McClellan, George Brinton (1826-1885) Orders no 25
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08953.02 Author/Creator: McClellan, George Brinton (1826-1885) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph document signed Date: 4 May 1847 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 25.5 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy
Orders his men to "lead the march to the enemy capital," of Mexico City, during the Mexican War. Warns his men not to straggle as "The impotent & cowardly enemy propose to wage the war of the assassin - war to the knife." Promises that soon they will recieve new clothing, rest and payment. It is clear that the weather has made many of McClellan's men sick and weak. Also signed by McClellan for Major General Worth.
"The Divn. is to resume and lead the march of the Army in direction of the capital of the Enemy. The impotent & cowardly enemy propose to wage the war of the assassin - war to the knife. Woe be him who straggles from his ranks - the soldier is hereby admonished & all officers commanded to regulate all marches, (except in pursuit) in respect to halts & distances so that the feeblest may with reasonable energy, keep up his ranks, the advance and rear guards that no man on any pretence be permitted to pass by the former or lag in rear of the latter. Such as are really sick will be properly disposed of by the medical officers - even if baggage have to be discarded. The indolent, if any such there be, compelled to march on. A few marches, and perhaps another victory, brings us to a more genial climate. The Genl. in Chief has ordered clothing, & at the first halt, for several days the troops are to be paid off & it is hoped under circumstances giving timely comfort & gratification to the soldier.
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