CHAPTER XV.
REPUBLICAN RECONSTRUCTION.
1867-1868.
Movements of Marquez and Diaz — The Last Imperial Cabinet — Progress of Republican Arms — Marquez in Mexico — Diaz Besieges the City — Results of Intervention — Juarez' Entry into the Capital — New Republican Cabinet — Treatment of Rebels and Traitors — Proposed Reforms — Parties and Principles — Election Laws — Popular Discontent — Diplomatic Relations
We will now follow briefly the fortunes of Marquez and Diaz, and the progress of affairs subsequent to the downfall of the empire. In pursuance of preconcerted arrangements, under the emperor's orders, Marquez made on the 2 2d of March, 1867, a successful sally with 1,200 cavalry. His departure became known soon after, however, at Escobedo's headquarters, and the fact was at once communicated to Porfirio Diaz, who commanded the republican forces operating in the valley of Mexico; a division of cavalry, 4,000 strong, was also despatched to act in concert with the troops of Lalanne, Cuéllar, and others, and prevent the passage of hostile reënforcements that might leave the capital.
Marquez effected a difficult though rapid march through the sierra without meeting with any serious opposition from the enemy,[1] and reached Mexico in the morning of the 27th.[2] He lost no time in carry-
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