At the same time he heard that the Beaver had made good her
voyage from New York to the Columbia. This was additional ground
of hope for the welfare of the little colony. The post being thus
relieved and strengthened, with an American at its head, and a
ship of war about to sail for its protection, the prospect for
the future seemed full of encouragement, and Mr. Astor proceeded
with fresh vigor to fit out his merchant ship.
Unfortunately for Astoria, this bright gleam of sunshine was soon
overclouded. just as the Adams had received her complement of
men, and the two vessels were ready for sea, news came from
Commodore Chauncey, commanding on Lake Ontario, that a
reinforcement of seamen was wanted in that quarter. The demand
was urgent, the crew of the Adams was immediately transferred to
that service, and the ship was laid up.
This was a most ill-timed and discouraging blow, but Mr. Astor
would not yet allow himself to pause in his undertaking. He
determined to send the Enterprise to sea alone, and let her take
the chance of making her unprotected way across the ocean. Just
at this time, however, a British force made its appearance off
the Hook; and the port of New York was effectually blockaded.
