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174 Colonization was given a hitherto unparalleled prominence, both in projects and decrees. An immigration bureau was established, with a most favorable decree for the appointment of agents, the grant of free lands, and other privileges. All races were to be admitted, and a special-contract law was issued regulating the term of service and treatment of colored persons. Arrangements were also made for French, United States, and German immigration into littoral and interior districts; but the leading project was the formation of colonies by refugees from the southern United States. Prominently connected with this plan was William M. Gwin, formerly United States senator from California, who proposed a semi-independent settlement in Sonora, and received such countenance from Napoleon as to lead to an outcry against a supposed absorption of that state by France. Even the United States intimated that the establishment of hostile southerners along the frontier would not be regarded with favor. But the disturbed