|
| Feb. 3. |
892. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Minutes of a meeting of the committee at Deptford, concerning shipbuilding and alteration of the docks, &c. there. About the quantity and time of victualling; gunpowder; and timber from Ireland. Committee for Blackwall to join with those for Deptford in matters of great consequence. Price of the cider. Thos. Chauncey entertained as “remembrancer for the Company,” at 30l. per annum. Letter from Mr. Baker, certifying the misrule of some of the Company's factors at Gravesend. The governor recommends to the Company a secret to be concealed, that Capt. Castleton had informed him of an intended voyage out of France with certain ships to the East Indies, Sir John Ferne supposed to be the chief commander, and Eustace Mann, master of one of the ships; aid expected from Sir Arthur Ingram and Sir Lionel Cranfield. Capt. Keeling having written about Mr. Newman's freedom, Mr. Handforde to give notice upon what terms he desires it. The question of Capt. Castleton being employed as commander referred, the governor's wish that it be kept secret. Touching complaints of the canvas, whether our own people can provide so good as strangers, and the great consequence of securing it when it is to be had; offer of Mr. Bell. Edward, son of Sir Edw. Osborne, to be admitted. Letter from the Lord Admiral wishing to borrow timber from the Company for the King's ship the Vanguard; committee to see what present use they have for timber, and return an answer to Sir Robt. Mansell accordingly. The wages of Edw. Dodsworth, Thos. Mitford, and other factors employed last year in the New Year's Gift, to be admitted in the joint stock as part of their underwritings. John Caston [Clifton in the margin] chosen to prosecute, at his own charge, sailors and others who have received their imprest money and then forsaken the service, and to be allowed a third of what he recovers. Order confirmed for the committee to consider the reformations of abuses committed by the mariners. [Two pages and a half. Court Bk., III., 355–357.] |
Feb. 4.
Hague. |
893. . Clement Edmondes to the Earl of Somerset. Arrived at the Hague with the rest of the commissioners after a tempestuous and difficult passage, on 20th January. Reasons why they could get no audience of the President of the States until 30th. M. Barnevelt acknowledged the King's great favour in sending to accommodate these differences; and that orders had been given to Sir Noel Caron to induce His Majesty to do so; in a private visit he let fal. words to the effect “that if we would join effectually with them to drive the Spaniards and Portugals out of the East Indies we should make the trade of those parts as profitable to these governments as the West Indies is to the Spaniard.” The expectation and desire of the Hollanders easily to be gathered; to make war on the Spaniard in the Indies as the only means to keep both them and us from being beaten from thence. Directly contrary to their instructions to meddle with anything tending to a breach of the peace with Spain; will report the proposal to His Majesty if it be made when they come to treat. Controversies between the Greenland and East India Companies of Holland, whether free trade is to be admitted, those of [the] India [Company] denying it, and so excluding us from the spice trade in the Moluccas, the Greenland Company protesting against any prohibition and by that means hoping to gain the whale fishery. Foreign news. [Two pages and a half. Holland Correspondence.] |
| Feb. 6. |
894. First proposal of the Commissioners, touching the differences between the English and Hollanders trading to the East Indies; being an answer to the Hollanders who challenge the sole trade of spices, which they claim by conquest and contracts of amity with divers kings in those parts for sole trade of the principal commodities of their kingdoms. “But for as much as you then gave us to understand that you were not authorized to vary from that answer, we thereupon gave over the treaty.” [Two pages and a half. Holland Correspondence.] |
| Feb. 7 |
895. Court Minutes of the East East India Company. Complaint against Geo. Uffington and Robt. Hughes; the general to put them ashore, and likewise Simon Stratford if he has again misbehaved himself. The governor holds himself much wronged that the business he had recommended should be kept secret had been revealed, concerning Capt. Castleton's imformation of a projected voyage from France to the East Indies; Capt. Newport to be written to about it. Request of Ellys Flud to be employed as a captain refused. Mr. Hounsell and Henry Metcalfe referred, the former for a master, who went master's mate with Capt. Saris. Choice of factors. Petition of John Potter for employment referred. Mr. Crewe and Roger Madox refused, [Two pages. Court Bk, III., 357–359.] |
| Feb. 8. |
896. Answer of the States to the first proposal of the Commissioners; whether it were just, equitable, and possible that the English should buy spices everywhere in the East Indies, where by contract with the Indian princes and nations they were promised to the Hollanders. Concerning justice; the English having recourse to the liberty of the law of nations and the Hollanders to the obligation proceeding from onerous contracts. Concerning equity; the Hollanders hold it reasonable that he who would have part in the profit should likewise bear part of the necessary charges to obtain this profit. Concerning possibility; neither able to keep the trade of any part of the Indies with any hope of continuance except the Indians be defended and the Spanish forces kept back. They therefore expect some overture which will more and more unite their affections and their forces, “and by this means have some reason of the Spaniard, who puffed up with the possession of the Indies, can give no limits to his insatiate appetite.” [Three pages. Holland Correspondence.] |
| Feb. 9 |
897. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Minutes of “a meeting about Capt Saris business.” How the great number of presents, amounting to more than 3,000 ryals, were bestowed; partly in the Red Sea upon the Bashaw at Mocha, and partly at Japan, “which princes will expect great presents who are sought unto.” Answers of Capt. Saris to the charge of private trade; Mr. Best's was double his, whereas he sent home two ships at first, went forth with the third and passed further than ever any Englishman did, with much honour to his nation and great profit to the adventurers. Certifies to the amount of Sir Henry Middleton's estate, and hisadvice to Sir Henry to lade the Trades Increase, and send her home from the Red Sea. Long debate of the whole business; resolution to let him have his wages and goods, but to reserve hia bond. [One page. Court Bk., III, 359–360.] |
Feb .10.
