[Translation.], June 15, 1866.

[Translation.]

MEXICAN REPUBLIC—HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE—SECOND GENERAL-IN-CHIEF.

Amatlan, June 15, 1866.

The certified copies of the reports of the chief advancing on Tlacotalpam, which I enclose to your department, will inform you of the principal movements against the enemy holding that place taken place since my last communication, in which I informed you of its occupation by the imperial forces and five French war vessels, and of our encampment at Mototepec, only two leagues from that city, where our forces now are and will remain some time.

You will see by the last report that our camp has been moved from Mototepec because the enemy was re-enforced in Tlacotalpam, and their gunboats prevent us from attacking the place. They bombarded us on the 6th, and destroyed a number of houses, doing much damage to the inhabitants.

Another reason for our move is, the rainy season has begun, and the marsh lands of Tlacotalpam are not healthy, and we were compelled to go. to some higher region till the rainy season is over. After a rest in a more healthy region we may attack the enemy with more courage, and perhaps succeed in driving him from Tlacotalpam, the only place he has been allowed to hold in the line of my command.

I communicate this for the information of the President of the republic.