Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/340

320 fields and slopes, bore evidence of devastating batteries and cruel conflict. Turning to Miramon, who stood to the right, Maximilian remarked, "A brave soldier is respected by his sovereign; permit me to yield to you the place of honor;" whereupon he moved him to the centre and embraced him. He also pressed Mejía to his breast, saying, "General, what has not been rewarded on earth will be in heaven." After distributing some gold pieces among the soldiers detailed for the execution, and bidding them fire straight at his heart, upon which he placed his hand, he spoke with firm voice, "May my blood be the last shed in sacrifice for the country, and if more is required, let it be for the good of the nation, never in treason."

With equal composure Miramon read a brief piece, protesting against the imputation of treason. Mejía, at first unnerved by the effect of sickness and the sight of his wife frantic with grief, had now recovered himself and exclaimed firmly, "Viva México, viva el emperador!" The signal to fire was then given, and the three fell simultaneously. Miramon died instantly, Mejía had to receive a final shot, and also Maximilian, who received a bullet in the heart as he faintly whispered, "Hombre." It was the hour of seven.