|
Nov. 3.
Batavia. |
338. Richard Hasellwood to Robert Johnson, chief merchant at
Jambi. Thanks him for the sale of his small parcel of steel. Has
paid Stevinton 20 ryals of eight. The Exchange is taking in the
Moon's pepper, and is to be dispeeded away with the Elizabeth.
President Fursland has departed this life, and Brockedon by succession taken his place. [Half a page. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1123.] |
| Nov. 3–11. |
339. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Consideration
how to reward the merit of [John] Phelps, howsoever William Taylor
seemed to be a competitor with Phelps for his good service in the
pinnace Richard, wherewith the Portugal ship was taken, also for
his successful shooting at the Castle of Chisme [Kishme] when he
dismounted a piece of ordnance, and for being the first that entered
the Isabella of Goa; Phelps is rewarded with 25l. and conceived
fit to go master in one of the pinnaces now building. Capt. Blythe
of opinion it were better to buy Malabar frigates than to build
pinnaces here. Mr. Wylde, propounded for a factor, attended to
know the Company's pleasure; he was well reported of, "only he
had played once for a great sum," and kept greyhounds, and it
was thought meet to refer the answer till Mr. Strowd might be
present. Occasion was taken to blame the "unsecrecy" of the
Court, because things spoken in Court are delivered upon the Exchange. The gentleman that solicited Capt. Bonner's business
presses for a gratification, but the former resolution not to give any
was confirmed. Mr. Deputy declared to Mr. Methwold the resolution
of the Court to abate out of his entertainment 150l., but he referred
himself to a second consideration after he should have presented
a declaration of what had passed, the Court being of opinion to
examine him on new interrogatories concerning Ball. Mr. Steele
read certain observations of his own concerning the Persian trade
and the waterworks projected by himself; Mr. Deputy observed
that he attributed too much to himself concerning business at the
Magore's Court, and for the waterworks it had been debated in
Sir Thomas Roe's presence; the matter was referred. Mr. Browne
willing to go in the third ship, demands 12l. per month, but the
Court would enlarge themselves no further than to 8l., which he,
not accepting, was left to consider till next Court. Examination of
complaints against Mr. Hurte touching moneys received by him
from Mathias Waterhouse, Elizabeth Hodges, Robert and Elizabeth
Peadle, Michael Ungle, and others; the business left for further
consideration. Mr. Prusson's business to be heard this day sevennight. |
|
Nov. 3.—Minutes of a meeting of the "committees for broakes."
Mr. Crispe propounded that the same course may be held as in the
plantations in Ireland, which is to say, interest on so much of the
sum underwritten as is not brought in, and the party that so fails
to stay his "divisions." The delinquents in not paying in their
adventures were then distinguished into three sorts, viz., 1, insolvents,
and towards such it was conceived cruelty to use extremity; 2,
widows and orphans, who have no ability to supply what is underwritten; 3, those that are able, yet purposely lye in wait and will
not bring in, and to such no favour is to be shown. Discussion
thereon; some of opinion to deal justly towards all without respect of
persons, others to divide into two sorts those that are decayed and
those that are able, and to impose upon these last 16, 18, or 24 per
cent.; no precedent of any delinquent yet made, whether executors
are to supply adventures of testators. Petition of Messrs. Mosely
and Isaac Sutton read, pretending losses and casualties had disabled
them to supply their adventures; referred to further consideration.
Request of Thomas Dent for mitigation of brokes, he promised to
make good all payments before Christmas; to have as much favour
as any other: he also requested to be one of the Company's auditors,
but was answered that no delinquents would be put in election.
