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266 the Town- when the Steamer was stoped again- our Boat was unclear & mand and Capt Watkins, took the officer on board the boat, to take him /the officer/ back to his vessel again- for fear those having possession of the Town- might hear we had one of Santa Anna's men on board, and would take him prisoner, perhaps kill him- or make some trouble for us-- they told him, he was risking his life, by going up with us- and he, finally began to think so himself,- and asked us to protect him etc- he was advised 'however', to return to his vessel.- this however' he dare not do- unless, Capt Watkins, would go with him, and explain to the Como the reason of his return etc he dare not go back alone he said- as that would be breaking orders,- the punishment of which, he feared as much- as the risk of his life, on going up to Town, with us,- not wishing to have any trouble either way- /if possible,/ Capt W- went back with him, and explained it to the Como and to his satisfaction, I think- as the Officer didnot return with Capt W.- as soon as Capt W and the Officer left the Steamer this time- we kept on up to the Twon, leaving Capt W- to come up in his Boat on his return from the Man O war unclear- we arrived up off the Town