earth, he said : " The enemy's balls have thinned our ranks. His NUMBERS are OVERWHELMING. DiRECTLY THE SHOCK MUST COME, AND THERE IS NO RETREAT. We ARE IN THE BEGINNING OF A National War. Hull's ignominious surrender must BE retrieved. Let us die, then, arms in hand. Our coun- try demands the sacrifice. The ex^Imple will not be lost. The blood of the slain will make heroes of the living. Who is ready for the .sacrifice?" " We are all ready," was the response. We may search in vain for eloquence more thrilling, for evidences of patriotism more conclusive, or for nobler, higher bravery than this. Human history does not and cannot furnish it. " Our country demands the sacrifice. The example will not be lost. The blood of the slain will make heroes of the living." SCOTT IS treacherously ATTACKED BY TWO SAVAGE CHIEFS. Scott was at length surrounded, overwhelmed with numbers, and taken prisoner. His high bearing and heroic deeds earned him the respect of the British ofiicers, and they held him in reluctant reverence. Not so with the savage chiefs who had thirsted for his blood. They sought for him, and while he was under guard in an Inn, a messenger came with the announcement that some one wished to speak to the " Tall American/ He advanced to the narrow passage to receive his visitors, and to his surprise encountered twa armed savages, hideously painted for battle. They had before attempted to slay him at the surrender on the Heights. He had proved invincible to their bullets, and they came to tomahawk him. In their rude manner they told him how many times they had aimed and fired at his heart. Under pretence of looking for ball marks, they seized his person, and springing back with the ferocity of tigers, exclaimed together, " We kill you now !" Scott, with that presence of mind and quickness of thought which has never forsaken him even in the darkest hour, seized a heavy sabre from under the old, staircase, and with uplifted blade dared them to strike. They cowered before him ; and with their savage weapons still poised in air, were summarily driven from the building by the British guard, which happily for them had been attracted by the noise, and at that moment appeared. RESCUES THE IRISH PRISONERS. The history of the rescue by General Scott of the Irish pris- oners taken at Queenstown is surely too familiar to every Ameri- can ear to need repetition. England, cruel and unrelenting as she always is in war, claimed the right to execute those who, having been born on her soil, were found in arms against her. General Scott disputed and contested this right, not only while a prisoner, but before his government. He told the British officers, that for every adopted American citizen thus found in arms, who should be hung in England, an equal number of British prisoners should be executed here ; and that he would give them no quarter in battle. No Irish soldier should suffer a dishonorable death, when he could sell his life so gloriously on the field of strife. Scott's word and policy were fully carried out, and not one of the twenty-three Irishmen sent to England were hung. They were released after the war, and (as if by a providential coincidence) returning to America, met their deliverer upon the wharf where they landed. They grasped his war-worn hand, while the tears of joy coursed down their cheeks of sternest man- hood. They had met a true friend. IS EXCHANGED, AND RETURNS TO NIAGARA. General Scott, having been exchanged as a prisoner of war, early in 1813 rejoined the American army at Fort Niagara, and soon after led his troops into that memorable fight which has so indissolubly connected his name with the battle and capture of Fort George. He formed his men into six columns on the beach beneatli the walls, and, as usual, led the advance. At first the Americans recoiled beneath the sudden and murderous fire from the enemy ; but,, recovering their ground, they rushed impetu- ously forward, pursuing the flying columns of the British now in full retreat. He assaulted the fort, forced the gates, and was himself the first to enter. Pressing impetuously forward at the head of his conquering column, with his own hand he seized the flag of England that was waving above the walls, and cut its fastenings with his sword. The garrison beat a hasty retreat, having first applied a match to the magazine, which exploded, scattering its ruins far and wide. Scott was badly wounded. The capture was complete, and though smarting under his injury, he hastily remounted, and pursued the flying enemy at the head of his detachment. A peremptory order from his commanding general only prevented him from taking prisoners the entire British force. SEVERAL IMPORTANT EVENTS. After leading an expedition against Burlington Heights and York, Scott organized a new army ; labored many months, with untiring zeal and purpose; crossed the Niagara frontier into Canada; took Fort Erie; and on the 5th July, 1841, routed the whole British force on the plain of Chippewa,. Some of the leading incidents of that battle are already given. The loss of the British in this engagement was a trifle less than one-fourth of their entire force. Scott's generalship was now firmly established. His own courage inspired his soldiers, and they followed his tall form and waving plume into the thickest battle, as though victory were a certain thing. They beheld in him the very elements of success. He always charged at the head of his column, while the heaps of the slain told too plainly where his sword had been. THE BATTLE OF LUNDY'S LANE. "'Tis the hand of the mighty that grasps the rein, Conducting the free and the fearless ; Ah, see them rush forward, with wild disdain, Through paths unfrequented and cheerless." The battle of Lundy's Lane confirmed the invincibility of our soldiers when led by Scott, and inspired new courage round every hearth-stone, and in every patriot heart in the land. The name of WiNFiELD Scott was upon every lip. But the victory at Lundy's Lane was not cheaply won. It was the Bunker Hill of the last war with England, except that the field remained in possession of the Americans. It was there that Scott was twice wounded, and in the moment of victory borne from the field 8 •pierced with biiftetS. That battle was perhaps the fiercest, grandest, ever fought in America. ^ The unceasing roar of the mighty flood of waters Which rdake the great cataract of Niagara, mingling with the thunder of cannon, the din of musketry, the clashing" of sabres, and the fierce conflict of bayonets as they crossed each other in their work of death, completed a scene sublime and terrible beyond description. A writer, who