The order of Calleja[1] withdrawing from the control of Nueva Galicia both Guanajuato and Michoacan was apparently based on Cruz's former somewhat pretended objections to the responsibility, but rested really on the long-growing hostility between the two leaders, and the desire of the new viceroy to assume direct control wherever possible. Cruz understood the motive, and took it so much to heart as to tender his resignation of the Nueva Galicia command.[2] But the friendship of Venegas, leagued against Calleja, induced the government to retain a man of so recognized ability, partly as a check on the viceroy.[3]
Elated by the confidence expressed in him, Cruz assumed a more independent attitude. He erected a mint at Guadalajara, obtained larger commercial privileges for San Blas, and fostered trade with China, the West Indies, and in other directions, at the expense of Acapulco;[4] developed local manufactures, and formed for himself a long-enduring monument in the public buildings with which he embellished the capital of the kingdom. All this, however, had the effect also of opening the eyes of the people to their resources and strength, and to rouse a spirit of provincialism that failed not to bear fruit in due time. The latter feeling received, moreover, direct encouragement from the continued hostility between Cruz and Calleja.[5]
The energetic measures of Cruz had assisted to con-
- ↑ Dated April 21, 1813.
- ↑ As comandante general, governor, and gefe político, as well as president of the audiencia. The objections to Calleja are clearly indicated. The letter is dated May 10th. See Hernandez y Dávalos, Col. Doc., v. 748-50. Calleja was notified by another letter of the 12th, which Bustamante wrongly assumes to be the resignation.
- ↑ The latter by letter of July 6th also remonstrates against the resignation and expresses warm regard. Id., 76.
- ↑ Effects were brought direct by way of Panamá, for instance.
- ↑ Armament not being well manufactured at Guadalajara, Cruz asked for a supply from Mexico. This was refused and a strong letter followed, which led to a reprimand from Calleja. Bustamante alludes to Cruz as 'feroz y sanguinario,' yet admits his talent and insight. Cuad. Hist., ii. 400-1. Alamani points to his wide influence in the kingdom, where he could direct elections at will. Hist. Méj., iii. 427.
he adds, of deluding a party by means of a false password and firing upon it, Cuad. Hist., ii. 366, 'quedando casi todos muertos y prisioneros.' Negrete, Mex. Siglo XIX., vi. 61; Mendíbil, Resúmen Hist., 187.