Mr. Banckes put the Court in mind that being executor to Mr. Dalby,
he had been a suitor on June 16, 1620, that whereas Mr. Dalby had
underwritten 2,000l., whereof 750l. paid in, no more be expected;
but was answered that the money paid in must make good the
damage of the payments not brought in. Resolved to report to the
General Court that it were fit to send out tickets and limit the time
by the end of November, and in case of default those able should
have the broke charged to their account without favour, and others
to be considered of. |
|
Nov. 4.—Instructions to be drawn and sent over to Misselden and
Barlow, the Company's commissioners with the Dutch. Peter Bell
entertained to go purser in the Eagle; George Smith, purser's mate
in the Star; and John Boulter and John [? George] Lilly, stewards in
this fleet. Sir Thomas Smythe acquainted the Court that Lady Dale
petitioned the King, that the Company doth her wrong by detaining monies and goods of her late husband Sir Thomas Dale, and his
Majesty had referred it to the Commissioners of the Navy. She
now presses for publication of the depositions of her witnesses "a
company of idle fellows," and Sir Thomas Smythe offered on behalf of
the commissioners to examine witnesses, also on the part of the
Company. The Court did not a little wonder at the unreasonable
pretences of Lady Dale, and were sorry they had done her any
courtesy in letting her have the silk that came home on her
husband's account, &c. It was said she reports her husband took
20,000l. out of a Chinese junk, but if it were taken it belonged to
those that employed him; also that he carried an estate in money,
but the contrary appeared at his going, for he was so ill provided
of money, he was forced to borrow 100l. of the Company; and if he
had not accepted when he did, the Company resolved not to have
employed him at all, their ships being ready to depart without him;
nay more, it was affirmed they were so little desirous he should go
that they offered him 100l. to stay, but an "honble. lord his friend
pressed him to go." The Court willed Mr. Cappur to provide that
interrogatories be drawn by counsel in the Company's behalf, and
promised within a week to have their witnesses examined. The
old business concerning the estate of Greete renewed, who had given
by will 300l. for erecting a school, Sir Thomas Smythe and Sir
William Russell being executors; the former earnestly desires a settling
of the question between Greete and the Company, because it gives
occasion of speech to the world, some unjustly surmising that he
swallows up the estate, whereas he never reaped any benefit thereby.
Sir Thos. Smythe added that Westby who died in the Indies has
also made him his executor, and Fursland writes that Westby left
1,500 ryals, which are put to the Company's account; these things
left to further consideration. Richard Chamberlain entertained to
go steward in the Jonas; Robert Leake, much commended by Capt.
Blythe, to go steward's mate. Many petitions read and answered.
Request of Andrew Evans, who was mate in the Ann when she was
in fight with a carrack, to be entertained in the Company's service;
he was offered to take charge of one of the pinnaces appointed for
Surat. |
|
Nov. 7.—Committee appointed to attend the Lords of the Council
in obedience to their command concerning, it is supposed, the pirate
money. The business for the General Court in the afternoon taken
into consideration: Firstly, concerning Auditor-General; secondly,
the necessity of a Christmas payment; thirdly, to procure a proclamation from the King to inhibit the importation of calicoes. For the
first, several auditors were nominated, but in the end, resolved to be
left wholly to the Court. For the second, the motion must be
resolute and admit of no dispute. For the third, "some thought
that the Company, by procuring such a proclamation shall fall
within the compass of monopoly"; but in the end it was left to be
opened and ordered at the General Court. Concerning the price of
indigo, which now lies on the Company's hands as a dead commodity, but would be taken off, if the price were fallen to some
reasonable rate; 4s. per pound is offered, which makes very near
five for one, while calicoes make but two for one, but the Company
ask 5s.; it may be brought from Aleppo at 5s., and the ship London
Merchant is shortly expected with rich indigo. Committees named
to fall the price according to the quality bought. Motion of Jonas
Viney, to have 1,000l., the remainder of Capt. Jourdain's estate,
having already received 200l.; the former order of payment to be
looked up. Concerning the Royal James reported not fit to put to
sea. Consideration of "the crimes objected to Mr. Hurte;" his
answers no ways satisfactory; to come up on Wednesday next, with
all who could give any light in the business. Richard Wylde entertained factor at 100l. per annum for five years. Capt. Weddall,
"doth disable Phelps for being master" of one of the pinnaces;
he is left to further consideration. Letter (read) from Robt. Bourne
on behalf of Mrs. Baffin for the money due to her deceased husband;
the Court are ready to pay what is due for wages, "but to pay 800l.
which cannot but begotten by private trade, the Company will not
do it;" notwithstanding, Mrs. Baffin shall expect their further
answer. |
|
Nov. 7.—Minutes of a General Court. Discussion concerning the
broke of 20 per cent. for calicoes not exported; ordered that said
broke should be imposed as well on those that ship out their calicoes
and bring them in again, as on those that pretend to ship out and do
it not, but sell at home. Mr. Deputy declared that since the last
General Court, 10,000l. more had been underwrit for calicoes to
tra nsp ort, and he hoped good quantities more would be. Six of
the Generality added to the committees for brokes, so that every
meeting may be full. Tickets to be sent to adventurers in arrear
that if they bring in all their payments by the 10th Dec. they
may expect a mitigation of brokes, otherwise the whole broke of 24
per cent. to be charged to their accounts. The Christmas payment
to be paid in, the necessity of the Company's affairs requiring it, but,
to give reputation to this stock, and content to the adventurers, no
new subscription to be made until Christmas come four years. Concerning the election of four auditors. |
|
Nov. 10.—Court Minutes. Concerning the defects of the Great
James; she is found every way sufficient to perform her voyage.
