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Dec. 7.
Aboard the Royal James. |
240. Consultation held by John Skibbowe, John Banggam, Richard Barry, John White, and Anthony James. Ordered that Robert Hills, master cooper, for daily selling rack to all buyers, contrary to the orders of the late Capt. Morton and in contempt of command and government in the ship, which is as well prejudicial to the men's health and impoverishing of their estates as also to the hindrance of the Company's affairs and the dishonour of the Almighty, should sit two days and two nights in the bilboes, to deter others from like bad courses. ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1406.] |
Dec. 9.
Aboard the Mary (Surat). |
241. James Slade, Matthew Wills, John Roberta, Humphrey Pym, and Wm. Minors, Commanders of the Mary, Exchange, and Speedwell, to the East India Company. Left the Downs 2nd Feb. last; met with Capt. Roe in a small ship of Milbrooke 21st, by whom they sent a few lines; crossed the equinox 22nd March; passed the Cape 12th May without touching; arrived at St. Augustine Bay 30th, where they found the pinnace Intelligence, John Burley, Master, sent to meet them with advices from Surat and Persia, requiring their stay at the island of Johanna till 20th Aug. in expectation of the James, William, and Blessing on their return from Bantam; also found there the Seahorse, of about 100 tons, belonging to the King and immediately set out by him. Capt. Richard Quaile, Commander, with commission and instructions under the King's hand and seal to go for the Red Sea and there, or, anywhere else, make purchase (?) of any that were not friends or allies of his Majesty; having seen his Commission, and examined his people, whom they detained as prisoners, and finding he had done nothing contrary to his Commission, it was thought safest to release them; hope that they have done will be acceptable to the Company though his employment and on such designs cannot be pleasing to any of them. Sailed thence 27th June, having refreshed and recovered their people sick of the scurvy, and arrived at Molala Islands, viz., Johanna 1st July; and understanding from Burley of the raging famine in all parts of the Mogul's country, and how the Discovery and Reformation were forced to provide for themselves in Persia at extraordinary rates, they resolved to glean up what grain these islands afforded for their ships' provisions, and by consultation opened one of the chests of ryals, and bought fresh victuals for saving their sea stores amounting to 1,700 Rs. of rice and other sorts of grain. Received news of the William's arrival at Molala, and letter from the President and Council of Surat, enordering
their stay till the last of August in expectation of the James and Blessing from Bantam, diverting them from their former design for Persia, and enordering their immediate coming for Surat; and likewise news of the raging famine in India, and orders for gleaning up all the grain they could, but could not do what they might have done in regard the advice came so late, yet the small quantity they bought for the market costing not above 400 Rs., if sold as the market goes here, will defray the charge of all they bought at these islands and St. Lawrence. Sailed 1st Sept. for India, and 6th Oct. met the Blessing at the place appointed: having lost her monsoon for Bantam she left the James 15th Aug. on the coast of Sumatra, all her goods being put aboard the James, Capt. Morton and Mr. Skibbowe intending their course for Bantam to gain pepper for the home-bound ships this year, but in their opinions it is impossible for them to return here this year, owing to their late dispatch hence. By which means the William and Blessing (if sufficient lading be gotten for both) will want pepper to stow among their goods, to the Company's great loss. Oct. 7th, met nine sail of Dutch ships from Batavia bound for Surat, with whom they kept company till their arrival there 14th. Found the President in health, but all the merchants dead, or sick and hardly able to help one another, and the town and country in a manner unpeopled, for never in the memory of man has the like famine and mortality happened. This that was in a manner the garden of the world is turned into a wilderness having few or no men left to labour, so that places that have yielded 15 bales cloth in a day, hardly yield now three in a month: Ahmedabad that yielded 3,000 bales indigo yearly, now hardly yields 300, yet a plentiful year for its growth, which lies rotting on the ground for want of men to gather it. Agra not touched with this famine or mortality, but continues in its former estate, but affords little to satisfy so many buyers, and what they shall do for a lading against next year God only knows; and yours and our unhappiness is the more for the loss of President Rastell who deceased 7th Nov. last and left not a man behind him in this factory able to manage the Company's affairs, Mr. Hopkinson is only left, but is too sick and weak; Mountney at Ahmedabad, Rand at Cambaya, Joyce at Baroach, and Wick at Brodera have likewise been sick, but are well recovered. The late dispatch of their caphilo of goods, all last year's quicksilver and some of their chests of ryals for Ahmedabad through the sickness and death of the President, but more through the perfidious dealing of this Governor, will be a cause that the homeward, southern, and Persian goods expected by that eaphilo, will not be returned hither till the middle of Jan., so that believe they will be forced to go for Persia first, except they hazard next year's employment, by loss of their monsoons. The Dutch are now under sail for Persia, and two of them thence bound for Holland, by whom have sent these lines, believing their dispatch from Persia will be before their arrival or that they can dispeed the William or Blessing. Of the home-bound goods here in readiness, viz., 800 bales Ahmedabad indigo, 400 or 500 Agra indigo, 200 cotton yarn, and 300 saltpetre, the indigo all cleared in the Custom House, yet the greatest part stopped by this
