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448 two thirds of the electoral votes. In most of the states, however, the plan was disapproved; nor was Diaz so imprudent as to favor a movement directly opposed to the plan of Tuxtepec, to which he was pledged. He recognized that such an action might destroy confidence in his good faith, both at home and abroad, and he consequently instructed his friends to desist from their efforts to procure his reëlection.

The candidates for the presidential chair were Manuel Gonzalez, Justo Benitez, García de la Cadena, Ignacio Mejía, and Manuel M. de Zamacona. By decree of September 25th congress declared Gonzalez elected, and on December 1, 1880, he assumed the executive office.

The administration of Diaz was essentially progressive, and a consequent general amelioration in the condition of the people was observable in both a social and material point of view. Owing to the excellent condition into which the urban rural police was brought, never had the security of the public been so well provided for. Relations between the federal government and the states were cordial; and although the president retained extraordinary powers, he never resorted to declarations of martial law in districts that required federal interposition. Great impetus was given to education. The establishment of numerous agricultural schools and of scientific observatories was contemplated, together with the repair of roads, causeways, and bridges, as well as several improvements in the ports of the republic. But the difficulties the government had to contend with, having