Bantam. |
898. John Jourdain to the East India Company. Refers to his previous letter of 2nd Jan. [see No. 862]. Cause of the long stay of the James after she was laden; dissension between the captain and master. The 3,673 sacks of pepper on board for the account of the joint stock; 5,000 sacks of Bantam pepper on board the Globe. Sends duplicate copy of his journal formerly transmitted by Capt. Marlowe. Concerning the estimate of the goods belonging to the sixth voyage. Guzerat goods not vendible at Bantam; some course should be taken to ship them for Sumatra or other places where they will sell. Above 50 per cent. profit will be made on gold in the Moluccas, and for which cloves may be had at that rate sooner than for any other commodities or ryals. Resolution to send the Concord to the Moluccas and leave the Osiander at Bantam for lack of men. The Speedwell pinnace sent to Macassar to provide rice for the Concord; Sophony Cozucke sent in her. Factors for Macassar. Cozucke to stay at Banda with Weldyn, if he may be persuaded. The Hollanders do not spare to say they look out for English ships at the Moluccas with threats. Letters arrived from Japan from Cocks, with news of the death of Peacocke at Cochin China, and loss of goods worth 700l. Junk sent by Cocks to Siam with Addames and Wickham, who desires that his wages, but 20l. a year, and his time long since expired, may be increased. Five China junks arrived with store of silks, but dares not disburse any money until other ships come with a fresh supply; the Hollanders in a similar situation. Is informed that Capt. Marlowe has 10 tons of sundry commodities on board the James, saying that he will now make amends for the last voyage by which he was not well dealt with. Goods laden on board the Globe for the account of the joint stock. Goods of the 7th voyage, left behind by Peter Floris, to be sent another year; commendations of Floris. Ill–carriage of Cobb; he is sent to England in the Globe. Arrival of General David Middleton with the Samaritan, Thomas, and Thomasine. Resolution to dispatch the Samaritan for England, the Thomas for Sumatra, and the Thomasine to second the Concord at Amboyna and Banda, and homeward to touch at Timor and Gracia in Java. Capt. Hawkins with the Osiander to go for Japan and touch at Pantani both ways. The Samaritan will not be ready for a month. The conclusion of this letter is dated 21st Feb. [Four pages. O. C., Vol. II., No. 242.] |
| Feb. 10. |
899. Court Minutes of the East India Company. About payment of Robt. Brooke's wages, chief carpenter in the Dragon. Offer of Edward James and Lawrence Greene to bring in ryals accepted. Mr. Marberie freed from being an adventurer in the eighth voyage, “finding that the hand appeareth, not to be any of his” John Waldoe to be entertained at a certain salary; the nature of his employment. Account of Thos. Watkins; 20l. to be given to his sisters. Henry Metcalfe refused. Thos. Rastall refused. Capt. Castleton to be employed. John Hinchley, having been four or five times in the Indies, and Rich. Hounsell to be entertained. Robt. Haies to be purser's mate. Request of Rich. Holland, who has travelled in Spain and Portugal, and been consul in Naples, to be steward; difference between the place in noblemens' or gentlemens' houses, and in the Company's ships. Walter Stacey, having been three times to the East Indies, to be master's mate at 50s. a month. Edward [? Edmond] Camden, a factor and adventurer of the eight voyage, dying at Bantam, his brother Rich. Camden, executor, desires to be admitted; arguments whether a man can be free before taking the oath; Edmond's adventure to be passed over to Richard, with liberty to adventure 400l. in the joint stock, and take his oath when he pleases. |
|
Feb. 11.—Two letters read from Capt. Keeling, complaining of defects in the Dragon. Letters of excuse for Uffington and Hughes received; Hughes allowed to return to the Downs, and recover the ships again, “if possibly he might.” Uffington expected. Letter from Capt. Newport assuring the governor that he never spake with Sir John Ferne, and never had conference with any others about an intended voyage out of France, but acknowledging that he sent twice or thrice to speak with him before he knew about it. Concerning the desire of Mr. Newman to be admitted an adventurer: opinion that he may then discover more of those plots than the Company will be able to learn by any other means. Information of a ship preparing in England to be delivered free abroad, and that many are suspected to have hands in the action; Bathurst, who came home with Capt. Castleton, and is a principal person in the business, to be called before the lords and examined; the governor has no doubt that the King'will prohibit all his subjects from carrying a trade from this land under the protection of a foreign prince; petition to the council complaining of the proceedings, and craving redress, approved. Report that Capt. Keeling has his wife aboard, with an intent to carry her with him; opinions upon the best course to be adopted; resolution to have her put ashore, or the captain discharged from their service, letter to be written to that effect; another letter to the lord ambassador, authorizing him to act with full power in place of Capt. Keeling, and a third to Mr. Barklie; copies to be sent to the Isle of Wight in case the ships be gone. Capt. Keeling's complaint of the insufficiency of the men, imputed to be an excuse for his error in grounding the Dragon. [Five pages. Court Bk. III., 360–365.] |
