Chapter 2:
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- In the army. -- frontier service. -- characteristics as a young officer. -- in Texas. -- the Mexican war. -- his first battle. -- coolness and bravery at Resaca de la Palma. -- a steady, plucky officer. -- appointed regimental quartermaster. -- Joins Scott's army. -- tact, energy, and perseverance. -- not content with quartermaster's duties. -- Participates in battles. -- conspicuous gallantry at Chepultepec. -- brevet first Lieutenant and brevet captain. -- his reputation earned by merit and service, not by Favoritism. -- return to the United States. -- married. -- his fortunes shared by his wife; the higher honors yet to be shared. -- ordered to the Pacific coast. -- service in Oregon. -- promotion. -- Resigns. -- a Farmer in Missouri. -- careless independence. -- a patriot, but no politician. -- Enters the leather business with his father and brother. -- a higher destiny reserved for him.
When Grant received his first commission, the little army of the United States was occupied chiefly on the western frontier, a few troops only garrisoning the more important forts along the Atlantic seaboard, and on the shores of the Great Lakes. The Fourth Infantry was stationed on the western frontier to protect settlers from the Indians. The hostility of some of the Indians occasionally made the duties of the troops somewhat active, though no engagements occurred, and no very long marches were made. The duties of this' service, however, were of no little advantage to the young officer, who was always ready to learn by experience, faithful to the details of his duty, and willing to work. Though the routine was tedious
