Cbe Liftratp of it)t {[InitjetiBiitp of Ji3ortl) Carolina Collection of j3ort6 Caroliniana Jofin &ptunt !^iU of tl)c eilajss of 1889 GB JlSe.S . This book musf not ONLY, and i?- subiect to a nne ux xY,\^ CEN^ THE COMPLETE MEMOIRS OP Andrew Jackson, SEVENTH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. CONTAINING A FULL ACCOUNT OF HIS MILITARY LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENTS, WITH HIS CAREER AS PRESIDENT. NEW YORK HURST & CO., Publishers 122 Nassau Street PEEFACE. TT is not the intention of the compiler of the fbl- lowing Memoirs to present his readers with a prolix preface, because it constitutes that portion of a book which is seldom honored with a reading. When high party feelings were fully developed, in relation to a presidential candidate, the engines of abuse brought into operation on the one hand, and on the other the fulsome adulation exhibited towards the distinguished patriot whose life is here delineated, induced the compiler to undertake an inyestigation of the subject in order to bring to light a true statement of facts. With this object constantly in view, there has been a careful examination of the official docu- ments which relate to his public acts. His talents as a military commander, as a civilian, and, lastly, his moral character, are open to the inspection of all. When the community entertain different views of the conduct or motives of an individual who has acted in a highly responsible capacity, it is ex- ceedingly difficult to concentrate opinion by pre- senting a series of truths. Prejudice operates with pocnliar force on the minds of one ciam, whil* the fit Mm, kow«T«r well oonTinoed of their error, u% nBwilling to be thoaght inconBistent, and therefore nerer acknowledge the falsity of the coorBe of reasoning which they have once adopted. Although this compilation has been attended with considerable anxiety in reducing the materials to an orderly arrangement, a hope is indulged that the reader will admit, from a candid examination of the whole, that the intention has not been to make the work subservient to party purposes : on the contrary, it is intended to be a plain record of events in the life of an illustrious American citizen. The compiler of these Memoirs makes no claim to novelty or originality. He hopes, notwithstand- ing, that they will not be found uninteresting. It has been his aim to bp strictly impartial. The materials that compose his works have accordingly been derived alike from the enemies and friends of the hero, whose public and private character he has endeavored faithfully to delineate. Unaccustomed to eulogy, and unacquainted with the chicanery of political life, the compiler sub- mits the result of his inquiries to the impartial tribonal of the public. & CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. His birth, parentage, family, and education. — Eo^agM in the American Revolution, and is shortly after, with his brother, made a prisoner. — Their treatment and suf- forings. — Corhmencos the study of law. — His remoral to the Western country. — Anecdote. — Becomes a mem* ber of the Tennessee convention, and afterwards a sen- ator in the United States' congress. — Retires, and is ap- pointed a judge of the state courts. — Declaration of war. — Tenders the services of 2500 volunteers to the president. — Ordered to the lower country. — His descent and return, and discharge of the troops. . . . p. 13 CHAPTER 11. Indian preparation for hostilities.— Tecumseh arriTei amongst the southern tribes ; his intrigues. — Civil wan of the Creeks. — Destruction of, and butchery at Fort Mimms. — Expedition against ihe Indians. — Jackson unites with the army, and enters the enemy's country. — Scarcity of supplies in his camp. — Learns the savages are imbodied. — Seeks to form a junction with the East Tennessee division. — Detaches General Coffee acrosa the Coosa. — Battle of Tallushatchee. , . p. 30 CHAPTER HI. General Jackson endeavours to unite with the Eu* Tennessee troops. — EstablishmoLt of Fort Strolher.— Learns the enemy are imbodied. — Marches to meel lh*-n. — Battle of Talladega. — Is compelled to return to rJ hia encampment, for want of supplies. — Anecdote. — Di»- »c 1 rents of his army. — Militia and volunteers; mutiny Or ^ VI CONTENT!. Adaram to the officers. — Is comDelltd to abuuloa fort Strother- HiUaboo clans sue for peace. — Letter fh>zii the Rev. Mr. Blackburn. — An«wer. — The rolunteera claim to be discharged. — Mutiny. — Address to them.— General Cocko arrives witli part of his division. — Gene- ral Coffee's brigade petitions for a dischajjfe. — General Jackson's answer. — They abandon the Mrrice, and jrc home p.oO CHAPTER IV. Discontents of the militia. — Governor Blount recom- mends an abandonment of the service. — Jackson s reply to his letter. — The governor takes measures for brin^ring out a sufficient force — Conduct of General Roberts. — His brigade retires from service. — Lieutenant Kearley. — Arrival of additional forces. — Arrest of officers. — Expe- dition against the Indians. — His motives. — Battle of Emuckfaw. — General Coffee proceeds to destroy the enemy's fortifications. — Second battle of Emuckfaw. — Troops commence their return march. — Ambuscade formed by the Indians. — Battle of Enotichopco. . p. 82. CHAPTER V. The volunteers are discharged. — New troops arrive.— Execution of a soldier, and the effect produced. — Want of supplies. — Mutiny with the East Termessoe brigade.- General Jackson marches against the Indians. — Battle of Toliopeka. — Returns to Fort Williams. — Expedition to Hoithlevvalee ; its failure, and the causes. — Forms a enction with the Georgia troopr, and proceeds to the ickorv Ground. — Indians sue for peace. — Weatherford surrenders himself — Arrival of General Pinckney at head-quarters. — Tennessee troopa are ordarad to be arched home, and diacharged {torn ■arrie* . p. 110 CHAPTER VI. Jackson is appointed a ii^ajor-general in the aerrioe of he United States. — Is directed to open a negotiation ■*ith the Indians. — Speech of the Big Warrior, a chial jf the nation. — Concludes a treaty with the Creek In >NTENT». Vll diuu. — His Tiew« against Pensacola and Florida. — 0«m era] Armstrong's letter. — The Spanish goremor ia call •d on for an explanation of his conduct. — His answer, and General Jackson's reply. — The adjutant-general ia de- spatched to Tennessee to raise volunteers. — Jackson sets out for Mobile. — Orders the Tennessee troops to ad ranee to his assistance f' 141 CHAPTER Vn. Colonel Nicholls arrives at Pensacola, and issues a proo tarnation to the southern inhabitants. — Attack on Fort Bowyer, and loss of the Hermes. — Jackson determines to reduce Pensacola. — Demands of the governor an explana tion of his conduct ; his answer— Enters and takes pos session of Pensacola. — Conduct and perfidy of the gov ernor. — Destruction, by the British, of Barrancas Fort. — Our troops return to Mobile. — Expedition against the Indians. — General Winchester arrives, and Jackson pro- ceeds to take command of New Orleans. . . . p. 171. CHAPTER Vm. Jackson's correspondence with the governor of Loms- iana. — His address to the citizens.-— MiUtia from Ten- nessee and Kentucky advance ; and general plans adopt ed for defence. — Plan for filling delinquencies in 'nt army — British shipping arrive on the coast. — Los« of the Sea Horse. — Battle on the lake, and loss of the gun- boats — Jackson reviews the militia. — His address to them. — Detention of his flag. — Anecdote. — Expresses sent to Generals Coffee and Carroll. — Declaration of martial law at New Orleans. — The British effect a land ing, and Jackson prepares to meet them. ... p. 197 CHAPTER IX. Ci^eneral Jackson concentrates his forces, and mirehes to fight the enemy. — Alarms of the city. — Anecdote^ — Mode of attack, and battle of the 23d of December. — British re-enforcements arrive during the action. — ^Ar- rival of General Carroll's division.-^ur anny retires ftova the field. — Effects of this battle. — Jackson esttblish 1* COnTEWTt. m I luM of - position to British oppression, which afterwards sc much distinguished them. Often would she spend the winter's evenings in recounting to thera the sufferings of their grandfather at the siege of Car- fickfergus, and the oppression exerciser by the no- bility of Ireland over the labouring poor ; impres- smg it upon them, as a first duty, to expend their lives, if it should become necessary, in defending and supporting the rights of man. Inheriting but a small patrimony from their fa- ther, it was impossible that all tlie sons could receive an expensive education. The two eldest were, therefore, only taught the rudiments of their mother tonorue, at a common country school. But An- drew, being intended by liis mother fo» the minis- try, was sent to a flourishing academy at the Wax- saw meeting-house, superintended by Mr. Hum- phries. Here he was placed on the study of the dead languages, and continued until the revolu- tionary war, extending its ravages into that section of South Carolina where he then was, rendered it necessary that every one should betake himself to the American standard, seek protection with the enemy, or flee his country. It was not an alter- native that admitted of tedious deliberation. The natural ardour of his temper, deriving encouragc- meni from the recommendations of his mother, whose feelings were excited by those sentiments in favour of liberty, with which, by her conversation, hit mind had been early imbued, quickly deter mined him in the course to be pursued ; and, at the Undtr age o' fourteen, accompanied by hia hmthei LUn OF fllNSRAL lACKlOll. II Robert, bt hastened to the Amencan cuip, tad engaged actiTely in the service of hii coontry Hit eldeat brother, who had previously joined the army, had loat hit life at the battle of Stono, froui "^he exceaaive heat of the weather and the fatigues >f the day. Both Andrew and Robert were, at this period, pretty well acquainted with the manual exercise, ind had some idea of the difierent evolutions of the field, having been indulged by their mother in attending the drill and general musters of the neighbourhood. The Americans being unequal, as well from the inferiority of their numbers, as their discipline, to engage ^e British array in battle, had retired be- fore it into the interior of North Carolina; but, when they learned, that Lord Comwallis had croaa- ed the Yadkin, they returned in small detach* ments to their native state. On their arrival, they found Lord Rawdon in possession of Camden, and the whole country around in a state of desolation. The British commander being advised of the re- turn of the settlers of VVaxsaw, Major Coffin waa inmiediately despatched thither, with a corps of light dragoons, a company of infantry, and a con- siderable number of lories, for their capture and destruction. Hearing of their approach, the set- tlers, without delay, appointed the Waxsaw meet- ing-house as a place of rendezvou^that they might the better collect their scattered strength, and con- cert some system of operations. About forty of them had accordingly assembled at this point, whei the enemy approached, keeping the toriea, who were dreced in the common garb of the country, in front, iriiereby this little band of patriots waa completely 2 li UFI or OINBKAL ikCKMOtL. deeehred, baring taken them fbr Captain Nb- bet'a company, in expectation of which they had been waiting. Eleren of them were taken prison r ; the reat with difficulty fled, betaking them o^ .a to the wooda for concealment. Of thoee who thna eacaped, though closely pursued, were Andrew Jackaon and his brother, who, entering a ret bond in a creek, that was close at hand, o lined a momentary respite from danger, and avoided, fbr the night, the pursuit of the enemy. The next day, however, having gone to a neigh- bouring house, for the purpose of procuring some- thing to eat, they were broken in upon, and made prisoners, by Coffin's dragoons, and a party of to- nes who accompanied them. Those young men, with a view to security, had placed their horses in the wood, on the margin of a small creek, and post- ed, on the road which led by the house, a senti- nel, that they might have information of any ap- proach, and in time to be able to elude it But the tories, who were weU acquainted with the coun- try and the passes through the forest, had, unfortu- nately, passed the creek at the very point where the horses and baggage of our young soldiers were deposited, and taken possession of them. Having done this, they approached, cautiously, the house, and were almost at the door before they were dis- covered. To escape was impossible, and both were made prisoners. Being placed under guard, Andrew was orde^d, in a very imperious tone, by a British officer, to clean his boota. This order he positively and peremptorily refused to obey ; alleg ing that he looked for such treatment as a pria oner of war had a right to expect Incensed at hif refVmU the officer aimed a blow at his b^^ hum OF GBNBRAL JACKSON. 17 with a dntwn aword, which would, verj probftbiy htTe terminated his existence, had he not parried itfl effbctfi by throwing up his left hand, on which he received a severe wound, the mark of which he bears to this hour. His brother, at the same time, for a similar offence, received a deep cut on the head, which subsequently occasioned his death. They were both now taken to jail, where, aepa rated and confined, they were treated with marked severity, until a few days after the battle before Camden, when, in consequence of a partial ex- change, effected by the intercessions and exer- tions of their mother, and Captain Walker, of the militia, they were both released from confinement Robert, during his confinement in prison, had suf- fered greatly ; the wound on his head, all this time, having never been dressed, was followed by an in- flammation of the brain, which, in a few days after his liberation, brought him to the grave. To add to the afflictions of Andrew, his mother, worn down by grief, and her incessant exertions to pro vide clothing and other comforts for the suffering prisoners, who had been taken from her neigh- bourhood, expired in a few weeks after her son, near the lines of the enemy, in the vicinity of Charleston. Andrew, the last and only surviving child, confined to a bed of sickness, occasioned by the suflferings he had been compelled to undergo whilst a prisoner, and by getting wet, on his return from captivity, was thus left in the wide world, without a human being with whom he could claim a near relationship. The small pox, about the %ame time, having made its appearance upon him had well nigh terminated his sorrowi and hie «z tftenee. 18 UfV or OINBRAL JACESOK. HtTinf tt length recovered &om hii complk c&ted afflictiooB) be entered upon the enjojment of hiB estate, which, although small, would have been sufficient, under prudent management, to have completed hia education, on the liberal scale which his mother had designed. Unfortunately, however, he, like too many young men, sacrificing future prospects to present gratification, expended it with rather too grofuse a hand. Foreseeing that he should be finally obliged to rely on his own ex- ertions, for support and success in life, he again betook himself to his studies with increased in- dustry. He recommenced under Mr. M'Culloch, ji that part of Carolina which was then called the New Acquisition, near Hill's iron works. Here he revised the languages, devoting a portion of his time to a desultory course of studies. His education being now completed, so far a« his wasted patrimony, and the limited opportuni- ties then afforded in that section of the country, would permit, at tlie age of eighteen, he turned his attention to acquiring a profession, and in preparing himself to enter on the busy scenes of life. The pulpit, for which he had been designed by his mother, was now abandoned for the bar; and, in the winter of 1784, he repaired to Salisbury, in North Carolina, and commenced the study of law /under Spruce M'Cay, Esq., (afterwards one of the judges of that state,) and subsequently continued it under Colonel John Stokes. Having remained at Salisuury until the winter of 1786, he obtained a license from the judges to practise law, and con- tinued in tl:e state until the spring of 1788. The western parta of the state of Tennesiee vere. about this tiine, often spoken of, m preaanting Um Oy MlflRAL lAOUOM. It flattering prospect* to adventarera. He diately determined to accompany Judge M*Nairy thither, who had been appointed, and was going out to hold the first supreme court that had ever sat in the state. Having reached the Holston, they ascertained it would be impossible to arrive at the time appointed for the sessior of the court ; and therefore determined to remain in that section of country until fall. They reached Nashville in Oc- tober. It had not been Jackson's intention, certain- ly, to make Tennessee the place of his future resi- dence ; hif visit was merely experimental, and his stay remained to be determined by the advantages that might be disclosed ; but finding, soon ^er his arrival, that a considerable opening was offered for the success of a young attorney, he determined to remain, though the prospect before him was, cer- tainly, not of an encouraging cast As in all newly settled countries must be the case, society was loosely formed, and united by but few of those ties which have a tendency to enforce the performance of moral duty, and the right execution of justice. The young men of the place, adventurers from dif- ferent sections of the country, had become indebted to the merchants; there was but one lawyer in the country, and they had so contrived, as to retain him in their business ; the consequence was, that the merchants were entirely deprived of the means of enforcing against those gentlemen the execu- tion of their contracts. In this state of things Jack- son made his appearance at Nashville, and while the creditor class looked to it with great satis- faction, the debtors were sorely displeased. Appli- cations were immediately made to him for his pro- fessional services, and on the morning after hit 2* 19 ura or aBMVRAL ixckmom. irrifil he intted seventy writs. To thoee proit- ft] gentlemen, it was an alanning circumstance their former aecurity was impaired ; but, that it might not wholly depart, they determined to force him, in some way or other, to leave the country ; and, to effect this, broils and quarrels with him were to be resorted to. This, however, was soon abandoned, satisfied by the first controversy in which they had involved him, that his decision and firmness were such as to leave no hope of eflffecting any thing through this channel. Disregarding the opposition raised to him, he continued, with care and industry, to press forward in his professional course, and his attention soon brought him forward, and introduced him to a profitable practice. He was subsequently appointed attorney-general for the district, in which capacity he continued to act for several years. Indian depredation^ being then frequent on the Cumberland, every man, of necessity, became a soldier Unassisted by the government, the set- tlers were forced to rely for security on their own bravery and exertions. Although young, no per son was more distinguished than Andrew Jack- son, in defending the country against these preda- tory incursions of the savages, who continually harassed the frontiers, and not unfrequently ap- proached the heart of the settlements, which were thin, but not widely extended. He aided alike in garrisoning the forts, and in pursuing and chastis- ing the enemy. In the year 1796, having, by his patriotism, firm- ness and talents, secured to himself a distinguished standing, h« was chosen one of the members of ths convention for establishmg a constitution for the UF* OP GIlflKAL JACKION. H •Cat*. Hif good conduct and zeal brougkt kia more prominently to view ; and, without propofinf or Boliciting, he was, in the same year, elected a member of the house of representativ.es, in con- grresfl, for the state of Tennessee. The following year, his reputation continuing to increase, he was chosen a senator of the United States' congress, and took his seat on the 22d day of November, 1797. About the middle of April, business of an important and private nature imposed on him the necessity of asking leave of absence, and return- ing home. Leave was granted, and before the next session he resigned his seat He was but a little more than thirty years of age, and hence, scarcely eligible, by the constitution, at the time he was elected. The sedition law was introduced into the senate, by Mr. Lloyd, of Maryland, in June, and passed that body on the 4th of July fol- lowing ; hence the name of Jackson, owing to the leave of absence which had been granted him in April, does not appear on the journals. On the alien law, however, and the effort to repeal the ■tamp act, he was present, resting in the minority. The state of Tennessee, on its admission into the Union, comprising but one military division, and General Conway, who commanded it, as major- general, djring about this time, Jackson, without being consulted on the subject, wa«, a« the con- stitution of the state directs, chosen by the field officers to succeed him ; which appointment he con- tinued to hold until May, 1814, when he was con stituted a major-general in the United States* ser ▼lee. Mtotaang tired of political life, for the iitriguM if whkh ht declared hmiself unqualified, and kav- n UWlt OF GENERAL JACKSON mg for two years voted in the minority in congr«M, he resigned, afler the first session, iiis seat in the senate. To this measure he was strongly in- duced, from a desire to make way for General Smith, who, he conjectured, would, in that capaci- ty, be able to render more important services to the government than himself. His country, unwilling that his talents should remain inactive and unem- ployed, again demanded his services. Immediate- ly afler his resignation, he was appointed one of the judges of the supreme court of the state. He advanced to the office witli reluctance, and in a short time resigned, leaving it open for those, who, he believed, were better qualified than hunself, to dis- charge its intricate and i .portarit duties. Unam- bitious of those distinctions and honours which young men are usually proud to possess ; finding, too, that his circumstances and condition in life were not auch as to* permit his time and attention 10 be devoted to public matters, he determined to yield them into others' hands, and to devote him- «elf to agricultural pursuits ; and accordingly set- tled himself on an excellent farm, ten miles from Nashville, on the Cumberland river ; where, for several years, he enjoyed all the comforts of do- mestic and social intercourse. Abstracted from tlie busy scenes of public life, pleased with retire- ment, surrounded by friends whom he loved, and who entertamed for him the highest veneration and respect, and blessed with an amiable and affec- tionate consort, nothing seemed wanting to the com- pletion of that happiness which be so anxiously desired whilst in office. Groat Britain, by multiplied outnget on oar rif hta, u an independent and neutral natiaii, ham LIFB OP GBNERAL JACRtON. tt provoked from our government a declaration of wmt igainst her. This measure, though founded in abundant cause, had been long forborne, and ev- ery attempt at reconciliation made, without effect ; when, at length, it was resorted to, as the only al- ternative that could preserve the honour and dig- nity of the nation, General Jackson, ever devoted to the interests of his country, from the moment of the declaration, knew no wish so strong as that of entering into her service, against a power, which, independent of public considerations, he had many private reasons for disliking. In her, he could trace sufferings and injuries received, and the efficient cause, why, in early life, he had been left forlorn and wretched, withoMt a single relation in the world. His proud and inflexible mind, however, could not venture to solicit an ap- pointment in the army, which was about to be rais- ed. He accordingly remained wholly unknown^ until, at the head of the militia, employed against the Creek Indians, his constant vigilance, and the splendour of his victories, apprized the genera! government of those great military talents which he so eminently possessed, and conspicuously dis- played, when opportunities for exerting them were afforded. The acts of congress of the 6th of February tud July, 1812, afforded the means of bringing in to view a display of those powers, which, being unknown, under other circumstances, unfortunate ly, might have slumbered in inaction. Under th4 authority of these acts, authorizing the president to accept the services of fifty thousand volunteers. he addressed the citizens of his diviucMi, wai tveaty-five hundred flocked to his ■taiidaf4' ^ t4 Un OF GENBRAL JACKSON. lender of them having been made, and the oflfer Ae- cepted, in November he received orders to plac« himself at their head and to descend the Missis- gippi, for the defence of the lower country, which was then supposed to be in danger. On the lOtb of December, those troops rendezvoused at Nash- ville, prepared to advance to the place of their des tination; and, although the weather was then ex* sessively severe, and the ground covered with snow, no troops could have displayed greater firm- ness. The general waa every where with them, in- spiring them with the ardour that animated hii own bosom. Having procured supplies, and made the necessa- ry arrangements for an active campaign, they pro* ceeded, the 7th of January, on their journey ; and, descending the Ohio and Mississippi, through cold and ice, arrived, and halted at Natchez. Here Jackson had been iiistructed to remain, until he should receive further orders. Having chosen a healthy site for the encampment of his troops, about two miles from Washington, he devoted hii time, with the utmost industry, to training and pre- paring them for active service. The clouds of war, however, in that quarter, having blown over, an order was received from the secretary of war, dated the 5th of January, directing him, on the re- ceipt thereof, to dismiss those under his conmiand from service, and to take measures for delivering over every article of public property, in his pos •easion, to Brigadier-General Wilkinson. When thifl order reached his camp, there were one hun- dred and fifty on the sick report, fifly-six of whom were unable to raise their heads, and almoet the ffbote of them destitute of the meant of defhtv- Uni OF ««lfSRAL f4CKIOII. t$ ing the ezpeiuei of their return. The eon«eqiieiioe of a strict compliance with the secretary's or- der inevitably would have been, that many of the X sick must have perished, whilst most of the others^ from their destitute condition, would, of necessity, have been compelled to enlist in the regular army, under General Wilkinson. Such alternatives were neither congenial with their general's wishes, nor such as they had expected, on adventuring with him in the service of their country ; he had carried them from home, and, the fate of war and disease apart, it was his duty, he believed, to bring thera back. To have abandoned them, therefore, at such a time, and under such circumstances, would have drawn on him the merited censure of the most deserving part of his fellow-citizens, and sen- sibly wounded his own generous feelings. Add to this, those young men who were confined by sick- ness, learning the nature of the order he had re- ceived^ implored him, with tears in their eyes, not to abandon them in so great an extremity, remind- ing him, at the same time, of his assurances, that he would be to them as a father, and of the im- plicit confidence they had placed in his word This was an appeal, which it would have been diflicult for the feelings of Jackson to have resisted, had it been without the support of other weighty consid- erations ; but, influenced by them all, he had no hesitation in coming to a determination. Having made known his resolution to the field- officers of his division, it met, apparently, their ap probation; but, after retiring from his presence, they assembled late at night, in secret caucus, and proceeded to recommend to him an abandonment ef his purpose, and an unmediate discharge of bis M idwm or aiirsRAL jacksom. troops. Great u wm the utonuhmeHt, wkick tkia mewure excited in the general, it produced a itil] higher ■entiinent of indignation. In reply, he urg- ed the duplicity of their conduct, and reminded them, that, although to those who possessed funds and health, such a course could produce no incon venience, yet to the imfortunate soldier, who was alike destitute of both, no measure could be more calamitous. He concluded by telling them, that his resolution, not haviBg been hastily concluded on, nor bottomed on light considerations, was un- alterably fixed ; and that immediate preparations must be made for carrying into execution the de- termination he had formed. He lost no time in making known to the sec- retary of war the resolution he had adopted ; to disregard the order he had given, and to return hia army to the place where he had received it He painted in strong terms the evils which the course pursued by the government was calculated to pro- duce, and expressed the astonishment he ftlt, that it should have originated with the faraoua author of the "Newburg Letters," the once redoubted advocate of soldiers* rights. General Wilkinson, to whom the public proper- ty was directed to be delivered, learning the de- termination which had been taken by Jackson, to march his troops back, and to take with them so much of that property as should be necessary to their return, in a letter of solemn and mysterious u^port, admonished him of the consequences which were before him, and of the awful and dangerous responsibility he was taking on himself, by so bold a measure. General Jackson replied, that his con- duct, and the consequences to which it might lead. Ufl or CIIVIEAL f AOKffOir. 17 ImmI >mb well confidered, and that he was prepared to abide the reiult, whatever it might be. Wilkin- fon had previously given orders to his officers to recruit from Jackson^s army ; they were advised^ however, on their first appearance, that those troops were already in the service of the United States, and that, thus situated, they should not be enlisted ; and that he would arrest and confine the first offi- cer who dared to enter his encampment with any such object in view. The quarter-maater, having been ordered ti furnish the necessary transportation for the con veyance of the sick and the baggage to Tennes see, immediately set about the performance of th^ task ; but, as the event proved, with not the least intention of executing it Still, he continued to keep up the semblance of exertion ; and, the bet- ter to deceive, the very day before that which had been appointed for breaking up the encampment, and conmiencing the return march, eleven wagons arrived there by his order. The next morning, however, when every thing was about to be packed up, acting doubtless from orders, and intending to produce embarrassment, the quarter-maater entered the encampment, and discharged the whole. He was grossly mistaken in the man he had to deal with, and had now played his tricks too far to be able to accomplish the object which he had, no doubt, been instructed to effect. Disregarding their dismissal, *80 evidently designed to prevent his marching back his men. General Jackson seiz- ed upon these wagons, yet within his lines, and com- pelled them to proceed to the transportation of hia fick. It deserves to be recollected, that this quar> ter-roaster, so soon as he received directions fo* 3 fbrnishing transportation, had despatched an ex- press to General Wilkinson ; and there can be but little doubt, that the course of duplicity he after- tvards pursued, was a concerted plan between him and that general, to defeat the design of Jackson ; compel him to abandon the course he had adopted ; nd, in this way, draw to the regular army many of the soldiers, who, from necessity, would be driv- en to enlist. In this attempt they were fortunately disappointed. Adhering to his original purpose he successfully resisted every stratagem of Wilkin- son, and marched the whole of his division to the section of country whence they had been drawn, aiiii dismissed them from lerrice, as he had beer nstructed. To present an example that might baoy up the sinking spirita of his troops in the arduous march, he yielded up his horses to the sick, and, trudging on foot, encountered .all the bardsbips that were met by the soldiers. It was at, a time of the yeai, when the roads were extremely bad, and the swamps, lying in their passage, deep and full ; yet> under these circumstances, he placed before his troops an example of patience and hardship, tha\. lulled to silence all complaints, and won to him. gtill stronger than before, the esteem and respect of every one. On arnving at Nashville, he com- municated to the president of the United States the course he had pursued, and the reasons that had induced it If it had become necessary, he had Bufficient grounds on which he could have jus tified hia conduct Had he suffered General Wil- kinion to have accomplished what waa clearly his intention, although it was on event which might, at the moment, haxe benefited the fenrice, by add Uni aP •KHKEAI. JACKfOV. ff iif IB ucraued strength to the anny, yet the ex- an^Ie wevid have been of bo serioaii aid excep- tionable a character, that injury would ha^e been the final and unavoidable result Hie conduct, te* rible aa it first appeared, was in the end approved, and the expenses incurred directed to be paid bv (be yttvera— t lilFB or SElTftAAl. JACKtO* CHAPTER n. ttitiaM frrparatvon far hottUUies. — Tectaueh arrtea camongst tfa touthtm tribe* : his inirigues. — Civil wart oftht Creeks. — De- druction of, attd butchery at Fort Mimms. — Expedition against iht indians. — Jackson unites with the arm^, ana enters the ene- My'j country. — Scarcity of tuppUes in hu camp. — Learns the tcasages are unbodied. — S^ks to form a Junction urith the East Tetmessee division.— Detachu General Coffet across the Coosa. —BatiU of TaUushatchee, The volunteers, who had descended the river, having been discharged early in May, there was little expectation that they would again be called for. Tennessee was too remotely situated in the interior of the country to expect their services would be required for her defence, and hitherto the British had discovered no serious intention of waging operations against any part of Louisiana. Their repose, however, was not of long duration. The Creek Indians, inhabiting the country lying between the Chatahochee and Tombigbee, and ex- tending from the Tennessee River to the Florida line, had lately manifested strong symptoms of hostility towards the United States, from which they had received yearly pensions, and every as- sistance which the most liberal policy could bestow* This disposition was greatly strengthened, through means used by the northern Indians, who were then making preparations for a war against the United States, and who wished to engage tht southern tribes in the same enterprise. An artliil impostor had, about this time, sprnif ■p amongat the Bhawnees, who^ by punag tbt a Lira or eBifmRAL jacksow. SI prophet, eomnuMioiwd by the ** Great Sj^rit" to eommimiemto hi* Bumdates to his red children, had aeqaired, among his own and the neighbouring tribea, a«toniahing influence. Clothed, a« tboy be- lieved him to be, with such high powers, they lis- tened to his extravagant doctrines, and in them fiilly confided. He succeeded in kindling a rage against the Anglo-Americans, which soon after burst forth in acts of destructiTe violence. His brother, Te- cnmseh, who became so famous during the war, and who was killed subsequently, at the battle of the Thames, was despatched to the southern tribes, to excite in them the same temper. To the Creeks, by far the most numerous and powerful, he directed his principal attention. Having entered their na- tion, some time in the spring of 1812, he repaired to Tookaubatcha, where he had repeated confer- ences with the chiefs; but, not meeting with the encouragement he expected, returned to the Ala- kama, which he had previously visited, and there commenced operations. Finding there several leaders of great influence, who entered into his views, he was enabled to carry on his schemes with greater success. Deriving his powers from his brother, the Prophet^ whose extnk- erdinary conmiission and endowments were weU understood by all the neighbouring tribes in the south, his auUiority was regarded with the highest veneration. He strongly interdicted all intercourse with the whites, and prevailed on the greater part of the Alabama Indians to throw aside the imple- ments and clothing which that intercourse had fbr- aiihed, and return again to their savage state, ftom which he represented them as highly culptblt fbr kiviag suflered themselves to be MtnagML It 3* n uwm or AiNSRAi. iAcssoa. t wor4, no me&ns were left untried to ezoitt to the moet deadly animoaity and cruel ww. To aflbrd additional weight to hia council*, this do- ngnlnf miiiionary gave aaiurances of aid and rap- port from Great Bntain ; whoee power and riehea he repreaented aa almoet without limita, and quite •ufficient for the subjugation of the United Statea. So conaiderable an influence did his intrigues and diacourses obtain over the niinda of many, that it waa with difficulty the most turbulent of them could be restrained from running immediately to arma, and committing depredations cm the exposed froBr tion. This hasty measure, however he represent- •d aa calculated to defeat the great plan of opera- tiosa which he waa labouring to concert ; and en- joined the utmost secrecy and quietness, until the moment should arrive, when, all their preparationa being ready, they might be able to strike a doci- aive blow ; in the mean time, they were to be indue trioualy employed in collecting arma and ammu- nition, and other necessary implements of war. Having ordained a chief prophet, whose word waa to be regarded as infallible, and whose diree- tiona were to be implicitly followed, and established a regular gradation of inferior dependanta, to dia- aeminate hia doctrines through the different parts of the nation, Tecomseh set oat to his own tribe, accompanied by several of the natives. From this time, a regular conmiunieation wia kept np between the Creeka and the northern tribea, in relation to the great enterprise which they were concerting together; whilst the partiea eanjing it on committed frequent depredations oo tbi froatier aetders. By one of these, in the wui- wm of ISia, aoToral ftuailieo had booB anrdoiod UTB or ^EK%i*L fACHSON. tS in a ahoeking maimer, ne&/ tbe roouth of the Ohio and, shortly afterward i, ar:>ii]3T party, entering the limita of Tenneasee," under circumstances of atih greater barbarity, butchered tv;o families of women and children. Similar outrages were committed on the frontiers of Georgia, and were continued, at intervals, on the inhabitants of Tennessee, along her southern boundary. These multiplied outrages, at length, attracted the attention of the general government, and ap- plication was made, through their agent, (Colonel Hawkins,) to the principal chiefs of the nation, who, desirous of preserving their friendly relation with the United States, resolved to punish the murderers with death ; and immediately appointed a party of warriors to carry their determination into execution. No sooner was this done, than the spirit of the greater part of the nation, which, from policy, had been kept, in a considerable degree, dormant, suddenly burst into a fame, and kindled ;jito civil war. It was not difficult for the friends of those mur derers, who had been put to death, to prevail on others, who secretly applauded the acts for which they suffered, to enter warmly into their resent ments against those who had been concerned In bringmg them to pumshment. An occasion as they believed, was now presented which fiiUy au- thorizea them to throw aside all those mjunctions of secrecy imposed on them by Tecumseh and their prophets. They now resolved to lay aside all restraint, and execute at once their insatiate and long -projected vengeance, not only on the white people, but on those of their own naticNi, who, bj 'i^- ▼» •^: ■; \ thif list tct of retaliatory justice, had unequiyocalljr, •hown ft cUsposition to preserve their ft'ien^^ip * with the former. The war clubs* were immeciiT ^ ately seen in every section of the nation; butnipri^ Darticularly among the numerous hordes resimn^ ^ near Alabama. Brandishing these in their han'^^-^ they rushed, in the first instance, on those of their^ ' own countrymen who had shown a disposition W preserve their relations with the United States, and obliged them to retire towards the white settle- ments, and place themselves in forts, to escape the ^ first ebullition of their rage. Encouraged by this * success, and their numbers, which hourly increas- ed, and infatuated to the highest degree by the . predictions of their prophets, who assured them that the "Great Spirit" was on their side, and would enable them to triumph over all their enemies, they began to make immediate preparations for extend- ing their ravages to the white settlements. Fort Mimms, situated in the Tensaw settlement, in the Mississippi territory,, was the first point destined to satiate their vengeance. It contained, at that time, about one hundred and fifty men, under the conmiajid of Major Beasley, besides a considerable number of women and children, who had betaken themselves to it for security Having collected a supply of anmiunition from the Spaniards at Pensacola, and assembled their warriors, to the number of six or * IhstnuneDts used by the Indian tribes on eommencing hos- dllties; and which, when painted red, they consider a declaration of WW. 'ITiey are formed of a stick, about eirhieen inches in length. witJi a strong piece of shaup iron aflSxed at the end, and resemble a hatchet. They use them principally in ponuit, and after they have bees able to iotroduoe coBBiiioB into tfae naiu . tlFB OF GENERAL. JACEBON. W MTen humired) the war party, commaDded bjr Weatherford, a distinguiflhed chief of the nation, on the 30th of August, commenced their assault on Jie fort ; and, having succeeded in carrying it, put to_^; death nearly three hundred persons, including women and children, with the most savage barbari- ty. The slaughter was indiscriminate : - mercy was extended to none ; and the tomahawk, at the aamo^*" stroke, often cleft the mother and the child. But aeventeen of the whole number in the fort escaped, to brmg intelligence of the dreadful catastrophe. This monstrous and unprovoked outrage was no sooner known in Tennessee, tlian the whole state was thrown into a ferment. Considerable excite- ment had already been produced by brutalities of earlier date, and measures had been adopted by the governor, in conformity with instructions from the secretary of war, for commencing a Ct.. laign against th^m^ but the massacre at Fort Mimms, which threatened to be followed by the entire de- struction of the IMp^ile anHTombigbee settlements,, inspired a deep £nd universal sentiment of solici-" tude, and an earnest wish for speedy and eifectual operations. The anxiety felt on thq , occasion was greatly increased from an apprehension that Gene- ral Jackson would not be able . to corjmand. He was the only man, known in the state, who waa believed qualified to discharge the arduous duties of the staticu, and who could carry with him the complete confidence of his soldiers. He was at tins time seriously indisposed, and confined to his room, with ^ fractured arm ; but, although this ap- piehension iwas seriously indulged, arrangements V^a^ L^ progress, and ii«asuras industriQualy taken. 96 UFB OF OBNBRAL lACKSOH. to prepare and press the expedition with every po»> sible despatch. A numerous collection of respectable citizen^ who convened at Nashville on the 18th of Septem- ber, for the purpose of devising the most effectual ways and means of affording protection to their brethren in distress, after conferring with the gov- ernor and General Jackson, who was still confined to his room, strongly advised the propriety of march- ing a sufficient army into the heart of the Creek na- tion; and accordingly recommended this measure, with great earnestness, to the legislature, which, in a few days afterwards, commenced its session. That body, penetrated with the same sentiments which animated the whole country, immediately enacted a law, authorizing the executive to call into the field thirty-five hundred of the militia, to be marche' against the, Indians; and, to guard against all diiticulties, in the event the general govern- ment should omit to adopt them into their service, three hundred thousand dollars were voted for their support The settlers were fleeing to the interior, and every day brought intelligence that the Creeks, collected in considerable force, were bending theii course towards the frontiers of Tennessee. The governor now issued an order to General Jackson, who, notwithstanding the state of his health, had determined to assume the command, requiring him to call out, and rendezvous at Fayetteville, in the shortest possible time, two thousand of the militia and volunteers of his division, to repel any invasion that might be contemplated. Colonel Coffee, is addition to five hundred cavalry, already raised, un- der hif conunand, was authorised to organiu ini UFl OF eBNIRAL JACKION. t7 receive into his regiment any mountei riflemeo that might make a tender of tiieir se-rvices. Having received these orders, Jackson hastened to give them effect ; and witJi thw object appealed to those volunteers, who, with him, had heretofore descended the Mississippi to Natchez. He urged them to appear at the rendezvous, on the 4th of October, equipped for active service. He pointed out the imperious necessity which demanded their services, and urged them to be punctual; for their frontiers were threatened by a savage foe. In the mean time, until this force could be collected anc organized, Colonel Coffee, with tlie force then un- der his command, and such additional mounted riflemen as could be attached at a short notice, was directed to hasten forward to the neighbourhood of Huntsville, and occupy some eligible position for the defence of the frontier, until the i^nfantry should arrive ; when it was contemplated, by the nearest possible route, to press on to Fort St. Stephen, with a view to the protection and defence of Mississippi. Every exertion was now made to hasten the prep- arations for a vigorous campaign. Orders were given to the quarter-master, to furnish the neces- sary munitions, with tlie proper transportation ; trnd to the contractors, to provide ample supplies of pro- visions. The day of their rendezvous being arriv ed, and the general not being sufficiently recovered to attend in person, he forwarded by his aid-de- camp, Major Reid, an address, to be read to the troops, accompanied by an order for the establish- ment of the police of tlie camp. For the police of his camp, he announced the following order : 19 UWm OF aSNIEAL JACKSON. < they should return, if ^-elief did not reach thei* m two days, had indulged a confidence that it would certainly arrive by that time ; and now from the information he had received, felt raor" than ever certain that it could not be far distant- Having, however, pledged himself, he could use nc arguments or entreaties to detain them any longer, and immediately took measures for complying with their wishes, and the promise he had made them. This was, to him, a moment of the deepest dejec- tion. He foresaw how difiicult it would be ever to accomplish the object upon whi^.h his heart was «o devoutly fixed, should he lose the men who were ura or GSNisiiL Skcjuoti. 