Page:Vol 4 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/202

186 of Calleja, and the want of spirit observable in his own troops, at first meditated flight to Vera Cruz. The earnest appeals of the Spaniards and royalists, however, induced him to change his mind, and take measures for the defence of the city. Such forces as he had were placed on the causeway of la Piedad and the paseo de Bucareli. Cannon were planted at Chapultepec, and troops of cavalry detached to watch the movements of the enemy. Internal defence was intrusted to the regiment of the Comercio, the city squadron, and some newly levied bodies of patriots. When the news of Trujillo's failure reached the capital, Venegas had immediately despatched a courier to Calleja, ordering him to hasten by forced marches to the defence of the capital. He also sent instructions to Captain Rosendo Porlier, directing him to unite the crews of the vessels at Vera Cruz, and march them up the country to his aid.

To inspire the fainting hearts of the people with some confidence, Venegas caused the sacred image of los Remedies to be conveyed from its shrine to the cathedral. These were the days of signs and wonders, be it remembered, and this was a time of great tribulation. The viceroy was ready to act, and was well up in his part. Betaking himself to the cathedral, he threw himself upon his knees, and devoutly addressing the image, meanwhile invoking its aid,