has well described the battle in detail, says : *' On the 25th July, Major General Brown, the commander in chief of the American forces in Canada, received the false intel- ligence that Riall had so far recovered from his late defeat at Chippewa as to throw across to the American shore, from Lewiston, a corps of 1,000 men. He immediately determined upon making a demonstration against the fort below, in order to compel Riall to return. Scott, at the head of his brigade, now reduced by his losses to about 1,300 men, immediately set forth on this errand. But he soon found himself with hotter work on hand. He had proceeded but about two miles when he fell upon a reconnoitering party of the enemy, and for the first time ascertained that a large body of their troops were posted in the immediate neighborhood. Pressing on, he came into the presence of a well-stationed force under General Riall, about 1,800 strong, who at once opened upon Scott a destructive fire of musketry and of nine pieces of artillery. The entire body of the enemy were drawn up on a ridge in order of battle. His right rested on a wood, and his. left on a road running parallel with the river. Directly in front, and between the combatants, lay Lundy's Lane. Scott discovered Boon after his arrival, that General Riall was being reinforced by three battalions under General Drummond, and that his num- bers had been swelled to about 3,000 men. " Finding himself thus surprised into a battle against such immense odds, he might well have determined to retire and await the arrival of reinforcements under General Brown before going into action. But with undaunted purpose he resolved to stand his ground. He, however, immediately dispatched an aid to Gen- eral Brown requesting him to hasten to his assistance. It was enow six o'clock in the afternoon. The quick eye of Scott dis- £.overing the opportunity, he immediately ordered General Jes- rj^up's battalion to turn the enemy's left flank. Under cover of atsout 200 yards of under-growth, which concealed the operation, Jessup accomplished his object in a brilliant manner, and not only cut ofi" the left wing of the enemy, but triumphantly broke through their ranks and returned into line, bearing off Major- General Riall and some other British officers .prisoners. The enemy, outflanking our troops on the right, made a powerful at- tempt, backed by murderous discharges of cannon, and favored by superior numbers, to turn our position. General Scott per- ceiving the attempt, and intent upon foiling so threatening a movement, despatched McNeil's battalion to repulse the enemy. A most obstinate eonflict, conducted upon both sides Avith great vehemence, followed. The assailants recoiled, and were punished with dreadful severity. Meantime the main battle of the two centi-es had joined and was fought Avith great fierceness. The American line sustained with unshaken valor the Avliole weight of the enemy's superior numbers, now precipitated upon them with furious impetuosity. Our gallant band, though suffering intensely, displayed unconquerable resolution. The command- ing presence and heroic example of their intrepid commander, who, regardless of all peril, Avith unwearied vigor, Avas foremost in every post of danger, nerved them to unparalleled efforts. The battalions of Scott on this occasion, before he was succored by General Brown, were dreadfully cut up. Night came on, and beneath the uncertain light of the moon, wading deep through the broken clouds, the desperate strife was continued. General Scott had had tAvo horses killed under him, and been Avounded in the side by a bullet. But in noAvise subdued, he rushed into the contest on foot, and continued to the end in the thickest of the fight. " The British infantry continued to pour their deadly fire upon our Aveakened ranks ; and their artillery, posted in a commanding position, on the crest of a neighboring height, which commanded the Avhole field of battle, at every discharge thundered death upon our devoted columns. At length, at nine o'clock at night, after three hours of this deadly struggle on the part of General Scott, General Brown arrived upon the ground Avith his reinforce- ment. The enemy, which, with vastly superior numbers, had barely withstood the determined bravery of General Scott's little army, and only maintained itself in the centre under the guns of the artillery, was now obliged to yield. The regiment of the heroic Miller was deputed to the perilous service of silencing the British battery on the heights. General Scott volunteered to lead the way, and did so, through the darkness, up to the point of attack. He then returned to favor Miller's movement, and made another onset upon the British line, in which his battalion suffered even more than before. After a series of desperate hand-to-hand encounters, Miller was successful, and the batteries were silenced. " Under the renewed furious charges of our troops the enemy were now forced to retire, and abandon the field to the Americans. In one of the last of these charges, just at the close of the action, amid terrible fighting, Scott Avas severely wounded, and had to be borne from the field. The battle was fought with desperate 10 energy on both sides, and tlie losses, considering the numbers engaged, were great. General Scott's brigade, upon which fell the brunt of the battle, lost 463 of its 1,300 men ; a far greater proportion of our troops than fell at Buena Vista. The total loss of the Americans in killed and wounded was 743. That of the British, 726." 1814 TO 1847. Our sketch must now be rapid. Great men live in deeds, not words. SCOTT GOES TO BUFFALO AND PHILADELPHIA. Wounded and weary, the Hero of Lundy's Lane was borne on a rude couch to Buffalo, and afterwards to Williamston and Geneva. The loss of blood . had left him weak, but his restless spirit could not bear inactivity, and he moved on towards Phila- delphia, that he might obtain the best surgical assistance. IS EVERYWHERE GRATEFULLY RECEIVED. He was received everywhere on the route with the highest honors, and enthusiastically welcomed by his grateful and ad- miring countrymen. ARRIVES AT WASHINGTON. He arrived at Washington in October, and was at once invested by President Madison with the responsible duty of planning the next year's campaign. The treaty of Ghent, ratified by our Government on the 15th February (1815) following, happily relieved him of this undertaking. IS OFFERED A SEAT IN MADISON'S CABINET. WiNFiELD Scott was now but twenty-eight years of age. His brilliant and successful campaign in Canada had retrieved the disgrace of Hull's surrender, and won for him the entire