QUINTERO. 333 
imagining that his retreat by the Andes would be cut of. Some 
time ago the same order was given, and it was supposed for the same 
purpose in fact, although it was to be executed by the vessel running 
along the coast, and taking up the passenger or passengers at the 
mouthof the Maypu. But neither then nor now would the squadron 
hear of her sailing, having a claim on her, as she was pledged to be 
sold to pay the officers and men. The Lautaro has accordingly 
loaded her guns, and is to sink her if she attempts to move without 
the Admiral’s express permission. The fort has loaded its guns also, 
but this the squadron may laugh at. His Lordship’s resuming the 
command will no doubt restore every thing to order. 
The party in the South have not been inactive by sea any more than 
by land. Captain Casey, who was captain of the port at Talcahuana, 
has the command of a large vessel which arrived off Valparaiso last 
night, but did not anchor. She sent a boat on board the O’Higgins, 
it is conjectured with the design of engaging the squadron to aban- 
don the cause of the Director, and to act in opposition to the govern- 
ment, whose sworn subjects every officer and man are. But if such 
were the design, it has failed. Captain Casey has proceeded to 
Coquimbo, where he is likely to meet with more success. That port, 
like those of the South, is grievously injured by the reglamento ; the © 
troops are equally indignant at the non-payment of their wages ; and 
if I may trust the reports brought by cattle-dealers and other itine- 
rant persons, they are all ready to revolt. The troops at Quillota and 
Aconcagua have refused to march to the capital ; and though the re- 
cruiting is going on in all the neighbouring districts, it is doubtful on 
which side the new troops will engage. We begin to feel the anxie- 
ties preparatory to a civil war. Our pistols are cleaned ; we have 
prepared a store of bullets: we feel an unusual uneasiness on account 
of the Admiral, who is riding to town with only his one peon. 
Wednesday, December 18th. — Three shocks to-day, all slight. 
Thursday, 19th. — One long shock, with a very loud noise, and 
several slight shocks. 
Friday, 20th.— Some very slight shocks ; none of which I felt, being 
