The rocks on which the South American Government have
split have hitherto been bad faith, and consequent temporary
expedients. No man has yet arisen, save yourself, capable of
soaring aloft, and with eagle eye embracing the expanse of the
political horizon. But if in your flight, like Icarus, you trust to
waxen wings, your descent may crush the rising liberties of Peru,
and involve all South America in anarchy, civil war, and political
despotism.

The real strength of Government is public opinion. What
would the world say, were the Protector of Peru, as his first act, to
cancel the bonds of San Martin, even though gratitude may be a
private and not a public virtue? What would they say, were the
Protector to refuse to pay the expense of that expedition which
placed him in his present elevated situation? What would they
say, were it promulgated to the world that he intended not even to
remunerate those employed in the navy which contributed to his
success.

What good can be arrived at by a crooked path that cannot be
attained by a straight and open way? Who has advised a tortuous
policy and the concealment of the real sentiments and intentions of
Government? Has an intriguing spirit dictated the refusal of pay
to the Chilian navy, whilst the army is doubly paid? Is it proposed
thus to alienate the minds of the men from their present service, and
by such policy to obtain them for the service of Peru? If so, the
effect will, I predict, be the contrary, for they have looked, and do
look, to Peru for their remuneration, and, if disappointed, they will
feel accordingly.