Chapter II: Rivas, June Twenty-Ninth, 1855

Preparations for the Rivas Expedition—Native Troops—Ramirez and
Mariano Mendez—Maximo Espinosa-Departure from Realejo—Landing
at El Gigante—Difficulties of the March—Appearance of the
Camp—Skirmish at Tola—March from Tola to Rivas—Effect
of Scenery on the Americans—Plan of Attack—Action at
Rivas—Desertion of Ramirez—Loss of the Americans—Retreat to
San Juan del Sur—Embarkation on the Schooner San José—Burning
of the Cuartel—Departure for Realejo—Execution of Dewey—Its
Effects on the People—Transfer to the Vesta and Return to
Realejo—Despatch to Castellon—His Reply-Visit of Mariano
Salazar—Castellon’s Anxiety—Americans at Chinandega—Cole
and Von Natzmer—March to Leon—Arrival there—State of the
Capital—Policy of Muñoz—Danger to the Falange—Necessity for
Caution—Counter-march to Chinandega—New Contract with Castellon PAGE 42