Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Charles Bishop - Memoranda on the ship Nautilus, Amboyna to Port Jackson and thence to Macao, 23 Oct. 1796 to 9 Sept. 1799
C 192

Nautilus at Sea Latt 12°20'N Longitude
130° Et of Greenwich
Thursday 2d Feb.y 1797

This Book, is particularly Intended, by me, for Mr.William Bishop, Attorney at Basingstoke in Hamshire and it is my earnest desire, and request, if any Accident should overtake me, that it may be forwarded to him by the first safe conveyance -

Given from under my hand and Seal, the date above written
Chas. Bishop

To the Person who shall succeed me in Command or situation, or who shall take cognisance of my Effects.

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[No 12] Amboyna 23d October 1796

To Sidenham Teast Esq.
Dsir, - I am happy to write by the companys packquet going to Madrass and now about sailing that we arrived here from China 15th Instant, and the Cargo is sold, so that on the 26th Capt. Pavin is to settle with me ---- and as I understand, Adml. Rannier will be glad to give me the bills on Govt. at an Early date for Cash, so that I am in hopes of being able to forward one sett by the Ship Eliza to Bombay who sails about 27th from whence they will come to you by the Earliest opportunity - I am sorry I am not enabled to send on a sett by this vessel ---- my accounts etc will be inclous with the bills, and brought up to 19th Instant the ballance will be seen in the following short Statement.

vizt. Due you 29 Augt: in Balance of Bill of Disbursements - $8485.00
Inshurence 10 pCt on 10,000 Drs alowed by Howel & Co. -$1000.00
Interest 2 pCt pMo. on 8485 Drs 1 Mo. 20 days - $282.36
Total - $9787.36

N.B.On examining the Accounts there is found to be $294 more and interest thereon 2 pCt 1 Mo.20 days - $9.81
Total Sp Drs - 10071.17

I wrote to you three letters duplicates of each other from Macao informing you of the Necessity I was laid under, of taking a bond of respondentia on the Cargo of Goods laden in the Ruby for purpose of having it inshured, 10 pCt being allowed by Msrs Howel & Pavin, and your account stands with him as above.

I write this hasty letter, has the pacquet may meet an Earlier opportunity of forwarding it to Europe than the Eliza, to advise you of our Situation, and you shall find in my letters accompanying the bills my motives explained, for what I have done, and tho' it may lessen me in your opinion as a merchant you will find they have tended to one general point of good, namly, to render the ill success of my voyage as little felt as possible. - I assure you Sir! my Anxiety on the subject has not favoured my constitution or health, and altho' I have been well ashured of your liberality, yet I cannot but feel anxious, to Clear up any unfavourable impression in Person, which my conduct, from the necessity of unforseen circumstances, may have given rise to.
I am &c &c &c Chas. Bishop

The 26th arrived, The Mercht. to whom Capt. Pavin sold the Cargo failed in his payment, consequently Pavin was not able to keep his promise with me. in a few days after He failed altogether and Pavin being his principall Creditor, took back the Cargo he had sold, and opened a store for himself - in the mean time Admiral Rannier was preparing to sail for India 1st: December. Therefore I was Obliged to give up all thought of going with him, Pavin not having been able to pay off 1/3d of the bond.

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Situated thus! I gave up the thoughts of going in the Navy Altho! Adml. Rannier had kindly taken me by the hand and promised to promote me the first opportunity, and Indeed! would have given me before He sailed an appointment to be 3d Lieuten't: of His Maj' 40 Gunship Resistance, if I had not told him my commercial concerns being so unsettled, I could not accept of any appointment what ever, until they were finished -

The Nautilus, a beautiful little Brig, 4 1/2 years old built at Calcutta, by Col: Kidd for a Yatch, burthen about 80 tons, registered 65, Copper bottomed, Assu'd and well found in Stores, was putt up for Sale, the mercht. who had failed, had bought her from her commander, for 7000 Dollars, but not being able to make good his payment, she was again offered to Sale - and having carefully examined her, I found she was well adapted to the trade on the NW Coast, and concieving, if I could arrive in time in China to rebuy the Leather war dresses, and European Goods, I had left behind, I should have funds Enough to make a voyage to the NW and be in good season on the Coast, and, with the knoledge of the trade and information I possess, of being able to get a large Cargo of Sea Otter Skins, and thus make up for the losses sustained by the infirm state of the Ruby. impressed with a resolution to persevere for what I considered the good of my employer, I Purchased this vessel for 6200 dollars, or 4000 Star Pagodas, Madrass currency, from Mr Charles Sheldon Timins agent and Commander of said Brig, 23d November 1796. the following is a Copy of her bill of sale.

This Indenture and bill of Sale made at Amboyna this 23d day of November in the year of our Lord (1796) between Charles Sheldon Timins, Master and Consignee of the brig Nautilus whereunto Major Alexander Kydd of the Hon'ble East India Companys Engineer Service, is owner, on the one Part and Charles Bishop, agent and consignee for Sidenham Teast Esq. Mercht: in Bristol on the other part.

Witnesseth that for and in consideration Four Thousand Star Pagodas, Madrass Currency, payable upon the delivery of the vessel &c, I, the aforesaid Charles Sheldon Timins, by virtue of Power of Attorney granted by the said Alexander Kydd do hereby sell and deliver up the Brig Nautilus, and the whole of her equipage and papers compleat, unto the aforesaid Charles Bishop, for the sole use and benefit of the said Sidenham Teast Esq. renouncing upon the payment of Four thousand Star pagodas, all

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Right and title to the said Brig, and my receipts for the said sum shall be considered as a total discharge of any claim the present owner, Alexander Kydd, his Heirs Executors &c hereafter make upon the Said Brig Nautilus.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty third day of November in the year of our Lord (one thousand 796)
Signed Chas: S. Timins

Signed seal'd & delivered
in the prescence of us where
no Stampt Paper is to be had
Signed - George Smith, Robt. Pavin

The vessel being rigged when I bought her, and wanting only ballast, water and Provisions, I began immediately to Equipp her for sea, to be ready to sail for Macao soon as Mr Pavin should have settled with me ---- on the 1st: December Adml. Rannier, in the Suffolk with his Squadron sailed for Madrass, by which opportunity I sent the following letter to be forwarded to Europe.

[No 13] Amboyna 30th November 1796

To Sidenham Teast Esq.

Two or three days before our arrival here a beautiful little brig called the Nautilus built about 4 1/2 years ago at Calcutta for a Yatch, arrived with a Cargo of Madrass goods, and after the delivery of it was offered for sale for 7000 Sp Dollars, which after mature consideration and deliberation I bought, for 4000 Star Pagodas Equal to 6200 Spanish dollars --- and now having premised the business with the purchase of the vessel, I have to lay before you my motives for so doing - trusting to my good intentions and your liberality that you will acquiesse with me - In the first place the Nautilus is almost new, perfectly sound and good, copper bottomed, sails remarkably fast -

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Is registered 65 Tons but measures and Carrys near 80, armed with six three pounders Brass Guns with six brass swivals, pretty well found in Masts, Yds, sails Rigging anchors and Cables, and very well calculated for the Fur trade on the Northwest coast of America, wither I mean to proceed with her, for you are to recollect that the Fur trade is not so barren yet, but that with the knowledge I have derived will be made to answer well, and had not the Ruby failed under us, I should most ashuredly have proved it to you in my last voyage.

I shall sail from hence in a fortnight, and proceed to Eastd: of the Peleu Islands thro' the straits of Luconnia and Formosa to Macoa, a passage most likely not more than six weeks. I expect not to be more than three weeks there, procureing an investment, part of which, will most probably be the 200 Leather war dresses, I brought down in the Ruby, a Certain 800 Otter Skins of the first quality. I shall with these I hope have sufficiency of Cash to lay in an investment for 2500 Skins and allowing myself no more than two months in so fine a vessel as the Nautilus to reach the coast of America, Expect to be in Norfolk Sound Latt: 56 1/2 N by 15th April, a period early enough to proceed any vessel from Europe or America.

I purpose the Establishment of the Nautilus to be with respect to myself and two officers, the same as in the Ruby with a crew of 10 Europeans and seven Chinese all at easy wages, and I declare to you Sir! that nothing in my life has ever been undertaken by me in which I was so sanguine and certain of success, as in my intended voyage - by the End of June I expect to have disposed of all my goods, after which I mean to fill up all my Casks with Salted Salmon which sell well and may be reckoned at 20£ pr Punchen - Capt. Packenham of His Majestys Ship Resistance, was with me when I proposed the plan of my voyage. He formerly commanded one of the Men of war on the Newfoundland Station, and is well acquainted with the fisheries and their value, and has laid open to me such a scene of Commerce, and with such sanguine Expectations of success, that he immediately offered me 10000 Pagodas eaqual to 15000 Spanish dollars, to invest me with to purchase a ship at Macao to go with the Nautilus to the NW. Coast and fill up Salted Salmon - I consider it certainly as a great mark of his confidence and Esteem, but of course declined his offer, untill I should be able to hear from you - The Experience I have derived has a trade and also as a Merchant, will I trust prevent me from involving myself in a speculation, that I am not certain of its Effect. - I am as far has Human!

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Certain of the Fur trade, and purpose when I shall arrive with skins from the Coast of China, to sell them, refitt the Nautilus, buy up an investment again, and the remainder, amounting most likely to the sum I now hold of yours to remitt in bills to you, and then proceed on a nother voyage to the N.Wt. unless I should find express orders from you to the contrary, from China I will send home the Journal and accounts of the Ruby, and also in case of Accident to me, mean to appoint Mr James Drummond, one of the Companys Supercargos at Canton my agent for your concern. He is a good Merchant and very much Esteemed, and your letter addressed to Him will come to my hands safely. -

You know my licence will Expire next September. You may be able to get it renew'd, tho'I can answer for it in India it will not be asked for -- The Nautilus being a Country built vessel is free to trade any were in India, but if you could get a free mariners Indenture for me, I perhaps could improve the voyage - If you have confidence in me, which I am determined to merit in the end, I must hope you will not damp my ardour and Zeal for this adventure by countermanding my intentions - with respect to the 2d voyage, I declare Sir! upon my Honour - that if I do not find that it will answer much to your interest, I will wind up the concern and return immediately so Europe - But think Sir! what a Sacrifice I should make, of my Experience information and opportunitys by returning now - I totally renounce the Navy, of course my mind is Zealously turned to Mercantile affairs and determined to attend to every circumstance that may conduce to serve you. -

The Nautilus is not inshured, you will act in this as you please. I think from hence to China it should not be more than a West India passage in Peace, and from China to the N.Wt. coast and back again, not more than 8pCt. there is no enemy to fear and the Navigation safe and well known - - Wishing you health
I am &c &c Chas Bishop

On 16th: Dec: Capt. Pavin finally settled with me, and I delivered up the Papers of the Ruby, and cancelled the bond of Respondentia. When the balance of the Rubys voyage remaining in my hands including the Purchase of the Nautilus was 10,255 dollars and 34/100 (vide Pages 49. 50.51) but by a mistake in making up the accounts then, we thought to be 9960 dollars - so written in Letter 12 - on the 27th Decr the vessel was completely watered and ready to sail on the morrow when it was found she had begun to leak very surprisingly and on setting the Pumps they where become immediately Choaked: so that we were

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obliged to keep bailing out the water with bucketts untill we could get the Pumps put to rights. Alarmed at the vessel thus suddenly becoming Leaky, we serched Earnestly to discover the cause, but in vain, it was found necessary to Start the water and Clear the Hold, when has they worked aft the leak was traced to proceed from a bolt hole in the wake of the 2nd Rudder brace the bolt of the brace not having passed through a timber had worked loose and fell out. the Sceiling was opened, a Timber put in and the Brace properly secured after which she made no more water, but being ballasted with Sand and Shingle, for fear of accident I thought proper to throw it overboard and ballast her with Stone. The vessel was all ready again to sail by 4th Jan.y 1797, when the Carpenter caulking the wedges of the mast discovere'd a nest of White Ants which had eaten near a third through in wake of the partners. a Survey being called it was found necessary to get the mast out and Cutt 3 feet off the heal to let its defecttive part below the deck. - a Careful Search was made every where but we could not discover any other trace of these destructive animals being in the ship - on the 6th the mast was got in again and on the 7th six large ships appearing off the Harbours Mouth who where supposed to be six French Frigates, the Mercht. vessels where ordered to slip their Cables and run up into the inner Harbour. the next day however the ships Came in and Proved to be the English East India men from Europe bound to China - having procured some Provisions and Stores out of them, and settled all my business at Amboyna we sailed 13th Jan.y. but in passing thro' the fleet the wind suddenly died away, and before we could apply to the boats we drove foul of one of the India-men and Carried away the Main Boom and a Top Gallant Mast.

The Ship Jane sailed in company with us untill 24th Jany. when being in the Latt: 0°:36' N she parted from us bound to Madrass. by whom I wrote the following letter to be forwarded to Europe.

[No. 14]
Nautilus at Latt 0° 36' N 130° 20' Et 24th Jan.y

To Sidenham Teast Esq.

Dr. Sir I embrace this opportunity of the ship Jane parting company bound to Madrass to inform you of my sailing from Amboyna the 13th Jan.y - and expect

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to arrive at Macao in three weeks - while we lay waiting the Change of Monsoon at Amboyna, I took the opportunity of over-hauling the Rigging Sails &c and Caulking the vessel, the condition & workmanship of which is certainly most excellent, the more I see of her either has a sea-boat, fast Sailer, or as a strong vessel, comfortably accomodated, the more I admire her - In my letter No. 13 dispatched by Admiral Rannier Squadrons 1st Dec.r I informed you of my purchasing this vessel and my reasons for so doing -

The Commandant of Amboyna, Major W McNeal desirous of forwarding my Expedition spared Me from the Companys Stores 40 Excellent Musketts and 12 Barrells Gunpowder. I have got some cutlery and shall get 1500 yards broad blue Cloth at China, which (tho' a little damaged, yet good as the best in the world, to tare up into short Pieces) was selling at the Company stores in China 25 pCt under prime Cost when we came away, beside which I hope to be able to gett the 200 Leather war dresses I brought down in the Ruby.

My Crew at present consists of 12 Seamen 2 Officers and one Leiu.t whose wages is full 25 pCt less than was given to the same Number out of England - - I have in bengal Cloth and bills and cash about 3500 Sp.Dollars, which I trust will be fully sufficient for the remainder of the Provisions Stores and investment for 2000 Sea Otter Skins -- a few days before we left Amboyna six sail of East India men arrived from England bound to China, these ships will depart again for Europe about Midsummer, and I shall leave with them my Journal accounts &c for you, which most probably will reach your hands soon as this - you may ashure yourself Sir! I will neglect no opportunity of writing to you of my proceedings.

Wishing you health I am Sir!
With Sincere Esteem & Respect
Sgd. Chas. Bishop

We had a very rough passage to the Bashee Islands and suffered a good deal in the articles of sails, beside which I had the unhappiness to loose the Chief Officer and a Seaman overboard who where both drown'd. in Passing the Bashee Islands, I stoped at Grafton Isl:d which is settled by the Spaniards to procure some stock with which they abound, thinking thereby to lessen the Expences at Macao not knowing it was war with Spain - The Spaniards behaved very civil at first and mutual presents where Exchanged, but soon has he found I would not leave the vessel and go on shore, They began firing Shott as fast as they could, from the fort. we where within about pistol Shots of it and was necessitated to Cutt the cable to prevent accident. As soon as

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we were under Sail we returned their Salute as long as our Shott would reach the Shore, and then bore up for Macao where we arrived on the 19th Feby. - On 23rd I paid off the Crew agreeable to Articles and began equipping the vessel by reshipping part of them again.
Following is the bill of Expences from Purchasing the vessel until her arrival at Macao.

Costs and Expences of the Nautilus Equipping at Amboyna for Macao 1796, etc

25 Nov. 1796 Amboyna

27 Gallons Coniac Brandy - 3 Drs - 81 Sp Drs
6 Dozn Madeira Wine - 6 Drs - 36 Sp Drs
9 Bags Rice - 3.60 - 32.40
1 Chest Bread - 6.20
3 Dozn Candles - 2.25
1 Table 10 Pains Glass - 2.50
Dec.
1 Short set coarse China ware - 17.75
Paid Caulker of the Resistance - 6.00
4 Boat loads ballast - 8.00
1 Bolt Canvass - 10.00
Paid for wood and water - 10.50
Boat hire at several times - 12.00
4 Cwt Salt Beef at 11 Drs per Cwt - 44.00
2 Cwt Do. at 12 1/2 Drs per Cwt - 25.00
Expense of People unmooring and mooring again - 8.00
Paid Sail Maker - 1.50
Paid Carpenter bills - 22.80
Master Foreman of Co. Slaves Bills - 129.35
2 Cheese, 6 Jars butter, 3 Do. Sweet Oil - 37.00
5 Bottles Mustard, 6 Dozn Bottles beer - 38.50
100 Gunny bags, 1 Bag Rice, 2 Dozn Spoons - 17.00
Expence of fishing & Getting in and out Mainmast - 20.00
5 Cwt Junk - 15.00
40 Fowls at 1 Rupee each - 18.75
30 days Markett Expences, fish, Greens, etc - 14.16
1 bag soft Sugar - 6.00
1 Coil 2 1/2 Inch rope, 4 Loglines, 3 glasses - 15.00
Expence of People refitting rigging & Cooper - 4.50
a Large Iron Pye Pan - 2.75
Passd up - Sp Drs - 643.91

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Costs and Expences of the Nautilus, From Amboyna to Macao, 1797

Brought forwd - Sp Drs - 643.91
Dec:1796
1 Bag Rice, 15 lbs Tea, 2 Quart Potts - 11.00
1 Jar Pickells, 1 Bottle Soy - 3.00
Jany 9th.
Expence of removing up to Inner Harbour - 5.00
2 Tierces Salt Beef and Pork at 60 Do. - 120.00
12 Tumblers 1 Lanthorn - 8.50
Expence of Hiring a Crew - 14.50
Feby Banshee Islds
Ton of yams, 3 Hogs, 15 Sheep, 2 Doz. Fowls, 3 Cwt. Sweet Potatoes and 4 Goats 53.00
To wages of Mr David Christie, Chief Mate 23d Nov. 96 to Feby 97 at 20 Drs per/mo - 2 Mo 13 days - 48.50
To Do. Mr Martin 2nd Officer - 20 Drs - 1 Mo 7 days - 24.67
To Do. To Do. George Fowls Able Seaman - 1 Mo 8 days at 12 Drs - 15.20
To Do. Saml Reed Boatswain 16 Drs - 1 Mo 27 days - 30.25
To Do. Wm.Clare Seaman - 12 Drs - 1 Mo 8 days - 15.20
To Do. William Sparks Seaman - 12 Drs - 1 Mo 24 days - 21.60
To Do. Earnt Conroy Gunner - 13 Drs - 1 Mo 8 days - 16.45
To Do. John Bartlett Seaman - 12 Drs - 1 Mo 8 days - 15.20
To Do. Geo.McClay Carpenter - 20 Drs - 1 Mo 24 days - 36.00
To Do. Jacob Rainhold Seaman -10 Drs - 2 Mo 28 days - 29.33
To Do. Robt Hinch Seaman - 10 Drs - 1 Mo 8 days - 12.67
To Do. John Block Cook - 8 Drs - 1 Mo 8 days - 10.13
To Do. John Baptiste Stewd - 10 Drs - 1 Mo 15 days - 15.00
To Do. John Ballon - Landsman - 6 Drs - 1 Mo 15 days - 9.00
To Do. Oneehehow Servt.- 4 Drs - 2 Mo 28 days - 11.75
To Do. Wm Dixon Seaman - 12 Drs -0 Mo 23 days - 9.20
To my wages from 23d Nov 96 to 21st Feb 1797 at 24 Drs - 70.40
To Pilotage thro' the Lema Isles to Macoa - 30.00

Total Cost & - 1279.46
10255.34
Including the Nautilus there Remd - 8975.88
Macao 21:st Feby 1797 - E.rs Excep:d - Chas: Bishop

Muskett Powder, and other articles bought at Amboyna will be found in the Invoice of the Investment for the NW coast - on our arrival at Macao, the English Supercargos being at Canton I dispatched the following letter to Select Committee -

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To Richd Hall Esquire, Chief and the Select committee of Supercargoes for the Hon'ble English East India Companys Affairs in China.

I feel not a little anxious Sir! and Gentlemen! that my Conduct should have been such as to leave me in doubt, of your countanence and protection. I am also sorry for the unlooked for occasion that let me to it, but with your permission, and if it may not be deemed too great an intrusion on your time, I will relate the circumstances of the unpleasant situation in which I had involved myself and my owners property has they occurred.

