Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/247

Rh conservative right to offices. A good understanding should be restored between church and state by means of a concordat with Rome, embracing a removal of the insecurity hanging over alienated estates, the right of acquiring property and the means of sustenance for the clergy Meanwhile steps should be taken to smooth difficulties, and foremost to hasten the organization of the army, and perfect a plan for the finance department. As a means to improve the condition of the poorer classes, a system of land grants was inaugurated.

In accordance with this plan came a host of additional appointments, and changes, especially in the ranks of prefects and councillors, and several anti-catholic enactments were revoked, including that which had transferred the cemeteries to municipal control. Nothwithstanding the declared inviolability of property, an embargo was laid on that of all persons hostile to the empire, to be administered for the benefit of bereaved loyal families — an act which only encouraged the Juarists to larger reprisal. The change of policy was received with mixed feelings. Stanch conservatives accepted it as a triumph, and