Petition of Peadle concerning the estate of John Frowde, the Prerogative Court having made void the administration of Edward
Parsons. Upon this occasion was renewed an old motion of great
importance, that the Company should cause administrations to stay
six or 12 months before they be paid, but nothing was ordered
therein. Report of Walter Mountford, that the Charles set sail on
Friday last, the 7th inst., and delivered in the "old boxes of succession," &c. Answer of Methwold to the objections against him; he
freely submits to the censure of the Court, and desired a moderation
of his former sentence of 150l., but it was ordered to stand good;
he then moved to have allowance after 9 per cent. for his wages, as
was promised, to have his freedom, and that the money coming to
him may remain in the Company's hands at interest at 9 per cent.
from Michaelmas last. Certain interrogatories presented by the
Company's solicitor concerning Lady Dale's business. Edward
Higham's reasons for default in his adventure to be represented to
the double committee. Objections against Prusson to be heard the
next day. Edward Tynes to keep account of canvas, &c., Jeremy
Sambrook not having leisure. Concerning Mrs. Harrison's business.
Capt. Fitzherbert's widow having come to London purposely to
clear her account with the Company, the account to be audited,
"that she may return before winter come too far on." Petition
of Thomas Beale, a mathematician, to be entertained as a marine
man in place of a master's mate, but was referred to be entertained
as "a good fellow" at 25s. or 26s. per month if he please. |
|
Nov. 11.—Complaint against George Lilly, a steward, for being
"a wasteful man;" if found true, he is to be dismissed. Mr. Cocks
acquaints the Court that he is served with "a writ ad testificandum"
in Mrs. Wickham's suit, which business, as also the interrogatories
for Lady Dale, are ordered to be carefully followed. The instructions, &c. useful in the next treaty, to be made ready to be sent to
Messrs. Misselden and Barlow. Complaints against Mr. Pruson, preferred by Mr. Munnes, in reference to the quality of masts, sails,
and ropes supplied by him to the Company and his charges for
same, &c.; to his refusing English and employing Dutch workmen,
which was conceived dangerous, and to other matters. He also
complained of words spoken by Pruson to one who told the Governor
"that Israel could not thrive until Achan and all his should be
cast out and stoned to death," the meaning of which words Munnes
afterwards understood to refer to some notable bribery or corruption
in the Company. The Court conceived that if the particulars were
true they were foul matters against Mr. Pruson. There grew a
question on some particulars, and Pruson being called in replied to
the objections laid to his charge, excusing and defending himself,
saying that every one must live by his trade, that he made his sails
according to the measure received from the ship's carpenter, &c.
"Here Mr. Pruson could contain himself no longer, but burst out in
a passion, * * * contesting with Mr. Munnes in such uncivil
manner, and threatening to bring him to his answer in another
place, that the Court took knowledge of his insolent carriage,
tending so much to the disparagement of the government, that it was
not to be endured in so grave an assembly; whereupon Pruson told
the Court he desired to be heard by indifferent judges." The day
being much spent the business was left to be resolved at another
Court. [Twenty-eight pages. Court Minute Book, VI., pp. 218–248.] |
Nov 11.
