It was, to bear away for the Sandwich
Islands. He persuaded himself that it was a matter of necessity,
and that the distressed condition of the ship left him no other
alternative; but we rather suspect he was so persuaded by the
representations of the timid captain. They accordingly stood for
the Sandwich Islands, arrived at Woahoo, where the ship underwent
the necessary repairs, and again put to sea on the 1st of
January, 1813; leaving Mr. Hunt on the island.
We will follow the Beaver to Canton, as her fortunes, in some
measure, exemplify the evil of commanders of ships acting
contrary to orders; and as they form a part of the tissue of
cross purposes that marred the great commercial enterprise we
have undertaken to record.
The Beaver arrived safe at Canton, where Captain Sowle found the
letter of Mr. Astor, giving him information of the war and
directing him to convey the intelligence to Astoria. He wrote a
reply, dictated either by timidity or obstinacy, in which he
declined complying with the orders of Mr. Astor, but said he
would wait for the return of peace, and then come home.
