Porfirio Diaz to The Citizen Matias Romero , Envoy Extraordinary and, February 2, 1866

[Translation.—Extract.]

Very Dear Friend: I received your estimable favor of the 18th of December to-day, and with it the communications to which you allude; the others you mention have not reached me yet.

I enclose you an open letter to the President; it and the one I wrote to Mr. Godoy, of which you must have a copy, contain the chronicle of my movements up to this time; you can refer to them.

I am sorry that you have to speak to me in such a positive way in regard to means; it deprives me of hope for the future. You say the loan “has not realized our hopes;” so I must say my hopes are gone, too. As I am in want of money, also, I can do nothing. You may be sure a very small sum now would be worth more than millions hereafter; for my men are discouraged for want of pay, and those who come to me I am obliged to send away, because I cannot arm them and support them.

* * * * * * * * *

Tehuantepec was attacked by Figueroa and the Juchitecs, and I attacked Tlaxiaco on the 6th of January: these are the only two battles this year. There was a rising in Miahuatlan on the 24th, and the rout of traitors at Silacayoapam on the 28th. Now a serious expedition is coming against me, and it is to be seen how I am to meet it. The annexed letter will give you an idea of my situation, and show you the scanty means I have to resist the Austrians and traitors that are coming down upon me.

I remain your affectionate and sincere friend,