Some enterprising Americans formed a whale fishery on the Chilian coast
near Coquimbo, where the sperm whale abounded, and so successful was the
fishery, that the speculation promised a fortune to all concerned. A
large plant had been provided, including abundance of casks to contain
the oil. The Government directed the whole of the casks to be seized for
the purpose of watering the squadron, that being easier than to provide
them themselves, which being done, pursuant to orders, the Americans
formed pits lined with clay, in which the oil was put till fresh casks
could be procured. On this, the Governor of Coquimbo forbade the
practice, as the wind might waft an unpleasant smell to Coquimbo, though
the trade wind never blew in that direction. The Americans were
therefore compelled to abandon the pursuit, and with it several sperm
whales which were lying in the bay ready for boiling.

An enterprising English engineer, Mr. Miers, brought out complete
machinery for smelting, rolling, and manufacturing copper, purchasing
land whereon to erect his factory. As soon as his purpose became known,
he was involved in a long and expensive law-suit to prevent the use of
the land which he had bought, the result being great pecuniary loss,
complete prevention of his operations, and the final removal of such of
his machinery as was not utterly spoiled, to Brazil.

It would be easy to multiply similar instances to a great extent, but
these will show that my advice to the Guayaquilenos was not unnecessary;
and to give counsel of this nature, wherever it could be applied, was my
invariable practice, in place of engaging in petty intrigues, or
bargaining for personal power or advantages, which, situated as I was, I
could have commanded to any extent by a sacrifice of my own principles.
Efforts of the above nature to enlighten the people, rendered me