The Hague. |
340. Carleton to the Governor or Deputy Governor of the East
India Company. If it had lain in his power to have done their Company any service upon their former letters, he would not have deferred writing until now, that he is invited by their courtesy both to
himself and his wife, for which they both give hearty thanks; but
such has been the distraction in this Company, by disputes between
Bewinthebbers and participants, that they know not how to begin
any good correspondence with us by a necessary reglement for the
future. Only they declare to Carleton their resolution not to swerve
from the treaty, but to maintain it punctually, of which the losses
they as well as we have sustained make them the more careful, especially as the commissions to Misselden and Barlow show that we
seek rather to compose and settle matters in friendly manner, of
which Carleton has already made the chief of them sensible. Will
not fail to give them the assistance they require. [Holland
Corresp.] |
| Nov. 12. |
341. Articles of Agreement between the English and the Guzerats upon the seizure of their junks, for the better conservation of
amity, peace, and free commerce with the English, who have "justly
complained of sundry abuses and hindrances." It is agreed and
granted to Thos. Rastell, President, with his Council, that—1. They
shall be permitted free trade, as well in the ports of Surat, Cambaya,
Gogo, Sinda, and Bengala, as in all other places within the dominions of Jehangeer Paudshah, without prohibition of any commodity
or limitation of places, times, or quantities. 2. There shall no
governors, customers, or other officers engross to themselves, in the
name of the King or Prince, such commodities as the English bring,
more than shall be "properly needful for the use of the King or
Prince, their circares." 3. The house, &c. of Cojah Hassen Allee in
Surat, shall be let them to lease. 4. They shall have free license
for the buying, building, and careening in Surat, Baroach, or Gundivee, of four frigates a year. 5. Neither carts nor boats shall be
denied for transport of their goods, or any water forbidden upon
pretence of duties to the Governors of Urpall, who shall cease to
exact the same. 6. The actions of any other Christian nation shall
be no way imputed to the English for them to be liable. 7. The
rahdars or duties at Unckliseares, Daita, Bayara, Kerka, or any
other places shall for ever hereafter be remitted. 8. There shall no
violence be practised against their people, and if in defence of themselves any manslaughter should happen to any subject of this
kingdom they shall be free of any punishment. 9. Not any of
their "caphilaes" shall be hindered upon any pretence whatsoever;
but differences that might cause the same shall be referred for trial
and accommodation betwixt their chief and the Governor in Surat.
10. They shall be permitted to be instant possessors of their own
goods and rarities at their present landing, which no governor or
other officer shall detain in custom house, or enforce from them at
their own rates, and suffer them (the English) to house into their
own warehouses, where, and nowhere else, shall be the place of
recourse for their markets. 11. They shall freely exercise their
own religion, wear arms for their defence, and exercise justice on
their own people, though the offence be done to a Musselman. 12.
Their brokers shall have free liberty of speech before any governor,
and shall not be abused, or daily fined, imprisoned, or detained by
every inferior officer upon trivial occasions. 13. The goods, ryals,
and other treasure jewels of the English shall for ever hereafter
be free of the accustomed duties usually paid in Surat, with condition that they shall pay a constant rent of 40,000 ms. per
annum to the King's circare. 14. In case of mortality to any
Englishman, his estate to remain to the rest of his nation, and in
case of no English left living, the governor of the place shall reserve
the same to the use of such English as shall come to challenge it.
15. The past or present stoppage of the King, Prince, or his subjects'
junks shall not be imputed to the English as an offence, seeing
that want of justice has justly enforced them to extremities; wherefore they shall not be liable to the surrender of any goods or
treasure taken out of said junks, nor shall any of the English
nation be hereafter called in question for the same, "with an
absolute remittance of all things never hereafter to be questioned."
[Three pages. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1179.] |
| Nov. 12–21. |
342. Court Minutes of the East India Company. John Phelps
is entertained master of the best of the pinnaces now building, at
5l. per month, and to confer with Mr. Stephens how she shall be
built. Demand of Jackson concerning Augustine Spaldinge's estate,
or allowance for it for the time the Company holds it. The Court
answered it is not their fault he is not already come home; they
wrote by the Trial, but the ship miscarrying, the letter also perished;
but make no question he will come home in the next ships; and
as they expect himself so shortly, they hold it not reasonable that
"use money" should be demanded. Petition of Jonas Viney for
1,000l., the remains of the monies due to Capt. Jourdain, deceased,
which petitioner claimed under his said uncle's will, to whom Mrs.
Viney, the mother of said Jonas, was sole executrix, but she dying
made her said son her executor. The Court was not satisfied that
he, being within age, could give a discharge for the money, albeit
divers civilians were of that mind, but were contented he shall
receive 400l., provided he shall hold himself quiet, without being
further troublesome to the Company until he shall be arrived to the
full age of 21 years, which he thankfully accepted. Petition of the
wife of one John Wood for monies pretended to be due to her husband, "but in an immodest manner threatens the Company that if
she failed of her pretences, she would follow them in the streets
until they were wearied with her importunities." The Court was
much distasted with her impudence, and consulted where to complain
for redress, but was contented that if Wood will receive his wages
for the time he served in the James, he may. Petition of Wm.