66 now with him ; or even to regain the conquesta h* had made, if his present post ? should fall into the hands of the enemy. V/hile thus pondering on the gloomy prospect, he lifted up his hands, and ex- claimed, with a look and manner which showed how much he felt, " If only two men will remain with me, I will never abandon this post." Captain Gordon, of the spies, facetiously replied, "you have one, general ; let us look if we can't find an- other ;" and immediately, with a zeal suited to the occasion, undertook, with some of the general staff, to raise volunteers ; and in a little while succeeded in procuring one hundred and nine, who declared a determination to remain and protect the post. The general, greatly rejoiced that he would not be com polled to an entire abandonment of his position, now set out towards Deposit, with the remainder of the army, who were given distinctly to under- stand, that on meeting supplies they were to return md prosecute the campaign. This was an event, which, as it had been expected and foretold, soon took place ; they had not proceeded more than ten or twelve miles, when they met a hundred and fifty beeves ; but a sight which gave to Jackson so much satisfaction, was to them the most unwelcome. Their faces being now turned towards home, no spectacle could be more hateftd than one which was to change their destination. They were halted, and, having satisfied their appetites, the troops, with the exception of such as were neces- sary to proceed with the sick and wounded, were ordered to return to the encampment ; he himself intending to see the contractors, and establish more e'^--tual arrangements for the fiiture. So great u = their arersion to retummg, that they preferred M UWK or OBNBIIAL JACKSON. a violKtion of their duty and their pledged honour Low murmurings ran along the lines, and presently broke out into open mutiny. In spite of the order they had received, they began to revolt, and one company was already moving off, in a direction towards home. They had proceeded some distance, before information of their departure was had by Jackson. Irritated at their conduct, in attempting to violate the promise they had given, the general pursued, until he came near a part of his staff, and a few soldiers, who, with General Coffee, had halted about a quarter of a mile ahead. He or dered them to form immediately across the road, and to fire on the mutineers if they attempted to proceed. Snatching up their arms, these faithful adherents presented a front which threw the de- serters into afiright, and caused them to retreat recipitately to the main body. Here, it was hoped, he matter would qnd, and that no further oppo- sition would be made to returning. This expecta- tion waa not realized ; a mutinous temper began presently to display itself throughout the whole brigade. Jackson, having left his aid-de-camp, Major Reid, engaged in making up some despatch- es, had gone out alone amongst his troops, who were at some distance ; on his arrival, he found a much more extensive mutiny than that which had just been quelled. Almost the whole brigade had put Itself into an attitude for moving forcibly off. A crisis had arrived ; and, feeling its importance, ne determined to take no middle ground, but to triumph or perish. He waa still without the use of his loft arm ; but, seizing a musket, and resting it on the neck of his horse, he threw hiuiself in front ef the colunm, and threatened to shoot the first urm or qbnibal lACSfoif. €7 man who should attempt to advance. In thui'irtna- tion he was found by Major Reid and General Coffee, who, fearing, from the length of his ab- sence, that some disturbance had arisen, hastened where he was, and, placing themselves by his side, awaited the result in anxious expectation F^^^ many minutes tlie column preserved a eulLjn, yet hesitating attitude, fearing to proceed in th Ai pur- pose, and disliking to abandon it. In the mean tirae^ those who remained faithful to their duty, amount- ing to about two companies, were collected and formed at a short distance in advance of the troops, and in rear of the general, with positive directions to imitate his example in firing, if they attempted to proceed. At length, finding no one bold enough to advance, and overtaken by those fears which in the hour of peril always beset persons engaged in what they know to be a bad cause, they abandoned their purpose, and, turning quietly round, agreed to return to their posts. It is very certam, that, but for the firmness of the general, at this critical mo- ment, the campaign would have been broken up, and most probably not commenced again. Shortly after the battle of Talladega, the Hilla- bee tribes applied to General Jackson for peace , declaring their willingness to receive it on such terms as he might be pleased to dictate. His de- cision had been already returned _ stating to them that his government had taken up arms, to bring to a proper sense of duty a people to whom she had ever shown the utmost kindness, and who, never theless, had committed against her citizer;s the most unprovoked depredations ; and that rfie A'ou.d lay them dowr ouiy when certain that ^r* clj^ct 6* 68 idwm or oinbral iacksow. was attained. ♦ " Upon those," continued he, ** wh« are disposed to become friendly, I neither wish noi intend to make war; but they most a£fbrd eW' dences of the sincerity of their professions ; the prisoners and property they have taken from ns, and the friendly Creeks, must be restored ; the in- stigators of the war, and the murderers of our citizens, must be surrendered ; the latter must and win be made to feel the force of our resentment Long shall they remember Fort Minmis in bitter ness and tears." Having stated to General Cocke, whose divisioB was acting in this section of the nation, the propo sitions that had been made by the Hillabee clans, with the answer he had returned, he proceeded to Deposit and Ditto's Landing, where the most effec- tual means m his power were taken with the contrac tors, for obtaining regular supplies in fiiture. They were required to furfiish, immediately, thirty days' rations at Fort Strother, forty at Talladega, and as many at the junction of the Coosa and Tallapoosa ; two hundred pack horses and forty wagons wero put in requisition to facilitate their transportation * This conununication did not arrive in time, — General White, who haul been detached for that purpose, having, the morning; op which it waa written, destroyed their town, Mlled sixty, and made two hundred and fifty-six prisoners. The event wa« un fortunate; and in it may perhaps be found the reaison why ihese savages, in their after battles, fought with the desperation they did, obstinately reftisuig to ask for quarter. They Believed themselves attacked by Jackson's army ; they knew they had asked peace upon his own terms. When, tnerefore, under these circumstances, they saw themselves thus assailed, they no longer considered that any pacific disposition they might manifest would afford them protection 6rom danger; and looked upon it as • war of extermination. In their battles, afterwards, there is no insian o e of their asking ibr quarter, or even Bauteti^g » dis to receive it Ura OP GENERAL JACKSON. €# Umderfltandiog, now, that the whole detachment from Tenneeaee had, by the president, been re ceived into the service of the United States, he persuaded himself that the difficulties he had heretofore encountered would not recur. The volunteers at Deposit began to manifest the same unwillingness to return to their duty that the militia had done, and were about to break out inio the same spirit of mutiny and revolt ; but were restrained by an animated address by the general. He now set out on his return to Fort Strother. and was delighted to find, by the progress of the works, the industry that had been used in his ab- sence. But the satisfaction he felt was of short continuance ; although he had succeeded in stillifvg the tumult of the volunteers, and in prevailing on them to return to their posts, it was soon discovered he had not eradicated their deep-rooted aversion to a further prosecution of the war. The volunteers who had so lately clamoured about bread, when they were no longer hungry, began to clamour, with equal earnestness, about their term of service. Having lately made an effort to forsake the drudg- ery of the field, and failed, they were disposed to avail themselves of any pretexts, seemingly plausi- ble, to obtain success. They insisted that the period, for which they had undertaken to act, would end on tlie 10th of December, that being the ter- mination of a year from the day they had first entered into service , and, although they had been a greater part of the time unemployed, that recess was nevertheless to be taken into the computation. Jackson replied, that the law of congress, under which they had been accepted, requiring one year'f 6 tdn or «INBBAL lACBflON. Mirice ocit of two, could contemplate nothing \em than an actual service of three hundred and sixty- five days ; and, until that were performed, he could not, unless specially authorized, undertake to dis- charge them. Ordering General Roberts to return, and fill up the deficiencies in his brigade, he now despatched Colonel Carroll, and Major Searcy, one of his aids-de-camp, into Tennessee, to raise vol unteers for six months, or during the campaign , writing to many respectable characters, he ex horted them to contribute all their assistance to the accomplishment of this object. To a letter, just received from the Reverend Gideon Black- burn, assuring him that volunteers from Tennessee would eagerly hasten to his relief, if they knew their services were wanted, he replied, " Reverend Sir, — Your letter has been just received : I thank you for it ; I thank you most sincerely. It arrived at a moment when my spirits needed such a sup- port "I left Tennessee with an army, brave, I be- lieve, as any general ever commanded. I have seen them in battle, and my opimon of their bravery is not changed. But their fortitude — on this too I relied — has been too severely tested. Perhaps 1 was wrong, in believing that nothing but death could conquer the spirits of brave men. I am sure I was ; for my men, I know, are brave ; yet priva tions have rendered them discontented: — that is enough. The expedition must, nevertheless, be prosecuted to a successful termination. New vol tmteers must be raised, to conclude what Las been so auspiciously begun by the old ones. Gladly WDoId I save tiiese men from themselves, and en Ura OF GBNiSRAL JACKSOM. 71 iure them a harvecit which they have sown ; b JOM, who would decide upon it in the shorlest Lira OF SElfERAL JACKSON 7# poanble time." This was truly disafreeable newt to the general. On the brigade of Coffee he had placed great reliance, and, from the pledges it had given him, entertained no fears but that it would return and act with him, as soon as he should be ready to proceed. The signers of that address, observes the gen- eral, commence by saying, " that jealousy is pre- vailing in our camp, with respect to the understand- ing between themselves and the government rela- tive to the service required of them ; and, believing t to be its policy to act fairly, are of opinion that d full explanation of their case will have a good effect m promoting the cause in which they are engaged." There was but a single course left; to point them to the pledge they had given, and appeal di- rectly to their honour, believing that if this were unsuccessful, there was "nothing by which he could hope to hold them." Jackson had just received a letter from the gov- ernor of Tennessee, in answer to his frequent and pressmg inquiries, as to the disposition which should be made of the volunteers. It recommended what had already, from necessity, been done ; to dis- miss not discharge them, because the latter was not in the power of either of them : — nor was their dismission to be given because founded in right ; but because, under existing circumstances, their presence could not prove beneficial, but highly injurious. To induce them contentedly to remain, the governor had suggested but one argument, which had not already been unsuccessfully attempts ed ; « that it was very doubtful if the government would pay them for the services they had ilreadf 7* ■D Ura or GKNBR4L lACKlOJf. • rendered, if abandoned without her actthoritjr* The letter was therefore enclosed for their in- spection, accompanied with these remarks :-~^ I have jnat received a letter from Governor Blount, which I hasten to transmit, that you may avail yourselves of whatever benefits and privileges it holds out You will .perceive, that he does not consider he has any power to discharge you : — neither have I: — but you have my permission to retire from the service, if you are still desirous, and are prepared to risk the consequences." These letters, so far from answering the desired end, had a contrary efffect The governor's was no sooner read, than they eagerly laid hold of it to support the resolution ^ey had already formed , and, without further ceremony or delay, abandoned the campaign, with their colonel at their head, who, so far from having endeavoured to reconcile them, is believed, by secret artifices, to have fbmented their discontents. So general was the dissatisfaction of this brig- ade, and with such longing anxiety did they indulge the hope of a speedy return to their homes, that their impatience did not permit them to wait the return of the messenger from head-quarters. Be- fore an answer could reach General Cofiee, they had broken up their encampment at Deposit, re- crossed the river, and proceeded four miles beyond Huntsville. On . receiving it. Coffee had ♦he brig- ade drawn up in solid column, and the letters, together with the pledge they had given, read to them; after which the Reverend Mr. Blackburn endeavoured in an eloquent speech, in which he pointed out the ruinous consequences that were to be apprehended, if they persisted in their preteol LIFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. 81 purpose, to recall them to a sense of duty, and of honou'- : but, they had formed their resolution too etecidfastly, and had gone too extravagant lengths, to be influenced by the letter, the pledge, oi ih(. speech. As to tlie pledge, a few said they nad not authorized it to be made ; others, that, as the general had not returned an immediate acceptance, they did not consider themselves bound by it; but the greater part candidly acknowledged, that they stood committed, and were without any justification for their present conduct Thus, in a tumultuous manner, they abandoned their post and their duty, and, committing innumerable extravagances, re gardless alike of law and decency, continued tlieii route to their respective homes. UWm OP OKNUUL JACKSOW. CHAPTER IV DuconttnU cftht mUitia. — Oovemor Blount rtc o m m a u ia eon abcm donmmt of the service. — Jackson's reply to his letter. — Thi governor taken measures for bringing mA a sufficient forct.-~ Conduct of Oeneral Roberts. — His brigade retires from ser vice. — Lieidenant Kearley. — Arrival of additional' forces. — Arrest of officers. — Expedition vainst tlie Indians. — His motives. — Battle of Emuckfaic. — Ueneral Coffee proceeds to destroy the enemy's fortifkaitons. — Second battle of Emuck- faw. — Troops commence' tneit return march. — Ambuscadt formed by the bidicms. — Battle of Enotichopco But, whilst these unfortunate events were tran Bpiring in the rear, matters were far from wearing an encouraging aspect at head-quarters. The brigade of West Tennessee militia, consisting of only about six hundred, imitating the evil examples of others, began to turn their attention towards home. Believing that three months constituted the tour of duty contemplated in the act under which they engaged, they insisted that it would termin- ate on the 4th of the ensuing month. It is true, the act had not defined the term of their engage- ment ; but it had specified the object of calling them out, viz. to subdue the Indians ; — and, as that object had not yet been attained, it was believed, that, at present, they were not entitled to a dis- charge. These troops, although raised by the itate authorities, had been, by the particular re- commendation of the legislature, received into the service of the general government, under the act of congress authorizing the president to call out a hundred thousnnd militia, to serve for six months, unlen by hit own order they ihoald be prerioQfllj Ufn or OlfflEAL lACKlOll. ti diflrmiMed. The militi& of East Tennessee, ha?ing been specially mustered into service for three months, would, of course, be entitled to claim their disDiissal at the expiration of that period ; hence Colonel Lilliard's regiment, which constituted more than one half the present force at head-quarters, would be lost to the service on the 14th of the oext month. With the failure of General Cocke, to bring into the field the number and description of troops which he had been ordered to raise under the requisition of the president, as well as with the temper and demands of those who were in ser\ice, Jack- son kept the governor of Tennessee correctly ad- vised, and omitted no opportunity of entreating him, in the most pressing manner, to take the earliest measures for supplying by draft, or volun- tary enlistment, the present deficiency, aa well as that which, from every appearance, was soon to be expected. To these solicitations, he had now re- ceived the governor's answer, who stated, that, having given an order to bring into the field fifteen hundred of the detached militia, as was required by the secretary of war, and a thousand volunteers, under the act of the legislature of Tennessee of the ^24th September, he did not feel himself authorized to grant any new mandate, although satisfied that the first had not been complied with ; that he view- ed the further prosecution of the campaign, at- tended as it was with so many embarrassments, as a fruitless endeavour ; and concluded by recom- mending, as advisable, to withdraw the troops into tlie settlements, and suspend all active operationt antil the general government should provide more 0fiectual means for conducting it to a favourable 84 UFI or SBNBRAL JACKSON. refult Jackson, far fVom having any intention to jrield to this advice, detennined to oppose it Still. however, he was ^eatly concerned at the view the chief magistrate of his state seemed to take of a question of such vital importance ; and immediately proceeded to unfold himself fuUy, and to suggest the course, which, he believed, on the present oc- casion, it behooved them both to pursue : pointing out the ruinous consequences that might be expected to result from the adoption of the measure he had undertaken to recommend : — he continues : " Had your wish, that I should discharge a part of my force, and retire, with the residue, into the settlements, assumed the form of a positive order, it might have furnished me some apology foi pur- suing such a course ; but by no means a full justi- fication. As you would have no power to give such an order, I could not be inculpable in obeying, with my eyes open to the fatal consequences that would attend it. But a bare recommendation, founded, as I am satisfied it must be, on the artful suggestions of those fire-side patriots, who seek, in a failure of the expedition, an excuse for their own supineness, — and upon the misrepresentations of the discontented from the army, who wish it to be be- lieved, that the difficulties which overcame tlieir pat- noism are wholly insurmountable — would afford me but a feeble shield against the reproaches of my country or ray conscience. Believe me, my respected friend, the remarks I make proceed from the purest personal regard. If you would preserve your reputation, or that of the state over which you preside, you must take a straight-forward, determin- ed course ; regardless of the applause or censure of the populace, and of the forebodings of thai UFK OP GENERAL JACKSON. 86 dutardly and designing crew who, at a time like thi0, may be expected to clamour continually in vour ears. The very wretches who now beset you with evil counsel, will be the first, should the measures which they recommend eventuate in dis- aster, to call down imprecations en your head, and load you with reproaches. Your country is in dan- ger : — apply its resources to its defence ! Can any course be more plain ? Do you, my friend, at such a moment as the present, sit with your arms folded, ind your heart at ease, waiting a solution of your doubts, and a definition of your powers ? Do you wait for special instructions from the secretary at war, which it is impossible for you to receive in time for the danger that threatens ? How did the venerable Shelby act, under similar circumstances ; or, rather, under circumstances by no means so critical ? Did he wait for orders to do what every man of sense knew — ^what every patriot felt — to be right ? He did not ; and yet how highly and justly did the government extol his manly and energetic conduct! and how dear has his name become to every friend of his country ! " You say, that an order to bring the necessary quota of men into the field has been given, and that of course your power ceases ; and, although yc.i are made sensible that the order has been wholly neglected, you can take no measure to remedy the omission. Widely difierent, indeed, is my opinion. I consider it your unperious duty, when the men, laJed for by your authority, founded upon that of the gorernmeni, are known not to be in the field, to see that they be brought there ; and to take im- mediate measures with the officer, who, charged with the execution of your order, omits or neglecli W Lira OF QSNIftAL JACKSON. to do h;. Ab the executive of the state, it lb youi duty to see that the full quota of troops be con- stantly kept '.u the field, for the time they have been required. You are responsible to the govern- ment ; your officer to you. Of what avail is it, to give an order, if it be never executed, and may be disobeyed with impunity? Is it by empty man- dates that we can hope to conquer our enemies, and save our defenceless frontiers from butchery and devastation ? Beliere me, my valued friend, there are times when it is highly criminal to shrink from responsibility, or scruple about the exercise of our powers. There are times when we must t isregard punctilious etiquette, and think only of serving our country. What is really our present situation.- The enemy we have been sent to sub- due may be said, if we stop at this, to be only ex- asperated. The commander in chief. General Pinck- ney, who supposes me by this time prepared for renewed operations, has ordered me to advance and form a junction with the Georgia army ; and, ujwn the expectation that I will do so, are all his arrangements formed for the prosecution of the campaign. Will it do to defeat his plans, and jeop- ardize the safety of the Georgia army ? The gen- eral government, too, believe, and have a right to believe, that we have now not less than five thou- sand men in the heart of the enemy's country , and on this opinion are all their calculations bottomed ; and must they all be frustrated, and I become the matrument by which it is done? God forbid! " You advise me to discharge or dismiss from ser nee, until the will of tlie president can bo known, such portion of the militia as have rendered three months' service. This advice astonishes me^ eveo Lk. it Ov' QfiNERAL JACKBON. 87 DK>re than the former. I have no such discretiona- ry power ; and if I had it would be impolitic and ruinous to exercise it I believed the militia, who were not specially received for a shorter period, were engaged for six months, unless the objects of the expedition should be sooner attained ; and in this opinion I was greatly strengthened by your letter of the 15th, in which you say, when answer- ing my inquiry upon tliis subject, ' the militia are detached for six months' service ;' nor did I know or suppose, you had a different opinion, until the arrival of your last letter. This opinion must, 1 suppose, agreeably to your request, be made known to General Roberts's brigade, and then the conse- quences are not difficult to be foreseen. Every man belonging to it will abandon me on the 4th of next month ; nor shall I have the means of pre- venting it, but by the application of force, which, under such circumstances, I shall not be at liberty to use. I have laboured hard to reconcile these men to a continuance in service until they could be hon- ourably discharged, and had hoped I had, in a great measure, succeeded ; but your opinion, operating with their own prejudices, will give a sanction to their conduct, and render useless any further at- tempts. The^ ./ill go ; but I can neither discharge nor dismiss them. Shall I be told, that, as they will go, it may as well be peaceably permitted ? Can that be any good reason why I should do an unautho- rized act' Is it a good reason why I should vio- late the order of my superior officer, and evince a willingness to defeat the purposes of my goverD- ment? And wherein Joes the 'sound policy' of t\ aeasures that have been recommended coniiat^ Oi m what way are they 'likely to proa^te the 88 UrS OF GENERAL JACKSOM. public good ?' Is it sound policy to abandon a con- quest thus far made, and deliver up to havoc, or add to the number of our enemies, those friendly Creeks and Cherokees, who, relying on our protection, have espoused our cause, and aided us with their anns ? Is it good policy to turn loose upon our defenceless frontiers five thousand exasperated savages, to reek tlieir hands once more in the blood of our citizens ? What ! retrograde under such circumstances !. I will perish first. No ; I will do my duty : I will hold the posts I have established, until ordered to abandon them by the commanding general, or die in the struggle ; — long since have I determined not to seek the preservation of life at the sacrifice of reputation. " But our frontiers, it seems, are to be defended ; and by whom ? By the very force that is now re commended to be dismissed : for I am first told to retire into the settlenSents and protect the frontiers , next, to discharge my troops ; and then, that no measures can be taken for raising others. No, ray friend, if troops be given me, it is not by loitering on the frontiers that I wiU seek to give protection — tliey are to be defended, if defended at all, in a very diflferent manner ; — by carrying the war into the heart of the enemy's country. All other hopes of defence are more visionary than dreams. What, then, is to be done ? I'D tell you what. You have only to act with the energy and decision the crisis demands, and all will be well. Send me a force engaged for six months, and I will answer for the result ; — but withhold it, and all is lost, — the repu- tation of the ftate, and your's, and mine along WAtb it" Ura OP OBNBRAL IACK80N. 8^ Thii letter had considerable effect with the gov- enior. On receiving it, he immediately determined on a course of greater efficiency, and ordered from the second division twenty-five hundred of the mi- litia, for a tour of three months, to rendezvous at Payetteville on the 28th of January. The com- mand was given to Brigadier-General Johnston, with orders to proceed, without delay, to Fort Strother He instructed General Cocke to execute the order he had received from Jackson, for raising from his division his required quota of troops, and to bring them to the field as early as possible. General Roberts, who had been ordered back to supply the deficiencies in his brigade, returned on the 27th with one hundred and ninety-one men, mustered for three months. Having halted them a few miles in rear of the camp, he proceeded thither hunself, to learn of the commanding general, whether the troops he had brought on would be re- ceived for the term they had stipulated, as they were unwilling to advance farther until this point was settled. Jackson answered, that although he greatly preferred they should be engaged for six months, yet he had no wish to alter any engagement made with General Roberts, and would gladly re- ceive them for that period. Notwithstanding this assurance, for some unknown cause, they suddenly formed the determination to return home, without gaining even a sight of the camp. To the miscon- duct of their general, was it justly to be attributed. The careless indifference with which General Roberts had first treated the affair had subsided ; and his fears took the alarm on receiving from Gen- eral Jackson an order to parade immediately before tbo fort tho men he bad reportod as brougbl into to UfB OF eiNl&AL JACKSON the field. He came forward to excuse what hid happened, and to solicit permission to go in pursuit of the refugees. Overtaking them, at the distance of twenty miles, he endeavoured, in a very gentle manner, to soothe their discontents, and prevail on them to return ; but, having been discharged, they laughed at the folly of his errand. Unable to effect his object, he remained with them during the night ; and in the morning set out for camp, and his new recruits for home. On arriving at head-quar- ters, he ascribed his failure to the practices of cer- tain officers, whom he named, and who, he said, had stirred up a spirit of mutiny and desertion among the men to such a degree, that all his efforts to retain them had proved unavailing. Jackson, who could not view this mcident with the same indifference that Roberts did, immediately issued an order, directing him to proceed, forthwith, in pur- suit of the deserters, and have them brought back. In the execution of this order, he was conunanded to call to his aid any troops in the United States' service within the county of Madison, or in the state of Tennessee, and to exert all his power and au- thority, as a military officer, within his own brigade , and, in the event he should not be able to collect a sufficient force to march them safely to head- quarters, to confine them in jails, and make a re- port thereof without delay. This order was ac- coiipanied with an assurance, that all who should return willingly to their duty, except those officers who had been reported as the instigators, would be pardoned. Many of the men, and several of the officers, who had been charged as encouraging the "evolt, learning the nature of the proceedings which were about to be enforced against them, returned of UWM OP OBNIRAL JACKflON. f 1 their own accord to camp ; n^id concurred in a«* cribing their late misconduct entirely to their gen- eral. He waa afterwards arrested, and, upon this and other charges exhibited against him, sentenced by a court-martial to be cashiered. The day arrived, when that portion of the militia, which had continued in service, claimed to be dis- charged ; and insisted that, whether this were given to them or not, they would abandon the campaign, and return home. Jackson believed them not en- titled to it, and hence, that he had no right to give it ; but, since Governor Blount had said differently, and his opinion had been promulgated, he felt it to be improper that he should attempt the exercise of authority to detain them. Nevertheless, believing it to be his duty to keep them, he issued a general order, commanding all persons in the service of the (Jmced States, under his command, not to leave the encampment without his written permission, under the penalties annexed, by the rules and articles of war, to the crime of desertion. This was accom- panied by an address, in which they were exhorted by all those motives which he supposed would be most likely to have any influence, to remain at their posts until they could be legally discharged Neither the order nor the address availed any thing. On the morning of the 4th of January, the officer of the day reported, that on visiting his guard, half after ten o'clock, he found neither the officer, (Lieu- tenant Kearley,) nor any of the sentinels at their posts. Upon this mforraation. General Jackson or- dered the arrest of Kearley, who refiised to sur- render his sword, alleging it should protect him to Termessee ; that he was a free man, and not si ' iect to the orders of General Jackson, or any body - > 8* M UWm OP eCNERAL lACKaOlf. Thii being made known to the general, he issued, immediately, this order to the adjutant-general: « You will forthwith cause the guards to parade, with Captain Gordon's company of spies, and arrest Lieutenant Kearley ; and, in case you shall be re- sisted in the execution of this order, you are com- manded to oppose force to force, and arrest hhn at all hazards. Spare the efiusion of blood, if possi- ble ; but mutiny must and shall be put down." Colonel Sitler, with the guards and Gordon's com- pany, immediately proceeded in search, and found him at the head of his company, on the lines, which were formed, and about to be marched off. He was ordered to halt, but refused. The adjutant general, finding it necessary, directed the guards to stop him ; and again demanded his sword, which he again refused to deliver. The guards were com- manded to fire on him»if he did not immediately de- liver it, and had already cocked their guns. At this order, the lieutenant cocked his, and his men followed the example. General Jackson, informed of what was passing, had hastened to the scene, and, arriving at this moment, personally demanded of Kearley his sword, which he still obstinately re fused to deliver. Incensed at his conduct, an^ viewing the example as too dangerous to be passe<) in silence, he snatched a pistol from his holster and was already levelling it at the breast of Kear ley, when the adjutant-general, interposing betweea them, urged him to surrender his sword. At this moment, a friend of the lieutenant, who was present, drew it from the scabbard, and presented it to Colo- nel Sitler, who refused to receive it It was then returned to Kearley, who now delivered it, and was placed under guard. During this crisis, hcth par< urm or general jackiom. ft tiet remained with their arms ready, and prepared for firing ; and a scene of bloodshed was narrowly escaped. Kearloy, confined, and placed under guard, be came exceedingly penitent, and supplicated the general for a pardon. He stated that the absence of the sentinels from their post had been owing to the advice of the brigade-major ; that not delivering his sword, when first demanded, was attributable to the influence of others, who had persuaded him it was not his duty to do so ; that he had afterwards come to the determination to surrender himself, but was dissuaded by those who assured him it would oe a sacrifice of character, and that they would share, and protect him, in the hour of danger ; why ae still resisted, in the presence of the general, was, that, being at the head of his company, and laving undertaken to carry them home, he was re- strained, at the moment, by a false idea of honour. Phis application was aided by certificates of several of the most respectable officers then in camp, at- testing his previously uniform good behaviour, -^d expressing a belief that his late misconduct was wholly to be attributed to the interference of others. Influenced by these reasons, the general thought proper to order his liberation, and his sword to be restored. Never was a man more sensible of the favour he had received, or more devoted to his benefactor, than he afterwards became. While these proceedings were taking place, the rest of the brigade, with the exception of Captain Willis's company, and twenty-nine of his men, con- tinued their march towards home, leaving behind^ for the further prosecution of the campaign, and the defence of Fort Strother, a single regiment of #4 Liri OF GBNBRAL JACK80N. militia, whose term of service was within t few weeks of expiring ; two small companies of spies, and one of artillery. Difficulties were constantly pressing ; and whilst one moment gave birth to expectation, the next sen'ed but to destroy it. Jackson had been ad- vised, and was buoyed by the hope, that adequate numbers would shortly come to his relief; and, un- til this could be accomplished, it was desirable to retain those who then were with him, to give to his posts increased protection. Whilst measures were adopting in Tennessee to effect this fully, about a thousand volunteers were moving out, to preserve an appearance of opposition, and keep se- cure what had been already gained. With tliit' force, added to what he already had, if in his powei to keep them, he believed he would be able to ad- vance on the enemy, make a diversion in favour of the Georgia army, and obtain other important ad mon- tages. With this view, he had addressed this regi- ment, and brought before them such considerations as might be supposed calculated to excite a soldier's ardour. But they almost unanimously refused to re- main beyond the period of their engagement. As nothing but an unnecessary consumption of supplies was now to be expected from detaining troops so spiritless, orders were given for taking up the line of march to Fort Armstron;?, on the 10th ; whence they were directed to proceed to Knox ville, and receive orders for their discharge. Meantime, the volunteers, lately raised, had ar- rived at Huntflville, where they had been directed to remain until sufficient supplies could be had at head quarters. Could they have proceeded direct- y on, they would have reached the general suffi ■*? UFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. 95 ciently early to have enabled him to proceed agam&t the enemy before the period at which the remnant of his troops would have been entitled to a dis charge. His exertions to have in readiness the arrangements necessary to the accomplishment of this end, had been indefatigable. General Cocke had been directed to give instructions to his quar- ter-master, to forward to Fort Strother such pro- visions as should arrive at Fort Armstrong ; to pro- ceed thence to Ross's, and make arrangements for the speedy transportation, from that place to De posit, of Jill tlie bread stuff which the contractor had been required to collect at that depot ; and to have procured a competent supply of that article, as well for the troops then in the field, as for those which had been ordered to be raised. The more certainly to effect this object, he had, on the 20th of December, despatched his own quarter-master and adjutant-general to Deposit and Huntsville, to push on what should be collected at those places ; ajid had, at the same time, despatched one of the sub-contractors from camp, with directions to examine the situation of the different depots ; and, if found insufficient to meet the requisition he had made, to proceed immediately to the settlements in Tennessee, and procure the necessary supplies. To the contractors themselves he had addressed orders and exhortations almost without number • and, indeed, from every source, and through every channel that the hope of relief could be discerned, had he directed his exertions to obtain it. On the second of January, Colonel CarroU and Mr. Blackburn arrived at head-quarters, tc receive imtructions how the volunteers should be organized •nd brought up. Having reported their Btren|rth tt M im OP eSNERAL JACK.80n. be eight hundred and fifty, they were directed to oave them formed, as had been desired, into two regiments, under officers of their own choice ; and an order was put into their hands, requiring Gene- ral Coffee, who was then at Huntsville, to march them to Fort Strother, by the 10th instant. That officer, whose feelings had been aifficiently har- rowed by the late conduct and defection of his brigade, learning that those troops were unwilling for him to have command of them, had exnressed a wish to General Jackson that it might not be a.s- signed him ; in consequence of which, and their own request, the latter had determined, after their arri- val at his camp, that there should be no intermediate commander over them, between their colonels and himself. With this proposed arrangement, those gentlemen had been instructed to maice the troops acquainted ; and were particularly requested to use their best endeavours to remove any erroneous im- pressions that might have been made upon their minds. General Coffee, having received the instructions of General Jackson, immediately gave orders to Colonels Perkins and Higgins, who had been chosen to the command of the two regiments, to march di- rectly for head-quarters. To his entire astonish- ment, both these officers reftised to obey ; alleg- ing, in a written statement they made, that General Coffee had no right to exercise command over them, and that they would disregard any he might at- tempt to claim. One of them not only refused obe- dience to the order, but even went so fkr as to re fiwe to return it, or permit the brigade-inspector to take a copy ; thereby placing it out of his power to make it known to the rest of the bri|^e. UWU OP eENFRil. lACKBON. 97 Unwilling aa Coffee waa to cwate any additional perplexities to the commanding' general, he felt himself constrained to demand the arregt of tliose officers. Notwithstanding the weighty consideraticea which had been urged to produce an expeditious movement, it was not until the 13th that those offi- cers, with their regiments, reached head-quarters. Finding they were likely to be noticed, on charges which their better-informed friends advised would not only deprive them of command, but involve them in disgrace, they immediately made an hon- ourable concession, in which they pleaded igno- rance of military duty, as an excuse for their mis- conduct. The whole effective force consisted, at this tune, by the reports, of little more than nine hundred men. Being addressed by the general, on the 15th, tiie mounted troops commenced their march to We- iiogee Creek, tlirre miles from the fort. Jackson, with his staff, ahd the artillery company, joined them next morning, and continued the line of march to Talladega, where about two hundred friendly Indians, Cherokees and Creeks, badly armed, and much discouraged at the weakness of his force, were added to his numbers, without increasinp- much his strength. Seldom, perhaps, has there been an expedition undertaken, fraught with great- er peril. Nine hundred new recruits, entirely nn- acquainted with the duties of the field, were to be marched into the heart of an enemy's country, without a single hope of escape, but from victory, and that victory not to be expected, but from tde wisest precaution, and most determined bravery 9* Um OF OBNERAL JACKSOlf. Although w) obviously pregnant with danger, t« inarch was the on}y alternative that could be adopt- ed. No other could afford a diversion favourable to General Floyd, who was advancing with the ar- my from Georgia, or give favourable results to the campaign, without which it must soon have been ibandoned, for want of men to prosecute it. An- other reason rendered such a movement indispen- sable. The officer commanding at Fort Armstrong had received intelligence, that the warriors from fourteen or fifteen towns on the Tallapoosa were about to unite their forces, and attack that place ; which, for the want of a sufficient garrison, was in a defenceless situation. Of this General Jackson had been advised. The present movement, hazard- ous as it was, was indispensable, and could alone prevent the execution of such a purpose. On reach- ing Talladega, he received a letter from the com- mandant at Fort Armstrong, confirmatory of the first information. One also from Geaeral Pinckney, by express, arrived, advising him that Floyd, on the 1 0th instant, would move from Coweta, and, in ten days thereafter, establish a position at Tuckabat- chee; and recommended, if his force would allow him to do no more, that he should advance against such of the enemy's towns as might be within con- venient distance ; that, by having his troops em- ployed, he might keep disafiection from his ranks, and be, at the same time, serviceably engaged in harassing the enemy. If, therefore, he could have hesitated before, there was now no longer any room X) do so. By an expeditious movement, he might ■ave Fort Armstrong, and render an essential ser- vice to General Floyd, by detaching a part of the elana destined to proceed against him. UFB OF GENERAL JACK80N. 99 As he progpressed on the march, a want of the necessary knowledge in his pilots, of subordination in his troops, and skill in the officers who com- manded them, became more and more apparent; but still their ardour to meet the enemy was not .^bated. On the evemng of the 2 let, sensible, from the trttlls he had fallen in upon, fresh, and converging to a point, that he must be in the neighbourhood of the enemy, Jackson encamped his little array in a hollow square, on an eligible site, upon the eminen- ces of Erauckfaw, sent out his spies, posted his pickets, doubled his sentinels, and made the neces- sary arrangements to guard against attack. About midnight the spies came in and reported they had discovered a large encampment of Indians, at about tliree miles distance, who, from their whooping and dancing, were no doubt apprized of his arrival. Every thing was ready for their reception, if they meditated an attack, or to pursue in the morning, if they did not. At the dawn of day, the alarm- guns of our sentinels, succeeded by shrieks and savage yells, announced their presence. They commenced a furious assault on the left flank, com manded by Colonel Higgins, which was met with great tirmness. General Coffee, and Colonels Car roll and Sitler, instantly repaired to the point of attack, and, by example and exhortation, encouraged the men to a performance of their duty. The ac- tion raged for half an hour ; the brunt of which being against the left wing, it had become consid- erably weakened. It being now sufficiently light to ascertain the position of the enemy, and Cap- tain Ferril's company having reenforced the left wing, the \\hole charged, under General Coffoe» 100 LfYB or GBf^TERAIi JACftfOll and a route immediately ensued. The friendlj Indians joining in the pursuit, they were chased about two miles, with considerable loss. We had five killed, and twenty wounded. Until it became light enough to discern objects, our troops derived considerable advantage from their camp fires ; these laving been placed at some distance without the encampment, afforded a decided superiority in a night attack, by enabling those within to fire witL great accuracy on an approaching enemy, whilst tiiey themselves remained invisible. The pursuit bemg over, Jackson detached Cof- fee, with the Indians, and four hundred men, to destroy the enemy's encampment, unless he should find it too strongly fortified ; in which event, he was to give information immediately, and wait the arrival of the artille/y. Coffee, having recon- noitred this position, and found it too strong to be assailed with the force he commanded, returned to camp. He had not returned more than half an hour, when a severe fire was made upon the pickets, posted on the right, accompanied with prodigious yelling. General Coffee proceeded to turn the left flank of the assailants. This detachment being taken from different corps, he placed himself at their head, and moved briskly forward. Those in the rear, availing themselves of this circumstance, continued to drop off, one by one, without his knowledge, until the whole number left with him did not exceed fifty. It was fortunate that the force of the enemy he had first to attack was not greater. He found them occupying a ridge of open pine timber, covered with low underwood, which afforded them many opportunities for con- •mlment. To deprive them of this advantage, UPB OF GENERAL JACK83N. 101 Coffee ordered his men to dismount and charge them. This order was promptly obeyed, and some loss sustained in its execution ; the general himself was wounded through the body, and his aid, Major Lonelson, killed by a ball through the head ; — three of his men also fell. The enemy, driven back by the charge, took refuge on the margin of a creek, covered with reeds, where they lay concealed. The saveges, having intended the attack on the right as a feint, now, with their main force, which had been concealed, made a violent onset on our left line, which they hoped to find in disorder. General Jackson, however, who had apprehended their design, was prepared to meet it: this line had been ordered to remain -firm in its position and, when the first gun was heard in that quarter, he repaired thither in person, and strengthened i'. by additional forces. The first advance of the enemy was sustained with firmness, and opposed with great gallantry. The battle was now main- tained on the part of the assailants, by quick aiu. irregular firing, from behind logs, trees, shrubbery and whatever could aflTord concealment : beliinJ these, prostrating themselves after firing, and re- loading, they would rise and again discharge their guns. After sustaining their fire in this way for some time, a charge, to dislodge them from their position, was ordered : and the whole line under Colonel Carroll, by a most brilliant and steady movement, threw them into confusion, and they fled precipitately away. In the mean time, General Coffee had been en deavouring to drive the savages on the right fironi the fastnesses into which they had retired : but, find ing that this could not be done without haauird and tot Lira OF •IHERAL JACKBOlf. lo88, he began to retire towards the place where he had first dismounted. This expedient, desired for stratagem, produced the desired effect. The enemy, inspirited by the movement, presuming it a retreat, forsook their hiding-places, and rapidly advanced upon him. That officer immediately availed himself of the opportunity thus afforded of contending with them again on equal terms ; and a severe conflict commenced, and continued about an hour, in which the loss on both sides was nearly equal. At this critical juncture, when seve- ral of the detachments had been killed, many wounded, and the whole greatly exhausted with fatigue, the dispersion of the enemy being effect- ed on the left, a reenforcement was despatched by General Jackson, which, making its appearance on the enemy's left flank, put an end to the contest General Coffee, although severely wounded, still continued the fight, and, availing himself of the ar- rival of tliis additional 'strength, instantly ordered a charge; when the enemy, foreseeing their doom fled in consternation, and were pursued with dread- ful slaughter. It is believed that at this place none escaped. Thus drew to a close a day of almost continual fighting.* Having buried the dead, and dressed the wound- ed, preparations were made to guard against an at- * The Lidians had designed their plan of operations well, though the execution did not succeed. It was intended to bring on ihe attack at three different points, at the same time j but a party of the Chealegrans. one of the tribes which compose the Crock confederacy, who nad been ordered to assail the right ex- tremity of our front line, instead of doing so, thought it more pru- dent to proceed tc their villages, happy to have passed, undis- covered, the point they had been ordered to attack. Brt for this, the contest might have terminated less advantageously, perhap* diiastrously. uri or oBifEftAi* JACKIOH. lot tack by night, by erecting a breast-work of timber around the encampment; a measure the more necessary, as the spirits of our troops, most of wliom had never before been in collision with an enemy, were observed visibly to flag, towards the evening. Indeed, during the night, it was with the utmost difficidty the sentinels could be main- tained at their posts, who, expecting every minute the appearance of the enemy, would, at the least noise, fire and run in. The enemy, however, whose spies were aroimd our encampment all night, did not think proper to attack us in this position, and the morning broke without disturbance. The next day, General Jackson began to think of returning to the Ten Islands. Many reasons concurred to render such a measure proper. Jackson ordered litters to be formed for the transportation of the sick and wounded, and other necessary preparations to be made for a return marcli. Every thing being ready, it was com- menced at ten o'clock the next morning, and con- tinued without interruption until nearly night, when the army was encamped a quarter of a mile on the south side of Enotichopco Creek, in the di- rection to the ford. As it was evident the enemy had been in pursuit during the day, a breast-work was thrown up, with the utmost expedition, and arrangements made to repel their attempts, should they meditate an at- tack, in the course of the night, or on the succeed- ing morning. Prom a knowledge that they had been hanging on his rear, during the march of the preceding day, the general was led to conjecture that an ambuscade had been prepared, and that an attack would be made on him whilst crossing the 9* 104 UPK OF OBNIRAL JACKSON ereek in hia front. Near the croBsing place WM ii deep ravine, formed by the projection of two nills, overgrown with thick shrubbery and brown sedge, which afforded every convenience for con- i:ealmcnt. Along this route, the army, in going out, had passed ; Jackson determined to take a different route ; he secretly despatohed, early next morning, a few pioneers, to designate another crossing place below. A suitable one was discovered, about six hundred yards from the old one ; and thither the ^reneral now led his army; having, previously to commencing the march, formed his columns, and the front and rear guards, that he might be in an attitude for defence. A beautiful slope of open woodland led down tc tlie newly discovered ford, where, except im- mediately on the margin of the creek, which was covered with a few reeds, there was nothing to ob- struct the view. The .front guards, and part of the columns, had passed ; the wounded were also over, and the artillery just entering the creek, when an alarm-gun was heard in the rear. The Indians, unexpectedly finding the route was chang- ed, quitted the defile, where they had expected to commence the assault, and advanced upon a com- pany, under the command of Captain Russell, which marched in the rear. Though assailed by supe- rior numbers, it returned the fire, and gradually retired, until it reached the rear guard, who, ac- cording to express instructions given, were, in the event of an attack, to face about, and act as the advance ; whilst the right and lefl columns should ^e turned on their pivats, so as completely to loop the enemy, and render his destruction sure. The nghi coliunn of the rear guard was commanded by Uri OP aiNKRAL JACKSUN. lOA Coloael Porkini, the left by Lieutenant-Colonei Stun^, and the centre column by Colonel Carroll Jackson waa just passing the stream when the firing and yelling commenced. Having instructed hie aid-de-camp to form a line for the protection of the wounded, who were but a short distance in ad vance, and afterwards to turn the left column, he himself proceeded to the ri^fht, for a similar pur- pose. What was his astonishment, when, restmg in the hope of certain victory, he beheld the right and left columns of the rear guard, after a feeble resistance, precipitately give way, bringing with them confusion and dismay, and entirely obstruct- nig the passage, over which the principal strength of the army was to be re-crossed ! This shameful flight was well nigh being attended with the most fatal consequences ; which were alone averted by the deternuned bravery of a few. Nearly the whole of the centre column had followed the ex ample of the other two, and precipitated themselves into the creeii ; not more than twenty remained to oppose the violence of the first assault. The ar- tillery company, commanded by Lieutenant Arm- strong, composed of young men of the first famihes, who had volunteered their services at the com- mencement of the campaign, formed with their muskets before the piece of ordnance they had, and hastily dragged it from the creek to an eminence, from which they could play to advantage. Here an obstinate conflict ensued; the enemy endeav- ouring to charge and take it, whilst this company formed with their muskets, and resolutely defended rhese young men, the few who remained with uj..e\ Carroll, and the gallant Captain Q,ua.