PREFACE.
The following pages are designed to record, in a brief manner, those facts in reference to the war in Mexico, worthy of preservation. It comprehends the substance of larger works, and is more convenient for reference. Lists of killed and wounded are given as fully and accurately as the official and authoritive reports would admit.
It is painfull to contemplate, and especially describe the scenes of the battle field—the streams of blood—the groans of the wounded and dying—the hundreds or thousands slain—the gasp of death—the crushed hopes—undying spirits thus ushered suddenly and awfully into the presence of their Judge, perhaps unprepared—it is apalling! and we would turn away and weep for poor, depraved humanity. Still it is desirable that the facts should be laid before the public. How many wives, at the commencement of the war, parted with their companions never to meet again in this world, and are now eager to know all the circumstances connected with the war! How many parents, bereft of dear children, how many brothers and sisters, deprived of those whom they loved, are intensely anxious to hear all the particulars of each battle!
We present these pages to the public hoping the tragical scenes here described may deter others from imbibing a war spirit. We exhort them not to be influenced by the martial array, the din of battle and the clash of arms, and all the exciting parepharnalia of war.
