[Translation.], October 19, 1865
[Translation.]
Mariano Escobedo, general of the Mexican republic, commanding division of the north, to his subordinates:
Companions: In marching against the city of Matamoras I must tell you that I have faith in our triumph, because I reckon with your bravery and discipline.
Soldiers of the republic! You know that your mission is to fight for the independence of our country, to give its inhabitants all classes of guarantees, and such as are compatible with the circumstances of the war which we are obliged to sustain. A throne has been raised by foreign bayonets in our capital; and this throne, self-degraded, weak, and impotent, and a truly humiliating representation of sovereign nationality, must fall, to enable our country to recover its proper dignity and existence.
It appears incredible, but there exist Mexicans who lend it their support, and such are those whom you will have to encounter in Matamoras. They are mis ed But they cannot possibly feel the firm conviction of being in the right, because the country speaks to their heart as the sentiments of maternity speak to that of the child. Their cause is bad, while yours has the sympathy of the world; and the greater the privations, sufferings, and difficulties you have to confront in its defence, so much more glorious is it to uphold it Continue as you have commenced. In this State, wherever you have passed, you have by your good conduct conquered friends, strong and brave on the field of battle in defence of liberty, who have united, and continue to unite with you, and reflect splendor on the arms of the republic.
Fear nothing! Soon will the national flag wave majestically over this entire frontier, because you sustain it with an arm that knows not how to give way before foreign oppression, but knows how to fall terribly upon those who try to defile it, and also punish these who undertake to cover their transgressions under its folds, who outrage peaceful inhabitants, or deprive them of the free use of their property.
Forward, companions! There are yet thousands of Mexican hearts in the heroic Matamoras whose wishes are propitious to you. It is there you will receive the congratulations of him who with pride calls himself your general and friend.