Page:The rise and fall of the Emperor Maximilian.djvu/274

 explained by the deep irritation which was felt there: first, on account of the non-abdication of Maximilian, which kept our policy, our flag, and above all our responsibility in regard to the young sovereign, still entangled in regard to Mexican affairs; secondly, on account of the check given to Sherman's mission which, if it had succeeded, would have smothered, by the restoration of the Mexican republic, the seeds of misunderstanding with the United States; and finally, on account of a despatch from Mr. Seward (recently communicated to the Emperor Napoleon, although disavowed by our government), which called forth from the Moniteur in its bulletin of December 24, the following remarks:—'The American press sends us very incomplete extracts of the diplomatic correspondence which has just been submitted to congress.'

'Amongst it we notice a despatch dated November 23, sent by Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow.

'This document the French government have never had any knowledge of.

'The United States newspapers confirm, however, the good understanding which exists between the Federal government and that of the emperor.'

Looking at the fresh document of a threatening character which now follows, our patriotism finds a difficulty in realising this 'good understanding,' the assertion of which indicates really too much complacency on the part of the official journal.

Despatch from Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow, as to the Return of the French Troops from Mexico, dated November 23, 1866. Sir,—Your despatch of November 8 (No. 384) relative to Mexico has been received. Your conduct in your interview both with M. de Moustier and with the emperor is entirely approved of.