Page:Vol 4 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/787

Rh arms, and sallying forth raised the cry of "Viva Agustin I.!"

Similar proceedings occurred at the other barracks, while agents were busily engaged in rousing the city wards. The soldiery was soon joined by dense crowds of the populace, and immense multitudes surged from all points to the residence of the generalissimo, and with deafening shouts proclaimed him emperor. Of course Iturbide was overwhelmed with the unexpected demonstration. Several times he addressed the crowd from his balcony, affecting inexpressible surprise, and protesting his unwillingness to accept the crown held out to him. Moreover, he sent for the members of the regency, the generals of the army, certain deputies, and other persons of consideration, whose advice he knew would suit his dissembled aspirations, and besought them to give him their counsel. They urged him to yield to the general wish, and with well feigned reluctance he returned to the balcony and bowed his acquiescence to the popular will. During the remainder of the night the wildest commotion prevailed. Volleys of musketry reverberated through the streets; the artillery was dragged out and fired as fast as gunners could load the pieces; the church towers were invaded, and the peal of bells mingled with the whiz of rockets as they shot forth from all parts of the capital; while the night was made bright with bonfires and illuminations. But the joy was not universal. Those who were opposed to the pretensions of Iturbide remained shut up in their houses in fear and trembling; for they knew not what violence might not be resorted to in such a tumult. Terror and exultation alike signalized the acclamation of Iturbide as emperor. Meantime he continued to