| Feb. 14. |
900. Commission from the States General of the United Provinces to the Deputies to treat with His Majesty's commissioners. Exception taken by the commissioners to the words, “des certains empechements donnes par les sujets de Sa Majesté aux nostres aux Indes Orientates,” reply that they answered to the words in the King's commission, Commercium impeditum, and “did conceive they had as just occasion to think themselves impeached by our coming to the Moluccas as we had by being kept from hence by them.” They mutually forbore to insist further oh those words, and the treaty was entered into. An account of their future proceedings in this employment reported to the King; see letter of 10 April 1615. [Six pages. Holland Correspondence, May 1615.] |
| Feb. 14. |
901. Reply of the Commissioners to the first answer of the States. Traffic and merchandising is free to all nations, and cannot be hindered but by war and hostility. Contracts are unavailable. Those made by the English with the Emperor of Russia in 1553, and by Sir Fras. Drake with the King of Ternate in 1580, better than the Hollanders as precedent by many years, and never by consent of the English transacted to the Hollanders; “but if ours were not sufficient to debar free trade, then no more is yours at this present.” Importance of the trade; such commodities as are no where else to be found in the whole world, coveted by all Europe and Asia as necessary and important for the use of man; such as moved a war for many years together between the Castilian and the Portugal, and in the end were pawned to John King of Portugal by Charles the emperor for 250,000 ducats. The English make little reckoning of what the Spaniards can attempt against them in those places. It was never the meaning of the commissioners to undertake any part of the charges of the Hollanders for access and trade to those places, “more than we would do for coming into Sluys, or any other places which you have taken in at an excessive and onerous charge.” The thing insisted upon by the commissioners is free trade, which freedom they claim by the law of nations, and for the reasons above specified. [Two pages and a half. Holland Correspondence.]
|
| Feb. 14. |
902. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Power to Mr. Clifton to serve an admiralty warrant upon Mann. Concerning Sir Henry Middleton's adventures in the sixth voyage; found to be a creditor for 900l.; to let the matter rest until propounded by some of his friends. Fresh provisions to be put up according to Capt. Castleton's directions. Committee to procure the commodities recommended by Captain Saris for Japan, viz., broad cloths, baize, lead, galley pots, writing tables, refined camphor, elephants' teeth, Holland cloth, cambric and lawns, Slesier cloth, pictures of wars, steel, skins, “sanders wood” raw silk of Canton and Lanctou, and sundry other things. Rich. Holland refused. John Hughson to be steward's mate; Jeremy Sambrooke, purser's mate. Cost of plating the bread rooms of several vessels; to have them leaded as a trial. Stained damasks to be dyed by Samuel Jyde, dwelling in St. Thomas Apostles at the Princes Arms. Rich. Gotts and John Raines refused. John Myll referred. |
|
Feb. 15.—Resolutions of the Committee appointed to consider the wrongs sustained by the common sailors who are entertained for the Company's voyages, and to settle some course of reformation. |
|
Feb. 16.—Half of Clement Edmondes' adventure of 1,600l. in the joint stock to be set over to Wm. Russell. Capt. Clemham's broke remitted, disclaiming any interest in his late brother Thomas' adventure in the 8th voyage. Red skins bought of Mr. Russell. Letter from Rich. Atkinson that Mrs. Keeling is on shore and intends coming to London. Instructions to him. Answer to a misconception of Capt. Newport that he is under the command of Mr. Barklie. Capt. Keeling to be written to that some of the Company doubt that his wife being there was the cause of his neglecting to take advantage of the fair winds. Letter received from Rich. Baker certifying the cause of their stay to have been the want of the master, carpenter, surgeon, and 10 or 12 of their principal officers. Mr. Adderley to be sent for from the Isle of Wight. Concerning the disposal of Nicholas Banggam's adventure in the joint stock. Silks bought by Mr. Hamor. Goods to be sorted and sold at a general court on Friday. John Myll to be purser of the Clove. Mr. Colmer to be gratified with a piece of plate for his kindness to the men at Plymouth. John Hinchley entertained at 50l. per annum. Mr. Foster and Gillam Throgmorton referred. John Tothill refused. Concerning the book called the Trades Increase; opinion of the Archbishop of Canterbury that it should rather be suffered to die than be suppressed, which would cause many men to seek after it the more earnestly, but promising a warrant to that effect if the Governor desired it; opinion of the court that the author should be punished “and thereby discover the dislike the State hath to such pamphlets that shall tax what the State hath approved.” Mr. Leate and Mr. Bell to peruse the book, and report whether the author may not be called in question in the Star Chamber. A debt of Samuel Saltonstall, factor in the Dragon, to be paid out of his wages to Thos. Whitley. [Five pages and a half. Court Bk. III., 365–370.] |
Feb. 17.
