[2] In 1785, in the Scorpion,[3] he made a new plan of the cove of Muscat, whence considerable trade was then carried on to China and India, as well as to Bussorah and the various ports in the Gulf of Oman.

[6] The Panther and Endeavour, vessels belonging to the East India Company's marine establishment at Bombay, were fitted for this service, under the command of Captain McClure.

[7] On 23 August, McCluer set out in the Panther, with the Endeavour, under Lieutenant William Drummond, as companion ship, reaching the Pelew Islands on 21 January 1791,[3] where they were welcomed with feasting, singing, and dancing: for they brought with them livestock, guns, and other presents.

[6][8] On 12 February,[9] McCluer embarked, in the Panther, on a supply trip to China,[10] and was accompanied by three significant islander youths: the adopted son, Kokiuaki, and daughter of Abba Thulle, and another young girl.

Dr. Harrison and several of the Gentlemen had a copy of the three people.On 21 March the China fleet sailed for England, escorted by the Leopard and Thames as far as Java Head;[13] and thus the Panther's journals were transmitted home.

[10] Another object of the mission was to make a survey of the Pelew group, with the view of ascertaining whether there was a harbour capable of affording safety and provision to any of the company's ships which might be disabled through stress of weather in their voyages to or from China.

[16] "It would seem that the long and arduous work in New Guinea had weakened his mind", notes Laughton, "and that he was unable to resist the fascinations of the dusky beauties of the islands.

[16] Having been promoted to be captain in the Bombay Marine on 27 June 1793, he resolved to return to the service of the East India Company and go to Ternate "to hear the news".

[16][3] As bad weather came on he changed his mind and steered for China, reaching Macao after a perilous navigation in a native boat, without compass or other instruments, and with no provisions except cocoa-nuts and water.