The Life of Gen. Andrew Jackson; With an Appendix Containing the Most Important of His State Papers (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1847. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... THE AMERICANS FORTIFY THEIR POSITION. CHAPTERi DEGREESVIIL) 1814. The Americans fortify their position--Jackson's peremptory orders to Major Lacoste--Defence of the Pass Barrataria--Captain Lafitte--Attack made by the British on the 28th of December --Defensive preparations hastened--Death of Colonel Henderson-- Disaffection in New Orleans--Information communicated to the British fleet--Stratagem of Mr. Shields--Conduct of the Louisiana legislature--Patriotic reply of Jackson to the committee--Attempt to supply his troops with arms--Gallantry of Colonel Hinds--Cannonade on the 1st of January--Position of the American army-- Jackson's orders to the Frenchman to defend his property--Defences on the right bank of the river--Caution of Jackson in concealing the number of his troops. 1815. The distinguishing traits in the character of General Jackson, as a military commander, were Hejtrjhgaded sagacity, promptness ofdecision, and rapidity of execution. HeTlktfno sooner resolved on the course which he thought necessary to be pursued, than he hastened with all possible dispatch, to secure its completion. After the engagement with the British on the night of the 23d of December, it was evident to his mind that it would be exceedingly unwise" to risk an encounter with the enemy, in an open field, at the head of an inferior, undisciplined, and unarmed force. He conceived, therefore, that a defensive policy was the most judicious, and that by prudence and caution he would be able to preserve what might be endangered by any offensive movement. Hence, he determined to fortify himself as effectually as the peril and exigencies of the moment would permit. When to expect an attack, he could not tell; preparation and readiness to meet it, were for him to determine upon; all else was fo...