CHAPTER XVI. Government determines upon making Vera Cruz the base of a new Line of Operations-Vera Cruz-Description of the City-San Juan d'Ulloa-By whom founded-Description of the Fortress-Its Capture by Acle, Lorencillo, and Bodin-Taylor notified of the intention to reduce his Force-Scott ordered to Mexico-Reaches the Rio Grande-Appoints the Island of Lobos as the place of Rendezvous-Description of Lobos-The Arrival of Volunteers-Reconnoissance by Scott and Conner-Preparations for Disembarking upon the Beach at Vera Cruz-Disembarkation of the Troops-Investment of the City-Gallant co-operation of the Navy-Skirmishes with the Enemy-Investment completed -Scott's Despatch to the War Department-The Batteries opened-Skirmish at Puenta del Medio-Harney's brilliant affair at Medellin-Overtures for the Surrender of Vera Cruz and San Juan d'Ulloa-Commissioners appointed-Ceremony of Capitulation-Scott's Despatch to the War Department-Alvarado -Effects of the Bombardment of Vera Cruz. WITH the capture of Monterey ended the campaign of 1846. But before this brilliant achievement took place, it became evident to the government, that another and even more effective column of invasion would be required to operate from a point affording a nearer approach to the Mexican capital. General Santa Anna, whose return from exile had been connived at by our government, so far from distracting the Mexican people by internal dissensions, or inclining them to more peaceful views, had succeeded in allaying the feuds of opposing parties, and in rousing and uniting all classes to a more vigorous prosecution of the war. Finding all hope of reasonable accommodation cut off by this untoward state of things, a new and shorter line was determined on, striking into the heart of the enemy's possessions. While the |