a period of inaction which was unfavorable to his complete success, even if it did not develop any actual triumph for his opponents. Notwithstanding the concessions gained, and their pretended enthusiasm, many influential southerners still chose to regard themselves as vanquished or tricked foes, rather than conciliated friends of the plan as it stood. They withheld that hearty support which alone could have resulted in political harmony. Pio Pico's actions were mysterious, and he was suspected of exerting all his influence secretly against the government. Manuel Requena and other recalcitrant Angelinos were sent by Castro to the governor, expecting to be banished to Sonoma, but were released by Alvarado on signing an agreement not to meddle in politics.[1] Alvarado's letters to General Vallejo at this time show the anxiety which he felt, containing alternate expressions of confidence and discouragement. Early in March the report was circulated, with quieting effects, that Vallejo was intending to come south with a hundred men.[2]
- ↑ Feb. 11, 1837, Alvarado to Vallejo, in Vallejo, Doc., MS., iv. 32. Requena's companions were Vicente Sanchez, Luis Arenas, Juan Gallardo, Antonio del Valle; J. M. Ramirez, Juan Salazar, Antonio Avila, and others. Rocha was in the number summoned, but ran away. Alvarado allowed him to return, but not to be comandante or administrator. Botello, Anales, MS., 69-70, says that Requena was sent into a kind of exile at Sta Inés, until in 1838 he retired to L. California. Janssens, Vida, MS., 89-92, describes the adventures of himself, Orozco, Rojas, and others, who fled from Los Angeles and also took refuge in the peninsula.
- ↑ Mar. 4th, ayunt., in answer to a request for quarters and supplies for Vallejo's men, refused to incur any expense; but resolves that there are plenty of supplies and probably buildings also to be had for money. Los Angeles, Arch., MS., iv. 285-6. Feb. 27th, March 13th, 16th, announcement of Vallejo's coming at S. Diego. Dept. St. Pap., Angeles, MS., xi. 70-2; S. Diego, Arch., MS., 173. March 6th, all quiet; but there may be trouble, as some don't wish Cal. to be a state. Governor's course approved by all good men. Robbers being strictly dealt with. Alvarado to Vallejo, in Vallejo, Doc., MS., iv. 209. March 12th, Cárlos Carrillo says to Vallejo that the people of Los Angeles are very well disposed, even more addicted to the new system than the Barbareños. Id., iv. 214. March 9th, the people well disposed. 'If freedom is not secured now, Californians will be slaves forever and forfeit the respect of men.' Civic force at Sta Bárbara, 150 men in good discipline. Arms bought of the Bolívar. Has gained favor by granting lands. The old folks are pleased with the title of 'governor,' as it reminds them of old times. The U. S. consul at Honolulu writes to Dana that 'there is nothing to fear from Mexico, which is not thinking of California. The present rulers of the state have more to fear from their own people, so many of them will want office. Chihuahua, Jalisco, and Zacatecas have pronounced against the central govt.' Alvarado