confi- dence of his Government, and particularly of President Madi- son, by whom he was tendered the post of Secretary of War and a seat in his Cabinet. Gen. Scott declined the honor and ease of this position, that he might serve his country in the field. GOES TO EUROPE. Meanwhile he went to Europe on a public mission. He con- ducted his negotiations with marked ability ; stored his mind with all that could be useful to our infant military system ; returned to his own country, and was placed in command of the eastern division of the army, with his headquarters at New York. 11 CONGRESS THANKS HIM. Congress passed a vote of thanks for his services in the field. It presented him with a large gold medal, inscribed with the names of "Chippewa," and "Niagaka," and bearing also his likeness. NEW YORK AND VIRGINIA THANK HIM. New York and Virginia passed votes of thanks to the Hero of Lundy's Lane and ChippcAva ; and each presented him with a sword of splendid finish, in token of their admiration of "A MILITARY CAREER REPLETE WITH SPLENDID EVENTS." ESTABLISHES OUR MILITARY SYSTEM. General Scott now devoted his time to study, and established our military system. His written works were published by order of Congress — the highest evidence of their ability. SYMPATHIZES DEEPLY WITH SOUTH AMERICA. He took a deep and active interest in the struggle of the South American republics for independence. He secured a military education at West Point to the three sons of General Paez, of Colombia, and sent them home to fight for the liberties of their country. THE BLACK HAWK WAR. In 1829, he visited Europe again on a tour of military obser- vation, and gleaned from their military system all that could be valuable to America. After some months he returned, and in 1832 was ordered by the War Department to take command of an army to subdue the savages under the celebrated Indian Chief "Black Haavk," on the Upper Mississippi. THE CHOLERA. He embarked at Buffalo with four steamboats, and one thou- sand men. The Asiatic Cholera — a scourge more terrible than the tomahawks and scalping-knives of the savage tribes — broke out among the troops, and swept nearly one-half the entire number into sudden and unlooked-for graves. Gloom, despair, and death seized upon the men, and every hour added to the number of the victims. Scott moved among them, performing the most disagreeable and dangerous ofiices with his OAvn hands — administering medicines, smoothing the pillow of death, and consigning their bodies to soldiers' graves. That proud form, so fierce and terrible in the blast of battle, was now melted to ten- derness, and gave to the world the evidences of a heart as warn^ and generous as it had ever been heroic. 12 MAKES TREATIES WITH INDIANS— IS CONGRATULATED BY CASS. Meanwhile, Black Hawk had been captured ; but Scott pro- ceeded to his place of destination, and made important treaties with the Sacs, Foxes, and Winnebagoes, and on his return received from General Cass, who was then Secretary of War under General Jackson, the following tribute : " Allow me to congratulate you, sir, upon this fortunate consummation of your ai-duous duties, and to express my entire approbation of the whole course of your proceedings, during a series of difficulties requiring higher moral courage than the operations of an active campaign, under ordinary circumstances. "LEWIS CASS." SETTLES THE SOUTH CAROLINA AND " OLD HICKORY" WAR. In 1832 South Carolina threatened to defy the laws of Con- gress, and resist by force and arms the federal officers. The iron will of Old Hickory was roused, and in his wrath he sent General Scott to teach them their duties, if need be, at the point of the bayonet. Scott undertook the task with alacrity, strongly backed up by General Jackson, who reposed in him the highest confidence. Providence watched over every movement ; and instead of fertilizing the soil of South Carolina with fraternal blood, Scott returned with the olive branch of peace. Had he failed in this mission, America, instead of being (what she now is) a great, prosperous, and free country, would in all human probability have become a reproach and a by-word to the world. Scott and Jackson saved the Union. is sent against the seminoles. In 1836 he was sent to Florida, and scoured that territory in search of the Seminoles. They eluded his pursuit. The Creeks in Georgia, meanAvhile, commenced war on the white people of that State, and General Scott was ordered there to put them down, Avhich he did with promptness. COMPLAINTS AT WASHINGTON. Complaints were made against him at Washington for private purposes, because he did not find the Seminoles in the swamps of Florida ; but a court of inquiry unanimously approved of his conduct,' and dismissed the charges with scorn. THE PATRIOT WAR, In 1837 an insurrectionary movement on our Canada border threatened to involve us in a war with England. The people of Canada were struggling to break the British yoke, and our people deeply sympathized with them. A British force had invaded our soil, and sent the steamer 13 Caroline in flames (and, as it was supposed, with Americans on board) over the Falls of Niagara. Public vengeance was aroused, and retaliations were fully determined on. The British had block- aded the river with two armed vessels, and threatened to fire upon the American steamer " Barcelona" should she pass. A cannon on the American side was loaded, and pointed, with a match at hand; the " Barcelona," was coming slowly up; and the first gun was the signal for war. The tall form of Scott appeared on the bluff overlooking the scene, and for a moment all was still. The Barcelona passed up; the British did not fire; and the blood that was to have opened the war flowed on in its current of life. A note from General Scott to the commander of the British vessels had prevented the execution of their threats, and saved the country millions of treasure and thousands of its citizens. REMOVES THE CHEROKEES. In 1838 General Scott removed the Cherokee Indians from the States of Georgia, North Carolina, Alabama, and Tennessee, west of the Mississippi. They numbered some 15,000, and though bound by treaty, had refused to leave. Scott's kindness and hu- manity subdued them. They struck their tents and took up the weary line of march for their distant homes, where the white man should not molest them. Rev. Dr. Channing, in a lecture on war in 1838, speaking of the removal of the Cherokees, said: "Much, also, is due to the beneficent influence of General Scott. To this distinguished man belongs the honor of uniting with military energy and daring the spirit of philanthropist. His