Page:A series of intercepted letters in Mexico.djvu/35

 are circulated. Mother, God of Heaven alone can assist us in our trouble. Things are in a terrible state. His Divine Majesty has sent these devils to punish us for our sins. These are the fruits of our domestic quarrels, for only by this could these devils have so scorned a nation, but it is very difficult for them to conquer us. I again reiterate my love and affection to   (family people).

(From a Young Lady)

Aug. 21, 1847.

My much-loved Uncle:—Considering that you would be uneasy on our account under present circumstances, I write to relieve your mind. Everything is lost, and I believe there is no hope left for us. Day before yesterday Valencia had a fight with the enemy near Contreras, and it was supposed he was victorious; but the next morning he lost everything.—Yesterday some national guards, at San Antonio, had a small fight, and the Battalions of Hidaglo and Victoria ran like cowards, as also did the cavalry and the 11th and 3d light infantry.

(The Battalions of Hidaglo and Victoria, also those of Independence and Bravo, were called Polkas, and were composed of the more independent citizens of Mexico. The two first were ordered to retire from San Antonio and did not engage in the fight. The two last were at Churubusco and were taken prisoners, those that were not killed. This is the Mexican account in many letters.)

This is a strange fatality, and it seems that our troops are good for nothing but to boast. I only hear them cry "there come the yankees" overcome with terror and running a whole league without stopping to take breath; from which fact I have no hope that resistance can be made at the garitas, as is intended. You will see what will happen if a defence is attempted; they "will all run and there their history will end.

Ruperto saved himself, as he had the luck to run away in company with the Victorias, and he is now safe with his dear aunt and quite tranquil.

It appears impossible that 12,000 men under the command of Scott should put to flight and entirely cowed 32,000 of our men.

[The American army was less than 10,000, and there were not over 7,000 in the fight.]

It confounds reason. It is opposite to reason and almost incredible, but nevertheless true. This misfortune has no remedy, and the affair must soon end, as we can do nothing.

Do not believe the thousand lies our troops may tell and of