Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/314

294 soldiers and citizens, to whom crumbs of comfort were distributed in the form of fabricated news, amidst ringing of bells, of important victories by Marquez.

As if in derision of the effort came seemingly reliable news of the annihilation of Marquez' forces and the fall of Puebla. This was naturally kept a secret among the most trusted officers of Maximilian, who now began to entertain the project of fighting his way out with the army. Preparatory for this, Miramon planned an attack on the Cimatario hill, commanding the south line of the town, and early on the 27th of April he advanced against it with about 2,000 men, another less strong column being led by Castillo against the Garita de Mexico, to divide the opponents. So unexpected and determined was the charge, that the republicans fell into disorder, and within an hour their entire line was in full flight, guns, ammunition, and provision trains being abandoned to the victors, who made an immense havoc, and captured more than 500 prisoners, raiding to the headquarters of Corona. Thousands of the fleeing dispersed, never to return. The joy of the soldiers at this unprecedented capture was intense, and joined by the famished towns-people, they began to carry in the booty. Even Miramon seemed dazed by his success, and joined by Maximilian, he strutted about the battle-field speculating on the effect and on the next best movement. In this manner more than two precious hours were lost; and when at last he collected his troops and resolved to pursue this advantage, sweeping the summit of the hill and thence falling in the rear of the adjoining lines, the more active Escobedo had managed to bring forward his choicest reserves, and gain the best position. So severe was the repulse now met, that the late victors turned in flight, heedless of the daring