Page:Complete history of the late Mexican war.djvu/65

Rh once or twice, out were driven back every time in confusion. Firing had now nearly ceased; but one struggle more was to come. Santa Anna, being reinforced by cavalry, under cover of artillery, charged our line in a most desperate manner, by horse and foot. Great masses came rushing on, and poured among us a deadly fire. The 2nd Kentucky, 1st Illinois, and O'Brien, with two pieces, received the severest part of the attack. The infantry supporting.O'Brien's piece was routed and their piece left in the hands of the enemy.

Our batteries, however, finally turned the tide. Their fire was so firm, precise and awful, that the enemy could not resist, and fell back in disorder. Harden and McKee, charged the enemy with great bravery and impetuosity. They' fled, but seeing the few pursuing, turned suddenly and came up in vast numbers. There was dreadful carnage on both sides. We had but a mere handful compared with the enemy, and our men were again routed, and it seemed that we must be beaten. Brent and Whiting of Washington's battery covered their retreat.

General Taylor looked on calmly and unmoved, while the balls were flying all around him.

Bragg's battery had now reached the place of attack. Bragg told his Captain to unlimber the piece and wait, till the enemy had arrived nearly to the muzzle, They rushed on certain that they should conquer us; but the battery opened and poured into their masses a plerity of grape. They staggered at the first fire, and the second opened streets through them and the third volley entirely dispersed them and they fled in dismay. Our loss was heavy in this last struggle.

In this desperate conflict, Colonels Hardin and McKee and Lieutenant-Colonel Clay, fell at the head of their regiments. Our artillery turned the tide of battle three times