Page:History of the War between the United States and Mexico.djvu/474

422 of a low sand-bag defence, about one hundred yards to the left of the causeway, with two companies of the 2nd Pennsylvania; and held it, under a severe fire, till nightfall, when the Mexican batteries ceased firing.

Sweeping the enemy with the utmost ease, from the two batteries enfilading the route, at which they vainly endeavored to make a successful stand, General Worth arrived at the intersection of the branch causeway with the San Cosmé road, about two miles distant from Chapultepec. Here, on his left, was a formidable work at the Campo Santo, or English burying-ground, but entirely destitute of guns. Leaving the brigade of General Cadwalader at this point to protect his rear, General Worth turned to the right, and moved cautiously along the road towards the garita of San Cosme, where Genera] Range] was in command. Several hundred yards further on, the column came upon a strong adobé breastwork, two hundred and fifty yards in front of the garita. The approach to the two defences was in a right line, and the whole space was raked by grape, canister, and shells, from the heavy gun and howitzer in the battery at the gate; in addition to which, an incessant fire of musketry was poured from the tops of the houses and churches, flanking the road. Lieutenant Hagner was ordered forward with his pieces; but, it being found impossible to bring them into action, on account of the nature of the ground, they were withdrawn.

General Worth then decided to vary his mode of operations. Lieutenant Johnson, with a portion of the 6th infantry, moved to the right, in rear of several small buildings, until he reached a large dwelling fronting the street. Having broken into the house, his men