perfidious Governor, and when the saltpetre and cotton yarn will be cleared is uncertain, the reason being they believe only to detain their ships for carrying some Persian friends of his and their goods, and for convoy of some of his junks which stay for Ahmedabad and Burrampoor caphilos, which they must not stay for. The William and Blessing are both intended for England, and one immediately from Persia if they can get those goods aboard that are ready at Surat; near half the indigo and saltpetre is already aboard, and hopes the rest will be suddenly brought down, with which will immediately sail. Their business in their opinions would have gone better forward had they not been diverted from their first injunctions for Persia. The goods for this port are all landed, but come to a most miserable market, especially quicksilver and vermilion, in regard of the great quantity the Dutch fleet has brought: that sent on last year's fleet not delivered before their arrival, nor the money due for it till four months after. Last year's coral remains in the house, but are uncertain whether sold or no. The James, William, and Blessing dispeeded hence 27th April last, got off the coast with much difficulty, and 14th May the William parted from them and arrived at Armagon 23rd, where Capt. Wills was ordered to bring away John Hunter, that was left Chief by Willoughby, also Osmond Smith, Lieutenant of the Fort, the reasons only known to the President and Council, in whose room were left John Norris and Thomas Robinson, with Robt. Adams for Lieutenant. Sailed thence 4th June, and with great difficulty crossing the equinoctial passed the southern end of St. Lawrence 5th Aug. and arrived at Molala 13th, and Johanna 20th, where they happily met. Understood by letters from Armagon that the Hopewell arrived there 25th June, and her stay would be till the middle of this month, and at Swally of Capt. Quaile's arrival 20 days before themselves and that he had taken two Malabar junks on the coast of Arabia, with some small quantity of "offim" (? opium) and other pillage of small value. Has lost 27 out of 50 men brought out of England, and the remainder mostly very weak and sick. God send all no better success that come out on such designs. Endorsed, "The Commanders of the ships of the third voyage. . . . The substance of Capt Quaile's Commission." 5 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1407.] |
Dec. 21.
Aboard the ship Amoboyna. |
242. Extract of some particulars out of a letter written by a Dutch Factor to one of the Dutch Council of India in Batavia. Arrived at Surat from Batavia 23rd Oct. last; landing at Swally saw many that had perished of hunger, not above 10 or 11 families remaining alive out of 260 families, and as they travelled to Surat many dead bodies lay on the highway where they died, being no one would bury them. In Surat could hardly see any living persons where heretofore were thousands sound people. Coming into the town, are infected with the stench of the dead, which at the corners of the streets lie 20 together, nobody burying them; for in this town have died above 30,000 people. The English house and theirs are like the hospital at Batavia; there are dead of the
English Factors 10 or 11, and of theirs three; and those remaining of the English are very sorrowful for the death of Mr. Rastell, their President, about 20 days' since. No trade may be expected in these parts these three years; no man can go in the streets without giving great alms or being in danger of being murdered, for the poor people cry aloud, give us sustenance or kill us; the fair fields hereabout are all drowned with great floods, and the fruits of the earth clean washed away; and the waters were so high in the city that they could pass from one house to another but by boats, which was never known in the memory of any living man. The English ships and theirs arrived together, and on the English Admiral, came a great Lord, the brother-in-law of Buckingham, called the Earl of Denbigh; it is conceived he comes Ambassador to the Mogul, which time will show. Here is also arrived a small ship called the King of England's ship, with strong Commission, Commander Capt. Quaile and Lieut. Robertson; this Captain has been at Mocha, and thence brought no small store of Ducats, but cannot learn the certainty thereof. His Commission is to sail round about the world and give the King account thereof; he carries out the King's flag in despite of the English in the road, who may not put out any other than the white flag with the red cross; there is great opposition between them, which seems strange. The King's Captain came with his Commission to their Governor desiring help and water in spite of his own nation, for his company is very sickly. 3 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1408.] |
Dec. 20 & 21.
