Preparations were now made for an advance and the capture of the capital.  The pursuit of the retreating enemy was followed on two roads leading to the city, and there was considerable desultory fighting.  At 1 o’clock A.M. on the 14th a deputation of citizens arrived at General Worth’s headquarters, who were sent by him, under charge of Major William W. Mackall, to General Scott’s headquarters.  They reported that General Santa Anna had fled from the city, leaving it with the civil authorities, and they came to ask favorable terms of surrender.  General Scott declined to make any terms with them, telling them that the city had practically been in his possession from the day before; that he would levy a moderate tax, and would be governed by no terms except his own and such only as the honor and dignity of the United States would require.  Early on the morning of the 14th a white flag was displayed at the Garita de Belen, and General Quitman was requested to take possession, as the city had been evacuated by the Mexican army.  Leaving a guard at the Belen gate, General Quitman marched his command and took possession of the citadel.  Leaving the Second Pennsylvania Regiment at the citadel, he marched to the Grand Plaza, followed by Steptoe’s battery.  The Marine Battalion was placed in the National Palace, and the American flag was hoisted from its summit.  Lieutenant G.T.  Beauregard was dispatched to notify General Scott.  About eight o’clock the general in chief, accompanied by his staff, with an escort of cavalry, all in full dress, passed through the northwestern angle into the Grand Plaza.  The line of soldiers presented arms, lowered colors, and gave the drum beat.  General Scott uncovered in acknowledgment of the salute, dismounted, and passed into the porte-cochere of the palace, followed by Generals Quitman and Smith and officers of the staff.  He said, “Gentlemen, we must not be too elated with our success.”  Then turning, he said:  “Let me present to you the Civil and Military Governor of the City of Mexico, Major-General John A. Quitman.  I appoint him at this instant.  He has earned the distinction, and he shall have it.”  The general then ascended the stairway and at once wrote General Order No. 284, as follows: 

“HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

“MEXICO, September 14, 1847.

“1.  Under the favor of God, the valor of this army, after many
glorious victories, has hoisted the colors of our country in the
capital of Mexico and on the palace of its Government.

“2.  But the war is not yet ended.  The Mexican army and Government
have fled, only to watch an opportunity to turn upon us with
vengeance.  We must, then, be upon our guard.

  “3.  Companies and regiments will be kept together, and all stand on
  the alert.  Our safety is in military discipline.

  “4.  Let there be no drunkenness, no disorders, no straggling. 
  Stragglers will be in great danger of assassination, and marauders
  shall be punished by courts-martial.