as soon as possible, to make the report of his voyages and to request a ship to continue them.
"D.: What can be the reason which has determined Captain Flinders to undertake a voyage on board of the so small a vessel?
"A.: To avoid losing two months on proceeding by China, for a ship sailing from Port Jackson was to put in China.
"D.: Does not Port Jackson offer frequent opportunities for Europe?
"A.: There are some, as he has observed it above, but that ship putting in China is the reason which determined him not to proceed that way.
"D.: At what place had the Cumberland put in?
"A.: At Timor.
"D.: What could be the reason of her putting in at Timor?
"A.: To take fresh provision and water. He has left Timor 34 days ago.
D.: What passports or certificates has he taken in that place?
"A.: None.
"D.: What has been his motive for his coming at the Isle of France?
"A.: The want of water. His pumpers (sic) are bad, and his vessel is very leaky.
"D.: To what place does Captain Flinders intend to go to from this island?
"A.: Having no passport for the Dutch Government, he cannot put in the Cape, according to his wishes, and will be obliged to stop at St. Helena.
"D.: What can be the reason of his having none of his officiers, naturalis, or any of the other persons employed in said expedition?
