Page:Notes of the Mexican war 1846-47-48.djvu/520

514 Wednesday, March 22d, 1848.—This morning, at 10 o'clock, we marched to the field opposite the convento, or nunnery, where we found the whole Volunteer Brigade formed. We fell into line and went through various field movements—all under the command of Col. Wynkoop, who is trying to get promoted to a brigadier-generalship. Shortly afterwards, Maj.-Gen. Patterson made his appearance on the field, and reviewed the brigade. He was accompanied by a good many regular officers, and they all praised our field movements and drilling, after which we returned to our quarters.

This evening there seemed to be a little excitement in our quarters about the extra expenses of the late supper and ball; so a committee was appointed to make all things right.

Thursday, March 23, 1848.—This morning the committee appointed to inquire into the extra expenses of our late supper reported that there has been a great many glasses, bottles and dishes broken at the supper, and the committee of arrangements held themselves responsible for all lost and damaged articles; therefore, an order should be drawn on the overflush and pay the extra charges, which was agreed to. This evening, on dress parade, orders were read to us that the United States Congress had passed a bill to deduct one dollar per month from our clothing money. The reading of this bill caused a good deal of excitement, that this is what we get for fighting the bloody Mexicans. The bill was got up and advocated by General Lewis Cass, so-called hero of Hull's surrender; but this is the biggest surrender and blunder that he ever made; and mark me, the honorable gentleman will yet suffer by this very act, and so he did. He never was elected President.

Friday, March 24, 1848.—This morning there is great excitement in the whole volunteer division about Congress passing a bill deducting one dollar per month from our clothing. Thus, in place of raising our wages, as we all expected, they lowered them. Some of our men are swearing vengeance, that they will march on to Washington and run the bayonet in old Lewis Cass.