Page:Complete history of the late Mexican war.djvu/68

64 On the 26th General Taylor issued the following order:

I. The commanding general has the grateful task of congratulating the troops upon the brilliant success which attended their arms in the conflict of the 22 nd and 23rd, Confident in the immense superiority of numbers, and stimulated by the presence of a distinguished leader, the Mexican troops were yet repulsed in every effort to force our lines, and finally withdrew with immense loss from the field.

II. The general would express his obligations to the men and officers engaged for the cordial support which they rendered throughout the action. It will be his highest pride to bring to the notice of the government the conspicuos gallantry of particular officers and corps, whose unwavering steadiness more than once saved the fortunes of the day. He would also express his high satisfaction with the small command left at Saltillo. Though not so seriously engaged as their comrades, their services were very important, and efficiently rendered. While bestowing this just tribute to the good conduct of the troops, the general deeply regrets to say that there were not a few exceptions. He trusts that those who fled ingloriously to Buena Vista, and even to Saltillo, will seek an opportunity to retrieve their reputation and to emulate the bravery of their comrades who bore the brunt of the battle, and sustained, against fearful odds, the honor of the flag.

III. The exhultation of success is checked by the heavy sacrifice of life which it has cost, embracing many officers of high rank and rare merit. While the sympathy of a grateful country will be given to the bereaved families and