An American officer was also sent urging the necessity of the release of the prisoner.

He was not granted an interview, but was kindly cared for in the mess-room of the 81st, where the officers gave him a hearty reception by a grand dinner, ordered expressly for the occasion.

Despite the swaggering and menacing tone of this guest, the evening was spent in successive rounds of mirth and exciting gaiety.
Songs, toasts and speeches greeted the ears of the envoy, and amidst these he almost forgot the object of his mission.

At last the fine was paid.

It was not until the matter was finally settled, by the decision of the king of the Netherlands, that comparative peace was restored.
This chapter now ends, having described the principal events that marked the year 1827..