Page:Vol 4 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/468

452 The Spanish American residents in Cádiz were not content with discussions in the córtes and polemics in the press, and at times resorted to more direct hostilities. With the increase of their number, the aid of the press, particularly of El Español, and the progress made by the revolution in nearly all Spanish America, the deputies assumed a more decided tone in the chamber. On the 1st of August they presented an address, reiterating the demand contained in the eleven propositions, and insisting upon their adoption. They also added another demand, providing for the establishment of provincial juntas similar to those in Spain, to hold the government of their respective districts, and thus restrain the despotism of the rulers. The signers of this address asked the córtes to rise su perior to prejudice, and treat the matter with fairness and liberality. The address was read in secret session, and caused much discussion, but no action was takeni.-xlvi. This work, of which mention has already been made, treats of the events in the years 1808-13; the first volume covering the period from July 15, 1803, to January 17, 1811, and giving a synopsis of the origin of the insurrection, as also a full account of Hidalgo's revolution, campaign, etc. The second volume contains political events from Jan. 1811 to March 9, 1813, principally Morelos' campaigns; it also furnishes lengthy debates in the Spanish córtes, with comments thereon. The author tries to appear impartial, but at times allows himself to be carried away by passion in speaking of the Spanish oppressive colonial system, and of the events connected with the French invasion of Spain. His bitterness reaches the highest point at the mention of certain names that are supremely hateful to him. Hidalgo is his hero, and other revolutionary leaders receive their meed of praise. His historical and statistical illustrations, as well as his comments on affairs in general, prove a cultivated mind, and evince great study; and those on European policy in particular show his familiarity with it. The style is elegant and full of spirit, abounding in opportune witticisms, which reveal the author's clear mind, erudition, and sound judgment. Mier continued writing till Iturrigaray noticed that the work was becoming an apology for Mexican independence, which did not enter into the ex-viceroy's views, and the allowance to meet expenses was stopped. The author still continued writing, but when his means gave out and he could not pay the printer, the latter attached the copies on hand, and caused Mier to be put in the debtors' prison, where he might have remained but for the arrival of the first envoys from Buenos Aires, who paid the printer and took the books, all of which they sent to their own country; but the vessel on which they were shipped was wrecked and the books lost. Only a few copies that were distributed during its publication exist.