Page:The rise and fall of the Emperor Maximilian.djvu/50

34 the past by any larger measure, undertook to rally round him all well-disposed men. This line of conduct had all the better chance of success as General Bazaine, on succeeding to the command, was preceded by a reputation for bravery which had its influence even over the Mexicans, who besides were not indifferent to his good humour, so full both of heartiness and polish. The latter, too, felt flattered at hearing the French commander-in-chief speak the Spanish language, which he had learnt during the last Spanish war.

Some coups de main, vigorously carried out against the plundering bands which infested the country, soon restored confidence in Mexico and the neighbouring towns. They augured well for the quick despatch, after the rains, of the expedition which was being prepared for the purpose of driving away the Juarists from the interior, and of thus allowing the central provinces to choose a new government. Unfortunately, the council of regency already exhibited the spectacle of a sad division, to which it was highly necessary that the general should put an end, so as not to leave behind him the elements of discord whilst he was engaged in military operations. The dissolution of the regency now became a question; but the idea was rejected by the general himself, who felt that this act of vigour might throw discredit on the origin of Maximilian's title to power, and would infallibly be made the most of by the partisans of Juarez. The president of the council of regency, a wise and disinterested man, and devoted to his country, the aspirations of which he had ill understood, because he attributed to it virtues of which it was incapable, followed in the path traced out by General Bazaine. Salas, the second member of the council, an inoffensive old man, followed him in it like his shadow. But the Archbishop of Mexico,