Page:History of the War between the United States and Mexico.djvu/119

Rh and enthusiasm of the sons of Mexico." Within a week they were taught to know him better, and their loud boasting changed to mournful lamentations.

General Arista, who now had not far from 8,000 men under his command, left Matamoras with the principal part of the troops remaining on the right bank of the river, several hours before the departure of General Taylor from his position opposite the city. On arriving at the crossing-place below Matamoras, the ﬂat boats were found to be so much injured, that considerable delay was produced before he could concentrate his forces for the contemplated attack on the Point. General Taylor was on his way to its relief, and he did not think it advisable to hazard an engagement, in the then disordered condition of his army. The detachment under General Torrejon occupied the left bank, to cover the crossing, and the Americans were therefore unmolested on their march.

An attack on Fort Texas, as the American ﬁeld-work opposite Matamoras was called, next suggested itself to the Mexican commander. The necessary orders were given, and the ﬁring commenced at daylight on Sunday morning, the 3rd instant, from a battery of seven guns, (eight-pounders) protected by a breastwork of sand-bags. The réveillé was beaten at every point of the Mexican line, and the solemn stillness of