exploits in the field, which placed him in the first rank of soldiers, have been obscured by the purer and more lasting glory of a pacificator, and a friend of mankind. In the whole history of the intercourse of civilized communities, we doubt whether a brighter page can be found 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 policy as by the nobleness, by the earnest conviction with which he has enforced, on all with whom he had to do, the obligations of pa- triotism, justice, humanity, and religion. It would not be easy to find among us a man who has won a purer fame." IS SENT EY VAN BUREN TO PREVENT A BOUNDARY WAR. In 1839 General Scott was sent by Mr. Van Burcn to settle the difficulties growing out of the disputed boundary between Maine and New Brunswick. Through his instrumentality the belligerent forces — already in the field and impatient for action — were withdrawn, and the boundary was run by the pen instead of the sword. It was here he earned the title of Pacificator. IS MADE COMMANDER IN CHIEF. In 1841 General Scott was made Commander in Chief of THE American Army, which commission he still holds. SCOTT SENT BY PRESIDENT POLK TO CONaUER MEXICO. The annexation of Texas to the United States exasperated the Mexicans to deeds of violence on the borders of the Rio Grande, and embittered the national feeling on both sides. A portion of the Mexican army invaded our territory and shed "American BLOOD ON American soil."* The President of the United States, with the most commendable promptness, declared war to exist by act of Mexico. The news spread quickly through the country on the telegraphic wires, and aroused the public mind to a high state of excitement. DiflFerent opinions as to the necessity of war ex- isted ; but they were soon forgotten in the struggle which followed. General Zachary Taylor, in command of the army of occu- pation, was suddenly beset, early in 1846, by a large body of Mexicans under General Arista. On the 8th of May, 1846, while the American forces, 2,300 strong, were on the march from Point Isabel, they were suddenly met at Palo Alto by 6,000 Mexicans. After a fierce battle of five hours, the Mexican army retreated before the well-directed fire of General Taylor's guns, and left him in possession of the field. On the 9th General Tay- lor met and routed the enemy at Resaca de la Palma. The enemy was totally routed, and in addition to their killed and wounded, they lost eight pieces of artillery, large quantities of ammunition, and one general. The news of the two victories aroused the war spirit of the American people, and sent thousands of the bravest of our young men into the field to conquer or to die. The battle of Buena Vista and the storming of Monterey added new lustre to our arms, and covered the name of Zachary Taylor with glory. Tlie people attested their gratitude for his services in his elevation to the highest civil office in their gift, or in the world. SCOTT GOES TO MEXICO— TAKES VERA CRUZ AND THE CASTLE, In the meantime, it was evident that Mexico was neither hum- bled nor reduced. A new campaign was necessary. Her capital * The President's view of th'e case. 15 must be taken and her army crippled before she would consent to talk of peace. General Scott, who had hitherto been impatiently waitmg m Washington for orders, left on the 24th of November, 1846, for the theatre of action, with the same plan of war that he had drawn up and submitted to the President months before. Time proved THE UNERRING ACCURACY OF HIS CALCULATIONS. He arrived at the Rio Grande early in January following, and dividing General Taylor's army of 18,000 men, he took 8,000 with him to Vera Cruz by sea. He was shortly reinforced by 4,000 new troops, and the two forces combined at the island of Lobos. From this point the squadron sailed with 12,000 men. General Scott himself was on board the steamship Massachusetts. The proud steamer passed through the fleet as if conscious of the freight she bore ; the tall form of the Old Chieftain towered high above every other on the deck, and the shouts of thousands from the fleet conveyed to his heart the confidence of his daring soldiers. On the 9th of March the whole army was landed, without a single accident, on the beach within sight of Vera Cruz and the famous castle of San Juan d'Ulloa. This of itself is an achieve- ment unparalleled in the history of military operations of its character and kind, and reflects unfading glory on the head that planned, and the hand by which it was executed. General Scott reconnoitered the enemy's defences in person, and posted the army and fleet for the siege and bombardment. The lines of siege were five miles in length. The trenches were opened with the greatest rapidity, and everything was done quietly and in the most perfect order. The heavy guns of the castle opened their fire upon the persevering besiegers, but to little purpose. Not a shot was wasted on our side until the batteries were planted. On the 22d, thirteen days after landing. General Scott had completed his preparations for attack. He offered a free-conduct out of the city to all non-combatants, (which was generally refused, so great was the confidence in the strength of the city's defences,) and summoned the governor to surrender. The governor refused. The American batteries now opened a terrible fire upon the besieged city, while the ships poured their broadsides into the castle with murderous accuracy. The scene was magnificent and terrible beyond description. For three days and nights incessant discharges were continued, and our batteries vomited death and destruction upon the city and castle. The sea and the land were illuminated by the blazing shells, which, circling through the air, fell and burst within the walls. The domes of cathedrals, and the roofs of dwellings were shivered and torn by the ex- plosions which followed the discharge from every mortar, and the - 16 city reeled beneath the terrible assault. Science, military skill, and determined bravery, were doing their worst. Scott had cal- culated the Avork before him, and was coolly performing it. After three days of terrible work the European consuls in the city applied to General Scott to suspend hostilities until they could retire with the women and children. He replied that he had offered them every facility to make their escape, had warned them of the danger, and oflered to protect them; 'that the hard- ships of women and children had been considered before a single gun was fired ; and having refused safety while it was iri^ their power, they must abide the consequences. It was evident that the defence could not long hold out. On