Page:The rise and fall of the Emperor Maximilian.djvu/152

 Pengamillo, October 7, 1864. My dear Marshal and Friend,—It is with the greatest pleasure that I have just heard of your promotion to the rank of marshal.

By distinguishing you with so high a mark of favour, the emperor fulfils the desire of all good Mexicans, to whom, in his name, you have brought liberty and peace, for which they will always be grateful to you. ''One thing alone could lessen the joy which this happy event causes us, it is in case it should result in your leaving our country. I trust that the Emperor Napoleon will not deprive Mexico of services which are so necessary to her well-being.''

Repeating my cordial congratulations... Your very affectionate

Was there not in these words something more than mere courtly language? The note of the Empress Charlotte, who was eager to be the first to apprise the commander-in-chief of the happy event, by sending him the Belgian newspapers, was redolent of the same goodwill. But at the commencement of 1866, a real misunderstanding interrupted for a short time the good understanding which existed between the throne and head-quarters. A French officer had, by order of the Emperor Napoleon, returned to Mexico after leave of absence. Maximilian, who at that time did not appreciate the services of this officer, addressed the following note to the general-in-chief:—

My dear Marshal,—The telegraph has just acquainted me with the sudden return of M—, who has just landed at Vera Cruz. I have every reason to feel surprised at the return of this officer, and beg you will inform me why the instructions which followed a special meeting which we held in Mexico on the subject have been departed from.

As we here see, Maximilian spoke with an air of authority; but, as it may be imagined, the marshal