Page:Vol 5 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/749

Rh at once recognized by a majority of the states, and became a centre of union for the liberals.

But to return to affairs in the city of Mexico. The position of La Santísima was intrusted by Comonfort to General Trias. The reactionists, on their part, were not idle. They were constantly receiving accessions from Comonfort's army, so that on the night of the 20th his 5,000 men had diminished to scarcely 500, with which insignificant number it would be folly to attempt defence. Comonfort kept up his courage; but by the advice of his friends Rangel and Pardo, he resolved to leave the capital. In his sad predicament he uttered not a word against the men who had brought him into it. The reactionary general, Parra, allowed him to depart, which he did about eight in the morning of January 21, 1858, with his aids and some troops, most of whom deserted him a little way out. He embarked on the steamer Tennessee on the 7th of February, leaving a manifesto expressing the vain hope that the well-intentioned of all parties, disregarding past animosities, might succeed in restoring peace to the country.

Comonfort expiated his errors. He went into banishment as a last recourse. It was really the best thing he could do, even at the time when the best But services of every liberal were greatly needed. though in exile, he did not remain quiet. He always manifested the desire to serve his country, and made attempts to return and defend liberal principles. At last a foreign war afforded Comonfort the opportunity for an honorable vindication.

The reactionary leaders, who for the moment could hardly realize their victory, immediately after Comonfort abandoned the capital, took possession of the national palace and archives, amidst the ringing of bells and the plaudits of their partisans. Zuloaga,