the 26th, General Scott made arrangements to carry the city by assault. Early in the day, however, the Mexican commander made overtures of surrender. Commissioners were appointed, and the firing ceased. Late in the night of the 27th, articles of capitulation were signed and exchanged, and the stars and stripes were thrown to the breeze, and waved in triumph over the City and Castle ! During the siege, our batteries had thrown over IIALF A MIL- LION OF POUNDS OF SHOT AND SHELLS ! By the terms of capitulation, 5,000 prisoners surrendered on parole; 500 splendid pieces of artillery were taken; the best port in Mexico fell into our hands ; while the famous Castle of San Juand'Ulloa — the Gibraltar of America — yielded its frown- ing battlements and its heavy defences to Winfield Scott. Our own loss was but six killed and sixty Avounded. The whole country was so much astonished by the news of this achievement that the first reports Avere not believed. Scott's ofiicial dispatches soon furnished the confirmation. Europe Avas no less astonished than our own country, and the name of ScOTT Avas noAvl>ere mentioned but Avith admiration. LEAVES VERA CRUZ FOR MEXICO. The campaign was now auspiciously begun. With eight thou- sand men General Scott left Vera Cruz, and pushed on for the Halls of the Montezumas. After three days' march, he reached the foot of the mountain- pass of Cerro Gordo, whose summits were covered by fifteen thousand Mexicans, strongly fortified by heavy batteries. The quick eye of Scott saw every obstacle, and enabled him to plan the attack Avitli the most prophetic accuracy. A detachment of the army Avere ordered to cut a road around the mountain, which Avas accomplished unperceived by Santa Anna. Assaults were made from different points, Avith the most heroic energy ; and 17 tlio enemy were forced from their guns- at the point of the bayo- net. The rout was total and comj>letc. Santa Anna himself barely escaped on a mule, leaving one of his legs behind him. The Americans pressed on after the flying foe, until they halted at Jalapa. The fruits of this victory were three thousand pris- oners, forty-three pieces of bronze artillery of splendid finish, five thousand stand of arms, with five generals, and immense quantities of munitions and materials of war. General Scott himself was in the thickest of the fight, and shared the dangers with his men. If t^jye victory- was great, the loss was severe. The heroic Shields was shot through the lungs, and many of the best officers of the army were among the slain. General Scott paid every attention to Shields which sympathy for his sufferings could suggest, and a firm and lasting friendship exists between them as the result. At Jalapa General Scott addressed a proclamation to the Mexican people, full of wise admonition and generosity. The closing paragraph foreshadows, with prophetic earnestness, the great results which so quickly followed. He says : " I AM MARCHING WITH MY ARMY ON PUEBLA AND MeXICO I DO NOT CONCEAL IT ; FROM THOSE CAPITALS I SHALL AGAIN ADDRESS YOU." These words were indeed prophetic ! In a few weeks he en- tered in triumj)h the city of the ancient Mexican monarchs ! After the capture of Jalapa and the surrender of Perote, the army advanced towards the city of Mexico, dispersed 3,000 Mexican cavaby under Santa Anna, and entered Puebla, where it was delayed by an unwise movement of the government at home, from the 15th of May until the 7th of August. With 10,700 men. General Scott at length moved upon the great road to the City. All connexion with the Coast was cut off, and all chance of retreat utterly hopeless. Before him lay a hostile city of 200,000 inhabitants, with every means of defence, and strengthened by an army well-appointed, 30,000 to 40,000 strong. On the 14th of August, The City was in full sight, and pre- sented to our army a most magnificent spectacle. They looked upon it with feelings of indescribable emotion, while the perilous- ness of their own position added to the novelty of the scene before them. By a skillful movement General Scott abandoned the road which he took from Puebla, and threw his army by the shores of the lake to the Pacific road on the other side, and established his headquarters nine miles from the city, at San Augustine. Santa Anna, with 30,000 men, surrounded the capital in two 2 18 lines of strong fortifications, and was fully prepared for the last and most desperate resistance. Sax Antonio, Contreras, and CiiUKUBUSCO lay between the besiegers and the city, and were strongly fortified by heavy artillery, and garrisoned by the bravest of the Mexican army. A writer who has described these scenes with a vivid pen, says : "" * " The 17th, 18th, and 19th of Aiigust had been'^passod in laborious efforts to acqiiire a full knowledge of the enemy's position, and lay the foundations for an effective attack. The 19th especially had been passed in severe exertions of the officers and men. Several skirmishes had taken j)lace, and an action of three hours -with the force on the hill of Contreras had been terminated without any marked result. The troops liad worked and suffered. To add to the dis- couragement of the day, the rain began to fall, and the night closed chill, wet, and dreary. It was passed in suffering and deep anxiety. The troops got no res't, but stood crowded together, drenched and benumbed, waiting for daylight. The officers met at the quarters of General Scott. , " There was despondency and apprehension. ' But,' saj'S an eye-witness, ' the confidence of all was restored by the great coolness and steadiness of the com- mander in chief. As the officers came in from the field, wet, fatigued, and weary, he made them all partake of a cheerful repast. His bearing was most noble. It exalted the spirits of all present.' " BATTLE OF CONTRERAS. " The attack on Contreras had been admirably planned by the commander-in- chief, and on the morning of the 20th, at three o'clock, it was assailed in front and rear. The position was defended by General Valencia, commanding 7,000 of the veteran troops of Mexico. But so effectively had our forces been disposed, and so sudden and vehement was the attack, that the enemy was driven headlong from his entrenchments in an incredibly short space of time. In this engage- ment, 4,500 of American troops drove 7,000 Mexicans out of their strongholds, and pursued them with immense slaughter. The results of the battle were gigan- tic. Seven hundred of the enemy were killed, and eight hundred taken prison- ers. Twenty-two pieces of artillery were captured, besides seven hundred mules, and an immense quantity of small arms, shot, shells, and