The reserves will be composed of the battalions of Sappers and Miners and five companies of the Grenadiers of the Matamoras, Jimenez, and Aldamas battalions of regulars, and of the Toluca and San Luis battalions of volunteers. The reserve will be commanded by the General-in-Chief (Santa Anna) in person, at the time of making the attack, but these forces will be organized by Colonel Don Agustin Amat, under whose control they will remain from this evening, and who will conduct them to the point which will be designated to him at the proper time. The first column will be provided with ten scaling-ladders, two crowbars, and two axes; the second will be provided with the same quantity; the third with six, and the fourth with two. The men carrying ladders will sling their guns over their shoulders, so as to leave them entirely free to place their ladders wherever directed. Grenadier and Cavalry companies will be supplied with six packages of cartridges to the man; the infantry company with four, with two extra flints. The latter will not be encumbered with overcoats, blankets, or anything which will prevent rapidity in their movements. All caps will be provided with chin-straps. Corps commanders will pay particular attention to this provision, and are also required to see that their men are provided with shoes or other covering for their feet. The men of the attacking column will retire to rest at sundown, preparatory to moving at midnight. Men not well drilled will remain at their quarters. All arms, particularly bayonets, must be put into the best condition. At the rising of the moon the riflemen of the San Luis reserve battalion of volunteers will retire to their quarters, leaving the points they cover along the line, and will thereupon put their equipage in readiness. The cavalry, under command of General Don Ramirez y Sesma, will occupy the Alameda, and saddle up at three o’clock in the morning. Their duty will be to prevent the escape of any of the enemy and to watch the camp. The honor of the nation and of the army being involved in the contest with the desperate foreigners in our front, His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief expects that each man will perform his duty and contribute his share in securing a day of glory for his country, and of honor to the Federal Government, which will be proud to honor the brave men who shall distinguish themselves by feats of valor. By command: JUAN VALENTINE AMADOR. XXIII. THE MEXICANS’ CHARGE