Arriving in early 1725, he adopted the name Mr. Smith (Gow being Gaelic for Smith), and renamed his vessel the George, and passed as a wealthy trader, even courting a Miss Gordon. He was eventually recognised by a merchant passing through the islands, and his true identity was revealed.
In 1725, he arrived in the islands, adopting the name Mr. Smith (Gow being Gaelic for Smith) and renaming his ship the George. He feigned wealth, even courting Miss Gordon, before being recognized by a merchant who exposed his true identity.