ammunition. But the chief brilliancy of the achievement consisted in the superior skill and strategy displayed by General Scott in planning and execiiting it. The loss of the Amer- icans waS' but sixty killed and wounded. FALL OF SAN ANTONIO. " The storming of Contreras enabled our troops to turn the enemy's rear at San Antonio, and opened the way to the village of Churubusco, five miles distant. The garrison of San Antonio, instead of awaiting an attack, immediately evacu- ated their position, after witnessing the capture of Contreras, and hastened to fall back upon Churubusco." GREAT BATTLE OF CHURUBUSCO. "The scattered forces of the enemy, driven from Conti-eras and San Antonio, had concenti-ated themselves upon Churubusco, in aid of that strong and import- ant position. Other troops had also flocked to it, and Santa Anna's entire dis- posable force was entrenched in and near that village. At least twenty-five thou- sand Mexicans, strongly posted, here awaited the onset of our army. As the American troops moved to the attack, a most terrific fire was opened upon them both by the infantry and artillery, along the whole extended line of the enemy. Several of the advanced companies of artillery, being precipitated upon a prin- cipal point of the defence, (San Pablo,) were almost entirely swept away by th» Id tremendous cannonade they had to encounter. Torrents of flame rolled dowu from the enemy's fortifications, ravaginc; our ranks Avith a deluge of slaughter. For more than* three hours was the great tide of battle successfully resisted by the enemy. Their murderous fire was, hoAvever, returned by our troops with un- flagging energy and desperate resolution. The attack was at length pressed with such impetuosity that the Mexican left began to wayer. Lieutenant Colonel Scott, heading two regiments of infantry, here made a furious assa\ilt upon the strongest of the enemy's works, (tet6-de-pont,) and carried it at the point of the bayonet, after a most obstiiuite conflict. The main body of the Mexican infantry Boon after gave way before the assailants. "Still one portion of the field was contested with fierce determination. But all resistance finally succumbed before the irresistible valor of our troops. As the last stronghold of the enemy yielded. General Scott, who had been wounded in the action by a grape-shot, made his appearance in that quarter, and was greeted with deafening cheers by his brave troops, now triumphant at all points. This memorable battle began soon after noon, and did not end till sunset. The loss of the Americans, in killed, wounded, and missing, was 1,05G. That of the Mexicans was 4,000 in killed and wounded, and 2,637 prisoners. It is conceded by the best military authorities that this decisive victory was chiefly owing to the prompt and masterly arrangements of the commander-in-chief, both before and during the engagement, and that to him, therefore, belongs the principal credit of this most glorioxis achievement of the American arms. But besides the mili- tary skill exhibited on the Avhole of this bloody day, ending with this terrible battle. General Scott displayed all the fire and heroic temper of his youth. The brilliant genius and courage that impelled his great efforts at Chippewa and Lundj'^s Lane here blazed out afresh, with renewed lustre. The contagion of his example of lofty courage and impetuous enthusiasm spread through and fired the whole army. Never did General Scott's noble appearance and conduct produce a greater influence upon his men than on this memorable day. Mounted on a fiery charger, in the midst of his conquering troops, directing in person all the brilliant evolutions of the various divisions of the army, dashing from column to column amid the carnage of battle and the shouts of the victors, and dispatching his orders in all directions with unparalleled celerity ; the illustrious commander- in-chief, covered with the smoke and dust of battle, and wounded in the desperate strife, was regarded by all as the guardian genius of the hour, the protecting aegis of the army, the unconquerable hero who was never vanquished, whose banners never trailed in defeat, but tlie sword of whose mighty arm always led the way to triumphant victory."' SCOTT GRANTS AN ARMISTICE. " General Scott, by his brilliant movements before the city of Mexico, and by his subsequent decisive victories at Contreras and Churubusco, had displayed all the qualities of a gallant officer and a great military commander. He had opened the way to the city, and could have entered it sword in hand on the evening of the victory on the bloody field of Churiibusco. But he now exhibited all the noble qualities of a generous and magnanimous mind. lie refrained from pursuing the manifest advantages he had gained, and granted an armistice to the enemy. He desired to save the further effusion of blood, and the city from the horrors of assault. " Santa Anna, however, with characteristic perfidy, only made use of Geaeral Scott's forbearance to strengthen the defences of the city, and to arouse the people to arms. " On the 6th of September, General Scott, having failed in his humane efforts to prevent the further waste of life, gave notice that the armistice would termi- nate on the following day, and made preparations to attack the city." BATTLE OF MOLINO DEL REY. " Santa Anna had now stationed himself with his remaining forces on the outskirts of the city, at or near the iJill of Cbepultepec. This hill was very 20 ■Irongly fortified, and ctinimandud the city, as well as several of its principal approaches. Its sides were craggy and precipitous, excepting the ascent from the city. On its summit stood a stone fortress, of immense size and strength, called the Castle. At its foot were strong defences. Among them was the "King's Mill," (Molino del Rey,) a large stone building, with thick and high walls, and towers at the ends. About fom' hundred yards distant stood another thick-walled stone building, called the Casa dc Mala. Strongly posted at and about these two points, and between them, hiy the army of Santa Anna, 14,000 strong. General Scott discerning that the "King's Mill" was employed as a founch-y for the piu'pose of casting cannon to be used in the defence of the city, determined to attack and destroy it, and break up the enemy's position prepara- tory to the storming of Chepultepec. The assault was intrusted to General Worth, who accomplished it in the most gallant manner, on the 8th of September, but not without frightful loss. The positions at the King's Mill and Casa de Mata were defended with obstinate bravery, and only yielded at length to the