-les' who fell at their head, with Russell's spies, not ex 106 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. c eeding in the whole one hundred, maintained, witk the utmoet finnness, a contest, for many minitet against a force five timej greater than their own and checked the advance of the foe. The brave Lieutenant Armstrong fell at the side of his piece bv a wound in the groin, and exclaimed, as ht lay, " Some of you must perish ; but don't lose the gun." By his side fell, mortally wounded, his as- sociate and friend, Bird Evans, and the gallant Captain Hamilton ; who, having been abandoned by his men, at Port Strother, with his two brothers and his aged father, had attached himself to the artillery company, as a private, and, in that capacity, showed how well be deserved to command by the fidelity with which he obeyed. Perilous as the hour was, this little heroic band evinced themselves cool and collected as Ihey were brave in battle. In the confusion of the moment, the rammer and pricker of the cannon could npt be disengaged firom the carnage ; in this situation, and at such a time, the mvention of most young soldiers might have failed . but, nothing fearing. Craven Jackson and Constan tine Perking drove home the cartridges with 8 musket, and with the ramrod prepared them for the match. In the mean time, while the conflict was thus unequally sustained, General Jackson and his stafi* had been enabled, by great exertions, to restore something like order, from confrision. The columns were again formed, and put in motion ; and small detachments had been sent across the creek to support the little band that there main tained their ground. The enemy, perceiving a itrong force advancing, and being warmly assailed on their lefl flank by Captain Gordon, at the head of his company of spies, were stricken w'jth a. arm, UWm OP GBNBRAL JACK.80N. 107 nod fled away, leaving behind thieir blankets, and whatever was likely to retard their flight. I)e- cachmenta were ordered on the pursuit, who, in a chase of two miles, destroyed many, and wholly dispersed them. in despite of the active exertions made by Gene- ••al Jackson to restore order, tiiey were, for some dme, unavailing. In addition to the assistance re- seived from his stafl:', he derived much from the aid )f General Coffee. That officer, in consequence of the wound which he had received at Emuckfaw, lad, the day before, been carried in a litter. Prom ,he apprehensions indulged, that an attack would probably be made upon them that morning, he had proceeded from the encampment on horseback, and lided, during the action, with his usual deliberate firmness. Indeed, all the officers of his brigade rendered manifest, now, the value of experience. This was not a moment for rules of fancied eti- luette. The very men, who, a little time before, wovHd have disdained advice, and spurned an ordei 'rora any but their own commanders, did not scru- ole, amidst the peril that surrounded them, to be 'egulated by those who seemed to be so much bet- ter qualified for extricating them from their present danger. The hospital surgeon, Dr. Shelby, ap- peared in the fight, and rendered important military services. The adjutant-general, S.Hler, hastened •tcross the creek in the early part of the action, -,o the artillery company, for which he felt all the esprit de corps, having been once attached to it ; And there remained, supporting them in their duties, and participating in their dangers. Captain Gor- don, too, contributed greatly to dispel the peril of tht momeiit, by his active sally on the left flank d 108 LIFE OK UL.NEKAl^ JACR805. the sdvages. Of the general himself, it is ecaicely necessary to remark, that, but for him, every tiling must have gone to ruin. On him all hopes were rested. In that moment of confusion, he vas the rallying point, even for the spirits of the brave Firm and energetic, and, at the same time, perfect- ly self-possessed, his example and authority alike contributed to arrest the flying, and give confidence to those who maintained their ground. Cov/arJ^ forgot their panic, and fronted danger, when they heard his voice and beheld his manner ; and the brave would have formed round his body a ram- oart with their own. In the midst of showers of sails, of which he seemed unmindful, he was seen ^•erforming the duties of the subordinate officers, "allying the alarmed, halting them in their flight, forming his columns, and inspiriting them by his example. An array suddenly dismayed, and thrown into confusion, was thuS happily rescued from a de- struction which lately appeared inevitable. Our total loss, in the several engagements, on the 22d and this day, was only twenty killed, and seventy- five woonded, some of whom, however, uflerwarda died. The loss of the enemy cannot be accurately stated. The bodies of one hundred and eighty- nine of their warriors were found ; this, however, may be considered as greatly below the real num- ber ; nor can their wounded be even conjectured. The greatest slaughter was in the pursuit. Scat- tered through the heights and hollows, many of the wounded escaped, and many of the killed were not ascertained. It is certain, however, as was after- wards disclosed by prisoners, that considerably more than two hundred of those who, on this oc- ..a.sion. vent out to battle, never returned ; but liiri OF eSNEBAt JACKSON. lOf those who did return, unwilling it should be known that so many were killed, feeling it might dispirit the nation, endeavoured to have it believed, and so ■^presented it, that they had proceeded on some distant expedition, and wcuJd be fo* s<^me time ab- sent. The army encamped, o'n the night of the 26th within three miles of Fort Strother. Thus termi .lated an expedition replete with peril, but attended tvith effects highly beneficial. Fort Armstrong was •elieved ; General Floyd enabled to gain a victory it Autossee, where he would most probably have net defeat ; a considerable portion of the enemy's Dest forces had been destroyed ; and an end piii o the hopes they had founded on previous delays Discontent had been kept from the ranks ; tlu iroops had been beneficially employed ; and inac !ivity, the bane of every array, had l«en avoided. lid Uri OP OIRKEAI. JA< CHAPTER V. ?7k voamteera art diKharged.—Nno troop$ arrtvt — Execu (ion of a soldier, and the^ect productd. — Want of trtpplies.-^ Mutiny icUh the East Tennessee brigauie. — General Jacksan Tjuzrches against tlie Indians, — Battle o7 Tohopeia. — Returns (c Fort Wmiams. — Exvedition to Hbitnleicalee ; its failure, and the causes. — Forms a /unction with the Cfeorgia troops, and pro ceedstotlie Hickory Ground. — Indians sue for peace, — Weather- ford surrenders himself. — Arrival of General Pinckney at liead-quarters. — Tennessee troops are ordered to be marched home, and discliarged from service. The troops having reached the post whence 'hey had set out, the general determined to dis- charge them. The information from Tennessee 'V as, that there would soon be in the field a consid- erable force, enlisted for a period sufficient to e.ffecc a termination of the Indian war. He was desiious of having every thing in readiness by the time of their arrival, that they might be carried without delay into active service. Detaining his late vol- unteers, therefore, a short time, to complete boats for the transportation of his camp equipage and provisions down the Coosa, he directed them to be marched home, and there to be honourably dis- missed. The further service of his artillery com- pany was also dispensed with. His parting inter- view with them was interesting and affecting. A letter from Jackson to Governor Blount, added to his own sense of the importance of the crisis, had induced him to issue an order on the 3d, direct- ing *M,enty-fiy8 hundred of the militia of the second division to be detached, organized, and equipped, 10 confonnitj to an act of congresi of the 6th of tm OP GENERAL JACKSON. Ill April, 1812. These were to perform a tour of three months, to be computed from the tune of rendezvous, appointed to be on the 28th mstant He had also reqmred General Cocke to bring into the field, under the requisition of the secretary of war, the quota he had been instructed to raise. This officer, who had hitherto created so many obstacles, still appeared to de&ire nothing moie ardently than a failure of the campaign. Although many difficulties had been feigned in the execution of the order directed to hun, he was enabled to muster into service, from his division, about two thousand men. These, however, as well as those called out from West Tennessee were but indif ferently armed. The thirty-ninth regiment, under Colonel Wil- liams, had also received orders to proceed to Jack- son's head-quarters, and act under his command in the prosecution of the war. It arrived on the 6th or 6th of the month, about six hundred strong Most of the men were badly armed; this evil, however, was shortly afterwards remedied. The quarter-masters and contractors were already actively engaged, and endeavouring to procure provi- sions and the transportations for the army. The fail- ures, in regard to former enterprises, are to be ascrib- ed to these two departments ; to the constant endeav our of the contractors to procure provisions at a re duced price, in order to enhance their profits ; and t* fears entertained, lest, if they should lay in any larg* supply, It might spoil or waste on theii hands. The inconveniences in the quarter-master's department, were, indeed, less chargeable to the incumbenta than to the causes which they couid not control ; tor, to the extreme ruggedness of the way over 10 lit LIFB OF USNCRAL >AO«M>£f which wagons had to pass, wu to be added the real difficulty of obtaining a si^cient number oq the frontiers. About the middle of the month, Jackson ordered the troops to advance, and form a union at head- quarters, then at Port Strother. Greatly to his surprise, he soon after learned that the contractor from East Tennessee had again failed to comply with his engagement, notwithstanding the ample means which he possessed, and the full time allowed him for that purpose. The troops, however, agree- ably to the order received, proceeded on their march. Those from the second division, under Brigadier-General Johnston, arrived on the 14th; which, added to the force under General Doherty, from East Tennessee, constituted about five thou- sand effectives. Composed, as this army was, o. troops entirely raw, it \yas not to be expected tha» any thing short of the greatest firnmess in its officers could restrain that course of conduct and disorder, which had hitherto so unhappily prevailed. The execution of a private, (John Woods,) who had been sentenced by a court-martial, on a charge of mutiny, produced, at this time, great excitement, and the most salutary effects. That mutinous spirit, which had so frequently broken into the camp, and for a while suspended all active opera tions, remained to be cnecked. A fit occasion was now at hand to evince, that although militia, wheu at their fire-sides at home, might boast an exemp- tion firom control, yet in the field those high no- tions were to be abandoned, and subordination ob served. Painful as it was to the feelings of the grencral, he viewed it as a sacrifice essential to the preservation of jiood order, and left the sentence of UWm OF OBNBRAL JAC&80N. 113 the court to be inflicted. The execution waa pro- ductive of the happiest effects ; order waa pro- duced, and that opinion which had so long prevailed, that 8 militia-man was privileged, and for no offence .'iable to suffer death, was, from that moment^ abandoned, and a stricter obedience than had been practised afterwards characterized the army. Nothing was wanting now to put the troops in motion, and actively to prosecute tlie war, but the arrival of necessary supplies. Remonstrance, en- treaty, and threats, had long since been used and exhausted. Every mean had been resorted to, to impress on tlie minds of the contractors the ne- cessity ol urging forward in faithful discharge of their duty ; but the same indifference and negleci were still persisted in. To ward off the effects of such great evils — evils which he foresaw must again eventuate in discontent and revolt — Jack son resolved to pursue a different course, and no longer depend on persons who had so frequently disappointed him, and whose only object was the acquirement of wealth. He accordingly despatched messengers to the nearest settlements, with direc- tions to purchase provisions, at whatever price they could be procured. This course, to these incum- bents on the nation, afforded an argument infinitely stronger than any to which he had before resorted Unexpectedly assailed in a way they had not pre- viously thought of, by being held and made liable for the amount of the purchases, which by their neglect was rendered necessary, they exerted themselves in discharge of a duty they had hith- erto too shamefully neglected. Every expedient had been practised to urge them to a compliance with the obligations they were under to their govern &a4 lam OP «unuui. jackmm. OMnt ; until the present, none had proved efibctual. In one of his letters, about this time, the genera] remarks, — " I have no doubt but a combination has been formed to defeat the objects of the campaign , but the contractor ought to have recollected, that he had disappointed and starved my army once ; and now, in return, it shall be amply provided for at his expense. At this point he was to have de- livered the rations — and, whatever they may cost, at this place he will be required to pay : any price that will ensure their delivery, I have directed to be given." The supplying an army by contractors, he had often objected to as highly exceptionable and dangerous. His monitor, on this subject, wap his own experience. Disappointment, mutiny, and abandonment by his troops, when in the full career of success, and an unnecessarily protracted cam- paign, were among tbp evils already experienced, and which he desired, if possible, might be in future avoided. The difficulties, the perplexities, he had met, and the constant dissatisfaction which had rendered his troops inefficient, were wholly to be attributed to those, who, in disregard of the public good, had looked alone to their own immediate benefit It was high time that the feelings and interest of such men should be disregarded, and a sense of duty enforced, by that sort of appeal which sordid minds best can understand->-an ap- peal to profit and the purse. Under these and other circumstances, which seemed to involve the most serious consequences, tne general had but little time for either repose or quietness. Every thhig was moving in opposition to his wishes. The East Tennessee brigade, under the command of Doherty having been instnicted UrS OP GENERAL JACKb^N 116 tt halt, until adequate supplies should be receiyed at head-quarters, had already manifested many symptoms of revolt, and was with difficulty re- strained from abandoning the field, and returning immediately home. Added to their own discon- tents, pains had been taken by a personage high in authority to scatter dissension, and to persuace them that they had been improperly called out, and without sufficient authority ; that the draft was illegal, and that they were under no necessity of remaining. On the morning that General Doherty was about to proceed to head-quarters, he was astonished to hear the drums beating up for volun teers to abandon his camp and return home. Not- withstanding all his efforts to prevent this injurious measure, one hundred and eighty deserted. His surprise was still greater, on receiving information Di which he confided, that instructions by Major- General Cocke had been given, that, in the event any number of the troops should be marched back he would take upon himself to discharge them from all responsibility on their return to Knoxville The general had previously appeared at the camp of Doherty, and, by different means, attempted to excite mutiny and disafiection among the troops. As a reason for being unwilling to assume the com- mand, and go with them to the field, he stated, that they would be placed in a situation which he dis- liked to think of, and one which his feelings would not enable him to witness ; tliat they were about to be placed under the command of General Jackson, who would impose on them the severest trials, and where they would have to encounter every imagina- ble privation and aufieriiig. He represented, that it head-quarters there was not a sufficiency of pro- 10 « 116 LIPK or OENERAL JACKSOIf. visiciis on hand to last five clays ; nor was there a probability that there would happen any change of circumstances for the better ; that, should they once be placed in the power of Jackson, such was his nature and disposition, that, with the regular force under his command, he would compel them to serve whatever length of time he pleased. Doherty, who was a brigadier in the first division, was at a loss to know how he should proceed with his own major- general, who, having thus obtruded himself into his camp, was endeavouring to excite mutiny and re volt : he accordingly despatched an express to head-quarters to give information to General Jack- son of what was passing in Iiis camp. The mes- senger arrived, and, in return, received an order to Doherty, commanding him, peremptorily, to seize, and send under guard to Fort Strother, every officer, without regard to his rank, who should be found, in any manner, attempting to incite his army to mutiny. General Cocke, apprehending what* was going on, or obtaining intelligence, retired be- fore the order arrived, and thus escaped the pun- 'shment due to so aggravated an offence. About this time, Colonel Dyer was despatched .vith six hundred men, with orders to proceed to the lead of the Black Warrior, and ascertain if anj force of the mdians was irabodied in that quarter; and disperse them. This detachment, having pro seeded eight days through the heights along tht Cahawba, had fallen in with a trail the enemy bar passed, stretching eastwardly, and followed it fo. some distance. Apprehending that the army might t)e on tlie eve of departing from Fort Strother, and being unable to obtain any certain information of Lira OP OBNERAL JACK.SON. 117 the savages, he desisted fi>om the pnrsait, and returned to camp. That there might be no troops in the field in a situation not to be serviceable, and as supplies were an important consideration, orders were given the brigadiers to dismiss from the ranks every invalid, and all who were not well armed. General Jackson, at length, by constant and un- remitted exertions, obtained such supplies as he believed would be necessary to enable him to proceed. On the 14th he commenced his march, and, crossing the river, arrived on the 21st at the mouth of Cedar Creek, which had been previously selected for the establishment of a fort.* At this place it became necessary to delay a day or two, and await the coming of the provision boats, which were descending the Coosa. On the 22d of January, the day ot the battle of Emuckfaw, General Coifee, as has been already stated, had been detached to destroy the Indian encampment on the Tallapoosa: having recon- noitred their position, and believing them toe strongly posted to be advantageously assailed by the force which he then commanded, he had re- tired without making the attempt. Tlie position they had chosen was at a bend of the Tallapoosa, called by the Indians Tohopeka, which, interpreted into our language, means Horse-Shoe, not far from New Youcka, and near the Oakfusky villages. Fortified by nature and the skill of the savages, no other conjecture was entertained, than that at this place was intended a defence of the most deter- mined kind. Learning that the Indians were btilJ imbodled here, Jackson resolved to make a descent « Fort VViliuuM. 118 LIFE or eENERAL JACKSOIT. on it, and destroy ♦he confederacy; thence, leturn ing to Fort Williams for provisions, to urge forward to the Hickory Ground, where he hoped be should oe able finally to terminate the war. On the 24th, leaving a sufficient force under Brigadier-General Johnston for the protection of ihe post, with eight days' provisions, he left Fort Williams for the Tallapoosa, by the way of Emuck- faw. The whole force now with him amounted to less than three thousand effective men ; being considerably reduced by the necessity of leaving behind him detachments for garrisons at the differ- ent forts. At ten o'clock on the morning of the 27th, after a march of fifty-two miles, he reached the village Tohopeka. The enemy, having gained intelligence of his approach, Jiad collected in con- siderable numbers, with a view to give him battle. The warriors from the adjacent towns, Oakfnsky, Hillabee, Eufalee, and Wew Youcka, amounting to a thousand or twelve hundred, were here collected, and waiting his approach. They could have select- ed no place better calculated for defence ; for, in- dependent of the advantages bestowed on it by nature, their own exertions had greatly contributed to its strength. Surrounded almost entirely by the river, it was accessible only by a narrow neck of land, of three hundred and fifty yards width, which they had taken much pains to secure, by placing large timbers and trunks of trees horizontally on each other, leaving but a single place of entrance From a double row of port-holes formed in it, they were enabled to give complete direction to their ^re, whilst they lay in perfect security behind. General Coffee, at the head of the mounted in- {ontry and fiiendly Indians, had beeu despatcb'sd UtA Of OSNiiiiAL iACK.»€i«. 119 •arljr in the morning from camp, with orderi to gain the southern bank of the river, encircle the bend, and make some feint, or mauceuvring, to klivert the enemy from the point where the attack was intended principally to be waged. He was particularly instructed so to arrange the force under ^is command, that the savages might not escape by passing to the opposite side in their canoes, with ivhich, it was represented, the whole shore was iined. Jackson, with the rest of the army, pro- Deeded to take a position in front of the breast- work. Having planted his cannon on an eminence, about two hundred yards from the front of the enemy's line, vdth a view to break down hia defence, a brisk fire commenced. The musketry and rifles, which occupied a nearer position, were used as the Indians occasionally showed themselvea from behind their works. The artillery was well served by Major Bradford, and the fire kept up foi some minutes without making any impression ; time, however, was gained for complete readiness. The signals having now announced that General Cofieo had reached in safety his point of destination, on the opposite side of the river, had formed his line, and was ready to act, the order was given to charge. " Never were troops more eager to be led on than were both regulars and militia. They had been waiting wiui impatience for the order, and hailed it with acclamations. The spirit that animated them was a sure augury of the success chat was to follow." Between them there was no difference ; both advanced with the intrepidity and fimmess of veteran soldiers. The thirty-ninth regiment, led on by their commandei. Colonel Wil- liami, uul the brave but ill-fated Major Moutjj^omery 120 LIFE OP UBNERAL iACRSON. tnd the militia under the command of Colonft. Bunch, moved forward amidst a destructive fire that continually poured upon them, and were pres- ently at the rampart. Here an obstinate and ilestructive conflict ensued, each contending fo; the port-holes, on different sides. Many of the enemy's balls were welded between the muskets and bayonets of our soldiers. At this moment, Major Montgomery, leaping on the wall, called to his men to mount and follow him ; he had scarcely spoken, when, shot through the head, he fell lifeless to the ground. Our troops eagerly followed the example he had set, and scaled their ramparts. Finding it no longer tenable, the savages aban- doned their position, and, retiring from their works, concealed themselves amidst the brush and timber that lay thickly scattered over the peninflula, whence they kept up a galling fire, until they were again forced back. Driven to despair, not knowing whither to flee, and resolving not to surrender, they saw no other alternative, than an effort to effect their escape, by passing in their canoes to the opposite bank of the river ; from this they were, however, prevented, by perceiving that a part of the army already lined the opposite shore. Under these circumstances, the remaining warriors, who yet survived the severity of the -onflict, betaking theraseivcs to flight, leapeo uown the banks, and concealed themselves along the cliffs and steeps, which were covered by the trees. Many had betaken themaelves to the west angle of their line of de- fence, where, under protection of heaps of brush, a spirited fire was kept up upon those of our troops who had gained their line, and those who were •irtJiciiig on the outer side. From these secreted LIFB OF QENERAL JACKSON. 121 places they would fire and disappear. General Jackson, perceiving that further resistance must involve them in utter destruction, and entertaining a desire that they should yield a contest which now evidently was a hopeless one, ordered the interpre- ter to advance with a flag, under cover of aorae trees which stood in front, until he should reach a position sufficiently near to be heard. He did so, and, having arrived within forty yards of the spot where the Indians were concealed, in an audible voice, and in their own language, addressed them ; told them of the folly of further resistance, and that he was commanded by General Jackson to say, that, if disposed to surrender, they should be re- ceived and treated as prisoners. They waited patiently until he had finished, and heard what he had to say ; — a pause ensued ; and, at the moment when he was expecting to receive an answer, and to learn that a surrender would be at once made, a fire was opened upon the flag, and the interpreter severely wounded in the breast. Finding they would not yield, orders were given to dislodge them. To accomplish this, the artillery was Srst turned against them ; but, being from its size incapable of producing any effect, a charge was made, in which several valuable lives were lost ; il however suc- ceeded, and the enemy were dislodged from their covert place on the right angle of their line of defence. Lighted torches were now thrown down the Sleeps, which, communicating with the brush and trees, and setting them on fire, drove them from theit hiding-places. Still did they refuse to surrender, and still maintained the conflict Thus the carnage continued imtil night separated the combatants, when the few misguided savages, who 1st UFI OP OKNEIIAL JACKSOM. had avoided the havoc and slaughter of the day, were enabled, through the darkness of the nigl^ to make their escape. Whilst the attack was thus waged in front of the line, the friendly Indians in General Coffee's detachment, under the command of Colonel Mor- gan, with Captain Russell's company of spies, were effecting much ; and, no doubt, to the course pur- sued by them, on the opposite side, was greatly owing the facility with which the breast-work was scaled, and its possession obtained. The village stood on the margin of the river, and on that part of the peninsula most remote from the fortification. At the hne were all their warriors collected. Seve ral of the Cherokees and Russell's spies having swum across, unobserved, and procured their ca noes, a considerable number passed over, entered the town, and fired it No sooner was this dis- covered, than their attention was divided, and drawn to the protection of a point where they had not ap prehended an attack. Thus assailed from an un- expected quarter — a force in their rear, and another^ still stronger, advancing on their front— the invading army was afforded a much easier and less hazardous opportunity of succeeding in the assault and secur- ing the victory. This battle gave a death-blow to their hopes ; nor did they venture, afterwards, to make a stand. From their fastness in the woods they had tried their strength, agreeably to their accustomed mode of warfare ; in ambuscade, had brought on the at- tack ; and, in all, failure and disaster had been me*. None ot the advantages incident on surprise, and for which the red men of our forests have been always so characterized, had they been able to ob- kOn of WIIJIBAL lACKSON. lit tain. The continual defeats they had received were, doubtless, the reason of their having so strongly fortified this place, where they had deter- mined to perish or to be victorious. Few escaped the carnage. Of the killed, many by their friends were thrown into the river, whilst the battle raged ; many, in endeavouring to pass it, were sunk by the steady fire of CoflTee's brigade ; and five hun- dred and fifty-seven were left dead on the ground. Among the number of the slain were three ol Jieir prophets. Decorated in a most fantastic man- ner — the plumage of various birds about their heads and shoulders — with savage grimaces, and horrid contortions of the body, they danced and howled their cantations to the sun. Their dependants al- ready believed a communion with Heaven sure^ which, moved by entreaty, and their offered homage; would aid them in the conflict, and give a triumph to their arms. Fear had no influence ; and when they beheld our army approaching, and already scaling their line of defence, even then, far from being dispirited, hope survived, and victory >vas still anticipated. Monohoe, one of the most considerable of their inspired ones, and who had cheered and kept alive the broken spirit of the na- tion by his pretended divinations, fell, mortally wounded, by a cannon shot in the mouth, while ear- nestly engaged in his incantations. Three hundred prisoners were taken, most of whom were women and children. That so few warriors should have sought and obtained safety, by appealing to the clemency of the victors, to persons acquainted with the mode of Indian warfare, wUl not appear a matter of surprise. It seldom happens that ihey extend or solicit quarter: faithless them- If 4 UFB OP GINERAL JACKfON. •elves, they place no reliance on the faith of others, and, when overcome in battle, seek no other pro- tection than retreat affords. Anotlier cauae for it may be found in a reason already given ; the attack, by a detachment of General Cocke's division, an the Hillabee clans, who were assailed and put to the 8word, at a moment when, having asked peace at discretion, they were expecting it to be given. This misfortune had alone been occasioned by a wont of concert in the divisions of our army ; but It was past, and witli it was gone, on the part of the savages, all confidence in our integrity and humani- ty ; and they looked and trusted for safety now to nothing but their own bravery. In this contest they maintained resistance, fighting and firing from their covert places, long after the hope eiiher of success or escape was at an end, and after the pro- posal had been submitted to spare the further use- less waste of blood. . A few, who had lain quiet, and concealed under the cliff's, survived the severity of the conflict, and effected their retreat under cover of the night. Our loss was small, when compared with that of tne enemy ; the whole estimate, including the friendly and Cherokee Indians, was but fifty-five killed, and one hundred and forty-six wounded. Of the former was Major Montgomery, a brave and en- terprising young officer, of the thirty-ninth regi- ment, and Lieutenants Moulton and Somerville, who fell early in the action. The object of the present visit being answered the general concluded to return to Fort Williams. Having sunk hie dead in the river, to prevent theii being scalped by the savages, and made the neces- sary arrangements for carrying off his wounded, he LIPK OF (JENERAL JACKSON. 125 commonced his return march for the fort, and in a few days reached it in safety.* Understanding that the enemy was imbodied, in considerable numbers, at Hoithlewalee, a town situ- ated not far from the Hickory Ground, he was anx- ious to re-commence his operations as early as possible, that the advantages he had gained, and the impression he had made, might not be lost. The forces under his command, from sickness, the loss which had been sustained in the late battle, and numerous discharges given, had been too much re- duced in strength, to permit him to act as efficiently as the importance of the crisis required. It was desirable, therefore, to effect a junction with the southern army as speedily as possible, that, from an increase and concentration of his numbers, greater efficiency might be had. The North Carolina troops, under the command of General Graham, an experienced officer of the revolutionary war. and those of Georgia, under Colonel Milton, were as pertained to be somewhere south of the Tallapoosa, and could be at no great distance. To unite with them was an event greatly desired. He had re ceived from General PinckneT strong assurances .hat all complaints would be at an end, as soon as his and the southern division could unite. No time was to be lost in effecting a purpose so essential. Gene- ral Jackson accordingly determined to leave his sick and wounded, and the fort, to the care and com- mand of Brigadier Johnston, and to set out again * Sinking them in the river, in preference to burying them, ftfas adoptea from the consideration, that these of our troops, who lad previously fallen, had been raised, stripped, and scalped, Vlany of the Indians at Tohopeka were found in the cloinM c/ hose who bad been killed and oi "ied at Emuckfa'v. 196 LIPB OP GENERAL JACKSON for the Tallapoosa. On the 7th, with all his dispo- sable force, he commenced his march, with the double view of effecting a union with the army be- low, and of attacking on his route the enemy's force which were collected at Hoithlewalee. His greatest difficulty was in conveying to Colonel Mil- ton intelligence of his intended operations. The friendly Indians, who, from their knowledge of the country, had been always selected as expresses. were with difficulty to be prevailed on now for any such undertaking. Believing their nation to be imbodied in larger numbers than any which had been yet encountered, and that, confiding in their strength, they would be better enabled to go forth, searching and spying through the surrounding country, they at once concluded that any enterprise of this kind would be attended with too great peril and danger, and the (difficulty of eluding observa- tion too much increased, for thera to adventure. This circumstance prevented the arrangement of such measures as were best calculated to bring tho different divisions to act in general concert. The necessity, however, of such co-operation, was too important, at this moment, not to be effected, if it were possible. Having at length succeeded in procuring confi- dential messengers, Jackson addressed Colonel Mil- ton, and advised him of liis intended movement. To guard against any acciuent or failure that might happen, different expresses were despatched, by different routes. He informed him, that, with eight days' provisions, and a force of about two thousand men, he should, on the 7th, take up the line of march, and proceed directly for Hoithlewalee ; which he ex- pected certainly to reach and attack on the 11th UFB OF flENERAL JACKSON 197 The point of destination, owing to the rain, he wras not able to reach until the 13th. This delay, unavoidable, gave the Indians an opportunity of fleeing from the threatened danger. On arriving at an inconsiderable stream which skirted the town, it was so swollen as to be rendered impassable The savages, gaining intelligence of an appicach that waa thus unavoidably retarded, were enabled to effect an escape by passing the river in theii canoes, and gaining the opposite shore. Had Col- onel MUton fortunately made a different disposition of the troops under his command, and, by guarding the southern bank of the river, co-operated with the Tennessee division, their escape would have been prevented, and the whole force, collected, would either have been destroyed or made prison- ers. Although Jackson, in his letter of the 5th, 6ad given intelligence that he would reach the enemy on the 11th ; and, when prevented by high waters and rotten roads, had again notified him that he would certainly arrive and commence the attack by the morning of the 13th, and urged him to guard the south bank of the Tallapoosa, still was the request disregarded, and the savages per- mitted to escape. Learning they were abandoning their position, and seeking safety in flight, Jackson filed to the right, and, overtaking the rear of the fugitives, succeeded in making twenty-five prison- ers. At this time, nothing was heard of Colone^ Milton ; but on the same day, having marched about five miles from his encampment at Fort Decatur, and approached within four of Iloithlewalee, he, the next morning, gave notice of an intention to attack the village that day ; at this moment the in habitants and warriors had fl«d and the town was 11* 128 LIPE OF GENERAL JACKSON )ccupied and partly destroyed by a detachment rroin Jackson's anny, that had succeeded in paasing the creek. The Georgia army being so near at hand, was a -ource of some satisfaction, although the escape of the enemy had rendered their presence of less im- portance than it otherwise would have been. The stock of provisions, with which the march had beczi :;ommenced from Fort Williams, was now nearly exhausted. Assurances, however, having been st repeatedly given, that abundant supplies would bt had on uniting with the southern army, all uneasi ness upon the subject was at once dispelled. Col onel Milton was immediately applied to, the situa tion of the array disclosed, and such aid as he coulo extend solicited. He returned an answer to the general's demand, observing, he had sent provisions for the friendly Indians, and would, the next day, lend some for the remainder of the troops ; but felt himself under no obligation to furnish any. Jack- son, satisfied of its being in his power to relieve him, and that this apparent unwillingness did not, and could not, proceed from any scarcity in his camp, assumed a higher ground, and, instead of ask- ing assistance, now demanded it. He stated that his men were destitute of supplies, and that he had been apprized of it ; and concluded by ordering not requesting, him to send five thousand rations immediately, for present relief; and for himself and tlie forces under his command to join him at Hoith- lewalee by ten o'clock the next day. " This order," he remarked, "must be obeyed without hesitation." - -It waa obeyed. The next iay, a junction having been effected, the necessary steps were taken tc UFl OP GENBRit /ACKSON. IW biing down the provisions depoflited at Port Deca- tur, and, for the first tiroe since the commence- ment of the Creek war, -accnvemences for the want of supplies, and an apprehension of suffering, were removed. u v e Appearances seemed now to warrant the behet, that the war would not be of much longer continu- ance ; the principal chiefs of the Hickory Ground tribes were coming in, making professions of friend- ship, and giving assurances of their being no longer disposed to continue hostilities. The general had been met, on his late march, by a flag from these clans, giving information of their disposition to be at peace. In return they received this answer : — that those of the war party, who were desirous of putting an end to the contest, and of becoming friendfy, should evince their intention by retiring m the rear of the army, and settling themselves to the north of Fort Williams ; that no other proof than this, of their pacific dispositions, would be re- ceived. Fourteen chiefs of these tribes had arrived, to furnish still further evidence of their desire for peace. They assured the general that their old king, Pous-hatchee, was anxious to be permitted to visit him in person, and was then on his way, with his followers, to settle above Fort Williams, agree- ably to the information he had received by the flag which had lately returned to him. Detachments were scouring the country to the south, with orders to break up any coUecUon of the enemy that might be heard of in convement dis- tance. The main body was prepared to advance to the junction of the two nvers, where, until now, it hid been expected the Indiana would make m laA 180 Lire or «en£ral jackson and desperate stand * Every thing was in readi- ness to proceed on the march, when it was an nounced to the geneial, that Colonel Milton's brig- ade, which had lately united with him, was not in a situation to move. During the previous night some of his wagon horses having strayed off, per- sons had been sent in pursuit, and were expected shortly to return with them ; when, it was reported, he would be ready to take up the line of marcli. To Jackson, this was a reason for delaying the ope- rations of an army, which as yet he had never learned, and by which he had never been influenced. He had, indeed, been frequently made to halt, though from very different causes ; from murmurs, discontents and starvation in his camp. He replied to the colonel's want of preparation, by telling him, that, in the progress of his own difficulties, he had discovered a very excellent mode of expediting wagons, even without horses ; and that, if he would detail him twenty mtfn from his brigade, for every wagon deficient in horses, he would guaranty their safe arrival at their place of destination. Rather than subject his men to such drudgery, he preferred to dismount some of his dragoons, and thus avoided the necessity of halting the army until his lost teams should arrive. The army continued its march without gaining • The Hickory Ground, or that part of the Creek nation Ijnng m the forks, near where the Coosa and Tallapoosa unite, was called by the ludiajis Holy Ground, from a ti'adition and belief firevaihng among them, tnat it never had been pressed by the bot of a white man. Acting under the influence of their' pro- phets, and a religious fanaticism, it was supposed they would taakc greater exertic^os to defend this than any other prrtion o< uieir country LIFS OF GENERAL JACKSON. ISl intelligence of any imbodied forces of the enemy ; and, without the happening of any thing of im- portance, reached old Toulossee Fort, on the Coosn river, not far from the confluence, at which another was determined to be erected, to be called Fort Jackson, after the commanding general. Here the rivers approach within one hundred poles of each other, and, again diverging, unite six miles below. At this place, the chiefs of the different tribes were daily arriving, and offering to submit on any terms. They all concurred in their statements, that those of the hostile party, who were still opposed to ask- ing for peace, had fled from the nation, and sought refuge along the coast of Florida, and in Pensacola. General Jackson renewed the declaration, that .hey could find safety in no other way than by re- oairing to the section of the country pointed out lo them, where they might be quiet and free of any sort of molestation. To put their friendly professions, which he dis- trusted, at once to the test, he directed them to bring Weatherford to his camp, confined, that he might be dealt with as he deserved. He was one of the first chiefs of the nation, and had been a principal actor in the butchery at Fort Mimms. Justice well demanded retaliation against him. Learning from the chiefs what had been required of them by Jackson, he was prevailed upon, as per- haps the safer course, to proceed to his camp, and make a voluntary surrender of himself. Having reached it without being known, and obtained ad mission to the general's quarters, he fearlessly stood in his presence, and told him he was Weatherford, the chief who had commanded at Fort Mimms. and that, desiring peace for himself and for his peojkt 1S9 LIFB or eiNKRAL lACKSOH. he had come to aak it. Somewhat surprised that one who so richly merited punishment should so sternly demand the protection which had been extended to others, Jackson replied to him, that he was astonish- ed he should venture to appear in his presence ; that he waa not ignorant of his having been at Fort Mmmis, nor of his inhuman conduct there, for which he well deserved to die. " I had directed," con tinued he, " that you should be brought to me con fined ; and had you appeared in this way, I should have known how to have treated you." Weather- ford replied, " I am m your power — do with me as you please. I am a soldier ; I have done the white people all the harm I could ; I have fought them, and fought them bravely ; if I had an army, I would yet fight, and contena co the last : but I have none ; my people are all gone. I can now do no more than weep over the misfortunes of my nation." Pleased at the firm and high-toned manner of this child of the forest, Jackson informed him, that he did not solicit him to lay down his arms, or to be- come peaceable : " The terms on which your natioD can be saved, and peace restored, have already been disclosed : in this way, and none other, can you obtain safety." If, however, he desired still to continue the war, and felt himself prepared to meet the consequences, although he was then completely in his power, no advantage should be taken of that circumstance ; that he was at perfect liberty to re- tire, and unite himself with the war party, if he nleased ; but, when taken, he should know how to -real him, for then his life should pay the forfeit of ma crimee ; if this were not desired, he might ro where he was, and should be protectetl tlWm OF GENERAL JACKSON. 