The proceeding was so ill-advised and so well calculated to defeat the object of the squadron's coming into Indian waters, that it was believed in the squadron that Matthews had done it purposely to put the pirates on their guard.

Whether this was his intention or not, it serves to show the opinion held of him by those under his command.

Soon after Matthews' departure, Taylor and La Buze reached St.Augustine's Bay, read the letter, and sailed at once for Fort Dauphin, in the south-eastern end of Madagascar.

The _Salisbury_ and _Exeter_ arrived soon afterwards, and getting no news either of Matthews or the pirates, sailed for Bombay.
These proceedings were not of happy augury for the success of the expedition.

The pirates had information of the squadron being in the Indian seas, and were doubtless kept henceforth informed, from time to time, of its movements through their various sources of intelligence.
Taylor, satisfied with his gains, sailed for the West Indies and surrendered to the Spaniards, who gave him a commission.
Matthews' first act on dropping anchor, was to force the native vessels in harbour, belonging to Bombay traders, to strike the English colours they were in the habit of displaying, and he next embarked in a squabble with the Governor as to who was to fire the first salute, a matter that was not settled without many messages to and fro.