Zenas Matthews' 1846 U.S.-Mexico War Diary and Service Papers

Saturday July 4th 1846 This Morning we heard the firing of the guns at Matamoras in celebration of the aniversary of American Indipen dence. At 4 oclock we met at the Governer Hendersen's tent where Genl [?] after a few prelimina ry remarks read the declaration of Independence. Doctor Ashbel Smith followed with a very good speech When done Wm Scurry was called on unanimously and made a very beautifull and flowery oration amid the acclimations of the audience Mr [?] of Virginia was then called on and delivered a short oration when the meeting was dismissed. Capt Green presided. Today we have a fine breeze, but for several days it had been very hot. We have had 8 or 10 new recruits in our company in the last few days This evening we had volunters sing and speeches with which we spent the evening very pleasantly. July 9th 1846 Went to Point Isabel for the purpose of procuring Leon a [convey?] and to [Galveston?] for being sick and the Surgeon advises his return home. There being no [steamers?] in I failed in procuring