Page:Notes of the Mexican war 1846-47-48.djvu/468

462 sickness of any serious nature, considering our number, among us. We have learned fatigue, and are used to hardships of the severest kinds. Yet we may all feel the effects of it in after years, if we live that long.

There are now two parties in Mexico, one party are the Paras (Purity), headed by Don Valentine Gomaz Fairs, a popular man among the middle class, and late Vice-President under Gen. Santa Anna.

The other party is called Moderados, headed and influenced by the Roman Catholic Church; which, according to the language of an eminent writer, is the sworn foe to religious liberty, ecclesiastical or political.

Mexico is no doubt one of the best places for an American to feel proud of his nationality, for he sees a deploring contrast between the two nationalities. America is a progressive country,—a land of education, science, art, civilization and enlightenment. This poor, priest-ridden Mexico, with all her natural beauty, her ancient and historic volcanic mountains, and romantic valleys and lakes,—country that is in itself like a dream of terrestial beauty, but so hidden away from the benefits of progress and enlightenment by just such people as mentioned. Oh, when will she awaken and rub the mist from her eyes? But there is a future for Mexico that is illumined by the fair hope of great possibilities.

I will now come to a close by saying that this is the second letter I have written to you, but I have received no answer in return. In fact I have written many letters to my relatives and friends since I have been in the army, and received only a few in return, which makes me feel rather uneasy; but I hope the next mail will relieve me. Give my respects to all inquiring friends and accept the same yourself.

Yours, &c., J. J. O.

Saturday, January 15, 1848.—This morning I went to the city to see the train off; it started soon after I arrived for the city of Vera Cruz. This train is guarded by the Voltiguers'