Señor de Santa Anna to Mr. Seward
Dear Sir: The political crisis in Mexico has arrived at a climax, and I can no longer remain inactive, and not endeavor to contribute towards the salvation of my country.
While Juarez, Ortega, and the chiefs of various bands are disputing among themselves the right to govern, my unfortunate country is rapidly declining, and from advices lately received, it is certain that Maximilian is contemplating leaving Mexico, in which event the country will most assuredly be plunged into anarchy more terrible than has yet been experienced.
From this destiny I wish to save my country, and assist in the expulsion of the last foreign bayonet; and more than all, I am desirous of securing to Mexico peace, and to protect my countrymen as well as foreigners, and give them an opportunity to select the man by whom they wish to be governed.
Your excellency, while at St. Thomas, encouraged me in my enterprise, and 1 again repeat that the moment has arrived when it is necessary to act, and all I now require is your support. To this end I have charged Mr. J. N. Lake, of this city, to hand you this letter, he being a confidential medium through whom to convey my ideas to you, and give you all necessary explanations, and who will have full power and authority from me, duly executed, to negotiate and transact any and all business relative to this matter.
Upon your assistance I rely in this undertaking, when the interests of a sister republic are at stake, and when the time has arrived to strike the decisive blow for the expulsion of foreign intruders and the tyrannical domination of France.
Should we now succeed in our endeavors, and once more see Mexico free and my countrymen reinstate me in the highest position within their gift, it would afford me the greatest pleasure to reciprocate all your kindness, and show my gratitude to your government with a liberal hand.
Should your excellency desire a personal interview with me, I shall be willing to undertake the journey, preserving, of course, all possible privacy during the same.
I have the honor to be your excellency’s obedient servant,
His Excellency William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.