ao; and many merchantmen.

It is highly gratifying to me, after labouring under such difficulties
as were never before witnessed on board ships of war, to announce
the arrival of the Chilian squadron in Valparaiso--its cradle; where,
owing to its unceasing services in the cause of liberty and independence
of Chili, Peru, Colombia, and Mexico, it forms an object
of admiration and gratitude to the inhabitants of the New World.

(Signed) COCHRANE.

By the inhabitants of Valparaiso our return was hailed with every
manifestation of delight, almost every house in the place being
decorated with the patriot flag, whilst other demonstrations of national
joy showed the importance which the Chilian people attached to our
services, in spite of the obstacles which they well knew had been
opposed to them.

On the 4th of June, the following letters of thanks were forwarded to
me:--

Ministry of Marine,
Santiago de Chili, June 4th, 1822.
Most Excellent Sir,

The arrival of your Excellency at Valparaiso with the
squadron under your command, has given the greatest pleasure to
his Excellency the Supreme Director. In those feelings of gratitude
which the glory acquired by your Excellency during the late
campaign has excited, you will find the proof of that high
consideration which your heroic services so justly deserve.

Among those who have a distinguished claim are the chiefs and
officers, who, faithful to their duty, have remained on board the
vessels of war of this State, a list of whom your Excellency has
honoured me by enclosing. These gentlemen will most assuredly
receive the recompense so justly due to their praiseworthy constancy.

Be pleased to accept the assurance of my highest esteem.

JOAQUIM DE ECHEVERRIA.

His Excellency the Vice-Admiral and
Commander-in-Chief of the Squadron,
the Right Honourable Lord Cochrane.

From the preceding letter it will be observed that my old opponent,
Zenteno, was no longer at the head of the Department of Marine, but was
appointed Governor of Valparaiso, where he exercised the office of
Port-Admiral, a position in which, with all his former enmity, he
contrived, notwithstanding the complete satisfaction of the Government
with my services, to give me great annoyance.

In addition to the above acknowledgment of our services, a decree was
issued commanding a medal to be struck in commemoration thereof.