ity, these well-drilled pupils of the master could interpret the slightest wink of superior policy, and knew their duty even in so far as to impress upon the duller brains of subordinates and civilians of prominence the prudence of following example, and that promptly. The result was an overwhelming indorsement of the new plan of Guadalajara, couched in the most earnest and even supplicating terms. Santa Anna felt moved by such devotion, such popular tribute to his greatness; but duty and principle should alone be his guides. Then came expostulations and entreaties. The country would assuredly fall into anarchy and ruin unless he retained the firm control. This was irrefutable. He would sacrifice himself for its good. Accordingly, on December 16, 1853, he issued a decree prolonging the dictatorship indefinitely, and bestowing upon himself the title 'most serene highness.' [1] This was generously supplemented by an amnesty to political exiles within the country, although not till the most dangerous had been sent out, and till arrangements had been made to keep others under close espionage. Still further shone Santa Anna's self-abnegation in declining for a second time the office of captain-general as well as the other titles, and he
- ↑ Its three articles, significantly addressed to and issued by the minister of war, alluded to the manifested desire of the 'authorities, corporations, and notables of all the departments' in support of the Guadalajara plan, and the expressed views of the council of state. Not a reference to the people, and yet by art. 1 'it is declared the will of the nation that the actual president retain the power with which he is invested for all the time he considers necessary to consolidate public order, and assure territorial integrity and the reform of administrative branches.' By art. 2 he is permitted to designate his successor in case of death or disability, in a sealed document intrusted to the ministry. Art. 3 attaches the title 'alteza serenísima' to the presidency. The minister adds that henceforth communications to the president must be headed 'serenísimo señor.' Méx., Legisl. Mej., 1853, 591-3. Confirmatory notices in Pinart Coll., no. 1114; Eco España, Nov. 26, Dec. 7, 20, etc., 1853, and other journals. As an offset, governors were entitled 'excelencia,'ayuntamientos 'ilustres,' and prefects 'señoría.' Domenech, who understands from certain private letters that the empire movement was more general, is disgusted with Santa Anna for his groundless fear of Iturbide's fate; 'il n'eut point le courage d'imiter Soulouque.' Ilist. du Mex., ii. 253. Even álvarez, now preparing to revolt, thought it politic to send congratulations. Iturbide received the title 'libertador, and his surviving descendants large grants of lands on account of the compensation once voted them, besides a pension of $12,000. Dublan and Lozano, Leg. Mex., vi. 326, 760.
