Alexandria Gazette & Advertiser

LATE FROM MEXICO.

Extract of a letter from an officer in the Mexican service (a native of the United States, and lately a resident in this City) to his friend in Washington, dated Alvarado, July 10, 1823.

By this period I thought to have been in the city of Mexico, but it was impossible. I shall remain here during this summer: this place is perfectly healthy, and I have not the least hesitation in remaining. There is at present great confusion in this country; conspiracies on conspiracies every day. A few days ago, a detachment left this city for a small town about 10 leagues up the river, to put down a rebellious set who are in favor of the Emperor. My friend C***** was attached to it.-- They soon quieted matters, and brought down five of the leaders as prisoners. Several officers of rank were shot at the city of Mexico not long since, for conspiring against the present government. General St. Ana, professing to be such a great patriot, has become a traitor; but he never was considered any thing else by the people. He has marched with his army to San Luis Potosi, and there his troops declared him Emperor It., by the title of Antonios. His treachery occurred thus early in consequence of his not getting at the head of the government, to which he aspired: In fact, I see nothing but intrigue; each one is aiming for some great place; so that every thing is sacrificed for self aggrandizement. No one general, whose name is familiar in the United States, can be called a patriot, but General Victoria. He has given up every thing for his country's good. I think much difficulty must arise before things are properly adjusted:

Not long since an affray took place in one of the coffee houses in Mexico, in which two officers were killed. A dispute arose between them--one drew his sword and ran the other through instantly. Col: Estarbory (an intimate acquaintance of mine) entered at that moment, and in the corpse of this officer recognized his intimate friend. For this cowardly action he immediately demanded the survivor to meet him, which he refused. At the moment, the Colonel drew his sword, sans ceremonie, and killed him instantly. The guard interfered, and took the Colonel to prison but nothing serious can be apprehended, as those cases occur so frequently; indeed, I merely mention it to give you some idea how things are going on here. I march with a detachment to-morrow for Vera Cruz, but shall return as soon as possible, as sickness is prevailing there. I never enjoyed better health than since I have been in this country. How long I may remain in the service, is at present uncertain.