Bantam. |
903. John Yates to Wm. Greenwell, deputy–governor of the East India Company. Left Plymouth 29 May [1614], at the Cape 3d Oct., fell in with the coast of Java 29 Dec, but because of contrary winds did not arrive at Bantam until 14th present, where he heard the ill news of the death of Sir Henry Middleton, John and Ferdinand Cotton, and many more. Robt. Savage taken in the ship by Raphe Wilson, contrary to articles. Is appointed purser of the Thomas, vice Samuel Mosley, deceased. Great dissension between Capt. Hawkins and Mr. Rowe. All their pork on board stinking. Seven men dead from the three ships. One page, O. C., Vol. II., No. 243.] |
Feb. 18.
Bantam. |
904. Samuel Boyle to the East India Company. The James sailed from Bantam 13th ult., where she took her whole lading. Arrangements for the voyage of the Concord and Globe. The Concord sailed for the Moluccas 27 Jan. last; John Skynner, master, and George Ball, chief factor, for the voyage; great hopes of establishing a factory there, and of procuring good store of cloves; “we have the love of the country people,” and they hate the Hollanders, with whom they have open wars. The Hollanders strongly oppose the designs of the English, but he doubts not nevertheless the establishing factories at Amboyna and Banda. Disposal of General Middleton's fleet. Places which it is requisite to visit for the sale of cloth. Small hope of reaping any benefit in Japan, but there is some likelihood of settling a factory in China, not far from the English factory in Japan. The Samaritan to be laden with all speed for her return to England. Concerning the Darling. None of the Surat fleet yet arrived, though expected daily. General Middleton thought to have found Capt. Downton at Bantam with some of his fleet. [One page and three quarters. O. C., Vol. II., No. 244.] |
| Feb. 18. |
905. Second answer of the Deputies to the reply of the English Commissioners. They do not generally deny that by the law or nations the English ought not to be suffered to trade with the Indians, but maintain that that law does not give a man licence to buy that which is already promised to another. Arguments against all that may be said concerning the Indian princes and nations not having the power “to oblige their fruits;” the freedom of the law of nations cannot binder a man from selling or engaging his own; “and this being done if any other would attempt to buy a thing of them so sold or obliged, by good reason this may be denied him.” The four maxims alleged by the Commissioners do not at all touch the knot of the question. As to Russia it were easy to prove that the commissioners are ill informed of the Hollanders' voyages, but the deputies are assured the English have made no contract with the Russians to bind themselves to defend them at the expense of the the revenue of Russia. That which is alleged of Ternate is no more to the purpose; reasons. They do not deny the islands they have contracted with to be of some importance, but argue that they never refuse to sell the spices to the English at a just and reasonable price, whereas the Spaniard would price them at whatever rate he pleased. It was altogether unnecessary for the commissioners to make small account of what the Spaniards can attempt against the English in the Indies; the Indian people oppressed by the Spaniards might have been succoured by the English as they have been by the Hollanders, but it has not been so, therefore English commerce in those parts would be an effect caused by the Hollanders' expenses. The time and place of Sir Fras. Drake's and Cavendish's voyages through the East Indies must be distinguished; no comparison between the present time and that of the first English voyages. Concerning the places; there are some princes powerful enough to defend themselves against the Spaniard, as the King of Mogor, to whom belongeth Surat, “where we have traded above ten years,” the great Samorin, king of Malabar, “with whom we have made alliance,” the Hidalcan, and some others; but the isles whose kings are of little strength are open to all invasion and a prey to the Spaniard if some forces do not cover them. The deputies can prove that Acheen and Bantam, the King of Jhor, Amboyna, Banda, and many other places have been assaulted by Spanish armies, which it was impossible for them to resist without strong help; the Hollanders' great fights before Bantam, Mozambique, Malacca, and the Manillas cannot be unknown; “Indies and Spain confess that there is no other cause [of resistance] but our armies.” Without great expenses for defence of the Indians, commerce with them cannot be maintained. These expenses always considered most necessary by the States General who have contributed great sums of the public to help the Company. It is concluded that according to the judgment of all understanding people “and even that of the King of Great Britain, who is the greatest amongst the wise and wisest among the great,” that the defence of these princes and people is a necessary means to retain a trade with them. Is it equitable to have the profits in common without contributing to the necessary charges; the example alleged of Sluys very different The charges of the war so great that they have swallowed up the hoped–for profits of the trade; impossible for the Hollanders to continue if the profits be parted and not the charges. The deputies desire the commissioners to give them judgment upon four questions; whether the law of nations can hinder a man from selling or engaging his own? whether the trade in the Indies can be maintained without defending the islanders against the Spaniards? whether the expenses can be borne without the whole revenue of the islands? and what may be the fittest means to hinder the Spaniard from reestablishing his dominion in the East Indies? [Fourteen pages and a half. Holland Correspondence.] |
Feb. 20.