Aboard the Royal James, Bantam Road. |
243. Consultations aboard the Royal James. |
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20th Dec. By Jno. Skibbowe, John Banggam, Rich. Barry, Ant. James, Edw. Hall, Gilbert Gardner, John White, Geo. Bagshawe, and John Barrad. After serious and large "disgussinge" [discussion] resolved to winter at the island "Morisses" [Mauritius] having lost their monsoon for Surat, being a place frequented yearly by the Company's ships, as also hoping to meet some there, whereof they may have intelligence for further proceedings. |
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21st Dec. By Jno. Skibbowe, John Banggam, Rich. Barry, Anth. James, and Francis Preston. Ordered that John White, Master of the ship, be chosen Commander in place of Capt. Matthew Morton deceased, until their meeting with the William and Blessing, when the Company's balloting boxes shall be opened to know their pleasures who shall succeed Capt. Morton; and that this election be published and read at the mainmast in presence of all the ship's company. 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1409.] |
Dec. 22.
Bantam Road, aboard the Great James. |
244. Jno. Skibbowe and Jno. Banggam to the East India Company. Left their last of 6th Oct. with the Agent here to be sent by the Palsgrave, which goes by this conveyance. Sailed for Surat next day, but finding much foul weather, the monsoon settled, and currents strong against them, and their men falling down sick, Capt. Morton called a consultation 24th Oct., and as it was held impossible to achieve their passage for Surat this year, it was conceived most convenient to return to Bantam, which they did 6 Nov. Capt. Morton fell sick and died 21st Nov., when they
found he had laden aboard the James 32 bags of cloves, 15 of cubebs, and two of turtle shells, one jewel of diamonds which he reported cost 50l., and 63 parcels of plate, silver and silk, and silver lace; the cloves are laden aboard the Palsgrave to be delivered to the Company, and the rest is in the hands of Barry, the Purser, to be carried to the President and Council at Surat to be disposed of. Found on their return the Star gone for Macassar, and the Dove and London for Jambi. Have taken into the James 3,381 peculls of pepper borrowed of the Old Joint Stock for the second general voyage, to be repaid now in Jambi for lading the London, and bought 1,019 peculls more for that voyage, so that they have 4,400 peculls of pepper aboard. There was also bought from the Second Joint Stock for the second voyage towards satisfaction for moneys disbursed in Surat 231 pec. odd of cloves at 80 ryals the pec., and bought in Bantam 15 pec. odd for 998 ryals; also the Old Joint Stock wanting moneys to pay Bills of Exchange charged on them from Macassar, sold to the second voyage 31 pec. odd at 80 ryals; so that in all they have 278 pec. 28 cattees of cloves aboard. Have since their return had much trouble with Wm. Hoare and Council about said 231 peculls of cloves; they offered to lade them on the Palsgrave on the adventure of the second voyage, and write home referring the decision to their Worships, but Hoare refused, and at a conference he would have had it "put to voices," which they refused alleging they were not of his Council, but agreed that both should set down their opinions in writing; in lieu whereof Agent Hoare and Council drew a consultation injuriously setting their names to it, and drew Capt. Hall and others to firm to a protest against them. Enclose copies of all letters that have passed between them. Willoughby and Barnes have