Page:History of the War between the United States and Mexico.djvu/108

90 whenever he deemed it necessary, quieted tho fears and apprehensions of the community but for a moment, and all were soon prepossessed with the idea that he had waited until it was too late. Even those who were best acquainted with his qualities as a soldier, and knew that he would not rashly thrust himself into danger, trembled for his safety; and, although they were satisfied that he would fight like the stag at bay, whatever might be the strength of his assailants, they feared lest courage and determination would avail him nothing, against the powerful army which threatened to overwhelm him.

In the city of New Orleans, and the adjoining country, the excitement was so great that it could scarcely be controlled. Partaking of the enthusiasm of those who surrounded him, the veteran General Gaines, then in command of that division, without waiting for orders from Washington, made large requisitions for volunteers, on the Governors of Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Missouri, in addition to those called for by General Taylor. There was no lack of applicants to meet all the requisitions, and the only strife was, who should be first and foremost in the rescue. Within a