Sketches of the campaign in northern Mexico : in eighteen hundred forty-six and seven / by an officer of the First Regiment of Ohio volunteers.

272 ANOTHER STAMPEDE.
mirth at the disappointment which awaited them, when the
enemy at a closer view were transformed into pack-mules,
about five or six hundred in Dumber.
But the excitement caused by the report received on the
previous night, was not allowed thus tamely to subside.
Early in the forenoon of Christmas-day, a dragoon galloped
into camp with a communication from General Butler, who
had now assumed command at Saltillo, ordering us to repair
to town forthwith. The messenger stated that the game was
now afoot beyond doubt; that General Wool's column, which
had arrived within a few miles of town, had actually seen
and skirmished with the enemy.
We started immediately at a rattling pace and reached
Saltillo in an hour. After halting a few moments in the
suburbs to dress the ranks, we entered the town with the
cadenced step and flying colors. On every side were evidences of excitement and alarm. The garrison (General
Worth's division) was under arms; while groups of frightened citizens, whom the appearance of our volunteers was
not calculated to pacify, were hurrying to and fro. For several hours we remained in the plaza, awaiting orders. In the
meanwhile, a hundred contradictory rumors floated around.
Plans of battle there were many; but of retreat, not one.
All reports agreed in estimating Santa Anna's army at more
than twenty thousand. With General Wool's force, we coLlcd
have mustered about four thousand effectives, and sixteen
pieces of artillery. But a resolute courage animated every
breast and each felt that,-" the fewer the men the greater
share of honor." We had expected to pass the niglht