6th.—The ground was so uneven we did not erect our tents, but spread our blankets and went to bed; the cold prevented any thing like refreshing sleep. We arrived late at our former encampment, and found Col. Mitchell had returned from El Paso, whither he had gone to see Col. Doniphan. He brought news, which was currently reported there, viz. that Gen. Taylor had been overpowered at San Louis Potosi by the Mexicans, and was imprisoned, with 4000 regulars. Of course this was a Mexican story, told no doubt for effect—and it had its effect upon our boys, for it made us feel as if we could fight like lions against the treacherous foe. We waited at this place for Col. Doniphan, who was making every preparation for our dangerous trip. I made for my own use to-day a pair of wooden spurs.
7th.—This morning after roll-call and breakfast, we fed our horses and mules, and tried to rest and amuse ourselves. At supper I made some pancakes, without milk or eggs, unfortunately I put rather too much salt in my batter. Fifteen men were sent down the river on a scouting expedition to-night. My name was called to be on guard, so I gathered up my blanket and went into the line with the rest. I was placed in first relief, near the river. I walked two hours, then went to bed at 12 o’clock by the guard-fire; I was awakened by the Corporal at three, and stood till morning.
8th.—Prepared my clothes by washing and mending, for our departure. Boiled some beans and beef for my mess. The weather was very disagreeable, and we all felt weary of our delay.
9th.—While busily engaged fixing up to-day, Col. Doniphan came on with the artillery and encamped near us. All is now bustle and excitement, as it is said we shall start in the morning.
10th.—Col. Doniphan has concluded to stay here to-day with the army, as it is very cold and cloudy. Our boys are making desperate efforts to amuse themselves. Among other things, our sutler is here with his establishment, and whiskey is selling at 75 cents per pint. With some honorable exceptions, the scene among officers and men may be much “better imagined than described.”
11th.—The whole of Col. Doniphan’s regiment, including the Chihuahua Rangers, started this morning for the South to join Gen. Wool. We marched in right order 12 miles, and encamped on the bank of the river.
12th.—The wagons not coming in last night, some uneasiness was expressed by our Commander, when, with fifteen others, I returned to where we encamped the night before, and found the train just about to move on. We passed a caravan, who told us they had lost the last night 250 mules and 50 yoke of oxen, driven off by the Indians. We came to our camp and found cooking to be the order of the day. We are about entering another jornada, and provisions for four days must be packed.
13th.—Detained here to have all in complete readiness. The Indians were at their thievish work again. Last night they drove off some cattle and mules belonging to the traders. The skill and daring evinced by these bands of savages exceed belief. They follow the army, and are always prowling around our camp at night.
Sunday, 14th.—Although on mounted guard nearly all night, I made all the haste I could to eat an early breakfast and saddle up. I was among the first in the ranks. Here we were told that the burial of two soldiers, who expired last night, would only detain us a few minutes longer. The mournful ceremony ended, we started at 8 o’clock; came on the jornada five miles, and halted to feed our horses and mules. I was in the rear guard behind the prisoners all day—travelled a long and wearisome journey through the sand until 8 o’clock at night. I ate a small piece of bread and meat, and spread my blanket at the guard-fire, where I slept till four. I was awakened by the officer of the watch and stood till six. I was at last relieved by the sound of the tattoo.
15th.—12 miles further on we stopped to eat breakfast, which was a cold cut. We again moved on, and came 20 miles through this jornada and encamped late in the night. No water was as yet to be seen. Our Sergeant measured to each man a half pint. One man sold his half pint for 50 cents.