Page:Vol 5 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/677

Rh constitution, and even tendered his resignation, which was not accepted. At last he became convinced that with an empty treasury nothing could be accomplished, and resolved to quit Mexico, still pretending that he could sustain himself, and with a show of calmness inaugurated the work of railroad construction. But as the revolution made great progress in the east, fear seized him that his exit might be cut off; and pretending that his presence was greatly needed in Vera Cruz, he deceived his own supporters. Early on the 9th of August he started for Vera Cruz, leaving authority with the ministers to transact ordinary business. That same morning was published his decree of the previous day to enforce one issued by him March 16, 1854, and kept under seal, appointing his successor. The successor thus appointed was a triumvirate, consisting of the president of the supreme court and generals Mariano Salas and Martin Carrera, who, once installed, were to summon a congress to form a constitution.

General Diaz de la Vega remained in command of the capital. Upon Santa Anna's departure becoming generally known, there was much manifest uneasiness. The silence of the official press confirmed the dangers of the situation; and though Santa Anna's most intimate friends denied that he intended leaving the country, their assertion was not believed after the appointment of his successor was made public. The