Page:The rise and fall of the Emperor Maximilian.djvu/231

 sail for Europe without intention of return, when a letter from M. Eloïn, the Belgian councillor, was handed to him. It was dated from Brussels, but had been submitted, in its passage through the United States, to the dark closet at Washington.

Brussels, September 17, 1866. Sire,—The article in the Moniteur, disavowing the appointments of the French generals, Osmont and Friant, to the ministries of war and finance in the Mexican government, proves that, for the future, the mask is unreservedly thrown off. The mission of General Castelnau, aide-de-camp and confidant of the emperor, secret as it is, can have no other aim, in my opinion, but to bring on a conclusion as soon as possible. With a view of explaining away its conduct (which history will judge of), the French government would prefer that an abdication should precede the withdrawal of its army, and that thus the possibility should be offered them of alone reorganising a new state of things calculated to ensure its own interests and those of its countrymen. I am fully persuaded that your majesty will not be induced to afford this satisfaction to a policy which will, sooner or later, have to answer for its actions, and the consequences which have resulted therefrom.

The language of Mr. Seward, his 'toast' to Romero, the attitude of the president (the result of————of the French cabinet), are grave facts which are calculated to increase difficulties and to discourage the bravest. I am persuaded, however, that the abandonment of your party before the return of the French army would be interpreted as an act of weakness; and, as your majesty holds your right of authority under a popular vote, a fresh appeal should be made to the Mexican people, when relieved from the pressure of a foreign intervention; and it is to them that a demand should be made for the material and financial assistance requisite for the maintenance and growth of the empire.

If this appeal is not listened to, your majesty, having then completely brought to a close your noble mission, will return to Europe with the same prestige which accompanied your