Whaley for gratification for the loss of his leg in the Company's
service; he was told the Company held themselves no way bound
to recompense his "mayme," for they give wages, and are bound to
no more; notwithstanding, they were content to bestow upon him
10l. as a free gift. Messrs. Bell, Venn, and Abdy attended the
Lords at Whitehall, concerning certain mariners whose wives complained they could not have right from the Company for their
husbands' goods taken by the Hollanders. Suit on behalf of Mrs.
Fitzherbert for monies due to her husband; when the President's
accounts shall come the Company will do her right; in the meantime she may receive 100l. on account. Arnold Browne entertained
to go master in the Star at 9l. per month; Mr. Johnson, of the
Eagle, at 7l.; and Mr. Pynn, of the lesser pinnace, at 4l. 10s. Concerning the charges against Hurte; he denied all, and when asked a
second and third time, still stood upon his innocency; but at length
confessed his fault and submitted himself to the favour and grace of
the Court; some were of opinion that he might be so warned as to
become a good servant to the Company; others wished to remove
him; and after much arguing, he was warned to attend on Friday
next. |
|
Nov. 14.—Motion of Harlow for a gratification to poor ministers,
which had been done in former years, though last Christmas omitted;
the Court made answer that their former charity had drawn such
multitudes of ministers from all parts as the Company hath been
oppressed with suitors; and after some debate, that they would not
set down anything positively until they had acquainted Mr. Governor
therewith, and understood his mind. Sir Wm. Garroway thinks
himself hardly dealt withal in that they demand 130l. for interest,
whereas he, as a farmer of the customs, hath forborne greater sums
from the Company, and for longer time. Demand of the Lord
Treasurer in respect of the overplus of the compound "money for
spices spent in the land;" he is desirous to clear that account,
because from henceforth the Duke of Richmond is to receive it, by
a late grant from his Majesty; ordered that the account be searched.
About Mr. Pruson's business; the Company nothing satisfied with
his service nor with his skill; he had carried himself with much
contempt to some of the committee and scandal to others, had not
answered well at the former Court, and shall not be employed again;
notwithstanding, if he could set down anything in writing for the
Company's good, he should be heard. Mr. Munnes intreated to
look into the accounts of the purser of the London, concerning the
goods taken at Ormuz; and Messrs. Bownest and Lawrence to audit
Mr. Bickford's account. Report of Mr. Treasurer Stone, that he will
not be able to pay out the dividend and other payments now due,
and can hardly see how the disbursements of all kinds will be provided for; after consideration, it was thought fit to get out of debt
by putting off some commodities rather than to seek monies at
interest, but nothing was at present resolved. Petition of Robert
Tellowe to remit the fine imposed on him by the President, in the
Indies, of four months' pay, for fighting with an Englishman, but the
Court left the fine still upon him. Complaint of "the porters of
the tackling house" that their labours were undervalued; to be
examined. The Court acquainted that Sheriff Mowlson is resolved
to report in the business between the Company and Adam Denton.
Mr. Tichburne to receive 5l. on account of his bill.
Nov. 17.—Mr. Treasurer Stone acquaints the Court that a subpoena was served upon him out of Chancery to answer a bill
preferred against him at the suit of the Earl of Suffolk; Mr. Cappur
to answer thereto for avoiding contempt. |
|
Nov. 19.—Project presented by Mr. Beale, whereby ships may be
preserved from the worm and sudden firing. The inventor made
some demonstration to the Court how the material laid upon board
it would keep it from firing, with divers other virtues, and for 50s.
