into contempt, and the way opened for the invasion of that
country. The enemy's ships of war have all fallen into our hands
or by our means have been compelled to surrender. Their merchant
vessels have been seized under their very batteries, whilst the
Chilian transports and trading vessels have been in such perfect
security that not even the smallest has been compelled to haul down
its flag. Amongst these achievements, the capture of the _Esmeralda_
has reflected lustre on the Chilian marine equal to anything recorded
in the chronicles of ancient States, greatly adding to Chilian
importance in the eyes of Europe; whilst, from the vigilance of the
naval blockade, the fortifications of Callao were finally compelled
to surrender."

"This happy event, so long hoped for, was by all considered to
complete our labours in Peru, and to entitle us if not to a remuneration
from that State, _as in the case of those officers who abandoned
the Chilian service_! yet, at least, to a share of the valuable property
taken by our means, as awarded under similar circumstances by
other States, which, by experience, are aware of the benefit of
stimulating individuals by such rewards for great enterprises undertaken
for the public good. But, alas! so far from either of these
modes of remuneration being adopted, _even the pay so often promised
was withheld, and food itself was denied, so that we were reduced to a
state of the greatest privation and suffering; so great, indeed, that
the crew of the Lautaro abandoned their ship for want of food, and
the seamen of the squadron, natives as well as foreigners, were in a
state of open mutiny, threatening the safety of all the vessels of the
State_."

"We do not claim merit for not relieving ourselves from this
painful situation by an act of a doubtful nature, viz. by an
acquiescence in the intentions of the General Commanding-in-Chief
the expeditionary forces; _who, having declared us officers of Peru,_
offered, through his _aides-de camps_, Colonel Paroissien and Captain
Spry, honours and estates to those who would further his views.
_Nor do we envy those who received those estates and honours_; but
having rejected these inducements to swerve from our allegiance,
we may fairly claim the approbation of Government for providing
the squadron of Chili with provisions and stores at Callao, _out o