|
|
|
|
April 1.
London.
|
319. John Chamberlain to Sir Dudley Carleton. Great business
agreed upon yesterday between the East Indian and Muscovy
companies for furnishing the Emperor of Russia with a loan of
100,000 marks, whereby they hope to engross the trade in cordage
and other real commodities, and to trade with Persia that way ;
the Muscovy Company, unable to undergo the burthen of the loan
without assistance, both companies to have an equal stock of adventure
for eight years, and for their better encouragement the King
has recalled and delivered into their hands the Scottish [East
India] Patent. [Extract from Domestic. Jac. 1. Vol XCVII., No. 2.,
Cal., p. 532.]
|
|
April 3.
Jacatra.
|
320. Nich. Ufflete to Geo. Ball, at Bantam. A chest of ambergris,
landed by John Peterson, from the French Admiral. The
King has borrowed 100 ryals and wanted to borrow 200 ryals more ;
Ufflete made excuse that he had not money in the house, but
gave him and his son a present. The Dutch have mounted all their
canon in their house, and train their people every Sunday ; knows
not for why. Most of the English lately fallen sick of a burning
fever. [Half a page. O. C., Vol. VI., No. 639.]
|
|
April 5.
Jacatra.
|
321. Nich. Ufflete to Geo. Ball. The French Admiral has laden
some ten buts of rack and all their empty cask with water. The
Dutch President begins to deliver to their mariners their chests and
apparel. The French have given the King a piece of ordnance and
sold him another. [Half a page. O. C., Vol. VI., No. 640.]
|
|
April 6.
London.
|
322. Sir William Lovelace to Carleton. The only novel thing is
this embassy of Sir Dudley Diggs to the Emperor of Muscovy.
His errand is to satisfy the Duke's request for the loan of 100,000 m.
thousand roubles [sic], which is one hundred thousand marks of our
money, which sum is imposed by his Majesty upon the East India
Company, for that other of Muscovy is grown so poor that this of
the East Indies is fain to join partners with it and so share equally
in all dependants. Diggs is to have 40 followers and servants, his
charges defrayed by the Company, and to have the Emperor's reward
and the Company's, which it is guessed will amount to 1,000 marks
apiece ; he told Lovelace that one of his errands was, if levies from
hence were demanded to grant them freely, so good conditions were
proposed for their payment, which he hoped would come from our
own monies. Sir Thos. Dale is long since departed our coast.
[Extract from Domestic, Jac. 1., Vol. XCVII., No. 9., Cal. p. 533.]
|
|
April 10.
|
323. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Opinion that
the Levant Company ought to contribute to the great charge of the
calling in of the Scottish patent, but, hearing Mr. Walter's opinion
that Sir James Cunningham's release here is not sufficient unless it
be made in Scotland, the Court were satisfied with what had been
done already, having had so many gracious assurances of favour
from his Majesty. As to the purchase of Canary wines, for the
next voyage, at 15l. a pipe. Petition of George Scott for consideration
towards his losses in his bargains of indigo refused. Committee
appointed to confer with Sir John Merricke as to the
purchase of a present for the Ambassador (to Muscovy) and cloth
coats for his followers at the Company's charge ; the former Ambassadors
were wont to be feasted at the Company's expense before
their departure, but it was thought fit to give this Ambassador
good content, to make a feast to the Company at his lodgings, when
those who have received New Year's gifts from him may requite
him with presents. The business for the south-west passage, which
it was intended to conceal, having been renewed by another letter,
and messages from his Majesty, who, at an expense of 300l. sent
Sir Thos. Dichington to satisfy himself of the particulars from
Isaac Lameers, [Le Maire] who gave such encouragement that the
King will not have it neglected. Reasons for attempting the
discovery with a ship and a pinnace. Complaint against the farmers
at the Custom House concerning the impost on pepper dust ;
committee appointed to speak with Sir Wm. Garway and the farmers.
Request of Lord Exeter to purchase ten or twelve tons of
timber out of the yard, to build a gallery, refused ; but Goulston,
who provides the Company's timber abroad, may buy some for
him. Articles of agreement with Capt. Wm. Parker, dated 28th
November 1617 ; he is appointed Vice Admiral of the next fleet,
with a salary of 320l. per annum ; also with Sir Thos. Dale, of the
same date, who is appointed Chief Commander, with a salary of 480l.
per annum.
Minutes of a General Court. Sale of commodities with names
of the purchasers and the prices ; also of an adventure of
200l. belonging to Richard Bennett, whereof five payments have
already been made, bought by Randal Cranfield at 17l. per cent.
profit. The Governor made known that the Company were not
ignorant of the reports of a new discovery lately made called the
South Passage or the New Passage, which his Majesty hath granted
by patent unto some. But conceiving how commodious it may he
for his subjects to enjoy the same, hath written a letter to the
Governor on the 1st pres., which is now read, and hath since by
several messages urged to have it dispatched, so that answer cannot
longer be delayed. The King's wish that Sir Thos. Smyth should
take upon himself the Governor's place and move the East India
Company to join either for half or part, forcing nothing, but leaving
it to their own choice. Yet if they think it inconvenient to prosecute
the same, then that Mr. Governor shall associate some others
with himself "(his Majesty being so well affected thereunto as that
he esteems the prosecution thereof a great honor to himself and
that it will prove a great benefit to his subjects)." Question how
the passage might be more commodious to this Company than that
which is already, and whether it may not be a means to infringe
their liberties and privileges. Answer that the strait of Magellan
is very tedious and uncertain, and his Majesty's care of this Company
is shown in many ways, that the Governor is not drawn into it by
the persuasions of those interested but to satisfy the King's command
and pleasure, which he respects. The Governor's care to prevent
many mischiefs threatened against the East India Company
remembered, and the Court of opinion "that it will be fit to be
undertaken by this Company to prevent further mischiefs (being no
new matter but formerly intended by advice of Sir Jas. Lancaster
and others)." "The objections urged were conceived no sufficient
reason to cause the action to be disliked." Committee therefore
appointed to confer with the patentees, examine the business, and
report their opinion to a General Court. Some of the patentees
being of mean esteem, as Bownes and Laineere [Le Maire], it was
wished that the King might be moved to grant the privileges to the
Company, who may make trial next year with a ship and a pinnace.