On my first arrival at Canton in a Ship whose leaky state had caused the failure of an adventure begun with every prospect of success, a perfect stranger to the Chinese manners and trade and briefly instructed as to my conduct towards you. - I waited on Mr Browne, and took the liberty at the same time to ask him to recommend me to a gentleman whom I could consign the Sale of the cargo of Furs to - Mr Browne declined naming any person in particular but said there were several in Canton, who accepted consignments - I had brought some letters from a vessel at the Sandwich Islands for a Mr Howel, and calling on him to deliver them them I found his address very agreeable, and in course of conversation, discovered he did business has a broker - to him then I rather haistily, made an overture of the Sale of the Ruby cargo, which he accepted, I declare I did not know of his conexions with the Americans, but thought him an English Gentleman residing under the Licence and protection of the Hon'ble Company. and it gave me some anxiety when I found he was not so - but it was then I thought too late to recede

Mr Howel in the course of six of seven days required to sell the Cargo to Sunqua for 16000 dollars, Eight Thousand of which was to be paid in Cash the other in Transfer, and he was to deposit 1600 dollars surety - I thought the bargain a good one, and went cheerfully to work repairing the Ship, in hopes to be ready to sail for the North West Coast again by 1st June - The skins were to have been delivered and the sale compleat in 7 days, or the deposit forfieted - about 20 days afterwards I recieved advice, that Sunqua had not been able to secure the Ship, and consequently had forfieted his bargain - I was much disapointed at this buisness, as the Ship ought to have been ready to Sail, to go with any prospect of success, The Season being so far advanced, and moreover the Hon'ble Companys fleet about to Sail, I feared I should not be able to make a remittance. -

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The Chinese Merchants seemed now to set their [indecipherable] against purchasing the Cargo, and none offered more than 10,000 dollars, whose security was deemed good, and the End was they would not Sell at all untill the fleet sailed, when they were disposed of for 13000 dollars including the Duties, which Ponqua took on himself both for the Ship and Cargo for 5000. My agent recieved the money, in whose house I also lived when at Canton, and as I had drawn for considerable sums to refitt the vessel, and again in paying the wages of the Crew, I had no objection to let it remain in his Hands, untill we should come to a final settlement previous to my leaving Canton to join Admiral Ranniers Squadron at Amboyna, the vessel I disposed of to W. Robt. Pavin, has permitted by the select committee, for 1300£ including her European goods land Furs and Leather war dresses - - Leiut. Dobbie being about to depart I urged Mr Howel to come to a settlement, which was protracted day after day, and at last I found he had disposed of my Cash and could not raise, has he then said, dollars to pay me, but could easily get Transfer on the Hon'able Company books, sufficient to settle with me - finding myself in this unpleasant situation, I saw no other method, and having received an ashurence from Mr Browne, that Transfer would be recieved the same as Cash - I wrote to you Gentlemem, respecting it, and receiving your answer, granting my requests, the day following the transfer was to have been made over at Mr Drummonds, but that, and four or five following days were protracted to some excuse or other, and at length I was told he could not raise either Transfer or Cash at Canton, but that if it could be settled my accompanying him to Macao in the Ruby He had no doubt of raising Cash from his friends there - and on my observing how silly and absurd he had made my conduct appear to you Gentlemen, the reply was, that whereas had he settled with me at Canton, it would have been in Transfer, but by going to Macao I should be able to pay into your treasury Hard Dollars which,(he said) there was no doubt but would be acceptable in preference -

I had ill health and much anxiety about this time and did not Exert my mind in the manner I ought to have done, but supposed myselff to be thus led, contrary to my own wishes - we went to Macao, and on the 3d: or 4th. day Mr Howel informed he had got the promise of the Cash to be brought up at one o'clock. it made me cheerful and happy for a few hours only, for at 2 o'clock I received a note, inclosing a letter from a person whose name I forget, informing Mr Howel, that some circumstances having arisen, since he had promised him the Cash, He was under the necessity of declining to advance it - I now found the buisness reduced to only resource - the Ruby had taken in a large Cargo of China goods for

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Amboyna, and which in part belonged to Mr Howel, who together with Mr Pavin offered me a bond of respondentia, on Ship and Cargo allowing a 2pCt. per Mo. Interest, 10 pCt. for inshurance, and agreed to allow me 200 dollars per month untill the bond was wholly taken up, and which was to be paid out of the first proceeds of her Sales at Amboyna on 2d Sept. We sailed in Company with the Amboyna & Store Ship and arrived safly at Amboyna in six weeks, where we found Admiral Rannier preparing his Squadron to proceed to the Coast of India. I certainly had a very favourable opportunity, of getting that promotion, for which I served near 12 years of the first of my maritime life, with unsullied conduct in the Navy - but the Sales of the Ruby's cargo went on so slowly, that the bond was not half cleared before the admiral departed, ans has I had no person I could confide the settling my accounts to I was necesitated to forgo the Admirals invitation to join the Suffolk, and remain behind at Amboyna.

A Few days before we arrived there in the Ruby, the beautiful little vessel I now command came in from Madrass, laden with refreshments & her commander was impowered to sell her if he choose, and after Examining her very particularly, I found her a vessel well suited for the Fur trade to the NW coast of America, and bought her on account of my owner Mr Sidenham Teast for the purpose of another voyage to that Coast, to redeem the failure of the Ruby, and after fitting her in the best manner I could we sailed 13th Jan.y and proceeded direct to this place where we arrived 17th Feb.y - a few days previous to our leaving Amboyna. The Hon'ble Companys fleet under the direction of Commodore Drummond arrived there from Europe - of which some letters Mr. Beale has been so good to forward for me will more particularly inform you of.

And now Sir! and Gentlemen, being perfectly clear of any commercial conexion with any person but Mr Teast, I must hope you will favour my Exertions for his interest and my character by suffering me to refitt the vessel, and compleat the investment for the N West coast, by granting me permission to return to China with the furs I may collect, and it shall be my studdy to attend to any particular instructions, I may recieve from you -

I beg pardon for having trespassed so
long on your time, and which my circumstance only can Excuse
I am Sir and Gentleman with great
deference and Respect yr most ob: Hum:
Servt. Chas Bishop

Nautilus Macao
20th Feb.y 1797

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This Letter was inclosed in this Short one to Mr Hall the Chief Supercargo.

I have the Honour Sir, to inclose to you a letter to yourself as Chief of the Hon'ble companys Supercargos in Canton and the Gentlemen of the Select Committee, and at the same time beg leave to solicit your good offices for me, ashuring you Sir that my conduct shall evince my gratitude for any attention you may shew me

I have the Hon.r to be & & &
Chas Bishop
Nautilus Macoa 20th Feby 1797

On 26th: Feb.y I recieved the following letter from Mr Hall which I immediately answered.

Sir, I have recieved your letter and inclosure of the 20th Instant, and shall submit your buisness to the decission of the committee as soon as I have considered a little more of the Subject. in the meantime I request you will send me an Attested Copy of the Nautilus' Register, also the date of your Original Licence from the company to perform a voyage within their Limits in the Ruby, and the time that licence was to remain in force<

I am Sir Signed Richd Hall

Canton 24th Feby 1797

to Capt Charles Bishop

Nautilus 26 Feby 1797
Sir, I have this moment recieved the favour of your letter, and have the honour to inclose to you, an Attested copy of the Certificate of the Nautilus' Registry - the Date of the Hon'ble Companys Licence, for me to trade under certain restrictions, within their Limits, is from the 17th day of September 1794, until 17th September 1797, including three whole years.

The Period before I could possibly return here from the coast of America must Exceed the time limited, and consequently it is not only my wish, but I am necessitated to submit to yours and the other Gentlemen of the Select committee's decision, which I must hope will favour my Exertions to redeem my credit, and my owners Interest into the adventure.

I have the Honour to be Sir
Charles Bishop

I shall Esteem it a favour and be much obliged to you for your instructions as Early as convenient, it will stimilate my Efforts to be ready to sail if possible by Ist: April

To Richd Hall Esq
on 4th March I received the following Letter

[Page 15]
Canton, 2d March 1797

To Capt. Charles Bishop
commander of the Brig Nautilus

Sir, Having duly considered the circumstances set fourth in your letter to the committee of date 20th ultimou. and inclosure and subsequent letter and inclosure to Mr Hall of date 26th Same Month, we have adopted the Resolution, of permitting you conformably to your request, to proceed on a voyage in the Nautilus brig to the Northwest coast of America, and to return to this port with the furs you may collect-

We must explicitly declare however that in other respects this Indulgence does not extend to the Abrogation of any restrictions or conditions contained in the original contract with the Hon'ble Company entered into by yourself and Constituents bearing date 17th Sept. 1794 and which Contract therefore retains as full force, untill the period of your return, as if you continued to Navigate the Ruby.

We are Sir, Your Humble Servt!
Signd - Richd Hall
G Coming
Sam Peach

To which I replyed,
to Richd Hall Esq. Chief &c &c &c

Sir and Gentlemen,
I had the Honr. this morning to recieve your letter of 2d instant, permitting me to proceed in my intended voyage to the NW. Coast of America, and to return here with the Furs I may collect together with your declaration, that the indulgence you have granted me is not to be considered to Extend to the Abrogation of any restrictions or conditions contained in the original contract with the Hon'able Comp.

I beg leave to offer you my sincere thanks for the attention you have shewn my requests, and to ashure you Sir aad Gentlemen that I am highly sensible to your favours, and that my conduct shall be so circumspect as not in any respect to infringe on your indulgence, or the Hon'ble Company's Liccence.

I have the Honr. to be with Gt Respect
&c &c &c Chas Bishop,
Macao 4th March 1797

[Page 16]
Upon our Arrival at Macao, I found the Dragon Cutter of Bengal fitting for the N. West. - Capt. Lay her commander had a short time previous, bought the Leather war dresses I brought down in the Ruby, and Cloth I found had become scarce and dear at Canton, so that it appeared pretty clearly, I should not be able to equipp the vessel with a proper investment, with my present funds, which where daily becoming more Slender - Stores of every discription where also particularly scarce and dear, and the necessary alterations and amendments in the vessel would require a large proportion of the money yet remaining in my Hands, but on which hand to turn for assistance I did not know, and secretly wished I had not purchased the Nautilus and began the voyage -
However having gone so far, I concieved it would be exceedingly weak and wrong in me to recede without trying every effort. James Drummond Esq. one of the English Supercargos, a man of very Extensive Knoledge and ability, universally respected and beloved, by all discriptions, by the Portugeese, the Chinese and the Europeans of different nations visiting & residing in China, had shewn me some civilities when before at Canton. influenced by admiration of his character and Gentlemen like manners, to him then! I wrote the following letter, which led on to a correspondence, wherein will be seen on his part, a series of unmerited favours and Exertions to forward my plans, and Alas! on my part nothing but barren, yet sincere and grateful acknowledgements.

Macao, 13 March 1797

To James Drummond Esq.

I must frankly own Sir! that the delicacy of my situation is such, that I have been some time considering wither I ought or could with propriety address you on the following subject, being so little known to you, as to disposition, ability and circumstances, but the necessity of the application, will I hope plead its Excuse, and should you after perusing a fair Statement of the latter, adopt either of my proposals you shall most certainly find that you have not misplaced your confidence, as to my disposition, and I should hope after seventeen years active maritime life, you will not be disapointed as to my ability as a Seaman -

I beg leave then to imform you Sir, that returning to Bristol after conducting a Sucessful Ivory voyage in the Coast of Africa, Mr Teast my owner, refitted the Ruby, and gave me charge of

[Page 17]
an Expedition to the North west coast of America, instructed to make a double voyage in her to China, that is, to return to the Coast of America, after I should dispose of the Skins, collected the first season at China, provided I should get 700 Prime Skins estimated in England at 30 Dollars p. Skin, but failing to procure that number at the least, I was to continue the winter on the coast, and make but one voyage of it, and finally concluded his instructions with a particular desire that I would at all times, keeping within the Limits prescribed by the Hon'ble East India Companys Licence, act in the same manner, as I would, where the property he invested me with, intirely my own - we did indeed collect more than a thousand Skins the first season, but I heard on the coast that they could not be estimated at more than 15 or 16 Drs. per Skin in the room of 30 - and having near half the European goods left, I resolved to winter on the coast to the Southd. as far as 46° North Latitude where there are articles to be purchased which sells for Skins to the Northd: at a very great advance, we collected enough of these to improve the Investment 800 Skins, and sailed for the Sandwich Islands to procure provisions, intending to return immediately to the Coast, and Expected to have been on by 15th April, and I have not a doubt in saying that by the End of July we should have made a Cargo of 2500 Prime Skins, with hearts elated at the fair prospect of a successful voyage we putt to sea from Colombia River 23d Jan.y 1796, but our views soon became clouded by the Ruby turning out so leaky, that by the time we made the Sandwich Islands, it was Judged absolutely necessary to bear up immediately to China, and secure the Ship and Cargo. Indeed so bad was her condition, that we made upwards of 2 feet water per hour by the time we arrived at Macao.

The unpleasant situation in which I involved myself and my owners property, at Canton, by consigning the Sale of the Cargo, too haistily to a person, whom I then thought an English Gentleman is not I presume a Subject you are unacquainted with, and it may be only necessary for me here, to inform you, that being unable to Settle with me after all his promises, I was necessitated to accept a bond of Respondentia, on the Ruby and Cargo, which was freighted with China Goods for Amboyna, payable out of the Ist: Proceeds of her voyage, and bearing Interest 2pCt.p.Mo. and 200 dollars p.Mo. for my detention untill the bond should be wholly taken up - You may remember Sir! I expressed my intention, of remitting home the whole of my owners property, and rejoin the Navy, having served near 12 years of the first of my maritime life in it, with unsullied Character, has a Midshipman and Masters Mate, and Certainly

[Page 18]
felt myself intitled to promotion whenever I could meet a friend to procure it for me - but in this I was disapointed - The Rubys Cargo sold so slow, that there was not a sufficient sum raised to Clear half the bond, before the Admiral departed from Amboyna and with him, my hopes of Promotion fell. Finding this would be the case, a short time before the fleet sailed, I purchased the beautiful little vessel I now command, named the Nautilus, built by Col'. Kidd at Calcutta, and of a very curious construction. She is 57 feet long 22 feet broad, and 12 feet deep in the Hold and will carry about 80 tons, tho' registered 65 only. the Excellency of the workmanship and materials of which she is formed, and her construction and accomodation render her in every respect a vessel well suited to the fur Trade on the N.W.Coast, where a heavy cargo is not required to be carried, for this purpose I bought her for 4000 Star Pagodas, and with the hope that I should reach this place in time to repurchase the Rubys remaining Investment and Leather war dresses, and in this case concluded that my funds, would have been sufficient, for the outfitt - but several Expensive circumstances occurring at Amboyna, together with a very rough passage here wherein our Sails and rigging suffered so much, that much of them must be replaced with new, the Loss of an Anchor and Cable, and finding that Capt. Lay has bought the Leather war dresses &c I brought here in the Ruby, that I find to compleat an investment for 2000 Sea Otter Skins in one season, and to put the vessel in a respectable State, as to her sails, Rigging, provisions and Stores, I shall have occasion for four thousand Dollars additional funds to do it.

And now Sir, Having thus premised the buisness of my application to you, by a faithful account of the Events which led to my present circumstances, I beg leave to sollicet your assistance, and offer on my part as Consignee and agent for Mr Teast to assign the vessel and cargo to you, either as part owner in the Expidition or on Respondentia, and have only to add that you will very much oblige me, by adopting either, leaving the Terms to yourself, the necessity there is of my having most of the articles I am in want of, from Canton or Whampu' gives me occasion for a very small proportion of Cash - I have also Bills for 1500 dollars, drawn by Mr Jones the commercial, resident at Amboyna, on Mr Hall and the Select Committee, payable at a Short Sight, one of which I inclose, and you will oblige me by having it presented, - Blue Cloth and Stores is principally what I am in want of -- But if Sir! you please to accept my proposals, I will write you what I have now on board and Particularly what I am in want of, with the Number of Skins expected to be procured by the sale of each article - the Experience and Knoledge I have of the coast and trade together with the Excellent vessel I command, gives me I believe a Just Idea, that the Expidition will eventually prove Successful, if by your means I can be ready by the 15th April, - - - I must beg leave to

[Page 19]
add Sir! That if you should decline yourself in taking any part with me, you may have it much in your Power to recommend the Subject to any other Gentleman - so little known as I am in Canton, I must hope you will Excuse the Liberty I have taken and intrusion I have made on your time, Being Sir with Gt. Respect &c &c &c Chas.Bishop

The following Reply was recieved 25th March.

Capt Chas Bishop

Sir, I am favoured with your letter of 14th. and have delayed replying thereto for some days, with the Expectation of informing you of the acceptance of your bill on the committee in which at first there was some demurr, but I have now the pleasure to acquaint you that it will be paid when due -

I much regret your being so disagreeably situated in respect to want of Funds, and equally sorry, that my situation in the Companys Service, renders the giving the assistance you require, - to be concerned in Ships or Commerce of any kind is in direct violation of the companys orders, and with regard to lending you money on Respondentia it is totally out of the question, as it is nearly the Same thing - I shall most willingly, however, give you every aid in my power, and having at all times heard you favourably spoken of I will endeavour, provided you send me a list of the articles you require, to procure them for you on Credit from the Chinese.

If you are desirous, of purchasing stores from the India men, it will be requisite for you to indorse the bill on the Committee, that I may recieve the money for you, in doing which or in any purchases for your account, I shall not think of charging you any Coms,- fully Gratified if I can be of service to you - I shall expect your immediate answer, and am Sir

Yr Ob. Servt. Signed Jas Drummond
Canton 22nd March 1797

On 24th March not having recieved then the above letter I had feared the letter 13th had miscarried and therefore wrote the following previous to my recieving Mr Ds Letter.

to Jas. Drummond Esq.

Sir, I had the Honour to address you a letter on the 13th. instant respecting the outfitt of my intended voyage to the Northwest coast of America in the Nautilus, inclosing in it one of a sett of Bills for 1500 dollars

[Page 20]
Drawn by Mr Jones, the commercial Resident at Amboyna, on Mr Hall and the Select Committee, payable to me on Order at 15 days sight, and which I requested you would do me the favour to have presented for acceptation. I am fearful this letter may not have come to your hands, and therefore inclose you a Copy, and in perusing it I must hope you will do it Sir! with much Candour, for Sanguine in my Ideas, of bringing up what the Sailors call Leeway and of returning home with credit to myself and emolument to my owner, I did not bring into account of my purchasing the Nautilus, the disapointments and obstacles I should meet in fitting from Macao, or most ashuredly I should have declined it, but having now proceeded so far, it would be weekness in me to recede. Indeed! I cannot but by a very serious loss of Property.

I am therefore putting the vessel in a respectable State as to defence, and have had a new bulwark built up all round her with an high rail, as she was before open on deck with a low one, this and several other alterations, absolutely necessary has been done, adding strength and respectability to the vessel, armed with Six Brass 3 Pounders and 4 Swivals & 50 Stands of Arms, beside Cutlasses and Pistols, these with a good Crew of 22 in No. will render her too formidable, allowing us to be on our guard, for any tribe of Indians on the Coast of America, and the more especially as great part of the Crew are old voyagers to that Coast, and know the consequence of admiting too great a familarity with the Natives - The vessel so far has respects her Hull and rigging will be ready, I hope, early in the ensuing Month and if you Sir! will do me the favr. to accept my proposals, I have not a doubt of making a great voyage, as I should then be able to get away in the Space of 3 or 4 weeks - but I have another motive Sir! for wishing you to accept my Assignment, namly the Pleasure Mr Teast would feel on recieving my letters, in his property being so far Secured - I write not this from concious defect in principle in my self, for there my mind ashures me all is well, but having made an hasty consignment before, without inquiring to whom, and thereby involving myself in much danger, and difficulty, together with the possibility of accident befalling me, he may naturally feel anxious on that subject.

I beg leave to add Sir! that should you adopt my plan, and wish to send a person in the vessel on your account, that he will be recieved by me, with pleasure, not only on that account, but as a Companion and assistant in the voyage, and if it should be Capt. Simpson it would greatly heighten the pleasure I should recieve therefrom. I inclose herewith an account of what Stores I want for the Ship, and what articles are farther necessary to Compleat the investment for 2000 Skins, together with an account of that part I have already on board, and the Number of Skins Expected to be procured by them - also the 2d of the Sett of Bills, trusting Sir! you will pardon the intrusion I make, when I inform you I do not know to whom else I could apply on that Subject. I shall esteem myself obliged by an answer early as convenient that I may regulate my conduct thereby -
I am &c Chas Bishop

P.S. If an anticipation of my bills, you could provide me with 500 Dollars at Macao it will be gratefully acknowledged - I have 7 or 8 blocks of curious furniture wood. if they are worth your consideration, they are at your service.

[Page 21]
From Mr Drummond in Reply

Sir! I am favored with your Letter of the 25th: enclosing Duplicate of your former together with the list of goods required to fitt out your vessel for the N.W. coast. - I have already informed you that my Situation in the companys Service, will not admit my being in any manner concerned, in commerce, nor do I know any person at Canton, likly to enter upon a speculation, which has hitherto been universally unsuccessful

It will nevertheless aford me pleasure if I can render you any Service, and I shall immediatly sett about endeavouring to procure what your list specifies is positively required. In doing which, however, I expect to be unequivocally informed of your Situation and connection with Mr Teast, and wither you are authorised to draw on him for any sum you may require, the Stores may probably be procured for bills on him, provided you are positively certain they will be discharged.

I think I have heard it rumoured that this Gentleman is dead, if so you cannot shurly expect his Successor to enter into a new Speculation, when nearly the whole of the former one has been lost - You will I trust excuse this freedom but it is necessary I should be informed on these points, If I step forward to be of Service to you and to obtain you credit.

