His military genius.

executed the obnoxious measure, as a benefactor and friend who had saved them from entire destruction.

His country found his services invaluable in the settlement of the Maine boundary question. When he was ordered to command the invading army in Mexico, he obeyed the call with his usual promptness, notwithstanding a coolness that had existed for some time between him and the government. From his landing at Vera Cruz till the capture of the capital, his history has been detailed in the preceding pages. Where the danger is greatest he is always to be found, regardless of his life, and only anxious for the safety of his men. Walking along the trenches at Vera Cruz, in full range of the enemy's guns, he noticed the soldiers rise frequently and look over the parapet. "Down, down, men," he exclaimed, "don't expose yourselves." "But, general, you are exposed." "Oh," he replied, "generals now-a-days can be made out of any body, men cannot be had."

His military genius and foresight has shown out conspicuously during his last campaign. With signal tact he planned the details of all his battles, and prepared with prophetic eye to follow up his victories even before they were gained. In a few short weeks, in the face of gloomy apprehensions and predictions, he seizes the impregnable key to the high road to the capital, storms the Thermopyla of the country, and consummates the work by an achievement, that it is impossible to overrate, the taking of the capital. All honour to Scott, his officers, and his men.

ENERAL SHIELDS, one of the most distinguished of all our officers in the Mexican war, is a native of Ireland, but emigrated to this country in early life. Like many of his countrymen, he took a warm interest in our struggle with Great Britain, and entered the army as second lieutenant, 11th infantry, September 1st, 1814. He appears to have served with credit during the war, but left the service soon after its close. The history of his life from this time until the opening of the Mexican war, is lost in the