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708 coast and the Mescala, and the latter to the cerro de la Goleta, and then destroying them in turn, proved abortive. In view of this stubborn resistance, Iturbide, who feared that a protracted struggle would frustrate his own project, opened communications with Guerrero, with the object of inducing that chief to aid him in his scheme. He had previously entered into some negotiations with Guerrero, to whom most favorable offers were made if he would place himself and his force under the Spanish government; but the independent leader scornfully refused to accept proposals which were tantamount to the offer of a pardon so repeatedly rejected by him.

Iturbide's real object had been to open secret relations with Guerrero, and he did not allow this rebuff to discourage him. On the 4th of February he again wrote, inviting him to a personal interview at or near Chilpancingo, and apprising him verbally of his design by the mouth of a trusty messenger. Half an hour's conversation, he said, would bring them to an understanding. But instances of royalist perfidy were too numerous, and Guerrero would not trust him; he, however, sent Colonel José Figueroa to arrange the terms proposed by Iturbide, which were consummated. They were to the effect that Guerrero with all his forces should aid the former in carrying out his project. This most important point gained, Iturbide continued to deal out in liberal doses his duplicity.