This forcible expulsion of the Archbishop was an act of political folly,
as being tantamount to a declaration that he was too good a man to
countenance the designs of those who had usurped an unjust dominion over
his flock. Had the promises of Chili been carried out in their
integrity, both the Archbishop and his clergy would have used all their
influence to promote the cause of liberty--not more from interest than
inclination. The expression of the Archbishop, that "the independence of
Peru was _for ever_ sealed," was, however, erroneous. Tyranny is not
composed of enduring materials.

The Bishop of Guamanga, who resided at Lima, was also ordered to leave
Peru within eight days, without reason assigned, and thus the
opposition of the Church was got rid of, though not without deep feeling
on the part of the Limeños, who were, however, powerless to help their
clergy or themselves.

The affairs of the squadron becoming every day worse, and a mutinous
spirit being excited from actual destitution, I endeavoured to obtain
possession of the castles of Callao by negociation, offering to the
Spanish Commandant permission to depart with two-thirds of the property
contained in the fort, on condition of the remainder, together with the
forts, being given up to the Chilian squadron. My object was to supply
the crews with the absolute necessaries, of which they stood in need
from the evasive conduct of the Protector, who continued to withhold,
not only pay, but provisions, though the squadron had formed the ladder
on which he had ascended to his present elevated position. There were
large sums and a vast amount of plate in the possession of the Spanish
garrison,--the wealthy citizens of Lima--fearing their liberators--having
deposited both in the forts for security. A third of this would have
relieved us from our embarrassments. The vessels were, in fact, in want