led, so
far as was consistent with not leaving them positive wrecks on the
water; for with my single ship, to have made prisoners of so numerous a
body of troops was manifestly impossible.

The brig _Bahia_ having opportunely hove in sight, I seized four of the
vessels carrying troops, and ordered Captain Haydon to convoy them to
Pernambuco, to the President of which province I addressed the following
letter:--

Pedro Primiero, July 7th, 1823.

ILLUSTRIOUS AND EXCELLENT SIR,

The abandonment of Bahia by the enemy, in
consequence of the rigours of blockade--and the capture of half of
his army, ensigns, artillery, and stores, are events which you will
be gratified to learn. Part of the captured officers and troops I
send in for your disposal, having engaged that they shall be treated
after the manner which may justly be expected from the high
character of the Government of His Imperial Majesty, and the
customary practice of all European states. I have to request that
you will be pleased to order their disembarkation without delay.

We require seamen to finish the war. If you will be pleased to
grant the bounty of 24 dollars per man, as at Rio--charging the
same to the Government--you will render an essential service to
your country. I do not mean Portuguese seamen--who are enemies;
but able seamen of any other nation, and I need scarcely say, that
from my knowledge of the character of the men, I should prefer
British seamen to all others.

I shall probably have the honour of shortly making myself known
to you, but that depends on circumstances over which I have no
control. If we can come in, permit me to observe, that it would be
conducive to the health of my crew to have ready a supply of fresh
provisions and fruits, especially lemons and oranges. I hope you
will excuse my freedom in mentioning these things, as the health
of the men is as conducive to the interests of the empire as are
the ships of war themselves.

I have the honour, &c.

COCHRANE.

Sent by the _Balia_, Captain Haydon.

By the same opportunity I despatched the following to the Minister of
Marine:--

ILLUSTRIOUS SIR,

I have the honour to inform you that half the
enemy's army, their colours, cannon, ammunition, stores, and
baggage, have been taken. We are still in pursuit, and shall
endeavour to intercept the remainder of the troops, and