David Bennett, keeper of St. James', the Prince's house, admitted a
free brother. [Five pages. Court Bk, IV., 153-157.]
|
|
April 12.
[The Hague.]
|
324. Sir Dudley Carleton to Lord Fenton. Has continually
yielded his best assistance to William Carmychell, whose suit with
the States for satisfaction from the East India Company, touching
losses of considerable value sustained in the East Indies, his
Lordship recommended to Carleton at his first coming to the Hague ;
but the effect has been nothing answerable to Carleton's expectation
or desire. [Holland Correspondence.]
|
|
April 14-15
|
325. Court Minutes of the East India Company. The proposition
to join in the discovery of the South-west passage considered. Sir
Thomas Dichington and the other patentees inform the Company
that it is a new passage towards Mare Zur, under the tropics
towards the Isle of Solomon, where the navigators passed by 300
islands, and saw ginger, cloves, and other spices in the hands of the
inhabitants, who are savages. Reasons for not conceiving it fit to
be undertaken by the Company, who hope that the King will not
be discontented with their refusal. This patent was rejected by the
new Scottish company on the opinion of Sir Richard Hawkins that
nothing more was discovered than had been formerly, by him.
Committee appointed to draw up "a fair answer" to his Majesty
that they are ready to attempt the discovery for the honor of his
Majesty and good of the commonwealth, with their reasons, but not
to do it by virtue of the new patent nor yet to join with them
therein. It was also thought fit to let the King know, "as occasion
of speech might be presented," that the Company do not publish all
their discoveries, and therefore to crave his Majesty to forbear
passing any such grants, because all things cannot be followed at
one time, and that the Company had discovered the end of the
patentees was to make profit out of the patent to answer the great
charges they had been at. This answer not to be sent without the
approbation of this Court.
April 15.-Answer to the King's letter, drawn up by the committee
after conference with those interested in the patent of the
South-west passage, to be presented to his Majesty if the Court
approve of it. That by late manifold experience they find all
matters of discovery to be in their beginning full of difficulties,
charge, and dangers, and not to be undertaken but by such as shall
be content to expect retribution of profit after much expense and
many years' patience, yet they are willing, with all possible expedition,
to set out convenient shipping for that discovery, though
they conceive this passage, and all others beyond the Cape of Good
Hope, discovered, or that may be discovered, to be sufficiently and
in express words granted to them in their patent of 31 May 1609 ;
and that in due respect to his Majesty's gracious pleasure, upon
conference with Sir Thos. Dichington and his associates, they are
willing to admit him and the rest of those patentees freely into
their company and council, touching that passage and the benefit
thereon depending. Offer to the patentees, "there are but four of
them," to admit them into this Company. This answer approved,
and because of his Majesty's departure after dinner, dispatched away.
[Two pages and a half. Court Bk., IV., 158-160.]
|
|
April 16.
Aboard the
Hound.
Saddow Road
(Jambi).
|
326. Richard Westby to President Ball at Bantam. Certifies
to the behaviour of the chief men during the voyage ; the Company
in general greatly dislike the master. Has been constantly sick
since he left Bantam, and wishes to return to his own country
Some pepper bought at Jambi, Henry Eltonhead can give particulars.
Mr. Butta would willingly come for Jambi again if he
might go for England next year. One page. Indorsed, "Received
in Bantam 13 May." [O.C., Vol. VI., No. 641.]
|
|
April 16.
Jambi
(Ship Hound).
|
327. Capt. Wm. Polhill to President Ball. Journal of his
voyage since leaving Bantam on 3rd March ; news from two junks
to which he gave chase that there were only two Flemings, a ship
and a pinnace there ; he then dismissed the junks without suffering
the value of a shilling to be taken from them. Arrived at Jambi
3rd April ; great want of water and wood and many of their principal
officers very sick, of whom one quarter have been buried, the rest
are well recovered. Upon consultation with Rich. Westby has taken
in certain decayed goods, list of which he transmits. [Two pages
and three quarters. Indorsed, "Received from Jambi Road 10 May
1618." O. C., Vol. VI., No. 642.]
|
|
April 17.
Aboard the
James,
Jambi Road.
|
328. Edward Longe to President Ball. Arrived 3rd present ;
their purser with [Robt.] Johnson were sent up to Jambi who hardly
escaped the Portugals, these last having eight frigates and leaving the
river after burning thirty towns, and were determined to take
Jambi had not the English pinnace been there ; they sent the King
word that what they did was because of their loss by the Flemings,
who it seems had taken a Portugal frigate and put all the men to
the sword ; the Portugals treacherously give out they have nothing
to do with the English, but the Flemings they will have and purpose
to return hither very shortly. Westby will advise of all matters
concerning the Hound's business. Hopes to depart this day. [Three
quarters of a page. Indorsed, "Received 10 May 1618." O. C.,
Vol VI., No. 643.]
|
|
April 17.
|
329. Court Minutes of the East India Company. The business
of Alice and Ann Walldo to be referred to arbitration. A difference
between Mr. Palmer and Mr. Rud having subsisted a long time, and
the Lord Chancellor desiring the Company's interference for his sake,
the Court, weighing the danger that might ensue by such a precedent,
resolve to have a petition presented to him to explain the truth.