Bantam, |
906. Capt. David Middleton to the East India Company. Found the Globe at Bantam ready to sail for England, “being a rich Ship.” Understood of the death of his brother, Sir Henry Middleton, and the abuse of the Company's servants touching his goods, “taking all for fish that came to net.” Has now lost two brothers in their service. Disposal of the ships that came along with him. Has furnished the Osiander “a ship forlorn,” with the principal men of his fleet and provisions for a voyage to Japan to second Capt. Saris, and overlook the factories in Siam, Patani, and Japan. No news of Capt. Downton's fleet, but doubts not they are employed to the Company's profit. Refers to Capt. Cristian and Peter Floris for an account of all things. Expected to have found a great stock, but it is all invested in cloth, which must be sent abroad, for it will not sell at Bantam. No employment for him but to view the factories; great mortality among the factors at Bantam, those abroad need to be seconded where he has sent all his factors. Shall leave orders for a small ship to overrun all the factories every year, and take the factors' accounts. Good iron brought from Coromandel and good cheap. The factory at Succadana shall be relieved. [One page and a half. Indorsed, “Recd. 6 Sept. 1615.” O. C., Vol II., No. 245.] |
Feb. 20.
Bantam. |
907. John Millward to the East India Company. Arrived at the Cape 3d Oct. 1614, having only lost three men in the whole fleet. Dangers escaped through an error in their course to Bantam, a warning to those who go in future. Ships found in the road. The Osiander to be fitted for Japan, and Nich. Hawkins to go as Cape merchant with Ralph Coppindall and Arthur Predys assistants; the Thomas for Sumatra, with the writer as Cape merchant, and Mr. Nicolls, assistant; and the Thomasine for the Moluccas, with Mr. Bailye Cape merchant, and Edward Blitheman assistant. Misfortune of the Trades Increase, death of Sir H. Middleton, and mortality among his men. Hears nothing of Capt. Downton's fleet. No Dutch ships in the road. The Samaritan will be ready to lade in a month. [Two pages. Indorsed, “Rec. the 6th of September 1615.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 246.] |
Feb. 20.
Bantam. |
908. Edward Blitheman to Sir Thos. Smythe. Account of the voyage out. The river of Sestros, on the coast of Guinea, advantageous for trade, being very little out of the ordinary course. Ships at the Cape of Good Hope homeward bound. Ungrateful conduct of Coree the Indian who had received so many favours from the Company, his running away amongst his barbarous crew, and never coming near them again, “so it had been good in my opinion either he had been hanged in England or drowned homeward,” for they got no cattle after from any of his tribe, and had fared a great deal worse but that another tribe traded with them for cattle. Contrary winds drove them to the coast of Java; no other commodities there but fresh victuals, and those exceedingly scarce; the people were all in arms, and had sent their provisions up into the country. Some present sent to the king, who sent them in return a small goat, a hen, and a few lemons. Ships found at Bantam, and how they are to be employed. [Three pages. Indorsed, “Edward Blitheman to be commended for his advice.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 247.] |
Feb. 21.
Bantam. |
909. Richard Rowe to the East India Company. Another and somewhat fuller account of the voyage to Bantam, but without many of the incidents to be found in the preceding. Intended employment of the ships at Bantam. No news as yet of Capt. Downton's fleet. [Three pages and a quarter. Indorsed, “Rec. 6 Sept. 1615.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 248.] |
Feb. 21.
Bantam. |
910. Richard Westby to the East India Company. Arrival of the Globe from the Coromandel coast, and her lading for England, which includes pepper, China silks, and a large parcel of diamonds from Succadana. Advantages of trade to the Moluccas. A vessel commissioned by John Jourdain to go there. Arrival of Capt. David Middleton at Bantam with the Samaritan, Thomas, and Thomasine. Not sufficient there to lade one ship, the James and the Globe having carried away all before. Distribution of the ships concluded on at a court called by Capt. Middleton. The ships from Surat expected having but small store of men at present to supply so many factories, and to establish more. [Three pages. Indorsed, “By the Globe.” O. C., Vol. II, No. 249.] |
Feb. 22.
