[2] This authorized he and Sinclair to engage in offensive action against the French, not just defensive, should the occasion arise.

Captain Bligh and Commander Joseph Short of Porpoise disagreed continually through the voyage as each believed they were in charge of the convoy.

When Bligh ordered a change of course for Sinclair, Short responded by ordering first officer John Putland to fire warning shots at Sinclair, which carried Putland's wife, Mary, and his father-in-law, Captain Bligh.

In great distress, John Putland complied with the order, firing two warning shots across the bow of Sinclair.

She arrived at Sydney on 28 July 1808, carrying Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Foveaux, the new Lieutenant Governor of the colony, and 45 troops.