Reasons for accepting an offer of 20,000l. from the East Country
either at 7 or 8 per cent. A committee having been to Court to
present the Company's answer to the King respecting the South-west
passage, his Majesty read the same twice over, and having argued
some points and received satisfaction, replied that he esteemed his
merchants more heroical than to be terrified by dangers in their discoveries
or animated by expenses without present profit ; but to that
point of power which the Company claim by their patent he was a
little amazed, and demanded whether he were like Pope Alexander
who divided and distributed the whole world, conceiving it reasonable
that the right of discoveries should be to such as made them ; but
aiming only at mines, of the discovery of which he has hopeful
expectations, the King's desire is to have the business prosecuted as
soon as possible ; he cares not by whom, so long as it be effected,
that he may not seem to neglect these proffered hopes as his grandfather
did the West Indies ; and understanding that the Company
have already given order to Ethiopia which is the fountain, and
that some few have adventured to Tomecatto, the place whence the
King of Barbary has his gold, it gave him good satisfaction, and he
desired to have this prosecuted with all expedition, and well
approved of the Company offering to take in the new patentees
amongst them. Resolved to respite the matter for a few days,
because of information that if they undertook the discovery all
other Companies would fall off from attempting anything by virtue
of the new patent, that if the Company abandon it, means to the
extent of 20,000l. or 25,000l. will be found to go through with it,
and that Sir Thomas Dichington will procure an order from the
King to prohibit the East India Company proceeding therein ; also
that an answer may be first received from the King to a letter
written by the Governor on the subject. Petition of John Chamberlain
to sell six bags of pepper in town, denied. Petition of the
shipwrights to receive 6d. a ton granted to them by patent upon all
ships above 100 tons, referred. Petition of the nailers against the
introduction of Flemish rod iron into the land, and on behalf of the
patentees to cut English bar iron into small rods fit for nails,
referred. Request of John Holloway and William Bonham concerning
their bills. [Two pages and a half. Court Bk., IV., 160-162.]
|
|
April 18.
Ispahan.
|
330. Edw. Monox to the East India Company. Will briefly
give the Company a little taste of his endeavours in Persia. His
letters by the Bee were no sooner sealed and delivered to John Hatch
than the writer posted towards Moghistan to overtake Blunstone,
Connok's man, which he did at Costack, a day's journey short of
Minau, where Monox left him and arrived at Minau 1st of January.
Found Adam Tanner turned out of possession of the silk and everything
else belonging to Connok, and sealed up by the Sultan ; an
infamous scandal raised that the English were robbers and thieves,
and had carried away all the goods of the Ambassador, as they
styled Connok. The Sultan sent one of his chief men "with some
forty shot" to apprehend all the English at Jask, and to bring
them prisoners to Minau, but meeting Monox two days journey
from Jask, proceeded no further. This was only a villainous
practice of the Sultan to make prey of all the goods there. Detailed
account of his sixteen days proceedings with the Sultan of Minau
of the reason of his long detention by him. Invoice of 71 bales of
silk taken by Geo. Pley, ten bales of which were evidently intended
for Connok's use ; fraudulent doings of Connok's men, Adam
Tanner and William Blunstone. Four hundred ryals of eight
found in Connok's chest sealed up in a bag ; has delivered them
and all things else to Thos. Barker, and knows now that he has
done Tanner no wrong. The goods of Connok, Tracy, and Pley
all sold. Commendations of George Pley ; he had the reputation
of an honest man and of one that lived an unblemished
life. Barker's character wholly composed of pride, envy, sloth, and
gluttony. Will vouch that he has cost the Company upwards of
1,000 dollars given in presents and spent in housekeeping, by
settling the factory at Shiraz without either judgment or discretion.
Barker induced Capt. Childe, master of the ship, to return with the
goods to Surat and leave Connok and the rest without money or
means ; he also proclaimed that Connok had not any commission
from the King to treat with the Sophy upon any capitulations,
which the Portugal friars informed the King, who caused his
Majesty's letter brought by Connok to be compared with that brought
by Sir Robert Sherley, and finding them to be like, granted capitulations.
Thinks that although defective in some points these
capitulations may in a short time produce a very beneficial trade.
The English translation sent from Jask clean contrary in a
material point or two to the true translation inclosed. All the
Company's factors said to be young and vicious. Prices of both
English and Persian commodities current in Ispahan at present.
The azer or piece of gold contains 20 shahees, and 10 azers make a
toman. The lighter and more pleasant colours of cloth have the
best sale. Annexes the nearest estimate he can gather of the
quantities of silk made in the several cities of Persia. His intended
proposal to the King to take 8,000 bales of Persian silk for which
the quantities of cloth set down should be given in exchange. No
profit to be made on cinnamon, mace, and nutmegs from thence.
Unless he can contract with the King, fears the trade will not be
driven without great sums of money. Connok's offer to the Sophy
was one third in money and two thirds in English and Indian
commodities. Note of the things which the King desires out of
England ; these include guns, armour, coaches and coachmen, sword
blades, turkeys, fowls, dogs of various breeds, a skilful falconer,
terrestrial and celestial globes of English make, beautiful pictures, a
clock, watches, and looking glasses. Cannot now send a copy of the
King's phirmaund, so begs them to rest satisfied with the substance ;
the King has remitted the payment of all customs, acknowledging
that it was never his meaning to tie them to the payment of any.
The King's letter to Connok, a very gracious letter ; he promises the
English nation all his kingdom can afford, and has more fully
expressed by three several phirmaunds. The King sorrowful at
the news of the death of Connok and the rest of their people, and
vows to have better inquiry made touching the same. They have
been in expectation of the King's coming ever since their arrival
at Ispahan, but as that is uncertain, has thought good to dispeed
Francis Tipton for India, when they purpose repairing to the King
with all possible expedition. Their business ended with the
King, will dispatch to their Honors and to India ample advices
of the success of their hopeful designs. [Indorsed, "Received by
William Nelson 21 October 1618." Seven pages. O.C., Vol V.,
No. 586.]
|
|
April 23.
|
331. Minutes of a Court of Commissioners of the East India and
Muscovy Companies. Letters read from Connok from Persia of
2nd June and 4th, 5th August 1617, [see ante, Nos. 91, 122, 124,]
mentioning a packet of letters sent at same time, but not received.
