the Law should take its course, and I have now to report that the Prisoners suffered
the extreme penalty of the Law yesterday.
Morning;
I have in my Despatch of the 24th April had occasion to report the numerous acts of Piracy that are constantly recurring in this vicinity, even within a few Miles of the Colony. One the present occasion certain articles which were captured on the 19th March last by Pirates in an Boat, in which Mr Pagès and the late Señor Brenes were Passengers, were found in the Boats of these Prisoners, which leaves but little doubt that they were complicated in that transaction. There are circumstances and the necessity that obviously exists that some measures should be taken to protect the Coast and vessels from Piratical attacks, which induced me, reluctantly to order the execution of the Prisoners.
The capture of Pirates by Her Majesty's Ships cannot of Course be considered an act entitling a Naval Officer to any particular credit, still, this is the first instance of any captures having been made by any of Her Majesty's Ships in the immediate neighbourhood since my arrival in this Colony; and I think it might stimulate this Branch of the service to use more than ordinary exertion, were Captain M'Innes brought before the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty as having been fortunate enough to afford good Service to the State.
I have the honor to be,
With the highest respect,
Your Lordships,
Most Obedient
Humble Servant