success was attainable, could not be secured, and there was much ground for discouragement. Not only did Castillero present these facts in a strong light, but he also confirmed the report that a strong force was being fitted out in Mexico to reconquer California. It was merely a question under what leaders the country should be restored to its national allegiance, and he made no secret of his preference for Alvarado. To aid in the final triumph of the men who had dealt so unfairly with him seemed no part of the governor's duty, and his desire to remain in office was naturally strong. Moreover Castillero assured him that by his influence with the government, if sent to Mexico as a commissioner, he could prevent the sending of the military force, which would of course be ruinous to the country, and could probably secure a confirmation of Alvarado's title as governor. Finally, there can be but little doubt that Castillero brought the news that by the decree of December 30, 1836, one day after the adoption of the constitution, the Californias had been formed into a department, and that thus one of the main objects sought by Alvarado's party had been secured.[1] It is not strange that under the circumstances Don Juan Bautista was converted to centralism.
It was on July 4th that Portilla announced the agreement of the northern pronunciados to accept the constitutional laws, and the consequent withdrawal of his army to San Gabriel.[2] On July 9th Alvarado issued a proclamation to the people, a very graceful effusion, albeit not very explicit as an explanation of his late change of front, bearing evident marks of hav-
- ↑ Mexico, Leyes Constitucionales, 29 de Dic. 1836, in Arrillaga, Recop. 1836, (2) 317-78. Decree of Dec. 30th, making the Californias a department, in Id., 379-80. It does not appear that Castillero brought official news of this decree, though Alvarado immediately called himself gov. of the dept of Alta Cal.
- ↑ July 4th, Portilla to ayunt. of S. Diego. Hayes' Doc., MS., 73; Id., Mission Book, i. 322; S. Diego, Index, MS., 42. The communication is headed 'Division of operations of the sup. govt.' July 8th, a similar document read to ayunt. of Angeles, and congratulations expressed for so happy a result. Los Angeles, Arch., MS., iv. 323.