required to go for England to answer what might be objected against them, and in denial have protested against them; but have answered that their Commission extends but to bring them to Surat. Send copies of protests and answers, and of their Commission and warrant from the President and Council, and all are carried with them in the James. There have been found of private trade aboard the James 77 bales to whom they belong they cannot learn, 1 hhd. and 10 jars storex, neither will any owner lay claim, so that they are left for the Agent and Council to dispose of for the Company's account. Beaumont, Master of the James, appointed by the President on displacing of Barnes, Master of the Star; and John White, Mate of the James, to succeed Barnes as Master; who also since Capt. Morton's death, was made Commander of the James till they meet the William and Blessing, and the Company's balloting boxes shall be opened. Send these letters by the Palsgrave now ready to depart for England. Intend to go for Mauritius, being a good place for refreshing and recovering their sick men; besides the President and Council perceiving they have lost their monsoon will dispeed with the ships for Persia, the pinnace Intelligence with advice how to meet the next fleet from England. Make account also that the William or Blessing or both will touch there, on which, or one of them with the James, they may lade their pepper and cloves for England. If this
fail, resolve to stay there till June, and then go about St. Lawrence to meet the fleet from England at the Bay of St. Augustine or Johanna, and accompany them to Surat. The Dutch send five ships this year for Holland from Jacatra, besides three they make account from Surat. It seems all goes not well between England and them, for their ships have order not to go through the channel, but about the back side of Ireland and Scotland. All these southern factories require a supply of able men, the times of most being expired, and many kept here in manner by force and entreaty. Have had no news from Surat since their departure; but from the Coromandel coast, were advised in July that it had not rained, and the famine was likely to increase; hope God has relieved the northern parts. No news of the Hopewell more than of her arrival at Armagon; God grant she lose not her monsoon for Macassar. Endorsed, "R. by the ship Palsgrave, 1 July 1632." Annexed, |
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244. I. List of sundry writings sent to the Company, viz.:—Copies of Willoughby's protest and answer, Barnes's protest and answer, Skibbowe and Banggam's opinion about the cloves in difference with the Agent and Council, the President and Council's Commission to Skibbowe and Banggam, warrant for arrest of George Willoughby, consultation held in Bantam 5th Sept. 1631, letter from the Agent and Council 11th Nov. to Skibbowe and Banggam, letter and protest from same 21st Nov., letter from Skibbowe and Banggam to same 14th Nov., same to same 22nd Nov., general letter from same to the Company of 22nd Dec. Endorsed, "List of writings sent the Honble. Company 22nd Decr 1631." Together, 5 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., Nos. 1410, and 1410 I.] |
Dec. 23./Jan. 2.
Rotterdam. |
245. Robert Powlett to Edward Nicholas. The Dutch brag how easily they made of the Amboyna business, which they often cite for a precedent, marvelling he should come into these parts to expect satisfaction for any wrongs, when the business of Amboyna could not work the least impression with the state here. [Domestic Chas. I., Vol. CCIV., No. 91.] |
Dec. 24.
