ourths of its
strongholds, and whilst the enemy besieged the capital of the state,
which was in danger of falling into their power. His lordship expressed
his regret that so many able and brave military officers as those he saw
before him should occupy themselves with civil discussions in the
present state of their country.

"Upon this being interpreted to Kolokotrones, he became exceedingly
warm, and urged that the duty he was now occupied with was more
essential than any other. He, however, cooled on seeing, as we presume,
that no one seconded his opinion, which he evidently expected by his
glances towards his companions. Kolokotrones remained some time without
saying a word, and then rising, took Lord Cochrane by the hand and
assured him that he would do his utmost to produce a reconciliation of
parties. Lord Cochrane urged that the termination of differences between
the parties should be within the space of three days. Kolokotrones
requested five; but afterwards caused his interpreter, Count Metaxas, to
say that possibly an answer might be received from Hermione even before
the shortest period fixed. Count Metaxas was the last who left the
cabin, and as soon as the others were gone, he turned to Lord Cochrane
and assured him that his utmost endeavours should not be wanting to
accomplish so desirable an object. The Count has evidently the
management of Kolokotrones, to whom he probably adheres in order to
arrive at real power, under the sanction of an individual on whose
shoulders may be heaped all the evil measures to be anticipated in
acquiring or upholding any authority over a multitude of rival chiefs
and their rude followers.

"Kolokotrones and his party then left the schooner, having first
directed one of their soldiers to await Lord Cochrane's reply to the
communication of the Assembly. A deputation from Hydra, and a crowd of
other visitors, however, precluded Lord Cochrane's despatching the
courier until the following morning."

The reply, dated the 21st of March, was wise and bold. "I have had the
honour," wrote Lord Cochrane, "to receive the despatches which you have
addressed to me, and I cannot but be flattered by the sentiments that
they convey. This satisfaction is the more lively because I have had the
opportunity of becoming personally acquainted with his excellency
General Kolokotrones, and the officers who accompanied him. But I freely
acknowledge that it is blended with a feeling of regret, in t