Hague. |
911. Sir Henry Wotton, ambassador, and Clement Edmondes, Robert Middleton, and Morris Aboott, commissioners, to Sec. Sir Ralph Winwood. Account of the arrival of the commissioners; their interview with Wotton, and audience with M. Barnevelt on 30th January [see ante, No. 874.] Order given to the Indian Merchants to send hither their deputies for this conference, their company not, as with us, seated in one place, but scattered in sundry of their towns, a few days required to collect them. Began to negotiate towards the end of the same week; little more than protestations of good intents on either side. “Writings that passed between them. Expostulations about a phrase in the preface of the Hollanders' commission. Have negotiated rather with the pen than with the voice, both for avoiding passion in so sensible a subject, and not to give them power to revoke upon the main point of our right, which is the freedom of commerce. Dare pronounce nothing upon these entrances, but an assurance of their faithful care and zeal in the King's service. [Five pages. Holland Correspondence.] |
| Feb. 22. |
912. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Warrant for John Waldoe to receive the wages of his father Robert Waldoe, deceased. Petition of Thos.Thornton for employment refused. Information of the governor how honourable the Privy Council had been in furthering the good of the Company, by assisting them with authority to prevent the designs of the undertakers out of France, and had granted a commission to Sir Thos. Smythe, Sir John Watts, Sir Thos. Lowe, and Sir Wm. Craven, to examine all suspected persons that intend interloping into the East Indies or Muscovy, and to bind over such as they find culpable to appear at the Council table. Francis Crewe refused. Gillam Throgmorton to be mate with John Myll in the Clove. Concerning the wages of Fierce and Bell. Adventures of Thos. Marbury set over to Robt. Bell, of Geo. Whitmore to Henry Polsteade, and of Humphrey Robinson to his brother Henry Robinson. Payment of wages of Nic. Ufflett, John Yates, and Henry Elmer. John Potter to be steward in the Defence. Mathew Fletcher referred. About beef and pork. Order for procuring commodities for Japan confirmed. Letter read from Rich. Atkinson from Sandwich signifying the pretended show made by Mrs. Keeling of returning for London, and yet that she dealt underhand with a midwife to go with her to the Indies, and that he had delivered the governor's letters to Capt. Keeling. Also letter from Capt. Keeling complaining of great unkindness towards him in the governor's letter; but the Company approved and thanked the governor for it; some lines of comfort to be sent him, that if he return his wife to London, they will hold their former opinions firm, but if she accompany him they will hold him unworthy their service. Report of Mr. Leate and Mr. Bell that Mr. Attorney and another lawyer find some points in the book, called the Trades Increase, very near to treason and all the rest very dangerous. The opinion of Mr. Solicitor desired; Sir Dudley Diggs of opinion that a book should be set forth in defence of the East India trade. Orders for reforming the errors of the mariners formerly agreed to by a committee approved. Petition of Robt. Jackson for employment referred. [Two pages and a half. Court Bk., III., 371–373.] |
Feb. 23.
Bantam. |
913. John Jourdain to George Ball, Cape merchant of the Concord, at Amboyna. Certifies the arrival of General Middleton with his fleet. The Thomasine, now sent either to stay about Amboyna and second him, or else for Banda. The Thomas to go for Sumatra about a month hence, and the Osiander for Japan. The Samaritan for England, if pepper may be had for money; both the English and Dutch without money, and expecting daily the coming of their ships. “Kewee doth continue his villany according to his ordinary use, for I shall be forced to give a great price for pepper for his default.” Instructs him to call a council to consider what is best to be done for Banda or any other place where the vent of cloth may be had, and to direct the Thomasine, provided she go not under any of the Hollanders' castles, much ‘less under the Spaniards’ command, because the ship is of small force, “except you have certain advice, or great hope of future good.” If all hope of lading the two ships fail, to send them to Timor, Gratia, and Japara, and settle factories where any good is to be done; if not, one of them to go for Succadana. Commendations to Cokayne, Sophony, and the rest. Peter Floris left with Capt. Cristian on 21st present. Cobb remains far worse than in former time. [One page and a half. O. C., Vol. II., No. 250.] |
| Feb. 25. |
914. John Young to [the East India Company]. He went out as Mr. Aldworthe's boy, with no allowance, but now entreats the Company to allot him a salary, amongst the rest of their factors. Captain Down ton commends him and solicits for him. [Abstract. O. C., Vol. II., No. 187, p. 2.] |
Feb. 25.
