BATTLE OF SACRAMENTO.
Colonel Doniphan’s force was increased to a thousand men, with four pieces of artillery, soon after his arrival at El Paso. Continuing his march towards Chihuahua, he reached the valley of the Sacramento. The Mexicans had taken a strong position on the banks of the Sacramento, and it was well fortified. Colonel Doniphan saw that the only chance of fighting them at all upon even ground was to get possession of the high tableland between the Seco and Sacramento rivers. Accordingly a small force was directed to advance for that purpose. This gallant band stormed the intrenchments and gained the tableland, where the whole American army was drawn up for battle. The Mexicans opened a heavy fire, and it was returned with more effect by Captain Weightman’s artillery. Then the troops were ordered to storm the works. A gallant charge was made, amid a tremendous fire, and, after a three hour’s fight, the enemy were completely defeated. The Mexicans lost about three hundred men, ten pieces of artillery, and a large quantity of ammunition. This battle was justly considered one of the most brilliant that was fought during the war. It raised the fame of Colonel Doniphan and his brave band of warriors to a very high point in public esteem.
BATTLE OF PASQUAL.