Armagon. |
246. John Norris, Raphe. Cartwright, and Emanuel Altham, to (the Agent and Council in Bantam). With much trouble and many hindrances, the like not formerly at any time known, have at last provided and sent herewith on the Hopewell 269 bales goods, which are the best the time could afford. Were the Company sensible of their sufferings by these posting voyages, they would doubtless apply the remedy inculcated in all their advices to Surat, viz., means aforehand for timely investment, which would furnish well-conditioned commodities far cheaper. All sorts are reduced to a far more narrow proportion than they expected, for these miserable times full fraught with war, pestilence, and famine have occasioned the reservation "of about 40 ffs." till next year, being provided but not possibly in these dangers to be brought out of the upland country. Made no question in their last of 8th Sept. by a Danes vessel, that the Hopewell should longer remain here than the fine
of Oct., but the aforesaid occasions disabled all from complying with them, yet have great hope that readiness in Bantam will afford her a quick dispatch to Macassar so earnestly expected both in Surat and Europe. Her voyage to Bengala failed, foul weather not permitting her to land her goods, yet laid a good beginning to a future hopefull trade. In hope of a good supply next year from Europe, have contracted in Pettapoli "for about 70 ffs. goods" to be delivered in six months, near 6 per cent. cheaper than there lately bought, impresting only 125 pag., by which they may perceive what might be done had they means aforehand, till when the goodness of these parts cannot be truly discerned. By the President and Council's letter herewith sent, they will perceive the miserable condition of that country, which for many years cannot possibly be reduced to its pristine state; this may induce their better valuing of goods, especially as the Dutch are like to fail of supplies hence this year, none of their shipping being yet arrived. The President's orders for business shall be observed as near as may be. The General of the Danes has provided in Masulipatam another cargazoone for Macassar, intending in a flute (?) to accompany it thither but the report goes that she is unserviceable, which, if true, he must attend till next year, spending the interim in repairing his two rotten vessels. It is marvellous what great benefit that trade has produced to him, which would be worth partaking had we but means, for cloves are here the sole commodity in request, and if well bought in Macassar will yield cent. per cent. profit, sandal wood and turtle shells will also off at good rates; European commodities at present a drug. At the instant request of the Danes General have given license to two of his chief people to take passage on the Hopewell for Bantam, whence they intend for England on our ships; they are men of quality, and the King of Denmark, their master, will doubtless gratify the Company as much as that courtesy can deserve. The like request of the Dutch Governor in Pulicat has obtained license for an Englishman, a freeman of theirs, to take passage on this ship for Batavia. The 40 pieces fine Beetelias they required could not be provided, by reason the wars have shut up the passage from Golconda, but 21 pieces somewhat better than ordinary are sent in bale No. 90 from Pettapoli, with other remains of that place. Send likewise last year's accounts to be remitted to Surat. The Cape merchant of this ship, John Reeve, is furnished with copies of all this coast's affairs since this ship's arrival. Endorsed," Recd the 26 January 1631 in Bantam p ship Hopewell, & rec. in London by the ship London 4 Septemb. 1632." 3 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1411.] |
Dec. 25.
Aboard the Great James, Bantam Road. |
247. William Matthewe to the East India Company. His weakness of mind as well as body hinders his desire in giving them ample relation of these late seizures and attachments laid upon their Factors on the Star, but refers to the relations of George Willoughby their late Agent here, concerning the state their affairs now stand in, with the grievances and sufferings endured "for the best entrance into the discovery and hindrance of private trade at the Coast
Coromandel." Were but unwillingly entertained at Bantam, where news of their proceedings had arrived, yet expecting per the James approbation from the President and Council of their proceedings found the contrary, for upon the very day of the James's arrival was Geo. Willoughby arrested, kept aboard as a prisoner, guarded with two halberdiers, and not suffered to speak with any man out of their audience; his estate, books, and all writings seized, and Matthewe himself attached, as they term it, to take passage on the James for Surat; where they might have arrived by this time, had not multiplicity of private trade brought on her, kept them at Bantam from 25th Aug. to 8th Oct., for the Company's business was but the landing of 364 bales, and receiving 400 tons pepper and 32 tons cloves which were in readiness to be shipped; yet did not this long stay vend all the private trade, for since the James's second coming to Bantam there have been landed at the factory, besides some in Chinamen's houses, 77 bales 1 hhd. and 10 jars storax which nobody will challenge or own. The great quantities more sold on board or ashore may occasion great suspicion whether private goods were not the greatest hindrance to their no longer striving to attain Surat, for though they stood 10 days against the wind, a fair wind might have struck in so many more, and given them good hope of attaining their port; whereas now to the Company's great loss and their great grief they cannot arrive before the end of Sept. next, during which time many disrespects and abuses must be borne, for being sequestered from coming into the great cabin where all the rest of the Factors have free recourse, they will seem very contemptible even in the eyes of the foremast men. Pepper, cloves, and spices were, during Willoughby's agency, prohibited to be bought, except for the Company, by any man in their service on great penalties, yet could Capt. Morton procure 32 bags besides pepper, and the like prohibited goods are daily bought by men in this ship of the Company's servants in the factory, and stowed aboard, insomuch as the ship is very much pestered therewith; and this is a chief cause to raise the price of spices and beat down that of cloth, for before this ship's arrival cloth of Surat would have yielded in barter not less than 80 per cent. profit, but since it has been sold and bartered out of the ship to Dutch and Chinese at less than 12 per cent., yea very much to no profit, so that none could be sold out of the warehouses during her abode for money to defray charges of diet. Much more might be said of the damage the Company suffer by such quantities of private trade, which he leaves to the informations of men of more experience, as also in respect of his weakness at this time. 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1411 I.] |
| Dec. 31. |
248. Petition of John Mowle to the Admiralty. To be admitted cook of H.M.S. Victory in place of Edward Locker who has undertaken a voyage to the East Indies. With certificate from Kenrick Edisbury that Locker is entertained to serve under Capt. Weddell for a voyage to the East Indies. [Dom. Chas. I., Vol. CCIV., No. 109.] |
Dec. 31.