Your bill on the committee is not yet paid whenever it is I shall try and send you 500 Drs. to Macao. - Probably by an Application on your part to Capt Simpson. he may have no Objection to be concerned with you. It is worth the trial and his Knowledge of the Coast, added to his presence at Canton may greatly facilitate your outfitt - The Blue cloth I think may be easily procured on Credit - but of this I shall inform you in a few days.

I remain Sir & &c &c Jas. Drummond
Canton 28 March 1797

To Capt. Chas Bishop. Brig Nautilus

The following letter was written in reply to Mr Dr: of the 22nd instant.

[Page 22]
To Jas Drummond Esq. Canton

Sir! It was not till late yesterday Evening, I was favoured with yours of the 22d., and I ashure you Sir! I feel very much obliged by the attention and kindness you have shewn to my intruding epistle, altho' I declare I did not know untill now, it was contrary to the Hon'ble Companys orders, for the Gentlemen transacting their buisness to Engage in any private commercial concern, and acting under this Idea I trust you will forgive the liberty I took in proposing it.

The Bill you have done me the favour to get accepted, was recieved from Mr Jones, for various coins, not dollars, current in Amboyna, and has Mr Jones aledged, he had no orders to draw on the committee, yet has it amounted to so small a sum he sopposed, he sopposed they would have not much objection in honouring his bill - I had Indeed supposed from my not hearing from you before, that my letter of the 14th had miscarried and was lost, and on the 25th I wrote you another, which doubtless you have by this time recieved, in it you will find a list inclosed of the various articles of Ships Stores and investment, I am in want of and which are highly necessary for me, but I cannot pay for them immediatly, and consequently the offer you have kindly made to procure me credit, is very acceptable, and demands my warmest acknowledgement - and trust me Sir that for all you avouch for me on this Subject, I shall feel myself bound both by principle and Gratitude to perform.

I have heard of a Mr Perrone, who owns part of a Cargo of Seal Skins brought from the Island St Paul in the American Ship Otter Capt Dorr. He is said to be disengaged and desirous of Entering on a Speculative voyage - if you have an opportunity of seeing him and think it Eligible, shall I trouble you to propose to him to taking part in my Expedition - in the course of 10 or 12 days the vessel will be in a very forward State as to her equipment in Rigging and Carpenters work, and if you think it necessary, I could be enabled to come up to Whampu' in McEvoys boat, when any stores &c you may have done me the favr. to secure could be sent down in her

I inclose you herewith the 3d of the sett of bills indorsed but alas Sir! it is like 1500 Corns to feed a Troop of Horses I have so many wants, that where it not for the Encourage- ment given me in your kind letter, I should dispair of accom- plishing what I have so much set my heart on - you will oblige me Sir! by putting me in the way to recieve 500 Dollars of it, for my present necessities

[Page 23]
and the other part I consign to pay for 8 or 10 Tierces beef, 2 Furkins Butter. a 7.7 1/2 or 8 Inch Cablet 20 Sheets Sheathing Copper, 20 Ibs Copper nails, and 10 or 12 bolts Canvass, No. 3.4.5, and 3 Cwt Cordage 1.2.2 1/2 & 3 Inch. - Mr. Hammond purser of the Qn: Charlotte, told me I could have beef from him, the Canvass Copper and nails are immediatly necessary for Equipping the vessel.

I really am afraid I have by troubling you so much imposed on your good disposition towards me, and feel some anxiety, that my local situation, holds out no prospect at present to make any return for the Generosity you shew me - accept the good will and alow me to Subscribe myself with Gt: Sincerity

Sir Yr much Obliged
& Obet. Servt. Chas Bishop

Nautilus 28 March 1797

Answer to Mr Drummonds Letter 28th March

Sir, I was favoured with yours of 28th last Evening, and in answer thereto, I beg leave to inform you, that I have no Athority to draw bills on Mr Teast, altho' I think he would duly honour them, yet on this doubtful consideration, I would rather adopt any other mode of obtaining the Credit necessary and Should prefer that by way of respondentia, having no Objection to allow, a fair premium for inshurance on the gross sum as well as Interest pr Month.

With respect to my situation with my owner Mr. Teast, I have to inform you that he Equipped the Ruby with every thing thought to be necessary for an Expidition to the NW. coast and China, and placed her under my directions - Instructed as I have before related, to act always keeping within the limits prescribed by the Hon'ble Companys licence, in the same manner I would where the property he invested me with my own - but as it was impossible to forsee in England that the Ruby would fail in the middle of her voyage, there was no necessary instructions given in that case, How I was to act, Either as to purchasing a nother vessel or returning home a passenger, and as I have hitherto consulted in the best manner I am able, the good of my Employer, I consider that I have done and am still doing my duty towards him altho' I confess Sir! Had I forseen the difficulties I now feel in proceeding on in this Expidition, I should most ashuredly have a dopted the Alternative I held, of remitting home the whole

[Page 24]
of his property at Amboyna and, returning to Europe myself, but having proceeded in it so far, I cannot recede without a great loss of Property, and which would sweep of with it, the Small hard earned Sum which composes my share - I must therefore hope Sir! as my intentions are, and my Actions, hitherto have been directed by a mind disposed to fair and honourable persuits, that you will assist me with your influence with the merchants at Canton, and I ashure you Sir! it shall be my particular regard and Studdy, to act in such manner, that you shall in nowise regret having shewn me attention and assistance, at least so far has depends on my conduct.

It was indeed! rumoured at Canton when I was there that Mr Sidenham Teast was dead, but it arose from the Father Sidenham Teast, who died some time in 1790, and whose name I saw in an old news paper for that year.

I thank you most sincerely for the Trouble you have taken with my bill - I wrote to Capt Simpson 27th and have not yet been favoured with his answer - Consequa the Chinese Merchant, when I was at Canton before, offered, if I would not go into the Navy, but get a vessel to go to the N.W. Coast to assist me with Cloth &c but I have since heard he has been much troubled by the Mandarins, and is in the City. - I have mentioned this circumstance merely for your information - I conclude with sincere thanks for your kindness. And am Sir &c &c &c Chas. Bishop

Nautilus Macao 31 March 1797

Letter. To Jas. Drummond 7th April 1797:

Sir! I am favoured with an immediate opportunity of writing to inform you that I have taken the Liberty of giving two drafts on you one to Capt Lenox for 219 dollars, and the other to Mr Thos Musgrave, Chief Officer of the Boddham for one hundred and seventy six - Capt Lenox has been so good to take on board his Ship 8 Blocks of curious furniture wood brought from the Moluccas Island, aluded to in a former letter, and which I must beg the favour you will accept.

I have procured the Canvass out of the Indiamen in the roads, also some arrack - I propose including in my voyage to the N. West to go dureing the winter into the South Pacific to Masafuera where from good athority I find 20,000 Seal Skins may be procured in about 10 weeks. - I have had the misfortune to bruise my fingers, and cannot write for this day or two, but in great pain - I shall thank you to Excuse me writing more fully 'till I am better.
I am &c Chas Bishop

[Page 25]
To Capt Bishop

Sir! I have been favoured with your letter of the 31st. since which time I have seen Consequa, who readily consents to become interested in your concern - I have no time at present to write you the particulars but shall have leisure so to do by Capt. Simpson, who will proceed to Macao shortly in the City of Goa.

In consequence of this arrangement I shall proceed to purchase the Goods you require and send them if possible by the City of Goa - if you will apply to Mr Manoel De Souza, 1 believe he can furnish you with 500 Dollars.

I am Sir &c &:c Signed Jas Drummond
Canton 5th Apl. 1797

Letter to James Drummond Esq. 10 Apl. 1797

Sir, Agreeable to your letter of the 5th. I have this day recieved 500 Dollars from Mr De Souza. in your appointment of this buisness you have done me a great favour, as I am enabled thereby to get rid of those Harpies at Macao, to whom I owe Small Sums. Your letter also conveyed to me the happy tydings, of the arrangement you are so good to make for me with my friend Conseequa, and the bringing down the goods and stores for me in the City of Goa. - in consequence of which we have gone on with fresh Spirits in getting the vessel ready for Sea which is nearly compleat.

Since my letter 28 March some Chinamen have got me a Pickell of what they call Copper, (a composition of mettle) which will answer to mend our Copper Sheathing, and has it is cheap I have adopted it knowing how scarce Europe Copper is, but should you before recieving this have bought any for me, it is good trade on the Southern parts of the Coast, in Exchange for Leather war dresses, and will as such be very acceptable

I wrote you also 7th if thought Eligible, to proceed from Coast of America Early as possible in the Autumn to Masafuera in Latt 34° South for Seal Skins - I am induced to propose this arrangement from the following Motive, 1st: allowing we sail 1st May from hence, we shall in so Prime a Sailor as the Nautilus be most probably not more than 2 months in our passage to the Coast, we have then, July and two following Months, to be on the coast, a Period with the Knowledge I have of it long enough to get 2000 Sea Otter Skins, if invested with proper articles of trade - leaving the coast of America the Latter end

[Page 26]
of September, we shall arrive at the Sandwich Islands it may be Expected by 20th October - here I take on board Eight Islanders and 2 Cannoes and if I should be so fortunate to fall in with Capt Lay, or a vessel of my owners bound to Canton. I would freight the Otter Skins down to You, thereby securing that part of the voyage - of Course taking great care in a step of this kind, to prevent fraud in the person I intrusted them with and this is one reason I wish Capt Simpson to go with me for he could proceed here with the Cargo - Leaving the Sandwich Islands the End of October, it is a fair passage to arrive at Masafuera 10th December where I land at last 12 picked Men, who begin to kill and dry skins - I am well ashured after the first fortnight of taking off 600 dry Skins every day, which in collecting 20,000 the quantity I estimate the vessel to Carry will detain us no longer than two months, and leaving Masafuera 15 Feb.y may expect to arrive at Macao 15th April making a voyage altogether within the year. I am well informed as to the buisness and have several of the crew who have been sealing there - there is also this advantage attending it, that the wages of the crew will be reduced to one half, from the time of leaving the Sandwich Islands, and a Com:sn or Share of 1 pCt allowed to each man has a Stimilus to work hard. - The Expence attending the voyage is so little, compared to an outfitt on purpose, and the advantage held out by the high price of Skins here that perhaps I am not too Sanguine in thinking you will accord with me in it - The Sandwich Islanders will serve to man to Cannoes to bring the Skins in small parcels through the Surf to the boat outside, which, man'd by 4 others, ply to the Ship with them

I have thus! Sir shewn you the additional plan of my voyage, and shall Thank you for your opinion on it when most convenient, and if has I do! you think it good and will tend to my owners advantage - with an active and perservering disposition of mind, I shall proceed accordingly, and propose to Capt Simpson the part he is wished to take in the buisness.

I am &c &c Chas Bishop

to Capt Chas Bishop, Canton, 14th Apl. 1797

Sir! I have been favoured with two letters from you, and shall use my endeavours to get the things down in the City of Goa - I am apprehensive however, that I shall not be successful, in obtaining permission for the China goods, but of this you will be informed by Captain Simpson, of the City of Goa, which Ship will, I think, leave Whampu' in 7 or 8 days, when I shall again write you, and remain D Sir! Yr Ob. Servt. Signed Jas Drummond
Canton 14th Apl. 1797

[Page 27]
To Jas. Drummond Esq. Canton

Sir! I am this day favoured with your Letter of the 14th and am still sanguine in thinking, as you have not mentioned any thing of the subject, that on consideration, you will accord with me in the plan I wrote you, of going on our return voyage from the Sandwich Islands to Masafuera for 20000 Seal Skins - I ask your opinion as a Person capable of judging the Elegi- bility of the Plan. - I have Indeed written to Capt. Simpson, on the Subject, proposing the part he is wished to take in the buisness, but have yet no answers, as well as to a letter written him 25th: March, inclosing a list of some articles of Stores, I thought he might be able to Collect for me, not knowing then the City of Goa was to come down here. I am fearful he has never recieved these letters, for I know him to be punctual in his correspond'ce and therefore beg leave to trouble you to have the inclosed letter delivered to him - When from Capt. Simpsons assenting to it you may be the better able to form an opinion as to the propriety of the deviation in the route of the voyage. - so far as it respects my crews or my own Exertion, and perseverance I am pretty certain of success, and the accounts I have, both from Carteret's voyage, and the Chief Officer with me in the Ruby, who was there in 92, as well as the testimony of several of my present Ships Company, convinces me, as the seals on that spott of land, so remote from any other are so abundant, that in filling up the Nautilus it would not lengthen our Voyage four months and allowing only one dollar pr Skin 20,000 dollars so obtained would add much credit and emolument to all concerned

I hisitate long and am indeed! much concerned in troubling you so with my buisness, - but to whom in my present circumstances can I apply. - it is my wish to obtain and continue in your esteem, and my conduct now is particularly circumspect, but I declare Sir! to you I am very sorry I undertook this expidition with Such slender funds, it has involved me in a world of anxiety, which I might have avoided but which now, having gone so far, it would be shame and weakness in me to relinquish, without trying every effort, and I must ask your Assistance to get me out to Sea. - the 500 Drs. you where so kind to remit me is Expended, in the Equipment of the vessel, and daily fresh Provisions, and I am now without 20 dollars. Attcheu and Chinqua, two Chinese, have offered to get up my dry Provisions

[Page 28]
and Stores for the voyage, if Mr Conseequa will secure to them the payment of their bill. They have also agree'd to furnish me with 4 Pickell of Brass wire and 2 Pickel of Beads, which I had omitted in the list for the investment - advance wages to the Crew, and other Ex- pences here will require near 1000 dollars cash, to discharge by the time of our Sailing - I declare I am much affected, by the necessity of innumerating these circumstances, and but that I know I am writing to a Gentleman who has Candour to reply in gentle terms at the least, I would not do it - ashure Mr Consequa I am willing to give him every security in my power, and in case of accident to us in the voyage the vessel can be inshured, which I could make over to you to recover and pay the respective shares. - I would give bills on my owner, but for the possible rejection of them, in consequence of my not having any order to draw upon him - I must also trust you will pardon the intrusion I have made on your time and attention - and tho' I have already so much to be grateful for, suffer me to sollicet once more your freindly aid, by proposing a means of my getting off Speedily with Comfort and Credit - I am Sir &c &c Chas Bishop -

Macao 16th Apl. 1797

To Capt. Chas Bishop

Sir! Capt. Simpson who goes to Macao in the City of Goa, will carry you some stores &c of which I cannot at present give you the list, but the Amount of these things together with the Cloth, will Exceed I imagine 6000 Drs. the whole of which will be carried to Consequas Debit. previous to your Sailing I shall transmit you regular accounts, of all the disbursments, and then it will be necessary for you to draw up an Agreement Specifying your several Shares, that Conseequa may know how far he is interested. I have informed Capt Simpson, that it will likewise be necessary to write to Bengal or Europe for inshurence, Specifying in your letter to either place, the amount to be inshured, and to lower the Premium, I shall transmit a bill on Conseequas Account. Any part you deem proper of Conseequas advances, may be considered as beloning to Capt. Simpson, to athorise his holding a Share - a Power of Attorney must be filled up to me, which in the event of Loss or Accident to the vessel will enable me to recover the amount inshured, and pay the proportion to Each party concerned. - I have written to Mr De Souza to know if he can advance you 1000 Dollars, which I trust will be convenient to him.

It is impossible for me to decide on the Elegibility of your plan, they appear good however, and Capt.

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Simpson approves of them, and most sincerely do I wish you Success - allow me to remind you of Conseequas Interest. he has stood forward very hansomely, for without I fear you could never have been fitted out, as it would have been impossible for me to have assisted you - The fleet will probably sail about 20th May, I think not before - The Cloth will be sent as soon as possible, and believe me Sir!

Yr Ob &c &c Signed Jas Drummond
Canton 24 Apl. 1797

To Jas Drummond Esq Canton

Sir! I recieved your letter of the 24th ulto. in due time, and Capt. Simpson arriving soon after in the City of Goa. I have defered writing in hopes of being enabled to transmitt to you for Conseequa a Particular Account of the Costs and Expences of the Nautilus, but find I must defer it a few days, untill I have collected and paid all the bills I owe here. from a brief calculation I have made I find the vessel will, with that part of the investment on board cost upwards of 10,000 Drs. - I propose soon as the whole costs can be Collected, to divide the whole adventure into hundredeths and Mr Teast, Consequa, and Captain Simpson, Each hold his particular share to which their funds have contributed, in due proportion and I think the ballance should be equal between Capt Simpson and Conseequa. The Power of Attorney shall be filled up and transmitted to you, together with the letter for inshurence, soon as I know the sum it will be necessary to inshure. - I have to thank you for the receipt 1000 dollars from Mr De Souza 2d Instant - I declare Sir I have found you so ready in obliging me, that I am unwilling to suggest to you a plan I have concieved of getting the Cloth down from Canton earlier than I am afraid we must expect by any ships lest from not being acquainted with any impropriety attending it, you should think me forward and troublesome, Achie and Chinqua, two Chinamen have offered to bring it or any other goods down upon the bargain you may make for Mr Conseequa with them. Chinqua is now gone up to Canton - in adopting or rejecting this circumstance, you cannot but please me, being ashured that if it is convenient and proper, that you will favour my desires of a Speedy departure. -

The vessel is now ready, and I have a

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tolerable good Crew. Her state and appointment is certainly respectable for an outfitt at Macao. Captain Simpson with whom I am on terms of intimate Friendship agrees to go with me, and take an active part in the voyage. he is to have equal pay & Coms: with myself, namly 60 Drs. P.Mo. and 4 pCt commissions - I shall take care to leave duplicates of all my accounts in this adventure in case of accident for Mr Teast, which I will trouble you to have sent to him

I remain Sir! with great respect & Esteem
Your Much Obligd &c &c
Chas Bishop
Macao 8th May 1797

to Jas. Drummond Esq. Canton
Sir! Inclosed we send you the power of Attorney filled up, we have mutually Exchanged agreements with respect to the plan and Execution of the voyage, a Copy of which together with our accounts we will trasmitt for the Satisfaction of Mr Conseequa, but in consequence of the Enlargened Scale of the adventure, we are sorry to be under the necessity of troubling you again for Cash on Acct: of Conseequa, and that too for the very considerable Amount of 2000 dollars, unless you will permit us to give bills on You for 1000 when in that Case 1000 Cash will be fully sufficient to pay the advance and clear the vessel for Sea

Achie has been with us this morning and informs us that he has got 609 yards Cloth to deliver us tomorrow morning. he brings also a Muster of Cloth, which tho' dear for purchasing Skins, will sell to advantage. we are both of opinion if Mr Conseequa can get for us 1200 yards more, making with 600 already brought down 1800 yds. it will be Sufficient to procure 1000 of the Primest Skins, and to make up the deficiency of the 2000 yards, purpose taking 200 Chinese Blanketts at 1/2 Dollar Each, which we can buy here, we could put to Sea immediatly if we had all the investment on board, and the Peoples Advance paid Anxious to proceed has the Season is so far advanced, permit us Sir! to sollicit your attention to our circumstances, and to request you will favour us with your answer, respecting the Cash as early as possible, and if you could forward the Cloth by these Chinamen it would enable us perhaps to proceed a week sooner than if we wait for the fleet coming down.

We are Sir with Gt Respect,
&c &c &c Signed Chas Bishop
Roger Simpson
Macao May 16th 1797

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To Jas. Drummond Esq: Canton

Sir! This Evening Chinqua delivered on board 23 Pieces Cloth measuring 609 yards as by Yr note 14th - and I have given him a reciept for Mr Conseequa. he brought also 4 Picl Brass wire for which I am to pay 60 Drs pPicl. will you have the goodness to settle with him for it, and deduct it from the 2000 dollars Capt Simpson and myself wrote you to get for us from Conseequa, by Mr De Zousa - the Partner of Chinqua Achie brought us a Muster of Cloth No 2, and Said he could get any quantity of it at 2 1/2 Sp Drs. prYd: we requested in our letter to you Conseequa would get 1200 yards - the vessel is now fitted at a great Expense and Cloth even at 3 Drs prYd: would be preferable to going without a Suficient investment to purchase 1500 Skins at the least. I think, we have goods now on board equal to about 900 or perhaps 1000, and 1200 yards more would compleat a respectable investment

I declare Sir I am so sensible of the trouble you have, that it is with great reluctance, I address you on the subject of our wants, and can only add I am truly Grateful for your perseverance in Serving us.

I am Sir Yr Ob: &c &c Chas Bishop
Macao 20th May 1797

Mr. Drummonds Note of 14th.
I am much concerned that all my endeavours to procure you more Cloth than what is now sent by Achune 609 yards in 23 Pieces, have proved unsuccessful - I am sending about the Shops to try if it is possible, and you will hear from me the result, tomorrow,

I am Sir Yr Ob Servt: Signed J Drummond
Canton 14 May 1797

Letter from Mr. Drummond dated 2Ist May 1797.
Sir! I have been favoured with your letter, and am a good deal concerned, that your Expences have so far exceeded your original estimate Conseequa who has very large sums due to him from the company is so much embarressed, that he cannot raise a dollar, and hitherto every

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charge has been defrayed from my own Funds, - which at the present moment, when money is so scarce is not a little vexing, however safe I may ultimately be, in procureing repayment,I shall have no Objection to accept your bill, drawn on me for Conseequas account, payable in one or two months, and if by presenting the inclosed to Manoel Vicente De Barros you can engage him to Supply you with 1000 more, I will be responsible to him for its payment. I have not seen the person you mention who was to shew me the Sample of Cloth. I am Endeavouring to get you some of the 2d Cloth, but it will come so enormously dear, that I fear it will defeat the Intent of your voyage, which ought to be ecconomy -

I have been and am so busy with the Companys and my own buisness, that I have really had no time to send you the Accounts. Should I be at leisure, however, previous to your Sailing, I will send them. at all events you will not omit writing for Inshurence, valuing vessel and Cargo at her original Cost.