desperate valor of our troops, who poiu-ed in under a hideous tempest of bullets and sulphvir, and carried the works. " The victory, glorious as it was, was purchased at a ruinous sacrifice. It ■was, next to Liuidy's Lane, one of the bloodiest battles recorded in American history. Nearly onc-fo.urth of Worth's whole corps were cither killed or wuiuided. The American force engaged was 3,447, to 14,000 of the enemy. The Ameri- cans lost, in killed and wounded, 787. " Having accomplished his purpose. General Scott withdrew his troops to their quarters, and prepared to finish the reduction of the city by the captiu'e of Chepultepec, the site of the ancient palaces of the Mexican monarchs." " On the morning of the 12th of September, General Scott, having placed his heavy batteries, opened them upon the castle that crowned the summit of tho hill of Chepultepec, whither the enemy had retreated, and where he was now posted in full force. With the capture of this strong and commanding position, the city was destined to falL Tho entire day was occupied in a tremendous cannonade on both sides. Tho spectacle was fearful. Our heavy ordnance thundered their point-blank shot through the walls of the castle with amazing force and precision. The mortars and howitzers belched their destructive mis- siles upon all parts of the fortress. Bombs burst in fury within the works. Every shell tore up the ramparts. The fire of the enemy was scarcely less furious. Night closed the scene. Early in the day of the 13th the signal for an assault by two detachments already detailed for the service, was given, and our brave troops moved forward to the attack. The stony and precipitous acclivi- ties were but slowly mounted, yet the advance of the columns was unwavering, though made under the hottest discharge of cannon and musketry. The first redoubt was carried amid loud acclamations. Pressing steadily on, our troops overcame the most determined resistance, dislodged the enemy at every point, and swept up the hill with prodigious energy, in the face of a desolating fire. Surrounding the castle on its crest, was a deej) cUtch, and stone walls 12 to 15 feet in height. Scaling-ladders were planted, and over these formidable ram- parts, under a sheet of flame, our men poured with fierce intrepiiEty, filling the castle and overwhelming its defenders, who steadily and fiercely resisted to the last. The stars and stripes were flung out from its huge walls, while long-con- tinued shouts and cheers announced its fall, and the entrance of the American army into the regal halls of the Montezumas. In the language of General Scott, 'No scene could have been more animating and glorious.' Yet was the victory dearly purchased, by a further loss from our gallant corps of 800 killedt and wounded." ENTRANCE INTO THE CITY OF MEXICO. " The shouts that rent tlie air carried consternation to the enemy, and annoimced the impending fall of the city below. General Scott had arrived on the walls of the castle just as it had been carried, and after a glance at the position of things, determined at once to advance by two routes into the city. The columns of Quit- man and Worth were ordered to move forward in separate detachments. Worth's 21 V division became engaged in a street fight in the subui-bs, but forced its way and took vip its quarters close upon the city. Quitmsin advanced still further on another road, and after sonic hard figUtin,!?, ciic:uni)cd within the gates. On the whole of this eventful and glorious day Scott liad displayed wonderful activity, and had been at all points where he could best give directions, animate tliO troops, or share in the conflicts of his Brave comrades. In every place he ex- hibited the coolest self-command, united with the greatest vigilance and ardor. And now, as heretofore, in all the movements by which Mexicf) had at lengtli fallen into his grasp, he manifested a prudential care, a sagacious foresight, an unconquerable heroism, as well as the highest military genius. "DurinT tlie night, Santa Anna, fiudiug all further resistance vain, withdrew the remnant of his army from the city, and on the m(U-ning of the 14th our troops entered the Grand Tlaza. The American flag was hoisted from the top of the National Talace, and at the same moment. General Scott, dressed in full uniform, at the head of his staff", rode through the victorious columns, amidst the vociferous acclamations of the conquerors, while the band of the Second Regiment of Dragoons struck up the inspiring air of Yankee Dooule." SCOTT IS GOVERNOR OF THE CITY OF MEXICO— A SPLENDID OFFER. With only six thousand troops General Scott undertook the government of the city, composed of 200,000 hostile inhabitants, with the remnants of the Mexican army lurking in its vicinity. It was a hazardous, no less than an arduous experiment. Yet under his even and certain dispensation of justice, order took the place of anarchy ; confidence returned ; and the Mexican people, sccura in the novelty of a good government, ofiered the man by whom they had been conquered A million and a quarter of dollars in hand, AND THE Presidency of the Mexican Repuijlic. With more than Eoman firmness. General Scott refused the glittering offer, to return to his own country as a prisoner by order of his own government. A nobler exhibition of patriotism than this is not recorded on any living page of human history. It sheds the brightest lustre on the name of Winfield Scott, and will bo remembered with the deeds of Washington in ail future tim^e as among the loftiest examples of patriotism of the Republic's earlier days. GENERAL SCOTT IS STRIPPED OF IIIS COMMAND BY PRESIDENT POLK.