Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/346

326 France stood compromised, by the spirit at least of the Miramare convention, to found a strong government. She promised more than she performed, and moreover sapped the roots by absorbing the means for growth. The hostile attitude of the northern republic, with her disengaged lines of armies, tended to dispel the illusive hopes infolding the Mexican enterprise. Quicksand stood disclosed, and fear and interest demanded a retreat, even at the cost of humiliation. Maximilian was offered safety at the same price, but he refused.

Now rise the redeeming traits of the prince in the midst of misfortune. It is needless again to examine closely additional motives of ulterior plans and revolted pride, in connection with Austrian prospects and French intrigues for another government. Suffice it to recognize that the honor of his name and the appeal of his imperilled party proved the main impulse which called him to what he deemed duty, to stand by his adherents till terms could be obtained for their security. "Tell my mother that I have done my duty as a soldier!" was a last message that reflected true as well as noble feelings. His sacrifice to honor and party was wholly thrown away. Not that he could have been much deceived by the shallow assurances of his ministers; but his usual irresolution and yielding to certain men led him into fresh mistakes, and to the neglect of opportunity that might have gained at least honorable conditions and safety. The last struggle proved merely a waste of blood, although serving to embalm his memory as a brave and chivalric prince, if not as a great man