Page:History of the War between the United States and Mexico.djvu/542

484 The watchfulness of Colonel Mason prevented any further attempts to disturb the tranquillity of Upper California, and in September, 1847, Commodore Shubrick set sail with the greater part of his squadron, for the purpose of capturing, and occupying as far as was practicable, the forts on both sides of the Gulf, not already in possession of the American forces.

On the 20th of October, Guayamas surrendered to Captain Lavallette, who had with him the frigate Congress and sloop of war Portsmouth, after a severe fire, which was continued for nearly an hour, doing considerable damage to the town, and killing and wounding a number of Mexicans. A collector was appointed for the port, but the place was not permanently occupied. The Portsmouth, Commander Montgomery, was left to blockade the port; and the Congress joined Commodore Shubrick, who proceeded to Mazatlan, with the Congress, the razee Independence, the sloop of war Cyane, Commander Du Font, and the transport Erie, Lieutenant Watson. On his way to Mazatlan, Commodore Shubrick left Lieutenant Heywood at San José, in Lower California, with thirty men and three other officers, together with two nine-pounder guns, to occupy the place.

On the morning of the 10th of November, the American squadron hove in sight of Mazatlan. The town was instantly in commotion, and the greater part of the inhabitants fled into the interior. A large body of the National Guard was stationed at this point, with several pieces of artillery, under Colonel Tellez; but they also withdrew, without offering any opposition; and on the. 11th instant Commodore Shubrick landed with a party of sailors and marines, and took possession of the town. The Mexican troops encamped in