9. Captain Braxton Bragg gained great credit for his conduct at the battle of Buena Vista, where, with a single battery of light artillery, he resisted the attack of a large force upon General Taylor's left flank, and thus prevented a movement that would otherwise have caused the immediate retreat and probable destruction of the American army. 10. The smoke was so dense in this action that Captain Bragg was able to place his battery within fifty yards of the advancing column. He gave the foe a round of double canister shot, which opened great gaps in their ranks. They staggered and recoiled under this murderous fire. When the delighted American commander saw that the battle was won, he arose in his stirrups and joyfully shouted: "Give them a little more grape, Captain Bragg!" 11. Major Samuel McRee, of Wilmington, rendered valuable service as Quartermaster in the army under General Scott. Captain J. H. K. Burgwin, of the first United States Dragoons, died of his wounds at Taos. Lieutenant James G. Martin lost an arm and gained a brevet at Churusbusco. Captains T. H. Holmes and Gabriel Rains, and Lieutenant F. T. Bryan, all gave valuable and recognized service in the two columns under Generals Scott and Taylor. QUESTIONS. 1. What period have we now reached? Who were Governors at this time? What is said of Governor John Branch? 2. What mention is made of the candidates for Governor? 3. What deaths of prominent men occurred about this period? 4. What Governor was elected in 1844? How was he beloved in the State? 5. What troubles arose in national matters on the election of James K. Polk? 6. What is said, of his visit to the University? Of what State was President Polk a native? How was his nomination announced? 7. Can you mention the North Carolina troops sent to Mexico, and their commanders? 8. Tell something about Major Louis D. Wilson. 9. What valiant officer was with General Taylor at Buena Vista? Give an account of his timely aid to the American army. 10. Describe the action. 11. What other officers are spoken of? CHAPTER LI. THE NORTH CAROLINA RAILWAY AND THE ASYLUMS. A. D. 1845. No single year in human records has been more prolific of change and social advancement than that which witnessed the overthrow of King Louis Phillipe in France and the general upheaval of all Europe. It seemed that the spirits of the sixteenth century had revisited the earth, and that men were everywhere resolved on revolution or amendment. 1848. 2. North Carolina formed no exception to this general impulse of Christendom. A wise and patriotic disregard of old sectional and party traditions first led to the assumption by the State of a controlling part in the great work of internal improvement. The railroads that had been previously constructed from different points to Roanoke River, were all in a deplorable condition.