Charlton sought naval help to free two British prisoners believed to have been detained for religious reasons. HMS Sulphur brought Catholic priests to Hawaii in 1837 to open a parish. Catholic sailors and other residents gave the Royal Navy a reason to support access to worship. The diplomatic concern was that France or Spain might otherwise deliver the priests themselves. Expelling clergy landed by either Catholic power could then become a pretext for war. British delivery of the priests was intended to reduce that danger while supporting religious balance.
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HMS Sulphur brought Catholic priests to prevent a wider dispute
The Royal Navy's support for Catholic worship also sought to avoid a confrontation over clergy brought by France or Spain.