The two were then secure against an attack from Santa Anna, who commanded the Mexican forces.

At all events they confronted the enemy without reinforcements and without molestation, until the 18th of April.

General Scott had remained at Vera Cruz to hasten preparations for the field; but on the 12th, learning the situation at the front, he hastened on to take personal supervision.

He at once commenced his preparations for the capture of the position held by Santa Anna and of the troops holding it.
Cerro Gordo is one of the higher spurs of the mountains some twelve to fifteen miles east of Jalapa, and Santa Anna had selected this point as the easiest to defend against an invading army.

The road, said to have been built by Cortez, zigzags around the mountain-side and was defended at every turn by artillery.