His resignation was demanded, Doblado and Ortega sending a commission to Saltillo to that effect. Juarez refused to comply, on the ground that not he but the form of government was the object of attack; and, chosen by the people to defend their institutions, he felt bound to maintain his position while they were imperilled.[1] There had been some talk in congress of another faction, to amend the constitution so as to conciliate a large element, but without leading to anything definite. The firmness of Juarez, and his desire to avoid discord, prevailed with Doblado and Ortega. Not so with Vidaurri, who had joined in the outcry. The yielding of the others caused him to shift his base a little, and demand of the minister of finance the restoration to the government of the sources of federal revenue so long abandoned to his state. He declared that Nuevo Leon and Coahuila could not at the time spare these means, and indignant at the interference now begun in departments which he had hitherto controlled like a sovereign, he peremptorily forbade custom-house collectors from paying over any funds to Juarez.[2] The latter replied by stating that he was about to transfer his seat of government to Monterey, Vidaurri's capital, attended by the troops of Doblado, and with General Antillon in close proximity.[3] Vidaurri made some preparations, but dared not offer decided resistance, and Juarez entered on February 12th, amidst the sullen silence of the people. Reënforcements were approaching, however, to sustain the rebellious governor, who had persuaded Doblado to retire, and two days later the president found it prudent to return to Saltillo.[4]
- ↑ These reasons he explained in a letter to Doblado of Jan. 20th, intimating that French intrigues were at the bottom of the outcry. The latter idea was plausible, from the fact that the outcry was taken up by Vidaurri, who stood suspected of communicating with the French.
- ↑ A lengthy correspondence ensued, culminating Feb. 1st in a pointed demand on Vidaurri to obey. Méx., Col. Leyes, 1863-7, i. 306, etc.
- ↑ Commanding respectively 1,500 and 2,000 men. A circular of Feb. 5th announced the change of capital. Méx., Col. Leyes, 1863-7, i. 308.
- ↑ Vidaurri had withdrawn into the citadel with the troops at his immediate command, and with the seeming connivance of Doblado, who made a separate