Question as to the prosecution of the trade ; judgment suspended
until receipt of the principal letter ; an answer in the mean time to
be returned to Connok so that the Emperor may see he is not
neglected, informing Connok that he should be seconded with commodities
and shipping if the Company had any certain grounds to
proceed upon and knew what to provide, but for want of his letters
this is not known. The letter to be written before Sir Dudley
Diggs' departure for Muscovy that the Ambassador may, if necessary,
expostulate with the Emperor to allow a messenger to pass through
Muscovy by the Volga with the letter ; Giles Hobbes to be employed
in that service. Other letters to be sent by way of Aleppo which
may be with Connok within five months. [Three quarters of a
page. Court Bk., IV., 162-3.]
|
|
April 24.
Pooloroon.
|
332. Nathaniell Courthoppe to President Ball. His last told of
the hard fortune befallen to their ships bound hither this year. The
Thomas not heard of since 25 March. Account of a fight within
five leagues of Pooloroon, between four Holland ships and the Attendance
and Solomon ; the English being so overmatched, yielded.
Had Courthoppe been in Cassarian (David's) place, he would have
"sunk down right in the sea" before he would have struck his
colours. The English and some Bandanese secretly armed themselves
with swords, and when the Hollanders came aboard, at least
40 of them were slaughtered, and more hurt, which was mostly done
by two of the Bandanese only ; at last, being taken, the Hollanders
killed 12 and saved 7 men of the youngest of them alive. Had the
English ships been one day sooner, they had got in in spite of the
Hollanders. These last, in Neira Road, wore the English ships'
colours at their ships' sterns in disgrace of the English nation.
Marvels Ball should send so weak a force this year, when he knows
the force of the Flemings, the tyranny they use towards the English
when they get the upper hand, and that they use all possible means
to bar the English from all trade. If Ball means the Company to have
any trade in these islands, such forces must be sent as there are, or
all will be lost and not to be expected hereafter. Complains that
he has but 38 men to withstand the Hollanders' force and tyranny.
Their wants are extreme ; they have neither victuals nor drink,
only rice and water. Is determined to hold out until the next
westerly monsoon, or else all to die in defence of the place. Great
Dutch force ready to come against them ; the English must not let
go of the footing they have in Pooloroon. The Oran Kayes demanded
of Courthoppe whether he intended to stand out this year, and upon
being told yes, offered the surrender of all the island of Lantar,
which he purposes to accept, relying this year upon assistance and
forces from the President of Bantam. David writes, by permission
of the Hollanders, to persuade Courthoppe to go over to confer with
them concerning composition which he has promised to do. Has
not so much as received any letter or advice from Ball since the
writer's first coming to these islands. News from the Lantar men
daily of the Hollanders' preparations to assault the English, which,
to the uttermost of his power, Courthoppe is making provision to
withstand. Begs relief by the first winds, and not to defer it till
the last of the monsoon, which was the cause of the loss of the
English ships this year. [Two pages and a half. Indorsed,
"Received 4 July 1618." O. C., Vol. VI., No. 644.]
|
|
April 24.
|
333. Court Minutes of the East India Company. The King
desirous to have the new discovery [of the South-west passage]
effected, but yet loth to overthrow their patent, and seeing their
patentees will not join with this Company, a month's respite is given
to the patentees to see what they can or will do. Whether Martyn
shall be cashiered for his dishonest courses. Sir Robert Anstruther
allowed to adventure 1,000l., conditionally that he will keep and
not sell it. Sir John Wielde's stock not to be accepted for Holloway's
debt. Petition concerning Withington to be presented to the Lord
Chancellor. [One page. Court Bk., IV., 163-164.]
|
|
April 25.
The Hague.
|
334. Carleton to Sec. Lake. Somewhat of no light consideration
has happened betwixt our English and the Hollanders in the isles
of Banda, two English ships being taken in fight, 10 or 12 men
slain, and many hurt. The Hollanders impute the cause to our men
assisting the enemy with munition of war, and hindering them by
force, at Pooloway, from dealing for nutmegs and mace. Believes,
when the other side is heard, that all things will not go so clear as
these men make it, as it seems that restitution of ships and damages
was offered afterwards by the Hollanders to our men at Bantam and
refused, and the matter referred to be heard in these parts. The
particulars are kept from Carleton, but he hopes, within a few days,
to understand more exactly what passed. [Extract from Holland
Correspondence.]
|
|
April 25.
The Hague.
|
335. Carleton to Chamberlain. Understands of a bickering
betwixt our men and the Hollanders, in the Moluccas, wherein we
have lost two ships. It is to be feared that the Spaniards and Portuguese
will enter into their ancient possessions by this breach if it
be not soon made up. Sees not how that can well be with our
honour, though they here say our men were chiefly in fault. [Extract
from Holland Correspondence.]
|
|
April 26.
Crowda,
[?Brodera.]
"Sunday night,
if the rains have
not washed away
a day."
|
336. Sir Thos. Roe to [Thos. Kerridge], agent at Surat. Met
his two servants and missed his own, but now has all he expected.
Shall be at Baroach on Tuesday night, when Kerridge shall be
welcome to the remainder of his wine. Finds the price of his pearls
"as far below the Court, as the profit of laying out money two months
will ask." Will not consent to his paying Isaac Beage anything. "If
he dare tell the Prince, I will have right for all injuries, and that
upon his ship." Steele, doubtless, has had a fall ; he followed Roe
to Burrampoor ; pities him, whether he take it or no. Perceives a
good supply has been sent to Ahmedabad ; has not heard from Agra.
Muddo will return within 10 days to Ahmedabad ; he trusts, with
good news. Has sent Sprage to Gul Chanda (? Golconda) for good
reasons. Salbancke should have prosecuted Roe's order, which was
indeed more needful than the Red Sea, without Roe's knowledge.
