made every preparation to repel it. The disposable force, both regulars and provincial militia, was called into active service. Mayorga and his secretary[1] visited Vera Cruz, inspected the fortifications, corrected defects, and stationed the troops in Orizaba, Encero, Jalapa, and other convenient spots. In this inspection and in all the arrangements, which occupied about nineteen days, Mayorga conducted himself with ability, energy, and dignity. Fortunately, the enemy attempted no movements upon the coasts of Mexico.
But offensive operations were carried on from Yucatan to expel the British from Belize and the neighborhood, pursuant to orders from the crown to the governor. Captain-general Roberto Rivas Betancourt, who hastened his preparations; and before the enemy could effect his purposes against Bacalar, Rivas was at this town ready for action. The viceroy of New Spain had been directed to aid the governor, but he could not do it. He sent him, however, a great quantity of gunpowder, and money, which were of much benefit for the campaign.[2]
Rivas' efforts were successful. He not only dislodged the British from Belize, capturing on Cayo Cocina the 15th of September, 1779, a number of prisoners, over three hundred slaves, and some small vessels, but with his canoes and pirogues made a prize of an English brig armed with fourteen guns. He did not, it is true, accomplish all that was expected of him; but considering the small resources at his command to counteract the large ones of the enemy, his conduct was deemed meritorious.
Viceroy Mayorga attended to all his duties, not neglecting those of charity to the poor in a time of affliction, with signal zeal and ability. His measures for the defence and security of the country were
- ↑ Melchor de Peramás was the secretary by royal appointment of the viceroyalty. In January 1780 he was retired with the honors of an oidor. His successor in the office was Pedro Antonio Cosio. Gomez, Diario, 78; Papeles Franciscanos, MS., ii. 1st ser. 313, 315; Disposiciones Varias, i. 33.
- ↑ Mayorga, Carta, in Soc. Mex. Geog., Boletin, 2da ép., i 242.
