Page:Vol 4 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/123

Rh would organize the forces in different districts and maintain the struggle. The government proposed to be established was a senate of representatives appointed by the provinces, which should rule in the name of Fernando VII., ignoring all submission to Spain.

To accomplish their designs, Allende and Aldama visited Mexico, Puebla, and other important places in New Spain, while Hidalgo assisted in the cities of Valladolid and Guanajuato, his efforts being especially directed to gaining over the clergy. During 1810, Querétaro appears to have been the centre of action, and Allende and Aldama frequently attended the meetings there. More than half the year had gone and the plans of the revolutionists were almost ripe. There were as yet no signs of discovery or treachery. Then the day was appointed on which the cry of independence should be sounded. The great fair held at San Juan de los Lagos, commencing on the 8th of December, offered a good opportunity. Amidst the gathering crowds their movements would escape observation, and enable them to concentrate their forces without detection. It was accordingly decided that Allende and Aldama should meet there by different routes on the 1st of that month, and prepare matters for the proclamation of independence on a concerted day of the fair. Events, however, occurred which frustrated this design.

As the cura Hidalgo will presently become the principal leader and most prominent character in the