CHAPTER VIII.

Prolonged destitution of squadron--The men mutiny in a body--The seamen's letters--San Martin sends away the public treasure--My seizure of it--Private property restored--San Martin's accusations against me--The squadron paid wages--Attempt on the officers' fidelity--I am asked to desert from Chili--Ordered to quit on refusal--Monteagudo's letter--My reply--Justification of seizing the treasure--- No other course possible.