CHAPTER XVI.--Military position of the Americans at the end of

the armistice--Mexican defences--Plan of attack--Reconnoissances of Scott and Mason--Importance of Mexican position at Molino del Rey--Scott's scheme of capturing the city--Battle of Molino del Rey--Reflections and criticism on this battle--Preparations to attack Chapultepec--Storming of Chapultepec and of the city Gates of San Cosmé and Belen--Retreat of the Mexican army and government--American occupation of the city of Mexico, 408