Page:Complete history of the late Mexican war.djvu/24

20 there against our occupying the country. The general told them that he would answer them at Matamoras. Defences were ordered to be constructed at the Point and Major Monroe appointed Commander of the port. March 25th, General Worth proceeded three miles farther, to Palo Alto and waited for General Taylor. March 28th, the army moved towards Matamoras, which is on the Rio Grande, arriving opposite the city about 11 A. M. Two of our advanced guard were taken prisoners by the Mexicans, and the horse of a boy who was a bugler; which excited our men considerably. About two hundred Mexicans were to be seen and their colours flying in various places. General Worth was ordered to answer the deputation which visited Gen. Taylor at Point Isabel. The Mexicans for some time would not send a boat across the river: but at last one came with an officer. General Worth sent him back saying that he wished to see the commanding officer. Gen. Mejia said that he would neither receive General Worth or General Taylor's communication. Mejia sent General La Vega and Worth crossed the river and the interview took place on the Mexican side. La Vega said that the Mexicans considered us as invaders. Nothing of importance was accomplished by the interview. A flag was soon raised by our army on the banks of the Rio Grande. It was thought that the Mexican force, at this post was fifteen hundred. March 26th it was feared that our forces would be attacked at night and they were ordered to sleep upon their arms. Capt. May with a squadron of the 2nd Dragoons marched to Point Isabel (27 miles) in four hours to reinforce the garrison. On the first of April Gen. Taylor demanded the release of the captured Dragoons and they were returned with their equipments. It is surprising that several of our men deserted and went over to the enemy. Some of