heading back to england in 1803, flinders' vessel needed urgent repairs at isle de france (mauritius). although britain and france were at war, flinders thought the scientific nature of his work would ensure safe passage, but a suspicious governor kept him under arrest for more than six years. in captivity, he recorded details of his voyages for future publication, and put forward his rationale for naming the new continent 'australia', as an umbrella term for new holland and new south wales – a suggestion taken up later by governor macquarie.