"But this is visionary, for I am so fast in prison that I cannot
get forth. The thought is bitterness. When I recollect where and
what I am, and compare it with where and how I ought to be
employed, it is misery; but when to this the recollection of my
family and the present derangement of their affairs from my
absence are added, then it is that the bonds enter deep into my
soul."

While his money lasted, Flinders spent it in buying fruit and vegetables
for his imprisoned crew; when cash ran out, he drew a bill on the
Admiralty. The interpreter who undertook to get it cashed was nearly
killed by the soldiers for carrying, as they thought, a private letter.
Eventually the Danish consul cashed this bill for the Englishmen, and
gave them full value for it, which, considering the state of the times,
shows that he was a truly good man.

The _Cumberland_ was taken to the head of the harbour and converted into a
hulk, and a document was brought to Flinders to sign in which--in truly
French fashion--he was asked to accuse himself of being a spy. He promptly
refused the request, which was again and again made, and he always scorned
to comply. While his papers were being overhauled, Flinders managed to
secure some of them, and among other things the signal-book, which he
destroyed.

De Caen's report to his Government shows the view he took of these
proceedings. In it he says:--

"Commander Flinders, formerly captain of the corvette
_Investigator_, sent by the English Government for work of
discovery in the Pacific Ocean, has altered absolutely the mission