Could not conceive there was any need of more help at Agra, when
the number he appointed was lessened by one ; Capt. Shilling has
neither bill nor copy of the debts ; Fetiplace of opinion they had
been recovered, if prosecuted, last year, and so is Roe. If the cloth
gone for Agra had such another wetting as Roe is waiting against,
it might be dry in a river. [One page and a half. O. C., Vol. VI.,
No. 645.]
|
|
April 27.
Jacatra.
|
337. N. Ufflete to President Ball. Goods sold either by the
French or Dutch at half their value. Carpenter gone for Bantam.
The Dutch ships continue at the island. The small pinnace lading
with porcelain for Succadana. [Half a page. O. C., Vol VI.,
No. 646.]
|
|
April 27.
Amsterdam.
|
338. Matthew Slade to Carleton. The advocate of the Indian
Society, M. Coen, is sent to the Hague with all the advertisements,
to make report of that unlucky fight to the States, the particulars
of which are to be communicated to Carleton. Mons. Bas speaks of
the great need of a combination with the English Company ; told
him that it was especially one man's fault that the union was not
made when his Majesty's Commissioners were here. Hopes that
this one and other like officers of Grotius will one day come in
consideration. [Extract from Holland Correspondence.]
|
|
April ?
|
339. Thos. Barker to Sir Thos. Roe. Acknowledges receipt of
his commission, instructions, and other papers of 6 Oct. 1617, (see
ante, Nos. 155, 156,) and his appointment of chief manager of
these Persian employments, in case of Edward Connok's death or
miscarriage. Immediately conferred with Monox and Tipton, who
had arrived at the port of Jask on 6 December, in the Bee, which
was despatched for Surat on 30 December, and determined, for
reasons expressed in a consultation held at Shiraz, (transcript of
which, with all other consultations, are inclosed,) that they would
repair to Emanguolyque Khan and solicit from him justice against
Sulpheckaure Sultan, his substituted governor, of all the sea coast
from the port of Jask to the port of Ormuz, who had offered them,
contrary to the tenour of the King's phirmaund, many insufferable
injuries. Could not proceed on their journey until 12 February,
because of the delay in the arrival of the camels from Lar, and
the King's capitulations, which they wished to take with them.
Travelled five days. The Khan being on his hunting progress, were
desired to deliver their complaints without an audience, but would
not do so, and were promised audience at Shiraz. Their complaints
read in their presence to the Khan, who commanded that the Sultan
should repay the money, about 80l. sterling, which he had received
of Connok for three horses, not worth about 10l., and make restitution
of the cloths given to purchase their release ; also of the
money charged for camel hire above the usual rate. Their complaint
about detaining the silk at Moghistan, the Khan said was the sole
act of Lalabeg, the King's treasurer, and trivial, but granted his
phirmaund for prohibiting any similar detention in future, and gave
express orders to lend every assistance to whatever they desired
concerning the restitution. Returned to Ispahan on 4 March. Has
been engaged with Connok, Pley, and Bell in taking inventories
and making sales of the goods of Wm. Tracy, deceased. Will first
give a taste of last year's proceedings, managed by Connok, "which
will have so ill a relish in the palate of any discreet man, that we
know you will spit it out again." Having despatched the James
from Jask, 19 January 1617, they set out for Moghistan, where
the goods were housed ; here Connok, notwithstanding his many
large presents to the Sultan, could not procure camels, and was forced
to leave the goods for Barker and others to bring up, Connok departing
for Shiraz to complain to the Khan and obtain his phirmaund
for their release. Connok's "slow speed,"-15 days' riding to Shiraz,
travelling as the King's ambassador, and spending the Company's
money so profusely, that the camel men reported he, valued money
as dirt. Connok's "more choleric than discreet" behaviour in trying
to procure their release from imprisonment, going to the Khan's gate,
who, being with his women, denied him audience, and his "high
strained" speeches, that he was not only come to treat of buying and
selling, but that the perpetual welfare or utter ruin and subversion of
the Persian empire depended on his employment. At their arrival
at Shiraz, Barker, Pley, Bell, and Pettus wrote to Connok, persuading
him to desist from the further prosecution of such indirect
and sinister courses. Connok exasperated with Barker in consequence.
Copy of part of his letter dated from Shiraz; 25 May 1617,
to Connok, at Ispahan, in answer to imputations in Connok's letter
of 8th current. Hopes this will make it sufficiently apparent with
what pains and diligence he endeavoured to bring up the goods to
Shiraz. Had not been many days there before they received letters
from Connok at Ispahan, ordering Barker's stay at Shiraz, and to
settle a factory there, sending money by Wm. Bell, with "his
groundless advice" as to sorts and quantities of goods which would
be vendible. Determined, nevertheless, on sending up the goods
which they gathered were vendible to most profit. Connok's rancour
and indignation for this digression from his prescribed order, his
letter to the factors at Surat, accusing Barker of sundry trivial
untruths ; but "the record of mine own conscience is to me a sufficient
antidote against such poisonful, false, and malicious detractions."
None who know him (Connok) will give credit to his writings. An
instance of the truth of this in his letter to the Company, wherein
he accuses Captain Pepwell of being confederate with others in
running away with the Unicorn, though there, was never so much as
a whisper of it throughout the whole fleet ; the reason plain, Captain
Pepwell having taxed Connok "to have practised the taking away
of his life by poison." Letters and papers discovered at Connok's
death, which he had broken open ; among them, a letter from Sir
Thos. Roe to the Sophy, dated from Ajmere, 14 February 1616.
Connok's needless stay at Ispahan, after the arrival of the goods.