extraordinary per 100 tons he will trim all their ships with it;
committee appointed to consult with Capt. Clevenger and some
masters and gunners and report their opinions. In reference to
allowance for Capt. Weddall's pepper, the Court understood the ryal
to be five mamoodees. The Court of opinion that they are not
bound to answer the Earl of Suffolk's bill, except there appear
matter directly against them. Allowance to Mr. Punnyett "for
carrying about the Charles," &c., and to Michael Nicholls for taking
up a cable. Committee appointed to confer with Capt. Weddall
about the value of his pepper. Debate how to provide moneys for
the setting out of the ships now bound forth. The fleet of four
ships and two pinnances will stand the Company in 14,000l. at
least, and it will be fit to send to both factories 150,000 ryals besides
what shall be bestowed in cloth. Discussion whether they should
follow or not the Persian trade and send fewer ships, to which was
answered that the danger will be the same, besides it may be
the Governor will not altogether give over Ormuz; moreover, that
the trade of the Red Sea ought not to be neglected; whether Surat
commodities will serve for Ormuz; the benefit which Ormuz promiseth is not to be neglected. All good courses to be taken to bring
in money; committee appointed to consider of it and advise with
the treasurer. The maces which were set at 8s. 6d. to be now sold
for 8s., and the middle maces that were at 5s. 6d. for 5s. Mr. Barlow
writes from Amsterdam that a customer there will buy half the
Company's silk, and wishes it sent over. The Court will not agree
to send their silk thither; if the Netherlands have a mind to buy,
they must send their deputies hither. The appointment of auditors
and the General Court put off in respect of the want of health both
in Mr. Governor and Mr. Deputy. Request of Mr. Lamman that
Edward Lynes may assist Jeremy Sambrook with the accounts until
it shall please God to give him health. |
|
Nov. 21.—Concerning the gumlac sent home on the account of
Augustine Spaldinge. The Court willing to abate the price of indigo
so as they may sell 100 barrels in a parcel. Composition accepted
by Mr. Weddall for his pepper. About Beversham's goods landed
out of the Lion, and a large carpet, quilts, and other things
set by for the Lord Treasurer at first cost, and a carpet for Mrs.
Hallidaie for her own use. Claim by the friends of [William]
Baffin, deceased in the Company's service, of an estate of 835l.,
whereof 500l. in money; the Court could not conceive how Baffin
could raise such estate with honest dealing; it was conceived by
some he might have gotten much of his estate at Ormuz, to which
was answered that Baffin died before Ormuz was taken, and that he
carried 1,000 marks with him; the Court was contented to come
to end with him, and therefore declared that if those that prosecute
for the estate will refer to the Company, they will do them right.
Report of auditors on Walter Mountford's accounts, which they find
so intricate and out of order "that it will ask a long time to audit
them;" all his disbursements not vouched, and he is to account for
1,500l.; ordered that until this be done no more money for salary
or other employments is to be paid to him. George Ball, according
to an order on an old petition to the Lord Keeper, to be allowed
to make copies of certain papers, provided Messrs. Waytes and
Tichburne be present. The Company advised to examine Ball in
the business between them and Lady Dale. Concerning [Adam]
Denton's debt to the Company. Some exception against their beer
being served by Dutchmen, but there is small choice of English
brewers, only Messrs. Morgan and Duppa being able to serve them;
agreed that Duppa should do so. Great want of Spanish iron hoops;
the difference great both in the weight and price, the Spanish being
22s. per cwt. and English 27s., which weighs much more. Patrick
Niccolls, Master of Arts, of Broadgates Hall, in Oxenford, offered his
service to go preacher in the fleet for Surat; Mr. Cappur to write to
his brother in Oxenford to inquire of him. The widow of [William]
Baffin, accompanied by Mr. Bourne, made demand of her husband's
estate, who deceased in the Indies in the Company's service; the
Court told them that if Baffin's estate were questioned it might
prove dangerous to the widow, especially if it be true, which she
pretends, that he carried 600l. out in money, a thing utterly unlawful; if he carried no estate with him then is it possible that any
great matter can be coming to him, and therefore wished an
end might be made by some to be indifferently chosen on both sides.
Mr. Bourne desired time to consider it. [Nineteen pages. Court
Minute Book, VI., pp. 248–267.] |
Nov. 21.
Hague. |
343. Advices from the Hague. At Goeree a ship from the East
Indies has again arrived, and another is on the way. Four more
great ships are equipped to start from the Indies by the first, with
80 young girls, who in time will make honest marriages in the
Indies. [French. Extract from Holland Corresp.] |
| Nov. 23. |
344. Minutes of a meeting of committees at Blackwall in reference to smiths', coopers', and other work done there. [One page.
Court Minute Book, VI., pp. 267–268.] |
| Nov. 24. |
345. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Committee
appointed to which petitions of wives for their husbands' pay and
for servants' wages are to be wholly referred. George Page, who
had petitioned for employment as a factor, presented copy of a
translation out of Dutch into English; to attend at next Court.
