Page:The Fall of Maximilan's Empire.djvu/79

Rh Mr. Seward, he stated that he relied upon his assistance in this undertaking, where the interests of a sister Republic were at stake, and when the time had come to strike the decisive blow for the expulsion of foreign intruders and the tyrannical domination of France. One paragraph in this letter perhaps showed the not wholly disinterested purpose which swayed him. "Should we now succeed in our endeavors, and once more see Mexico free, and my countrymen reinstate me in the highest position within their gift, it would afford me the greatest pleasure to reciprocate all your kindness, and show my gratitude to your government with a liberal hand."

Mr. Seward's frigid reply speaks for itself.

3em August 16, 1866. The Secretary of State has had the honor to receive from General de Santa Ana, formerly President of Mexico, a communication, in which he states that he wishes to visit Washington, and that he would be pleased to know if he will be received as a private gentleman by the Secretary of State.

The distinguished gentleman is hereby informed that, insomuch as his attitude towards the Republican government of Mexico, with which the United States maintain diplomatic intercourse, is pronounced by the President of Mexico to be unfriendly towards the government of the Republic, a reception of the General, in any character, at the present time, by the Secretary of State, would be