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Rh appointed day. The public could not see the use of an extra session when the executive was clothed with extraordinary powers; and indeed, no beneficial measure was adopted; on the contrary, a considerable number of the members did their utmost to develop ill feeling and create greater alarm. In view of the hostile attitude of Europe, Juarez gave orders to strengthen Vera Cruz and Tampico.

Almonte encouraged his fellow-reactionists that inside of two months he would be in the waters of Mexico with the European naval forces. Next came the news that on the 31st of October had been signed in London a convention, by Great Britain, France, and Spain, for a joint intervention in Mexican affairs. Toward the end of November, diplomatic relations with France and England had ceased, after congress had revoked the suspension law of July 17th. The three allied powers had at first agreed upon the occupation by their forces of Vera Cruz, for the purpose of securing reparation of injuries and damages sustained by their subjects at the hands of Mexican authorities, and the fulfilment of prior obligations contracted by Mexico with those powers — nothing more. The United States, having also claims against