Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/324

304 spoke about cutting their way through. "It is useless, sire," replied the latter in a disheartening tone, as he surveyed the dense lines of besiegers; "yet if your Majesty commands, it can be tried." A moment later the white flag was hoisted by the imperialists, and Pradillo sent to negotiate with Escobedo for the good treatment of the army, Maximilian offering himself if a victim must be had.

The firing having ceased, the republicans bethought themselves only of making matters sure by advancing close upon the Cerro, heedless of the white flag and the messenger to Escobedo, and General Echegaray stepping forward declared the emperor his prisoner. Soon the commander-in-chief came up. Maximilian surrendered his sword, and repeating the messaye sent, he announced that his abdication had already been sent to Mexico. He stood otherwise prepared to leave the country. Escobedo answered that the republican government could alone decide in the matter.

In charge of Riva Palacio, he was now conducted back to his old quarters at the convent, together with his favorite officers, the cazadores and citizens, especially the women, mutely greeting him with bent