Remarks on the capitulations he obtained from the. King ; some of
the articles they will endeavour to have confirmed ; others of so
trivial a nature, that they shall omit them in their next treaty with
the King. Particulars of silk received from Lalabeg, the King's
treasurer, in lieu whereof he is to take cloth. Comments on this
account ; on the preposterous haste with which their cloth has been
bartered away at a far less rate than it was worth, ready money,
and the unvendible and ill conditioned silk taken in exchange, "that
it had been much more beneficial for the Company to have wanted
the first year's return (as, by the event, they have done,) than to
have admitted of such a precedent." Connok's expenses ; he is
indebted about 1,000l. sterling to the Company ; it is imagined
there is money packed in the bales of silk which his servant Adam
Tanner cannot be ignorant of ; intend finding out the truth when
they get to Moghistan. Connok's stratagems to arrive at Ispahan
before Barker, whom he plotted to detain at Shiraz. Occurrences
during Connok's passage to Jask ; his "needless fear" of the
Spanish Ambassador, on coming in sight of whom he "set spurs to
his horse and with as much speed as their horses could carry them
directed their course towards an adjacent village to the great
disreputation of our King and nation, he being in the opinion of
these people an Ambassador." In his letter to Barker he certified
the cause to be an apprehension that the Spanish Ambassador
intended to have seized and murdered him, of which scandal the
Ambassador professed to be much grieved that they being Christians
should raise such false scandal on each other to the disgrace of the
Christian profession, and that he should be ready to do any service
in his power for the subjects of the King of Great Britain with
whom the King of Spain had concluded a perpetual peace, league,
and amity. Folly of taking a greater quantity of silk than there
were means in the country to pay for, the Sultan not allowing any
silk to be put aboard the Bee. A cursory survey of the expenses
of the Ispahan factory has been taken which amount in less than
one year to 3,000l. ; the presents alone given by Connok amounting
to 800l. He died at Gaytoun on 24 Dec. 1617 "his life and death
may be drawn into this short epitome : he lived an Atheist and died
a Papist." Wm. Tracy died on 27 December and George Pley at
Jask on 4 December 1617. Suspicion of poison ; Connok reported
that Monox had poisoned him, but there was no appearance
that they died other than natural deaths. Particulars of their
goods registered in the consultations. On the exceeding benefit of
establishing a trade in these parts and the hopes of obtaining from
the King the enjoyment of it even on the conditions sent to them
in writing by the Company and Sir Thos. Roe. Answers to the
several objections made by the Company concerning the benefit and
possibility of obtaining this trade ; the silks of Persia may be
transported by sea into England at less charge than by the way of
Turkey ; the port of Jask assigned to them by the King is free
of either of the inconveniences expressed, for by raising a fort
there, as they have no doubt the King will be easily induced to do
and maintaining it at his own proper cost and charges, the English
ships may ride free from the least molestations or stratagems of the
Portugals ; no reason why there should be delay in settling a trade
in these parts ; it cannot be contradicted that Persia hath and doth
at present vend but a small quantity of English cloth, about 400 or
500 cloths annually, yet the reason is not the heat of this climate
for it is as cold both for extremity and permanency as France,
England, and other parts of Christendom which have more northerly
latitude. Will contract with the King of Persia for 8,000 bales of
silk of 180 pounds avoirdupois per bale, according to the Company's
injunction, which they calculate will not be less in stowage than about
1,000 tons ; it is an undoubted truth that the silk made in Persia
will yearly amount to 1,000,000l., but half of it has not yearly
been exported, being spent and wrought in Persia in making
sundry sorts of stuffs. Cannot fathom the King of Spain's intent;
whether he be determined to undertake the transport of such a
quantity of silk as is made in Persia or no ; however probable that
the King may treat with other Princes for diverting the trade of his
silk other ways than through the Turk's dominions because he
would impoverish his enemy by exhausting such an annual treasure
yet as to a peace being concluded with the great Turk, there is no
appearance of it at present, neither is the King so effeminate or
such a lover of peace, that he will make peace on dishonourable
terms ; the King of Persia will expect in reason no other security
for the yearly exportation and payment for the quantity of silk
agreed for, than that there be continually resident an English
Ambassador whose expenses will be between 600l. and 700l . per
annum ; it is altogether improbable that the Spanish Ambassador
now lately arrived in Persia is sent to procure a fort on the Persian
shore to supply the wants of the barren island of Ormuz with
fresh water, victuals, &c. ; it is not understood that they should
take all the silks brought to the mart town assigned to them
though they think all would be less than the 800 bales specified in
the Company's order ; they have already given their opinions of
the Spaniard's undertaking this trade, yet they are of so insolent,
proud, arrogant, and aspiring a disposition that though happily
they have no use of this trade, yet they may undertake it so as to
make all Christendom attend at their doors for it ; they are sufficiently
resolved that England does not spend the tenth part of the
Persian silk, yet they make no question but they may vend it to
the French, Dutch, and other neighbouring nations who have
formerly been supplied from Aleppo. After conference and treaty
with the King they will be prepared to give their opinions more
maturely and to better satisfaction, which shall be dispatched to
Sir Thos. Roe. Answers to the Company's limitation sent by Sir
Thomas ; as to the distance of the several places, where the silks
are made, from the port of Jask ; the commodiousness of the
assigned port of Jask ; the yearly quantity of silk exported
from Persia and the ordinary current price in these parts ; the
charge of carrying the silk to the port. Concerning the three
articles to be propounded in their treaty with the King of Persia
and which the Company inserted in their limitation ; the customs
to be paid in Persia, the procuring of a secure port, and inducing
the King to take all English commodities specified at the prices set
down. Their opinion touching Roe's instructions [dated 6 Oct.
