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HISTORY OF MAURITIUS. 
But this project, on which his hopes had so long rested, was doomed to end in 
disappointment; for at the moment when he was looking to the fame he should 
acquire, and the service he should render to his country, he received positive orders 
from the Company to disarm his squadron; and, to quench all representations on 
his part, he was expressly commanded to send every ship home, and let them return 
empty, rather than keep one of them at the islands. In this unexpected and morti¬ 
fying conjuncture, he had no alternative but obedience. The French government, 
however, soon repented of this measure; and M. de la Bourdonnais, being persuaded 
that, in the circumstances wherein he was placed, it would be impossible for him to 
exert himself to any purpose of distinction or public advantage, at least equal 
to his hopes, demanded permission of the ministers to return to France. This 
request however was refused; as it was thought absolutely necessary for the welfare 
of India, that a person of his talents, local knowledge, and integrity, should remain 
there, for the interests of his country in that part of the globe. 
1744.—M. de la Bourdonnais finding himself obliged to remain in his government, 
and that he must no longer indulge himself in military speculations, gave himself up 
entirely to ceconomical arrangements. He employed himself in establishing sugar, 
indigo, and cotton works, which he had begun at his own expence, and had answered 
his utmost expectations. In these occupations he was busily engaged, when, on the 
11th of September, 1744, he received the intelligence from Europe, that war had 
been declared between France and England. 
