CHAPTER I.

Invitation to take command of Chilian Navy--Arrival at Valparaiso--First expedition to Peru--Attack on Spanish shipping at Callao--Departure for Huacho--Capture of Spanish convoys of money--Paita taken--Return to Valparaiso to reorganise the squadron--Offer to give up my share of prize money to the Republic--This offer declined by the Supreme Director--Popular congratulations--Attempt on Lady Cochrane's life.