Captain Flanders , who had been for years master of vessels for the Cushing shipping company , agreed to serve as chief mate , and to assume command of the vessel .
Couch could remain in the Oregon Territory to discharge the cargo .
Captain Flanders , who had been for years master of vessels for the Cushing shipping company , agreed to serve as chief mate , and to assume command of the vessel so that Couch could remain in the Oregon Territory to discharge the cargo .