aid, Captain Austin, rode to the bank of the
creek towards the right of their line of works, and examined
them. I was induced by their report, the lateness of the hour,
and the advice of General Scott and Major Wood, to order the
forces to retire to camp.

My most difficult duty remains to be performed; I am (p. 207)
depressed with the fear of not being able to do justice to my
brave companions in arms, and apprehensive, that some who had an
opportunity of distinguishing themselves, and promptly embraced
it, will escape my notice.

Brigadier-General Scott is entitled to the highest praise our
country can bestow: to him, more than any other man, I am
indebted for the victory of the 5th of July. His brigade has
covered itself with glory. Every officer and every man of the 9th
and 22d, 11th and 15th regiments _did his duty_ with a zeal and
energy worthy of the American character. When every officer
stands so pre-eminently high in the path of his duty and honour,
it is impossible to discriminate, but I cannot deprive myself of
the pleasure of saying, that Major Leavenworth commanded the 9th
and 22d, Major Jessup the 25th, and Major McNeil the 11th.
Colonel Campbell was wounded early in the action, gallantly
leading on his regiment.

The family of General Scott were conspicuous in the field;
Lieutenant Smith of the 6th infantry, major of brigade, and
Lieutenants Worth and Watts his aids.

From General Ripley and his brigade, I received every assistance
that I gave them an opportunity of rendering. I did not order any
part of the reserve into action until General Porter's command
had given way, and then General Scott's movements were so rapid
and decisive, that General Ripley could not get up in time with
the 21st, to the position as directed. The corps of artillery
under Major Hindman were not generally in action; this was not
their fault. Captain Towson's company was the only one that had a
full opportunity of distinguishing itself, and it is believed
that no company ever embraced an opportunity with more zeal or
more success.

A detachment from the 2d brigade under the command of
Lieutenant-Colonel McDonald, penetrated the woods with the
Indians and volunteers, and for their support. The conduct of
McDonald and his