— THE ATTEMPT TO DISGRACE HIM A FAILURE. Strong efforts Avere made at Washington, as soon as the war broke out, to prevent General Scott's assignment to the command of the invading army. That Mr. Polk's earlier intentions to appoint him were good, there can be little doubt ; but partisan friends flocked about him, and filled his ear with partisan schemes. The war, said they, is made by a Democratic Administration, and it is but fair that Democrats should reap the glory. Mr. Treadway, a representative in Congress from the State of Vii^ginia, admitted, in a public speech in the House of Representatives, that he was among the number who tvent to the President privately and 22 protested against General Scott's a}ypointment to the command of the army. His speech may be found in the official reports of Congress. Other gentlemen made similar admissions. It was not strange, then, that General Scott did not find that hearty sup- port from his own government which an invading general with a small army so sorely needs. The American people became clamorous for General Scott to take the field. The administration, under the pressure of this feeling from Avithout, and anxious for the successful termination of the war, at length ordered General Scott- to Mexico; the Pres- ident in person assuring him of his entire confidence and support. General Scott accordingly left in November. On the 29th of December folloAving, the President sent to the Senate a special message asking for the appointment of " a general officer to take command of our military forces in the field," and who was intended to supersede General Scott. Colonel Benton, of Missouri, a Senator in Congress, and a man without military experience, was to be appointed by Mr. Polk to fill the place. The counti-y was astounded at the proposition, and the measure was opposed by nearly all the leading statesmen in Congress. After a most determined struggle on the part of the President and his friends, it was lost. The President next attempted to make Colonel Benton a lieu- tenant general over General Scott, in spite of Congress. There was no law to authorize such a step ; and had he taken it, im- peachment would certainly have followed. It was therefore abandoned. On the 13th January, 1848, while General Scott was in pos- session of the enemy's capital, the Secretary of War, Mr. Marcy, ordered General Scott to turn over his command to General Butler, and to appear before a court martial, upon frivolous charges preferred by inferior officers, who were themselves guilty of misconduct, and subject to trial. The American army was outraged by this order. Grief and amazement were visible on evei'y countenance. The various regiments surrounded the head- quarters of their Old Chieftain with badges of mourning. They were filled with vengeance against the accusers, and were ready for any step. The people were everywhere roused to in- dignation, and the conduct of the President was strongly con- demned. General Scott laid down his command without a murmur, and appeared front to front with his accusers. They could find not a shadow of proof against him. The court adjourned in April to meet again in the City of Frederick. It met in Frederick. It had now grown so odious to the country that its proceedings were gladly dropped, and never mentioned afterwards by those who were iiijitrumeiitul in their creation, without evidences of conscious shame and confusion. There is n6 room here to dwell on the ingratitude of this last act of a locg list of persevering efforts to degrade and disgrace the Hero jHio had won such imperishable glory. What justification can be offered by the guilty persecutors ? What atonement can be made f^r their offences ? Here is a question for thought — for deep, isarnest, and sober reflection. WiNFTEiiD Scott has written his devotion to his country with his own htbod on her battle-fields, from the Falls of Niagara to the Gates )f Mexico. He has given a long life to her service in the council and the camp; has covered her arms and her flag with impeiishable glory, and won a name no less hers than his own. Hd has made peace, and saved her millions of treasure and thousands of brave men. He has refused the most tempting bribes ever offered to man, and amid the bitterest persecutions and the basest ingratitude, even at the moment of his greatest achievements, has stood by her with a devotion which death only could conquer. In the language of another, " the night that he laid his gray hairs on his prisoner's pillow, witnessed a nobler deed than the day that looked on his most victorious battle-field." END. 24 From the N. Y. Veekiy TriV THE BATTLE OF NIAGARA. ~ ^ Along -where wild Niagara Sends up its ceaseless roar, There came a glittering army, All in the days of yore ; Saint George's Cross was flaunting With many a haughty fold, On gorgeous banners woven, With woof of shining gold. Their ranks, bright-hued with scarlet. Were ranged in proud array. And war-steeds, gaily prancing, Led on the glorious way ; And jeweled hilts were flashing. And waving pities were there, And biirsts of miiTtial music Rang on the morning air. Lo ! from the land of freedom Brave yeomanry there came, Whofouglit not for dominion. Nor yet for fleeting fame ; ..With hearts ■^|ijJ^Jspi^w.,no quailing J'^'Before the pageant throng, And sinews that Oppression Had rendered- doubly strong. The mid-day saw them gathered In battle's stern array, The waning hours beheld them Still fierce amid tlie fray ; All warmly ebbed the life-tide From many a throbbing vein, And writhing forms were trampled Upon the gory plain. The siin, that set in glory Amia the wreathing oloud, A moment paused, and painted Th.at death-field on his sliroud ; And then his bright eye faded, And, calmly, on his breast He wrapped his robe of crimson, And sank away to rest. The houro of evening gathered Swift on the daylight's close ; Clad in her misty garments The pale, wan moon arose ; Her dim light fell but faintly And fitfully between The rolling of the war-clouds That wrapped the fearful scene. She saw the dying struggle With agonizing throes. And in their sleep eternal Beheld the dead repose : Here, by his gun, the soldier Lay stiff upon the plain, And there the death-cold rider Still grasped the bloody jei\. I Night deepened, dark andilo< 'n;'„ Upon the battle-field. And bayonets still were clashi .f, And still the cannon pealed There was no light to giiiclv' il oij Save, like the meteor's '^vj Red death-flames, wildly le;/.p Along the miu'ky air. Then charged Columbia's fr-it For liberty and right, Then stormed brave Millbk, "■ The cannon-planted heigi* Then, 'neath his starry ba: The gallant Scott below. Swept, with his trusty folic '- Upon the wavering foe. The midnight stars looked ■ n; i -~. Above the gory bed. Where gallant forms were s iet>^ping, Now numbered with the iend ; There was no din of battle, Nor music's martial strain But the still, cold air breathed gentlj- Along the dewy plain. The Warrior, deadly wounded, Thought of his home, and wept ; Upon his couch the weary Sank heavily and slept ; , The sentinel, slow pacing. Heard not a sound o'er all, But the deep voice of NiagJii'a, In its eternal fall. 'Tis past ! No more shall csrr : i With warm blood damp the i 't. Contending armies never Shall struggle there agair No more, in battle deadly. Shall the loiid cannon's n Be lieard with jiealing echo Along Niagara's shore. 0, proudly let us cherish The memory of those Who, for our rights, are sle ir, In death's long, deep repc All honor to the living, -f Who for their country ble ^ J^,- And ever bright the laurels "'■ Upon The Chieftain's h< « V/ ^^