Page:History of the War between the United States and Mexico.djvu/157

Rh On his arrival at Monterey, Lieutenant Colonel Frémont informed Commodore Sloat of his proceedings, and of his desire to capture the force under de Castro. The commodore declined to aid him in the enterprise, as he was about to return to the United States, in consequence of his enfeebled health; but when the authority on shore was intrusted to Commodore Stockton, he entered into the project at once, and gave it a most hearty and efficient support. A battalion of mounted riflemen, consisting mainly of the American settlers in California, was immediately formed, and the command given to Lieutenant Colonel Frémont, with the rank of major — the fact of his promotion being still unknown in California. This force was organized for the purpose of cooperating with the marines and sailors employed on the land under the orders of Commodore Stockton.

It was understood, at this time, that Pio Pico, the Governor of California, and General de Castro, the military commandant, were near Ciudad de los Angelos, at the head of seven hundred cavalry, well mounted, and brave and expert horsemen. A threatening proclamation had been issued by the governor, denouncing