with this body that all the vexations directed against me originated--as
has been asserted by writers on Chili, at the instigation of General San
Martin; but having no documentary evidence to prove this, I shall not
take upon myself to assert the fact, notwithstanding that the subsequent
conduct of the General gave more than probability to the generally
received opinion.

There was, however, no doubt but that General San Martin had been privy
to much of the annoyance given to the squadron and myself, as, upon my
accusing him of this, he replied that he only "wanted to see how far the
Supreme Director would allow a party spirit to oppose the welfare of the
expedition;" adding, "Never mind, my lord, I am general of the army, and
you shall be admiral of the squadron." _"Bien, milord, yo soy General
del exercito, y V. sara Almirante de la esquadra."_ His allusion to the
complicity of the Supreme Director I knew to be false, as His Excellency
was anxious to do all in his power both for the squadron and his
country; had not the Senate, on which he had conferred such
extraordinary powers, thwarted all his endeavours.

General San Martin was, however, much surprised when I shewed him the
letters and returned commissions of the officers, he having no
conception of their determination not to serve under any command but my
own; this step on their part being fraught with the greatest danger to
the equipment of the contemplated expedition.

The Senate just noticed was an anomaly in state government. It consisted
of five members, whose functions were to remain only during the first
struggles of the country for independence; but this body had now assumed
a permanent right to dictatorial control, whilst there was no appeal
from their arbitrary conduct, except to themselves. They arrogated the