Page:The rise and fall of the Emperor Maximilian.djvu/301

 The conduct of these liberal chiefs was a last and striking homage rendered to the humanity of the French commanders, who, during the whole of this fierce campaign, had been able to make a just distinction between soldiers and banditti. In spite of the war—in which, however, they knew that we had but little sympathy—they felt confidence in the French flag, and they had no fear in asking protection from us against the excesses of their own countrymen:—

Republican Army of the Centre. El Salitre, November 4, 1866. Marshal,—Just as I was marching with my forces against the town of Toluca, being convinced that the place was not able to resist me, and desirous of sparing the town all the sad consequences of an assault, I sent Colonel J. Lalanne, with a flag of truce, to obtain an interview with the Mexican commander of the place, and to propose to them honourable terms of surrender.

My envoy was made prisoner on his road, and has been taken to the city of Mexico. This is a violation of the usages of war, which doubtless is only caused by an excess of zeal in those who took him prisoner.

I have always been aware of your honourable feelings, and I reckon on them in hoping that you will immediately have the matter set right.

The above request was granted, as well as the following:— Apam, January 27, 1867. To the French head-quarters.

The youth, Antonio Mendez, has been arrested in the capital in an arbitrary manner. He is serving under my orders. His father being dead, I allowed him leave of absence for private affairs. He was therefore separated from the republican forces, and his imprisonment is as unjust as it