1617, see ante, No. 156]. It only remains for them to show by
what means this trade, yet in embryo, may receive both life and
growth ; this will come to pass by the profits and benefits arising
from the sale of foreign goods in Persia and the export of
commodities from thence to such ports and places where they are
vendible to most profit which the following particulars will
demonstrate. List of goods originally to be had in Persia and
vendible in England, with the prices ; these include silks, the names
of the places where made and the quantities ; rhubarb, musk, carpets,
velvets, satins, damasks, taffetas, gold and silver cloths, bezoar
stones, opium, fruits. Also particulars of commodities originally to
be had in Persia and vendible in India ; of goods brought out of
India and vendible in Persia ; these last include steel, ginger, sugar,
all kinds of preserves, saffron, gumlac, indigo, copper, iron,
camphor, sugar candy, opium, tamarinds, paper, cords, and cotton
wool ; of southern commodities vendible in Persia ; these include
pepper and all kinds of spices, china dishes, and all sorts of china
ware, tin, sandal and log wood, camphor, ginger ; of English
commodities vendible in Persia ; all sorts of cloths, tin, brass, morse
teeth, Muscovy hides, vermilion, quicksilver, lead, coney skins,
cochineal, coral beads, iron, copper, sword blades. Particulars
received by Connok from one of the King's nearest attendants,
supposed to be most acceptable to present to the King ; if any such
be brought to Surat in the ensuing year's fleet, they request orders
may be given to send them to these parts ; armour of proof complete
both for the King and his horse ; coach or carriage with
furniture, and a coachman that knows how to manage and drive
horses ; clocks, watches, and horizontal dials which may answer to
the latitude of Ispahan ; looking-glasses ; dogs of all kinds, game
cocks and hens, peacocks, maps, and pictures, bearing the resemblance
either of man, woman, or other creatures drawn to the life,
are much desired by the King. Account of the weights of Persia,
of the coins current there, and of the measures in use. Nothing
remains for the perfect accomplishment of this trade but his Lordship's
presence in these parts ; they know his zeal for the good of
England's commonwealth in general and the benefit of their masters
in particular, therefore think it needless to be importunate in beseeching
his presence amongst them. In confident assurance of his
arrival this ensuing year they intend procuring the King's phirmaund
that his charges shall be borne by the country. Sundry
particulars in which Richard Steele's information is not correct.
English beams, scales, and weights, necessary to prevent cozenage
in the weight of the silk. [Forty-four pages. Imperfect ; the last
part wanting. O. C., Vol. VI., No. 792.] Incloses,
|
|
339. I. Minutes of Consultations held at Shiraz and Ispahan
between 2 February and 13 March 1618, as follows :
Feb. 2.-At Shiraz, present Thos. Barker, chief merchant, Edw.
Monox, and Fras. Tipton. Barker appointed by Sir Thos. Roe, his
Majesty's Ambassador to the Great Mogul, chief manager of the
East India Company's affairs in Persia. Reasons why Adam
Tanner should remain at Moghistan. Valuables found on Wm.
Blundestone, servant to Edw. Connok deceased, and alleged to
have been given to Blundestone by Connok, seized to the use of
the Company, to which Connok "is supposed to be much indebted
and therefore in equity requisite that he should first pay his debts
before he gave gifts." Proposal to dissolve the factory either
at Shiraz or Ispahan ; resolved to make Ispahan the place of
their residence at least for the present year and to capitulate with
the King for a convenient mart town to be appointed for the
English ; all the merchandise remaining at Shiraz to be taken to
Ispahan ; resolved that Ispahan is the fittest place from whence
to direct their advice for India. Complaint to be made to the Khan
against the Sultan of Minau for taking away part of their goods
and detaining the rest. As to Sir Thos. Roe's orders limiting the
expenses of their housekeeping.
March 6.-At Ispahan, present Thos. Barker, cape merchant,
Wm. Bell, Edw. Monox, Edw. Pettus. Reasons for not admitting
Francis Tipton one of the Council. Resolved not to deliver, because
of its ancient date, the Lord Ambassador Roe's letter to the King of
Persia, dated 14 Feb. 1615-6, which had been intercepted and
opened by and was found among the papers of the late Edw.
Connok who treated with this King as an absolute and immediate
Ambassador from the King of England. Monox to give up the
papers he found in the chests of Connok and Pley deceased, and
copies of such of Connok's letters as he had written against
Barker and Bell that they might, if needful, give answers thereto.
Inventory of goods belonging to Edw. Connok deceased, in
Gaytoun, a village in the Persian territories, the 24 December 1617,
with the prices they were sold for, Francis Tipton and Wm. Blundestone,
late Connok's servant, being also present, some of which
Blundestone challenged as of right belonging to Adam Tanner and
himself, having been given to them by their deceased master, but
not producing any testimony, it was determined to dispose of those
goods also and refer them to the Company's resolution. Inventory
of goods, with the prices they were sold for, belonging to George
Pley who deceased in Jask 2 December 1617. Similar inventory,
the goods being delivered to John Fletcher, purser of the Bee, and
consigned to the cape merchant of Surat to dispose of. Inventory of
goods, with the prices they were sold for, belonging to Wm. Tracy
who deceased in Gaytoun 26 Dec. 1617.
March 7.-At Ispahan, present Thos. Barker, cape merchant, Wm.
Bell, Edw. Monox, and Edw. Pettus. Books and papers found in
the chests of George Pley examined ; letters found subscribed by
Pley and Pettus containing charges against the cape merchant
which Pettus was told he should either justify "his said false
accusations or else (as often he had done) deny his own hand by
subscribing to the contrary." Concerning the admittance of Fras.
Tipton to this consultation. Desire of the cape merchant that a
letter from Barker and Bell from Shiraz, 25 May 1617, wherein
Barker frees himself from certain false yet trivial imputations,
wherewith Connok, Pley, &c. had taxed him, should be put upon
the register.
March 9.-At Ispahan ; present Thos. Barker, Wm. Bell, Edw.
Monox and Fras. Tipton. Concerning the disorderly carriage of
Edw. Pettus, his drunkenness, blasphemy, and immorality "with
these infidel women," for which he is dismissed the Council and
Fras. Tipton admitted. List of copies of the letters sent to and
written by Geo. Pley to be sent to Sir Thos. Roe.
March 10.-At Ispahan ; present Thos. Barker, Wm. Bell, Edw.