I am Sir! Yr. Ob. Servt: Signed Jas Drummond

to Mr Drummond May 25th. 1797

Sir, I was favoured with your letter and inclosure to Vicente De Barros yesterday. He readily supplyed me with the Cash, 500 dollars of which I have recieved this day, and have given him a bill at 2 months on Conseequas account for 200 more due him for sundry Stores we have recieved -

I shall pay the peoples advance immediatly, and then be able to transmit to you the accounts of the vessels costs and Expences together with a letter for inshurence - I think I ought also to bring into the account for Inshurence, the Expence of Fitting and bringing the vessel here from Amboyna, 1200 Drs. which sum tho' not coming into Conseequas and Captain Simpsons share in the adventure, yet it does in Mr Teasts, and the Premiums paid on this Surplus Sum can be carried to my Account. -

Capt. Simpson has shewn me the latter part of your letter to him, respecting our touching at Pt. Jackson - If the Nautilus was large it certainly would be a good Plan, but filled as she now is with provisions Stores and Cargo, it would not be possible for us to Carry a Cargo, the profitts of which would pay the Expences, beside the expenditure of Provisions not to be got there. This is also Capt. Simpsons opinion, as well as mine - Indeed! I am Sanguine still of proceeding first to the Coast, the Natives have always Skins by them, and the last vessel, when the cold begins to sett in, has as good a Chance of selling her investment as the first in the Spring. and I hope to be enabled to send Capt. Simpson down from the Sandwich Islands with 1500 Sea Otter Skins in Novr. while I go on to Masafuera - we are both much obliged to you for your friendly Attention to our concerns.

I am Sir &c &c &c Chas Bishop
Macao 27th May 1797

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Letter From Mr Drummond 28th May 1797
Sir! I am happy to find that Mr Manoel Vicente De Barros has been able to Supply you with the Cash you required. I have Endeavoured, but hitherto in vain, to procure more Cloth A few days will determine however wither it is possible to gett any when you will be advised thereof - I recieved your packquet of Letters and they will be forwarded by the Glatton to Europe.

I am Sir! Yr. Ob.Servt
Signed Jas Drummond.

Letter from Mr. Drummond, 7th June 1797.

Sir! I inclose you Conseequas Account current, by which you will Observe the sum of Hd Dollars 6039 advanced by him as well on his own Account as Capt Simpsons, as much risque may attend your future voyage, I begin to be alarmed on his account and has he may consider me as the Cause of involving him. I am anxious to Secure his property, as far at least as depends on my self. You will therefore write in duplicate by the Indiamen about to Sail ordering Inshurence on the Sum above specified, adding thereto to Cover the premium 20 p.Ct. Tho' as the Spanish war is positively declared, it would not be matter of Surprize if the Policy was declined altogether - you must state your intended views in this letter, and if possible, your positive track, that the underwriters may be the better able to judge of the risque. these letters you will address in duplicate to Mssrs. Boyd Benfield & Co London informing them the Inshurence is on acct of Conseequa, and on whose acct 1 shall take care to provide them with Funds. It will likewise be necessary, that you leave coppies of your Accounts and Reciepts of Cargo to prove the property on board.

You have now embarked in the voyage and ruin would attend your relinquishing it. Great Prudence must however be observed, and on no account approach near any Spanish possessions - I think if you winter at any of the Southern Islands a trip to Kamschatka, or the Russian Settlements on the american coast of which I believe they have several, might prove beneficial -

Wishing you Success & health to persue it I
remain Sir Yr Humble Servt. Jas Drummond

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To which the following P.S. was added
"When I began my letter, I had not made up my accounts.
" Some things may be omitted, which you may notice. I have since
" seen Conseequa, and the sum is so much less than I had expected
" that he leaves it to your own Judgement, wither you will inshure
" or not.

Letter to James Drummond Esq: 9th June 1797.

Sir! I am favoured with your letter of 7th by McEvoy, as I was embarking and on my way to the Nautilus, with intent of sailing tonight, which if the wind continues favourable I purpose still to do - I inclose to you an Invoice of the Cargo now on board, also a bill of the vessels Costs and disbursments in fitting - This has so far exceeded my calculations that it gives me not a little distress and anxiety when I think of it, and but that I have confidance in my plans, and dispositions to pursue them I should almost shrink from the Idea of it. We send you also duplicate of the letter we have written for inshurence, and also I beg leave to trouble you with the triplicate letter for Inshurence to Mr Teast my owner to be sent the first opportunity that offers after the Sailing of this fleet.

I am obliged to you for sugesting the Plan of going to Kamschatka, but we are now full, and moreover without a dollar left, to furnish investment to make it worth our while to drop the Sealing Expidition - you will percieve by the inclosures, the Expence we have from Necesity been at, and I hope Sir! you will Judge of them with Candour. Indeed I do not give them as Certain and true, because I have reason to think there may be Errors which from the Harressed State I have, filted in. I trust you will Excuse - I leave them thus! not having time to be more correct, in case of accident befalling us, But Trusting in Divine Providence that we shall return with Success and health, and that we shall have the happiness to find you So

I remain Good Sir

Your Affectionate, and Obliged Humble Servt.
Chas Bishop.

Letter for Inshurence, to Mssrs: Boyd Benfield & Co.London

Gentlemen! The Barque Nautilus built at Bengal about 4 years ago Estimated 75 Tons, man'd with 20 Seamen and Mariners exclusive of the under Signed, carrying six three Pounders cannon, Muskettoons and Small Arms suitable to the Number of the Crew, having been fitted at great Expence at Macao for 12 months voyage, and now lying ready to sail, intended to proceed from hence in company with the Hon'ble English East India

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Companys fleet now about to sail, thro' the Straits of Luconnia and Formosa, into the North Pacific Ocean, and parting with them proceed direct to the North West coast of America, to procure Sea Otter Skins and other furs, and after finishing her trade there, to proceed about the Middle of October from the Coast of America, to Sandwich Islands and through the Pacific Ocean, passing to Eastd: if possible of the Society Islands direct to the Island Masafuera, which lies in 34th degree South Lattitude and 81st: degree West Longitude, for the purpose of killing and Procuring Seals Skins, and after having got a Sufficient number to fill the vessel which it is expected we shall have done by 1st March 1798, to proceed direct from thence through the Society Islands to Macao, or Whampu' in River Tigris where the risque 10 days after Anchoring at Macao or 24 hours after Anchoring at Whampu' shall cease on acct. of the Inshurers.

Now this is to request of you Gentlemen to have a Policcy of Inshurence done for the Sum of Hd Dollars 8500 in and upon the Said Barque, with proviso, that if that part of the voyage, respecting her going to Masafuera shall be relin- quished and the Said vessel return direct from the Coast of America to Macao that half the premium thereon is to be returned, the Inshurence to be made, as usual, against Ememies, Pirates, dangers of the Sea &c &c and the Expence Attending this inshurence to be placed to the account of Mr Conseequa part owner of said Barque as pr Advice from Jas. Drummond Esq.

We are Gentlemen &c &c &c
Signed Chas Bishop Master & Coagent
Roger Simpson Master & Coagent,
Typa Harbr: 10 June 1797

The following Letter, and its Answer, relate to my conection with Capt. Roger Simpson.

Macao 17 April 1797.
Dr Simpson! I wrote to you the 10th: a long letter respecting a Plan I have formed of putting my Otter Skins on board another vessel on leaving the coast or, the Sandwich Islands, and proceeding with the Nautilus to Masafuera for Seal Skins, offering you, if you like to go with me, the Same Wages and commissions as myself, together with every comfort the vessel can bestow, and our Society mutually contribute to, my plan being for you to come down with the Skins and continuence in pay untill their Sale Shall be compleat

[Page 36]

and by waiting a few months for our arrival, you would most probably get the Command of the vessel, as I shall be necessitated to part with her and proceed to Europe on the Expiration of this Voyage. My letter to you of the 10th: convey'd also in Some Measure the terms, viz: 4 pCt Comms: on the otter Skins. I am by my owner allowed 6 p.Ct. but as this Sealing Voyage was not thought on before, I give you 2 p.Ct. of my Commissions and Charge 2 to Mr Teast, which will be the same terms as Adamson and his Supercargo Sailed on and Equal Wages - I have indeed! wished much for Mr Drummonds Opinion on the Subject, which on consideration, I am inclined to believe He would from his great Mercantile knowledge, acquiesse in, if you agree to Accompany me - By a letter from him to day he informs me you are to leave Whampu' in a few days in the Goa, also of the arangement he has made for me - I am certainly much obliged by his Attention and Generous Exertions in my favour, and as I am convinced he will recieve much Satisfaction in my voyage turning out Succesful, I would wish to Secure by your going with me that part of the Plan as above related.

The Captain of the Canton informed me he should be able to Spare a 5 oar'd yawl. I saw the boat and think it would answer us if She can be procured for 20£ or thereabout, will you purchase her for me and bring her down, - I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you Shortly, and if you go with me and have any Spare Cash to throw into the adventure, you may take the opportunity of Obliging Yourself and me too - I mention this circumstance for I am really at my witts end to raise Cash to pay the Advance and leave Macao with Comfort and Credit - If you should not be about coming shortly, write me word, - This Letter I inclose to Mr Drummond, because I have reason to be Sorry I have not adopted some plan like it before, as probably my other letters to you dated 26th. March and 10th Apl. are not come to Hand:

I am DSir! Yours & &
Chas Bishop

Letter to Capt. Chas Bishop in Reply, dated 22d Apl.1797.
Dear Bishop! I am now about to Answer two of your Letters, one dated 26th March the other 17th - I hope e'er this you have got an officer in Mr Edes Room - I was very sorry to hear my old friend Reid was ill, and happy to hear since that he is recovered, it is very odd I have not had a letter from him, nor any answer to two of mine, which where of consequence, I soppose he has Sailed, He is a good fellow & Carries my best wishes with him, - not getting the Clemmons (Leather war Dresses) must have disapointed you, but I hope you will do well without them - I am glad to find you have

[Page 37]
improved your vessel, and that you have procured Canvass, if you have not enough I have Some half worn Sails on board the Goa - I feel myself much Obliged by the good Opinion of me you transmitted to Mr Drummond who has Spoken to me on the Subject and offered me money to take a Share of the Nautilus with Conseequa, if so I wish to know what kind of shares we are to have, nothing less than a Third will make it worth my while to go the voyage - not knowing that circumstance, renders it impossible for me to determine, altho' I have told Mr Drummond I was agreeable to go - in one of your letters my friend, you mention 24 dollars a month, I hope you were not in Ernest when you wrote that as it is only Servants wages in the N.W. trade - I must inform you I am willing to take a third Share. and for our own Credit Sake we will hereafter settle the 24 Dollar buisness.

I approve much of the plan of your voyage and your trade, but when Mr Drummond set me off to procure the part of the investment wanting, I had not your list up at Canton with me and have ordered 200 Trunks instead 150 - 3/4ths of which are to be red, Paper covered and varnished, my reason was for that, when I was on the coast last year, they would not give so much for a Leather covered black trunk as they would for a red paper one, and red had the preference to any other colour - 50 are to be black leather trunks, the whole to be delivered in the Typa in 20 days for 300 Dollars, I could not possibly get them cheaper I have ordered 1 Picl Beads, red yellow and blue for the Sandwich Islands. I have likewise bought and got on board the Goa, 7 Picl: of fine Stout Leaguer Iron Hoops as thick as Bar Iron almost - a Case of Pickells and some Empty Water Casks if you want them. I have bespoke 8 Dozn Port wine, and a Cask of Ale, the Cable I have look'd at, which is 9 inch, and meant to have gone to Canton to have agree'd on the price for it, but was taken ill this Morning, the City of Goa is already to Sail and I am not able to go up and report it. - There is some Jacketts here but I fear they are too dear, being 4 Drs: pr Jackett, - I dont see you have thought about small brass bangles, which I sold very well. I believe I shall get a pickell - I am not able to get any small Rope Indeed! rope of any Kind - I have recd on board for you 10 Teirces of Beef to day each weighing Gross 378 Ibs and are in good order. I have likewise a good stock of fire wood - I shall collect everything you have indented for that lays in my Power and anything else that I think will be of Service -

[Page 38]
Canton 22d Apl.
A little recovered my health I recieved the favour of yours of 17th my dear friend this day - Mr. D- gave it me, with whom I had some talk again respecting the voyage. He observed to Me you could not have applied to a worse hand than himself, and asked my opinion. I told him, I approved very much of the plan of your voyage. He has given me a Power of Attorney to be signed by you & me, and requests we will write to Mssrs: Colvins and Bassett, for inshurence and Says he will cover the Premium with a bill on acct. of Conseequa, but says what ever we do must be jointly

Mr. D- says he can procure no Pork for you, if so my friend turn to and Salt for the voyage. I bought 244 Ibs which I mean to Salt and if I have time shall Salt more - I have got some vingar and a few Coals - I have a deal of difficulty in getting down to Whampu' what I have already bought, and much wish I may Succeed at all. - I have bought the 9 inch Cable to day and the Cantons Jolly boat which I shall bring down with me - I bilieve I shall bring down with me 30 pr English Blanketts at 4 Drs. p Pair. I have therefore as funds are low, proposed taking them and 2000 yards Cloth instead of Jacketts Trowsers and Chinese Blanketts. I shall bring one firkin Butter and part of another.

I can say no more than I have recieved my Grand Chop to depart and Pilot with orders to proceed down to Macao immediatly, but in Consequence of not having got such things down I have already agree'd for, I shall make an Excuse for one night. But I shall possitively sail from Whampu' to- morrow so look out for us, and be careful to have a boat alongside us before we get into the Typa, otherwise some trouble may arrise to the Ship. I think you had better get McEvoys boat ready of Lintin and then we shall be shure of being safe

I am Dr Bishop &c &c Signed Roger Simpson

Captain Simpson Came down with the Goa to Macao, where he delivered her up 2d May to Manoel Vicente De Barros, and entered into agreement to accompany me in the Nautilus, in Quality of Factor or Trader, and in Case of Accident to me, he was to Succeed to the Sole command. he also holds half the Share, which Conseequas Funds, advanced in the Adventure, intitles him to, and for which He is accountable to Conseequa. add to this, He is a Sober intelligent and honourable young Man, possessed of great Maritime and Nautical Ability, and an Extensive knoledge of the N.W.Trade &c

[Page 39]
The following agreement was mutually entered into between us the 10th May 1797.

This Indenture of two parts made and Entered into between Charles Bishop, Commander and Consignee of the Bark Nautilus, of Bristol in the County of Somersett, Mariner, on the one part, and Roger Simpson of London, Mariner, on the other part, Witnesseth, That the aforesaid Roger Simpson hath contracted and agreed, and doth hereby contract and agree to do and perform on board the aforesaid Bark a voyage to the North West coast of America, and such other places in the Pacific Ocean as it is usual or may be Expidient to touch at, for the purpose of procuring a Cargo of Furs, and that dureing the continnuence thereof, he will truly and faithfully perform the duty of Trader and Factor on board the Said Bark, under the Directions of the Said Charles Bishop: and should the Said Charles Bishop think proper to remit Such furs as may be collected in the Said Bark, to China in any other Safe vessel, at any time or place, then, and in that Case the Said Roger Simpson, doth contract and agree, and hath hereby contracted, and agree'd, to proceed at the request of Said Charles Bishop with the aforementioned furs in Charge, and the same to deliver to the Order of the Said Charles Bishop, or otherwise dispose thereof as he Shall be directed in writing

And Furthermore the said Roger Simpson doth contract and agree, and hath hereby contracted and agree'd that in case of the death or incapacity of the said Charles Bishop he will take the command of the Said Bark, and conduct the voyage aforementioned, as to him shall seem most advantageous to the interest of all persons concerned therein, for the same Wages and Allowances as the Said Charles Bishop would have recieved for conducting the Same, Provided Always, that in Case of the death or incapacity of the Said Charles Bishop, His Heirs: Executors, Administrators or Assigns, shall be intitled to whatever wages were due, and Commissions on whatever Furs were collected prior to the death or in capacitation of the Said Charles Bishop, - And moreover the Said Roger Simpson, hath contracted and agree'd, and doth hereby contract and agree to give his opinion in writing, in a Book to be keept for that purpose, on any proposition of the Said Charles Bishop, for the furtherence & advantage of the Said voyage

[Page 40]
And in the said book all reasons shall be specified, if required by Either of the contracting parties of the other, for proposing, assenting to, or dissenting from, any plan, which, on the Said voyage, may be proposed,

And the Said Charles Bishop hath contracted and agree'd, and doth hereby contract and agree with the Said Roger Simpson for and in consideration of the premises, to pay, or cause to be paid unto the Said Roger Simpson, his Heirs, Ex:rs Admin:rs or Assigns the Sum of Sixty dollars pr Month, and Four p Centum on the amount of the Sales of Such Furs as may be collected, after such Duties or imposts as may be charged thereon shall be deducted, and also to furnish the Said Roger Simpson with good and wholsome food, water Spirituous Liquors and Medicines, together with Such accomodations as the Nature of the case will admit, and next in conveniency to those occupied by the Said Charles Bishop himself, dureing the Aforesaid voyage - And in case of the death or incapacity of the Said Charles Bishop, the Said Roger Simpson is hereby constituted and appointed Commander and Consignee of the Said vessel or Bark, with full power and Athority to persue the Said voyage, as in the Articles of Agreement made and Entered into between the commander & Officers and Mariners of the Said Bark is Specified and set forth, and furthermore the Said Charles Bishop hath contracted and agree'd, and doth &c &c - to give his opinion in writing in a Book to be keept for that purpose, on any proposition of the Said Roger Simpson for the Furtherence and Advantage of the Said Voyage, and in the Said Book all reasons shall be Specified if required by Either of the contracting parlies of the other, for proposing, assenting to, or dissenting from any plan which on the Said voyage may be proposed.

Now Know All Men by these presents that we the aforesaid Charles Bishop and Roger Simpson, are held and firmly bound and do hereby firmly bind ourselves, our Heirs Administrators or Assigns, unto Each other in the Penal Sum of Ten Thousand Spanish Dollars, for the full and true performance of every Matter and thing, specified and set forth in the premises, In Witness whereof, We have hereunto set our Hands, and Seals at Macao in the Empire of China this Tenth day May in Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and Ninty Seven.

Signed Charles Bishop
Signed Roger Simpson

Signed, Sealed Deliver'd &c &c &c
Signed Robt. Ogilvy, Stepn. Bones

[Page 41]
Letter to Mr. Teast pr Hon'ble C-Ship Glatton
Began 30th Apl., concluded 5th June 1797

No. 15:
Dr. Sir! In my last letter No.14 dated at Sea in Latt: O° 30' N Long 130 ° 20' Et. by the ship Jane then parting company bound for Madrass, I informed you I was proceeding alwell towards Macao, having in two preceeding letters from Macao Amboyna, informed you of my having purchasing this beautiful vessel, for the purpose of another voyage to the North west coast, with well founded hopes of retrieving the failures caused by the Rubys leaky state, and urged by my particular anxiety that that part of your property you invested me with, tho latter than at first expected, should finally increase under my directions -

After parting from the Jane, we had a rough passage and blew away or Splitt most of the Sails, and to add to the misfortune, the Chief Officer and the man at the Helm who pitched way in an heavy lurch of the Sea, both fell overboard and was drowned to my great affliction. - However on the abatement of the Gale, we proceeded on and after a Short passage of 5 Weeks from Amboyna, Arrived safe at Macao 19th Feb.y and found here the Dragon Cutter fitting for the N.W. coast, the Captain of which had purchased the Leather War Dresses I brought down in the Ruby a short time before we arrived, and consequently I am disapointed of one great source of my investment.

However with a persevering and determined disposition of mind, we sett to work refitting the vessel, in which I have made the following alterations additions and Amendments.- Her rail, which was low and seemed rather calculated to chuk People overboard, than to save them from falling, and had been the cause of my loosing those 2 poor fellows overboard, was only two feet high with painted Cavass. this has been replaced with one four feet high, well Secured with Stantions and boarded up with Inch board all round and a Barrocade to the Qr(Quarter) Deck.

