Carreon to The General Second Commander in Chief of the Eastern Line, May 15, 1866

[Translation.]

MEXICAN REPUBLIC—EASTERN LINE—INFANTRY SECTION.

After reconnoitring Tlacotalpam on the 9th, wishing to drive the enemy out, I moved a part of my forces yesterday, with a column of cavalry under Colonel Gomez, upon that city, forming two columns of infantry under Lieutenant Colonels Diaz, Lagos, and Ariza.

My schemes were frustrated; for the enemy retreated as soon as our forces appeared, and burned all the houses behind him. He did this to discover our number, for it was not yet day.

The imperialists took refuge in their limited fortifications, and on board the four French war steamers, that instantly opened fire upon us. It did not frighten our soldiers, for they advanced almost to the parapets of the forts.

At four o’clock in the morning, while this was going on, several of the enemy’s soldiers came over to our side.

My sole object was to draw the enemy out of his trenches to an open field fight; but failing in that, I ordered the retreat of the attacking columns at six in the morning, by the national road, in sight of the enemy on land and on the boats.

Knowing the enemy in the town depended on his large artillery and the steamers moored in the river, and had not the courage to come out, I continued to annoy him; and this I will continue, informing you of the result.