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After his voluntary promise to me faithfully to discharge their Claims, added to certain injudicious expressions he made use of, in relation to the detention of the Junk in question, in the hearing of a Gentleman attached to this Consulate, has caused considerable doubt in my mind as to the degree of credit to be attached to his declaration.
His Conduct Contrasts very unfavourably with the punctuality with which the Greeks discharged their engagements to this Port for convoying them.
Nevertheless in my reply I have endeavoured to make out as good a case as possible, with the view of allaying the irritation which might be fostered by the Complainants, were they left under the impression that the injury done them was entirely the fault of our countrymen.
Mr Robertson's Manifestation of some doubt as to the correctness of his proceedings, heightened, I believe, by a admonition from his owner at whom he had made it known.
His declaration betrays his anxiety to shift the odium of the detention on the Junkmen.
Several Vessels under English Colours are now similarly employed in Convoy to Junks along the Coast, & it is Much to be feared that, in order to show their zeal, they may commit acts of indiscretion like the one now under Consideration, regardless of results, unless checked.