The commanding general was greatly disappointed when the first train returned from Vera Cruz without bringing a jacket, blanket, or a pair of shoes for the army.  That small depot had been exhausted by the troops of Patterson, Butler, and Marshall, who were fresh from home, or the Brazos, and others that arrived without clothing since June; and on December 25th he wrote of his great disappointments, and stated that this want might delay distant expeditions for many weeks, as some of the new volunteers were in want of essential articles of wear.  He called attention to the fact that requisitions for clothing made by the regular regiments over a year previous had not been sent, or at any rate had not reached the regiments.  No general ever paid more attention or displayed greater interest in the comfort of his men than General Scott.  The quartermaster’s and commissary departments were his never-ceasing care, and he gave constant personal attention to both.

On the matter of assessments he says:  “You perceive I do not propose to seize the ordinary State or city revenue, as that, in my judgment, would be to make war on civilization, as no community can escape absolute anarchy without civil government.  I shall take care, however, to see that the means collected within any particular State or city for that purpose are moderate and reasonable.”

Order No. 395 was issued December 31st, specifying the States by name and the several sums they would be annually taxed.  The duties paid at the gates of the cities, and in passing from one State to another, as well as the tobacco monopoly and lotteries, were abolished.  Governors and members of the Legislature of the different States, and all collecting officers then in commission and charged with the collection of Federal duties of any, were held individually responsible in their persons and property for the collection and payment of the assessment.  The order, which was a long one and carefully prepared, gave many details.  The last two paragraphs say:  “The American troops, in spreading themselves over this republic, will take care to observe the strictest discipline and morals in respect to the persons and property of the country, purchasing and paying for all necessaries and comforts they may require, and treating the unoffending inhabitants with forbearance and kindness.  The higher honor of the country, as well as the particular honor of the army, must and shall be maintained against the few miscreants in our ranks.  The laws of war will also be strictly observed toward all Mexicans who respect those laws.  For the treatment of those atrocious bands of guerillos and armed rancheros, General Order No. 392 of the 12th instant will be rigidly enforced.”