(? recd.. |
249. Collections of complaints against Richard Wylde. By John Skibbowe's letter from Surat, 31st Dec. 1631. (1.) That Skibbowe's journey to Agra was very chargeable and to no purpose, but occasioned by Wylde's treaty in private with Governor of Surat about the surprise of Diu (in margin, "by consultation 25 July 1628"). (2.) That Wylde returned on the Exchange out of the Red Sea 51 bales to the value of M. 32,000, caused the Company's mark to be put on them, and laded them on the Mary to Bantam for the Company's account as bought for money, whereof the Company scarce made their principal (in margin, books affirm it). (3.) Also 11 bales of indigo returned from Mocha, part of a greater quantity sent there by him, bought of Cann (? Khan) Shraffe for money and laden on the Blessing for the Company's account (in margin, "books affirm"). (4.) That 54 bales of steel were returned from Mocha, and he had more goods in that voyage than the Company; (5.) with which money he bought cloves and gained M. 31,000. (6.) He denied payment of Mr. Burt's bill for 200 tomans (in margin, "books and letters affirm it"). (7.) He blotted out of the Company's letters a clause about Mr. Page's coming home, before they were read in Council. (8.) He gives passports, whereby Capt. Swanley let go a prize as is supposed (in margin, "confessed"). (9.) He agrees for Deccan goods privately without Council, and secretly took of those bought for the Charles's fleet for his own use for above M. 20,000, and sold them again to buy diamonds to greater profit (in margin, "denied"). (10.) His excess in giving presents, and putting to account M. 400 for his sea provisions homewards, and M. 1,481 for provisions for the great cabin. |
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Out of Mr. Boothby's book of complaints No. 1. (1.) That 19 bales of silk and other goods of Wylde's were put into the Company's warehouse, and while Boothby was employed about them the customs of great sums of money were stolen. (2.) He suspects the President had a share with the Shraffe and broker in pepper bought being full of dust. (3.) The custom of 40,000l. was stolen in the Jonas's fleet from England, and the Blessing from Batavia (4.) Skibbowe's needless journey to Agra cost the Company 300l. (5.) The President alone buys, sells, takes up at interest, steals customs, grants passports, &c. without the consent of the Council Out of Mr. Boothby's book No. 2. (1.) That the President lends money to merchants and mariners to encourage them in privrte trade at 18 or 20 per cent. (in margin, "denied.") (2.) Boothby vouches divers witnesses (names given) for stealing customs in 1623 (3.) Gregory Clement reported he had much to say against the President about overrating Deccan goods sent for England, and undervaluing English gold (in margin, "denied.") (4.) Tho. Turner knows of the private trade and contract made with southern Factors, and that Wylde had sent to Bantam for the Company's account some unvendible goods of his own that came from Mocha; that the President's practice is to buy pepper in the rains, and after put it to the Company's account at 1½ and 2 M. profit per maunde; that he
knew of the stealing of custom for 16,000l. or 17,000l. out of the Blessing; that Wylde sent 3,000l. in the Exchange for Mocha; and that he carries his private trade in Banians names freight free, as if in regard of the Company's engagements to them. (5.) Custom is also stolen for Armenians, Moors, and Persians, and the English House made a receptacle to colour the same. (6.) Gourdas, the broker, and Cann Shraffe govern all the Company's affairs, who have been coadjutors for raising the President's great estate. (7.) Capt. Swanley took a small junk which after proved no prize, part of whose goods could not be taken into the ship by reason she was full of private trade, wherein the President and Council were deep, whereby the Company were damnified M. 10,000 in repayment. (8.) Indigo was returned from Agra for the President's account in a caphila the charges whereof were paid by the Company; and the President advised