unexpected and alarming conduct of the French Nation, demanded the whole attention of Government, and occaſioned an unavoidable ſuſpenſion of my final inſtructions. At this delay, however, the ſhip's company, who engaged in the voyage on proportionable ſhares of the profits reſulting from it, began to expreſs their diſſatisfaction; while the owners of different properties in the South Seas, particularly Meſſrs. Enderby's, Meſſrs. Champion and Meſſrs. Mether's, being anxious to convey early intelligence to their veſſels, of the ſituation of our domeſtic affairs, and the change that appeared to be taking place in Europe, earneſtly and anxiouſly recommended me to proceed on the voyage, without any other inſtructions than ſuch as had been verbally communicated to me, and the maps with which Mr. Stephens had been ſo kind as to furniſh me. It was, however, thought neceſſary that, previous to my departure, I ſhould apply for the uſual letter of leave of abſence, which I immediately obtained.