188 Nothing dismayed, Weatherford answered, that he desired peace, that his nation might, in some measure, be relieved from their sufferings ; that, independent of other misfortunes, growing out of a state of war, their cattle and grain were all wasted and destroyed, and their women and children left destitute of provisions. " But," continued he, " I ma;* be well addressed in such language now. There was a time when I had a choice, and could have answered you : I have none now — even hope has ended. Once I could animate my warriors tc battle ; but I cannot animate the dead. My war riors can no longer hear my voice : their bones are at Talladega, Tallushatchee, Emuckfaw, and To- hopeka. I have not surrendered myself thought- lessly. Whilst there were chances of success, never left my post, nor supplicated peace. But my people are gone, and I now ask it for my nation, and for myself. On the miseries and misfortunes brought upon my country, I look back with deepest sorrow, and wish to avert still greater calamities. If I had been left to contend with the Georgia army, I would have raised my corn on one bank of the river, and fought them on the other ; but youi people have destroyed my nation. You are a brave nan: I rely upon your generosity. You will ex- tct no terms of a conquered people but such as they should accede to : whatever they may be, it would now be madness and folly to oppose. If they are opposed, you shall find me amongst the sternest enforcers of obedience. Those who would still hold out can be influenced only by a mean spirit of revenge ; and to this they must not, and shal^ not, sacrifice the last remnant of their country You have told our nation where we might go, and IS4 Un OP aiNBRAL JACKSON be safb. Thix is good talk, and they ought to liirtei to it They shall listen to it." The bold independence of his conduct left no '^oubt of the sincerity of his professions, and fu^ confidence was reposed in his declarations. The peace party became reconciled to him, and consent- ed to bury all previous animosities. In a few days afterwards, having obtained pernussion, he set out from camp, accompanied by a small party, to search through the forest for his followers and friends, and persuade ihem to give up a contest in which hope seemed to be at an end, that, by timely submission, they might save their nation from further disasters The present was a fkvourable moment for pre venting all ftirther opposition. The enemy, alarm ed, were dispersed, and fleeing in different direc lions. To keep alive their apprenensions, and pre vent their recovering , from the fears with whicl they were now agitated, was of the utmost impor tance. If time were given them to form fiirthe* resolutions, some plan of operation might be con- certed ; and, although it might not be productive of any alarming consequences, yet it might have a tendency to lengthen out the war, and involve those deluded people in still greater wretchedness. De- tachments, sufficiently strong, were accordingly or- dered out, to range through the country, prevent their collecting at any point, and to scatter and destroy any who might be found concerting offen- sive operations. Wherever they directed their course, submission, and an anxious desire for peace, were manifested by the natives. Those who were still resolved upon a continuance of the war, and trusted for relief to the aid which by their British allies waa promised^ and which they had been for Ufl or OBNIRAL lACKSOM. W •OHM tHM ezpectiiig, had retired oat of tlit eoantryi toward! the lea coait, not doubting but the aMist- ance looked for would shortly arrive, enable them to re-commence hostilities with better hope* of luc- cess, and regain their country, which they now considered as lost Many of the chieft and war- riors, looking to the defeats they had continually met with in all their battles, viewing it as imprac- ticable, with any expectation of better fortune, to "esist the numerous forces that were collecting, and anxious to have spared to them a portion of their country, determined to discard all ideas of further resistance, and to throw themselves for safety on the mercy of their conquerors. To this end, the chief men, from the different tribes, were daUy arrivmg, and asking for peace, on condition only that their lives might be spared. General Jackson was not ignorant of the faith- .essness of these people, and how little confidence was to be reposed in the professions of an enemy, who, prompted by fear, could be controlled only by its influence. He well knew they had been too se- verely chastised for their promises to be relied on, and too much injured not to feel a disposition to renew the conflict with the first flattering hope that dawned. Too many difficulties had been en- countered, and too many dangers past, in bringing those savages to a sense of duty, to leave them now with no better security than mere professions. Some arrangement was necessary to be made that should ensure certainty. None seemed better cal- culated fbr these ends, than what had been alrmdy announced ; that those disposed to throw awiy the war club, and renew their friendly relations w h the United States, should retire ir the rear of uie 12 IM LIFK OF GENERAL JACKSUN. •^Tance of the army, and occupy the country about the fort he had established, and to the east of the Coosa. The effect of such an arrangement he cal- culated would be this : that, by the line of posts already established, he would be able to cut them off from any communication with Florida; while, by being placed in that part of the nation inhabited by the friendly Indians, whose fidelity was not doubted, the earliest intelligence would be had of their hostile intentions, should any be manifested. The conditions proposed were most cheerfully ac- cepted ; and the different tribes forthwith sat out to occupy a portion of their country, which alone seemed to promise them protection and safety Proctor, the chief of the Owewoha war towns, to whom this promised security from danger had first been made, was reported to be still at home, and to have abandoned all intention of removing, in con- sequence of permission extended by the United States' agent to the Creeks, for him and his war- riors to remain where they then were residing. On receiving this information, the general despatched a messenger with information to him, that whethei he or the agent were to be obeyed, was for him to decide ; but that he should treat as enemies all who did not inunediately retire to the section of country which he had pointed out The chief of Owewoha found no difficulty in deciding the ques- tion, and without delay prepared to retire where he hud been previously ordered. Lieutenant-Colonel Gibson, who had been sent out with a detachment of seven hundred and fifty men, returned, and reported, that he had proceeded a considerable distance down the Alabama River, and had destroyed several towns of the war party, Uri OF GENERilli JACK80N. 1S7 mH OMld gmin no inteUigence of a force being tn^ wbcfie collected. By the establlBhinent of Fort Jackson, a line of poflta was now fonued from Tennessee and fruirj Georgia to the Alabama River. The subdued spirit of the Indians clearly manifesting that they were sincere in their desire for peace, nothing remained to be done but to organize the different garrisons in such a manner, that, should any hostile mtention be hereafter discovered, it might be sup- pressed. What final steps should be taken, and what plans adopted, for permanent security, were to be deferred for the arrival of Major-General ''inckney, who, being in the neighbourhood, would, it was expected, oAthe next day reach Fort Jack ■on. On the 20th General Pinckney arrived, and as- sumed the command of the army. The course pursued by Jackson, towards satisfying the Indians, that to be peaceable was all tliat was required, meeting his approbation, and understanding that the chiefs and warriors of the nation were retiring with their families, whither they had been directed he was satisfied hostilities must cease. Indepen- dent of their professions, heretofbre, much of the property plundered at Fort Mimms, and along the frontiers, having been brought in, no doubt was en- tertained but all further national opposition would oe withdrawn. There being no necessity, there- fore, for maintaining an army longer in the field, orders were issued, on the 21st, for the troops from Tennessee to be marched home and discharged . taking care, on the route, to leave a sofiicient force (or garrisoning the posts already established. To troops who had been engaged in fiieb fil 188 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. tiguing marches, who had been so often exposed to hardships, and who had, by their exertions in the cause of their country, brought the wtr to a auc- cessful termination, and severely chastised the sav- ages, it was a pleasure to retire to their homes from the scenes of wretchedness they had witnessed, and from a contest where nothing remained to be done. Whilst these arrangements were progressing, the friendly Creeks were engaged in destroying their fugitive countrymen, with the most unrelent- ing rigour. To have been at the destruction of Fort Mimms, was a ground of accusation against a warrior, which at once placed him without the pale of mercy. They affected to view this un- provoked offence with sentiments of deeper invete- racy than did even our own troops. Meeting a small party who were on their way to camp, to sub- mit themselves on the terms that had been pre- viously offered, and understanding they had ac- companied Weatherford in his attack on this fort, they arrested their progress, and immediately put them to death. In two hours after receiviiig GeneraPs Pinckney's order, the western troops commenced their return march, and reached Fort Williams on the evening of the 24th. Immediate measures were adopted for carrying into effect what had been ordered ; to send out detachments to disperse any collection? of the war party that might be found on the route. and within striking distance. The East Tennessee troops, having a longer pe- riod to seive, were, on that account, selected to garrison tiie different posts. General Doherty 7iTu>ssee. to raise volunteers. — jacKson itw t"" ptomtorZTheTLessee troops to advaru:e to h^s as- sistance The celerity with which an army was raiseJ, and pushed into the heart of the enemy s country, saved the frontiers. The misfortunes of the mis- guided Indians maybe regretted but cannot be Considered as unmerited. Great forbearance had been exercised towards them, as many a parent can testify, whose heart bleeds at the remembrance of a child that fell a victim to their sangumary cruelty. Cold Water, on the Tennessee, was long a den tor these savages, whence the^ made inroads, and, by Lir inhuman butcheries, kept the frontier mhabit- antl in perpetual alarm. A descent was made on toset/ement, as early as 1787. ff/.-f ^^ - its destruction. For causes already detailed their towns were once more, in the winter of 1813, as- Bailed, and destroyed. , « . ^ ^„ The war in which the United States were en< gaged with Great Britain, afforded the Indians as they believed, a safe opportunity again to satiate ^eir angry passions. In addition to former ani- mosities British emissaries had been among then. To excit; tliem to opposition. Arms and ammumtion from Pensacola having been liberaUy furnished^ and a belief strongly inspired, that the American. 142 UWm OP eENERAL JACKAON could be driven off, and the lands poeseMed by then regained by the Indians, they at once resolved upon the course they would pursue. The dreadfii' and cruel assault made on tlie settlement of Tensaw was the first intelligence afforded of the lengths to •A'hich they had determined to proceed. The in- security of the frontiers requiring that efficient measures should bo taken to defend them, it was high time for the government to abandon the course of moderation they had hitherto practised towards those tribes. The legislature of Tennessee, at the period of this murderous assault, being in session, with a promptitude highly honourable, called out the forces of the state, without giving to the genera government information of the threatened danger To protect an extensive country, by erecting garri song, and relying on them for defence, did not ap pear to Jackson a course at all likely to assure it* object. Placed m command, and called on to act he determined, with the troops he could collect 07 so sudden an emergency, to carry the war to theii very doors ; and, by giving them employment at home, to divert them from their plans, and force them at once into measures of defence. Urging the contractors, therefore, to be diligent in the dis charge of their duties, and to for\vard supplies wit) all possible haste, he took his position at Fort Stro- ther, directly in the enemy's country. The battle of Talladega, which shortly afterwards followed^ gave a severe check to those sanguine hopes they had indulged, induced them to believe they were contending with a different kind of people from what they had expected, and should have convinced ihem, too, that the promised safety, offered by their prophets, through their spells and incantations, wat mere Dooiense ; yet so deluded were thev* and ao un Of dimiRAL JACKSON. !*• confidenUy confiding in the supernatural pc werB of their inipired men, that they were ready to attribute a want of success to circumstances over which their prophets could, in future, claim control. when It WM discovered that the prophets themselves did not escape that fatality which attended their wamors in battle, they began to think, either that they had never been commissioned, or that the Great Spirit, for some unknown cause, had with drawn his confidence. - ,., u The death of Monohoe, at the batUe of Tohope- ka, is strongly illustrative of the infatuations under which these deluded and ignorant people laboured. They did not at all doubt, but, as their prophets had told them, that, having been spotted of their hunting-grounds, they were again to re-occupy them through the aid of a new people, who from beyond the great waters were coming to assist in their recovery. A confidence in what those swth- sayers disclosed would, also, they beUeved, produce the effect of protecting and guarding them from rounds and injury when engaged m battle. Al those marvellous stories were confided m ; but when, at this battle, one of their principal prophets fell, and by a cannon shot received m the mouth, they adopted the opinion, that the character of the wound was a judgment on his false pretensions, and forthwith departed from those visions of faith which previously they had entertained. The uniform and umnterrupted successes obtain- ed over them, in all our battles, may impress the minds, not only of these, but of the Indians gene- rally within our Irniits, with a higher reverence for the character of our nation than they have hithert* 4iipQied to entertain •. grive protection to OUT 144 Uri OP GENERAL JACESOff. citiseBA, and enBure that secunty to the govern ment, which the mildness it has practiBed, and the tribute it haa constantly given them for their peaces has, heretofore, never been able to efiect; they will tend to destroy the influence held over tliem by other nations, and bring them to a conviction that the United States is the only power whose hostility they should fear, or whose friendship they should prize. It was now eight months since General Jackson had left home, to arrest the progress of the Indian war ; during most of which time he had been in a situation of bodily infirmity that would have direct- ed a prudent man to his bed, instead of advancing to the field. During this period, he had never seen his family, or been absent from the army, except to visit the posts in his rear, and arrange with his con- tractors some certain plan to guard against a future failure of supplies. His health was still delicate and rendered retirement essential to its restoration but his uniformly successful conduct, and the es sential advantages he had produced, had brought him too conspicuously before the public for any other sentiment to be indulged than that he should be placed, with an important command, in the ser- dce of the United States. The resignation of General Hampton enabled the government, in a short time, to afibrd him an evi- dence of the respect it entertained for his servi- ces and character. A notice of his appointment as brigadier and brevet major-general, was forwarded, on the 22d of May, from the war department. General Harrison having, about this time, for •ome cause, become dissatiBfied with the conduct of the government towards him, refused to be long- UFB or eSNBRAL JACKSON 14i er coiwidered one of her military actors ; to ropplj this vacancy, a commission of major-general was forwarded to Jackson, which reached him the day after the notification of his first appointment, and before he had been enabled to return an answer whether or not it would be accepted. The impor- tant services which he had rendered, added to the rank which, under the authority of his state, he had held, miglit well induce a doubt whether the appointment first conferred was at all complimen- tary, or one which, in justice to his own character, he could have accepted. Whatever of objection there might or could have arisen, on this subject, was removed by the subsequent appointment of major-general, made on the resignation of Harrison, and which was accepted. The contest with the Indians bemg ended, the first object of the government was, to enter intc some definitive arrangement, which should deprive of success any effort that might hereafter be made by other powers, to enlist those savages m ,their wars. None was so well calculated to answer this end, as that of restricting their limits, so as to cut off their communication with British and Spanish agents in East and West Florida. No treaty of friendship or of boundary had yet been entered into by the government with the In- dians: they remained a conquered people, and within the limits, and subject to the regulations and restrictions, which had been prescribed in March, by General Jackson, when he retired from their country. He was now called upon to act in a dif- ferent character, and to negotiate the terms upon which an amicable understanding should be restored between the United States and these conquered li$ LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. Cndiani. But for the government to proceed oi the principles of reciprocal treaty stipulations, waa. in reference to the expensive war imposed on them, and the unprovoked manner in which it had been begun, not to be expected. Those Indians haa broken without cause the treaty they had made, outraged humanity, and murdered our ujioffending citizens. Under such circumstances, by the peace now to be concluded, to negotiate with, and, as here- tofore, recognise them as an independent and sove reign people, comported not with propriety, nor 'vas demanded by any of the ties of moral duty. General Jackson, therefore, was directed to treat with them as a conquered people, and to prescribe, not negotiate, the conditions of a peace. Colonel Hawkins, who, for a considerable time past, had oeen the agent to this nation, was also associated m the mission. With the western people the ap- pointment was not acceptable, and much solicitude was felt from an appre'hension of his influence and weight of character amongst the Indians ; and a fear that his partialities and sympathies might in- cline him too much to their interest On the 10th of July, the general, with a smal] retinue, reached the Alabama ; and on the 10th of August, after some difficulty, succeeded in procur- ing the execution of a treaty, in which the Indiana pledged themselves no more to listen to foreign emissaries, — to hold no communication with British or Spanish garrisons ; guarantied to the United States the right of erecting military posts in heir country, and a free navigation of all their ^atero. They stipulated also, that they would suffer no ag-3nt or trader to pass among them, or hold any kind of commerce or intercourse with their nation, oalt m tfrm oy ibnkiMi iaouoii. H7 •pecially deriving /lis authority from the president of the United States. The stipulations and exactions of this treaty were in confonnity with instructions issued from the de- partment of war, and differs in expression froir what has been usually contained in instruments of a similar kind. It breathes the language of de- mand, not of contract and agreement; and hence hu3 General Jackson been censured for the manner after which the negotiation was concluded. The course, however, which was pursued, is readily jus- tified by the expressions of the order under whicli he acted, and which prevented the exercise of dis- cretion. General Armstrong, who at that time was in the cabinet, and spoke the sentiments of the president, in a letter addressed to Jackson on the 24th of March, uses the following remarks: — "It nas occurred to me, that the proposed treaty with the Creeks should take a form altogether military, and be in the nature of a capitulation ; in which case the whole authority of making and conclud ing the terms will be in you exclusively, as com- manding general." Accompanying this were in- structions formally drawn up, and which were to constitute the basis on v^hich the negotiation was to rest.* * In the instnictions which issued ftx)in the department of war, as the basis on which this treaty was to be concluded, it i« en- joined bv the secretary' to exact, " 1st. 'An indemnification for expenses incurred by the United States in prosecuting the war, by such cession of land aj may be deemed an equivaleni for said expenses. " 2d. A stipulation on iheir part, that they will ceas« all inter course with any Spanish port, garrison or town5 and that they will not admit amongst them any agent or trader who does no« ilerive his authority or license from the United Slates. " 3d. An acknowledgment of the iiglii of die United Statei M 13 148 LIFS OF GEiVERAI JACKSON. To BCttle the boundary, defining the extent o< ccrritory to be secured to the Creeks, and that whicl they would be required to surrender, was attended with difficulty, from the intrigues of the Cherokee nation, who sought to obtain such an acknowledg- ment of their lines as would give them a consider- able portion of country never attached to their claim. The Creeks had heretofore permitted this tribe to extend its settlements as low down the Coosa as the mouth of Wills' Creek. It was insist- ed now, in private council, that, as they were about to surrender their country lying on the Tennessee River, they should, previously to signing the treaty, acknowledge the extension of the Cherokee boun- dary, which would secure their claim against thai of the United States. The only reply obtained from the Creeks was in truly Indian spirit, that they could not lie by admitting what did not in reality exist. Sufficient territory was acquired on the south to give security to the Mobile settlements, and to tlie western borders of Georgia, which had often felt the stroke of Indian vengeance and cruelty ; while at the same time was effected the important purpose of separating them from the Seminole tribes, and our unfriendly neighbours in Florida. To the frontiers of Tennessee an assurance of safety was given by the settlements which would be afforded on the jpen roads through tlieir territory, and also to estabhsh suci. military posts and trading houses as may be deemed necessary J ad proper; and " 4lh. A surrender of the prophets, and other instigators of tbe var, to be heid subject to the order of the president. " You are authorized, in conjunction with (^olouel Hawkins, to .)pen and conclude a treaty of peace with the hostile Creeks v »oon as ihfjv "hsil express a desire to put an end to the war. " J. ARMSTROiVG LIFE OP UBNERAL JACH.5sON. 149 lands ertretchmg along the Tennessee River ; whilst the extent of the cession, west of the Coosa, woula effectually cut off all communication with the Chick- asaws and Choctaws, and prevent, in future, the passage of those emissaries from the north-western tribtts, who, during the present war, had so indus- triously fomented the discontents of the Creeks, and excited them to hostility. Before being finally acted upon, the treaty had been fully debated in council, and the voice of the nation pronounced against it. Jackson had already submitted the views of his government and now met them in council, to learn their determination. He was answered by the Big Warrior, a friendly chief, and one of the first orators of the nation, who declared the reluct«nice that was felt, in yield- ing to the demand, fVom a conviction of the conse- quences involved, and the distresses it must inevita bly bring upon them. The firm and dignified elo- quence of this untutored orator evinced a nerve and force of expression, that might not have passed unnoticed, had it been exhibited before a more highly polished assembly: the conclusion of his speech is given, for the satisfaction of such as can mark the bold display of savage genius, and admire it when discovered. Having unfolded the causes that produced the war, told of their sufferings, and admitted that they had been preserved alone by the army which had hastened to their assistance, he urged, that, although in justice it might be required of them to defray, hy a transfer of a portion of their country, the expenses incurred, yet was the demand premature, because the war was not ended, Bor the war party conquered ; tiiey had only flcJ iiway, ind might yet return He portrafed the 160 liIPE OF OENKIIAL JACKSOK. habita of the Indians, and how seriously they would be affected by the surrender required of them, and thus concluded : " The president, our father, advises us to honesty and fairness, and promises that justice shall be done: I hope and trust it will be! I made this war, which has proved so fatal to my country, that the treaty entered into a long^ time ago, with father Washington, might not be broken. To his friendly arm I hold fast. I will never break that bright chain of friendship we made together, and which bound us to stand to the United States. He was a father to the Muscoga people ; and not only to them but to all the people beneath the sun. His talk I now hold in my hand. There sits the agent he sent among us. Never heis he broken the treaty He h£Ls lived with us a long time. He has seen our children born, who now have children. By his direction cloth was wove, and clothes were made, and spread through^ our country ; Jut the Red Sticks came, and destroyed all, — we have none now Hard is our situation, and you ought to consider it. [ state what all the nation knows : nothing will 1 keep secret. " There stands the Little Warrior. While we were seeking to give satisfaction for the murders that had been committed, he proved a mischief- maker ; he went to the British on the lakes ; he CBme back, and brought a package to the frontiers, which increased the murders here. This conduct has already made the war party to suffer greatly ; but, although almost destroyed, they will not yet open their eyes, but are still led away by the British at Pensacola. Not so with us : we were rational, and bad our senses— we jet are so In IdWm or GKNERAL JAC&»ON 151 the war of the revolution, our father beyond the waters encouraged us to join him, and we did so We had no sense then. The promises he made were never kept We were young and foolish, and fought with him. The British can no more persuade us to do wrong: they have deceived us once, and can deceive us no more. You are two great people. If you go to war, we will have no concern in it; for we are not able to fight. W< v^isli to be at peace with every nation. If thej offer me arms, I will say to them. You put me in dajiger, to war against a people born in our own land. They shall never force us into danger. You shall never see that our chiefs are boys in council who will be forced to do any thing. I talk thus, knowing that father Washington advised us never to interfere in wars. He told us that those in peace were the happiest people. He told us that, if an enemy attacked him, he had warriors enough, and did not wish his red children to help him. If the British advise us to any thing, I will tell you — not hide it from you. If they say we must fight, I will tell them. No !" The war party being not entirely subdued, was but a pretext to avoid the demands which were made ; presuming that, if the council could break up, without any thing be.ng definitely done, they might, in part, or perhaps altogether, avoid what was now required of them ; but the inflexibility of the person with whom they were treating evinced to them, that, however just and well founded might be their objections, the policy under which he acted was too clearly defined, for any abandonment of his demands to be at all calculated upon. Shelocta, one of their chiefs, who had united with our troo|n 13* 159 LIFE or eENERAL JACKSOH. at the commencement of the war ; who had march ed and fought with them in all their battles ; and had attached to himself strongly the confidence of tne commanding general, now addressed him. He told him of the regard he had ever felt for his white brothers, and with what zeal he had exerted himself to preserve peace, and keep in friendship with them ; when his efforts had failed, he haa .'aken up arms against his own country, and fought against his own people ; that he was not opposed to yielding the lands lying on the Alabama, which would answer the purpose of cutting off any inter- course with the Spaniards ; but the country west of the Coosa he wished to be preserved to the na- tion.* To effect this, he appealed to the feelings of Jackson ; told him of the dangers they had pass- ed together ; and of his faithfulness to him in the trying scenes through which they had gone. There were, indeed, none whose voice ought sooner to have been, heard than Shelocta's. None had rendered greater services, and none had been more faithftil. He had claims, growing out of his fidelity, that few others had : but his wishes were so much at variance with what Jackson considered the interest of his country required, that he was answered without hesitation. " You know," said he, " that the portion of country, which you desire to retain, is that through which the intruders and mischief-makers from the lakes reached you, and urged your nation to those acta of violence, that have involved your people in wretchedness, and your country in ruin. Through it leads the path Tocumseh trod, when he came to visit you : that • This country west of the Coosa now forms the respecuUi of Alabama, admitted into the Union in tlie year 1819 UWM OF QftKERAL JACKSON lH path muBt be stopped. Until this be done, yon? nation cannot expect happiness, nor mine security. I have already told you the reasons foi demanding it: they are such as ought not— cannot be departed from. This evening must determme whether or not you are disposed to become friendly. By re- jecting the treaty you will show that you are the enemies of the United States — enemies even to yourselves." He admitted it to be true, that the war was not ended, yet that this was an additional reason why the cession should be made ; that then a line would be drawn, by which his soldiers would 08 enabled to know their friends. "When our armies," continued he, "came here, the hostile ^arty had even stripped you of your country : we tetook it, and now offer to restore it; — ^theirs we propose to retain. Those who are disposed to give effect to the treaty will sign it They will be within our territory ; will be protected and fed : and no enemy of theirs, or ours, shall molest them. Those who are opposed to it shall have permission to retire to Pensacola. Here is the paper : take it, and show the president who are his friends. Con- sult, and this evening let me know who will assent to it, and who will not. I do not wish, nor will I attempt, to force any of you — act as you think proper.' They proceeded to deliberate and re-examine the course they should pursue, which terminated in their assent to the treaty, and the extension of those advantages that had been insisted on.* * It was agreed that the line should begin where the Cberoke« •outhern boundary crossed the Coosa, to run dovm that liver to Woetum-ka, or the Bic Falls, and tiience eastwardly U> Geoivia. East and north of this line, containing- upwards of one buac&ed Bad fifty thousand square miles, remam^ to tlM ladiaaeL 154 LIFE OF 'iENERAL JACKSON. In the progress of this business another difBenl- ty aroej : the council insisted that there should be uwerted in the treaty a reservation of certain tracts of land ; one for Colonel Hawkins, in consideration of his fidelity to them as aa agent ; and another to Jackson, because of the gratitude felt towards him for his exertions in their favour against the hostile Creeks. To this the general objected. It was personal as it regarded himself, and he was unwil ling to appear in any point of view, where suspicion could attach, that he had availed himself of his official situation to obtam personal benefits ; fully aware that, however the facts might be, selfish con- siderations would be imputed as an inducement to what was done. He refiised, therefore, to have it mserted ; and for the further reason, that the in- Bt ructions, under which he was acting, required i lo be a capitulation, not a treaty. The next morn- jQg, however, when they met in council to sign the mstrument, the chie'fs delivered to the general a paper, expressing a wish, and disclosing their rea- sons, that a reservation to himself, Colonel Haw- kins, and Mayfield, who, being made a prisoner in his youth, had always resided in the nation, might be assented to ; and requested it to be forwarde*' on and made known to the government Jackson consented to do so, and to recommend its adoption . but that the reservation they had thought proper to request, if assented to, he would accept of on no 3tlier terms than that their father the president should dispose of it, and apply the proceeds to those of the nation on whom distress and poverty had been broughu by the war. Mr. Madison subse- quently brought this matter to the consideration of the senate of the United States, and, in rocom' UrU OW SBNBRAL JACftlOll. Ill mending Ha adoption, highly complimented the del- icacy with which the proposition had been met by General Jackson : it was, however never acted on and assented to by the senate. Every attention had been given, during the ne- gotiation, to impress on the minds of the savages the necessity of remaining at peace and in friendship with the United States ; for, although all apprehen- sions of their acting in concert as a nation had sub- sided, yet it was important to leave their minds favourably impressed, lest the wandering fugitives, scattered in considerable numbers towards the Es- cambia and Pensacola, might, by continuing hostile, associate with them others of their countrymen, at- tach themselves to the British, should they appear in the south, aid them by their numbers, and pilok them through the country. This retreat of the savages in East Florida hao been always looked upon as a place whence the United States might apprehend serious difficulties. There was no doubt ^ut that the British, through this channel, with the aid of the governor, had pro- tected the Indians, and supplied them with arms and ammunition ; nor was it less certain but that, through the art and address practised on them, they had been excited to the outrages which had been heretofore committed. It was an idea entertained by Jackson, at the commencement of the Creek war, that the proper mode of procedure would be to push his army through the nation ; gain this den, where vegetated so many evOs ; and, by holding it, effectually cut off their intercourse, and means of encouraging the war : but the unexpected difficul- ties, which we have before noticed, had repressed the execution of his well-digested plans, and left IM UFI or GENKRAL JACKSON. him to pursue his course as circumBtances, and the obstacles met with, would permit. The assistance which, during the war, had been continually afford- ed these people from Pensacola, mduced him once more to turn his attention there ; and he now strongly urged on government the propriety of breaking down this strong hold, whence so many evils had flowed, and whence greater ones were to be expected. His mind, actively engaged, while employed in settling all differences at Fort Jackson, had sought, through every channel that could afford it, information as to the designs of the British against the southern parts of the Union. The idea Had been prevalent, and generally indulged, that, as soon as the severity of approaching winter should put a stop to active operations on tlie Canada fron- tier, with all their disposable force, they would turn their attention against the southern states, and there attempt to gain some decisive advantage. New Orleans, with one Consent, was fixed upon as the point that most probably would be assailed. The circumstance of there being so many persons there, who have never been supposed to entertain any well founded regard for the country in which they dved, together with a large black population, which, it wae feared, might be excited to insurrection and massacre, through the persuasions of an enemv wl*o geemed to disregard all the laws of humanity, were reasons which strongly led to this conclusion. General Jackson, having understood that that comfort and aid, which heretofore had been so lib- erally extended, was still afforded by the Spanish governor to the hostile Indians, who had fled from the rayages of the Creek war, cherished the belief that hi« conduct wa« such as deservedly to exclude Uri OP GSNBRAL JACKSOM. 11^ oim from that protection to which, under other cir- cumstances, he would be entitled, from the profess- ed neutrality of Spain. At all events, if the im- oroper acta of the Spanish agents woula not author- ize the American government openly to redress herself for the unprovoked injuries she had received they were such, he believed, as would justify any course which had for its object to arrest their con- tinuance, and give safety to the country. In this point of view he had already considered it, when, on his way to the treaty at Fort Jackson, he received certain tiformation, that about three hundred English troops jiad landed; were fortifying themselves at the mouth of the Apalachicola ; and were endeavouring to excite the Indians to war. No time was lost m giving the government notice of what was passing, and of the course most advisable to be pursued. The advantages to be secured from the possession of Pensacola he had frequently urged. On the 17th of January, 1815, after the British army had been repulsed at New Orleans, and the de- scent on Florida almost forgotten, through tlie post office department, dated at Washington city, the 18th of July, 1814, he received the following letter from General Armstrong, then secretary at war : " The case you put is a very strong one : and, if all the circumstances stated by you unite, the con- clusion is irresistible. It becomes our duty to carry our arms where we find our enemies. It is believed, and I am so directed by the president to say, that there is a disposition, on the part of the Spanish gov- ernment, not to break with the United States, nor tc encourage any conduct, on the part of her 8i?*^''*-'ii- Date agents, having a tendency to such rupture. We Vfiutty therefore, in this ^asO; be careflil to Mcertaip 158 tirm op general iaceion. facta, and even to distinguish what, on the part of the Spanish authoritiesj may be the effect of menace and compulsion, or of their choice and policy. Thp result of this inquiry must govern. If they ad- mit, feed, arm, and co-operate with the British and hostile Indians, we must strike on the broad princi pie of self-preservation : — under other and difleren' circumstances, we must forbear.'" That tlie state of things, here suggested by the secretary, did actually exist ; that the British were favourably received, and every assistance necessary to a continuance of hostilities extended to the Indi- ans, the government had been already apprized, by the frequent communications made to them on the subject On arriving at Fort Jackson, his first attention had been directed to a subject which he believed to be of greater importance than making Indian trea- ties—to establish a plan by which to be constantly advised, during his stay, of those schemes that were in agitation in tRe south: believing that every oassing event might be readily obtained through the Indians, who could go among the British with- out in the least exciting suspicion, he had required Colonel Hawkins to procure some, who were confi- dential, and might be certainly relied on, to proceed to the Apalachicola, and towards the coast, and to return as early as they could obtain correct infor- mation of the strength, views, and situation of the enemy. In about fifteen days tliey came back, con firming the statement previously received, that a considerable English force had arrived, and waa then in the Bay of St. Rose ; that muskets and am- auixution had been givan to the Indians, and runneri LIFB OP GENERAL JACKSON. 159 despatched to the different tribes to invite them to the coast Satisfied that such pennissions, by a neutral power, were too grievous to be borne, he immedi- ately addressed a letter to the governor of Pensa- cola, apprizing him of the information received : pnd inquiring why and wherefore it happened that every protection and assistance was furnished the enemies of the United States, within his territory ; requesting him to state whether or not the facts were as they had been represented ; and demanding to have surrendered to him such of the chiefs of the hostile Indians as were with him. " I rely," continued he, " on the existing friendship of Spain her treaties, and that neutrality which she should observe, as authority for the demand I make." The governor's answer, which shortly afterwards was received, evinced nothing of a conciliatory temper, and left no hope of procuring any other redress than that which might be obtained through some different channel. It was a subject, however, which required to be managed with considerable caution. Spain and the United States were at peace. To reduce any portion of her territory, and take possession of it, in exclusion of her authority, might be construed such an aggression as to induce her into the war. On the other hand, for her, with open arms, to receive our enemies, and permit them to make every preparation, within her ports, for in- vading our country, were outrages too monstrous to be borne, and, in the opinion of Jackson, required to be remedied, let the consequences in prospective be what they might. Although these things had been earnestly pressed upon the consideration of the war department, no answer to hie repeated lo- 14 liO Lira OF GENERAL JACKSON licitationB on the subject had been received. 0» his own responsibility, to advance to the execution of a measure, which involved so much, when his government was, and had for some time been^ m possession of all the circumstances, was risking too much. yet, were it delayed longer, every day might give to Pensacola additional strength, and increase the danger attendant on its reduction Undetermined, under considerations like these, he resolved upon another expedient — to despatch a messenger, to lay open to the governor the ground of his complaint — obtain from him a declaration of nis intention, as regarded the course he meant to adopt, and pursue — and ascertain whether he de- bigned to make subsisting treaties, between the two nations, the basis of his conduct, or to pursue a con- cealed course, which, under the garb of pretended friendship, cloaked all the realities of war. The propriety of delivering up the hostile Indians, who were with him, to jitone for the violation of existing treaties, and the rights of humanity, and the mur- ders they had conmiitted, was again solicited. A reply was not concluded on by the governor for some time, owing to a very considerable doubt that harassed his mind, whether it would not be more proper to return it without an answer, " in im- tation of the conduct of General Floumoy, who, acting in conformity to the orders of Mr. Madison, heretofore had omitted to answer a despatch of his." But, having considered the matter quite 'deliberate- ly, he at length came to the conclusion, to wave the example set him by the president, and, in replying to act in obedience to those " high and generoui feelings peculiar t» the Spanish character." To tho demuid made upon him, that the hoetile UFB OF eENFRAX JACKSON. 161 Indians ahould be delivered up. he denied that they were with him, " at that tim^ ,'' or that he could, on the ground of hospitality, refnae them assistance at a moment when their distresses were so great ; nor could he surrender them, witnout acting in open violation of the laws of nations, — laws, to which his Eovereign had ever strictly adhered, and of which he had already afforded the United States abundant evidence, in omitting to demand of them " the trai- tors, insurgents, incendiaries, and assassins of his cniefs, namely, Guiterres, Toledo, and many others, whom the American government protected and maintained in committing hostilities, in fomenting the revolution, and m lighting up the flames of dis- cord in the internal provinces of the kingdom of Mexico." To the inquiry, why the English had been suflTered to land in his province arms and ammunition, with a view to encouraging the Indians in their acts of hos' tility, he proceeded with his same " national charac- teristic," and demanded to be informed if the United States were ignorant, that, at the conquest of Flor- ida, there was a treaty between Great Britain and the Creek Indians, and whether they did not know that it still existed between Spain and those tribes. " But," continued he, " turn your eyes to the island of Barrataria, and you will there perceive that, within the very territory of the United States, p - rates q,re sheltered, with the manifest design of comiiiittiag hostilities by sea upon the merchant, vesbels of Spain ; and with such scandalous notori ety, that the cargoes of our vessels, taken by them have been publicly sold in Louisiana." It is difficult to discover how, or by what system of logic, it was; that Governor Manreqoez was ena 161 UFB OF GENERAL JACKSON olcd to trace any kind of analogy between tb« iJmted States aflfording to a few of the patriots of South America an asylum from the persecutiona that were threatened to be imposed on them by Spanish tyranny, and his permitting, within the lira its of Florida, comfort, aid, and assistance to be given the savages, that they might be enabled to indulge in cruelty towards us. Nor can it be per- ceived how it was, that the piracies of Lafite and his party, at Barrataria, and the successful smug- gling which brought their plundered wealth into port, in open defiance of our laws, could operate as a sufficient pretext for giving protection to an ene- my entering the territory of Spain, and continuing there, with the avowed intention of waging wai against a power, with which she not only professed to be in friendship, but was bound by treaty to be so, and at the very time, too, when she claimed to be neutral. Nor can we see the force of the argu- ment, because England had a treaty with the Creek Indians, which afterwards devolved on Spain, that the agents of his Catholic majesty were, in conse- quence, justified in protecting the savages in their murders, or assisting covertly, as they did, in the war against us : how the conclusions were arrived at, the governor can decide at some moment, when, relieved from those high and honourable feelings « peculiar to the Spanish character," Reason may re-assert her empire over him, and point out tlie manner in which he was enabled to produce his strange results. The governor, however, had evinced rather too high a state of feeling, and taken his ground with- out suffering his reflections to go to their full ex taut He had placed arms in the hands of the sa^ URB OF GENERAL JACKSOlf 16S ages " for the purposes of self-defence " many of them were hastening to him ; more were yet ex- pected. The British had already landed a partial force, and a greater one was shortly looked for. Against this expected strength, added to what his own resources could supply, he believed an Amen can general would not venture to advance. These considerations had led him to assume a lofty tone ; to arraign the conduct of the United States, in ex- tinguishing the Indian title on the Alabama ; to ac- cuse them of violating their treaties, and to point out the danger to which the restoration of peace in Europe might expose them. As yet he was ignorant of the energy of the man already near his borders, and who, to march against and break down his fan- cied security, did not desire to be ordered, but only to be apprized by his country that it might be done. Jackson, in no wise pleased with the boldness of his remarks, proceeded again to address him, and exhib- ited fully the grounds of complaint in behalf of his country, and in a style at least as courtly as his own. "Were I clotlied," he remarks, " with diplomatic powers, for the purpose of discussing the topics em- braced in the wide range of injuries, of which you complain, and which have long since been adjusted, I could easily demonstrate that the United States have been always faithful to thecr treaties, steadfast in their friendships, nor have ever claimed any thing that was not v/arranted by justice. They have en dured many insults from the governors and other oncers of Spain, which, if sanctioned by their sove- reign, would have amounted to acts of host'lity, wiUiout any previous declaration on the subject They have excited the savages to war, and afford ed thero the means of waging it : the property of U* 164 LIPB OP GENERAL JACKBON. our citizens has been captured at sea, and, if com pensation has not been refused, it has at least been withheld. But, as no such powers have been dele- gated to me, I shall not assume them, but leave them to the representatives of our respective gov- ernments. « I have the honour of being intrusted with the command of this district. Charged with its protec- tion, and the safety of its citizens, I feel my ability to discharge the task, and trust your excellency will always find me ready and willing to go for- ward, in the performance of that duty, whenever circumstances shall render it necessary. I agree with you, perfectly, that candour and polite lan- guage should, at all times, characterize the commu- nications between the officers of friendly sovereign- ties ; and I assert, without the fear of contradiction, that my former letters were couched in terms the most respectful and unexceptionable. I only re- quested, and did not demand, as you have assert- ed, that the ringleaders of the Creek confederacy night be delivered to me, who had taken refuge in your town, and who had violated all laws, moral civil and divine. This I had a right to do, from the treaty which I sent you, and which I now again en- close, with a request that you will change your translation ; believing, as I do, that your fbrmer one v/as wrong, and has deceived you. What kind of an answer you returned, a reference to your letter will explain. The whole of it breath- ed nothing but hostility, grounded upon assumed facts, and false charges, and entirely evading the nquiries that had been made. " I can but express my astonishment at your pro tMt «gaiiut the cession on the Alabama, lying LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. 16S within the acknowledged limits and jurisdiction of the United States, and wjiich has been ratified, in due form, by the principal chiefs and warriors of the nation. But my astonishment subsides, when on comparison, I find it upon a par with the rest of your letter and conduct ; taken together, they af- ford a sufficient justification for any course on mj part, or consequences that may ensue to yourself. My government will protect every inch of her te^*ri- tory, her citizens, and their property,^ from insult and depredation, regardless of the political revolu- tions of Europe ; and, although she has been at all times sedulous to preserve a good understanding with all the world, yet she has sacred rights, that cannot be trampled upon with impunity. Spain iiad better look to her own intestine commotions bv^fore she walks forth in that majesty of strength and power, which you threaten to draw down upon the United States. " Your excellency has been candid enough to ad- mit your having supplied the Indians with arras. In addition to this, I have learned that a British flag has been seen flying on one of your forts. All this is done whilst you are pretending to be neu- tral. You cannot be surprised, then, but on the contrary will provide a fort in your town for my soldiers and Indians, should I take it in my head to pay you a visit. " In future I beg you to withhold your insulting charges against my government for one more in- clined to listen to i ^andpr than I am ; nor consldei me any more as a liplomatic character, unless sc proclaimed to you from the mouths of ray cannon." Captain Gordon, who had beer despatched tc Pens&cola, had been enabled, during the time he Mi UPI OF OimSAL lACKSOir. remained there, to obtain mich more satisfactorf information than it had pleaaed the governor to communicate. Appearances completely developed the schemes which were in agitation, and convinc- ed him that active operations were intended to be conunenced somewhere m the lower country. On nis return, he reported to the general, that he had seen from one hundred and fifty to two hundred oflBcers and soldiers, a park of artillery, and about five hundred Indians, under the drill of British offi- cers, armed with new muskets, and dressed in the English uniform. Jackson directly brought to the view of the gov- ernment the information he had received, and again urged his favourite scheme, the reduction of Pen- sacola. " How long," he observed, " will the Unit- ed States pocket the reproach and open insults of Spain ? It is alone by a manly and dignified course, that we can secure respect from other nations, and peace to our own. Temporizing policy is not only a disgrace, but a curse to any nation. It is a fact that a British captain of marines is, and has for some time past been, engaged in drilling and or- ganizing the fugitive Creeks, under the eye of the governor ; endeavouring, by his influence and pres- ents, to draw to his standard as well the peaceable as the hostile Indians. If permission had been given me to march against this place twenty days ago, I woult% ere this, have planted there the Amer- ican Eagle ; now, we must trust alone to our val- our, and to the justice of our cause. But my pres- ent resources are so limited — a sickly climate, as well as an enemy, to contend with, and without the means of transportation to change the position of Ura OP «1NERAL lACKlON. If? my umy, that, restiiii^ on the bravery of my Ihtlt phalanx, I can only hope for success.^' Many difficulties were presented ; and, although anxious to carry into execution a purpose which seemed so strongly warranted by necessity, he saw that he was wholly without the power of moving, even should he be directed to do so. Acting in a remote corner of the Union, which was thinly inhab- ited, the credit of his government was inadequate to procure those things essential to his operations , while the poverty of his quarter-master's depart- ment presented but a dreary prospect for reliance. But, to have all things in a state of readiness for ac- tion, when the time should arrive to authorize it, he was directing his attention in the way most likely to effect it. The warriors of the different tribes of Indians were ordered to be marshalled, and taken into tlie pay of the government He addressed himself to the governors of Tennessee, Louisiana, and tlie Mississippi territory, and pressed them to be vigilant in the discharge of tlieir duties. Infor- mation, he said, had reached him, which rendered it necessary that all the forces allotted for the de fence of the seventh military district, should be held in a state of perfect readiness, to march at any notice, and to any point they might be required "Dark and heavy clouds hover around us. The energy and patriotism of the citizens of your states must dispel them. Our rights, our liberties, and free constitution, are threatened. This noble pat- rimony of our fathers must be defended with the best blood of our country : to do this, you must hasten to carry into effect the requisition of the secretary of vrpx, and call fcrth your troops without delay." 