ld all at once
accomplish objects of such magnitude with a force so inferior, and
in great part so inexperienced and heterogeneously composed. On
this subject I beg to call your attention to the low opinion
entertained of our squadron by the enemy, as expressed in the
enclosed Bahia Gazette (No 65), which, on that point, is in
conformity with my own opinion as previously expressed.

I have the honour, &c. COCHRANE.

To the Prime Minister.

The following proclamation from the _Bahia Gazette_ will shew the
nature of these vapourings deliberately inserted by the Bahia
authorities:--

Last week the wind was Southerly, with rain, which has rendered
it impossible for our squadron to get at the Rio squadron, to decide
whether Brazil shall remain in the fetters of the usurper of Rio--
or enjoy constitutional liberty. Had they credited me more, we
should not have seen on our bar, an enterprising man who ruined
the commerce of the Pacific, and now thinks to regain the glory he
lost. The conduct of Lord Cochrane verberates in our ears--
examine his conduct in the Pacific, and observe that he lost all, and
was obliged to abandon everything to the Spaniards in Peru, afterwards
losing his little force in attacks and tempests. The Ministry
of Rio sent for him, giving him the pompous title of "Admiral of
the Brazils," and great promises--thinking that he would bring
with him a squadron to help the Imperial fraudulence. This is
the great wonder, who has come to carry fire and blood to the
trusty Bahia, bringing with him vessels manned, for the most part,
with Portuguese sailors--and not leaving in Rio a single vessel,
from which he did not take even the negro sailors.

It is only the _Pedro Primiero_ that is manned with the adventurous
foreigners, so that we shall fall upon the 74, and by beating
her, decide the business of Brazil. Our squadron is superior in
physical force, having at their head brave officers, with plenty of
troops. It is commanded in chief by an Admiral who has success
before him, and who wishes to regain the opinion of the public, so
that we may all wait a happy result.

Commerce--the strong pillar which upholds the Constitutional
edifice--has promised great recompense to the victorious fleet and
their chief, and has precious gifts for those who will shew their
gratitude to Bahia, and defend the