Page:A series of intercepted letters in Mexico.djvu/58

 The scene of Cerro Gordo has been repeated exactly, and that, too, when the tactics of the enemy, of commencing an action in the evening to strike a finishing blow the next morning, was well known. This time Valencia remained in his positions and Santa Anna abandoned him, retiring to San Angel, and Valencia found himself attacked by double his numbers.

4 o'clock, —A little after 12 firing was heard in San Antonio, and lasted about an hour and a half, and after a short pause, it was heard much nearer, which by all signs appears to be in Churubusco. About 2 o'clock I directed my steps towards San Antonio, Abad [the Garita,] where there was seen a numerous crowd. The sight which presented it-. self at this place and in all the streets of the Raspro was horrible: all was full of dispersed soldiers, carts, shrieking women and devils. The battalions of Hidalgo and Victoria, with four pieces, were in the plazuela of San Lucas when I arrived. Some of those with whom I spoke said that Santa Anna had betrayed them, that at San Antonio, when it was least expected, they were orderadordered [sic] to retreat, and that, except four pieces brought away, they had spiked their guns, that Santa Anna had remained at Churubusco with the division of Perez and the battalions of Independence and Bravo.

It is said that the last cannon shots v/ere in the Candelaria (at the garita of San Antonio) and were directed against a party of the enemy's cavalry, who retired in consequence.—This occurrence, and the cessation of firing, indicates the loss of San Antonio, Churubusco, and Mexicalcingo, and that probably Santa Anna is a prisoner or has made a capitulation. According to some, the nationals are situated in the Nino Perdido; according to others, in the gate of Belin. It is said that the brigade of Rangel has returned to the city—the brigade of Herrera, that was at the Penon, I saw enter about half past 11, and take the route towards the public walls. It is probable they are destined for Chapultepec or Tacubaya.

All, in my opinion, is entirely useless, because, with or without reason, Santa Anna is generally accused of treason!—What then can be hoped for?

I only know of the death of Pedrigan; a soldier said he had seen him with two shots, one in the loins and one in the ribs. A great many wounded have come in, and 40 went to San Andres, according to the account of the surgeon, who lives there.

I am going out to investigate what happens! what mortal anguish!

6 o'clock.—Returned from the palace; a great many