sacola bay, and steamed away under full power. It did not seem probable that the town of Vera Cruz could still be holding out after negotiations for surrender had reached the stage described previous to her departure; but in view of Bureau's strange sense of duty or unblushing diversion of customhouse receipts, it was deemed best for her to return. Great was the surprise on board, when, after sighting the ships at Sacrificios anchorage, on the afternoon of the 20th, the Imperial flag was made out still flying over the defences of the town.
As the gun-boat rapidly approached, the old familiar objects became distinct. The same ships were there,—the "Jason," "Barracouta," "Phlégéton," "Elizabeth," and Uloa." The U.S.S. "Yucca" was also present, but was despatched before long to Tampico, with peremptory orders to Lieutenant Commander Maxwell, commanding the U.S.S. "Yantic," To bring that vessel immediately to Vera Cruz, as there was urgent need for an increased force there, while at Tampico all was quiet. The thrilling sounds of cannonading and musketry testified to the inability of the different parties to come to an agreement. There was evidently needed a main de fer sous gant de velours to give an impetus to negotiations.
It was soon learned that an arrangement had been reached on the 19th between the Imperial Commissary and General Benavides for the surrender of the
