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338 A HISTORY OF CHILE would be voted by another extraordinary session, but rather that some sort of a law would more than likely be passed for the deposition of the alleged dictator ; therefore, the president called no session, and disre- garded protests and representations from citizens, cor- porations and the press. But the government could not keep the state machin- ery oiled very long without funds. The temporary sup- plies would be of no avail after September 31st. Con- gress was daily receiving the support of popular sym- pathy, particularly in Valparaiso and Santiago, and had a strong following in the army and navy, despite the alleged active efforts of Balmaceda to win over the support of the officers, and to replace the obdurate ones with his own partisans. Summary action, and that very soon, was necessary if the president maintained his power and persisted in his dictatorial policy. The president issued a manifesto January ist, 1891, declaring it his intention to adhere to his constitu- tional powers and functions, to stand by the strict let- ter of the constitution whether or not some of its pro- visions were to be considered as constituting it, in many respects, dead letter. With its unfairness and effete provisions he had nothing to do ; nor had he anything to do with the new theories of parliamentary government until such theories were embodied in posi- tive law. He might be bound ordinarily to heed the advice of the constitutional committee, but why call another extra session which would only pass votes of censure upon him and would not vote supplies? There would soon be elections, then the people might decide ; in the meantime, he would perform his duty according to his oath and his constitutional rights. Such was the argument. The acts of the president had been declared illegal