Page:Speeches, correspondence and political papers of Carl Schurz, Volume 1.djvu/239

Rh what influences are at work there. As to the candidates for the Mexican throne, whose merits and chances are canvassed at Court, there seems to be a discrepancy of opinion. Don Sebastian was most freely spoken of while the Court was at La Granja; but a few days ago one of the Government journals stated that the Mexican throne would be occupied not by a Spanish prince, but by a prince who would marry a Spanish princess. It would seem that the aspirations of this Court have not received the anticipated encouragement from the Governments of France and England, and it is possible that the Queen is endeavoring to reconcile discordant interests by some family alliance. She is said to be in search of a throne for her daughter, the Infanta Isabel, and this circumstance has probably given rise to the mysterious statement of the above-mentioned journal.

But the wishes of the Court will probably be considered as of secondary importance by General Prim, especially if the right influences be brought to bear upon him. With regard to the manner in which this might be accomplished I beg leave to offer a suggestion. Mr. Corwin will probably be confined by his duties to the City of Mexico, at a large distance from that part of the country which, at the beginning of operations at least, will be the principal field of action. The United States will, as you have informed me, send a little squadron to the Mexican waters for the purpose of watching the proceedings of the three Powers. Would it not be possible to attach to that squadron a diplomatic agent? I have no doubt, if you select a person of ability, sufficient knowledge of human nature, good social qualities and conversational powers, who speaks Spanish or French fluently, and instruct him to attach himself to the person of General Prim, he will not remain without influence upon the course of events. General Prim informs me that he