itself, is a regular fortification, and with some important improvements and repairs, may not ultimately require San Juan de Ulua to defend it from assault. These two strongholds, combined, under the command of skilful generals and garrisoned with efficient soldiers, would offer a churlish welcome to any modern power either maritime or military. Their seizure, during the winter months of tempest, would be almost impossible, and their occupation, during the summer would be as fatal, as was unfortunately proved by our troops in the June, July, and August, after the brilliant siege and inglorious surrender.
The following tabular sketch prepared from Ministerial reports, exhibits the condition of the Mexican forces at this epoch.
| Tabular View of the Re-organization of the Mexican Army in 1849. | |
|---|---|
| STAFF OF THE ARMY. | |
| 12 Generals of divisions. 34 Brigadier generals. 4 Colonels. 5 Lieutenant Colonels. 1 Commandant of battalion. | 13 Captains. 8 Lieutenants and 2d adjudants. 3 Ensigns. — 80 Total. |
| ENGINEER CORPS. 1 Brigadier general. 2 Colonels. 4 Lieutenant colonels. 8 Captains. — 15 Total. | MEDICAL STAFF, ACCORDING TO LAW. 1 Inspector. 1 Director of hospital. 8 Hospital professors. 40 Surgeons. 40 1st assistant surgeons. 40 2d " " 30 Apprentices. 18 Surgeons for military colonies. 2 Ambulance companies. |