Page:History of the War between the United States and Mexico.djvu/348

298 the determination of those whose views it represented, not to tender the olive branch of peace until a victory had been achieved over the enemy, the power and influence of Santa Anna were placed on a firmer foundation than ever.

The enlistment of troops under the ten regiment bill did not progress as rapidly as was anticipated by General Scott, and the War department of the United States, considering the large bounties; but the regiments were soon filled up. The first body of troops dispatched to the seat of war, were ordered to the Rio Grande, in command of General Cadwalader, to aid General Taylor in maintaining his line of communications, then supposed to be seriously endangered; but, more recent ad vices having been received, the order was countermanded, and they were sent to strengthen the column commanded by General Scott. They were followed in a short time by detachments under Generals Pillow and Pierce, which were also ordered to Vera Cruz.

Without the reinforcements which he expected to join him, it would have been extremely unwise in General Scott, had he advanced beyond Puebla. Taking advantage of the consternation that prevailed about the time of his arrival in that city, he might have entered the capital, perhaps, without an action. His whole effective force barely exceeded 6,000 men; Santa Anna was known to be in or near Mexico, with a large body of troops; General Alvarez was within striking distance in his rear; and if he moved forward, the detachments coming up would be more exposed to attack; and should they be cut off, his own position must be very insecure. Under such circumstances he decided to remain at Puebla until the reinforcements arrived. He therefore remained inactive for several