It turns out that Commerson's worries about his own health were well-founded.
Whatever the case, Baret and Commerson did not continue on with the Etoile after the masquerade was discovered.
Not surprisingly, most historians think there's little doubt that Commerson was the father of the baby and arranged the signing of the certificate.
The royal invitation did allow Commerson an assistant, paid for out of the government's pocket,
but women were not allowed on navy ships at the time.
Second, Commerson carried so much equipment with him that the ship's captain gave up
his cabin to make room for Commerson, his assistant, and all of the equipment.
Perhaps it was her wit or looks, or perhaps Commerson was just incredibly into plants-
but Jeanne Baret's next recorded employer was Commerson himself, who took her on as a“housekeeper.”.
(It is unknown how Baret came to be literate when it's likely her parents were not-
but it's possible she was taught by a parish priest or even Commerson himself.).