168 LLFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. On the day after completing his business at Port Jackson, he had departed for Mobile, to place the country in a proper state of defence. The third regiment, a part of the forty-fourth and thirty-ninth, constituted, entirely, the regular forces he could at this time command. Many reasons concurred to render it necessary that a sufficient force should be brought into the field as early as possible. His ap- peals to the people of Tennessee had been generally crowned with success ; and he had no doubt but that he might yet obtain from them such assistance as would enable him, should any unexpected emergen- cy arise, to act at least defensively, until the states already applied to should have their quotas ready for .he field. On the citizens of Louisiana and Missis- sippi he believed he might securely rely, and that their ardour would readily excite them to contend with an enemy at their very doors. Well knowmg the delay incident to bringing militia requisitions expeditiously fortli, 5,nd fearing that some circum- stance might arise to jeopardize the safety of the country, before the constituted authorities could act, he had already despatched his adjutant-general, Colonel Butler, to Tennessee with orders to raise volunteers, and have them in readiness to advance to his relief, whenever it should be required. Every day's intelligence tended to confirm the belief that a descent would be made, — most proba- bly on New Orleans. Anonymous letters, secretly forwarded from Pensacola, and which found their way into the American camp, suggested this aa the point of assault ; and many of the settlers were ap- prized by their friends cf the fears entertained for their safety, and entreated to retire from the gath- ering storm, which, it was feared, would toon burnt LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. 169 and entirely involve the lower country in ruin. Where certainly to expect attack, was as yet un. known. Tlie part of the country bordering on Mo- bile might be assailed ; yet, taking into considera- tion that no very decided advantages could be ob- tained there, it was an event not much to be appre- hended. The necessity, however, of being prepar- ed at all points, so far as the means of defence could be procured, was at once obvious ; for, as the general, in one of his letters, remarked, " there was no telling where or when the spoiler might come." There were now too many reasons to expect an early visit, and too many causes to apprehend dan- ger, not to desire that an efficient force might be within convenient distance. Colonel Butler was accordingly written to, and ordered to hasten for- ward, with the volunteers he could procure, and to join him without delay. The order reached him at Nashville, on the 9th of September, and he forth- with engaged actively in its execution. He directly applied to General Coffee, to advance with the mounted troops ae could collect. A general order was at the same time issued, bringing to view the dangers that threatened, and soliciting those who were disposed to aid in protecting their country from invasion, to unite with him at Fayetteville, by the 28th instant. The appeal was not ineffectual ; although the scene of operation was at least four hundred miles from the point of rendezvous, the call was promptly obeyed ; and two thousand able- bodied men, well supplied with rifles and muskets, appeared at the appointed time to march with the brave General Coffee, who had so often led his troops to victory and honour. Colonel Butler, with 170 UFK OF GENERAL JACKSON. taa Offoal industry, hastened to press forward the militia, under the commaiid of Colonel Lowery which had been heretofore required for garrisoning the po0ta in the Indian country ; whilst Captains Baker and Butler, with the regular forces lately en- listed, advanced from Nashville to Mobile, where they arrived in fourteen days. By proper exertions every thing was presently in complete readiness : and the troops collected for the campaign, in high spirits, set out for the point to which danger, du^, •nd their countnr called them. UffB or aiNBRAL JACKBOJf. 17] CHAPTER VTL Colmd NichoiU arriws at Petisacola, and issues a proclamatum td the tauihtm inhabiiaids. — Aiiack on Fort Bowyer, and loss oj the Hermes. — Jackson determines to reduce Fensacola. — Demams of the governor an explanation of his conduct ; his answer — Enters and takes possession of Pensacola. — Conduct and perjidy of the governor. Destruction, by the British, of Barrancas Fort. — Our troops return to Mobile. — Expedition against the Indians. — General Wincliesier arrives, and Jackson proceeds tc take command of New Orleans. Whether a force were thus concentrating to act defensively against an invading enemy, or were in- tended to reduce the rallying point of the Indians and British in the Spanish territory, whence they had it in their power to make sudden inroads on any part of our coast, as yet all was conjecture. It was a trait in Jackson's character to lock closely in his bosom all his determinations : it was only to a few, on whom he reposed with unlimited confi- dence, that the least intimation was at any time giv- en of his intentions. The idea could scarcely be entertained, that, at this time, any hostility waa meditated against Pensacola. It was impossible he should remain long in doubt, as to the course best calculated to assure defence, or to the ulterior objects of the enemy. Colonel Nicholls, with a small squadron of his Britannic majesty's ships, had arrived the latter part of Au- gust, and taken up his head-quarters with Governor Manrequez. He was an Irishman, sent in advance •y his royal master to sow dissensions among ouf ^ple^ and to draw around hia standard the male 15 179 UFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. contents and traitors of the country. His proclama tion, issued to the western and southern inhabitantHi ftill of well-turned periods, false statements and high-sounding proinises, it was hoped, would lead them to a belief, that the government under which tliey lived was forging for them chains ; that it had declared war against a power, the freest, the hap- piest, the most moral and religious on earth. He Slated, that he was at the heo J of a force amply suf- ficient to reinstate them in those liberties and en- joyments, of whicli they had been bereaved, by the designs of " a contemptible few." That such as were disposed to imbrue their hands in the blood of their countrymen, might not quietly rest, doubt- mg of the assurances proffered thorn, he concluded by tendering, as security for all he had said and promised, " the sacred honour of a British officer." Perhaps he could have vouchsafed nothing that the American people would not have sooner relied on it was a pledge, in which past experience told tliem they could not iji safety confide. To them it waa a matter of surprise, that a country, from which they had learned all they had ever known or felt of oppression, should come to make tliem freer than ttiey were ; or that, groaning themselves under 8 load of taxes, from which there was scarcely a hope of being ever relieved, they should come, with such apparent compassion, and great benevolence, to take away the burdens of those whom they despis- ed, and on whom, for forty years, they had heaped nothing but reproach. He had waited about two weeks, that his proc fjimation might take effectual hold, anJ prepare the uih&bitanta to open their bosoms to receive him, when tliis delivermg hero aided by his Indian and UWM OP eSNBRAL JACKSOV. 17t Spaniflh alli'eS) set out to ascertain the effect it had wrought His first visit was to Fort Bowyer, sit- uated on the extreme end of a narrow neck of land, about eighteen miles below the head of Mobile Bay, the entrance of which it commanded. With the loss ol one of his ships and an eye, he had the mortification to learn, that he had been addressing an incorrigi ble race, who could be neither duped, flattered, noi forced into submission. Fort Bowyer had been heretofore abandoned : and, until the arrival of General Jackson in this sec- tion of the country, was indeed ill calculated for serious resistance. On perceiving its importance. he immediately caused it to be placed in the best possible state of defence. So effectual was its sit- aation in a military point of view, commanding the passes of those rivers which discharged themselves into the bay, that it was with him a matter of sur- prise it had not been more regarded by the United States, and even better attended to by our enemies. Major Lawrence had the honour to command this spot, the gallant defence of which has given it ce- lebrity, and raised him to an elevated stand in the estimation of his country. That at Pensacola plans of operation were digesting, which had for their object an invasion of our coast somewhere, was a fact to which Lawrence was not a stranger. A dispo- sition to have his little fortress in such a state of readiness, as would place it m his power, should that be their object, to make a brave defence, had prompted him to the most vigorous exertions. His whole strength was but one hundred and thirty men. By this Spartan band was evinced a confi- dence in each other, and an unshaken resolution. which left their brave commande no room U> ap 174 uri or •imiRAL jackbon. prebend diahonour to his flag, even should deieai result. The 12th of September determined all doubt ot the object which tlie British had in view. The sen tinels brought intelligence that a considerable force, consisting of Indians, marines, and Spaniards, had landed ; and the same day two brigs and sloops hove in sight of the fort, and anchored. The next day a demonstration was made, by those who had been landed, to bring on the attack ; but a fire from the fort forced them from their position, and compelled them to retire about two miles whence, attempting to throw up fortifications, they were again made to retreat. Early on the morning of the loth, the signals, passing from the ships to the shore, led Lawrence to believe an assault was intended, and would short- ly be made. At half after four o'clock in the even- ing, every thing being arranged, the Hermes, in the van, commanded by Sir W. H. Percy, and the other vessels close in the rear, anchored within musket-shot fire of the fort From her near posi- tior., supported by the Carron, and brigs Sophia and Anaconda, mounting in all ninety guns, she open- ed a broadside. Colonel Nicholls and Captain Woodbine, at the head of their detachment, com- menced a simultaneous attack by land, with a twelve pound howitzer, at point blank distance ; but from their sand bank fortifications they were so quickly driven as to be unable to produce the slight est injury. The action raged with considerable violence From the fort and ships was pouring a continual fire The Hermes, having, at length, received a shot through her cable,was drivenfi om her anchorage, and UFl or flINKRAL lACKtON. 171 Hotted with the itretm. In this eitu&tion ihe wsi thrown into a poeition, where, for twenty minute*, she received a severely raking fire, which did hei considerable damage. In her disabled condition, it was no longer possible to control her, whence, drifting with the current, she ran upon a saLd bank about seven hundred yards distant, where, until late at night, she remained exposed to the guns of the fort Her commander, finding it impracticable to be relieved, set her on fire, and abandoned her. She continued burning until eleven o'clock, when she blew up. The Carron, next in advance to the Hermes, was considerably iiyured, and with diffi- culty went out to sea. It may be worth while, to show the difibrence in battle between the two combatants, to mark the conduct of British and American oflicers, under cir cumstances precisely similar. Whilst the battle raged, the flag of the van ship was carried away, and at this moment she had ceased to fire. What had caused its disappearance none could tell : no other opinion was, or could with propriety be en- tertained, than that it had been hauled down, with a view to yield the contest, and surrender. Influ- enced by this belief, Lawrence, with a generosity characteristic of our officers, immediately desisted from further firing. The appearance of a new flag, and a broadside from the ship next the Hermes, was the first intelligence received that such was not the fact and the contest again raged with renewed violence. It was but a few minutes, however, before the flag-staff" of the fort was also carried away ; but, ■o far from pursuing the same generous course tliat Iwd just been witnessed, the zeal of the enemy wa« tDcreased, and the assault more furiouily urged 16* 176 uri or aE^^£RAL iackhon. At tiuB moment, Nicholls and Woodbine, at the head of their embattled train . perceiving what had hap- pened, — that our " star-spangled banner" had sunk, — at once presuming all danger to have subsided, made a moat courageous sally from their strong hold; and, pushing towards their vanquished foes, were already calculating on a rich harvest of plun- der: but a well-directed fire checked their pro gress, dissipated their expectations, and drove them back, with a rapidity even surpassing the celerity of their advance. From the bay, the attack was waged with a force of six hundred men, and ninety guns, of larger cal- iber than any opposed to them ; whilst upwards of four hundred Indians and other troops were on the shore, in rear of the fort. Lawrence's strength waa scarcely a tenth of the enemy's. His fort, hastily prepared for defence, with not more tlian twenty guns, was ill calculated for stubborn resistance : most of these were of small caliber, whilst many, from being badly mounted, were capable of render- ing no essential service in the action : yet, with this great inequality, he well maintained the honour of his flag, and compelled the enemy, resting in full confidence of success, to retire, with the loss of their best ship, and two hundred and thirty men killed and wounded ; whilst the loss sustained by the Americans did not exceed ten Very different were the feelings of the leaders of this expedition, from what had been entertained on setting out from Pensacola, where every thing had been prepared for giving success to their plans, and where scarcely a doubt was entertained of tlie rcflulv. Numerous benefits were expected to arise fipom a victory, not in expectancy, but already looked Lin or GSNBRAL JACKSON. 177 to aa certain — aa an event that could not fail From it, greater facility would be given to their opera- lions ; while Mobile, it was expected, would fall, of course. This being effected, independent of the strong hold already possessed in Florida, an addi- tional advantage would be acquired, calculated tc prevent all intercourse with New Orleans from this . section of the country, enable them more easily tc ' procure supplies, and, having obtained tlieir expect- ed re- enforcements, piloted and aided by the Indians to proceed across to the Mississippi, and cut off all communication with the western states. To rendei the blow effectual was important ; that, by impress ing at once the inhabitants with an idea of thei, prowess, the proclamations already disseminatec might claim a stronger influence on doubting minds. The force employed was calculated to at tain these wished-for results. While the attack should be furiously waged by the ships from the bay and the forces on the shore, the yells of three or four hundred savages in the rear, it was calculated, would strike the defenders of this fort with such panic, as to make them, at the first onset, throw down their arms, and clamour for mercy. This be lief was so sanguinely indulged, that obstinate re- sistance had never been thought of. Different was the reality — instead of triumph, they had met de- feat. The only badges of victory they could pre- sent their friends, with w^honr, but a few days before, with flattering promises they had parted, were shat- tered hulks, that could scarcely keep above the water, and decks covered with the dead and wounded. The three vessels that retired from the contest irere considerably injured, and with difiiculty pro 178 LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. ceedeJ to sea, leaving Nicholls and WoodbmCj with their friends and allies, on the shore, to make good tlieir retreat, as discretion should permit. On Uie morning of the 14tli, Jackson, fearing, from every thing he had learned, that an attack would be made, had set out in a boat from Mobile, to visit Fort Bowyer, examine its situation, and have such arrangements made as would add to its strength, and obtain that security which its re-estab- Ushmont had been designed to effect. He had pro- ceeded down the bay, and arrived within a few miles of the place, when he met an express from Lawrence, bringing intelligence of the enemy's ar rival, and requesting that assistance might be im- mediately sent to his relief. The general, hEistening back, late at night, despatched a brig, with eighty men, under the command of Captain Laval. Not being able to reach his point of destination until the next day, and finding every place of entrance block- ed up by the besiegers, he ran his brig to the land, determined to remain there until night, when, under cover of its darkness, he hoped to succeed in throw- ing into the fort himself and the re-enforcement un- der his command. The battle, however, having in the mean time commenced, presented new difficul- ties, and restrained the execution of his purpose, unless he should venture to encounter greater haz- ard than prudence seemed to sanction. The Her- nies, on being driven from her anchorage, had, at the time of her explosion, floated and grounded in a direction, which, from the position she occupied, placed her immediately in the rear of the fort. This circumstance well accounted for the mistake with which he was impressed, and led Captain La- \ al to suppose tliat his brave countrymen had al] UPS OP eiNERAL JACKSON. I7t perished. Believing tliey would now attempt to carry his vessel, he set sail for Mobile, and report ed to the commanding general the loss. Jackson declared it was impossible ; that he had heard the explosion, and was convinced it was on the water, and not on the shore. Perhaps his great anxiety, more than any reality, iiad constituted this refined difference in sound. If, however, the disasters were aa it was reported, his own situation being thereby rendered precarious, something was necessary to be done to repair the loss, and regain a place foi many reasons too important to be yielded. His principal fears were, lest the strength of the enemy should be greatly increased, before his expected re-enforcements could arrive, who would be enabled to extend his inroads, and paralyze the zeal of the country. It was not a time for much deliberation as to the course most advisable to be pursued. He determined, at all hazard, to retake the fort ; and to that end a general order was issued for the de- parture of the troops. Every thing was nearly in readiness, when a despatch arrived from Lawrence, proclaiming the pleasing intelligence, that all was safe, and that the enemy, vanquished, had retired. The conduct displayed by the officers and soldieri of this garrison is worthy to be remembered. With troops wholly undisciplined, and against an enemy ten times more numerous than themselves, so fear- lessly contending, is. a circumstance so flattering) that we cannot wish our country better, than that the fut-ure defenders of her honour, and violated rights, may be as sensibly alive to their duty The British had now retired to Pensacola, to dis- pose of their wounded, refit their vessels, and be ready, aa soon as circumutances would pennit, tc 180 Lire OF QESE&Ah JACKSON. make, peihaps, another descent, on some less guard ed point. So long as this, their only place of refuge on the soutliern coast, was left in their possession, it was impossible to calculate on the consequences that might arise. The commanding general enter- tained a suspicion that this was merely a feint, and that the object of their wishes, ho soon as a suffi cient force should arrive, would be New Orleans At this place he believed his presence most mate- rial, to guard the important passes to the city, and to concert some plan of general defence. Jackson and his government had ever viewed this subject in very different lights : they were not willing to risk any act which might involve the pos- sibility of a contest with Spain, for the sake of re- moving what they considered an unimportant griev- ance : he thought it of more serious import, and did not believe it could afford even a pretext for rupture between the two nations. If Spain, through her agents, gave assistance to our enemy, or en- couraged a power with wliom she was at peace to be thus annoyed, she deserved to be placed herself on the list of enemies, and treated accordingly. If, however, Great Britam, taking advantage of the defenceless state of her province, claimed to have free egress, in exclusion of her authority, she could have no well-founded cause of complaint against the injured power, which should claim to hold it until such time as, by bringing a sufficient force, sne might be in a situation to support her ncutra' ity, and enforce obedience. Upon either ground, he believed it might be sufficiently justified. There was one, however, on wiiich it could be placed, where he well knew notliing could result, beyond bi^ own injury ; and on tliis issue he was willing to Un OP GENERAL ACKSON. 18 i troat it If any complaint should be made, his gov ernment, having never extended to him any author ity, might, with propriety, disavow the act ; and, by exposing him to punishment, would offer an atonement for the outrage ; and Spain, in justice, could demand no more. The attack on Mobile Point was a confirmation of his previous conjectures, as to the views of the enemy ; and from tliat mo- ment he determined to advance and reduce Pensa cola, throw a sufficient force into the Barrancas, hold them until the principles of right and neutral- ity were better respected, and rest the measure on his own responsibility. Believing this the only course calculated to assure ultimate security* he aecided with firmness, and resolved to execute his intentions so soon as General Coffee should arrive, with the volunteers, from Tennessee. It was now generally accredited, tnat a very considerable force would shortly sail from England, destined to act against some part of the United States ; where, none could tell ; rumour fixed its destination for New Orleans. The importance of this place was well known to our enemy ; it was the key to the entire commerce of the western country. Had a descent been made a few months before, it might have been taken with all imagina- ble ease ; but the British had indulged the belief, that they could possess it at any time, witho&t dif- ficulty. England and France having ended their long-pending controversy, it was presumed that the French people of Louisiana, alive to tlie great benefits the 7aiglish had conferred upon their na live country, — benefits that prostrated her liberty and which have sunk her, perhaps, in eternal sla- very,— would, on their first appearance, hail their dc IH2 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON, liverers, and become their vassals. Independent of this, they imagined the black population would af ford them tJie means of exciting insurrection, and deluging the country in blood. Whether a resort to this kind of warfare, which involves the deepest wretchedness, and equally exposes to ruin the in- nocent as the guilty, — the female as the soldier,— should be sanctioned by a nation professing a high sense of moral feeling ; or whether a nation that adopts such a system merits countenance from the civilized world, are questions on which we should not fear the decision even of an Englishman, could he but divest himself of that animosity which, from infancy, he learns to entertain for the Americans. The expected re-enforceraents were announced. General Coffee with his brigade had arrived at the Cut-off, no* far from Fort St. Stephens, on the Mo- bile river. In addition to the force with which ho commenced his march, he had been strengthened by the arrival of otfiers, who had overtaken him at this place ; so that his whole number was now about twenty-eight hundred. To make the necessary ar- rangements for an immediate march, General Jack- ion, on the 26th day of October, repaired to Coffee's camp. A dependence on himself to further the objects of the government, and the cause of the country, had been his constant lot from the com- mencement of his military career ; and a similar resort, or failure to the enterprise, was now to be assayed. Money was wanted — the quarter-masters were destitute of funds, and the government credit was insufficient to procure the necessary means to change the position of an army: thus situated, with his own limited firnds, and Joans effected on bif respoiuiibility, he succeeded in carrying hia LIF8 OF GENERAL JACKSON. IS8 plum into effect, and in hastening his an ay w the place of its destination. The difficulty of subsisting cavalry on tne route rendered it necessary that part of the brigade should proceed on foot. Although they had volun- teered in the service as mounted men, and expected tliat no different disposition would be made of them, yet they cheerfully acquiesced in the order : and one thousand, abandoning their horses to subsist as they could on the reeds that grew along the river bottoms, prepared to commence the march. Being supplied with rations for the trip, on the 2d day of November the line of march was taken up, and Pensacola was reached on the 6th. The British and Spaniards had obtained intelligence of their approach and intended attack ; and every thing was in readiness to dispute their passage to the town. The forts were garrisoned, and prepared for resistance ; batteries formed in the pnncipal streets ; and the British vessels moored withm the bay, and so disposed as to command the main en- trances which led into Pensacola. The American army, consisting of the greater part of Coffee's brigade, the regulars, and a few Indians, io ail about three thousand men, had ar- rived within a mile and a half of this rallying point for our enemies, and formed their encampment. Before any final step was taken, the general con- cluded to make a further application to the gov- ernor, and to learn of him what course at the present moment he would make it necessary for nim to pursue. To take possession of Pensacola, and dislodge the British, was indispensable • to do it under such circumstances, however, u shouli impress the minds of the Spaniarda with a eonno- 16 184 UFB OP 6ENi::KAL JACKSON. Hon, that the invasion of their territory wu a meaaure resorted to from necessity, not choicOj and from no disposition to violate their neutra rights, was believed to be essential. It was ren- dered the more so, on the part of Jackson, because a measure of his own, and not directed by his gov- ernment. Previously, he determined once more to try the effect of negotiation, that he might ascertain correctly how far the governor felt disposed to preserve a good understanding between the two governments. Major Piere, of the forty-fourth regiment, was accordingly despatched with a flag, to disclose the objects intended to be attained by the visit, and to require that the different forts, Barrancas, St. Rose, and St Michael, should be immediately surren- dered, to be garrisoned by the United States, until Spain, by furnishing a sufficient force, might be able to protect the province, and preserve unim- paired her neutral «haractor. He was charged by the general with a candid statement of his views, and instructed to require of the governo? a deci- sive declaration of the course intended. This mission experienced no very favourable re- sult. Major Piere, on approaching St. Michael's, was fired on. and compelled to return. Whether this were done by the Spaniards themselves, or by their allies and friends, was not a material inquiry The Spanish flag was displayed on the fort, and under it the outrage was committed ; tliough it was & fact well ascertained, that, untU the day before, the British flag had been also associated : this, on the arrival of Jackson, had been removed, and the joloura of Spain left, which were designed to afford l^tectioo to oar enemies, and a pretext for every LIFE OF e£N£RAL JACKSOIf. 18^ injury This conduct, so unprovoked, and so di- rectly in opposition to the principles of civilized warfare, might have well determined the general to abstain from further forbearance, and to proceed mimediately to the accomplishment of his views but a consciousness, that although the reduction of this place was required by circumstances of the liighest necessity, yet, fearing it might be blazoned to his prejudice, and particularly that it might be- come a cause of national difficulty, he was prompted to act with every possible caution. Determining, therefore, to understand the governor fully, previous- ly to proceeding to extremities, he again despatched a letter to him, not by any of his officers, — for, after such perfidy, he was unwilling, and felt it unsafe, to risk them, — but by a Spanish corporal, who had been taken on the route the day before. By him it was required to be known, why the former application which had been made, instead of being met with a becoming spirit of conciliation, had been insulted. In answer, he received from the governor a confir mation of tlie opinion he had previously entertained, that what had been done was not properly chargea- ble on him, but the English ; that he had no agency in the transaction of which he complained, and assured him of his perfect willingness to receive any overtures he might be pleased to make. This was joyful tidings ; and no time was to be lost in meeting the offer. If negotiation should place in his hands the different fortresses, before informa- tion of it could be had by the British shipping lying in the bay, the outward chaniiel would be effectually stopped, and the means of their escape entirely cut off. Major Piere was sent off, at a late hour of the light, to detail to the governor the ii$ UFI OP OimiKAL lACESOll. roMOiM wkick had rendered the prevent deecent proper; and to insist on the conditions already noticed, as alone calculated to assure safety to the United States, and give protection to the provinces of Florida. He was particularly instructed to im- press on his consideration the most friendly senti- ments, and to assure him that a re-surrender would be made so soon as Spain, by the arrival of a suf- ficient force, could protect her territory from the inroads of a power at war with the United States ; and which, through an opening thus afforded to a violation of the neutrality of Spain, was enabled) and had already done her considerable injury. In his communication to the governor, he remarks, " 1 come not as the enemy of Spain ; not to make war, but to ask for peace ; to demand security for my country, and that respect to which she is entitled, and must receive. My force is sufficient, and m} determination taken, to prevent a future repetitioo of the injuries she has received. I demand, there fore, the possession of the Barrancas, and other for tifications, with all your munitions of war. If de livered peaceably, the whole will be receipted for» and become the subject of future arrangement by our respective governments ; while the property, laws, and religion of your citizens shall be respect- ed. But if taken by an appeal to arms, let the blood of your subjects be upon your own head. I will not hold myself responsible for the conduct of my ei: raged soldiers. One hour is given you for delib eration. when your determination must be had.** The council was called, and tlie propositions made considered, when the conclusion was taken U^a tney could not be acceded to. As soon a^ the an- swer was received. Bhowintr that nothina neaceablv UFI OW OENIRAL JACE«OI|. li^ conld be effected, Jackaon resolved to urge hii irmv forward ; and, immediately commencing his march, proceeded to the accomplishment of his object, de- termined to effect it, in despite of consequences. Early on the morning of the 7th, the army was in motion. To foster the idea, that he would march and reach the town along the road on which he was encamped, a detachment of five hundred men was sent forward, with orders to show themselves in this direction, that they might deceive the enemy ; while, urging rapidly on, with the strength of his army, he was gaining Pensacola at a different point. This stratagem succeeded : the British, looking for his appearance where the detachment was seen, had formed their vessels across the bay, and were wait- ing his approach, with their guns properly bearing : nor had they an intimation to the contrary, until our troops were descried upon the beach^ on the east side, where they were at too great a distance to be annoyed from the flotilla ; and whence, pushing for- ward, they were presently in the streets, and under cover of the houses. One company, from the third regiment of infan- try, with two field pieces, formed the advance, led by Captain Laval, whvi fell, severely wounded, while, at the head of his command, he was charging a Spanish battery, formed in the street. The left, col- umn, composed of the regular troops, the third, thirty-ninH.i, and forty-fourth regiments, headed by Majors Woodruff and Piere, formed the left, next che bay. The dismounted volunteers proceeded down the street, next the regulars : Coffee's brig- ade next, on their right : the Mississippi dragoons, commanded by Colonel Hindi, and the Choctaw In dians by Major Blue, of the thirty-ninth, advanced 16* 188 Lira or gbneral jackjon on the extreme right of all. Captain Laval's party, although deprived of their leader, moved forward, and, at the point of the bayonet, took possession of the battery in their front. So quickly was this ef- fected, that the Spaniards had it in their power to make but three fires, before they were forced to abandon it. From behind the houses and garden fences were constant volleys of musketry discharg- ed, until the regulars, arriving, met the Spaniards, and drove them from their positions. The gover- nor, trembling for the safety of his city, and remem- bering the declaration of the general, that, if driven to extremes, he should not hold himself responsi- ole for his enraged soldiers, hastened, bearing a flag In his hand, to find the commander to stay the car- nage. He was met by Colonels Williamson and Smith, at the head of the dismounted troops, when, with faltering speech, he entreated that mercy might- be extended, and promised to consent to whatevei terms might be dema'nded of him. General Jackson had stopped for a moment at tlie place where Laval had fallen, and was at this time in the rear. Receiving information thai an offer had been made by the governor to comply with every demand heretofore made on him, he has- tened to the intendant house, and obtained a confir mation of what had previously been communicated 10 him, that the town arsenals, and munitions of war, and in fact whatever was required, should im- niediutely be surrendered. Tiie British vessels remained in the bay : with the aid of their boats, by which a nearer situation was obtained, they continued to fire upon our troops, as, passing along the principal streets, they could {jet them in the range of their guns. Lieutenant Un OP GENERAL JACKSON. 189 Call, perceiving some of their boats attempting to occupy a more advantageous position, advanced to tlie beach with a single piece of artillery, where, suddenly unmasking himself from a hill, uncovered, he commenced a brisk and well-aimed fire, which drove them back to a respectful distance. No time was lost by General Jackson in procur- ing what was considered by him of vital impor- tance — the surrender of the forts. Although great- er benefits would have been derived, had the suc- cess of negotiation placed them privately in his hands, without its being previously known to his enemies, yet even now their possession was not to be neglected. Their occupancy was necessary still to his own security — to check any design that might be in agitation. What was the force oppos- ed to him, at what moment re-enforcements might appear off Pensacola, and thereby give an entire change to things, as they at present existed, were matters of which no certain idea could be formed. To possess the Barrancas was a consideration of the first importance ; still, until the town and its fortresses were secured, it was improper to with- draw the army. Notwithstanding the assurances given by the gov- ernor, that all differences would be accommodated, and every thing insisted on agreed to, Fort St. Mi- chael was still withheld. Captain Dinkins was or- dered to take post on Mount St. Bernard, form his batteries, and reduce it. He was in a situation to act, when the commandant, Colonel Sotto, ordered his flag taken down, and the fort to be surrendered. It is curious to observe the treachery of the Spaniards, and the unpardonable method they took to indulge their spleen. Previously to striking hif IfO LIFB A** GENERAL lACt, OH. coiOurs, the commandant at St. Michikcl had uked permission to discharge his guns ; to this there could be no objection, and the iudulgence was readi- ly extended ; but, faithless and cowardly, be level- led and fired his pieces, charged with grape, at a party of dragoons and Choctaw Indians, who were at a small distance, which killed three horses and wounded two men. Such unpardonable conduct, independent of other injuries already noticed, might have justified any treatment ; the destruction of the garrison would not have been an unmerited chas- tisement. The general was on his way to Mount Bt. Bernard, where his artillery was planted, when ae received intelligence of what had been done. He determined no longer to confide in persons so faithless, and whose only object seemed to deceive, but at once to make the sword the arbiter between them. His cannon were already turned towards the fort, the resolution taken to batter it down, when it was announced, by the ofiicer he had \et\ in command at Pensacola, that the capitulation had been agreed on, and a surrender would be made in half an hour. Sensible of the delicate situation in which he was placed, he forbore to obey that un- pulse their unwarrantable conduct had so justly ex- cited and forthwith despatched Captain Dinkins to insist on an immediate delivery ; at the same time giving him directions to carry it by storm if the de- mand was not instantly complied with. Difficulties promised thus peaceably to terminate The day was far spent, and the general greatly in- disposed ; until the next morning, no step could be taken to obtain possession of the Barrancas. On the credit of Uie governor's promises, made first on r entrance into the town, the principal part of UFB or GENERAL JACKSON. 191 the anny had heen ordered a »hcrt distanc out. Understanding, at St, Bernard, that what had been required would be done, and that no fiirtliei deiay would be met, the general had set out to t.ie en- campment, leaving Major Piere behind, with a suf- ficient force to preserve every thing in safety and quietness. He was astonished, early in tho morn- ing, to learn, that the officer despatched to St. Mi- chael, the preceding evening, had, on his arrival, been threatened to be fired on by Colonel Sotto ; who, however, yielded possession, on being made to understand, that, if the fort were not delivered ip- stantly, it would be carried forcibly, and the garn- 8011 put to the sword. A capitulation was now agreed on : Pensacola and the different fortresses were to be retained, until Spain could better main- tain her authority ; while the rights and privileges of her citizens were to be respected. Every thing was in readiness, on the following day, to take possession of Barrancas Fort. The faithless conduct of yesterday had determined Jack- son on the executioa of his plans ; nor longer to ooniide in Spaniards' promises, but, on reaching the place, to carry it by force, if it were not immediate- ly surrendered. Major Piere was ordered to give the command of the city to Colonel Hayne, and re- port hmiself at camp, to accompany him on the march ; previously, however, to retiring, to require of the governor to execute an authority to the com- mandant of the fort, to deliver it ; and, in the event he would not comply immediately, to arrest him, and every public officer, and hold tliem as prisoners The order for its delivery had been signed, and the line of march ready to be taken up, to receive it peiceably, if the order would effect it, forcibly, ii IM Lira OF GENERAL JACKBOPf. not, when a tremendous explosion in that direction, followed by two others, in quick succession, excited the apprehension that all was destroyed. To as- certain, certainly, whence the noise had proceeded. Major Gales, a volunteer aid, was despatched, with two hundred men, to obtain inteUigence. He pres^ ently returned, and confirmed what had been pre- viously apprehended, that the fort was blown up, and that the British shipping had retired from th? bay. Although repairing this place might be produc- tive of numerous advantages, yet, as the act was unauthorized by his government, Jackson felt him- self restrained from incurring any expense for the re-establishment of what had been thus treacher- ously destroyed. Though disappointed in the ob- iect he had in view, he believed that some of the benefits expected would result. This strong hold, which had so long given protection to the southern hostile savages, and where they had been excited to acts of cruelty, was assailed, and the Indiana taught that even here safety was not to be found. The valour of his troops had impressed on the minds of the Spaniards a respect for the character of his country, which, hitherto, they had not entertained ; and the British, by being dislodged, were prevent- ed from maturing those plans, which were to give efficacy to their future operations against the south- ern section of the Union : but, as the means of oiaintaining and defending it were destroyed, it was unnecessary to think of attempting to hold it It was accordingly concluded to re-deliver all tha: had been surrendered, and retire to Port Montgomery. Jnckson was the more disposed to adopt this course (Vom a belief that the British who bad sailed out of UPB or OBNffiUL lACKsoir. Ids the bay, would probably mab^ their way to Port Bowyer, and, with a knowledge of the principal strength of the army bei^.^g away, seek to aim a blow somewhere on the Mot ile. An express was immediately hastened to Colonel Sparks, who had toeen left in command at this place, announcing what nad trtnspireJ, suggesting apprehensions for his safety, and notifying him, in the event of an attack, to endeavour to parry the danger until the regular troops should arrive to support him. Two days after entering the town, he abandoned lU Previously to retiring, he wrote to Governor Manrequez; and, after stating to him the causes which had induced him, justifiably, as he believed, to enter his territory, he thus concluded : " As the Barrancas and the adjacent fortresses have been surrendered to and blown up by the British, con- trary to the good faith I had reposed in your prom- ises, it is out of my power to guard your neutrali- ty, as otherwise I should have done. The enemy has retreated ; the hostile Creeks have fled for safe- ty to the forest ; and I now retire from your town, leaving you to re-occupy your forts, and protect the rights of your citizens." Our loss in this expedition was quite inconsider- able. The left column alone met resistance, and had fifteen or twenty wounded — none killed. It appears strange, that three heavy pieces of artille- ry, charged with grape and canister, and three times fired against a column advancing through a nar- row street, should not have eflTected greater m- jury. Of the number wounded was Lieutenant Flournoy, a promising young man, who, having gone out as a volunteer, was, on account of hi« merit, promoted to a lieutenancy in the forty-fourth Unit3d 194 UFK OF OENBRAL JACKSON. States* regiment By a cannon shot he lott hU \eg. Captain Laval, being too dangerously injured to be removed, was confided by the general to the clem- ency of the governor of Pensacola, who humanely gave him that attention his situation reqliired. The Indian warriors, who had taken refuge in Pensacola, finding themselves abandoned by the British, fled across the country, and sought safety on the Appalachicola : many were afforded shelter on board the shipping, from which they were short- ly afterwards landed, to prosecute the war in their own way. Jackson determined they should have no respite from danger, so long as a warlike atti- tude was preserved. Recent events had shown them, that neither the valour of their allies, nor their own exertions, could afford them protection. He believed it an auspicious moment to pursue them m their retreat ; increase still further their appre- hensions ; and effectually cut up that misplaced con- "idence, which had already well nigh proved their ruin. Understanding that those who had been car- ried off from Pensacola had been landed on the Ap- palachicola, and a depot of all necessary supplies there established, Major Blue, of the thirty-ninth regiment, was sent off, on the 16th, at the head of a thousand mounted men, with orders to follow, and destroy any of their villages he might find on his route. General M'Intosh, of the Georgia militia, then in the Creek country, was apprized of the des- tination, and directed to co-operate, that the sav- ages might be dispersed, before they should have it in their power to attempt hostilities against the frontiers. Having effected this object, they were ordered to repair to Mobile, to aid in its c efence. Un or eiNIRAL lACKiOK. Iti Shortly after the American army had retired, the Spaniards commenced rebuilding Forts Barrancas and St. Rose. Anxious to regam that confidence they had justly forfeited, the British offered their services to assist in the re -establishment. This of- fer was refused, and an answer returned by the governor, that, when assistance was in fact needed, he would make application to hia friend General Jackson. There was nothing now so much desired by the general, as to be able to depart for New Orleans where he apprehended the greatest danger. He had already effected a partial security for Mobile, and the inhabitants on its borders ; and such as he believed might be preserved, by proper vigilance in those who were left in command. He determined to set out on the 22d for the Mississippi ; and, by his exertions, seek to place the country in such a situation for defence as the means within his reach would permit. His health was still delicate which almost wholly unfitted' him for the duties he had to encounter ; but his constant expectation of a large force appearing soon on the coast impelled him to action. Added to the fatigues incident to his station, he as yet had no brigadier-general in his district to relieve him of many of those duties which he had neither time nor bodily strength to meet General Winchester had been ordered to join him. He had not yet arrived, but. was daily look- ed for. In expectation of his approach, Jackson was making every necessary arrangement for in- vesting him with the command of Mobile, and for his own departure. Colonel Hayne, the inspector- general, was despatched to the mouth of the Missis- sippi, to examine whether in that direction there 17 194 ura OP aiNiKAL iackmmi. were any eligible eite, where, by erecting batter- ies, the river might be commanded, and an accent prevented, if through this route attempted. Gene- ral Coffee and Colonel Hinds, with the dragoons from the territory, were ordered to march with their commands, and take a position as convenient to New Orleans as they could obtain a sufficiency of forage to recruit their horses. Every thing bemg arranged, and intelligence received that General Winchester had reached the Alabama river, Jack- son, on the 22d day of November, left Mobile for the city of New Orleans, where he arrived on the 1st of December; and where his head-quarters were, fo^ the present, established. UTB OF GENERAL ACKSOlf. 197 CHAPTER VIII. heiksoi^s correspondence tmth the governor of Louisiana. -His aadress to the citizens. — Militia pom Tennessee and Kentiu:k% advance ; and general plans adopted for defence.-^Phm for Jill ing delinqt/encies in the army. — Biitish shipjnng anHve on ih.e coast. — Loss of t'lie Sea Horse. — Battle on the lake, and loss Oj the gun-boats. — Jackson reviews the militia. — His address to them. — Detention of his fag. — Anecdote. — Expresses sent to Otnerils Cofee and Carrou. — Declaration of martial law ai New Orleans. — The Bi-itish effect a landing, and Jackson pre- pares to meet them. General Jackson was now on a new theatre : the time had arrived to call forth all his energies. His military career, from its commencement, had been obstructed, but far greater difficulties were now ris- ing. His body worn down by exhaustion, with a mind alive to the apprehension, that the means given him would not satisfy his own wishes and the expects tions of his country, were circumstances calculated to depress him. He was without sufficient strength or preparation to attempt successful opposition against well-trained troops, which were expected at some unprepared point. Louisiana, he well knew, was ill supplied with arms, and contained a mixed population, of different tongues, who, perhaps, felt not a sufficient attach- ment for the soil or government, to be mduced to defend them. No troops, arms or ammunition had yet descended from the states of Kentucky and Tennessee. His only reliance for defence, if sud- denly assailed, was on a few regulars, the volun- teers of General Coffee, and such troops as th« itete could furnish. What might be the final re 198 LUn OP GENERAL JACKSON. •ult of things was not a matter difficult to conjee ture. His principal fears at present were, that Mobile might fall, the left bank of the Mississippi be gained, all communication with the western states cut off, and New Orleans be thus unavoidably re- duced. Although agitated by such forebodings, he breathed his fears to none. Closely locking alj apprehensions in his owTn breast, he appeared con- i>tantly serene, and as constantly endeavoured to impress a general belief, that the country could and would be defended. While engaged in his operations on the Mobile, and even while at Fort Jackson, he had kept up a correspondence with the governor of Louisiana, urging him to the adoption of such measures as might give security to the state. From his informa- tion, he felt assured, that little reliance was to be placed on the great body of the citizens ; and that, to gain any decisive advantages from their services, it would be necessary to abandon temporizing pol- icy, and pursue a course steady and unwavering. Many of the inhabitants indulging a belief that Florida would be restored to Spain, had led welj designing men astray; while Englishmen, Span- iards, and other foreigners, feeling no attachment to the government under which they lived, were ready to surrender it to any power. The requisition made had been badly filled ; many had refused, af- ter being drafted, to enter the ranks. At so event- ful a crisis, it was painful to discover so great a want of union, and disregard of duty Governor Claiborne had been addressed on this subject: "I regret," said Jackson, " to hear of the discontents of your people: they must not exist. Whoever is not for us, is against uj. Those who are Uri or GENERAL MCKEON. IfS drafted miMt be compelled to the ranks, or puniih ed : it if no time to balance : the country miut be defended ; and he who refuses to aid, when called on, must be treated with severity. To repel the danger with which we are assailed, requires all our energies, and all our exertions. With union on our side, we shall be able to drive our invaders back to the ocean. Summon all your energy, and guard every avenue with confidential patroles, for spies and traitors are swarming around. Numbers will be flocking to your city, to gain information, and corrupt your citizens. Every aid in your power must be given to prevent vessels sailing with pro- visions. By us the enemy must not be fed. Let none pass ; for on this will depend our safety, until we can get a competent force in the field, to oppose attack, or to become the assailants. We have more to dread from intestine, than open and avowed ene- mies: but vigilance on our side, and all will be safe. Remember, our watch word is victory or deatli. Our country must and shall be defended. We will enjoy our liberty, or perish in the laal ditch." He forwarded an address to the people of Louisi ana, to excite them to a defence of their rights and Uberties, and to raise in their minds an abhorrence of an enemy. He pointed out the course the pres- ent crisis required them to adopt, and entreated them not to be lured from their fidelity. " Your government, Louisianians, is engaged in a just and honourable contest, for the security of your individual, and her national rights. The only country on earth, where man enjoys freedom, where ito ble88iag<3 are alike extended to the poor and 17* iOO uni or oenebal iackson. neb, calls on you to protect her f)rom the gnap'mg usurpation of Britain: — she will not call in vain I know that every man, whose bosom beats high at the proud title of freeman, will promptly obey her voice, and rally round the eagles of his country resolved to rescue her from impending danger, or nobly to die in her defence. He who refuses to defend his rights, when called on by his govern- ment, deserves to be a slave — deserves to be punished as an enemy to his country — a friend to her foes.