I then stated to him that this war was in fact a war as much in behalf of Brazil as of ourselves, and that if we were beaten in the contest, Brazil would be the next one to be assailed by Yankee propagandists.
These remarks were favourably received, the three gentlemen evidently sympathizing with us.
Captain Semmes continues his short diary as follows:-- Fresh wind and cloudy.

Painting ship, and making preparations for the reception of coal.

We are looking anxiously for the arrival of the Rio mail steamer, as we have a report brought by a Portuguese vessel from Pernambuco that a great battle has been fought; that we have beaten the enemy; and that we have marched upon Washington.

God grant that our just cause may thus have triumphed! The whole town is agog discussing our affairs.

Different parties take different views of them: the opposition party in the legislature, which is in session, being disposed to censure the government for its reception of us.
_Thursday, September 12th_ .-- Clear, with passing clouds; trade-wind fresh, as usual at this season of the year.