Foster to Hamilton Fish, March 24, 1875

No. 423. Mr. Foster to Mr. Fish.

Sir: Referring to my dispatches numbered 252 and 255, on the present situation of the republic, I have to report no further armed outbreaks than those already noticed in the State of Michoacan. These opponents of the government have assumed no greater proportions than that of guerrilla bands, but they are still able to maintain a kind of military organization, in spite of the efforts of the federal troops to suppress them.

In addition to the forces already operating against them, it is announced that re enforcements have been ordered from the garrison in this city. I inclose herewith a copy and translation of the revolutionary plan under which they claim to be operating, which will, in some measure, indicate the basis upon which the reactionary or church party might attempt to overthrow the existing government, if it could count upon success. But it is hardly probable, however, that the present movement will amount to anything more formidable than a mountainous guerrilla warfare, which with reasonable energy may be soon suppressed.

General Rocha, who is now “in quarters” (constructive arrest) at Celaya, in the interior, has written a letter, in which he denies that he ever had any conference or complicity with the conservative or church party, and pledges his unalterable devotion to the liberal party and principles.

The situation of the country may still be considered somewhat grave, in view of the religious antagonism on account of the passage of the law enforcing the reform measures and the departure of the Sisters of Charity, added to the general prostration of business, but the government claims its ability to preserve the peace and enforce obedience to the laws.

I am, &c.,