*^ The people of Louisiana were gradually turned to consider the contest, in which it was expected they were to be engaged, that they might be pre- pared to meet it, when necessary. Preparations for collecting, in sufficient strength, to repel an in- vasion, when it should be attempted, had been car- ried actively forward. The fiat of the secretary of war had been issued to the governors of the ad- joming states ; and 'Jackson had long since anx- iously pressed them to hasten the execution of the order, and push their forces to the place of danger The ardour felt by the governor of Tennessee rendered any incentive unnecessary. He was well aware of the importance of activity, and had used all the authority of his office to call the requisition forth, and have it in readiness. Governor Shelby, of Kentucky, had been no lest vigilant. The necessity of despatch in military matters, and the advantages resulting from it, in his youth and more advanced age, he had learned in the field of battle. The troops from his state were immediately organized, placed under the com> ■MUid of Major-General Thomas, and directed ^ LIFE or UEMfiRAL JACKSON. 20 1 proceed down the Ohio.* It may be esteen ed a circumstance of good fortune, that Shelby should have been the chief magistrate of Kentucky ; a state possessing ample resources, and which might have slumbered in inaction, but for the energy of him. He did not remain contented with a dis- charge merely of those duties which were imposed on him by his office ; but, feeling the ardour of his youth revived, excited his citizens, and inspirited them by his own example. The promptitude with which they crowded to the American standard, at tlie first danger, enduring cold, hunger, and privu- tion, should be remembered, and entitle her citizens to the gratitude of the country. William Carroll, who, on the promotion of Jack son in the army of the United States, had been ap- pointed a major-general of Tennessee militia, was to command the requisition intended to be marched from the state. He had issued orders to his divi- sion, and, on the 19th of November, twenty-five hundred of the yeomanry of the state appeared at Nashville, and, in eight days, embarked on board their boats for New Orleans. To the industry of General Carroll every respect is due ; for, to his fortunate arrival, as will be seen hereafter, is to be attributed the reason that success did not result to the enemy, in his first assault, or that Louisiana escaped the impending danger. The militia, now organized, from two states, were respectable for their numbers, and were com- * VVben this requisition was ready to proceed, the state of th« qjarter-master's department was discovered to be wholly made quate to those outfits and supplies necessary to its departure Thus situated, individuals of me state came forward, pled^ I'joir funds, and enabled it to aulvance SC'S urn of general jacksom. manded bj officers who carried with them entir6 confidence In bravery, they were not surpasted i yet they were without experience or discipline, and indifferently armed. Many had procured rauaketa and bayonets ; though the greater part of them had arms capable of rendering little or no service ; while some had none at all. To remedy their want of discipline was attended with some difficulty, on account of the slender means afforded for instruc- tion, while, in boats, they were descending the river. Carroll's anxiety, however, for the respectable ap- pearance of his troops, and a still stronger desire entertained, that they might be in a situation for immediate action, if necessity, on his arrival, should require it, led him to seize even on the limited opportunities for improvement. Although General Jackson had obtained his sue cesses heretofore with troops of this description, yet he was far from entertaining a belief they could be relied on for manoBuvring in an open field, against troops inured to war. None knew better the point of exertion -to which militia could be strained. In a letter to the secretary of war, of the 20th of Novem- ber, 1814, he observes, " Permit me to suggest a plan, which, on a fair experiment, will do away or lessen the expenses, under the existing mode of call- ing militia forces into the field. Whenever there happens to be a deficiency in the regular force, in any particular quarter, let the government determine on the necessary number: this should be apportioned aiEong the different states, agreeably to their respec- ti/e representations, and called into service for, and liuring the war. The quota wanted will, in my opinion, be soon raised from premiums offered by tboae who are aubject to militia duty, rather than be Ufl op GENERAL JACKSON 208 hiraMed by repeated drafts. In the mean time. Int the present bounty, given by the government, be also continued. If this be done, I will ensure that an effective force shall soon appear in every quarter, amply sufficient for the reduction of Canada, and to drive all our enemies from our shores." Such were the course of things, and such the plans in progress for the safety of the country, when the general reached New Orleans. The legislature of Louisiana had for some weeks been in session ; and, through the governor's com- munication, informed of the situation, condition and strength of the country, and of the necessity of calling all its resources into operation ; but, balanc- ing in their decisions, and uncertain of the best course to be pursued, they, as yet, had resolved upon nothing. The arrival of Jackson, however, produced a new aspect in affairs. His activity in preparation, and his reputation as a brave and skil- ful commander, had turned all eyes towards him, and inspired even the desponding with confidence. The volunteer corps of the city were reviewed, and a visit, in person, made to the different forts, to ascertain their capacity for defence, and the re- liance that might be had on them to repel the ene- my's .advance. Through the lakes large vessels could not pass : should an approach be attempted through this route, in their barges, it might be opposed ,by the gun-boats which guarded this pas- sage ; but if, unequal to the contest, they should be captured, it would give timely information of a descent, which might be resisted at their landing, and before any opportunity could be had of execut« ing fully their designs. Up the Mississippi, how- ever, wu looked upon as the most pro(')able paM, 904 UPB OP GENERAL SkCKMOM* through which might be made an attempt to retcb the city ; and here were in progress suitable prep' t rations for defence. We have already noticed, that Colonel Hayne nad been despatched from Mobile with directions to view the Mississippi near its mouth, and report it any advantageous position could be found for the erection of batteries ; and whether the re-establish- ment of the old fort at the Balize would command the river, in a way to prevent its being ascended. That it could not be relied on for this purpose, the opinions of military men had already declared General Jackson was disposed to respect the de- cisions of those who were entitled to confidence , yet, in matters of great importance, it formed no part of his creed to attach his faith to the state- ments of any, where, the object being within his reach, it was in his power to look to the fact, and satisfy himself. Trusting implicitly in Colonel Hayne as a military man, he had despatched him thither to examine how far it was practicable to obstruct and secure this channel. His report was confirmatory of the previous information received, that it was incapable, from its situation, of effecting any such object. Fort St. Philip was now resorted to as the lowest point on the river where tlie erection of a fortifica- tion could be at all serviceable. The general had returned to New Orleans on the 9th, from a visit to this place, which he had ordered to be repaired. The commanding officer was directed to remove every combustible material without the fort; to have two additional platforms immediately raised; and the embrasures so enlarged that the ordnance mii^bt have the greatest possible sweep upon theif Un OP GENERAL iACSlON. 105 circles, and bo brought to bear on any object within their range, that might approach either up or down the river. At a small distance below, the Mississip- pi, changing its course, left a neck of land, in the bend, covered with timber, which obstructed the view. From this point down to where old Fort Bourbon stood, on the west side, the growth along the bank was ordered to be cut away, that the shot from St. Philip, ranging across this point of land, might reach an approaching vessel before she should be unmasked from behind it. On the site of Bour- bon was to be thrown up a strong work, defended by five twenty-four pounders, which, with the fori above, would be calculated to expose an enemy to a cross fire, for half a mile. A mile above St Philip was to be established a work, which, in con- junction with the others, would effectually command the river for two miles. At Terre au Boeuf, and at the English Turn, twelve miles below the city, were also to be taken measures for defence ; where i1 was expected by Jackson, with his flying artillery and fire ships, he would be able certainly to arrest the enemy's advance. This system of defence, properly established, he believed, would ensure se- curity from any attack in this direction. Fort St Philip, with the auxiliary batteries above and belov^ it, would so concentrate their fires, that an enemy could never pass without sufiering greatly, and, per- haps, being so shattered that they would fall ai. easy prey to those defences which were still higher up the river. The essential difficulty was to have them speedily finished. On returning, he hastened to apprize the governor of his views, and of his arrangements, and entreated him to aid m their furtherance. It was proposed to submit 'U to the 206 UFB OP GENERAL JACKSON. consideration of the legislature, and to prevail, d possible, with the planters to furnish their slaves, by whom, alone, such work could, in so insalubrious a climate, be safely executed. "If what is pro- posed be performed," said he, "I will stand pledged that the invaders of your state shall never, through this route, reach your city." He desired to be in- formed, early, of the success of the application, and to know how far the legislature would be dis- posed to extend their fostering care to the objects suggested ; that, in the event of failure, he might have recourse to such resources as were within his reach. " But," added he, " not a moment is to be lost. With energy and expedition, all is safe : — delay, and all is lost." The plans of operation and defence were pro- jecting on an extensive scale. The only objects of fear were the disaffected who infested the city . and to these, after the most mcessant exertions, he had well nigh fallen 'a victim. On Lakes Borgne and Pontchartram an equally strong confidence was had that all would be safe from invasion. Commodore Patterson, who com- manded the naval forces, had executed every order with promptness. Agreeably to instructions from the general, to extend to all the passes on the lakes every protection in his power, he had sent out the gun-boats, under Lieutenant Jones. From their capability to defend, great advantages were calcu- lated to arise ; added to which, the Rigolets, the communication between the two lakes, was defend- ed by Petit Coquille Fort, a strong work, under the command of Captain Newman, which, when acting in conjunction with the gun-boats, it was supposed, would be competent to repe) any aseault Guard? Uri or GENERAL lACKBOlf. 207 ■sd videttes were also posted in different directioaa to giv» the earliest information of every thing that passed. In despite, however, of these precaution ary measures, treachery opened a way, and pointed the entrance of the enemy to a narrow pass, through which they effected a landing, and reached previously to being discovered, the banks of the Mississippi. Such were the measures adopted for the protec- tion of Louisiana against an attack. Information of a considerable force having left England filled with high expectations, the attack on Fort Bow- fer, and the inflammatory proclamations alread} published, with anonymous letters received from persons in the West Indies and Pensacola, tended U} unfold the views of the enemy, and to dissipate every thing of doubt as to their designs. But the dme was at hand when conjecture was giving place to certainty ; when the intentions of the in raders were fully developing themselves, and the fact fairly presented, that Louisiana must fall, and her principal city be sacked, unless the brave men associated to defend her should stand firmly in hei defence. Certain information was at hand of an English fleet being off Cat and Ship Islands, and within a short distance of the American lines, where their numbers were daily increasing. Lieutenant Jones, in conunand of the gun»boata on Lake Borgne, was directed to reconnoitre, and ascertain their disposition and force ; and, in the event they should attempt, through this route, to effect a disembarkation, to retire to the Rigoleta. and there, with his flotilla, contend to the last He remained off Ship Island until the 12th o De- cember, when, understanding the enemy's foreee 18 S03 LIFE OP GENERAL JACKSON. were mxich increased, he thought it advuable to change hu anchorage to a position near Malheur- eux Island This was rendered necessary, because it wafl a safer position, in the event of being attack- ed. Whoever looks upon a map of the country will discover the importance of this place if driven into action with a greatly superior force. This, and Chef Menteur, which unite at the entrance to the lake, and form a narrow channel, constitutes the only pass into Pontchartrain. By reaching it, the gun-boats would be enabled to present a formi- dable opposition. On the 13th, Jones discovered the enemy mov- ing off in his barges towwds Pass Christian. Hia orders left him no discretion as to the place he should fight them. Indeed, his flotilla, although quite inconsiderable, was of too much consequence to the nation, at this juncture, to be risked at all, unless under circumstances giving a decided supe- riority. In no other* way was this to be obtained, than by reaching the point to which he had been ordered : this he endeavoured to effect, as he be- came satisfied of what was intended by their move- ment. Weighing his anchors, with the design of reaching the position referred to in his orders, he discovered it to be wholly impracticable. A strong wind having blown for some days to the east, from the lake to the gulf, had so reduced the depth of waier, that the deepest channels were insufficient to float his little squadron. The oars were resort ed to, but without rendering the least assistance it was immoveable. Everything was thrown over-' board that could be spared, to lighten them ; tU, however, was ineffectual. At this moment of ei- treme peril, the tide coming suddenly in, relieved IdW* OF OINERAL lACKSOW. S09 them f^om the shoal, and they came to anchtv at one o'clock the next morning on the west passage of Malheureux Isle ; where, at day, they discovered the pursuit had been abandoned. At the bay of St. Louis was a small depot of public stores, which had, that morning, been direct- ed, by Jones, to be brought off. Mr. Johnston, on board the Sea Horse, proceeded in tlie execution of this order. The enemy, on the retreat of Jones, despatched three of their barges to capture him , but, unable to effect it, they were driven back. An additional force now proceeded against him ; when a smart action commenced, and the assailants were again compelled to retire with some loss. John- ston, satisfied that it was out of his power to defend himself, and considering it hopeless to attempt unit ing, in face of so large a force, with the gun boats off Malheureux Island, blew up his vessel, burnt the stores, and effected his retreat by land, in conformity to the instructions he had received. A prodigious explosion assured Jones of the proba- ble step that had been taken, and of the execution of the order. Early on the morning of the 14th, the enemy *8 barges, about nine miles to the east, suddenly weighed their anchors ; and, getting under way, proceeded westwardly to the pass, where our gun- boats still lay. The same difficulty experienced yesterday was now encountered. Perceiving the approach of the enemy's flotilla, an attempt waa made to retreat ; but in vain. The wind was en- urely lulled, and a perfect calm prevaOed ; while & strong current, setting to the gulf, rendered every effort to retire unavaDing. No aJtemature waa at hand but a single course was lefl, — to meet and 210 Un OF GENERAL JACKSON Sght thenL At once the resolution was adcpted, to avail themselves of the best position they could obtain, wait their approach, and defend tliemselves, whilst tliere was a hope of success. The line was formed, with springs on the cables, and all were waiting the arrival of a foe, who imagined himself advancing to an easy conquest. The contest, in so open a situation, and against such superior force promised to be very unequal ; yet the bravery which had always characterized our fearless tars in battle, was, on this occasion, not to be tarnished. Forty-three boats, mounting as many camion, with twelve hundred chosen men, well armed, con- stituted the strength of the assailants. Advancing in extended line, thiy were presently in reach ; and, at half after eleven o'clock, commencing a fire, the action soon became general. Owing to a strong current, setting out to the east, two of the boats, numbers 156 and 163, were unable to keep their anchorage, and floated about a hundred yards in advance of the line. This circumstance was un- fortunate ; for, although it was by no means to be calculated, that victory could be attendant on a con- flict where strength and numbers were so dispro- portionate, yet, could the line have been preserved the chances for defence would have been increased, the opportunity more favourable for inflicting injury and crippling the foe, while the period of the con- test would have been protracted. Every momeii this could have been prolonged would have proved advantageous ; for, soon as the wind should spring jp, which yet continued lulled, the boata would be more manageable, and an opportunity aflTorded of retiring from the batUe whtneTor tb« rMult boctixM Lif&fftroufl. in. UT% OF QB^BRAL IACE80II til The enemy, relying on their numbers, advanced in three divisions. Our gun-boats, formed in a Jines were uTider command of Lieutenant Jones, who, on board No. 156, occupied the centre. No. 162 and 163 rested on his \e% under the direction ot Lieutenant Spedden and Sailing-master Ulrich ; on his right were No. 5 and 23, commanded by Sailing master Ferris and Lieutenant M'lver. The centre division of the enemy, led by the senior officer of the expedition. Captain Lockyer, bore down on No. 156, the centre of our line, and, twice attempting to board, was twice repulsed with an immense de- struction of both officers and crew, and loss of two of their boats, which were sunk : one, a seventy four's launch, crowded with men, went down ira mediately along-side of the gun-boat. Jones, being too severely wounded longer to maintain the deck, retired, leaving the command with George Parker, who no less valiantly defended his flag, until, badly wounded, he was also compelled to leave his post ; and soon after the boat was carried. No. 163, though ably defended, was also taken; and the guns of both turned on No. 162 and 5, which also surrendered ; and, last of all, No. 23, commanded by Lieutenant M'lver. Thus in detail was our little squadron, after a conflict of nearly an hour, lost ; a conflict in which every thing was done that gal- lantry could do, and nothing unperformed that duty required ; but it was a disaster which, under all the circumstances, could not be avoided. The calm which' prevailed, and the unwieldy condition of the boats, prevented any management by the oars. The commandant was ably supported by the offi- cers associated with him. Lieutenants Spedden and 18* tlS UFI OF eiNERAL JACKtOM. M*her were wounded ; the former in both antn, and in one so severely as to be compelled to have it amputated ; yet this valiant officer to the last continued his orders : nor did the latter quit for a moment his post. Midshipmen Cauley and Rey- nolds, young men of promise, fell victims to tlie wounds received in this contest. It is unnecessary to take up the time of the reader in commendation of this Spartan band : their bravery will be long remembered, and excite emotions stronger than language can paint. The great disparity of force between the combatants presents a curious result ; that, while the American loss was but ten killed, and thirty-five wounded, that of their assailants was not less than three hundred. The British have never presented any report upon this subject : but. from every information, and from all the attendant circumstances of the battle, it was even believed to have exceeded this number ; of which a large proportion was officers.* The British returned to their shippmg, at Cat Island, with their prisoners, with a convincing argu- ment, to do away the belief which they enter- tained, that, in this section of country, the in- habitants were waiting, with open arms, to receive them. This disaster was announced to General Jackson while on a visit to the lakes, whither he had gone to examine the situation of the different works Boats. Men. Guns * The British had 43 1200 43 The Amerioans 6 182 23 Diffei^ncc 38 1018 20 8o Uiat the disparity in force of boats^ men uid fuat, •tliiit- '•eves— -and nearly two to on*. JJFl or GENERAL JACKSOTf. til in progreu. He heard it with much concern , ftr on it important consequences depended. His fears for the safety of Mobile were much increased. Although he had every confidence in the gallant officer who commanded at Fort Bowyer. he well knew how inefficient were the exertiontr ol a brave man, when assailed by superior strengtn The security of this place was of great importance. His own apprehensions of an invasion here, as af- fecting the interest of the lower country, was tc him a cause of constant uneasiness. He felt con fident, while this point remained safe, so might the country adjacent ; but, if it fell, the Indians would again be excited, the settlements on tlie Mobile and Alabama rivers hacome tributary, and New Orleans be involved in the general ruin. Deeply impressed with the importance of defending this place, he had brought to the view of the secretary of war the necessity of adopting such a course as should place it entirely out of the reach of danger. To efiect this, he proposed that a large frigate, mounting forty-four guns, which, for some cause had been left on the stocks, at Tchifonte, in an un- finished state, should be completed. "Let her,' he remarked, " be placed in the Navy Cove, which will protect the rear of the fort, and, my life upon it, ten thousand troops, and all the British fleet, cannot take the place, nor enter the bay. This will be their point of attack ; if carried, they will penetrate the Indian nation, — there make a stand, and incite the pavages to war, and the slaves to in- surrection and massacre ; — penetrate, if they can, to the left bank of the Mississippi, and arrest aU communication. If they succeed in this, the lowei country falls of course." No nc^ice, however, wm tl4 LIFB OP GENERAL JACKSON. ever taken of Lis admonition^ and nothings done to effect the object proposed. His entire defence and safety rested on the means which he could reach. An express was despatched to General Winches ter, apprizing him of what had happened ; that, ail communication being cut off, he must look to the pn> curing supplies for his army from Tennessee River through the- posts established in the Creek country " The enemy," he continues, " will attempt, through Pass Huron, to reach you : watch, nor suffer your self to be surprised ; haste, and throw sufficient sup plies iuto Fort Bowyer, and guard vigilantly the communication from Fort Jackson, lest it be de- stroyed. Mobile Point must be supported and de- fended at every hazard. The enemy has given ua a large coast to guard ; but I trust, with the smiles of Heaven, to be able to meet and defeat him at every point he may venture his foot upon the land." Increased vigilance was now required to guard the different routes through which they might make cheir progress, and reach the object of their visit Major Lacosto, commanding the battalion of colour ed troops, was ordered, with two pieces of cannon and a sufficient force, to defend the Chef Menteur road, that led from the head of Lake Borgne to New Orleans. In fact, wherever an inlet or creek, of the smallest size, justified the belief, that through It an entrance might be effected, arrangements were made to prevent approach. Through the Rigo- lets was presumed the most probable route the enemy would adventure, that, by gaining Lake Pont- chartrain, a landing might be made above or belcw the city, or at Bayou St. John, directly opposite. This pla. e hi d been confided to Captain New- BUin, of the artil bry. It wu an important pomt. Lire OP GENERAL JACKBON. 216 aa well for the purposes already named, as being a position whence any movement on the lakes could be discovered. On the 22d, it was re-enforced by several heavy pieces of cannon, and an additional supply of men. He was advised by the general of tne consequence attached to it, and that it was not to be inconsiderately yielded ; but that, in the event of his being compelled to abandon it, every thing being properly secured, he was to make good his retreat to Chef Menteur, where he would be covered by an additional force : " But," added he, " you are not to retreat until your judgment is weU convinced that it is absolutely necessary to the very salvation of your command." On the 16th the militia were reviewed by Jack- son. He had perceved, on his arrival at New Orleans, such despondency manifested by the peo- ple, that to remove it had called forth all his exer- tions. His incessant endeavours to have defended every accessible point, and a confidence, constantly evinced, that his resources were commensurate with all the purposes of successfal resistance, had com- pletely undermined those fears, at first so generally indulged. Lest, from the loss which had lately hap- pened on the lakes, a similar state of doubt might be again produced, was the principal cause of ap- pearing before them to-day on review ; to convince them, by his deportment, that the safety of the city was not to be despaired of. He directed an ad- dress to be read to them. It was drawn in Ian guage breathing the warmth of his ov/n feehngs, and well calculated to inspire the same glow to others. He told them they were contending fo" all liiat could render life desirable — " for your property iBd lives } — for those who are dearer than all, your 2^6 UFK OF GENERAL JACKION. wives and children ; — for liberty, without which, country, life and property axe not worth posseaiing E'en the embraces of wives and children are a reproach to the wretch who would deprive them, by his cowardice, of those inestimable blessings. You are to contend with an enemy, who seeks to deprive you of the least of these — who avows a war of desolation, marked by cruelties, lusts, and horrors, unknown to civilized nations." That the hour of attack was not distant was con- firmed by a circumstance which reflects no consid- erable honour on the officer in command of the fleet The day subsequent to the contest on the lakes, Mr. Shields, purser in the navy, had been despatched with a flag to Cat Island, accompanied by Dr. Murrell, for the purpose of alleviating the situation of our wounded, and to eflfect a negotia- tion, by which they should be liberated on parole. We are not aware that such an application militat- ed against the usag'es of war : if not, the flag of truce should have been respected ; nor ought its bearer to have been detained as a prisoner. Ad- miral Cochrane's pretended fear that it was a wile, designed to ascertain his strength and situation, is far from presenting any sufficient excuse for bo wanton an outrage on the rules of war. If thia were apprehended, could not tlie messengers have been met at a distance from the fleet, and ordered back without a near approach.^ Had this been done, no information could have been gained, and the object designed to be secured by the detention would have been answered, without infringing that amicable intercourse between contending armies, which, when diiregarded, opeaa a door to brutaJi UrS OF GBNERAL JACKSON 817 tnd fayage warfare. Finding they did not return. Uie cause of it was at once correctly divined. The British admiral resorted to various means to obUin from these gentlemen information of the strength and disposition of our army ; but so cau- tious a reserve was maintained, that nothing could be elicited. Shields was perceived to be quite deat; BJid, calculating on some advantage to be derived from this circumstance, he and the doctor were placed at night in the green room, where any conver- sation which occurred between them could readily be heard. Suspecting something of the kind, after hav- ing retired, and every thing was seemingly still, they began to speak of their situation— tlie circumstance of their being detained, and of the prudent caution with which they had guarded themselves against communicating any information to the British admi- ral. " But," continued Shields, « how greatly these gentlemen will be disappointed in their expecta- tions ! for Jackson, with the twenty thousand troops he now has, and the re-enforcements from Kentucky, which must speedily reach him, will be able to de- stroy any force that can be landed from these ships." Every word was heard, and treasured ; and, not sup- posing there was any design, or that he presumed hunself overheard, they were beguiled by it, and at once concluded our force to be as great as it waa represented. Early on the 15th, the morning after tlie battle on the lake, expresses v/ere sent up the coast: :n quest of General Coffee, to procuie information of the Kentucky and Tennessee divisions, which, it was hop«^d, were not far distant. In his comrauni- eation to Coffee, the general observes, " You must Mi ilaep until you reach me, or arrive within etrik- tl8 LIFB OF 0SNXBAL JACKSON ing distance. Your accustomed activity is looked for. Innumerable defiles present tliemselves, wjiere your services and riflemen will be all-iraportant An opportunity is at hand, to reap for yourself and brigade the approbation of your country." In obedience to the order he had received at Mo- bile to occupy some central position, where his horses 3ould be subsisted. Coffee had proceeded as far as Sandy Creek, a small distance above Baton Rouge, wJiere he had halted. His brigade on its march had been greatly exposed, and many hardships encoun- tered. The cold season had set in ; and, for twenty days, it had rained incessantly. The waters were raised to uncommon heights, and every creek and bayou was to be bridged or swam. Added to this, their march was through an uncultivated country, but thinly settled, where little subsistence was to be had, and that procured with much difficulty. He had been at this place eight or ten days, when, late on the evening of the, 17th, the express from head- quarters reached him. He lost no time in execut ing the order ; and, directing one of his regiments, which, for the greater convenience of foraging, had encamped about six miles off, to unite with him, he proceeded on his march the instant it arrived. In consequence of innumerable exposures, there tveiBf at this time, three hundred on the sick list. These being lefl, he commenced his advance with twelve hundred and fifty men. The weather con tinned extremely cold and rainy, which preventer iheir proceeding with the celerity the exigency (A the moment required. Coffee, perceiving that th» movement of his whole force, in a body, would oc casion delays, ruinous :o the object, ordered all, wh» vere able to proceed, to advance with him ; whil* Uni OP GINBRAL JACKSON. Sl9 the reft of hiB brigade, under suitable officera, were left to follow as faat as the weak and exhausted condition of their horses would permit. His force, by this arrangement, was reduced to eight hundred men, with whom he moved with the utmost indus- try. Having marched seventy miles the last day, he encamped, on the night of the 19th, within fifteen miles of New Orleans, making in two days a dis- tance of one hundred and twenty miles Continu- ing his advance, early next morning he halted within four miles of the city, to examine the condi tion of his arms, and to learn, in the event the enemy had landed, the relative position of the two armies On inspecting their arms, which consisted princi pally of rifles, two hundred were discovered to be so materially injured by the weather, as to be unfit for service. The advance of Colonel Hinds, from Woodville, with the Mississippi dragoons, was no less expedi- tious ; an active officer, he was, on this, as on all other occasions, at his post, ready to act as circum- stances should require. Having received his or- ders, he effected, in four days, a march of two hun- dred and thirty miles. On the leth. Colonel Hynes, aid-de-camp to Gen- eral Carroll, reached head-quarters, with informa- tion from the general, that he would be present as early as possible ; but that the state of the weather and high and contrary winds, greatly retarded hia progress. To remedy tills, a steam-boat was im- mediately put in requisition, and ordered to proceed up the river to aid him in reaching his destination, without loss of time. He was advised of the necea- wty of hastening rapidly forward ; that the lakea vere in possession of the enemy, and their arrJYal 19 no UFB OF GENERAL JACiLSOll. daily looked for ; " But," continued Jackson, ^ I am esolTod, feeble as my force is, to assail him, on hio f mt landing, and perish sooner than he shall reach the city." Independent of the large force which was de- scending with General Ca,rrolI, his approach wan looked to with additional pleasure, from the circura^ stance of his having with him a boat laden with arms, destined for the defence of the country, and which he had overtaken on his passage down the Mississippi. His falling in with them was fortu- nate ; for, had their arrival depended on those to whom they had been incautiously confided, they might have come too late, and after all danger had subsided ; as was indeed the case witli others for warded from Pittsburg, which, through the unpar- donable conduct of those who had been intrusted with their transportation, did not reach New Or leans until all difficulties had terminated. Great in- convenience was sustained, during the siege, for want of arms to place in the hands of the militia. Great as it was, it would have been increased, even to an alarming extent, but for the accidental circumstance of this boat having fallen into the hands of the Ten- nessee division, which impelled it on, and thereb) produced incalculable advantage. This division left Nashville on the 19th of No- vember. Their exertions entitle them and tlieij commander to every gratitude. But above all is oui gratitude due to that benign Providence, who, hav ing aided in the establishment of our glorious inde pendence, again manifested his goodness and po ve? ill guarding the rights of a country rendered sa:;red by the blood of the virtuous, heretofore shed in it« defence. It rarely, if ever, happens, that the Cum LIFE OF OE.VERAI. JACKSON. 221 berland river admits a passage for boats so early in the season; but torrents of rain descending swelled the stream, and wafted our troops safely to the Mis- sissippi, where all obstructions were at an end While these preparations were progressing, to concentrate the forces within his reach, the gene- ral was turning his attention to ward off any blow that might be aimed before his expected reenforce- ments shou d arrive. Every point capable of being successfully assailed was receiving such additional security as could be given. Patrols and videttes were ranged througli the country, that the earliest intelligence might be had of any intended move ment. The militia of tlie state were called out en masse ; and, through the interference of the legis lature, an embargo on vessels at the port of New Orleans was declared, to afford an opportunity of procuring additional recruits for the navy. Gener al Villery, because an inhabitant of the countiy, ana best understanding the several points on the lakes requiring defence, was ordered, with the Louisiana militia, to search out, and give protection to the dif- ferent passes, where a landing might be effected. To hinder the enemy from obtaining supplies? on shore, a detachment was sent to Pearl Rivei to prevent any parties from landing until the stock could be driven from the neighbourhood The precaution, for some time used, of restricting the departure of any vessel with provisions, undei the operation of the embargo imposed by the legis- lature, had greatly disappointed the expectations of the British, and even introduced diytress into Pen- sacola, whence the Spaniards had been in the habit of procuring their supplies. The governor had so- licited the opening a communication, for the relief LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. of the suffering inhabitants of his province. Jock- son was aware that this appeal to his humanity might be a stratagem, having for its object to aid the enemy. Although the governor, hitherto, had given no flattering evidence, either of his friend- sliip or sincerity, still the statement offered by him might be correct ; and, if so, the neutrality of his country established a well-founded claim to the be- nevolence of the Americans. Balancing between a desire that these people should not be seriously injured, and a fear that the application wds intended for a very different purpose, he determined to err oa the side of mercy, and, as far as possible, relieve their wants. This he directed General Winches- ter, at Mobile, to effect, provided his stock of pro- visions would permit it. It was particularly enjoin- ed on him that the quantity of provisions sent should be small, and be conveyed by water : " For if," said he, " the Spaniards are reaUy in distress, and the supply sent shall be taken by the British, it will ex- cite their just indignation towards them, and erase all friendship, while they will be afforded an addi- tional proof of ours : tlie supply, too, being incon- siderable, even if captured, will prove of no great benefit to our enemy." Jackson's arrangements were well conceived, and rapidly progressing ; but they were still insufficient ; and his own forebodings assured him, that, to ob- tain security, something stronger required to be adopted. That there waa an enemy in the midst of his camp, more to be feared than those who were men- acing from abroad, was, indeed, probable. A stran* ger himaelf, his conjectures might not htve led to the conclusion ; but information received, before and soon after bis arrival, through different chav LIFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. 223 ^els, and particularly from the governor of the state, bad awakened a belief, that the country was filled with disaffected persons. Although he had been in possession of data, sufficiently strong to confirm him m the opinion, no urgent necessity had arisen, ren- dering a resort to rigid measures essential to the general safety. Abundant evidence of prevailing disaffection had been obtained, through Governor Claiborne. In a letter to General Jackson, aflej his return from Pensacola, he observed, " Enemies to the country may blame your prompt and ener- getic measures ; but in the person of every patriot you will find a supporter. I am well aware of the .ax police of this city, and indeed of the whole state, with respect to strangers. I think, with you, that our country is filled ' with traitors and spies.' On this subject, I have written pressingly to the city authorities and parish judges. Some regulations, I hope, will be adopted by the first, and greater vigilance be exercised, in future, by the la^^ter." Never, perhaps, all the circumstances considered, did any general advance to the defence and pro tection of a people, situated in his own country i.vhere greater room was had to distrust the succes. of the event, and believe all efforts hopeless. Whep General Jackson was informed by the governor til at the legislature, instead of discharging with alacrity, diligence, and good faith, the duties which had been confided to them by their constituents, had, under the garb of privilege, endeavoured to mar the execution of measures the most salutary, he might well conclude the country in danger, and BUBpcct a want of fidelity in her citizens. Upon the yeomanry alone must every country depend for iti liberty : they arc its sinews and its strength. Ltl 19* tl4 Une OF GENERAL JACKSON. them continue virtuous, and they will cheerfully nay, fearlessly, maintain themselves against aggrei- sion ; but if tJiey become corrupted, or, through the mtrigue or misconduct of their rulers, lose confi- dence in their government, their importance will be impaired. While the people of Rome felt tliem- selves freemen, and proud of the name of citizens, Rome was invincible ; and, to descend to times more modern, the strength of France was an over- match for combined Europe only while Frenchmen had confidence and regard for their government Constitutional resources were attempted, and an effort made to draw out the militia : they resisted the requisition ; and that resistance, so far from be ing discountenanced by the legislature tlien in ces- sion, was encouraged by their assuming to them- selves the right of declaring the demand to be illegal, unnecessary, and oppressive. Thus supported, the mUitia, as might have been expected, stood their ground, and resolutely resisted the call to defend their country. The example thus established had already induced the conviction that they were privi- leged persons, and had reserved to them, on all oc- casions, when called for, the right of determining if the call were regular, why and wherefore made, where they would prefer to act, and be governed accordingly. When, therefore, the first requisitioD made by Jackson was attempted to be filled, a number made a tender of their services as volun- teers ; but on this condition, that they were not to oe marched from the state. The reply made show- ed they were to act with a general who knew notb mg of temporizing policy, and who would go the entile length that safety and necessity required. Thaj were uwured his object wu to defend tlie LIPB OF GENERAL JACKSON. 225 country, and that he shou'd do it at every hazard : that soldiers who entered the ranks with him, to fight the battles of their country, must forget the habits of social life, and be willing and prepared to go wherever duty and danger called ; such were the kind of troops he wanted, and none others would he have. Influenced by these and other considerations, which were daily disclosed ; sensible of the danger that surrounded him ; and from a conviction which he felt was founded not upon light considerations, that the country, without a most decisive course, could not be saved, he brought to the view of ^he legislature the necessity of suspending the writ of habeas corpus. To attempt himself so new and bold a course, he was satisfied, would draw to him the reproofs and censures of the orthodox politicians of the day, and involve him in various reproaches The legislature had already interrupted the com- merce by declaring and enforcing an embargo ; and the exercise of this subsequent authority, equally necessary with the first, could involve, he supposed, no higher exercise of power than the enactment of an embargo law. He was solicitous, therefore, to relieve himself of the responsibility, by prevailing on the legislature to do that which necessity and the security of the country seemed imperiously to require. They proceeded slowly to the investiga tion, and were deliberating, with great caution, upon their right, authority, and constitutional power to idopt such a measure, when the general, sensible that procrastination was dangerous, and might de- feat the objects intended to be answered, assumed ill responsibility, and superseded their deliberations 226 UFC OF GENERAL JACKSON. by declaring the city and environs of New Orleans under martial law. All persons entering the city were required, im- mediately, to report themselves to the adjutant-gen- eral ; and, on failing to do so, were to be arrested and detained for examination. None were to de part from it, or.be suffered to pass beyond the chair. of sentinels, but by permission from the command- mg general, or one of the staff: nor was any vessel or craft to be permitted to sail on the river, or the lakes, but by the same authority, or a passport sign- ed by the commander of the naval forces. The lamps were to be extinguished at nine o'clock at night ; after which time, all persona ound in the streets, or from their respective homes, without permission in writing, signed as above, were to be arrested as spies, and detained for exami- nation. At a crisis so important, and from a persuasion hat the country, in'its menaced situation, could not fle preserved by the exercise of any ordinary powers, he believed it best to adopt a course that should be efficient, even if it partially enaangered the rights and privileges of the citizen. He pro- claimed martial law, believing necessity and policy required it ; " under a solemn conviction that the country, committed to his care, could by such a measure alone be saved from utter ruin ; and from a religioub belief, that he was performing the most important duty. By it he intended to supersede Buch civil powers, as, m their operation, interferea with those he was obliged to exercise. He thought that, at such a moment, constitutional forms should be guipended, for the preservation of constimtioni^ tdrm OP QBNRRAL JACKAOff 9S7 nghiM ; and that there could be no question, whether It were better to depart, for a moment, from the enjoyment of our dearest privileges, or to have them wrested from us for ever.'' This rigid course, how ;er, was by no means well received. Whether had for its object good or evil ; whether springing rom necessity, or from a spirit of oppression in ite aithor, with many, was not a material question : it as sufficient for them to consider it an infractioi of the law, to excite tlieir warmest opposition ; \\ lilst the long-approved doctrine of necessitas rei afforded no substantial argument to induce a conviction of its propriety. Whether the civil should yield to military law, or which should havf'; control, wilh those whose anx- ious wishes were for the safety of the state, was not a matter of deep jr serious concern ; but to busy pol- iticians it opened a field for investigation : and many a fire-side patriot had arguments at command, to prove it an usurpation of power, an outrage upon government, and a violation of the constitution. During the invasion, and while affairs of major im- portance impended, no occasion was presented of testing its correctness ; but, soon as the enemy had retired, and before it was ascertained whether, at some more fortunate and less guarded point, they might not return, to renew those efforts which had so lately failed, Doiiiinick A. Hall, judge of the United States' court for this district, de ermined to wage a war of authority, and to have it dt oided, if, m any event, the civil power could be deprived of su premacy. Jackson presumed his tune of too much importance, at so momentous a period, to be vasted in the discussion of civil matters. He gave to it, therefore, the only attention which he believed 't 228 Lini OF 3ENERAL JACESON. nfRciousness merited, and, instead of obejnng th« command, ordered the judge to leave the city. Peace being restored, and danger over, the judge renewed the contest ; and, causing the general to appear before him, on a process of contempt, for detaining and refusing to obey a writ of habeas corpus, which had been directed to him, amerced him in a fine of a thousand dollars. How far he was actuated by correct motives, in exclusion of those feelings which sometimes estrange the judg- ment, his own conscience can determine : and how far his proceedings were fair and liberal, will appear hereafter, when, in proper order, we exam- ine this prosecution. For the present, we are con- fident, that, if ever there was a case that could jus- tify or excuse a departure from the law, its features were not stronger ^an those which influenced Gen- eral Jackson, on the present occasion, in suspend- ing the rights of the citizens. If Judge Hall were impelled to the course he took, in defence of the violated dignity of the constitution, and to protect the rights of a government, whose judicial powers he represented, whether right or wrong, he de- serves not censure ; although it might be well re- plied, that a fairer opportunity of showing his devot- edness to his country Lad just passed, when he might truly have aided in defence of her honour, nor left even room foi his motives to have been unfairly appreciatfid Learning the rumours that had been propagated, and fearing lest they might have an injurious ten- dency, Jackson immediately circulated an aJdreaa to his troops, in which he sought to counteract the efiect, and preserve their ardour and devotion ta thmt country. Un OF GBNIRAL lACEfOlf. tH ** Believe not," he observed, " that the threaten- ed invaaion is with a view \r restore the country to Spain. It is founded in design, and a supposition that you would be willing to return to your ancient government. Listen not to such incredible tales : your government is at peace wit^ Spain. It is youi vital enemy, the common enemy of m ankind, the highway robber of the world, that has sent his hire- lings among you, to put you from your guard, that you may fall an easier prey. Then look to your liberty, your property, the chastHy of your wives and daughters. Take a retrospect of the conduct of the British army at Hampton, and at other places, where it has entered our country — and every bosom, which glows with patriotism and virtue, will be in- spired with indignation, and pant for the arrival of the hour when we shall meet and revenge those outrages against the laws of civilization and hu manity." With the exception of the Kentucky troops, all the forces expected had arrived. General CarroU had reached Coffee's encampment, four miles above the city, on the 21st, and had immediately reported to the commanding general. The officers wore busily engaged in drilling, manoeuvring, and or- ganizing the troops, and in haviriig every thing ready for action. No doubt was entertained, but tlie British would be able to effect a landing at some point: the principal thing to be guarded agamst was not to prevent it ; for, since the loss of the gun-boats, any attempt of this kind could only be regarded as hopeless . but, by preserving a coi - stant vigilance, they might be met at the ver\ threshold. Small guard-boats v/ere constantly ply ij\g on the lakes, to give mibrmation of every move StO Lirm OF eEIfER4L JArCSOR ment. Some of these had come in, late on the evening of the 22d, ai-d reported that all was quiet, And that no unfavourable appearance portended in that direction. With such vigilance, constantly exercised, it is astonishing that the enemy should nave effected an invasion, and succeeded in disem- barking so large a force, without the slighcest inti rnation being had, until they were accidwntiLy dis covered emerging from the swamp, about aeven miles below the city. The general impioKsion is. that it was through information given by a small party of Spanish fishermen, that so secret a dise^i- barkation was effected. Several of them had set- tled at the mouth of this bayou, and supported them- selves by fish which they caught, and vended m the market at New Orleans. Obstructions had been ordered to be made on every inlet, and the Louis- iana militia were despatched for that purpose. This place had not received the attention its importance merited ; nor was it Until the 22d, that General Vil- lery, charged with the execution of this order, had placed here a small detachment of men. Towards day, the enemy, silently proceeding up the bayou landed, and succeeded in capturing the whole of this party but two, who, fleeing to the swamp, en- deavoured to reach the city ; but, owing to the thick undergrowth and briers, they did not arrive antil after the enemy had reached the banks of the Mississippi, and been discovered. Bayou Bienvenu, through which the British ef- fected a landing, is an arm of considerable width, stretching towards tire Mississippi from Lake Borgne, and about fifteen miles south-east of New Orleans. It had been reported to General Jackson on the 23d, that, on the day before, several strange ura or aiNBRAL iacuor. ttl ■til had been deicried off Terre au BoBof. To ae- certain correctly the truth of the statement, Majon Tatum and Latour, topographical engineers, were sent, with orders to proceed in that direction, and learn if any thing were attempting there. It iraa towards noon of the 23d, when they started Ap- proaching General Villery's plantation, and perceiv- ing at a distance soldiers and persor-a fleeing away, they at once supposed the enemy had arrived. What, however, was but surmise, was presently rendered certain ; and it was now no longer a doubt, bat the British had landed, in considerable force, and had actually gained, unobserved, the house of General Villery, on the bank of the Mississippi, where they had surprised, and made prisoners, a company of militia, there posted. Major Tatum, hastening back, announced his discovery. Preparations to act were immediately made by Genertil Jackson. Believing that to act speedily was of the highest importance, the signal guns were fired, and expresses sent forward, to concentrate his forces ; resolving that night to meet the invaders, and try his own and their firm- >ies8. 