CHAPTER I.
Brazilian and Portuguese factions—Don Pedro ordered to quit Brazil—Appointed "Perpetual Protector"—Proclaimed Emperor of Brazil—Efforts to obtain foreign officers and seamen—The naval command offered to me—Acceptation thereof—Arrival at Rio de Janeiro—Visit of inspection to the squadron—Condition of the vessels—Inferiority of seamen—Imperial affability—Attempt to evade the terms offered me—This failing, to reduce the value of my pay—Pretended commission conferred—And refused—The point argued—I decline the command—The Prime Minister gives in—Explanatory Portaria—Formal commission—Orders to blockade Bahia—Portuguese faction—Averse to me from the outset.