notwithstanding that since their return they had aided the Government in
the construction of wharves and other conveniences necessary for the
embarkation of troops and stores to Peru--a military expedition to that
country being now decided on.

The fact was, that the proceeds of the captures were appropriated by the
Government, which, to avoid repayment, declared that the conquest of
Valdivia was a _restoration!_ though the place had never been in
possession of Chili. On my refusing to allow the stores I had brought
from thence to be disembarked, unless as a compensation to the seamen,
it was alleged as a reason for the course pursued that even if Valdivia
had not belonged to the Republic, Chili did not make war on every
section of America. It was therefore put to my liberality and honourable
character whether I would not give up to the Government all that the
squadron had acquired?

These views were written by Monteagudo, afterwards the willing
instrument of General San Martin in Peru. I asked him, "Whether he
considered that which had been advanced as just, or according to law?"
The reply was, "_Certainly not, but I was ordered to write so!_" Finding
that I would surrender nothing, it was next debated in the Council
whether I ought not to be brought to a court martial for having delayed
and diverted the naval forces of Chili to the reduction of Valdivia,
without the orders of Government!

No doubt this course would have been decided on but from the unsettled
condition of the Republic and fear of the populace, who denounced the
views of the Ministry as heartily as they advocated my proceedings.

As nothing in the shape of justice could be obtained for the squadron,