Her channels which were too narrow, and the Chain plates which were too Slight, with dead blocks to reeve the Ends of the Shrouds thro', which is an unsafe, and consequently an unseamanlike fashion, have been replaced with strong Channels sufficiently broad, and new Chain Plates with dead Eyes, to set up the Shrouds with Lanyards, the Puttock plates for the Topmast shrouds the Same, - Her Main boom of 42 feet, having been twice carried away, is now laid aside, and in the room of making a new one, we have turned her into a Barque by stepping a Mizzen Mast, and by

[Page 42]
this means enabling us to keep the boarding nettings up always under Sail or at Anchor, a circumstance now become highly necessary. - Her tops, which before were only crosstrees with a rim round them, are now properly made, and covered with light board for the purpose of having two Swivals mounted in each, when trading with the Indians on the coast or at the Sandwich Islands. - The combings of the Hatches being too low, have been replaced with higher ones fitted with loop holes for Close quarters, and a Companion over the fore and after Hatchways - Her Bowsprit which was decayed in the Partners and was condemned, has been replaced with a new one - Her decks and upper works, which had been badly caulked by Malay Slaves at Amboyna, has been caulked alover again, and the vessel twice painted - Her Standing rigging well refitted, and where bad, replaced with new and new Running rigging almost fore and aft, - Her old Suits of Sails repaired, and new Courses and Topsails added to them. - A new Europe Cable and bower Anchor and a new boat.

And now Sir! I must hope when you consider what a Place Macao is to refitt, where the cheapest Europe articles bear an advance at least of 70 pCt and where provisions are dear and Scarce that you will inspect the inclosed bill of Expences and disbursments with Candour, as indeed I must hope you will do all my proceedings. Ashure yourself Sir! that my mind is disposed to fair and honourable persuits, and that in no Instance have I swerved to Charge what in my last moment I would wish to eraze. Indeed! I am confidant notwithstanding, all my care and attention, to the Ships Expences, I am looser by the disbursments - but for most of them I have vouchers either in Shape of Bills, reciepts, agreements or the Log Book.

But in consequence of missing the Leather war dresses, and the great Expence of Equipping the vessel here, I am necessitated to enlarge the scale of my funds - and which gave rise to the great obligations I am under to Mr. James Drummond, one of the Companys Supercargos, who as a Gentleman, and a Merchant, is in the highest estimation in this Quarter of the World - I at first wrote, informing him of the whole circumstances of my voyage in the Ruby, my instructions from you and further intentions, in hopes he himself would adopt a part in the Expidition, not knowing then, that by particular orders of the Company, their Servants are prohibited from concerning themselves in any private commercial conection - He andswered my Letter in a Friendly manner informing me of this Circumstance, at the Same time offered to procure for me, the credit I solicieted from the Chinese Merchants - (vide Correspondence) The obligation he has confered on me I shall never forget.-

[Page 43]
On my arrival here, I wrote to the Select Committee of Supercargos for the Hon'ble Companys Affairs in China pointing out the particular and unfortunate voyage of the Ruby and the situation I then stood with respect of the Licence, which you know Sir! Expires next September, and asked their officers permission to return here with the skins I may collect in the ensuing voyage - after some Demure, I recieved the following letter from them, (vide Select Committee Letter page 76)

Indeed! every person, With whom thro' buisness I am acquainted seems interested in my concerns and anxious that I may set off fair to make a good voyage, my conection with Mr Howel, of course, after the involved state he reduced your property to has ceased, and tho' at Amboyna every thing was fairly Settled, yet I will never trust him again, -

I am under the necessity of informing you that in consequence of missing the Leather war dresses, together with the Expences of Equipping the vessel, that I am obliged to admit a Partner in the concern, in the Person of Mr Conseequa a Chinese Merchant, who gives half his share to Capt Roger Simpson, who goes with me in quality of Factor or trader, from his general Knowledge of the N. W. trade. we have jointly written for Inshurence to Bengal, and Mr. Drummond is so good to Cover it for Us - I am now making up the Accounts, and wait only for Mr Drummond to send me Conseequas from Canton, to Close them. The vessel is certainly Equipped in a very respectable manner, with 12 months provision and an able Crew of 20 men, with an investment sufficient to procure 1400 Sea otter skins probably 1600.

Having been detained here so long I have by and with the advice of the parties concerned, together with the opinion of those Gentlemen acquainted with the Riches of the pacific Ocean made, or intend the following arangement in the voyage -

The Nautilus now about to Sail arrives on the N. W. coast the latter end of July, and proceeds to Certain Known Ports and points where skins are to be bought, and continnues thus untill the investment is sold, or the 20th October arrives when she leaves the Coast of America, and unless there is a probability of falling in with a vessel, going immediatly down to China at the Sandwich Islands, proceed on to Masafuera where from good and certain, information 20,000 Seal

[Page 44]
Skins may be procured, dried and Shipped in three summer months - but should on leaving the Sandwich Islands coast of America fall in with or hear of a vessel being at the Sandwich Islands, I would first repair there, and freight the otter Skins down under the charge of Capt. Simpson and consigned to Mr D- thereby secureing that part of the voyage, and taking 8 Islanders on board it would greatly facilitate my Sealing Expidition.

Seal skins are worth here now 1 1/2 dollars each but allowing them only to be worth 1 Dollar when we arrive, 4 months Extra time, in a voyage were no difference of Equippment is made, is well Spent in gaining 15 or 20,000 Dollars. - as I have obtained permission to return here with the Skins and Furs I may collect, I must hope Sir! you will Sanction my Exertions to redeem the Rubys failure and as probably we shall be near 12 months on our voyage, I request you will favour me with a letter, by the first China Ships that Sail after the Reciept of this, it being my intention to sell the Nautilus totally and remit home the proceeds to you, and return myself to Bristol and if anything could give me more pleasure than making a full flowing good voyage, it would be hearing from you, and that you have not lost that confidence in me, I was honoured with when in England I ashure you Mr Teast, I value your good opinion so much, that I am very anxious on this Score, and my Zeal for your Interest will I hope Excuse my conduct in the deviations I have made.

I inclose to you a sett of the Rubys accounts and also a rough statement of my present Expidition - the fleet is now about Sailing from Canton, and I am favoured with an opportunity of sending this up Immediatly - we shall Sail in a day or two, and if anything transpires before worth your Attention I will write you of it.

I am Sir &c &c &c
Chas Bishop
Macao 5th June 1797

In consequence however of a different arrangement being made with respect to inshuring the vessel (vide Letter to Mssrs. Boyd & Co. (Pages 95-6) 1 wrote the following one to Mr Teast in Triplicate by difft. Ships of the Hon'ble Co.s Fleet then about to Sail for England.

(No.16) Macao 10th June 1797
Sir! This is to request if you think Proper, you will have inshurence made for your property in the Barque, (late Brig) Nautilus amounting to the Sum of Hd. Dollars 9970 - This beautiful fast Sailing vessel, I have, at great Expence, at length compleatly Equipped, and she is now ready to Sail, intending to accompany the Hon'ble Companys fleet if possible from hence through the Straits of Luconnia and Formosa, into the North Pacific Ocean. and passing from then, proceed on direct to the North west coast of America. to procure Sea otter Skins and other furs.

[Page 45]
and soon as having finished the trade there and about 20th October proceed to the Sandwich Islands, and through the Pacific Ocean, passing to the Eastd. of the Society Islands if possible, unto the Island Masafuera in 34th degree South Latitude, and 31st: Degree Wt. Longitude to procure Seal Skins, and after filling the vessel which it is Expected we shall have done by the 1st March 1798, to proceed through the Society Islands to Macao or Whampu' in the River Tigris where 10 days after anchoring at Macao or 24 hours after arriving at Whampu the risque may cease on Account of the Inshurers.

The Nautilus is about 4 years old built of Tic Wood at Bengal, and finished in most Excellent Manner, has been compleatly Equipped here for the voyage, carries 6 three Pounders Brass Cannon, four Swivals, with Small arms Suitable to the Crew of 22 Seamen and mariners beside myself - has on board an investment reckoned equal to the purchase of 1500 Sea Otter Skins with 12 months provisions and Stores, and is Copper Sheathed -

In consequence of the news of a Spanish War great Care will be taken not to approach any Spanish Settlement. I have written you a pacquet of Letters pr Favr of Danl Beale Esq. inclosing the Rubys Accounts>*, and Capt Broughton has favoured me with taking Charge of the Journal of her voyage for you -
I beg you will ashure yourself Sir of my integrity, being very faithfully - Yr Most Ob. Servt. Chas Bishop

* on Particularly examining those Accounts, an Error was observed when they where found to be as stated in Pages 45-6-7 and 49-50-51.

The following is the Articles of Agreement entered into by the Officers and Crew for Performing the voyage.

Articles of Agreement made and entered into between the Master Officers Seamen and Mariners of the Bark Nautilus whereof Charles Bishop is at present Master, now bound from Greens Bay in China to the North west coast of America, and thence to any Island or Islands in the Pacific Ocean, for the purpose of Procureing a Cargo of Seals Skins, and thence back to China, That in consideration of the Monthly wages against Each respective Officers, Seamans and Mariners Name hereunto set, they severally shall and will perform

[Page 46]
the above Mentioned Voyage, and the Said Master doth hereby agree with and hire the Said Officers Seamen and Mariners for the Said voyage at the Said Specified wages to be paid pursuent to the Laws of Great Britain - And they the Said Officers Seamen and Mariners do hereby Promise and Oblige themselves to do their duty, and obey all lawful commands of the officers of the Said Bark or the boats thereunto belonging, as becomes good and faithful Seamen and Mariners, and that at all Places where the Said Bark shall put in or Anchor at, dureing the Said voyage, to do their best Endeavour, for the preservation of the Said Bark and Cargo, and not to neglect or refuse doing their duty by day, or by night, nor go out of the vessel on board any other, or on shore, on any pretence whatsoever, without leave first obtained of the Master, or commanding officer on board, That in default thereof, they will not only be liable to the penelties, mentioned in an Act of Parliament made in the second year of the reign of King George the Second entitled an Act, for the better regulation of Seamen in the Merchant Service, but will farther, in case they should on any account whatsoever, leave or desert the Said Bark without the Masters Consent untill the aforesaid voyage be finished and concluded and the Said Bark unladen, be liable to forfiet one hundred Spanish Dollars, with every their Wages, goods and Chattels on board, renouncing by these presents, for themselves, Their Heirs, executors, administrators or Assigns, all right and title thereunto, and it is further understood and agree'd to by the Said officers Seamen and Mariners, that 48 hours absence without leave, is and shall be deemed a totall desertion, and doth incur the aforesaid Penalty: and that any person, who shall Plunder or Embezzle the Cargo or stores of the Said Bark, or Trade with, or Recieve Presents, from any person or persons whatsoever, without permission first obtained from the commander, doth incur and become liable to all the penalties and forfietures herein before Specified - And furthermore the Said Master doth hereby promise and agree that on arriving at the Sandwich Islands, if the said Seamen and Mariners, shall choose to relinquish their Wages for the remaining part of the voyage, which is to be considered as concluding and Ending on the delivery of the Cargo of Seal Skins in China He will then allow to each such Seaman or Mariner a Commission prCentum on the sales of Said Cargo of Seal Skins, in lieu of Said Wages.

And the Said officers Seamen and Mariners do hereby contract and agree with the Said Master, that in case of his the Said Masters death or incapacity, they will well and truly obey, in manner and form, and under the Penalties herein before set forth, Roger Simpson, now Trader or Factor of the Said Bark, as Master thereof, the Said Roger Simpson, in such case becoming liable to the payment of all wages or other Just dues to the said officers Seamen and Mariners in like manner as the Said Charles Bishop hath hereby contracted to be - Now for the Due performance of the Premises, and

[Page 47]
in testimony thereof we the Said Officers, Seamen, and Mar: have volontarily set our names or marks hereunto, in the month and day to the Said names affixed and in the year of our Lord 1797.

List follows of Name; Date; Quality; Monthly Wages and Discharge Dates. [List not transcribed]
The foregoing Letters, agreements &c will, I should hope, Sufficiently explain my proceedings in Equipping the vessel, and the motives of my Conduct therein, and the following will be the account of the Expences and Disbursments From the time of her Arrival untill She Sailed from Macao for the N. W.W. coast of America together with an Invoice of the Investment taken on board for the purchase of Sea Otters Skins on the N.W. Coast, -

[Page 48]
D:r Owners of the Nautilus in Account with Charles Bishop, Master, for Equippment of the vessel at Macao 1797. [List not transcribed
[Page 49]
Debtor Owners of the Nautilus in Account with Charles Bishop Master thereof, For Equippment of the Vessel at Macao 1797. [Continuation of List - not transcribed
[Page 50]
[Continuation of list - not transcribed
[Page 51]
Account of 2 months advance Pay and other moneys Paid to the Crew and the Creditors previous to leaving Macao.
[List not transcribed]
N.B. this list is only to Shew the Expence I was at in Collecting and keeping together the Crew but which Sums of course stands against their wages & includes the Hope I had let them have but the Sums marked in the margin was paid in hard cash - amounting in the whole to 1087 Dollars 50 cents.

Invoice of Sundry Goods laden on board the Brig Nautilus for Purchasing a Cargo of Trees, on Account and Risque of the Owners thereof
[List not transcribed
[Page 52]
Invoice continued - [not transcribed]
Account of monies Recd from, and Paid by Mr Conseequa.
[List not transcribed
[Page 53]
In the foregoing bill of Disbursments, there may be some Deduction to make, from the bills of Mssrs. Peters and McEvoy, (the compradores) for money advanced, or Expenses of the People paid by my Directions, or Private Expences of my own, or Servants, and which, as they are written in Portaguese I cannot now clear up, untill an opportunity offers of getting them translated, - whatever deduction there may be to make, it will lessen the Expence of the outfitt, and of course be deducted from my particular Share in it. Chas Bishop -

On 16th June we took our Departure from Macao Sailing in Company with the Hon'ble Companys fleet bound to Europe, and on 19th. met with an heavy Typhoon which Seperated the fleet, and in which we Sprung our Fore Mast and Bowsprit as was Sopposed, for we did not discover it untill 2 days after the Gale was over -

[Page 54]
On 23d June, having cutt up a Spare Topmast and fished the Foremast with it in the best manner we could at Sea, we fell in with part of the Hon'ble Companys Fleet, and from the Taunton Castle Capt Studd, I obtained a Spar 52 feet long 12 1/2 Inches diameter to serve us for a Foremast in case the present defective one should give way in our passage. - Capt. Studd accepted my Bill on Mr Teast for the European cost of it, 10 £ accompanyed with my letter of advice (No.17) after which we parted Co: and proceeded on our voyage. on the 30th. we anchored in a Bay near the S. Point of Formosa for the purpose of getting our water filled up. 2 Casks having leaked out together with the long passage we have had across the China Sea that near 2/5ths of it was expended. - soon as the Ship was secured at her Anchor, I went with 2d officer and five men in the boat to find a watering place, which we did nearly abreast the Ship - but there being too much surf to Land the boat, we came to a Grapnal just without it, and about 20 yards from the beach, and the People swam a shore with the Casks and bucketts, myself and Boat Keeper staying in the boat. they had began filling the Casks when suddenly a large Party of Indians rushed out from behind some Rocks, and fired a volly of Shott, arrows and Darts amoung our people, who instantly fled, being totally unarmed, into the water towards the boat. the Indians following them close to the Edge of the Surf, gave the boatkeeper and my self an opportunity to discharge the loaded Arms in the boat at them with Effect, and several where killed and wounded. However in the interval of Loading our Musketts, two Indians more daring then the rest, rushed into the water to catch hold of Mr Harbottle who was the hindmost of our people, being wounded by an arrow in the back and his thigh bone broken by a Gun shott. happily however he got within reach of one of the oars and we Saved him by timly wounding his assailants - Except a few Shott holes in the boat together with loss of Casks and bucketts and the wounded State of the 2d Officer, we got on board Safe - and began to get underweigh but unfortunately the Anchor had hooked a rock, and the weather looking very unsettled we where under the necessity of loosing the anchor and putting out to sea as fast as possible.

On 3d July we met with another very heavy Tphoon or Chinese Storm, which did us considerable damage and made the vessel leaky in her upper works. from that time to 4th August we had a series of Light baffling winds and Calms, with dry Sultry and hott weather, when being in Latitude only 35° 54' N and Longitude 150°: 19' Et. with not more than 18 or 20 days water

[Page 55]
in the Ship, together with the leaky State of the upper works, and defective condition of her Foremast & Bowsprit it was judged most prudent to repair to Harbr of St Peters and Paul in Kamschatka and refitt the Condition of the vessel, we accordingly steerd for that port and on 25th arrived there, having then not 2 Gallons of water on board.

It was not untill 9th: October that the vessel was put into a fitt state of Proceeding to Sea, the Season for going to the N W. coast of America having elapsed, it had become the Intention of Mr Simpson and myself as the best plan to persue for the Interest of all Concerned to repair to the Sandwich Islands and on to Masafuera to procure Seals Skins dureing the winter in Northern Hemisphere and return to the N W coast in the Spring of the following year. the following Letters where left in the hands of the Russian Govr. who promised to forward them with the Anual dispatches to Europe in November.

Harb.St Peter & Paul Kamschatka
8th October 1797

(No 18) To Sidenham Teast Esq.

Dear Sir! That your vessel should be here and at this Period will no doubt awaken your Attention, but premissing the Account with telling you we are now about Sailing again all well, I will inform you of the circumstances has arose and which Obliged in to relinquish going to the coast of America this Season and come here.

If you have recieved my last letter in June by the Hon'ble Co Ship Taunton Castle, Capt Studd, you will find we Sailed in Company with the fleet bound across the China Sea 16th June,. and that in a few days after in a violent Typhoon we had the misfortune to Spring our Foremast and Bowsprit which we fished in the best manner we could, Captain Studd having Generously supplied us with a Spar at the European Price for a bill upon you which I took the liberty to draw for 10 £ but in consequence of a long Passage across the China Sea. occasioned mostly by the default in the foremast, (we thought proper to Anchor in a Bay near the South Point of Formosa, to try and fill up our water - the boat with myself and a good crew well armed went on Shore for that purpose. I took also with me

[Page 56]
a few Knives, beads and looking Glasses, to give any Natives we might meet and induce them to bring us fresh Stock with which the Island abounds. Amicably inclined to do them no harm whatever we landed at a good watering place without percieving any Natives and began to fill the Casks, when Suddenly our people were fired upon by a large party of the Natives 'till then concealed behind the rocks close to the boat - Altho' out of the boat and on my way thro' the surf to the beach, I regained her again immediatly and with the Boat Keeper kept up so smart a fire with the ready loaded arms upon the Indians that our people reached the boat in Safty all except Mr John Harbottle 2d Mate who was dangerously wounded in the back knee and his thigh bone broken - we recovered him from the Natives, however, altho' they disputed the Point with us 'till several fell and others retreated evidently wounded, and we regained the Ship. The Cause of this unprovoked attack arose as we immagine from the conduct of a Certain Capt. Browne, who committed some depredations amongst these people in the year 1793, and which I did not know before, But poor Harbottle was one of his officers at the time - we had another misfortune attending our anchoring in this bay, our Anchor got so entangled with foul ground that we could not possibly get it, and we lost with it 20 fathems Cable - disapointed at not filling up our water, we went to an allowance of 3 Pints pr Day, Each man. A violent Typhoon arose soon after quitting this bay, and our Starbd. fore Channel was broke down by a sea, nevertheless by wearing the vessel we Saved the Foremast, - for near 30 days after this we had a succession of Calm or Light baffling winds, so that on the 4th August being then only in 36 degree North 150th: degree East, we found it necessary to keep a direction for this place, for the purpose of getting water and Securing the mast - we had little or no rain all the time, or we had hoped to have catched Enough to make out at 3 Pints pr man 'till we reached the coast of America - but the tottering State of the Foremast and Bowsprit, placed us in so precarious a situation to encounter the Stormy and Savage Shores of America, that being nearly in the Meridian of this Place, we bore up and got safe in 24 August, having when we anchored only three gallons of water on board - I must beg Sir you will not concieve it arose from any improvidence in me, in not furnishing a proper quantity of that essential article, before we left Macao. We had

[Page 57]
Then, 70 days water at 1 Gallon p Day each man, but to those who are acquainted with an outfitt at Macao, it will not be strange to hear, the villian Cooper, had so ill prepared the Casks, that one third of our whole Stock was lost. disapointed, also, at not filling up our water at Formosa and not Catching any rain water, we had Spun it out to the last Cask and the last Gallon of that cask before we could get in to anchor here.

The Russian commander, the same Hospitable Captain Shmalleff so highly spoken of in Cooks voyage, recieved us in a most Friendly manner, and has assisted us in fitting out with every assistance in his power. - Pine Spars do not grow here, but he let us have a Kingships Mizen Mast, an Anchor and new 12 Inch Cable (118 fathems) requiring only a Certificate from us that we where in distress for those articles, and that he recieved no payment or recompence for Supplying us, his people worked for us, and we daily recieved refreshments from him, our wounded officer has been taken care of on Shore and is now recieved on board much recovered the Fore mast has been Securely fished and hooped and we have a new Bowsprit.

But now Sir, having lost our Season on the coast this year, I beg leave to inform you of our intended plan, we Sail this Evening or tomorrow for the Sandwich Islands to get a few of the Natives and proceed on to Masafuera to get Seals Skins which are valuable in China - our Stay there will be so regulated to arrive on the NW. coast by 3ist May. 98. a period with the goods and knoledge we have of the coast. Early enough to accomplish the otter Skin part of the voyage so has to return to China by November, when I hope to Accomplish my arduous undertaking with Success and Credit, and to return with such information and Knowledge of these Seas, that you may be Enabled to derive benefit from a future undertaking and with surer prospects of Success than when I set out in the Ruby.

