Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/469

Rh as yet to quell the turbulent spirit which still prevailed even after the crushing out of a general revolution, were in the way, and hindered it from carrying out most of its progressive plans. It may be said that under Diaz' rule the chief material improvements introduced were the establishment of two observatories, astronomical and meteorological. The government took in hand the railway problem, making liberal grants to several companies that were disposed to engage in the construction of railroad lines, both international and local. It should be born, in mind that in adopting this progressive policy the president had to contend with the opposition existing in his own cabinet, brought about by the establishment of railway communication between Mexico and the United States. The only minister who openly upheld the railway scheme without exhibiting any fear of undue American influence was General Gonzalez, minister of war, who later became the successor of General Diaz in the executive office, and efficaciously aided him in removing the prejudices of his colleagues.

The financial condition of Diaz' government was truly a painful one. The consequences of the revolution which had just triumphed had caused a great disturbance in treasury affairs. Moreover, the army had been considerably increased with the triumphant revolutionary troops, and the treasury was unable to meet the enormous expenses of so large an armed force. The government was under the absolute necessity of introducing economy on a large scale, involving a considerable reduction of the army and the suppression of many civil offices. Notwithstanding this saving, the treasury continued in great strait; there were years when one fourth of the salaries were left unpaid, and during the whole of that time public officers and the army had to submit to the loss of a percentage of their pay. When Diaz surrendered the executive chair the treasury was exhausted, and burdened with