Irresolute and lacking confidence in himself, he was readily influenced by others to adopt unsuitable or impractical plans. While inviting able men like Ramirez and Lacunza, he yielded to mere theorists or schemers, to congenial foreigners who either failed to understand their surrounding or subordinated everything to private aims. Ramirez was not hearty enough in his coöperation as imperial minister. His republican inclinations served to lessen the energy and thoroughness of action demanded by circumstances, and led to half-hearted measures and false conclusions. Later, under Lacunza, the turn of events could hardly be changed; and Lares, the evil star of two preceding governments, allowed blind selfishness and illusion to undermine the last imperial foothold.
None of these men, however, exercised any real influence over Maximilian, such as was wielded by Eloin, who, while talented and energetic enough, lacked practical ability, and was in many respects a visionary reformer like his master. Marquez had not the broad mind and elevated character needed to evolve grand schemes, or to long maintain a controlling influence. Mejía and Mendez were but brave and loyal soldiers; and among other later friends and companions Miramon alone exercised any real power. Although a brilliant soldier, who by his sword and magnetism had made his way to the presidential chair at the early age of twenty-six, he was too much imbued with illusions, lacking the stability of character and maturity of mind requisite for either a great leader or a good counsellor.[1]
- ↑ The half-uttered imputations against his loyalty have not enough foundation to merit consideration, and he atoned for any such intent with his blood. Salm-Salm states that he accused himself in his last days of having brought Maximilian into captivity. Diary, i. 301. But this may refer to his neglect of better campaign plans. Even this writer is ready to believe that he was merely unconsciously the evil genius of the archduke.
altivo, y vengativo,' even false and inconstant. Méj., iv. 340. D'Héricault points to his freedom from prejudice in the desire to leave even the hostile attorney Aspiroz a legacy. Max., 323. Arias himself is ready to admit his humane sentiments. Reseña, 244. In the suite of these different representative opinions we find most others follow, the generality being ready to praise, especially Stern, Basch, Kollonitz.