Clement to write in his general letters that the indigo was bought for Mirza Mahmud's account. (9.) Jaddo the broker's debt of 9,000 or 10,000 rup. was remitted and he in greater credit than before, contrary to the President's advertisement to Clement that Jaddo was a dangerous knave and had cozened the Company. (10.) Wylde wrote to Nathaniel Mountney about diamonds bought and to be bought for him. (11.) He employed the Blessing to Bantam chiefly for his own ends. (12.) He challenged. Capt. Weddell the field in his voyage homeward. (13.) He had a project to enforce all Pursers to subscribe that he was not a private trader, wherein he exceeded all others. (14.) He grants passes whereby a junk is released supposed prize, and another discharged from paying custom, for which it is supposed he had a bribe. (15.) He incensed Capt. Weddell to displace Purser Lloyd, because he could not bring him to his bow, promising to secure him from any damage. (16.) Gold is sent to Ahmedabad with great danger, and there sold at a lower rate than at Surat, to the Company's great charge and loss, to no other end but to colour the stealing of its custom, that the Governor may not discover it. 3½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIII., No. 1412.] |
| 1631 ? |
250. Mr. Smethwike's complaint of the management of the East India Company. Whereas the best part of the East India trade (which might be to Japan and China in regard of many thousands of cloths to be vented there yearly, and much treasure, silk, and other rich commodities to be returned hither) has been for seven or eight years wholly left off and deserted on pretences chiefly that the Company wanted stock to perform the same. On the same pretences the trade to Persia and many parts of India has been and is likely to be but faintly maintained, to the great damage of the Commonwealth. The very truth is there neither hath wanted nor would there now want any stock, were not some few persons opposite to the good of the trade. They having the management of the Company's great Joint Stock of 1,600,000l., which in the first or second years was esteemed worth 300,000l. profit, when scarce so much was paid in; ten years after they had brought it so to pass, as their estimation was 400,000l., loss of the principal stock. |
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In 1627 100l. was employed in East India Stock at prices then current for the account of the reparation of St. Paul's Church, which being well managed is now worth 1,200l., and in likelihood will yield 200l. per annum as long as the trade shall be well managed; in 1628 the Lord Treasurer having many years before paid in 250l., it then was not worth above 36l., but being afterwards well managed has yielded 520l., and likely to yield more; in 1627 the whole remainder of said Joint Stock was esteemed scarcely worth 100,000l. to the great discouragement of the Company, who were in danger to have been ensnared by a general sale at base rates, as lately they were to their great damage; but now the said 100,000l. value has in four years yielded 800,000l. Now again the Company have at least 800,000l. stock upon several voyages, whereof at least 700,000l. in India or going or coming, and no losses heard of, yet all is not esteemed worth any profit to the great discouragement of the adventurers; whereas if some few did not oppose the general good, it were easy by uniting the stocks, to prevent many inconveniences, and forthwith to show apparently at least 300,000l. profit, and in probability 200,000l. yearly gains, as long as the trade be well managed, keeping the whole value of stock, about a million, always in bank. Though the trade to Japan and China should still be left off, which is well worthy to be received, yet the trade to India and Persia, if well managed, is so ample and advantageous as may content the most avaricious traders in the world, as found in the Company's books of account, and certified by the chief Factors in India, who are ready to prove it; which if it were manifested to the Company would remove discouragements, and all cause of disfranchising the Free Brothers of the Company for not bringing in their money. Endorsed, "Smethwick." 1 p. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No. 97.] |