20 ttl Uri OP OBNBRAL lACKBOH. CHAPTER IX. tfettrnl Jackton concentrates his forces, and inarches to Jig}it the enemy. — Alarms of the city. — Anecdote. — Mode of attack, and beetle of tJu 23 occit py another position, equally favourable with the one whence they had been just driven, where they form ed for battle, and, for some time, gallantly main- tained themselves ; but which, after stubborn resist- ance, they were forced to yield. The enemy, discovering the obstinate advance made by the right wing of the American army, and pre suming perhaps that its principal strength was post ed on the road, formed the intention of attacking violently the left. Obliquing for this purpose, an attempt was made to turn it. At this moment, Da- quin's and the battalion of city guards, being march- ed up, and formed on the left of the forty-fourth regiment, repulsed them. The particular moment of the contest prevented many of those benefits, which might have been de- rived from the artillery. The darkness of the night was auch, that the blaze of the enemy's musketry was the only light afforded, by which to determine their position, or be capable of taking our own to advantage ; yet, notwithstanding, it greatly annoy- ed them, whenever it could be brought to bear. Directed by Lieutenant Spotts, a vigilant and skil- fbl officer, with men to aid him who looked to noth- mg but a zealous discharge of their duty, the moat important services were rendered. The enemy had been thrice beaten, and for near- ly a mile compelled to yield their ground. They had now retired, and, if found, were to. be sought for amidst the darkness of the night. The gene- ral determined to halt, and ascertain Coffee's posi- tion and success, previously to waging the battle further ; for as yet no communication had passed between them. The Caroline had almost ccaaed t4S idru or oinbral jackiom. her operatioiu ; it being only occasionally, that the noiae of her guns disclosed the little opportunity 3he possessed of acting efficiently. The express despatched to General Jackson froia the left wing having reached him, he determined to prosecute the successes he had gained no fur- ther. The darkness of the night, the confusion into which his own division had been thrown, and a similar disaster produced on the part of Coffee, — all pointed to tlie necessity of retiring from the field. The bravery displayed by his troops had induced a belief, that, by pressing forward, he might capture the whole British army : at any rate, he considered it but a game of hazard, which, if unsuccessful, could not occasion his own defeat. If incompetent to its execution, and superior numbers, or superior disci- pline, should compel him to recede from the effort, he well knew the enemy would not have temerity enough to attempt pursuit. The extreme darki^ess, their entire ignorance of the situation of the coun- try, and an apprehension lest their forces might be greatly outnumbered, afforded sufficient reasons on which to ground a belief, that, although beaten from his purpose, he would yet have it in his power to retire in safety ; but, on the arrival of the ex- press from General Coffee, learning the strong po- sition to which the enemy had retired, and that a part of the left wing had been detached, and were in all probability captured, he determined to retire from the contest, nor attempt a further urosecution of his successes. General Coffee was accordingly directed to withdraw, and take a position at Larond's plantation, where the line had been fint formed: and thither the troope on the right were tifo order- ed to be marched. LIFI OF GENERAL lACKflON. S4i The Iwt charge made by the left wing had lep arated from the main body Colonels Dyer and Gib- son, with two hundred men, and Captain Beal's com- pany of riflemen. What might be their fate ; whether they were captured, or had effected their retreat, was, at this time, altogether uncertain ; be Jiat as it might. Coffee's command was considera- oly weakened. Colonel Dyer, who commanded the extreme lefl, on clearing the grove, afler the enemy had retired, was marching in a direction where he expected to find General Coffee : he very soon discovered a force in front, and, halting his men, hastened towards it : arriving within a short distance, he was hailed, ordered to stop, and report to whom he belonged : Dyer, and Gibson, his lieutenant-colonel, who ac- companied him, advanced, and stated they were of Coflfee's brigade : by this time they had arrived within a short distance of the line, and, perceivinfj that the name of the brigade they had stated waa not understood, their apprehensions were awaken- ed, lest it might be a detachment of the enemy ; m this opinion they were immediately confirmed, and, wheeling to return, were fired on and pursued. Gibson had scarcely started when he fell : before he could recover, a soldier, quicker than the rest, had reached him, and pinned him to the ground with his bayonet; fortunately the stab had but slightly wounded him, and he was only held by his clothes ; thus pinioned, and perceiving others to be briskly advancing, but a moment was left for delib- eration ; — making a violent exertion, and springing to his feet, he threw his assailant to the ground, and made good his retreat. Colonel Dyer had retreat- ed about fiflv vards, vviien his horse dropped dea(} ; 21 944 Uri op GENERAL JACKIOlf. entangled in the fall, and slightly wounded in the thign, there was little prospect of relief, for the en- emy were briskly advancing ; his men being near at hand, he ordered them to advance and fire, which checked their approach, and enabled him to escape. Being now at the head of his command, perceiv- ing an enemy in a direction he had not expected, and uncertain how or where he might find General Coffee, he determined to seek him to tlie right, and. moving on with his little band, forced his way through the enemy's linos, with the loss of sixty-three ol his men, who were killed and taken. Captain Beal with equal bravery, chargred through the enemy, car rying off some nriaonorw, and losing several of his own company. This re-enforcemeni of the British had arrived from Bayou Bienvenu, aflor nio^lit. The boats that landed the first detachment proceeded back to tho shipping, and, having returned, were on their way up the bayou, when they heard the gruns ot the Caroline ; moving hastily on to the assistance of those who had debarked before, they reached tlie shore, and, knowing nothing of the situation of the two armies, during the engagement advanced in the rear of Gancral Coffee's brig-ade. Coming in con- tact with Colonel Dyer and Captain Beal, tliey filed off to the left, and reached the British lines. This detached part of Coffee's brigade, unable to unite with, or find him, retired to the place where they had first formed, and joined Colonel Hinds' Jragoons, which had remained on the ground where the troops had first dismounted, that they might cov- er their retreat, in the event it became necessary. Jackson had gone into this battle confident of f ucceflfl ; and his arrangements were such as would LIWM or GENERAL JACKSON. S4I haT0 eiuured it, even to a much greater extent, but for the intervention of circumstances that were not, ind could not be foreseen. The Caroline had giv- en her signals, and commenced the battle, a iittlo too early, before Coffee had reached his position and before every thing was fully in readiness to at tain the objects designed : but it was chiefly owing to the confusion introduced at first into the ranks, which checked the rapidity of his advance, gave the enemy time for preparation, and prevented his division from uniting with the right wing of Gener- al Coffee's brigade. Colonel Hinds, with one hundred and eighty dra- goons, was not brought into action during the night Interspersed as the plain was with mnumerable ditches, diverging in different directions, it waa im- possible that cavalry could act to any kind of ad- vantage: they were now formed in advance, to watch, until morning, the movements of the enemy. Prom the experiment just made, Jackson believ- ed it would be in his power, on renewing the attack, •» capture the British army : he concluded, there- fore, to order down to his assistance General Car- roll with his division, and to assail them again at the dawn of day. Directing Governor C aiborne to remain at his post, with tlie Louisiana militia, for the defence of an important pass to the city, the GentUly road, he despatched an express to Carroll, stating to him, that, in the event tliere had been no appearance of a force during the night, in the di rection of Chef Menteur, to join him with the troops under his command : this order was executed by one o'clock in the morning. Previously, howeverj to his arrival, a different determination was made Prom prisoners who had been brought in, and through 146 UFE OF GENERAL JACKSON deserters, it was ascertained that the strength cf the enemy, during the battle, was four tliousand, and, with L-e re-enforcements which had reached them, after its commencement, and during the ac- tion, their force could rot be less than six : — at any rate, it would greatly e^. "^eed his own, even after the Tennessee division should be added. Although very decided advantages had been obtained, yet they had been procured under circumstances that might be wholly lost in a contest waged, in open day, between forces so disproportionate, and by un- disciplined troops, against veteran soldiers. Jack son well knew it was incumbent upon him to act a part entirely defensive : should the attempt to de- stroy the city succeed, numerous difficulties would present themselves, which might be avoided, so long as he could hold the enemy in check. Prompted by these considerations, and believing it attainable \n no way so effectually as in occupying some point, and, by the strength he might give it, compensate for the inferiority of his numbers, and their want of discipline, he determined to forbear all further offensive efforts until he could more certainly dis- cover the views of the enemy, and until the Ken- tucky troops should reach him. Pursuing this idea, at four o'clock in the morning, having ordered Co- lonel Hinds to occupy the ground he was then aban- doning, and to observe the enemy closely, ho fell back, and formed his line behind a deep ditch thai stretched to ths swamp at right angles from the river. Thsre were two circumstances recommend- ing the importance of this place : the swamp, which, from the high lands, at Baton Rouge, skirts the riv- er at irregular distances, and in many places is al- ncMit im^wrvioui, had here approached within tout tdWm OP OBNERAL JACKSON. 347 nundred yard/; of the Mississippi, and hence, from the narrowness of the pass, was more easily to be defended ; added to which, there was a deep canal, whence the dirt, being thrown on the upper aide, al- ready formed a tolerable work of defence. Behind this his troops were formed, and proper measures adopted for increasing its strength, with a deter- mination never to abandon it. Promptitude in decision, and activity in execu- tion, constituted the leading traits of Jackson's char- acter. No sooner had he resolved on the course which he thought necessary to be pursued, than with every possible despatch he hastened to ita comple- tion. Before him was an army proud of its name, and distinguished for its deeds of valour ; oppos- ed to which was his own unbending spirit, and an inferior, undisciplined and unarmed force. He con- ceived, therefore, that his was a defensive policy : that, by prudence, he should- be able to preserve what offensive operation might have a tendency to endanger. Hence, with activity and industry, bas- ed on a hope of ultimate success, he commenced his plan of defence, determining to fortify himself effect- ually, as the peril and pressure of the moment would permit. When to expect attack he could not tell; readiness to meet it was for him to determine on ; alj else was for the enemy. Promptly, therefore, he pro- ceeded with his system of defence ; and with such anxiety, that, until the night of the 27th, when his line was completed, he never slept, or for a moment closed his eyes. Resting his hope of safety here, he was every where, through the night, present, en- couraging his troops, and hastening a completion of the work. The excitement produced by the mighty object before him was such as overcame the demajMl i48 UPI OP SINKRAL lACftflOM. of natuie, and fbr five days and four nights he wu without sleep, and constantly employed. His line of defence beiug completed on the night of the 27th, he, for the first time since the arrival of the enemy, retired to rest and r'pose. The soldier who has stood the shock of battle, and knows what slight circumstances oftentimes proauce decided advantages, will be able to appre- ciate the events of this night. Although tlie dread- ful carnage of the 8th of January, hereafter to be told, was in fact the finishing blow, that struck down the towering hopes of those invaders, yet iji the battle of the 23d is there to be found abundant cause why success resulted to our arms. The Brit- ish had reached the Mississippi without the fire of a gun, and encamped upon its banks as composed ly as if they had been seated on their own soi". These were circumstances which awakened a be lief that they expected little opposition, were cer- tain of success, and that the troops with whom they were to contend would scarcely venture to re- sist them : resting thus confidently in the expacta- tionof success, they would the next day have mov- ed forward, and succeeded in the accomplishment of their designs. Jackson, convinced that an ear- ly impression was essential to ultimate success, had resolved to assail them at the moment of their land- ing, and " attack them in their first position :" we have, therefore, seen him, with a force inferior, by one half, to that of the enemy, at an unexpected moment, break into their camp, and, with his undis- ciplined yeomanry, drive before him the pride of England, and the conquerors of Europe. It was an event that could not fail to destroy all previoua tbeoriea, and establigh a conclusion, which our en- LIFK OF GENERAL JACKSON. 249 emy had not before formed, that they were con- tending against valour inferior to none they had seen; — before which their own bravery had not stood, nor their skill availed them : it had the ef- fect of satisfying them, that the quantity and kind of troops it was in our power to wield, must be dif- ferent from any thing that had been represented to them ; for, much as they had heard of the courage of the man with whom they were contending, they could not suppose, that a general, having a country to defend, and a reputation to preserve, would ven- ture to attack, on their own chosen ground, a great iy superior army, and one, which, by the numerous victories it had achieved, had already acquired a feme in arms ; they were convinced that his force must greatly surpass what they had expected, and be composed of materials different from what they had imagined. The American troops, which were actually en- gaged, did not amount to two thoufland men : they consisted of part of Coffee's brigade and Captain Seal's company, 648 The 7th and 44th regiments, - - 763 Company of marines and artillery, - - 82 Plauche's and Daquin's battalions, - 488 And the Mississippi dragoons under Colonel i Hinds, not in the action, - - | *®^ 2167* which, for more than an hour, maintained a severe conflict with a force of four or five thousand, and retired in safety from the ground, with the loss of • Thu itatQinent may be relied on j it wan fumithed to the au- thor by Colonel Robert Butler, adjutant-general of tht m»itimt iivitum, wbo BMured bim it was conmd. Um OP eiNBRAL JACK0OH but twenty-four killed, one hundred and fifteen wounded, and seventy-four made prisoners ; while the killed, wounded, and prisoners, of the enemy, were not less than four hundred. Our officers and soldiers executed every order with promptitude, and nobly sustained their coun- try's character. Lieutenant-Colonel Lauderdale, of Coffee's brigade, an officer of great promise, and on whom every reliance was placed, fell at his post, and at his duty : he had entered the service, and descended the river with the volunteers under Gen- eral Jackson, in the winter of 1812, passed through all the hardships of the Creek war, and had ever manifested a readiness to act when nis country needed his services. Young, brave, and skilful, h« had already afforded evidences of a capacity, which might, in fUture, have become useful ; his exemplary conduct, both in civil and military life, had acquired for him a respect, that rendered his fall a subject of general regret Lieutenant Mf Lacosle's plantation The enemv, not yet re- tBt UFB OP OBNESAL JAC&SOM. corered of the p&nic of the preceding evening, be lieved it wa« in contemplation to urge another at- tack, and immediately fonned themselves to repel it ; but Coffee, having succeeded in recovering some of his horses, which were wandering along the mar- gin of the swamp, and in regaining part of the cloth ing which his troops had lost the night before, re- turned to the line, leaving them to conjecture the objects of his movement. The scanty supply of clothes and blankets that remained to the soldiers, from their long and expjs- ed marches, had been left where they dismounted to meet the enemy. Their numbers were too lim- ited, and the strength of their opponents too well ascertained, for any part of their force to remain and take care of what was left behind : it was so essential to hapten on, reach their destination, and be ready to act when the signal from the Caroline should announce their co-operation necessary, that no time was afforded them to secure their horses ; — they were turned loose, and their recovery trust- ed to chance. Although many were regained, many were lost; while most of the men remained with a single suit, to encounter, in the open field, and in swamps covered with water, the hardships of camp, and the severity of winter. It is a circimi- stance which entitles them to much credit, that under privations so oppressive, complaints were never heard. This state of things was not of long continuance. The story of their sufferings was no sooner known, than the legislature appropriated a sum of money for their relief, which was greatly increased by subscriptions in the city and neigh- bourhood. Materials being purchased, the ladies. with that warmth of heart characteristic of theii UfS or CBNXRAL JACKSON t$4 •ex, at once exerted themselves in removing thei« difltressCB : all their industry was called into action, and, in a little time, the suffering soldier was re- lieved. Such generous conduct, in extending as- sistance at a moment when it was so much needed, while it conferred on those females the highest hon- our, could not fail to nerve the arm of the brare with new zeal for tlie defence of their benefactress- es. This distinguished mark of their benevolence is still remembered ; and often as these valiant men are heard to recount the dangers they have passed, they breathe a sentiment of gratitude to those who conferred upon them such distinguished marks of their kindness. To keep up a show of resistance, detachments of light troops were occasionally kept in front of the line, harassing the enemy's advanced posts whenever an opportunity was offered. Every moment that could be gained, and every delay that could be extended to the enemy's attempts to reach the city, was of the utmost importance. The works were rapidly progressing, a^d hourly increasing in strength. The militia of the state were every day arriving, and every day the prospect of successful opposition was brightening. The enemy still remained at his first encamp- ment. Tc be in readiness to repel an assault when attempted, the most active exertions were made on the 24th and 25th. The canal, covering the front of our line, was deepened and widened, and a strong mud wall formed of the earth thrown out To prevent any approach until his system of defence should be in greater forwardness, Jackson ordered the levee to be cut, about a hundred yards below the point he had occupied. The river being very S64 LIFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. high^ 8 broad stream of water passed rapidly through the plain, of the depth of tliirty or forty inches which prevented any approach of troops on foot Embraaures were formed, and two pieoes of artil- lery, under the command of Lieutenant Spotts, early on the morning of the 24th, were placed in a posi- Hon to rake the road leading up the levee. He was under constant apprehensions, lest, in spite of his exertions below, the city might, through some other route, be reached ; and those fears were increased to-day, by a report that a strong force had arrived, and debarked at the head of Lake Borgne. This, however, proved to be unfounded : the enemy had not appeared in that direction, nor had the offi- cer, to whom was intrusted the command of this fort, 80 much relied on, forgotten his duty, or for- saken his post. Acting upon the statement that Major Lacoste had retired from the fort, and fallen back on Bayou St. John, and incensed that orders, which, from their importance, should have been faithfully executed, had been thus lightly regarded, he hastened to inform him what he had understood, and to forbid liis leaving his position. " The bat- tery I have placed under your command must be defended at all ha^'.ards. In you, and the valour of your troops, I repose every confidence ; — let me not b- deceived. With us every thing goes on well: the enemy has not yet advanced. Our troops have covered themselves with glory : it is a noble ex- ample, and worthy to be followed by all. Maintain your post, nor ever think of retreating." To give additional strength to a place deemed so important to inspire confidence, and ensure safety. Colonel Dyer and two hundred men were ordered to MMft urk or obnsral jacksok. tSi m ita defence, and act aa videttes, in advance of the occupied points. General Morgan, who, at the English Turn, conb manded the fort on the east bank of the river, was instructed to proceed as near the enemy's camp as prudence would permit, and, by destroying the levee to let in the waters of the Mississippi between them The execution of this order, and a similar one, pre- viously made, below the line of defence, had entire- ly insulated the enemy, and prevented his march against either place. On the 26th, however, the conmianding general, fearing for the situation of Morgan, who, from the British occupying the inter- mediate ground, was entirely detached from his camp, directed him to abandon his encampment, carry off such of the cannon as might be wanted, and tltfow the remainder into the river, where they could be again recovered when the waters reced- ed ; to retire to the other side of the river, and as- sume a position on the right bank, nearly opposite to his line, and have it fortified. This movement was imposed by the relative disposition of the two armies. Necessity, not choice, made it essentia] that St. Leon should be abandoned. From every intelligence, obtained thiough de sorters and prisoners, it was evident that the British fleet would make an effort to ascend the river, and co-operate with the troops already landed. Lest this, or a diversion in a different quarter, might be attempted, exertions were made to interpose such defences on the Mississippi 6is might assure protec- tion. The forts on the river, well supported witfi brave men, and heavy pieces of artillery, might perhaps, have the effect to deter their shipping from venturing in that direction, and dispose them to seek 22 ^W LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. iome safer route, if any could be discovered. Pa«i Barrataria was best calculated for this purpose. The difficulty of ascending the Mississippi, from the rapidity of the current, i s winding course, and the ample protection given at Forts St. Philip and Bour- bon, were circumstances to which, it was not to be inferred, the British were strangers. It wag a more rational conjecture that they would seek a passage through Barrataria, proceed up on the right bank of the river, and gain a position whence, co-operating with the forces on the east side, they might drive our troops from the line they had form- ed. Major Reynolds was acccordingly ordered thither, with instructions to place the bayous, emp- tying through this pass, in the best possible state of defence — to occupy the island — to mount suffi- cient ordnance, and draw a chain, within cannon- shot, across, and protect it from approach. Lafite who had been heretofore promised pardon for the outrages he had committed against the laws of the United States, was also despatched with Rey- nolds. He was selected, because his knowledge of the topography and precise situation of this section of the state was remarkably correct: i* was the point where he had constantly rendezvoused, dur- ing the time of cruising agamst the merchant ves- sels of Spain, under a commission obtained at Car- :hagena, and where he had become perfectly ac- quainted with every inlet and entrance to the gulf through which a passage could be effected. With these arrangements — treason apart — all anxiously alive to the interest of the country, and disposed to protect it, there was little room to ap- prehend disaster. To use the general's own expres- noa. on another occasion, '< the surest defence, and Uni OP GENEitlL JAOKfOff. S^f one which seldom failed of gucceec, wm a rampart of high-minded and hrave mGn.'* There were some of this description -^ith him, on whom he could safely rely, in moments of extreme peril. As yet the enemy were urinformed of the posi- tion of Jacksoi]. They had been constantly engag- ed, since their landing, in procuring from their ship- ping every thing necessary to ulterior operations A complete command on the lakes, and possession of a point on the margin, presented an uninterrupt ed ingress and egress, and afforded the opportunit} of conveying whatever was wanted, in perfect safe- ty, to their camp. The height of the Mississippi, and the discharge of water through the openings made in the levee, had given an increased deptli to the canal, from which they had first debarked, en- abled them to advance their boats much farther, in the direction of their encampment, and to bring up their artillery, bombs, and munitions. Thus engag- ed, during the first three days after their arrival early on the morning of the 27th, a battery was discovered on the bank of the river, erected during the preceding night, and on which were mounted several pieces of heavy ordnance ; from this position a fire was opened on the Caroline schooner, lying under the opposite shore. After the battle of the 23d, m which this vessel had so effectually aided, she had passed to the op- posite side of the river, where she had since loin. Her services were too highly appreciated not to be again desired, in the event the enemy should en- deavour to advance. Her present situation waa considered unsafe, but it had been essayed in vain to advance her higher up iie stream. No favoura- 91 e breeze hsd yet arisen to aid her in stenuning 258 LIFK OF GEN'KRAL JACKSON, the current ; and towing, and other remedies, had been resorted to without success. Her safety might have been ensured by floating her down the river, and placing her under cover of the guns of the fort, though it was preferred, as a matter of policy, to risk her where she was, hourly calculating that a favourable wind might relieve her, rather than, by dropping her with the current, lose those benefits which, against an advance of the enemy, it might be in her power to extend. Commodore Patterson had left her on the 26th, by the orders of the general, when Captain Henly made a further, but ineffectual effort to force her up the current, near the line, for the double purpose of its defence and for her own safety. These attempts to remove her being discovered at daylight, on the morning of the 27th, a battery, mounting five guns, opened upon her, discharging bombs and red-hot shot: it was spiritedly answered, but without affectiftg the battery ; there being but a long twelve pounder that could reach. The sec- ond fire had lodged a hot shot in the hold, directly under her cables, whence it could not be removed, and where it immediately communicated fire to the flchooner. The shot from the battery were con stantly taking effect, firing her in different places while the blaze, already kindled under her cables, was rapidly extending. A well-grounded appro hension of her commander, that she could be nc longer defended, induced a fear lest the magazine should be reached, and every thing destroyed. One of his crew being killed, and six wounded, and noj a glimmering of hope entertained that she could be preserved, orders were given to abandon her. The UFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. 969 crew in safety reached the shore, and in a short time she blew up. Although unexpectedly depn ed of so material a dependence, an opportunity was soon presented of using her brave crew to advantage. Gathering confidence from what had been just effected, the enemy left thcnr encampment, and moved in the di- rection of our line. Their numbers had been in- creased, and Major-General Sir Edward Packenham now commanded in person. Early on the 28th, hia columns commenced their advance to storm ouj works. At the distance of half a mile, their heavy artillery opened, and quantities of bombs, balls, and congreve rockets, were discharged. It was a scene of terror, which they had probably caJculat ed would excite a panic in the minds of the raw troops of our army, and compel them to surrender at discretion. Their congreve rockets, though a kind of instrument of destruction to which our troops, unskilled in the science of warfare, had beer hitherto strangers, excited no other feeling than that which novelty inspires. At the moment, there- fore, that the British, in different columns, were moving up, in all the pomp of battle, preceded by these insignia of terror, more than danger, and were expecting to behold their " Yankee foes" flee be- fore them, our batteries halted their advance. In addition to the two pieces of cannon, mounted on our works on the 24th, three others, of heavy caliber, obtained from the navy department, had been formed along the line ; these, opening on the enemy, checked their progress, and disclosed to '.hem the hazard of the project they were on. Lieu- tenants Crawley and Norris volunteered, and. with the crew of the Caroline, maintained, at tbt 22* ttfO UWm OP GENERAL JACKSON guns they commanded, that firmness and decisioB for which they had been so highly distinguished. They had been selected by the general, because oi their superior knowledge in gunnery, and, on this occasion, gave a further evidence of their skill, and of a disposition to act in any situation where they could be serviceable. The line, which, from the labours bestowed on it, was daily strengthening, was not yet in a situation effectually to resist ; this deficiency, however, was well remedied by the brave men who were formed in its rear. From the river the greatest injury was effected Lieutenant Thompson, who commanded the Louis- iana sloop, opposite the line of defence, no sooner discovered the columns approaching, than, warping her around, he brought her starboard guns to bear, and forced them to retreat : but, from their heavy artillery, the enemy maintained the conflict with great spirit, constantly discharging their bombs and rockets for seven hours, when, unable to make a breach, or silence the fire from the sloop, they abandoned a contest where few advantages seemed to be presented. The crew of this vessel was com- posed of new recruits, and of discordant materials — of soldiers, citizens, and seamen ; yet, by the ac- tivity of their commander, were they so well per- fected in duty, that they already managed their guns with the greatest certainty of effect ; and, by three o'clock in the evening, with the aid of the land batteries, had completely driven back the en- emy. Imboldened by the effect produced the day before on the Caroline, the furnaces of the enemy were put in operation, and numbers of hot shot Uurown from a heavy piece, which was protected by Um tov«e. An »Utmpt waf made to carry it off LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON. JI61 In their endeavours to remove it, " I eaw," says Commodore Patterson, " distinctly, with the aid of a glass, several balls strike in the midst of the men who were employed in dragging it away." In this engagement, waged for seven hours, we received little or no injury. The Louisiana sloop, against which the most violent exertions were made, had but a single man wounded, by the fragments of a shell, which burst over her deck. Our entire loss did not exceed nine killed, and eight or ten wound- ed. The enemy, being more exposed, acting in the open field, and in range of our guns, suffered considerable injury ; at least one hundred and twenty were killed and wounded. Among the killed, on our side, was Colonel James Henderson, of the Tennessee militia. An advance party of the British had, during the action, taken post behind a fence that ran obliquely to our line. Henderson, with a detachment of two hundred men, was sent out by General Carroll to drive them from a position whence they were greatly annoying our troops. Had he advanced in the manner directed, he would have been less exposed, and more effect- ually secured the object intended ; but, misunder- standing the order, he proceeded in a different route, and fell a victim to his error. Instead of marching in the direction of the wood, and turning the enemy, which might have cut off their retreat, he proceeded in front, towards the river, leaving them in rear of the fence, and himself and his detach- ment exposed. His mistake being perceived from ths line, he was called by the adjutant-general, and directed to return ; but the noise of the waters, through which they were wading, prevented any communication. Having reached a knoll of dn t6t LIFS OP GBNKRAL JACEflOlf. ^ound, he attempted the execution of his order ^ but Boon fell, by a wound in the head. Deprived of their commander, and perceiving their situation hazardous, the detachment retreated to the line, with the loss of their colonel and five men. While this advance was made, a column of the enemy was threatening our extreme left ; to frus- trate the attempt, Coffee was ordered with his rifle- men to hasten through the woods, and check their approach. The enemy, greatly superior to him in numbers, no sooner discovered his movement than they retired, and abandoned the attack they had meditated. A supposed disaffection in New Orleans, and an enemy in front, were circumstances well calculated to excite unpleasant forebodings. General Jackson believed it necessary to his security, while contend- ing with avowed foes, not to be wholly inattentive to dangers at home ; but, by guarding vigilantly, to be able to suppress any treasonable purpose the moment it should be developed. Previously to de- parting from the city, on the evening of the 23d, he ordered Major Butler, his aid, to remain with the guards, and be vigilant that nothing transpired in his absence calculated to operate injuriously. His fears that there were many of the inhabitants, who felt no attachment to the government, and would not scruple to surrender, whenever, prompted by their interest, it should become necessary, have been no- ticed. In this belief, subsequent circumstances evinc- ed there was no mistake, and showed that to his energy is to be ascribed the cause the country was saved. It is a fact, which was disclosed on making ftp exchange of prisoners, that, in despite of all oui cffbrta, the enemy were daily apprized of ever^ UFI OF OBNIIIAL lACKfOir 96B thing that transpired in our camp. Every arrange- ment, and every change of position, was immediate- ly communicated. " Nothing/' remarked a British officer, at the close of the invasion, " was kept a secret from us, except your numbers ; this, al- tliough diligently sought, could never be procured." Between the 23d and the attack, on the 28th, to carry our line, Major Butler, who still remained in the city, waa applied to by Fulwar Skipwith, speak- er of the senate, to ascertain the commanding gen- eral's views, provided he should be driven from his line of encampment, and compelled to retreat through the city ; would he, in that event, destroy it ? It was, indeed, a curious inquiry from one who, having spent his life in serving his country, might better have understood the duty of a subordinate officer ; and that, even if, from his situation. Major Butler had so far acquired the confidence of his general as to have become acquainted with his de- signs, he was not at liberty to divulge them, with- out destroying confidence, and acting criminally. On asking the cause of the inquiry, Mr. Skipwith replied, it wa3 understood that, if driven from his position, and made to retreat upon the city, General Jackson had it in contemphition to lay it in ruins ; the legislature, he said, desired information on this subject, that, if such were his intentions, they might, by offering terms of capitulation, avert so serious a calamity. That a sentiment, having for its object a surrender of the city, should be entertained by this body, waa scarcely credible ; yet a few days brought the certainty of it more fuUy to view, and showed that they were already devising plans tc ensure the safety of themselves and property at any sacrifice. While the e^eneral was hastening along 964 Uri OP GENERAL lACKSON the line, from ordering Coffee againBt a column of the British on the extreme left, he waa hailed by Mr. Duncan, one of his volunteer aids, and informed that it was agitated, secretly, by the members of the legislature, to offer terms of capitulation to the enemy, and proffer a surrender ; and that Governor Claiborne awaited his orders on the subject. Poised as was the result, the safety or fall of the city rest- ing in uncertainty, although it was plainly to be perceived, that, with a strong army before them, no such resolution could be carried into effect, yet it might be productive of evil, and, in the end, bring about the most fattil consequences. Even the dis closure of such a wish, on the part of the legisla- te e, might create parties, excite opposition in the army, and inspire the enemy with renewed confi- dence. The Tennessee forces, and Mississippi vol- unteers, it was not feared, would be affected by the measure ; but it might detach the Louisiana militia, and even extend itself to the ranks of the regular troops. Jackson was greatly incensed, that those, whose safety he had so much at heart, should be seeking, under the authority of office, to mar his best exertions. He was, however, too warmly press- ed at the moment, — for the battle was raging, — to give it the attention its importance merited ; but, availing himself of the first respite from the vio- lence of the attack waged against him, he apprized Governor Claiborne of what he had heard ; ordered dim closely to watch the conduct of the legislature, and, the moment the project of offering a capitula- tion to the enemy should be fully disclosed, to place a guard at the door, aru confine them to their cham* b«r. The governor, in his zeal to execute the com- isand^ and from a fear of the consequencei involved Urm OF GENERAL JACKSON* S65 a iQcli conduct, construed as imperative an ordef which waa merely contingent; and, placing an armed force at the door of the capitol, prevented the members from convening, and their schemes from maturing. The purport of tins order was misconceived by the governor ; or, perhaps, with a view to avoid sub- sequent inconveniences, was designedly mistaken. Jackson's object was not to restrain the legislature in the discharge of their official duties; for, al- though he thought that such a moment, when the sound of the cannon was constantly pealing in their ears, was inauspicious to wliolesome legislation, and that it would have better comported with the state of the times for them to abandon their civil duties, and appear in tlie field, yet was it a matter indeh- cate to be proposed ; and it was hence preferred, that they should adopt whatever course might be suggested by their own notions of propriety. This sentiment would have been still adhered to ; but when, through the communication of Mr. Duncan, they were represented as entertaining schemes ad- verse to the general interest of the country, the ne- cessity of a difierent course of conduct was obvious But he did not order Governor Claiborne to interfere with their duties ; on the contrary, he was instruct- ed, so soon as any thing hostile to the genera] cause should be ascertained, to place a guakd at the door, and keep the members to their duty. " My object in this," remarked tlie general, "was, that then they would be able to proceed with their business without producing the slightest injury: whatever schemes they might entertain would have remained witli themselves, without the power of circulating them to the prejudice of any other interest than 966 LIPB OF GENERAL JACKSON their own. Claiborne mistook my order, and, inneafl of ihutting them in doors, contrary to my vnahes, turned them out" Before this he had been called on by a special committee of the legislature to know what his course would be, should necessity drive him from his posi tion. " If," replied the genera], " I thought the hair of my head could divine what I should do, I would cut it off: go back with this answer ; say to your honourable body, that, if disaster does overtake me and the fate of war drives me from my line to the city, they may expect to have a very warm session." " And what did you design to do," one inquired, " pro- vided you had been forced to retreat?" "I should,* he replied, " have retreated to the city, fired it, and fought the enemy amidst the surrounding flames. There were with me men of wealth, owners of considerable property, who, in such an event, would have been amongst the foremost to have applied the torch to their own buildings ; and what they had left unione, I should have completed. Nothing for the comfortable maintenance of the enemy would have been left in the rear. I would have destroyed New Orleans, occupied a position above on the river, cut off all supplies, and in this way compel- led them to depart from the country." We shall not pretend to ascribe this conduct to disaffection to the government, or to treasonable motives. The impulse that produced it was, no doubt, interest — a principle of the human mind which strongly sways, and often destroys, its best conclusions. The disparity of the two armies, in numbers, preparation, and discipline, had excited apprenension, and destroyed hope. If Jackson were driven back, — and little else was looked fory— Un OF GENERAL JACK80N S67 rumour fixed his determination of dt voting the city to destruction ; but, even if such were not his in- dention, the vengeance of the enemy might be fairly calculated to be in proportion to tlie opposition tliey should receive. The government was represented in the person of the commanding general, on whom rested all responsibility, and whose voice, on the subject of resistance or capitulation, should alone have been heard. In the field were persons, en- during hardships, and straining every nerve, for the general safety. A few of the members of their own body, too, were there, who did not despond.* Additional guards were posted along the swamp, on both sides of the Mississippi, to arrest all inter- course ; while on the river, the common highway watch-boats were constantly plying, during the night, in different directions, so that a log could scarcely float down the stream unperceived. Two flat-bottomed boats, on a dark night, were turned adrifl above, to ascertain if vigilance were preserv- ed, and whether there would be any possibility ot escaping the guards, and passing in safety to the British lines. The light boats discovered them on their passage, and, on the alarm being given, they were opened upon by the Louisiana sloop, the bat- teries on the shore, and in a few minutes were sunk. In spite, however, of every precaution, Trea- son discovered avenues, through which to project and execute her nefarious plans, and through them * Only four members of the legislature appeared in the field to Jefend their country. We regret not knowing the name of one of these persons : tnose we have ascertained are. General Gar- rigue Floiack, Major Eziei, and Mr. Bufort, whri abandoning their civil duties for the fields afforded ezaniples worthy of louta- UOB. 268 UPB OF GENERAL JACKtfON. tvas constantly afibrded information to the enemj carried to them, no doubt, by adventurous friena» who effected their nightly passage through the deepest parts of the swamp where it waa impoeei- ble for sentinels to be stationed Great inconvenience was sustained for tne want of arms, and much anxiety felt, lest the enemy, through tlieir faitliful adherents, might, on this sub- ject also, obtain information ; to prevent it, as far na possible. General Jackson endeavoured to con- ceal the strengtli of his army, by suffering his re- ports to be seen by none but himself and the adju- tant-general. Many of the troops in the field were supplied with common guns, which were of little iervice. The Kentucky troops, daily expected, were also understood to be badly provided with arms. Uncertain but that the city might yet con- tain many articles that would be serviceable, orders were issued to the m^yor of New Orleans, direct- ing him to inquire through every store and house, and take possession of all the muskets, bayoneta, spades and axes he could find. Understanding loo, there were many young men, who, from differ- ent pretexts, had not appeared in the field, he waa mstructed to obtain a register of every man in the city, under the age of fifty, tliat measures might be concerted for drawing forth those who had hitherto appeared backward in the pending contest. Frequent light skirmishes, by advanced parties, without material effect on either side, were the only incidents that took place for several days. Colonel Hinds, at the head of the Mississippi dragoons, on the 30th, was ordered to dislodge a party of the enemy, who, under covei of a ditci that ran across the pLain, ware annoying our fatigue partie*. Id Un or OKNKRAt JACKSON. 