Swally Road,
aboard the
Solomon. |
915. Thos Elkington to the East India Company. Account of the voyage out from the 7th March, 1614, when the fleet left the Downs. Anchored in Saldanha Bay 15 June. Ships should be furnished with pieces of brass for truck for victuals at Saldanha; the inhabitants care neither for copper nor iron, and are very deceitful. Ships touched at Saldanha both outwards and inwards, from notes graven on rocks. A good fat ox bought at St. Augustin Bay for a silver chain worth two shillings. Aloes bought at Socotra. Anchored in Swally road 15 Oct. 1614. Seven men died at Swally with the flux, caused by the inordinate drinking of a wine called Tadie, distilled from the Palmetto trees. The Portugals debarred from trade by the Great Mogul in his dominions, through having taken a Surat ship of very great value. The Governor of Surat requires the English ships to help besiege Damaun; but little hope to win it; he showed himself somewhat harsh, mentioning matters done in the Red Sea. Held off with delays till 8th Nov. Death of Emsworth and Timothy Wood. Delays in the Custom House, the customers using them hardly, and the governor taking the choice of goods at his own price and pleasure. Death of Henry Smith, a youth, at Ahmedabad. The good to be obtained must be through Mocrob Chan, the governor, the king doing nothing without him. Fight with the Portugals; 350 of them slain and burned; many of them of note. Goods carried by W. Edwardes to Agra. Surat no place for the vent of broadcloth; some other place must be found; conceives Persia will be the place. Rich. Steele and John Crouther sent thither to discover the trade and harbours for ships. All lead sold. No tin to be sent. Price of quicksilver; all that can be procured in England will not glut the market; vermilion worth almost as much. Advice as to other commodities. His opinion concerning trade in Surat is doubtful. 10,000l. in goods left with Aldworthe, and 7,000l. with Edwardes, to be employed against the coming of the next ships. Fears the Portugals will renew and increase their strength against them continually, and get into Swally before the English ships arrive to prevent them. Payments to factors. Continued 15th March, 1615. Aboard the Hector. Sailed for Bantam according to orders. Met with some Portugal ships; fears they were going for Surat; doubts the town can hardly stand against them. [Eight pages, O. C., Vol. II., No. 251.] |
| Feb. 25. |
916. Abstract of the preceding. [Ibid., No. 187, pp. 13–15.] |
Feb. 26.
Ajmere. |
917. W. Edwardes to the East India Company. Arrived at Ajmere on 1st present in company of the merchants [and others named in the margin], and was very honourably entertained. Many honourable offices done by the principal gentlemen of the court, and “generally our cause is favoured of all.” Audience of the king, to whom he presented His Majesty's letter and presents, viz.: pictures of King James, his Queen, and Lady Elizabeth, the rich cloak, the best case of bottles, the great ebony–framed looking glass, and the case of knives, all of which the king esteemed very much, especially King James' picture and the rich cloak. The king seemed to speak out of sincere affection these words, “You are welcome, your ships have done me good service below; I am much affected to your king, and will send him my letter and picture, and what else you shall advise me, may give him best content; and whatsoever you would have me do for you, let it be set down in writing, and it shall be done.” These and many other gracious speeches “would put all doubts of fair and peaceable entertainment in your ensuing commerce apart, were they not Moors, but the best is to be hoped.” The king's liking of the cloak, and taking it to show his queen. Account of a fight with the Portugals, in which they had between 400 and 500 men slain, burnt, and drowned, and the English lost but four men. The Portugals in treaty of peace with the country, but little hope to effect it. There might have been lading for two ships, but for the loss of time at Surat; various things fit for presents and sale; mastiffs in much request; all died on the voyage but one young dog, which the writer presented to the king, who caused him to fight with a tiger, which he killed; the dog is highly esteemed; some curled water spaniels would be valued by the king, but they must have good usage on the voyage. Great hope of a profitable trade in those parts, so it calls for a continual open hand to keep the king and the gentlemen of his court mindful of them, “and so we are to buy their laws with our monies.” Cloth sold; difference in the measures; what remains at Agra not vendible. Nich. Withington “is lately distracted in his wits,” but whether because of the disgrace of the cloth lying on his hands or because of an accident which befell him in being mistaken and apprehended for a Portugal is not known. Prices of commodities. Colours of cloth which will not keep fast. Money given to Steele and Crouther for their journey to Persia; Steele robbed of all his apparel and necessaries. Letter received from Peter Floris from Masulipatam; calicoes in no request at Bantam or at the Moluccas, there were no English ships there, the James having gone to Siam and Patani, and the Osiander to Priaman, where the English were in some danger from the King of Acheen, but it is hoped the Osiander will carry them away; Floris about to sail for England. Advises to be sent as presents to the king, some two or three faced pictures, “according as you stand to look upon them; they were esteemed in England when they first were devised, but since are little regarded; two or three crossbows, for the Mogul hunts much; three or four Turkey cocks and hens, for he hath two cocks but no hens, and would esteem much their brood; the fight of 88 and Our Saviour's passion; some extraordinary musician or two on the lute and other instruments, with a sweet voice, the king would gladly entertain. The king having given orders for framing a letter to King James, perused it when ready for the seal and interlined it with his own hand, because it did not sufficiently display the titles, honour, and attributes of His Majesty; it is full of princely compliments, and quite satisfactory in the points of their desired commerce; a copy is now inclosed, the original will be sent by the next ships. Sends also copy of a firman for their trade and fair entertainment. The coloured cloths requested. As to the goods and money of John Midnall, deceased, refers the Company to the bearer Richard Steele. [Six pages. O. C., Vol. II., No. 252.] |
Feb. 27.
