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