of the city and the other
through a gate of the same name. These roads run parallel to each
other, about three fourths of a mile apart. On the 9th, General Scott,
accompanied by Captain R.E. Lee, made an examination of the works near
the San Antonio gate, where they discovered Mexican soldiers busily at
work. On the 9th Riley took position to the right of Piedad, and was
joined on the 11th by Smith's brigade and Francis Taylor's and Edward
James Steptoe's batteries.

An advanced post of the enemy was evacuated on the approach of the
Americans on the night of the 9th and occupied; this force was
strengthened by both infantry and artillery, and a bridge was thrown
over a ditch in front of it for the passage of cannon. Colonel Harvey,
on the night of the 10th, occupied Mexcoac with the Second Dragoons
for the purpose of protecting the hospitals and stores there. General
Scott called a meeting of his general officers and informed them of
his plan of attack. He had determined to attack either the San Antonio
Garita or Chapultepec and the western gates. After hearing the
opinions of his officers, who differed on the place of attack, General
Scott determined to make the movement on Chapultepec and the western
gate, and he so announced.

A reconnoissance was made on the morning of the 11th, with a view to
the location of the batteries. The locations selected by Captain
Huger, who was sent for the purpose, were adopted. The division of
Quitman was ordered to unite with Pillow near Piedad in the evening,
and after nightfall both divisions were to move to Tacubaya. Twiggs
was ordered to remain in front of the southern gates and divert the
enemy's attention.

Major Sumner with seven companies was to march at daylight and join
Pillow. Chapultepec is a natural fortification, rising one hundred and
fifty feet above the valley. A large building, the Military School, is
on its summit, and it is bounded on the west by the Molino del Rey.
The grounds are surrounded by a thick wall some fifteen feet in
height. It is situated two miles from the Belen gate, and was regarded
as the key to the city. The officer in command was General D.
Nicholas Bravo, an officer of skill, distinction, and courage. Second
in command was General D. Mariano Monterde. The chief of engineers was
D. Juan Cano, and D. Manuel Gamboa commandant of artillery. Generals
Noriega and Perez were afterward attached to the command. The orders
of the 11th to Quitman and Pi