Aboard the
Solomon,
Swally Road. |
918. Chr. Farewell to Sir Thos. Smythe. Arrived in safety 20th Oct. 1614. Edwardes and the rest left Surat for the court 30th Nov., after many tedious delays from the governor. The writer, Oxwicke, and Ball, first appointed for Baroach; purchases made there. Is now left with Aldworthe at Surat. Good success of their fight with the Portugals. [One page. O. C., Vol. II., No. 253.] |
Feb. 28.
Surat. |
919. Wm. Biddulph to the East India Company. Refers to previous letters. Arrival of Capt. Downton's fleet, and employment of the factors. Dangers which the ships have passed with the Portugals. Time lost through the “slowness of these people;” this may be remedied by having a sufficient stock to provide against the ships coming, there being no need to stay above 40 days at most. Some may show reasons for leaving Surat, but he makes no doubt the Company will well consider before doing so. Hopes the pride of the Portugals is cooled and that they will never molest the English any more, having enough to do to defend themselves against their neighbouring enemies. Credible report that the King of Persia is besieging Ormus to root the Portugals out, “they being hated of all people wheresoever they come.” Has been allowed for three years' service 90l., only sufficient for his apparel; requests their consideration, referring himself wholly to their accustomed liberality. [One page. Indorsed, "Read in Court 2d Dec. 1615." O. C., Vol. II., No. 254.] |
| Feb. 28. |
920. Abstract of the latter part of the preceding. [Ibid., No. 187. p. 6.] |
Feb. 28.
[Surat.] |
921. Thos. Aldworthe and Wm. Biddulph to the East India Company. Refers to former letters sent by the Globe and James. Arrival of Capt. Downton's fleet. Edwardes ordered for Agra Aldworthe to remain at Surat. Factors appointed to go into the country to buy goods, to relade a ship home. Indigo bought at Ahmedabad. Copy of their journal and accounts sent by the Hope. Some things formerly bought kept back to sell again in Surat, being unfit for England. Midnall's goods in the King's hands. Likelihood of good trade at Surat. It is hoped that some quantity of cloth will sell yearly in Agra. Ormus besieged by the Persian. Good trade expected between Bantam and Surat with spices, &c., and from Surat to Jasques in Persia. Commodities unsold Pictures, looking glasses, &c., not fit for sale, but for presents. With a stock of 20,000l. or 25,000l. two ships may be reladen yearly from Surat, and that within 40 days of their first coming. 500l. worth of Lahore indigo shipped aboard the Hector. Withington sick at Agra. Indigo shipped in the Hope. Paul Canninge's books and accounts. Difference between Capt. Best and Aldworthe. [Abstract. One page. O. C., Vol II., No. 187, p. 17:] |
| Feb. 28. |
922. Consultation aboard the Gift. Concerning the disposal of the remainder of the stock of the value of 10,000l., left ashore at Surat in the custody of Thos. Aldworthe; to be sold and the proceeds invested in indigo. Signed by Nich. Downton, Thos. Aldworthe, Thos. Elkington, and Edw. Dodsworthe. [Three quarters of a page. O. C., Vol. II., No. 255.] |
| Feb. 28. |
923. Capt. Downton to Sir Thos. Smythe. Congratulations on the success of the fight with the Portugals. Complaints against Edwardes; Dodsworthe will inform him more at large, and of the violent course he held with his company at Surat. Death of Mr. Ernsworth and Timothy Wood. John Crouther gone with Rich. Steele to Persia. Commendations of Christ. Farewell who is left with Aldworthe, and of Mr. Elkington. Dodsworthe goes with Mollineux in the Hope for England, but for the loitering delays of Edwardes at Ahmedabad, and the Portugals' practices against them, she had been dispatched before. Grieves to think how many of his men are dead. Does not think it convenient to leave any great stock at Surat, because of the wars between the Moors and Portugals, “for Surat is but weakly fenced if it should be violently assaulted.” Sends him a carpet and a quilt, also a couple of antelopes. Thinks it needful since trade at Surat must be worked out by force, notwithstanding the Portugals, that the chief commanders in the Company's voyages should understand martial business. [One page and a quarter. O. C., Vol II., No. 256.] |