Monox, and Fras. Tipton. Concerning the examination of the books,
letters, and papers found in Edw. Connok's chest ; those which affect
the Company's business to be sent by the next sea conveyance to
England. A letter without date from Adam Tanner to his master
Edw. Connok, at Gaytoun, where it was received the day after
Connok's decease was thought by the Council to be written in such
a strange and unwonted strain that they, supposing it concerned the
disposal of some money in the custody of Tanner, ordered it to be
revealed by none.
March 13.-At Ispahan ; present Thos. Barker, Wm. Bell, Edw.
Monox, and Fras. Tipton. Answer of Edw. Monox to the account
required of him of the moneys found in the chests of Connok and
Pley. Concerning the revoking of an act decreed at a consultation
held at Moghistan, 31 December 1616, that all the English in the
factories, servants to the Company, should yearly take sufficient
cloth at the price it cost in England to apparel themselves. Reasons
for awaiting at Ispahan the arrival of the King, who is expected
in about twenty days ; and whether in the interim they should
advise for India ; resolved to defer writing until they had obtained
trade on the conditions expressed in Sir Thos. Roe's instructions,
"and so the consultation ended." [Twenty-six and a quarter pages.
O. C., Vol. V., No. 606.]
|
|
April 28.
Ispahan.
|
340. Thos. Barker and Wm. Bell to Thos. Kerridge at Surat.
Refer to their letter to Sir Thos. Roe for a particular account of their
proceedings in the Company's affairs in Persia, who they doubt not
will send Kerridge a transcript. Received his letter of 9 Nov. 1617
at Shiraz in the following January. Believe bribery was used to
make out that the prize they took belonged to the Governor of Surat,
the better to recover damages against the English. Ample supplies
required to prevent "this trade the hopefullest without exception that
ever England enjoyed" from falling to irrecoverable ruin ; the death
wound to it caused by Connok's profuse and inconsiderate management
of these Persian negotiations. They are not only destitute of
money, commodities, and credit, but fifteen hundred pounds in debt.
Will follow Sir Thos. Roe's instructions in every particular. Concerning
Kerridge's reasons for not sending a supply this year, the
letter to Kerridge and Rastell of 15 May last (see ante No. 74),
and the accusations against Barker ; he (Barker) has always been of
such an austere carriage, and so far from taking delight in any
licentious entertainment, has neglected even lawful recreations ;
instances of Connok's vicious way of living. Connok met the
Spanish ambassador not very far from Ormuz, from whom he very
manfully ran away, to the perpetual dishonour of his Majesty and
the English nation. In reference to disposal of the goods, and the
giving of presents. Admits having abused Connok to his face, but
details the provocation he received. If any man think Barker has
transgressed the bounds of charity, let him know that charity hath
first respect to a man's self, and but that Barker's reputation was
called into question, he should have been content to have interred
Connok's vices with his body. In great want of a sufficient linguist,
those in Persia being so wholly addicted to drunkenness. Thinks
Jaddow very fit for such an employment if he might be spared.
Pean, who served Edwardes at the Mogul's Court, died at Jask.
In favour of John Goodwin's abilities. Have delivered their journal
and accounts to Ed. Monox. Sends original of waste book kept by
himself at Surat, and other papers [wanting], by Fras. Tipton.
Purpose going to Kasbin to speak with the King. Utterly destitute
of paper, quills, and ink. [Six pages and a half. O. C., Vol. VI.,
No. 647.]
|
|
April 28.
|
341. Court Minutes of the East India Company. A tent, intended
as a present to the Prince, but, refused by him, given to the
Governor "to take the air therein this summer in the country."
John Awberye and Humphrey Browne, brethren of the East India
Company, admitted into the Muscovy Company. Order concerning
Lutterforg's debts. The Countess of Derby having neglected to
pay in 800l. she had leave to write for, by reason of her lord's
death, to be allowed to do so, which she intends for her grandchild,
conditionally that she does not sell it. Those who have been
admitted gratis not to be allowed to sell more of their adventures
than they have paid in. Sale of the adventure of Sir John Villiers
to Sir Lionel Cranfield to be confirmed, he being ready to perform
any good offices for the Company, though no part has as yet been
paid in by Sir John. Petition of Thomas Harvye to be a free
brother refused. Dividend to be received on the joint stock. Sir
Marmaduke Darrell, Sir Allan Apsley, and the rest of the green
cloth to have a meeting about satisfying the Scottish Company for
the remainder taken from them by the East India and Muscovy
companies. Letter read from the Low Countries importing the
differences between the English and the Dutch concerning the
islanders of Pooloroon, with "many untruths to colour the proud
and insolent carriage of the Dutch towards the English, which they
have ever most maliciously and injuriously prosecuted without any
sparks of religion, honesty, or common civility." [One page and a
half. Court Bk., IV., 164-166.]
|
|
April 30.
[The Hague.]
|
342. Carleton to [Becher, Cottington, and Wake]. There has
been some small bickering in the Moluccas between these men and
ours, in which the English lost two ships and five or six men. They
say our men gave the first cause of quarrel, but the circumstance of
the Hollanders conducting our ships after they were taken to
Bantam, and offering restitution and reparation, which was refused,
shows the case not to be so clear as these men would make it.
[Extract from Holland Corresp.]
|
|
April.
[The Hague.]
|
343. Carleton to Sec. Lake. His often and earnest instance in
behalf of William Carmychel, a Scotchman, who has had a suit
hanging four years for satisfaction from the Dutch East India Company,
for goods taken from him in 1612 at Hitto in the Moluccas.
The seven judges selected from the high courts by the States to
determine the matter now make the question, whether the goods
were taken from Carmychel in time of truce or war with the Portugals,
a point of decision, as if they were taken in time of war
they are to be adjudged good prize. Carmychel protests against
this, and claims his rights as a subject of his Majesty, and has
desired Carleton to certify the point to his Majesty, and his determination
to appeal to his Majesty for such further remedy as the
justice and equity of his cause may require. [Holland Corresp.]
|
