Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/320

300 Maximilian was not greatly shaken, however, for he appointed him to command the chosen escort, and decorated him, on the eve of the projected departure, with the bronze medal, although little or no claim existed for the distinction, or for the cross of the French legion of honor already hanging on his breast.

Lopez did not forgive those who had stood between him and promotion. He was not wholly devoid of gratitude, but gratitude was not his ruling passion. He could love a little; he could hate a great deal. Moreover, this empire was doomed; and for himself in this company he was a branded man. What other motives may have influenced him is difficult to say. At any rate, on this night of the 14th of May, 1867, this man Lopez stole away to the headquarters of Escobedo, and in a private interview disclosed the condition and plans of the besieged, and arranged to betray them to the enemy. To accomplish his object