Inclose a Protest made out on our arrival here as to the necessity of our coming, and the good Major Shmalleff under- takes to forward our letters this winter to Petersburg from whence I hope you will recieve them safe. - I take the Liberty to inclose a pacquet for my Dr Friends in Hampshire which I trouble you to forw:
I am Sir &c &c &c Chas. Bishop

[Page 58]
A letter to the same Effect, relating the particulars of the voyage and its disasters, together with our farther intentions was written to Mr. Drummond, for the information of Mr Conseequa, and Addressed to him in English, Russian and Chinese. -

On Tuesday 10th October we set Sail, and on Saturday 14th we met with the heavyest Storm the oldest Seamen on board ever knew. Other Gales of wind and Typhoons were but Squalls compared to this tremendous Blow

Copy of the Remarks in the Log Book Sat.dy 14th Otober 1797

"Heavy Gales and severe squalls and Gusts of wind with constant rain, veering round gradually from S Et. to Sd and west, with the most terrible Sea the oldest Seaman on board ever knew - 10PM the Mizen Staysail Splitt and blew to ribbons, - 3a.m. an heavy Sea Struck us and broke in the rail, and Bulwark from the fore to the main Rigging on the Larbd Side, which Splitt the shear plank, and caused us to make a good deal more water, 1 Pump being kept con- stantly going - 5a.m. Shipped another very heavy Sea, that intirely washed away all the rail and Bulwark on both Sides before the main mast, swept the Caboose overboard and 1 Brass three Pounder, 2 other guns were swept off the deck but saved by their breechings - at 6a.m. Fore Staysail blew away -

"From the damages done by the sea in rending the gunwalls open, and constantly deluging the deck, the vessel leaked so much that both Pumps would hardly keep her free: in this situation it was Judged prudent to cutt up the Spare Spars and throw them overboard and to Clear the decks. the Small Bower anchor being loose over the bows by breaking of the Stantions, and the Seas now making a Clean Sweep over the deck. it was impossible to Save it, and it was Lost - the Spare Pump Geer having been brought upon deck to be at hand, was lost overboard too. however the deck being cleared and leather nailed over the worst parts in the Gunwalls, our Pumps constantly going, kept her free again. At noon no abatement of the storm, but clearer weather."

The next day the Storm abated a little, when from the wrecked state of the vessel, it was judged most prudent to endeavour to regain the Harb: of St Peter and Paul, distant only about 60 Leagues. the Loss of the Spare pump Geer was irreparable, we thought, any where else, without giving up the voyage and returning to Macao. we therefore beat against an almost continnued Gale with Snow and Sleet untill 24th: when the cordage, from its frozen State, gave way so often, in Clewing up the Sails, that finding it impossible to regain our wished for Port we bore up for the Sandwich Islands, to endeavour to refitt the vessel there.

{page 59]
In the severe weather off Kamschatka much of the Cargo was damaged and Spoiled, Particularly the Trunks and Sugar. On the 2d December we arrived off owhyhee and on the 8th: Anchored in Karakakooa bay, where by the Assistance of the Europeans resident on the Island, we began our repairs, which we compleated in the best manner we were able by the 2d Jany. when having purchased 2 Cannoes and Shiped Several European Seamen, in room of some discontented we discharged, together with 4 additional Islanders, we sailed for the Leeward Islands to compleat the Stock of Provisions, which having done in the best manner we where enabled we finally left the Islands 3Oth Jan.y 1798 and made Sail towards Masafuera.

Table not Transcribed

[Page 60]
Costs and Expences of the vessel at Kamschatka and Sandwich Islands

Tables not transcribed

[Page 61]
Nothing material happened except that in setting up the Lower rigging, we carried away Three of the main Shrouds, and was under the necessity of cutting off 10 fathems of the new Cable to convert into Main Rigging) untill 25 Feb.y when a serious leak was discovered about 10 feet before the Main Mast in wake of a timber below the bends, this with two others caused her to make 18 inches water pr hour, and the break of her deck and three Butts in her sides coming near together the vessel worked much in those parts.

On 6th March we Anchored at Otaheite. we was induced to Stopp here to recruit our Stock of water and Provisions as well to get two Strong pieces Timber, to bolt along the Gunwales, to the beams over the break of the deck. on the Evening of this day the Sandwich Islanders deserted from us, all except 2 -

On the 10th we sailed for Huhaine, to compleat our stock of Hogs, and Yams, not being able to procure a Sufficient quantity here - having Careened the Ship and Stopped the leaks, filled up our water, and procured two Strong Pieces of Timber to bolt over the break of the deck. by the assistance of the brittish Missioneries resident on this Island. with whom I left the following letter for Mr. Teast.

No 19. Nautilus off Otaheite 12 March 1798

Dr Sir, I write now to inform you that we arrived off these Islands a few days ago, last from the Sandwich Islands, and are now proceeding for Masafuera, agreeable to the letter I wrote you from Kamschatka which I hope by this time you have recieved, as all the vessels had left the Sandwich Islands bound to China before we arrived I did not leave a letter for you there, but think it highly necessary to do so now, as you will percieve from the following brief narrative of our proceedings Since leaving Kamschatka., we sailed from thence 10 October and on the 14th. where overtaken by the most terrible Storm, the oldest Seamen on board ever knew. in this we suffered so much, by loosing the rail, Stantion, bulwark, Caboose, Guns and an Anchor which where Swept away by a Sea breaking over us. the Gunwales and Sides rent open in Several places, that we thought it necessary to attempt to regain the Harbr. of St Peter and Paul, to Save the vessel, but we tried in vain, for after beating 11 days against an almost continuual Gale of wind, in which our Sails and rigging suffered

[Page 62]
So much and the greatest part of the crew becoming Sick by the Extreme Severity of the weather, that it became necessary to get to the Southd: and we accordingly bore away to refitt the vessel at the Sandwich Islands. - We arrived there 1st December, and after getting the bulwark repaired and the sides caulked, we Sailed on this Sealing Exhibition Wednesday 31 Jany, having staid at those Islands no longer than possibly we could help to get the vessel repaired and our Stock of water and Provisions recruited, in our passage to these Islands we found the vessel leaked again - these leaks have been discovered and we anchored in Mateavy bay on purpose to Stopp them, which we have in a great measure done, but here we lost 5 of our crew by desertion and found it absolutely necessary to get out again which we did last night.

The Situation of the vessel is such now that if any more misfortunes occur, I am much afraid that we shall be obliged to relinquish the Expidition - Harressed and oppressed as I have been with anxiety and distress, I have only to add at present, that when a favourable opportunity offers I will write you a more particular account of all my proceedings, and the Journal and Accounts of the voyage shall be carefully conveyed to you

I leave this letter in the hands of the Brittish missioneries resident on this Island who have been settled about 12 Months here. they behaved Exceedingly kind to us, and have been the means of preventing the villian King and his people from attacking us while in the bay Kareening

Should any more misfortunes overtake us, we shall proceed to Port Jackson, where every thing I can possibly do for the Good of your concern Shall be done - but hoping that I may be yet Successful enough to procure 15000 or 20000 Seal Skins

I remain Yr Most Obdt Humb. Servt: Chas: Bishop

On the 24th March we anchored again in Mattavy bay, Otaheite, having been driven from Huaheine by a Strong Westly Gale of wind, without accomplishing the purpose of our going there, in which time Several of our Sails where Splitt to pieces, the leaks opened afresh, and the weak state of the vessel became so apparent, that it appeared absolutly necessary to go to some port, where she could be repaired, and Port Jackson was deemed the most proper place for that purpose. The Crew Indeed! was unwilling to proceed so far with her, and two of them Stole off in the night with our only boat.

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The King having meditated a plan to Cutt off the Missionries, for the sake of their property, Soon as we Should Sail, and had already committed hostilities on part of them who went to Endeavour to recover our boat and People, they all met in Council and the Majority resolved, if we would take them on board, to leave the Island and go with us to Port Jackson, agreeing to draw bills on the directors of the Missionery Society, for the Expences which would arise for their Passage, and it having been our intention, previous to leaving the Society Islands to lay in Such a Stock of Provisions, as would prevent the necessity of our purchasing much at Pt Jackson, where of course we Expected it would be dear. we agree'd to take them on Condition they should pay the difference of Price between buying them here and at Port Jackson and work their passage down in the vessel. and on 29th March we recieved on board 11 men 4 Women 4 Children with all their Cloths and Effects, and on 31st: we got under way and Sailed our Anchor being hooked to a rock we unfortunately parted the Cable and lost it, and put to Sea, Harressed and opressed in mind with a Leaky Ship & with only one Anchor - on the 8th: April a Rupture of a blood vessel in my stomach which continnued, with intermissions of a few hours, four days, had very nigh put a period to my sufferings and life together. however it happily Stopped on the 12th: and in the course of a few weeks I became pretty well, - on the 14th May we arrived Safe at Port Jackson, the vessel making about 2 feet water pr hour.

The next day being 15th May, I signified to Richd Atkins Esq: deputy Judge Advocate, for the Colony, that we should Protest as to the necessity of our coming to Port Jackson, and on the 18th. the Following Protest and general Statement of the voyage, was made by myself Officers & Part of the Crew.

Protest Barque Nautilus

By this Public instrument of Protest, be it known unto all Men who shall see these presents, that on 18th day of May, in year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninty Eight, Before me, Richd Atkins Esquire His Majestys Acting Judge Advocate of the Territory of New South Wales and

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its dependencies, Personally appeared Mr Charles Bishop, Master of the Barque Nautilus now lying in Sidney Cove in Port Jackson in the Territory aforesaid, Roger Simpson, Coagent, Robert Sutherland, Chief Officer, John Harbottle, Second officer, George McClay, Carpenter, William Sparks and Robert Hinch Seamen, who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangilist of Almighty God, did Solemnly depose to be true, the Sundry matters and things, hereafter mentioned in this Instrument of Protest, vizt.

That the Barque Nautilus commanded by Charles Bishop, together with Roger Simpson Factor and CoAgent, Robert Sutherland Chief Officer, John Harbottle 2nd Officer, George McClay Carpenter and William Sparks and Robert Hinch Seamen, part of the Crew consisting altogether of 23 in Number, arm'd with the Carrige Guns, 4 Swivall Muskettoons with Small Accnt for Each Man, well stored with Provisions and Two Months water at one Gallon pr day Each Man, together with an investment of Sundry goods amounting to the Sum of Three thousand nine hundred Spanish Dollars, and reckoned Equal to the purchase of Fifteen hundred Sea Otter Skins from the Native Indians if the North-west coast of America.

That we Sailed on our voyage for that Coast, from Macao the 16th day June 1797 in Company with the Hon'ble East India Company fleet and under Convoy of His Majestys Ship Swift, bound through the Straits of Luconnia and Formosa.

That on Monday the 19th. being in the China Sea we had a very heavy Typhoon, or Gale of wind, in which we parted Company with the fleet, and on Wednesday the 22d. the Fore mast was discovered so badly Sprung, that it appeared a matter of wonder to us it had not gone by the board, about 10 feet above deck. the Sails being taken in, a indecipherable topmast for want of other Sufficient wood, was converted into a fish, and the mast being secured in the best possible manner, about noon the following day we made Sail again. -

That it was not untill Thursday 29 June we had crossed the China Sea and reached the South point of the Island Formosa where we anchored in a Sandy bay for the purpose of fitting up the Empty water Casks, and the boat was dispatched with an Empty Cask to a Proper place, which they did about one and a half miles from the Ship. there being however a considerable Surf the boat was Anchored just within it and about 50 yards from the Shore, the People were not enabled to carry any Arms on Shore dry, and not seeing any Native, took only the Cask with Bucketts to fill it, they had began on their business when they were Suddenly attacked by a Party of Indians, who fired many Musketts and persued the people into the water - Captain Bishop being near the boat soon got on board her, and with the boat-keeper fired on the Natives and covered the retreat of the boats Crew, who all reached the boat, but Mr John

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Harbottle second mate was wounded by a ball fracturing his knee and had also an arrow thrown into his back. - That from this hostile behaviour it was found impractiable to fill up our water here, and returning on board the boat was hoisted in, and we began to get under-weigh, where to our farther misfortune the anchor had hooked a Rock and the breeze beginning to fail, fearful of the wind coming in from Sea, it was Judged prudent to cutt the Cable, which we did, and lost the Small Bower Anchor with Eighteen fathoms of Coir Cable.

That we proceeded on our voyage to the North East having put the whole Crew to an allowance of Two Quarts of water pr Day Each man. and that on Monday the 3d July we met with a very heavy Typhoon or Storm which lasted forty eight hours, in which the vessel Suffered very much, and made a good deal of water, a heavy Sea falling on the Starboard fore Chainwall, broke it down, Stove in the bulwark and Stantions on the Starbd bow and rent the Gunwales open about 10 feet, by wearing the Ship before the wind immediately and getting on the other tack we saved the foremast. on the Storm abating the Bowsprit was found to be Sprung, just without the Rigging, which being secured we made Sail again to the NEt.

That from Wednesday the 5th July being then in the Latitude 22°.30 N 126 degrees East Longitude, untill Tuesday 1st Day of August, we met with a Series of Light winds, Calms and dry Sultry weather and was not able to arrive only to 31 Degree of North Latitude and 147 degree East Longitude, in which period we had little or no rain and was enabled to catch only 15 Gallons rain water, so that our whole Stock was reduced, owing to leakage to 270 Gallons, and the crew was now put to an allowance of three pints pr Day Each man. That on Friday the 4th August it was thought proper to enter the following note in the Log Book. "Going NEerly is more to the North than we Should Steer but for the following reasons, we have now been out from Macao 49 days, and have not been able to Catch more than 70 Gallons rain water, our whole Stock being laid in there at 23 Gallons pr Day 2 Months or 1380 Gallons - after we were prevented by the hostile behaviour of the Natives of Formosa, from filling up our water, the allowance was lessened to 14 Gallons pr Day for the whole Crew., That from leaking of the Casks our whole Stock is now reduced to Eighteen days water at 3 pints pr Man Each day, the Fire wood is also become Scarce, The Foremast and bowsprit being badly Sprung, These together with the forlorn State of the 2nd Officer, who was wounded by the Natives of Formosa and who is in such ill State that unless Surgical Assistance is soon procured for him, will in all probability perish - These accumulated reasons

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"Induce the undersigned to keep in a Direction for Awatska Bay in Kamschatka for the purpose of deriving that assistance and repair these necessities require.

Signed "Chas Bishop & R Simpson"

That on the 25th of Augst. we arrived at that Port having when we anchored only 3 Gallons Fresh water on board

That on Sunday the 8th October the vessel was again refitted and ready for Sea, having had the foremast out and newly and Strongly fished, and a new Bowsprit made out of a Mast beloning to the Russian Kings Ship Discovery, which the Govr was indicated to Spare us together with an Anchor 3 Cwt and 108 fathoms new Thirteen Inch Cable - new fore Channels was made, and the vessel caulked all round, the Copper Sheathings mended where broke, the Rigging and Sails refitted, 1600 Gallons fresh water taken on board with 3 months fireing, and a Protest of these proceedings since leaving China, was made and Certified by the Russian Govr: Major Chavalier Sheamcliff and was inclosed in a letter to Sidenham Teast Esq. Mercht in Bristol and which the Govr Promised to forward to Petersberg the ensuing winter

That the winter being about to Commence it was judged prudent, and for the interest of the Concern to relinquish going to the Coast of America this Season, but to proceed from hence to the Sandwich Islands, and after procuring refreshments, and an addition of Six natives to the crew to proceed on to the Island of Masafuera in the South Pacific Ocean to kill and Dry Seals Skins, during the winter Months in the Northern Hemisphere, not doubting but that we Should have been Enabled to procure at the least Fifteen Thousand Skins meaning to return to the Coast of America in the following Summer and from thence to China.

That Such being our intentions We Sailed from Awatska bay Monday 9th October and proceeded on our voyage That on the night of Friday the 13th. the most terrible Storm arose, oldest Seamen on board ever knew commencing at South East and veering gradually round by the South to West, in which the indecipherable where Splitt to Ruins, a heavy Sea Struck us and broke in the rail Stantions and Bulwark from the fore of the Main rigging on the Larbd Side, Splitt open the Shear Plank and caused the vessel to make a good deal of water, one Pump being kept constantly going. at 5 oclock on Saturday Morning, the Sea raged in the most

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Tremendous manner, and an exceeding heavy one falling on board entirely Swept away the rails Stantions and bulwarks from Both sides before the main Mast, together with the Caboose barrocade and one Brass three Pounder, Stove the boat rent open the Gunwales almost fore and aft and Started the Plank in Several places in the Sides from the Timbers

That in consequence of the damages done by these heavy Seas the vessel leaked so much that Both Pumps would hardly free her, in this Situation it was judged prudent to Cutt up and throw overboard all the Spare Spars and to clear the decks and main Hatchway office wood to be ready to bale out water if necessitated the Small Bower Anchor being over the bows and the Seas making a Clean Sweep over the decks it was deemed impossible to save it and it was both the Spare pump geer having been brought upon deck to be at hand was swept overboard too, at noon on Saturday the decks being cleared and the Carpenter having nailed leather over the worst parts in the Gunwales, one pump constantly going kept her free -

That on Sunday 15th the gale having abated very little and the Distressing State of the vessel being so great the following note was entered in the Log Book - "In consequence of the Damages Sustained in this terrible Gale it appears absolutely necessary to the undersigned to return to the harbour of St Peter and Paul in Awatska bay, for the preservation of the vessel Cargo and lives of the Crew" - (vide page 119)

Signed Chas Bishop & R Simpson

That in consequence of this determination we tried every means in our power against an Almost continual gale of wind to Effect it untill Tuesday 24th. but without Success, on that day in a heavy Snow Storm, as we attempted to Clew up the frozen Sails to heave the vessel too, the Clewlines gave way and we nigh lost our best suit of Sails, fearful of such an Event taking place, although we where not more than 60 Leagues from the Port, it was judged prudent to give up the Attempt and bear away for the Sandwich Islands when the following note was Entered in the Log Book

"From the great severity of the weather, the State of the Crew, nearly half of whom are Sick and the danger of loosing our sails it appears to us and every person on board impracticable to regain our wish'd for Port, and altho' the Sandwich Islands from the wrecked state of the vessel is by no means a desirous or safe place for refitting yet it is the only one in our distress which offers without giving up the voyage and returning to Macao. we have now been 11 days Attempting to regain

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the Harbour of St Peter and Paul without advancing nearer to it than what a ship in the usual course of winds and Sailing might be expected to do in one days beating and the weather still continnuing bad, with little hope of changing for the better at this inclement Season, together with the inability of the vessel to beat against these Severe Storms, that the undersigned are induced to give up the attempt and bear away for the Sandwich Islands."
(Signed) Chas Bishop & Roger Simpson

That it was not untill Ist December we arrived at the Island Owhyhee one of the Sandwich Islands our passage having been much retarded by the inability of the vessel in her wrecked State to bear the quantity of Sail we should otherwise have carried - that on Friday 8th we anchored in Karakakooka bay in that Island where began to refitt the vessel, Employing an European Carpenter resident on the Island with four or 5 native Carpenters, also a Party of Natives under the direction of 2 Europeans also resident on the Island to Hew plank Stantions and rails and the Kings Smith to repair the old and make new Spare Pump Geer with nails and other Iron work.

That on Sunday 24 December having been informed that otter Skins could not be bought on the Coast of America last Season under two fathems of Cloth Each and in other articles proportionally dear the undersigned Commander and Agent thought it good for the concern to make the following resolve and which is Entered in the log Book for that day, vizt ("Having heard that otter skins are so advanced in their price on the Coast of America, that with our investment after paying the vessels Expences here, we should not perhaps be able to procure more than 6 or 7 hundred Skins, and having Several people on board aquainted with the Sealing buisness one of whom has been to the Island Masafuera when in about 5 months they killed and dried 35000 Seal Skins, the undersigned think it good to proceed as before our misfortunes of Kamschatka they intended to that Island and procure 20000 Seal Skins, as soon as the vessel can possibly be got ready, and relinquish going to the Coast of America altogether.

