Page:Notes of the Mexican war 1846-47-48.djvu/602

596 Sunday, July 9, 1 848.—This being Sunday, a large number of citizens came on board to visit us, shaking hands and congratulating us on our safe return, and asking many questions about the battles fought and the removal of Gen. Scott.

This afternoon, Sergt. Robert Freeston, of Co. D, First Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, died of diarrhœa.

Monday, July 10, 1848.—This morning I was informed that Co. D intends to take the dead body of Sergt. Freeston, who died yesterday, on to Philadelphia to his relatives.

At noon I again visited the city, and took a walk around the canal, and talked to some of the boatmen about boating, as that used to be my occupation on the Pennsylvania Canal from 1840 to 1846.

Tuesday, July 11, 1848.—This morning at 10 o'clock some of the Ohio Volunteers arrived. They had a grand reception by the citizens and firemen; they turned out en masse to do honor to their sons who fought on the sandy plains of Mexico. There was much cheering and confusion during their marching through the city.

About noon Col. Wynkoop concluded to start, and left the city with firing a salute and cheers. Passed several small villas (towns), and at dusk it commenced to rain, which had the effect of cooling the air.

Wednesday, July 12, 1848.—This morning was very foggy, and prevented the boat from going her regular speed. We passed several fine towns, and were kindly saluted by the citizens, with firing off of cannons and cheering.

To-day has been very pleasant, and the hurricane-deck was crowded.

Thursday, July 13, 1848.—This morning we stopped at a small town to let off and take on passengers; left, and passed several other towns. Along the river people could be seen in groups cheering and waving their handkerchiefs.

In the evening, about 8 o'clock, we arrived at Wheeling, Va., which is about ninety miles from Pittsburgh, Here we were met by the citizens on the wharf and on steamboats lying here,