26t hie admnce, he wu unexpectedly throwE into an ambuscade, and became exposed to the fire of a line, which had hitherto been unobserved. His collected conduct, and gallant deportment, gained him and his corps the approbation of the command- ing general, and extricated him from the danger in which he was placed. The enemy, forced from their position, retired, and he returned to the line, •vith the less of five men. LIFE OF GENERAL lACftSOII. CHAPTER X. {'fuck oft'u \st of January. — General Jackson'$ line of dkfence. — KerUt^icy troops arHve at head-quarter x. — British arviy re- enforced ; their prepai ations for attack. — BaUle of the Sth oj January, and lepuhe of the enemy. — American redoubt carried, and retaken. — 'Colonel Thornton proceeds against General Morgan^s line, and takes possessio7i of it. — Letter of Captain Wilkinson. — British icatcli tcord. — Generous conduct of the AmeHcan soldiers. — Morgan'' s line regained. — General Lambert requests a suspejision of hostilities. — Armistice concluded. — Ex' ecution of an American soldier by tlie British. The British were encamped two miles below the American army, on a perfect plain, in full view. Although foiled in their attempt to carry our works by their batteries on the 28th, they resolved upon another attack, which they believed would be more successful. Presuming their failure to have arisen from not having sufficiently strong batteries and heavy ordnance, a more enlarged arrangement vvasj resorted to, with a confidence of silencing opposi tion. The interim between the 28th of December and 1st of January was spent in preparing to exe- cute their designs. Their boats had been de- spatched to the shipping, and an additional supply of heavy cannon landed through Bayou Bienvenu, whence they had first debarked. During the night of the 31st, they were busily engaged. An impenetrable fog, next morning, not dispelled until nine o'clock, by concealing tlieir purpose, aided them in the plans they were project- ing, and gave time for the completion of their works. This having disappeared, several heavy batteries, tt the distance of six hundred yards, mounting U7I OP OBNBRAL lAOMOIf. 171 •igbteen and twenty-four pound carrontdef, wer« preiented to view. No sooner waa it sufficiently clear to distinguish objects at a distance, than theao were opened, and a tremendous burst of arti. «ry commenced, accompanied with congreve rocketa. that filled the air in all directions. Our troops, pro- tected by a defence, which, from their constant la- bours, they believed to be impregnable, undisturbed, maintained their ground, and, by their skilful management, succeeded in dismounting the guns of the enemy. The British, through the friendly in- terference of some disaffected citizens, having been apprized of the situation of the general's quarters, that he dwelt in a house at a small distance in the rear of his line of defence, against it directed their first and principal efforts, with a view to destroy the commander. So great was the number of ball* thrown, that, in a little while, its porticos were beat- en down, and the building made a complete wreck. In this design they were disappointed ; for with Jackson it was a constant practice, on the first ap- pearance of danger, not to wait in his quarters, watching events, but instantly to proceed to the line, to form arrangements as circumstances might require. Constantly in expectation of a charge, he was never absent from the post of danger; and thither he had this morning repaired, at the first sound of the cannon, to aid in defence, and inspire his troops with firmness. Our guns, along the line, now opened, to repel the assault, and a con- stant roar of cannon, on both sides, continued untO nearly noon ; when, by the superior skill of our engineers, the two batteries formed on the right, next the v/oods, were nearly beaten down, and many of the guns dismounted, broken, and rendtr 23* f7S UFI or eiNBRAL lAOLSOM. ed uteleM. That next the river still contmued Iti fire, until three o'clock; when, perceiving all at- tempts to force a breach inefibctual, the enemy gave up the contest, and retired. Every act of theirs discovers a strange delusion, and unfolds on what wild and fanciful grounds all their expectations were founded. That they could effect an opening, and march through the strong defence in their front, was an idea so fondly cherished, that an apprehension of failure had scarcely occurred. So sanguine were they in this belief, that, early in the morning, their soldiers were arranged along the ditches, in rear of their batteries, ready to advance to tiie charge, the moment a breach could be made. Here, by their situation, protected from danger, they remained, waiting the result. But, their efforts not having produced the slightest impression, nor their rockets the effect of driving 6ur militia away, they aban- doned the contest, and retired to their camp, leav- ing their batteries materially injured. It occurred to the British commander, an attack might be made to advantage next the woods, and & force was accordingly ordered to penetrate in this direction, and turn the left of our line, which was supposed not to extend farther than to the margin of the swamp. In this way, it was expected a diver- sion could be made, while the reserve columns, being in waiting, were to press forward the moment this object could be effected. Here, too, disap- pointment resulted. Coffee's brigade, being extend- ed into the swamp as far as it was possible for an advancing party to penetrate, brought unexpected dangen mjo view, and occasioned an abandonment of the project That to turn the extreme left of UFK OP GENERAL lACRSON. 17| the line was practicable, and might be atteirpted, waa the subject of early consideration ; and neces- sary precaution had been taken to prevent it Although cutting the levee had raised the water in the swamp, and increased the difficulties of keep- ing troops there, yet a fear lest this pass might be sought by the enemy, and the rear of the line gain- ed, had determined the general to extend his de- fence even here. This had been intrusted to General Coffee; and surely a more arduous duty can scarcely be imagined. To form a breastwork, in such a place, was attended with many difficul ties, and considerable exposure. A slight defence, however, had been thrown up, and the underwood, for thirty or forty yards in front, cut down, that the riflemen, stationed for its protection, might have a complete view of any force, which might attempt a passage. When it is recollected this position was to be maintained night and day, uncertain of the moment of attack, and that the only opportunity afforded our troops for rest was on logs and brush, by which they were raised above the surrounding water, it may be truly said, that seldom has it fall- en to the lot of any to encounter greater hardships : but, accustomed to privation, and alive to those feel- ings which a love of country inspires, they obeyed, and cheerfully kept their position until danger had subsided. Sensible of the importance of the point they defended, that it was necessary to be main- tained, be the sacrifice what it might, they looked to nothing but a faithful discharge of the trust con- fided to them. Our loss, in this affair, waa eleven killed, and twenty-three wounded: that of the enemy wm never correctly known. The only certain infonaa 174 LIFS or GINBRAL JACKSON. tion is containod in a communication of the 38tb instant from Gencial Lambert to Earl Bathurst, in whicli the loss, from the 1st to the 5th, is stated at seventy-eight Many allowances, however, are to bo made for this report. From the great pre- cieion of our fire, their loss was, no doubt, consider- able. — The enemy's heavy shot having penetrated our intrenchment, in many places, it was dis- covered not to be as strong' as had been imagined. Fatigue parties were again employed, and its strength daily increased : an additional number of bales of cotton were t^ken to be applied to defend- ing the embrasures. A Frenchman, whose property had been thus, without his consent, seized, fearful of the injury it might sustain, proceeded in person to General Jackson, to reclaim it, and to demand its delivery. The general, having heard his complaint, and ascertained from him that he was unemployed ji any military service, directed a musket to be brought to him, and, placing it in his hand, ordered him on the line, remarking, at the same time, that, as he seemed to be a man possessed of property, he knew of none who had a better right to fight, to defend it. It was understood by Jackson, that the enemy were in daily expectation of re-enforcements ; though he rested with confidence in the belief, that a few more days would also bring to his assistance the troops from Kentucky. Each party, therefore, was constantly engaged in preparation, the one to wage a vigorous attack, the other to oppose it. The position of the American army wa« m the rear of an intrenchment formed of earth, which extended in a straight line from the river to a con uderable distance in the 0wamp. In front wu t tm or •sivsRAL jaciaom 171 deep ditch, which had been formerly used a« a mill- race. The Mississippi had receded, and left this dry, next the river, though in many places the water still remained. Along the line, at unequal distances, to the centre of General Carroll's com- mand, were guns mounted, of diffbrent caliber, from six to thirty-two pounders. Near the river, in ad- vance of the intrenchment, was a redoubt, with embrasures, commanding tlie road along the levee, calculated to rake the ditch in front. General Morgan was ordered, on the 24th of December, to cross to the west bank of the Missis- «ippi. From apprehension that an attempt might be made through Barrataria, and the city reached from the right bank, the general had extended his defence there : in fact, unacquainted with the ene- my's views, — not knowing the number of their troops, he had carefully divided out his forces, that he might be able to protect, in whatever direction an assault should be waged. His greatest fears, and hence his strongest defence, next to the one occu- pied by himself, was on the Chef Menteur road, where Governor Claiborne, at the head of the Louisiana militia, was posted. The position on the right was formed on the same plan with the line on the left, — lower down than that on the left^ extend ing to the swamp at right angles with the river Here General Morgan commanded. To be prepared against every possible contin gency, Jackson had established another line of de- fence, about two miles in the rear of tlie one a» present occupied, which was intended as a rallymg point, if driven from his first position. With the aid of his cavalry, to give a momentary check t* th« advance of the enemy, he expected to be e» Tf€ urm or gkneral lACKfoir. abled, with inconsiderable injury, to reach it ; whera he would again have advantages on his side, be in a situation to dispute a farther passage to the city, and arrest their progress. To inspirit his own soldiers, and to exhibit to the enemy as great a show as possible of strength and intended resist- ance, his unarmed troops, which constituted no very inconsiderable number, were here stationed. All intercourse between the lines, but by confiden- tial officers, was prohibited, and every vigilance em- ployed, not only to keep this want of preparation concealed from the enemy, but even from being known on his own lines. Occasional firing at a distance, which produc?a nothing of consequence, was all that marked the interim from the 1st to the 8th. On the 4th of this month, the long-expected re- enforcement from Kentucky, amounting to twenty- two hundred and fifty,* under Major-General Thomas, arnved at head-quarters ; but so ill provided witl arms, as to be mcapable of rendering any consider able service. The alacrity with which the citizen* of this state had proceeded to the frontiers, anc aided in the north-western campaigns, added to the disasters which ill-timed policy or misfortune had produced, had created such a drain, that arms were not to be procured. They had advanced, however, to their point of destination, with an expectation of being supplied on their arrival. About five hun- dred of them had muskets ; the rest were provided with guns, from which little or no advantage could be expected. The mayor of New Orleans, at the •request of General Jackson, had drawn from the city every weapon that could be found ; while the trriv&I of ihe Louisiana militia, in an equal! j un Idrm OP GENERAL JACKSON. 27** prepared situation, rendered it impossible foi the «vil to be effectually remedied. A boat, laden with arms, was somewhere on the rn er, intended for the ase of the lower country ; but where it was, or when it might arrive, rested alone on conjecture. Expresses had been despatched up the river, for three hundred miles, to hasten it on ; still there were no tidings of an approach. That so many Drave men should be compelled to stand w.'th fold- ed arras, unable to render the least possible service to their country, was an event, which did not fail to excite the sensibility of the general. His mind, prepared for any thing but despondency, sought re- lief in vain. No alternative was presented, but to place them at his intrenchment in the rear, conceal their actual condition, and, by the show they might make, add to his appearance, without at all increas- ing hia strength. Information was received, that Major-Genera] Lambert had joined the British commander-in-chief, with a considerable re-enforcement. It had been announced in the American camp, that additional forces were expected, and something decisive might be looked for, so soon as they should arrive. This circumstance, with others, had led to the conclusion that a few days more would, in ail probability, de- cide the fate of the city. It was more than evei necessary to keep concealed the situation of his army ; and, above all, to preserve as secret as pos- sible its unarmed condition. To restrict all com- munication, even with his own lines, was now, as danger increased, rendered more impurtanL None were permitted to leave the line, and none from crithout to pass into camp, but such as were to be impUcitly confided in. The line of eentinela wf 278 uwm OP asNiRAi. jacksom. HtrcDgthened in front, that none might paas .o the enemy, should desertion be attempted: yet, not- withsta^'idrng this precaution, his plans were dis- closed. On the night of the 6th, a soldier from the line, by some means, succeeded in eluding the vigilance of our sentinels. Early next morning his departure was discovered *. it was at once cor- rectly conjectured he had gone to the enemy, and would, no doubt, afford them all the information in his power. He unfolded to the British the situa- tion of the American line ; the late re-enforcements we had received, and the unarmed condition of many of the troops ; and, pointing to the centre of General Carroll's division as a place occupied by militia alone, recommended it aa tlie point where an attack might be most safely made. Other intelligence received was confirmatory of the belief of an impending attack. From some prisoners, taken on the lake, it was ascertained the enemy were busily engaged in deepening Villery's Canal, with a view of passing their boats and ord- nance to the Mississippi. During the 7th, a con- stant bustle was perceived in the British camp. Along the borders of the canal, their soldiers were continually in motion, marching and manoeuvring, foi no other purpose than to conceal those who were busily engaged at work in the reaT. To ascertain the ".ause of this uncommon stir, and learn their de- signs, as far as was practicable, Commodore Patter- son had proceeded down the river, on the opposite side, and, having gained a favourable position, in front of their encampment, discovered them to be actually engaged in deepening the passage to the river. It was no difficult matter to divine their pur- pose. No other conjecture could be ^tert&inedf LIFB OF GENERAL JACKSON. 279 than tlitt an assault was intended to be made od the line of defence commanded by General Mor gan ; which, if gained, would expose our troops on the left bank to the fire of the redoubt erected on the right; and in this way compel them to an abandonment of their position. To counteract this scheme was important ; and measures were imme- diately taken to prevent the execution of a plan, which, if successful, would be attended witli incal- culable dangers. An increased strength was given to this line. The second regiment of Louisiana militia, and four hundred Kentucky troops, were directed to be crossed over, to protect it. Owing to some delay in arming them, the latter, amount- ing, instead of four hundred, to but one hundred and eighty, did not arrive until the morning of the 8th. A little before day, they were despatched to aid an advanced party, who, under the command of Major Arnaut, had been sent to watch the move- ments of the enemy, and oppose their landing. The hopes indulged from their opposition were not realized ; and the enemy reached tlie shore. Morgan's position, besides being strengthened bj several brass twelves, was defended by a strong battery, mounting twenty-four pounders, directed by Commodore Patterson, which afforded additional security. The line itself was not strong, yet, if properly maintained by the troops selected to de- fend it, was believed fully adequate to the purposes of successful resistance. Late it night, Patterson ascertained the enemy had succeeded in passing their boats through tlie canal, and immediately communicated his information to the general. The commodore had formed the idea of dropping thf LotuMana schooner down, to attack and link them 24 S80 LUn OF GENERAL 3ACMMOM* This thought) though well conceived, wu ab&nilM^^ ed, from the danger involved, and from an appre- hension lest the batteries erected on the river, with which she would come in collision, might, by the aid of hot shot, succeed in blowing her up. It .vas preferred to await their arrival, believing it would be practicable, with the bravery of more than fifteen hundred men, and the slender advantages possessed from their line of defence, to maintain their position. On the left bank, where the general in person commanded, every thing was in readiness to meet die assault when it should be made. The redoubt on the levee was defended by a company of the seventh regiment, under the command of Lieuten- ant Ross. The regular troops occupied that part of the intrenchment next the river. General Car- roll's division was in the centre, supported by the Kentucky troops, under General John Adair ; while the extreme left, extending for a considerable dis- tance into the swamp, was protected by the brigade of General Coffee. How soon the attack would be waged was uncertain. General Jackson, un- moved by appearances, anxiously desired a con- test, which he believed would give a triumph to his arms, and terminate the hardships of his soldiers. Unremitting in exertion, and constantly vigilant, his precaution kept pace with the zeal and preparation of tho enemy. He seldom sin* : lie was always at his post, performing tiie auoi^a of Doth general and soldier. His sentinels were doubled, and extended as far as possible in the di- rection of the British camp ; while a considerable portion of the troops were constantly at the line, frith arms in their hands, ready to act when the fint alann ahould be gvrenL Uri or OINERAL JACKSON tSi For eig^ht days had the two armies lain upon the Mme field, and in view of each other, without any thing decisive on either side. Twice, since their landing, had the British columns essayed to effect by storm the execution of their plans, and twice had fkiled, and been compelled to relinquish the attempt It was not to be expected that things could long remain in this dubious state. The 8th of January at length arrived. The day dawned ; and the signals, intended to produce con- cert in the enemy's movements, were descried. On the left, near the swamp, a sky-rocket was per- ceived rising in the air ; and presently another as- cended from the right, next the river. They were intended to announce that all was ready, to carry by storm a defence which had twice foiled their ut- most efforts. Instantly the charge was made, and with such rapidity, that our soldiers, at the out- posts, with difficulty fled in. The British batteries, which had been demolished on the Ist of the month, had been re-established during the preceding night, and heavy pieces of cannon mounted, to aid in their intended operations. These now opened, and showers of bombs and balls were poured upon our line ; while the air waa light- ed with their congreve rockets. The two divisions, commanded by Sir Edward Packenham in person, and supported by Generals Keane and Gibbs, press- ed forward ; the right against the centre of Gene- ral Carroll's command, the left against our redoubt on the levee. A thick fog, that obscured the morn- ing, enabled them to approach within a short dis- tance of our intrenchment. before they were dis- covered. They were now perceived advancing with firm, qu'ck. and steady pace, in cdumo, wiUi Uri OP GENERAL JACKBON. & fVont of sixty or seventy deep. Our troops, who had for iome time been in readiness, gave three cheers, and instantly the w^hole line was lighted with the blaze of their fire. A burst of artillery and small arms, pouring with destructive aim upon them, mowed down their front, and arrested their advance. In our musketry tliere was not a mo- ment's intermission ; as one party discharged their pieces, another succeeded ; alternately loading and appearing, no pause could be perceived, — it was one continued volley. The colunms already per- ceived their dangerous situation. Battery No. 7, on the left, was ably served by Lieutenant Spotts, anr' g^alled them with an incessant fire. Batteries No. 6 and 8 were no less actively employed, and no less successful in felling them to the ground. Not- vrithstanding the severity of our fire, which few troops could for a moment have withstood, some of those brave men pressed on, and succeeded in gaining the ditch, in front of our works, where they remained during the action, and were afterwarr'jj made prisoners. The horror before them was loo great to be withstood ; and already were the Br.dsh troops seen wavering in their determination, and receding from the conflict. At this moment, Sir Edward Packenhara, hastening to the front, en- deavoured to inspire them wdth renewed zeal. His example was of short continuance ; he soon fell, mortally wounded, in the arms of his aid-de-camp, net far from our line. Generals Gibbs and Keane also fell, and were borne from the field, dangerous- ly wounded. At this moment. General Lambert, who wan advancing at a small distance in the rear, with the reserve, met the columns precipitately re- treating, and in great confusion. His eflforts to UWm OF OBNKRAL 14CM0N. ttt •top them were unavailing, — they continued re- treating, until they reached a ditch, at the distance of four hundred yards, where, a momentary Hafety being found, they were rallied, and halted. The field before them, over which they had ad vancod, was strewed with the dead and dying Danger hovered still around ; yet, urged and en- couraged by their officers, who feared their own disgrace involved in the failure, they again rao ed to the charge. They were already near enough to deploy, and were endeavouring to do so ; but the same constant and unremitted resistance that caused their first retreat continued yet unabated. Our batteries had never ceased their fire ; their constant discharges of grape and canister, and the fatal aim of our musketry, mowed down the front of the columns as fast as they could be formed. Satisfied nothing could be done, and that certain destruction awaited all further attempts, they forsook the field m disorder, leaving it almost entirely covered with the dead and wounded. It was in vain their offi- cers endeavoured to animate them to further resist- ance, and equally vain to attempt coercion. The panic produced from the dreadful repulse they had experienced ; the plain, on which they had acted being covered with innumerable bodies of theii countrymen ; while, with their most zealous exer tions, they had been unable to obtain the slightest advantage, — were circumstances well calculated tc make even the most submissive soldier oppose the authority that would have controlled him. The light companies of fusileers, the forty-third and ninety-tli rd regiments, and one hundred met from the West India regiment, led on by Colone Rennio, wore nrlered to proceed under cover re he wu honoured by Mr. Monroe with an- other appointment of higher political consequence. January 23d, 1823, General Jackson was appointed envoy eitraordinary and miniBter plenipotentiary to the government of Mexico. As an evidence that he had no knowledge of the intentions of the ex- ecutive, we find, on the let of the following March, in a respectful manner, he declined the offered mission. It has been generally understood that tliis was in consequence of the unsettled and dis- tracted state of Mexico, then under the control of Iturbide, who had declared himself emperor. The true motive, however, for declining tlie proffered honour, is to be found in the general's own words : ** From the present revolutionary state of Mexico, the appearance of an American envoy, with cre- dentials to the tyrant Iturbide, might add to hifl strength, and thereby aid him in riveting the chains of despotism upon that country, which of right ought to be free. To be the instrument of tyrannyy however innocent on my part, I could not recon- cile to my feelings. With these views, and other rea- sons, which I have communicated to Mr. Monroe, I have declined accepting the mission to Mexico." But a short time after, May 13th, the Mexican em- peror abdicated his throne, and made the best of his way from a country, which he had brought to the verge of ruin. General Jackson now retired to the quietude of private life, and, in the circle of his own family, sought that rest from the fatigues and countleoi anxieties of a military life, which his exhausted frame and spirits so obviously required. The con- fidence, however, which the citizens of Tennessee Aad in his talents and wisdom, was again manifeslf MC UPl OP OKNERAL lACKSON. •d ia eleeting him a senator to the eighteentk 30B- gresi, which assembled in December, 1823 and once more he resigned the endearments of home to mingle in the councils of the nation. On his route from Nashville to Washington, he was greeted by the most enthusiastic applause. The citizens of Knoxville, in a special manner, honoured their eel ebrated guest with a public dinner, and exhibited, in the strongest language, and in the most unequiv- ocal hospitality ,that they considered him a man of ex- traordinary talents, whose past services entitled him to the admiration and confidence of his country. During the session of congress, he entered with spirited interest into the general business of the nation, and was frequently on some of the most im- portant committees. As indefatigable in the sen- ate as in military command, he found that such un- remitted attention to public affairs, as his duty re- quired, to sustain the dignity of the station, waa al- together too severe for the delicate state of hi*, health. The political horizon, also, now began to present a different aspect, and the circumstance of his being a candidate for the presidential chair, without doubt, influenced him, to a considerable ex- tent, in resigning his seat in the senate. Soon af- ter the close of the session, he made known to his constituents the determination, and, in a few weeks, it was announced, to the sincere regret of all who knew the integrity of his character. In the person of General Jackson is perceived nothing of the robust or elegant. He is six feet and an inch high, remarkably straight and spare, and weighs not more than a hundred and forty-five pounds. His conformation appears to disqualify hun for hardship ; yet, accustomed to it from early L1F« OP GENERAL JACKSON. 381 life, few are capable of enduring fatigue to the game extent, or with less injury. His dark blue eyes, with brows arched and slightly projecting, possess a marked expression . at when, from any cause, excited, they sparkle with peculiar lustre and penetration. In his manners he is pleasing — in his address commanding ; while his countenance, mark- ed with firmness and decision, beams with a strength and intelligence that strikes at first sight. In Iiis deportment there is nothing repulsive. Easy, af- fable, and familiar, he is accessible to all. Influ- enced by the belief, that merit should constitute the only difference m men, his attention is equally be- stowed on honest poverty as on titled consequence. No man, however inconsiderable his standing, ever approached hun on business, that he did not patient- ly listen to his story, and afford hun all the informa- tion in his power. His moral character is without reproach, and by those who know him most inti- mately he IB most esteemed. Benevolence in him is a prominent virtue. He was never known to pass distress without seeking to assist and to relieve it It is unputed to him, that he derives from his birth a temper irritable and hasty, which has had the effect to create enemies, and involve him in dis- putes. In Jackson, however, these defects of cliar- acter exist to an extent as limited as with most men ; and the world is in error in prep^^ming him un- der a too high control of feeling and passion. A fix- ed devotion to those principles which honour sanc- tions, renders him scrupulously attentive to his promises and engagements of every description Preserving system in his moneyed transactions, hia fiscal arrangements are made to correspond with hia resources, and hence his every enga^^ement in 28* t&2 LIFE OF GENERAL lACKflON. relation to such subjects is met with marked punc- tuality, not for the reason that he is a man of ex- traordinary wealth, but rather because he has meth- od, and witli a view to his resources, regulates properly his balance of trade. No man has been more misconceived in charac ter. Many, on becoming acquainted with him, have been heard to admit the previous opinions whicli they had entertained, and how great liad been their mistake. Rough in appearance, positive and over- bearing in his manner, aie what all, upon a first in- troduction, expect to find ; and yet none are pos sessed of milder manners, or of more conciliating address. The public situations in which he haa been placed, and tlie circumstances which surround- ed him, are doubtless the cause that those opimons have become so prevalent ; but they are opinions which an acquamtance witii hhn tends to remove The diificulties under which he laboured at New Or- leans were such as might well have perplexed, and tiirown the mind aside from every thing of mildness. Light and trifLiig pleasantries often mark char- acter as distinctly as things of consequence. Gen- eral Jackson, one day during the siege of New Or- leans, was approached by an officer of the militia, who stated his desire to leave the service, and re- turn home ; for that he was made game of, and called by the company Pewter Foot. He manifest- ed great concern, and an anxious desire to be re- lieved from his impleasanL situation. The general, with aiuch apparent sympatliy for him, replied, that he had ascertained there was a practice in the camp of giving nick-names ; and had understood, too, that very many had dared to call him Old Hickory: 'Now," said he, "if you prefer mine, I am willing UFB OF GENBRAL JACKSON. 889 to exchange ; if not, re nain contented, and perform your duty faithfully, and, as soon as we can get clear of those troublesome British, our wrongs shall be inquired into by a court-martial, and the authors punished ; for then, and not till then, shall we have an end of those insults." The effect was happy, and induced the complaining officer to retire, per- fectly satisfied to learn, that his grievance would be united with the general's, and both ere long be effectually redressed General Jackson possesses ambition, but it rests on virtue ; an ambition, which, regulated by a liigh sense of honourable feeling, leads him to desire ** that applause which follows good actions — not that which is run afler." No man is more ready to hear and to respect the opinions of others, and none, where much is at stake, and at conflict with his own, less disposed to be under their influence. He has never been known to call a council of war, whose decisions, when made, were to shield him from responsibility or censure. His council of war, if doubting himself, was a few officers, in whom he fully confided, whose advice was regarded, if their reasons were conclusive ; but, these not being satis- factory, he at once adopted and pursued the course suggested by his ow i mind. At the battle of Tohopeka, an infant waa found piessed to the bosom of its lifeless mother. This circumstance being made known to General Jack- son, he became interested for the child, directed it to be brought to hi i, and sought to prevail on some of the Indian women to take care of and rear it They signified their unwillingness to do so, staling that, inasmuch as all its relations had fallen in bat- tle, they thought it best it should bo killed. Thfl 834 LIFE OF GENERAL JACSBON. General, after this disclosure, determined he ^ould not intrust it with them, but became himself the protector of the child. Bestowing on the infant the name of Lincoier, he adopted it into his family, and has ever since manifested the liveliest zeal to- waras it, prompted by benevolence, and because, perhaps, its fate bore a strong resemblance to his own, who, in early life, and from the ravages of war, was left in the world forlorn and wretched, without friends to assist, or near relations to direct him on his course. CONCLUSION. We have said before that one of the reasons that induced General J&ckson to resign his seat in the Senate was the circumstance of being a candidate for the Presidential chair. As long as he remained in the military service of his country, little was ever said about bringing him out for the presidency. It was only after he had become a private citizen that the eyes of his fellow-countrymen were turned towards him, as having eminently entitled himself, by his brilliant and patriotic services, to the highest honors within the gift of a free and enlightened peo- ple. His friends in Tennessee first, in good earnest, took the necessary steps to place his name promi- nently before the country. It is true that some four or five candidates were already in the field; but so confident were they of General Jackson's strength and popularity with the people, on account of his great public services, that they entertained LIFE OP OKNEBAL JAOKflOW. tM$ no fears for the result. On July 20, 1822, the Stat© Legislature adopted a preamble and resolutions which placed the General before the country as a legitimate candidate for the presidency, and from this moment his friends in every section of the Union entered into the contest with increased vigor and energy. Our space does not permit us to here give any detailed account of the spirited and exciting con- test which took place during this campaign, which resulted, after all, in there being no election, An- drew Jackson having received a plurality, but not a majority, of the votes cast. The vote stood as follows: Wm. H. Crawford, 41 ; Henry Clay, 37; Mr. Adams, 84 ; Andrew Jackson, 99. The people, therefore, having failed to elect a President, it devolved upon the House of Represen- tatives, voting by States, each State having one TOte, to elect one from the three candidates who had received the highest number of electoral votes. The great question was decided on the 9th of February, 1825. A long contest had been ex- pected, and the friends of Crawford were present in great force, hoping that the House, after weary- ing itself by repeated ballots, would turn to their candidate and end the affair by giving him the election. The result, when announced by the tellers, sur- prised almost every one; surprised many of the best-informed politicians who heard it. Upon the first ballot Mr. Adams received the vote of thirteen States, which was a majority. Crawford received the vote of four States, and General Jackson, for whom eleven States had given an electoral major- W XJIS 07 GUnULLL JAOKMOM, itjf receired the vote of but seven St&tet la tkt House. That General Jackson was not only disappomted at the result, but indignant, is well known ; but he loftily acquiesced in his defeat, and was prominent among the congratulatory throng on the occasion of the inauguration of the new President. A few days afterwards General Jackson returned to his home, and was welcomed by his native State as conquerors are welcomed. From the moment that the result of the election in the House of Representatives was known, the Jackson party resolved to make General Jackson a candidate for renomination for 1829. In Octo- ber, 1825, only seven months after the inaugura- tion, the Legislature of Tennessee passed a resolu- tion "recommending him to the freemen of the United States, to be elected to the office of the Chief Magistrate of this Union, at the next Presi- dential election." In May, 1826, the nomination was indorsed by an immense public meeting in Philadelphia, and in November of the same year a powerful movement in his behalf was begun in Georgia. Long before the usual time of beginning the quadrennial agitation, he was placed before the people in most of the States as the candidate for the presidency, in opposition to the re-election of Mr. Adams. During the next three years General Jackson, who had resigned his seat in the Senate of the United States, was the central figure in an extra- ordinary number of receptions and public dinners. He could hardly stir abroad without finding a committee lying in wait for him, who would take £IFB OF OEKElLiL JAOKIOir. |87 possession of him bodily, convey him to some public hall, and get him to make a speech. We must now go back a little to touch briefly upon the reasons that had induced General Jack- son to leave Washington after the election in the House of Representatives, which had ended so dis- astrously for his expectations. It was well known that the infuence of Henry Clay, which he wielded in the House, derived from his long connection with it, from his winning cast of character, from his strenuous will, and his eloquence, placed it in his power to give the election to whichever of the candidates he preferred. Mr. Clay was not on cordial terms with either of the two highest candi- dates. The considerations that ought to have in- fluenced his decision should have been purely founded on the principles of his party and of the Constitution, and not on the comparative fitness of the candidates. The one that had come nearest to an election by the people was obviously the one for whom a truly Democratic member of Congress would have given his vote. ■ This republic was set up on a certain principle, and the spirit of that principle required that Andrew Jackson should have been elected President. The principle may be wrong, but the Republican party obtained power, and for twenty-five years retained the su- premacy, because it thought the fundamental prin- ciple of the government right, feasible, and safe. But Mr. Clay did not think so. Though he ac- knowledged that "he would never have selected Mr. Adams, if he had been at liberty to draw from the whole mass of our citizens for a President," he declared to confidential friends, before the result 88S urm or oekek^il jagkbov. of the popular election was known, that under no circumstances whatever would he vote for General Jackson. The appointment of Mr. Clay as Secre- tary of State, after his inauguration, at once raised the suspicion that there had been a corrupt under- standing between Mr. Clay and Mr. Adams, to the eflfect that Clay should make Adams President on condition that Adams should appoint Clay Secre- tary of State. General Jackson, whose failing it was to be always too prone to believe evil of those who opposed him, was fully convinced that this was true, and this " bargain and corruption cry " was the most telling card of the Jackson party in the campaign of 1828. And they kept it ringing, too. Yet no cry however telling, no enthusiasm however wild and general, ever carried a presiden- tial election, nor ever will. The union of a power- ful Southern interest with a respectable Northern one, or vice versa, has always been deemed essential to success by knowing poliiicians. General Jack- son, as a candidate for the presidency, was nothing, in 1824, till Pennsylvania took him, and he would have been elected then, if New York had only joined Pennsylvania. It was now necessary to get New York into line for the campaign of 1828. Martin Van Buren was the man on whom the question of securing New York rested. He was a Senator of the United States, and was elected to a second term, in 1827, by a large majority. The sudden death of Governor Clinton, in 1828, re- moved from the scene the only man in New York that could be considered Mr. Van Buren's com- petitor, and left him undisputed master of the sit- uation. Lon OT •xiirsmi.L jxckmv. 899 Mr. Van Buren had early taken sides against the administration of Mr. Adams, and maintained the attitude of opposition to the end. This, of course, involved the support of General Jackson in 1828, for there was no other man in the country who had the remotest chance of carrying the day against the administration. The resolution of Mr. Van Buren to support Gen- eral Jackson was formed, it is said, as early as the year 1825 ; but he kept that resolution to himself, and enjoined the same reticence upon his confi- dants. After the re-election of Mr. Van Buren to the United States Senate, more freedom was tol- erated in the expression of opinions favorable to Jackson and adverse to Adams ; but it was not until late in 1827 that the Democratic party came out plainly for General Jackson. Then all the machinery, the construction of which had for two years put in requisition the skill and ingenuity of Mr. Van Buren and his friends, was suddenly put in motion, and the eifect was prodigious. The friends of the administration were not alarmed; Mr. Clay was not, and Mr. Adams ex- pected a re-election. The campaign of 1828 opened with a stunning flourish of trumpets. Louisiana, like New York, was a doubtful and troublesome State. It was highly desirable that its scattering vote of 1824 should be concentrated in 1828, and this could only be managed by getting up an enthusiasm. In 1827, the Legislature of Louisiana invited him to visit New Orleans, and unite with them in the celebration of the 8th of January, 1828, on the scene of his great victory. General Jackson accepted, and his reception WM 29 MO lilFS OF GEITEBAL JACKSOV. the most stapendous thing of the kind that had ever, up to that time, occurred in the United States. Delegates of States as distant as New York were sent to New Orleans to swell the eclat of the demon- stration. The campaign had now fairly set in. During the rest of the year, the country rang, from one end to the other, with the names of Jackson and Cal- houn, and Adams and Rush. The contest during this final year became chiefly one of personalities. Against Mr. Adams, every possible change was rung of bargain and corruption. He was accused of federalism, haughtiness, selfishness, and extrava- gant expenditures. General Jackson was accused of every crime, offence, and impropriety that man was ever known to be guilty of, not even sparing the peculiar circumstances of his marriage, nor the memory of his mother; then resting in her grave. We have not space here to give any account of the electioneering tactics on both sides; but the fol- lowing characteristic paragraph, written by one who was then commencing his literary career, and who subsequently became known far and wide in con- nection with the New York Herald, — James Gordon Bennett, — will give a good idea of the attacks that were made on General Jackson. " The impotency of the attacks which have been made on General Jackson during the campaign by the Adams party, reminds us of an anecdote. 'Mother,* bawled out a girl, one day, 'my toe itches 1' 'Well, scratch it then!' *I have; but it won't stay scratched.' ' Mr. Clay, Mr. Clay/ cries out Uncle Toby, 'Jackson 's a-coming — Jack- son 'a a coming I' 'Well, then, anti- tariff him in LUTE or aSlfrXBAL JJlCKBOJS, Wl the Journal.* *1 have; but he won'i OF GEBEBAL JAOKIOM. gift with a scrupulous conscientiousness which ii most delightful to observe. Washington set a noble example. During his administration of eight years, he only removed nine persons from office, all for good and sufficient cause, with which politics had nothing whatever to do. The example of Washington was followed by his successors, and up to the hour of the delivery of General Jack- son's inaugural address, it was supposed that he, too, would act upon the principles of his predeces- sors. But the sun had not gone down upon the day of his inauguration when it was known in all offi- cial circles that there would be a removal from office of all who had conspicuously opposed, and an appointment to office of those who had con- spicuously aided, the election of the new President. The work was promptly begun, and soon there was a reign of terror all over Washington. The great body of officials awaited their fate in silent dread, and so numerous were the removals that the busi- ness of the place became paralyzed. In fact, the old system of appointments and removals was changed, from the accession of General Jackson, to the one in vogue ever since, which has been aptly described as " to the victor belong the spoils." It is not our intention here to enter into any dis- cussion regarding the evils of this system, which are but too apparent to every one — a system which renders pure, decent, and orderly government al- most impossible. The course of the administration with regard to removals caused so loud and general a clamor as to inspire the opposition with new hopes. The old Federalists who had supported General Jackson Xg» winning, and Wedding.— Showmg Kw maidens nmy become happy wifes, and bachelors become happy '^v /^ »n a brief space of time and by easy methoda. Also containmg complete directions for declaring intentions, accepting vowa, and retain- ing affections, both before and after marriage. CHOICE VERSES FOR VALEN- t'r.,®*.?' Albums, and Wedding Cele- brations.— Contammg ongmal ancf* selected verses apphcable to wooden, tin, silver, golden, end oiamond wedding anniversaries; bouquet and binhday presentations, autograph-album verses ana acrostics, and a variety of verses and poems adapted to social anniversaries and rejoicings. eJ^I ^^-^^Ph^. REFERENCE- BOOK.— A manual of tacts, contaimng a chron- ological history of ths United States; the public lands; everjthing about the constitution, debts, revenues, productions, wealth, population, rail- roads, exemption, interest, insolvent and assign- ment statutes of the United States, &c. ♦^'^Y. J® COWPOSITION: or,How to Write a Book.— a complete guide to au- thorship,and practical instructer in all kinds of lit- erary labor. As an aid and instructer to those who ftesire to follow literary pursuits permanently for jofit, or to those who write for recreation and ieasure, this book is indispensable. -.P.XJWNASTICS WITHOUT A TEACHER.- This book "laiRly"expTaiS8 tS you iiow to go about learning all the popular brenches of gj-mnastics. Every man and boy ought to learu the different exercises described in tlUB book, if he wishes to live a healthy life and presei^e a sound and vigorous body, a sharp eye. and 8il)ple limbs. *- j^ «f9ferS^N^''°E*-,*-GLISH LAKGUAGE that enters into speech or writing. THE SPELLING of ear:h word is precisely that given by the best authorities. THE DEFIMTIOXS are compiled from a majority of the best writers of th English language. THE PROM">'tTATIOJi' of every word is that settled upon by the ablest masters of this most im> ^ortant branch of Grammar. In addition to the perfectionsof this work as a Dictionary, it contains a yast amount:of information ■pon MANY K'.XPS OF TSEFUL KXOWLEDGE not to be found in any similar work; but all ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY to every one who wishes to be acquainted with the leading subjects of co»- yersation and composition. By reference to the annexed TABLE OF* COXTENTS it will be found that the bookiis really a co» eise and portable Cyclopedia of very useful and valuable information. From it a speaker or writer can jlean an amount of real knowledge impossible to find elsewhere collected in one book, THE AMERICAN POPULAR DICTIOSARYis printed from new tj-pe, with extra clear and leglkl* &ce. It is.boand very strongly and neatly. TABI^B OF* 1. A Complote Dictionary of the Eng. Language. 5. A Complete List of Seriptnre Proper Names, including Apocryphai and their pronimcia- tion. » i. American GoographScal Names, with their der- ivation, signification, and their pronuncia- tion. 4. Nicknames of tho States and Cities of the U. S. i. The Discovery and Discoverers of America. 6. The Aborigines of North America, showing their tribes, location and number. 7. Early Settlers and Settlements of the United States— niitioQAlity, location, date, 8. Troops of the American Revolation,euoWing the number each Si..">te furnislied. 9. Battles and Losses of tlio RevolutioH. 10. The Declaration of Independence. 11. Th« Signers of the Declaration of Independ- ence. la. The Prc-ldots of the Continental Congress, 13. Constitution of the United States. li. History of tho American Flag. 15. Area and Pupul.ition of the United States. 16. I'opulution of fill Cities and Towns in the U. S. having a population of over 10,000. 17. Growth of American Citier having a popula- tion of 50,000 and iipwat I. 18. Public Dpbt of the United 8tate»,1791 to 1879. la. The Amount of Paper Jloncy in the United States, of each dcnominalion. 20. AiinlyHls of the Publie Debt of the United 21. United State* Public Lands— where they lie. 2«. Tho Un:»?d States Public Land System. 88, Free Home-.teuds on the Public Lands, or bow to«fciir»a homestead. 54. Howetite.t^ tkad £oics and Quotations, and an Account of the Author's Idfe, translated into Entiislx >y ChAILLES COLTOiT, Eso. fiOMNGBROKE ON THE STUDY AND USE OFHISTOE.Y. slijogt HUMS'S ESSAYS. ESSAYS,— MTERARY, MORAli/AND POUTICAIi. By David Hum* (tLo historiaxL). SIDNEY SMITH'S ESSAYS. ESSAYS,^ SOCIAL AND POLITICAL. By Rev. Sidney Smith, MILMAN^S HISTORY OF THE JEWS. HISTORY OP THE JEWS. By H. H. Milman, D.D., late Bean of St. iPaul'a, HALLAM'S EUROPE. YIEW OF THE STATE OP EUROPE DURING THE MIDDUE AGES. ByHENET Hallam, LL.D., F.R,A.S. LOCKE ON THE HUMAN UNDERSTANDING. AN ESSAY CONCERNING THE HUMAN UNDERSTANDING. By John Locks. With the Notes and Illustrations of the author, and an Analysis of his Doctrine of Ideas. Also, Questions on Locke's Essay, for the use of students. D'AUBIGNE'S HISTORY OF THE REFORMATION. THE HISTORY OP THE REPORIVIATION OF THE SIXTEENTH CENTURY, from its commencement to the days of Calvin. By J. H. Meklb D'AUBIGNE, D.D. Translated from the author's lato French edition- Mn.TON'S EARLY BRITAIN, &c. BRITAIN XJN1>EK TROJAN, ROMAN, AND SAXON RULE. By JoHir MrarON. E:-iG"LA;jJTD under RICHARD m. Vr Pir TnoiiAS MoEE. THE REIGN OP HENRY VIL By Lord Bacon. Three books bound in one volume. ESSAYS ON BEAUTY AND TASTE, ESSAY ON BEAUTY. By Franois [Lord! Jeffeey ESSAY OH TASTE. By Archibald AiiisoN, LL.D. The two books in one volume. nSTBHENTU MUSIC HADE EAST. INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC SELF-IKSTEUC'TOES. Music Without a Teacher. Each of the following Booka for teaching Instrumental Music is perfect in every way, and from them anyone with a taste for 'Concord of Sweet Sounds" can become an accompliehei Musician in a short time, on any of the Instnt* ments enumerated. Piano Without a Teaclier. 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