Earnest request of Mr. Miller in reference to Capt. Fitzherbert's
estate in behalf of his widow; after discussion, the Court was pleased
that Mrs. Fitzherbert should receive 150l. on account. Mr. Ellam
to make a survey of factors abroad against the next Court. Question between Mr. Browne, master of the Star, and Daniel White
purser; both to attend the Court at their next sitting. William
Fall, formerly steward of the Jonas, appointed steward of the Star
instead of John (or George) Lilly, dismissed "because he would
sometimes be overdone in drink." Robert Leake appointed steward's
mate in the Great James. Concerning a request of Messrs. Lee,
Langham, and Sherrington to take out their six half capitals, four in
cloves and two in calicoes. William Jones, formerly set down for a
steward's mate, dismissed. Thomas Leeson refuses to go as steward's
mate. Robert Loftus, a very honest young man, to be purser's mate
of the Eagle and underfactor in the Indies. Mr. Parkhurst, one of
the committte for buying those commodities, to view Mr. Fishburne's
satins; crimsons and greens the colours to be bought. Consideration of the number of ryals to be sent; 150,000 ryals, with 50,000
ryals in goods "a fit cargazone, as well to buy the Mallabar's pepper
(whereof it is supposed good store may to be had, because the Portugals
have been kept in two years together) as also to manage the Red
Sea and Persian trade, together with the trade of Ormuz and the
Persian Gulf;" ordered to have a Court purposely for settling these
businesses on Wednesday next, meantime Jeremy Sambrooke, by
direction of Mr. Munnes, to make a computation of the Company's
stock at Surat and Persia. [Four pages. Court Minute Book, VI.,
pp. 268–272.] |
| Nov. 25. |
346. Minutes of a meeting of a mixed company of the committees and some of the generality. Three businesses to be handled
at this Court, viz., concerning delinquents, the cloves, and the choice
of auditors. All delinquents not in like case, some able to pay and
some not. The list of insolvents examined, and 60,000l. found in
such hands who for very poverty cannot pay, and no promise of
mitigation can do good upon them, but it may do hurt where the
men are good. Advised that those that are good men should be called
upon to bring in their arrears and brokes without mitigation, and the
Company may deal kindly with them afterwards and the Court
moved to suffer the insolvent to take out his stock already paid in,
to lay a fine upon arrears, and take legal course against those that
are able to pay; discussion thereon. In the end it was thought
fit not to end this business at present, but every man to arm himself
with the best reasons he can, that it may be ended at the next
meeting on Tuesday next. The business of the cloves put off till
after Christmas. Seventeen men put in nomination for auditors
general, of whom were chosen by erection of hands, Roger Gifford,
Thomas Colthurst, Ralph Handson, — Cranmer, Thomas Eyans, and
Richard Swift. [Two pages and a half. Court Minute Book, VI.,
pp. 272–274.] |
| Nov. 26. |
347. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Petition of
Thomas Latham, executor to Mrs. Mary Fettiplace, deceased, that
whereas he is to dispose of divers legacies given by her and hath
only her adventure of 800l. which he cannot sell except at great
loss, and shall be forced to continue it in his own name, that he
may be made free of the Company; which is granted on his
paying 5l. to the poor box on his own life only. Advice from
Marseilles of 80 chests of coral bought for the Company's use,
which there is good likelihood may be here time enough to be
sent by the next ships for Surat. Account of Edw. Guy, purser
of the London, presented to the Court, wherein is set down the
goods taken at Ormuz, but neither money, jewels, nor plate, the
same being delivered (as he said) to President Rastell and Giles
James; the Court conceived that the Company is much wronged by
the underrating of the goods sold, and that they have not received a
due account of the plate, money, and jewels taken, neither could a
just one sixth be paid to their men, when there was no just account
of the whole; the purser therefore blamed for not giving a better
account, and enjoined to prepare a better on Friday next. Consideration of the proportion of ryals to be sent to Surat and how to
be provided. 200,000 ryals to be sent in the next fleet for Surat,
and as the "cash is very 'lene,'" and a parcel of ryals due from the
Hollanders is but a weak supply for such a sum, four or five of the
committees are entreated to supply the necessary occasions of the
Company, by privately taking up some 4,000l. or 5,000l., which was
conceived to stand best with the reputation of the Company. Offer
of Turkey merchants to take a good quantity of indigo, if they may
have it at a reasonable price; not to have less than 100 barrels at
3s. 9d. per lb., instead of 4s., to ship to the Straits.
