Page:Notes of the Mexican war 1846-47-48.djvu/65

Rh Sunday, February 21, 1847.—This morning a steamship hove in sight, and in a short time she came near enough for us to learn that it was the flagship "Massachusetts," and by her signs we found our Commander-in-Chief, Major-Gen. Winfield Scott, was on board of her. The sloop-of-war "St. Mary," Capt. Sanders commander, and which has been lying here ever since we arrived, opened her bull dogs in honor of his (Scott's) arrival.

The General did not land on account of the sea and weather being too rough. To-night the sea looks like fire.

Monday February 22, 1847.—This morning the minute guns of the "St. Mary," as well as those on shore, fired salutes in honor of the 22d of February. The day was celebrated by several companies in a becoming manner. Our company had a splendid supper on the occasion, served up by Mr. Schultz. After supper was over the bottles were handed around and toast after toast was drank. Little patriotic speeches were made by several of our officers and men. So passed the 22d of February on the Island of Lobos.

Tuesday, February 23, 1847.—This morning we were visited by the officers of the Second Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers. They spoke very highly and complimentary. At noon the man-of-war-brig "Perry" arrived from the blockading squadron off Vera Cruz. As soon as she dropped her anchor the "St. Mary" weighed her anchor and set sail for Vera Cruz. In the evening some of Co. D and some of our men had a little fight about the right of the fire-place; but it was soon quashed by our officers. This was the first quarrel we have had since we were mustered into the United States Army. To-night it is rumored in our camp that Lieut. Richey and a party of his men were all captured and murdered by the Mexican guerillas, near Villa Grand.

I learn to-night that a regular United States officer died on shipboard and was brought on the island.

The wind to-night is again rising and the ships are seen to rock to and fro like a baby's cradle.