Signed "Charles Bishop & R. Simpson"

That in consequence of this determination every exertion was made to get the vessel ready and by 2d Jany 1798 new Stantions rails and Bulwarks was fixed Strongly round the vessel, the sides bends and gunwalls caulked, the rigging &

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all Sails refitted, two Cannoes purchased to aid bringing off the Skins from the Island to the vessel and 5 Sandwich Islanders taken on board in addition to the Crew, Several of whom vizt Alexr Dobson, Boatswain, Saml Reid, Gunner, John Bartlett and one Cruiz Seamen, having behaved in a Mutinous and disorderly manner, refusing their Duty and by their Conduct setting a bad Example to the rest of the Crew where discharged and turned on shore and three other Seamen Shipped in their room, that on the night of the 2d Janwary we Sailed for the Island Mowee to fill up our water and afterwards to Owhahoo and Attooi to compleat our Stock of Provisions and finally left the Sandwich Islands 31 Jany keeping to the SEt as much as the winds would permitt

That the Goods Expended in the Equipment and repair of the vessel at the Sandwich Islands amounted to the Sum of Two hundred dollars or thereabout at invoice price of the Investment - (Exclusive of Provisions) (vide Page 121)

That on Sunday 25 day Feb being in Latt 7°40' S and 212 East Long. a Serious leak was discovered about 10 feet before the mainmast on the Starbd side in the wake of a Timber, this leak with two others (one on Each bow) had commenced Since leaving the Sandwich Islands, and the vessel made 18 Inches water in two hours - and the vessel had been found very weak in the break of the Quarter deck it opening and Shutting very alarmingly with the motion and which is believed to have been caused by the force of the heavy Seas falling on her off Kamschatka 14 Octr 1797 as Several of the bolts was found broken Short off, and that in Consequence it was judged prudent to touch at the Island Otaheite then lying nearly in our rout, for the purpose of getting two Strong Peices of timber as riders along the Gunwales over the break of the deck to be fastened to the beams and Stantions, and also to Careen the vessel to try and Stopp the leaks, that we arrived at Otaheite Tuesday 6 March and found a Society of Brittish Missioneries resident there who had arrived from England about 12 months before for the purpose of converting the natives to Christianity. these people kindly assisted us in Supplying our wants and in watering and getting the vessel ready for sea we recieved from them two pieces of Timber suitable to the above purpose of Securing the Break of the deck, Some Bolts nails and Carpenters tools, and having Stopped the leaks we Sailed Saturday 10th intending as Hogs was scarce at that Island to touch at Huhainu for a Supply of them and Yams. Five of the Sandwich Islanders deserted from us at Otaheite and no inducement we could offer the King was Sufficient to get

[Page 70]
them restored - owing to light baffling winds we did not arrive off the Island Huhainu untill 16th which day was Spent in making bargains with the Chiefs, who where to have brought off the Hogs and vegetables the day following, but a heavy Gale of wind commencing in the night from the North West prohibited any farther Intercourse with the natives and this gale continued with unabated Fury untill Tuesday 20th in which time the leaks that had been caulked at Otaheite opened afresh and the break of the deck worked so alarmingly, that it appeared Evident to all on board the vessel in her present State is unfitt and unsafe to Encounter the voyage to Masafuera dureing the winter Months now Commencing, and the Storm having driven us in Sight of Otaheite, it was judged prudent to repair thither again and Stop the leaks as we should be able to Careen the vessel in Matavy bay under the protection of the Society of Miss'ies without much danger of the natives attacking us in that Situation. We anchored there Sunday Evening 24 March. on that night two Seamen, viz Michl McDonald & Thos Reidson Stole the only boat we had and deserted the vessel. the boat was recovered again the next day from the Natives by the Missioneries who also Sent a Deputation to the King to demand the deserters, but the natives Seized the Deputation, Stripped them naked and almost Murdered them, and which in all probability would have been Effected if the Kings father had not interfered and Saved their lives. That it appearing too great a risque of the vessel cargo and Lives of the Crew to proceed farther on the voyage to Masafuera untill the Ship could be repaired it was resolved for the Interest of the Concern by the Commander and Agent, to proceed to Port Jackson in N.S Wales and repair the vessel there during the winter months in the Southern Hemisphere and take such farther steps as the necessity of the case should require. that this Step having been previously resolved on an application by the Society of Missioneries, as they concieved their lives Eminently in Danger from a proposed Attack of the natives that we would recieve them and their families on board and as much of their effects as we could convienently and with Safty of the vessel carry, agreeing that they would make good any Extrodinary Expense of Provisions &c which our recieving them on board and conveying them to Port Jackson might occasion, which we acceeded to as well on the Score of Humanity as a return to the kindness we had previously recieved from them, and on Friday 30th March

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The Society, consisting of 11 men 4 women 4 Children with all their Effects we could carry where on board and Saturday morning we began to get underweigh but the anchor unfortunately hooked a rock and we parted the Cable, it appearing impossible to recover it as our only Boat was Stove without assistance from the Natives which we were ashured we could not ottain, and the weather wearing an unsettled appearance it was Judged prudent not to risque the loss of the other Anchor or farther accident, and we therefore made Sail for Port jackson leaving the Anchor and about fifteen fathoms Cable lost,

That having fitted two strong pieces of Timber along the gunwales over the break of the deck and bolted them strongly to the beam and top timbers, we proceeded with fav'ble winds and weather and arrived Safe at Port Jackson on Monday 14 May 1798 -

That the undersigned Commander Agent Officers Carpenters and Seamen mean to reifer and Protest from the related Circumstances of the voyage that the Cause of our relinquishing the voyage to the NW Coast of America and putting into Kamschatska arose -

First the Bad weather in Springing the fore Mast and thereby retarding the passage across the China Sea, again on the third of July the damages the vessel Sustained in this heavy Gale in rendering leaky and Springing the Bowsprit

Secondly, having become Short of water arising by the protracted passage by bad weather, the hostile behaviour of the natives of Formosa in preventing our filling up our water there and the dry Sultry Calm weather we afterwards Experienced and leakage of the water casks, so that when we anchored at Kamschatska we had but three or four Gallons fresh water on board

And that after repairing and refitting the vessel as Related at Kamschatska, the distress and failure of our intended voyage to Masafuera arose

First from the dreadful Storms which took place on Friday 13 October and 3 days following in which the vessel became a wreck -

Secondly, her lengthened passage afterwards to the

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Sandwich Islands, our detention amongst them in repairing, the ill behaviour of part of the Crew together with the insufficiency of repair we could there obtain

And that the inability of the vessel to perform the voyage did not appear until we had proceeded so far on it that this port became the nearest as well as the most Eligible place to repair the vessel in that we knew of

And that against the aforesaid Gales of wind and Bad weather &c they the aforesaid deponants do hereby most solemnly protest

In Testimony of the Truth they the aforesaid deponants have subscribed their names, Thus done and Protested at Sidney in New South Wales on the day and year above written

Signed. Chas Bishop, Roger Simpson, Robt Sutherland, John Harbottle, Geo McClay, Wm Sparks (Mark), Robt Hinch (Mark)

Sworn before me at Sidney in New South Wales this 18 May 1798
Signed Richd Atkins, Actg. Judge Advocate

Report of a Survey held at Sidney 19th May 1798 on the Barque Nautilus by Messrs. Thos Moore, master Builder of the Kings yard, Geo McClay Carpenter, Charles Bishop Master and Roger Simpson Co-Agent and 2d Command, all of the Said vessel who are unanimous in opinion, that before the Nautilus can be put into a fitt state to proceed to sea on her voyage it is necessary to give her the following repairs and Equipment-, vizt:

To shift about 20 feet plank on Each side and fill up two midship ports in the between decks -
To putt 16 new knees to the beams which were formerly knee'd with Iron and were broken or insufficient -
To putt a new Breast hook below the lower deck
To seal the hold with Inch board and the insides between the decks with 2 Inch plank -
To Ripp off all the torn Copper sheathing from the middle upwards between the Keel and Wales. Caulk the bottom and sheath it with Inch Cederboard to Caulk and pay it, and mend the remaining sheathing of Copper
To Caulk the upper works and Decks
To fitt new Channels fore and aft
To fix a Capstern - and make new Pumps
To make new Combings to the Hatches, new hatches & Companions
To putt new Shear plank on the Gunwalls, New Stantions & Bulwarks
To build two new boats -
To Repair & Refitt the Rigging & sails
To repair the water Casks -
To Procure two bower anchors and a Cable
Now to the Truth &c &c &c Signed Thos Moore, Geo McClay
Charles Bishop, Roger Simpson Signed Witnesses Wm Cummings Peter Thompson

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By the Sales of the NW.investment we were enabled to commence the repair and Equipment of the vessel, and altho' Stores of every Denomination where Excessively dear, and Scarce, yet by the assistance generously granted to our request by Government, in supplying us with Pitch and other necessary stores not to be procured otherwise we were once more Enabled to put to Sea in a comfortable State 7th October 1798. - Previously, on the 20th Sept I wrote the following letter to Mr Teast by the Barwell bound to China & London

No. 20 to Sid Teast Esq. Mercht Bristol

Dear Sir - That the Nautilus should be here will no doubt awaken your Attention with forlorn Ideas as to the success of the voyage. the inclosed Copy of Protest which Contains the particulars of our proceedings since leaving China until our arrival here, will inform you fully on that Subject, and render any other relation, Except what has transpired since unnecessary -

On our Arrival, shattered and leaky as we were, we thought proper to have a survey on the vessel by the Master builder of the Kings yard, whose report I also inclose, as to the repairs necessary to render the vessel Sea worthy, which you will percieve were Considerable, and to do it we have been under the necessity of disposing of the North west investment in addition to 270£ we recieved from the missioneries for con- veying them from Otaheite to Port Jackson an Account of whom you Can peruse in a letter inclosed for the Directors of their Society left open for that purpose, which I beg you will be so good to inclose and send to them

Agreeable to the builders opinion and advice we have given the vessel a thorough repair, and she is in every respect as to her hull much Stronger than ever she has been before, but as work of this kind is Excessive dear, it has so far Exceeded our purse, that we have been under the necessity of taking up 200£ from Captain John Cameron of the Barwell now going to China for bills of Ex: drawn on Jas Drummond Esq at 5/- pr Dollar which we trust he will honour, in the ashurence of our being in China in 7 or 8 months with a large Cargo of Dry Seals Skins

From the Commander and Sad remains of the Crew of the ship Sidney Cove of Bengal, who where obliged to run their Ship on Shore after doubling the South Cape of New Holland to Save their lives, we learn that the Islands thereabout abounds with Fur Seals, and it is our intentions to proceed from here about the 25th of this month for those parts with a Strong crew of 25 men and two whale boats to kill and dry skins for China, and boil out Seal oil for this markett, pro- posing first to secure the Ship in a good Harbour and then divide the People in Seperate Parties, to the different Islands, under the command of myself and officers,

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keeping a few of the Crew boiling oil which we expect to procure to the quantity of 3 or 4000 Gallons and which will doubtless sell here well at least 5/- pr Gall perhaps more, and it is further proposed that when we have got about 2000 Galls and 10,000 Skins to leave 2/3 of the Crew under the officers and proceed here with both articles we have procured, Sell the Oil, and lodge the Skins as so much property Secured, then take in a fresh Stock of Provisions and return to the Seal Islands the distance not being more than 3 or 4 days Sail, and then to Employ the time untill the end of Feby when we propose Sailing direct to China from hence - and should we be so fortunate, which with ashurence we have every reason to expect, to procure a double Cargo of Seals Skins, as the Nautilus will not carry More than 25,000 to leave them in respectable hands here to send on to China by the first Ships for Teas-

Our Expences will amount I believe to about I200£ all of which we have been Enabled to pay out of the Money arising from the Sale of the NW Investment and the money we recieved from the missionaries Except the 2oo£ we have drawn for on Mr Drummond and great part of this Expence has been incurred for Settling the wages of the former Crew, which is more than 2/3ds paid and the present Crew being on Shares, no farther Expence will be incurred on that head, the whole hire of the Crew amounts to about 35 pCt -

I trust yet to be able to render our Melancholly voyage if not successful at least a saving one - & inclose to you the attested Copy of the protest & report of the Survey. and shall by the next opportunity send you the Cost of Equipment - my letter from Kamschatka you probably before this have recieved -

I beg you Sir! to accept my sincere prayers for your health and I hope to be with you in 12 or 14 months and be ashured Sir! I shall always conduct myself with Integrity and Zeal.

Being Dr Sir your Much Obligd Obd Servt. Chas Bishop -
Pt Jackson 17 Sept 1798

a Similar letter was written to Jas Drummond Esq. for the Information of Mr Conseequa - CB

Articles of Agreement made and Entered into Between the Master officers Seamen and mariners of the Brig Nautilus whereof Charles Bishop is at present master, now lying in Sidney Cove in Port Jackson in His Majestys territory called New South Wales, and bound from thence to certain Islands and Places in the Pacific Ocean in quest of a Cargo of Seals Skins, and having procured such Cargo to proceed to Macao or Canton in China where, on 24 hours after the Sale and Delivery of the Said Cargo, the voyage Shall cease and end and the Parties to these presents, having fully performed their duty agreeable to tenor and meaning of these articles shall be intitled to Such Share of the neat proceeds, as against each respective name Shall be affixed on Signing these presents, and which is to be considered, recieved and taken in lieu of Monthly or other pay and Emolument whatsoever -

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And the Parties to this agreementt for themselves respectively herein and hereby covenant promise and agree to and with the Said master that in consideration of the above mentioned Share against each Officer Seaman and Mariners name respectively hereunto set They severally share and will perform the voyage which is to commence from the time of signing these articles, and the said Master does hereby covenant agree and Engage and hire the Said Officers Seamen and Mariners for the Said voyage at the Said Specified Share to be paid persuent to the Laws of Great Brittain.

And the Said Officers Seamen and Mariners do hereby promise and Engage and oblige themselves to do and perform their Duty and Obey all lawful commands of the aforesaid Master and the Officers of the Said Brig or the boats thereunto belonging or on Shore untill the voyage is Compleat and Ended, to demean themselves in all things and upon all occasions with respect, as becomes good and faithful Seamen and Mariners, and that at all places where the Said brig shall put in and anchor at during the said voyage to do their best Endeavour, and be at all times Active and Zealous for the preservation of the Said brig and cargo and not to omit or neglect to do their Duty by day or by night, or go out of the Said vessel on board any other, or on Shore on any pretence whatsoever without leave of the Master or Commanding Officer first had and obtained, or in default thereof that they will not only Severally and respectively be liable to the penalities mentioned and declared in an Act of Parliament made and Passed in the 2d Year of the reign of King George 2d - intitles an act for the better regulation and Government of Seamen in the Merchants Service but do farther Engage and bind themselves in Case they or any of them, should, on any account whatever leave or desert the Said Brig without the Masters Consent untill the aforesaid voyage be concluded and finished, and the Said brig be unladen that they and Each and Every of them, so deserting, Shall forfeit One hundred Spanish Dollars with all and Singular their Wages or Share, Goods and Chattels on board, renouncing for Ever by these presents for themselves their Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, all right and tittle thereto, and it is farther understood and agree'd by and between the Said Officers Seamen and Mariners, that 48 hours absence without leave from the Said brig is & shall be deemed a Total Desertion to all intents and purposes, and will Subject the Party or Parties so offending to the aforesaid Penaltys - And Farther That any Person or Persons parties to these presents who shall plunder or Embezzle the Cargo or Stores or any part thereof belonging to the Said brig shall incur and become liable to all the penalties herein before specified.

And moreover it is agreed by and

[Page 76]
between all the Parties subscribing these presents, that if it should at any time appear in the opinion of the majority of the Crew on board the Said brig that any person or persons Shall be indolent, Slothful or Idle, and not perform his or their proper task share or proportion of work in a suitable and Seamanlike manner, that then the Said Majority so deciding shall have power by and with the aprobation and Concent of the Master or Commander, to fine such offending person or persons in such Sum or Sums of money not Exceeding his or their full Share or proportions of the proceeds of the said voyage as shall be deemed proper and Expedient, by the Commander and Majority of the Said Crew, and which fine or Mulct, shall be equally divided between the rest of the Crew who shall be found to do their duty Dilligently and faithfuly - And it is further understood and agree'd by all the parties to these presents, that no Officer Seaman or Mariner shall demand or Expect his or their share or Proportion, in Skins - but the whole shall be sold and disposed of together by the Said Master or Such person as he shall appoint to sell and dispose of them, and Each person paid his Share or proportion according to the rates affixed to Each name respectively. Oil and every other article obtained in the voyage, Except Ship Stores and Provisions, shall be considered as Cargo, and Each person to be intitled to their Share or Proportion of the Proceeds of the Same - And the Said Officers Seamen & Mariners do hereby Covenant Contract and agree with the Said Master that in Case of his the Said Masters death or incapacity they will well and Truly Obey in Manner and form, and under all and Singular the Penalties herein before Specified and set forth. Roger Simpson Coagent and factor of the Said Brig as Master thereof, the Said Roger Simpson in Such Event becoming liable to the payment of all Shares, proportions or other just and Legal Claims and dues in like manner as the Said Charles Bishop the present Master of the Said Brig hath hereby contracted and Engaged to be - And Lastly for the due performance of the premices, and in Testimony thereof we the Said Commander Officers and Seamen and Mariners have hereunto Subscribed and sett our Names or Marks the month and day against our Said Names affixed and in the year of our Lord 1798.

(For Names Entry Share and Discharged See Page 138)

[Page 77]
(138) List of the Crew of the Nautilus who signed Articles
Entry - Names - Station or Quality - Shares - Discharge &
6 October 98 - Charles Bishop - Master - 4 pCt Com - Dischd 15 Sept 1799
Do - Roger Simpson - Co Agent - 4 pCt Com - Dischd 15 September I799
Do - Robt Sutherland - Ist Officer - 1/30th - Dischd for Mutinous Conduct
Do - John Harbottle - 2d Officer - 1/3Oth - China 15 Sept 99
Do - George McClay - Carpenter 1/75th - Do - 13 Sept 99
17 Sept 98 - James Miln - Able Seamn - 1/100th - Do -13 Sept 99
30 August 98 - James Cordell - Do - 1/100th - Do - 13 Sept 99
17 Sept 98 - George Appelton - Do - 1/100th - Do - 13 Sept 99
30 Augt 98 - Danl Cooper - Do 1/100th - Cape Barren
Do - Willm Mackey -Do - 1/100th - China 13 Sept 99
Do - John Ash Smith -Do - 1/100th - Do - 13 Sept 99
Do - Joseph Oliphent -Do - 1/100th - Cape Barren
6 Oct 98 - Willm Sparks - Do - 1/12Oth - Cape Barren
30 Aug 98 - Edwd Hogan - Do - 1/120th - Died 11 Decr 98 at C Barren
Do - John Steward - Do - 1/12Oth - Run Port Jackson
Do - Thos Lee - Do - 1/12Oth - Dischd Port Jackson 31 Oct 98
Do - Hugh Doughertey - Do - 1/120th - Do Do 27 May 99
Do - Saml Clews - Do - l/12Oth - China 13 Sept 99
6 October 98 - Robt Hinch - Do - 1/120th - Dischd C Barren
Do - William Baker - Ordy Sean - 1/140th - China - 13 Sept 99
Do - George Shedrick - Cook - 1/14Oth - Dischd Sick Pt Jackson 3 Jany 99
Do - Thos Lythgo - Ordy Sean - 1/14Oth - China 13 Sept 99
Do - Michl Murphy - Do - 1/15Oth - Dischd Do 27 May 99
Do - Stephen Lawless - Do - 1/15Oth - Do Do 27 May 99
1 Sep 98 - Charles Wood - Do 1/15Oth - China 13 Sept 99
6 Octo 98 - Saml R Chase - Able Sea - 1/80th - Cape Barren
6 Octo - Boxo of Bengal - ordy Sea - 6 Dr p/Mo - Port Jackson 25 May 99
Do - Chinese Taylor - Taylor - 8 Drs p/Mo - China 31 Augst 99
Do - Amowee Chinese - boy - 4 Drs p/Mo - China Do
Do - Namahama - San Isldr - 6 Drs p/Mo - China 13 Sept 99
Do - Oneehehow - Do - 6 Drs p/Mo - Do - Do -
31 Decr 98 - Wm Smith Bradlee - Able Sean - 1/100th - Do - Do -
12 Jany 99 - George King - Ordy - 1/14Oth - Port Jackson 27 May 99

Entd 28 May - Wm Roberts, John Rogers, Joseph Cowdry, Willm Morice, George Shedrick - Volunteers for the passage to China - Dischd in China with the rest of the crew

[Page 78]
With much difficulty we at length put to sea 7th October in better condition than I had expected, and in a fortnight arrived at Cape Barren Island where we found Fur Seals pretty abundant and by the 2Oth Decr we had procured near 5000 Skins with about 350 Gallons oil, when it appearing we should not have provisions for the whole Crew more than a month, we resolved to Proceed to Port Jackson with what Cargo we had already Collected and take in a Fresh Supply, leaving 14 Able hands under the Command of that Excellent Officer Mr John Harbottle to collect Skins while the vessel should be absent - and as a farther encouragement for them to be diligent and attentive to their Duty, We agree'd to give them an additional half Share for all the Skins and oil they should collect - we arrived at Pt. Jackson 25th. and by the 5 Jany were again ready to putt to Sea - the following letter was left to be sent on Should any opportunity offer to Mr Teast at Bristol -