Consideration of [Richard] Steele's propositions; he propounded
the freighting of goods and passengers from Synda to Ormuz, which
would produce 20,000l. benefit per ann. viz. at 14 per cent. freight
which the Portugals have employed these 100 years, but of late
by reason of their cruelty the merchants have carried their merchandise through Candahar, which trade might easily be had again if the
English would undertake the business; here it was observed that the
Portugals have seated themselves upon the mouth of the river Synda,
and fortified on both sides and must first be disabled there to make
good the project. He then made offer of his service and pretended
another benefit to the Company in reference to the buying of indigo
within five days' journey of Lahore. His next proposition was for
the waterworks formerly projected, which he conceived would yield
10,000l. per ann., and be infinitely pleasing both to the Great Mogul
and to his subjects "the Grand Mayor doting upon this project;"
but this having been at large debated upon the arrival of Sir Thos.
Roe, who no way approved of it, the Company had no purpose to
entertain this project. The third proposition was that they should
not trade with the King of Persia, but endeavour to be at liberty to
trade anywhere; to which was answered that this had been taken
into consideration and our King's letters were sent purposely to
procure that privilege. Steele was of opinion that Persia yearly
yields 30,000 bales of silk, though others said not above 5,000, and
that on the coast of Malabar 500 tons of pepper are to be had
yearly, being but five or six days' sail from Jask. Steele being withdrawn, the Court remembered that his propositions were old, and
that Sir Thos. Roe was and is of opinion that it is dangerous to
employ him, that his defence formerly was very weak and therefore,
because the Company expect messengers from Persia, resolved to
answer that they have no employment for him; and concerning his
propositions, when they hear what these messengers will say, they
will consider further on him. Discussion on Steele's propositions
after his departure. Petition of William Kitchin, late surgeon of the
Lion, for abatement of freight, having carried himself very honestly
abroad and civilly at home; ordered that he pay 2s. freight per book
for 150 pieces of calico instead of 3s. [Eight pages. Court Minute
Book, VI., pp. 278–286.] |
| Nov. 28. |
348. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Gratuities
given to the poor of Stepney, together with the old beef and biscuit
and "other vayles of beef" as have been usually distributed to the
poor there. Bills to be set up in the usual places declaring that a
Court of Sales shall be held on Wednesday afternoon next. The
purser of the London given till Monday next to bring in his accounts.
Mr. Hurte's business. Mr Ellam's collection of the factors in the
Indies, being in number "Fowerskoare," shown to the Court; some
thought the number over great, but others remembered that they
have had heretofore a much greater; further consideration for supply
of factors referred until the Company hear from Persia, which that
they had not done in so long time, they much wondered at, "the
passage being so ordinary as it is." Request of Mrs. Baffin about
her husband's estate; discourse thereon; the Court readily consented
that the business might fairly be debated and two were chosen on
either side to end the business. Differences between Arnold Browne,
master, and Daniel White, purser, of the Star, concerning their respective "quality and power," reconciled by the Court; and the duties of
their office explained: the like charge given to Richard Swanley,
master of the Great James, under Capt. Weddall, and that the ship
fall down to Gravesend by the middle of January. Committees
appointed to take care of each of the outward-bound ships, Royal
James, Jonas, Star, and Eagle. Motion that Mr. Biddulph, who hath
been a faithful servant to the Company, may sell his indigo or transport it; but the Court rather inclined to reward his services in
some other kind, and in no wise would permit him to dispose of
his own indigo. Inventory of goods presented, supposed to belong
to John Browne who died at Patani. Offer of Sheriff Freeman and
Mr. Coxe to furnish the Company with Bulgary red hides. Request
of George Ball to have the originals of some papers useful to him;
answered that he might copy out any of his books or papers in the
auditor's office, but in no wise would the Court consent to part with
the originals. [Four pages. Court Minute Book, VI., pp. 274–278.] |
Nov. 29.
Hague. |
349. Advices from the Hague. The West Indian fleet has passed
some days, in company with the four East Indian ships, towards the
Texel, to sail thence by the first. [French. Extract from Holland
Corresp.] |
| (1623 ?) |
350. (Carleton) to the Duke of Buckingham. In speaking with
the Prince of Orange, after the return of the Prince and Duke from
Spain, he mentioned, amongst other distasts which incline the King
towards the Spanish overtures of friendship, the "entering (by the
Dutch) in the East Indies into open hostility avowed by a public
act of the States General," which ill course has been pursued for
some years. [Extract from Holland Corresp.] |
