was specially well disposed toward Vallejo. Ábrego, in charge of the revenues, naturally favored the governor and people of Monterey, rather than the comandante and absent officials. Trouble arose, as already stated, in connection with the distribution of military funds and supplies, and complaints came in from all directions that the 'Monterey clique' was spending the public money for the exclusive benefit of its friends. To what extent these charges were well founded, it is impossible to determine; Alvarado, while his difficulties were not fully appreciated out of the capital, and while his old foes were willing to make the most of the coolness between him and Vallejo, was certainly subjected to influences not favorable to an impartial distribution of the revenues, or to a wise administration of the public interests.
There is no reason to question Vallejo's honest desire for the welfare of his country. He spent his own money freely to advance his plans of military reform. He believed his former associates were neglecting their duties, and his pride was deeply wounded by their attitude, which seemed to say, "Our need of you ended with the cessation of armed opposition to our rule; attend to your northern frontier; put your force at our disposal when we call for it; and leave us to govern in our own way." When, therefore, the governor did ask to have the troops of Monterey and San Juan put under his orders to avert dangers in the south, Vallejo refused until the exact nature of the danger should have been explained, declaring that his troops would be always ready to support the law, but not its abuse.[1] He attempted, however, to bring about an interview, for some time unsuccessfully.
- ↑ Sept. 9th, V. to A., in answer to demand of Aug. 14th. Dept. St. Pap., MS., iv. 278-80. Sept. 26th, Jimeno says the danger is past, and the force no longer needed! Vallejo, Doc., MS., viii. 179. Aug. 10th, Castro would be glad to meet V., but wishes him to come south. V. had ordered him to come to Sonoma. Id., viii. 33, 35. Sept. 4th, J. J. Vallejo, S. José, to the gen. Has not succeeded in having an interview with Alvarado and Castro to avert calamities. A. is controlled by Castro, and things have a suspicious air. Id., viii. 77. Sept. 6th, Prado Mesa writes very bitterly against the 'clique.' It
