Vernet seized three American sealing ships in an attempt to control fishing in Falklands’ waters. In retaliation the United States sloop Lexington, which was in the region, entered Berkeley Sound in December 1831.  After inviting Brisbane on board the Americans raised the stars and stripes and proceeded to destroy the small settlement of Port Soledad and proclaimed the Islands “free of all government”.

The principal settlers were then carried off on the Lexington to Buenos Aires.  Brisbane in particular was singled out, and treated as a pirate, being given much abuse while continually shackled.