Page:Vol 4 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/722

706 under Armijo were scattered in detachments stationed at long distances from one another, and could ill withstand the continual attacks of the insurgents. Guerrero's forces, which numbered about 2,000 men well armed and disciplined, were in the heart of the district, and the rough nature of the country enabled him not only to stand successfully on the defensive, but at times to strike heavy blows.

Iturbide established his headquarters in Teloloapan, the most central point in the district. On the arrival of the Celaya regiment, without waste of time he drew aside Francisco Quintanilla, captain of the third company, apprised him of his scheme, and asked if he could rely on his support and that of his brother officers. Quintanilla could hardly believe his ears; but his commander that same afternoon placed in his hands for perusal the famous plan that was proclaimed some weeks later in Iguala, and correspondence with residents of the highest standing in the capital. The signatures were convincing, and the captain unhesitatingly assured Iturbide that he might safely count on the regiment, then 517 strong.

Continuing his correspondence with the viceroy, Iturbide kept asking for more troops and money, while repeating his assurances of loyalty. As far as lay in his power, Apodaca acceded to Iturbide's requests; and his disposition to do so gave rise afterward to a supposition that he was also in accord with the revolutionary plan then being concocted, an idea apparently corroborated by the ill success of the subsequent