prevented. Passing over the
errors committed in the non-employment of the greater part of the
naval forces; passing over the disgust occasioned by the conduct
pursued towards the seamen, the opposition which had been
encountered in every step towards amelioration, and the mischief
occasioned by these and many other sources of disunion and
paralysation, I say--passing over all these--let me call Your
Excellency's attention to the only means which appear to me
practicable to save the country--if not from again devolving to
Portugal as colonial possessions, yet at least from protracted
war, and its attendant calamities.

Taking it then for granted that an expedition is actually fitting
out at Lisbon, destined to act against Brazil, the question is, how
and by what means can that expedition be most successfully opposed?
what is the force necessary? and how, under existing circumstances,
it can be procured?

(Here follow plans for the reorganization of the navy, and its mode
of operation, in order to prevent the anticipated invasion.)

As regards myself, it is my conviction that, though I might be
responsible for the discipline and good order of a single ship, I
could make nothing of a squadron so manned, as it inevitably must
be, and actuated by those feelings which have been excited to the
detriment of the Imperial service.

Since the date of my last letter to Your Excellency, I have
received a copy of the laws relative to prizes, and am convinced
that these laws differ in no material degree from the maritime code
of England, the adoption of which I had solicited; and that the
blame of all the disquiet that has been occasioned is entirely
owing to the non-execution of the laws by those individuals who
have been nominated to dispense justice, but who have perverted it.

(Signed) COCHRANE & MARANHAO.

Notwithstanding the threatening aspect of affairs in the North, no steps
were taken to satisfy the seamen. In place of this I received orders to
use my influence with them _to re-enter without payment!_ Determined
that the Government should not have to find fault with any want of
effort on my part, I obeyed the order, with what result the following
letter to the Minister of Marine will shew:--

In consequence of the directions from His Imperial Majesty,
communica