as far from my
intentions. As some vindication of the step I was about to take, I may be
permitted to observe that until it was intended to apply for a passport,
I not only did not take the step, but did not intend it--which is perhaps
a greater attention to that article of the Naval Instructions than many
commanders have paid to it. If their Lordships understood this matter in
its true light, I should hope that they would have shown the same
indulgence to me as to Lieutenant Kent of the Buffalo, and many others
who have not had the plea of a passport.

"If their Lordships' sentiments should continue the same, whatever may be
my disappointment, I shall give up the wife for the voyage of discovery;
and I would beg of you, Sir Joseph, to be assured that even this
circumstance will not damp the ardour I feel to accomplish the important
purpose of the present voyage, and in a way that shall preclude the
necessity of any one following after me to explore.

"It would be too much presumption in me to beg of Sir Joseph Banks to set
this matter in its proper light, because by your letters I judge it meets
with your disapprobation entirely; but I hope that this opinion has been
formed upon the idea of Mrs. Flinders continuing on board the ship when
engaged in real service."

Banks promised to lay before the Admiralty the representations made to
him, but Flinders a few days later (June 3rd) wrote another letter in
which he conscientiously expressed his determination not to risk a
misunderstanding with his superiors by taking his wife:

"I feel much obliged by your offer to lay the substance of my letter
before the Admiralty, but I foresee that, although I should in the case
of Mrs. Flinders going to Port Jackson have been more particularly
cautious of my stay there, yet their Lordships will conclude naturally
enough that her presence would tend to increase the number of and to
lengthen my visits. I am therefore afraid to risk their Lordships' ill
opinion, and Mrs. Flinders will return to her friends immediately that
our sailing orders arrive.

It can well be believed that "my Lords" of the Admiralty did not feel
very considerate towards ladies just at that time; for one of their most
brilliant officers, Nelson, was, while this very correspondence was
taking place, gravely compromising himself with Emma Hamilton at Naples.
St. Vincent and Troubridge, salt-hearted old veterans as they were, were
just the men to be suspicious on