No 21 - Nautilus Port Jackson 4 Jany 1799

Dr Sir - In my letter to you by the ship Barwell 17 September 1798 then bound to China I informed you by the inclosed protest of the untoward Events of my voyage, and the distresses which had arisen and brought us to seek Shelter and repair at this Port, and of my intentions to proceed to the Southd along this coast in quest of a Cargo of Seal Skins which I am happy to say will most probably be accomplished by the latter end of March - we sailed from hence the 7th October in Company with a small vessel fitted out by Governor Hunter to Explore the Southern parts of this immense Island, and arrived Safe at the Port of our desire in about a fortnight, where I had the happiness to find the Fur Seal of the best quality in such numbers that we could average 200 Skins a day - unluckily however there is no harbour nearer to their place of resort than one from 20 to 30 miles distant, where we Moor'd and Sicured the vessel - we continnued Sealing unto 12 Decr and recd on board 5200 Skins 3/4 of which is of the best quality, when provisions beginning to grow Short - for owing to the great Expence we had been at refitting and repairing the vessel, I could not lay in but 4 Months Provisions and having a Stout Crew, I judged it prudent to leave two months provisions with 2d officer and 14 Chosen men of the Crew, and proceed back to Port Jackson with the Skins we have procured, and also 300 Gallons oil - I had hoped to have gott 2000 Galls - which Selling here for 5 or 6 Shillings pr Gallon, would have raised a Sufficient Sum to have defrayd all Expences, but owing to the distance of the vessel from the Sealers we found it work Enough to get the Cured Skins round to the ship at the intervals of fine weather - but I am still in hopes to accomplish even that part of my plan, by setting up the boilers where the seals are killed, and putting the oil into Casks, then when the Cargo is ready, go round with the vessel

[Page 79]
and Cruize off untill it is all on board. Believe me Sir! I spare no pains or Exertion either of Body or Mind to bring the difficulties I have encountered in this disasterous voyage to an happy issue. We arrived here Christmas day, we should indeed been up to the harbours mouth in 50 or 60 hours after we left the Sealers, but a strong North wind took us aback about 50 miles to Southd of the port, and kept us out so long, that the last provisions in the Ship, was served out to the Hungry crew as we entered the Harbours mouth - I have now laid in 5 months stock and are nearly ready to sail again - for these Supplys I am much indepted to Wm Kent Esq. Comr. His Maj Ship Supply - This Excellt person is Nephew to Govr Hunter, having perused the Sad and distressful Events in our Logbook He stepped forward with his whole influence, in our behalf - Stores of every Discripn. could not be procured for Money, the little there was in the Colony, was in the hands of Govt. He interested the Govr. and the worthy veteran seemed happy in assisting us - on my offering to settle with the Store keepers I was informed the Govr. only wished to have a bill upon you to pay for the articles at Such price the Navy board should think proper to Charge, probably bills that will not come to hand before I am in England, as he told me he would not send them till we had left the Coast for China and if they should 50£ will be I think the utmost amount - Capt Kent has again Stood my friend thro' him I have Obtained 5 months stock of dry Provisions and a Ton of Salt meat. This with Seals Asslett, Kangaroo and Wild Fowl, will I trust be Sufficient. Spirits now is very dear and we go intirely without Grog and have done so this 4 months. Mr Kent indeed now and then gives me a little wine - He has just been with me and desired me to Draw upon him for any sum I may want to pay for the Provisions and is Contented to take my note of Hand 'till I come back and If I should not procure a Sufficient Sum by the Sale of oil and Hair Skins to pay him, to accept a bill on Mr Conseequa for the Amount. I believe I shall owe him about 260£. He has been so good to suffer us to leave the 5000 skins we brought on board his Ship carefully stored and I have begd him should any ship arrive bound to China before we come back to send them on to Mr Drummond, not doubting from the Excellence of the Fur and the Smallness of the Cargo that they would in that Instance fetch 2 Drs pr Skin if not 3 - beside which we should be Enabled to carry a greater number in the Nautilus for I have scarcely a doubt of returning full or with 15000 more - Thus I hope shortly to finish my anxious concern, and after disposing of the Skins and vessel at China to remit home to you the proceeds, and return to settle my accounts and revisit you and my Dear friends, with a mind Enlightened by Experiences Nautical and Mercantile Knowledge of the Seas and Commerce of the great Pacific not doubting but that in one voyage of 2 years fitted out from England on the plan I shall have to propose, of redeeming all the failures of a sad 5 years adversity - I pray God that you have your health and that you are happy, and when I have the pleasure of seeing you, I trust and hope Sir you will judge of my conduct, not by the Success of my undertakings but by my Zeal integrity and perseverence - as no ship is here immediattly bound towards you I shall leave this letter in Hands of Capt Kent to forward by the first opportunity - whom I have beg'd also to write to you should he send on the skins that you may inshure if you think proper I think inshurence ought
to be low, as the passage is pretty well known and no fear of
meeting an Enemy.
I am Dr Sir & & & Chas Bishop

[Page 80]
Disbursments and Expences Repairing the Nautilus at Port Jackson.
[Table not transcribed
[Page 81]
Disbursments and Expences Equipping and Repairing the Nautilus at Pt. Jackson 1798
[Table not transcribed
[Page 82]
Table Continued from previous page [not transcribed
[Page 83]
Disbursments & Expences at Port Jackson 1798-9
[Table not transcribed
[Page 84]
Expences at Port Jackson fitting for China 1799 - and at Macao & Whampoa
[Table not transcribed
[Page 85]
Account of the Wages of the Crew of the Nautilus in her Voyage in the Pacific Ocean 1797.8.9
[Table not transcribed
[Page 86]
Table continued from previous page [not transcribed
[Page 87]
Abstract Account of the Crew of the Nautilus in her Sealing Voyage, with their Shares &c and Wages to Norfolk
[Table not transcribed
[Page 88]
Table continued from previous page [not transcribed
[Page 89]
D:s Brig Nautilus in Account Current Voyage in Pacific Ocean for Seal Skins
[Table not transcribed
[Page 90]
Table continued from previous page[Table not transcribed
[Page 91]
Agreement and Bond with Captam William Campbell: Freight to Norfolk Island-

Conditions of Agreement between Capt William Campbell of the Ship Rebecca and Capt Charles Bishop of the Brig Nautilus,
Article Ist: To Recieve onboard the Nautilus such goods as Capt Wm Campbell shall chuse to put on board her not Exceeding 50 Tons

2d - To convey with all possible dispatch the Said Goods to Norfolk Island and Land and dispose of them in Such manner as the agent appointed by Capt Campbell shall think proper at his risque & Expence

3d - Capt Bishop and Roger Simpson are not at liberty to Sell or Suffer to be Sold any article of their own, while there Shall be any of the Same denomination remaining unsold in the Investment of Capt Campbell, Except his agent Shall refuse to Sell such Article, Now the full meaning of this Article & Condition is, that in all things Capt Campbells agent shall have the first offer of the markett

4th. - All risques, dangers of the Sea or Enemy or other unavoidable accident happening to the Said investment Shall be wholly on account of Capt Wm Campbell

5th. For Conveying the Said investment to Norfolk Island Seven Landing days after the arrival of the Nautilus off that Island, Capt Bishop and Roger Simpson Shall be at liberty to draw from the agent of the Said Capt Campbell Five hundred Pounds Sterling to be paid in the Govt. bills of the Island or Such private bills as they Shall choose to accept, and Capt Campbell shall instruct his agent to pay Such Sum without any Deduction Whatever

6th. The Nautilus shall not be Obliged to remain off Norfolk Island more than Seven Landing days, altho' the whole of Capt Campbells investment Should not be Sold, and the Said Commander & Co Agent shall be at liberty to proceed back to Pt. Jackson -

[Page 92]
7th. It shall be Esteemed a landing day when the colours are hoisted at Either of the landing places for that purpose

8th. Capt Bishop shall be at full Liberty to freight his vessel back to Port Jackson in Such manner he shall think proper reserving room and proper Storage for any of Capt Campbells remaining investment, which Shall be brought back dangers of the Sea and Enemy Excepted, freight free

Now for the full performance of the within written Conditions and agreements the Parties Signing these Premises mutually bind each other in the penal sum of Two Thousand Pounds Sterling Money of Great Brittain

Signed Sealed and Ratified at Sidney in
His Majestys Territory of New South Wales this
18th day March 1799.in presence of the Subscribing
Witnesses -

Signed, Chas Bishop - Roger Simpson - William Campbell
(Signd) Philip Fergusson - Barthw Kent,

Articles of Agreement made and Entered into by the Commander Officers Seamen and Mariners of the Brig Nautilus - done at Sidney in New South Wales 16th March 1799.

Ist: That the persons signing these Articles shall proceed in their Several Stations as heretofore in the Said vessel, from hence to Norfolk Island, off which the Said vessel is to Cruize, untill a Cargo of Sundry Merchandize now about to be taken on board is there disposed off and from thence back to Port Jackson

3dly. The Commander doth hereby agree to pay or Cause to be paid Such Sum of Money as Shall be affixed against each respective Name hereunto sett on the vessels arrival

[Page 93]
at Port Jackson which is to be taken in the room of wages Shares or other Emolument. Provided always that the Ist and 2d Articles are fully complyed with and performed by the Said Officers Seamen and Mariners.

Now in Witness hereof we the Commander Officers and Seamen have hereunto sett our names or Marks the day to Said Names affixed and in the year of our Lord 1799 in Presence of Each Other.

We the underwritten Names or Marks do hereby Certify that we have recieved in full of all Demands for our services on board the Nautilus according to the within written agreement

Sidney 27 April 1799.

Signed George McClay
&c &c &c as above

[Page94]
Request of Letter of Marques Commission

To His Excellency John Hunter Esq. Governor General and Commander in Chief in and over His Majestys Territory of New South Wales and its Dependancies and Vice Admiral of the Same.

Sir! Being about to proceed on my voyage as licensed by the Hon'ble East India Company, the direction of which lying near part of the Spanish dominions, and Concieving the vessel I command may have an opportunity of annoying the commerce of the Enemy, I have to request of your Excellency to grant me a letter of Marques Commission of reprisal against the Subjects of the King of Spain the Enemies of my King & Country ashuring you Sir that the force I direct shall in no wise act dishonourable to the Brittish Flag

Herewith I transmitt to your Excellency the Particulars of the vessel I command, trusting you will take into Consideration that altho' our force is Small much may be done by resolute and determined Minds

Messrs. Kent & Williamson has permitted me to use their Names offering to become shurties for my conducting myself agreeable to the Term and meaning of the Commission and Instructions I may recieve from your Excellency

The Particulars of the vessel are,
Brig Nautilus, Built at Bengal
Burthen 60 Tons pr Register
Owner - Sidenham Teast Esq.
Master. C Bishop
Carries - 3 three pounders brass Cannon
2 Two Pounders - Do
1 one Pounder - Do
6 1/2 Ib Swivals
15 Musketts
25 Men Exclusive of the Master

I have the Honour to be &c &c
Sigd Charles Bishop
Pt Jackson 6 May 1799.

[Page 95]
Provisions and stores being excessively dear and scarce at Port Jackson -

[Page 96]
Letter to Mr Hall & Select Committee

To Richd Hall Esquire President and the Gentlemen of the Select Committee of Supercargoes for the Hon'ble English East India Companys Affairs in China

Sir & Gentlemen

I have the honour to address you with the particulars of the voyage I have performed in the Nautilus, trusting that my conduct therein will appear Satisfactory to you that I have not infringed on the Hon'ble Companys licence you were so good to Extend the Period of untill I should be enabled to return here

We Sailed from Macao in company with the Comp's fleet 16 June 1787. on the 19th at 8 P.M. a Typhoon came on which parted us from the fleet and in which we Sprung our Foremast, on 23d we fell in again with the Glatton, Taunton Castle, Cufnalls, Canton and Duke of Bucclough with the Swift, Sloop of war. we continued with them untill the next day. when Capt Drummond having informed me he should cruize thereabout for some time to meet the rest of the fleet. and Capt Studd having Spared me a Spar to make a Jury Foremast, we parted Co and stood on to Eastd:. on the 30th we reached the South Point of Formosa, near which we anchored to fill up our water - our Boats being on Shore for that purpose and the people being busily employed, a Sudden volley of Small Arms was fired on them by a Party of Indians 'till then concealed behind the rocks, but now rushing out with Musketts & Bayonets, Spears Arrows and Clubs, attempted to seize the boats crew. the Boatkeeper and myself four loaded Musketts lying near us were the happy Means of preserving the rest of the crew. The Officer being the hindermost & wounded by a Gunshot fracturing his knee was Saved by a fortunate discharge of the 2 last loaded Musketts killing two of the most Fierce of the Indians then about taking hold of of him, and the others were kept aloof by Pointing our uncharged Musketts at them, untill the boat was droped far enough in the Surf to reach him an oar by which we got him Safe off. - we returned to the Ship, and from the hostile behaviour of the natives gave up the Idea of getting water here and hoisting in the boat began to get under Sail, but we found to our farther Misfortune the Anchor had hooked a rock, and we lost it with about one third of our Cable. we Steer'd to the NEt and on Monday 3d July at 6 P.M being then about 30 Leagues NEt of Botot Tobago, a very heavy Typhoon came on which continuued to blow with Great Fury about 40 hours in which

[Page 97]
we had the misfortune to Ship a Lea, that broke down the Fore Chainwalls, Carried away the Rail Stantions & Bulwark and rendered the vessel leaky in her upper works. from this time to 4th August we had a series of light baffling winds with Dry Sultry weather and being then only in 35° of North Latitude and 150 ° of Et Longitude, The Fresh Water, from the Length of our passage leakage of the Casks and no opportunity of saving rain water, became Short and on Examining our Stock only 10 days water at 2 Quarts pr Man Each day was found remaining this together with the Shattered condition of the vessel and her Fore Mast on which we could sett but little Sail, induced us to keep in a Direction for Awatska Bay in Kamschatka, to Endeavour to repair the defects and fill up our water, happily we arrived there 25th having then only 3 Gallons Fresh water onboard, From the Memoir of Capt Cooks last voyage we were led to Expect hospitable treatment from the Russians settled in these parts, and we found Indians! all that has been written of these people verified in their attention and kindness to us, The Same Benevolent Capt Schmealeff so honourably Spoken of in that voyage persided in the Chief Command with the rank of Major and Chaveleir, which had been confer'd on him as we understood by the late Empress, for his Attention and kindness to the Officers and Crews of His Majestys Ships Resolution & Discovery He readily offered us every assistance, the Settlement could aford. the and People where ordered to do any thing for us we requested and our Wounded officer was placed by his directions in the house of the 2d in command whose Wife and daughter were his kind nurses and Attendants, we daily recieved presents of fresh Salmon & Milk and often Wild fowl and venison. the Chief & 2d in Command Each gave us a Bullock - and at our request upon relating the distresses of our Vessel to the Govr. he gave us the of a Russian Ship then lying up to winter there together with an Anchor and new Europe Cable of 12 Inches, half the Pitch and Tar they had and the use of one of the Public Stores to deposit the Cargo in which we hove the vessel down to mend the Sheathing - Their Friendly Manners continuued to the last, and when I waited on the Govr: to settle with him for the things we had recieved, he ashured us it was the Orders of his Government that any Brittish vessel putting in there in distress should recieve every possible assistance the settlement could aford, and that the Govr was required to forward to Petersberg together with an acct of the vessel a Certificate that he had recieved no compensation whatever for the articles he

[Page 98]
should supply out of the Government Stores, and the Major desirous of doing every possible service to us, and fulfill in the greatest latitude the order of his court wrote on the Nautilus' pass a general order to all Russians, we might fall in with, to recieve us as Friends and treat us with all kindness -

After refitting the vessel in the best manner we could and compleating our Stock of wood and water, we left these Friendly People, mutually pleased, I believe, with Each other and sailed from thence 10th October intending as we were too late to get on the Northwest coast of America that Season, to go first to Sandwich Islands and thence on to the Island Masafuera in the South Pacific Ocean to collect a Cargo of Seal Skins, during the winter Season in the Northn. Hemisphere, purposing to return and trade on that coast in the Spring, for Sea Otter skins, but on the 14th eve were were overtaken with the most violent Storm the oldest Seaman on board ever knew, Typhoons and other gales of wind were but Squalls compared to this tremendous blow, which lasted with little intermissions 4 days and in which the vessel became almost an entire wreck. The Bulwark Stantions, sail Guns Caboose Spare boat and an anchor were torn and Swept away by the force of the Sea, those Sails we dared to hoist blown to Ribbons, before they were scarcely left with both Pumps going beside bailing at the Hatchway with bucketts. for a longtime we had little hope of outliving the Gale, but by great hazard and Exertion, we got leather nailed over those holes in the Sides & Gunwales from which the Stantions had been torn away and the Topmasts being Struck, the vessel rightened and we got her free but in so wrecked and Shattered a Condition when the Gale abated I judged it prudent to endeavour to regain the Harbr we had left then distant about 60 Leagues, but we tried in vain. After beating 11 days against an almost continual gale of wind in which our rigging and Sails Suffered so much from the frozen Snow which fell with little intermission, that we found it necessary to give up the Attempt and bear away for the Sandwich Islands, we Should Indeed! have not hazarded the vessel so long in the Attempt, but the Spare pump Geer having been brought upon deck to be athand, was unfortunately Swept overboard too, this with the leaky State of the vessel had become an object of importance to have replaced

We arrived at Owhyhee the 1st Decr. and continued amongst the Sandwich Islands, repairing the vessel in the best manner we could, and trading for Provisions

[Page 99]
unto 31 Jany 1798 when we Sailed for Masafuera but in our passage across the Pacific Ocean we found the vessel So leaky and weak that it became absolutely necessary to go to some pool where we could give her a thorough repair and Port Jackson appeared the most Eligible - we Stopped at Otaheite in our way and took off with us 11 men 4 women and 4 Children who had been landed there from England about 12 months before for the purpose of Converting the Natives to Christianity and Civilization, but who had Meditated a plot to Cutt them off for the Sake of their Efferts

We arrived at Port Jackson 14th May where the vessel was hove down and obtained a thorough repair and on the 7th October we Sailed in Co with a little Sloop fitted out by Govr Hunter to Explore the Straits which Separate Van Daimons Land from the great Island of New Holland, to try and prouve a Cargo of Seals skins on that Coast, The Investment I laid in for purchasing Sea Otter Skins having been Expended in paying for the repairs of the vessel, we continuued on this buisness untill the beginning of March 99, when having procured about 9000 Seal Skins with little Probability of getting more that Season we returned to Port Jackson, refitted and laid in a Store of Provisions for our passage here, and finally left the Coast of New Holland 27 May 1799, and without Stopping anywhere but one day at Ladrone Islands arrived at Macao 18th August -

I have Thus Sir and Gentlemen related faithfuly the particulars of my voyage, Long anxious, and replete as it has been with adversity and distress, and have now to Solicit the favour in behalf of my owner and Self that you will permit me to dispose of the vessel, in order that I may Save as Early as possible the Expence of keeping up the Establishnment of the Nautilus, and return myself to Europe to render an Acct to my Owner and the Hon Court of Directors of my proceedings And I the more earnestly intreat your Compliance with my request as I have no other means of Saving the remaining property invested with me from total loss,

With great respect & Esteem I have
the honr to be Sir & Gen.n
&c &c &:c
Chas Bishop
Canton 5 Sepr 1799

[Page 100]
To Richd Hall Esq: President &c &c &c

Sir! I have the honr. to inclose to you a letter to yourself as President and the Gentlemen of the Select committee relative to the particleirs of the voyage I have performed in the Nautilus also conveying my request that you will be pleased to permit me to sell the vessel, relying Sir in your liberality that you will as heretofore favour my Endeavours to render the ill success of my voyage as little felt as possible, permit me then to Solicit your good offices, ashuring yourself I am
Sir with Gratitude and respect

Yr Most Ob. Humb: Servt
Chas Bishop
Canton 5 Sep 1799

To Capt Chas Bishop, Commander of the Brig Nautilus
Sir, We have recieved your letter of the 5th Instant requesting our permission to sell the Brig Nautilus, and have now to acquaint you in Answer, that we are willing to comply with your request, Provided the purchaser is a Brittish Subject, Trading under the Licence and protection of the Hon'ble Company, but it is not in our power to grant you permission to sell her to any person not of that discription.

We are Sir, Yr Humble Servtt:
Signed, Richd Hall
Saml Peach
F. Turnly
Macao 9 Sepr, 1799

[Page 101]
Agreement with Ponqua, Houng Merchant

It is agreed this day between Ponqua, Houng Mert of Canton, & Messrs Charles Bishop and Roger Simpson Co agents of the Brig Nautilus, for themselves & Concern as follows.

The Said CB and RS Sells to Ponqua the Cargo of the Nautilus, consisting of Nine Thousand Seals Skins or there about, for and in consideration of Ponqua paying and delivering to them on board the Nautilus at Whampu' Three Thousand yards of broad blue wollen cloth, Such as is usually Carried to the North west coast of America together with Seven Thousand Spanish Dollars in Cash to be paid on Demand and Four Thousand Dollars in a Transfer on the Hon'ble English Company as soon as their Treasury is open for granting bills on the Court of Directors in England.

The Quality of Said Seals skins having been Exd and aproved of by Said Ponqua, who has advanced in part Pay- ment 2000 Dollars cash, and having desired that the above Cargo be Delivered to him at Whampu', Hereby agrees to defray the Port Charges of Admeasurment, the Present to the Hoppo, Ship and house Compradores and Linguists fees and Pilotage of the vessel also to furnish Messrs. Bishop and Simpson with a Factory at Canton

In Witness whereof the Contracting parties have hereonto Set their Hands & Seals at Macao this 28th Augst 1799, in Presence of the Subscribing Witnesses

Signed in Chinese by Ponqua
Signed, Chas Bishop, R Simpson

Witnesses. two Chinese Merchts
Signed in Chinese