The next service performed by this officer was that of obtaining the liberation of the English merchant brig Nightingale, which had been detained by the Viceroy of Peru on suspicion of smuggling British manufactures into that country. Two different log books having been found on board that vessel, tended to confirm the false assertions of one of her crew, who had deserted to a Spanish frigate, and greatly increased the difficulty of saving her from condemnation. Captain O’Brien’s exertions were thus gratefully acknowledged:
“My dear Sir,– So we are free! I suppose you think that the good news has almost turned my head, I have had a letter from Mr. * * * *, who writes in great spirits, which of course shine upon me. They have been all this morning to what they call a ratification of the declarations. I don’t know whether they have finished on board the St. Sebastian yet or not, but I have no doubt now but all will go well. I am perfectly unable to express to you how very much I am indebted for your many kindnesses, and must wait until I can make my bow to you: I expect they will still detain us a day or two yet. I have already written three times for permission to communicate with the captains of the British ships of war, but as yet without success. Believe me, my dear Sir, very respectfully and sincerely yours,
When about to return to the eastern coast of South America, Captain O’Brien received the following from the Director of the republic of Chili.
“My dear Sir,– With the most unfeigned regret have I heard of your indisposition, and the more so as I fear the press of public business which at present occupies the whole of my time, will not allow me the pleasure of seeing you previous to your departure.
“Accept the assurances of my sincere friendship as an individual, and, as a public magistrate, the expressions of the high sense I entertain of the uprightness, integrity, and gentlemanly conduct which have characterized you during your residence with us. I had hoped you would have remained a longer time in Chili; but a soldier myself, I well know the calls of duty are imperious, and paramount to every feeling of private friendship. I shall feel highly gratified to hear from you. With best wishes for your speedy recovery, and the prosperity of your voyage, I remain, my dear Sir, your very faithful friend,
Captain O’Brien now returned to the Rio de la Plata, where
