pt on shore in such numbers, that there were
not sufficient left to perform the duties of reefing and steering. I
therefore resolved on sending part of the squadron to Chili, and with
the remainder to proceed to Guayaquil, in order to repair and refit for
a cruise on the coast of Mexico in search of the Spanish frigates.

We reached Guayaquil on the 18th of October, and were extremely well
received by the authorities, who saluted the Chilian flag, the like
compliment being paid to their own. The work of repairing and refitting
occupied six weeks, during which period the newly-constituted Government
rendered us all the assistance in its power, entering into the most
friendly intercourse with us. The expenses, which were heavy, were all
defrayed out of the uncondemned prize-money remaining on board, this
rightfully belonging to the officers and seamen, as never having had
their previous claims satisfied by the Government, on which account it
had been retained. To inspire the seamen with the reasonable expectation
that the Chilian Government would reimburse them for their generosity, I
added money of my own, on which they willingly consented to the
appropriation of that due to the squadron.

Before quitting the anchorage, I was honoured with a public address, and
thinking the opportunity good for striking a blow at those Spanish
prejudices which, in spite of independence, still lingered from force of
habit, the compliment was returned by the following address:--

GUAYAQUILENOS,

The reception which the Chilian squadron has met
with from you not only shews the generosity of your sentiments, but
proves that a people capable of asserting their independence in spite
of arbitrary power must always possess noble and exalted feelings.
Believe me, that the state of Chili will ever be grateful for your
assistance, and more especially the Supreme Director, by whose
exertions the squadron was created, and to whom, in fact, South
America owes whatever benefit she may have derived from its
services.

May you be as free as you are independent, and as independent
as you deserve to be free! With the liberty of the press, now
protected by your excellent Government, which discriminates
enlightenment from that fount, Guayaquil can never again be
enslaved.

See what difference a year of independence has produced in public
opinion. In those whom you then looked upon as enemies, you have