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251. Mem. That by letters from Surat and Bantam of 1629, 1630, and 1631 there appears want of stock at Surat; the running at interest there enslaving all our business; and at Bantam they were always in very great want of stock, and now many ships are there laid up and stock begins to be more full, they are in want of convenient shipping to manage the stock. And generally in all our letters the Presidents and Councils much bewail the Company's great misfortune in dissolving the Joint Stock and setting up particular yearly voyages which have already been greatly to the prejudice of trade and damage to the Company, which is also perceived here, and therefore easily may they be united with a little countenance and power. On same sheet as No. 399, p. 312, in previous volume. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No. 27.] |
| 1631 (?) |
252. Petition of Daniel Buckoke, a messenger of H.M. Chamber, to the Privy Council. Was by warrant employed for suppressing a book concerning the Amboyna business [entitled "a true relation of the unjust, cruel, and barbarous proceeding against the English at Amboyna"] which he carefully performed. But shortly after some persons endeavoured to obtain from him copy of warrant, which by misfortune had been lost or burnt in his house, and they have
vehemently complained and incensed their Lordships against him. Beseeches he may enjoy the comfort of their special favour as formerly, not having wilfully offended. [Dom., Chas. I., Vol. CCV., No. 34.] [The warrant was granted 7 Sept. 1631 but was revoked and all restraint upon the sale of the book was removed on 31 Oct., see Council Register, Car. I., Vol. VII., pp. 166, 217.] |
| 1631 (?) |
253. Petition of John Beaumont, George Forbes, Edward Collins, John Powell, and Ephraim Ramsey to the Privy Council. Petitioners having for seven years continually solicited for satisfaction for the bloody massacre at Amboyna, and the unjust confiscation of their estates, his Majesty, on the earnest petition of the States Ambassadors, directed them to repair to Holland to be examined according to orders given to Sir Henry Vane his Majesty's extraordinary Ambassador there. But having attended there almost 12 months to their charge of 100l. a man, they were at last left destitute of any relief or satisfaction and have been forced to run on credit and are likely to be cast into prison, whilst their wives and children miserably perish. Beseech their Lordships, even for Christ Jesus' sake, to take order for their present relief and for satisfaction for all their sufferings and losses. Referred "to a fuller Board." [Dom., Chas. I., Vol. CCV., No. 42.] |
|
Petitions to the East India Company of Persons who solicit Employment, Increase of Wages, or Payment of Wages due to their Relatives in the Company's Service. |
|
Date. |
Name of Petitioner. |
Subject of Petition. |
Reference. |
|
1631. |
|
Court Min. Bk. |
|
Jan. 7 |
Mrs. Greene |
Three months' pay yearly of Capt. Greene's wages. |
XII. 144 |
|
" 17 |
Abel Brooman |
Part wages to his wife |
" 150 |
|
" 24 |
John Boulter, imprisoned at Jacatra. |
Wages |
" 156 |
|
" 24 |
Anthony Dudgeon |
Pardon and readmission as porter |
" 157 |
|
" 24 |
Richard Adams |
Employment as porter |
" 157 |
|
" 24 |
Thomas Underwood |
Same |
" 157 |
|
" 26 |
John Dorrell, Surgeon of the London. |
Wages |
" 159 |
|
Feb. 11 |
Henry Hackett |
Wages of his uncle, Alexander Perry, deceased. |
" 167 |
|
" " |
John Reade |
Increase of wages for his brother Christopher at Bantam or Armagon. |
" 168 |
|
1631. |
|
Cort Min. Bk. |
|
Feb. 16 |
Thos. Fenn, Purser's make of the Palsgrave. |
Wages |
XII 173 |
|
" 18 |
Randall Jesson |
Employment, freedom from danger of imprisonment, and a loss of 20l.
|
" 175 |
|
" 23 |
Mr. Alnutt |
His servants wages |
" 178 |
|
" " |
Marg., wife of Wm. Hurton |
Her husband wages |
" 178 |
|
Mar. 9 |
Thomas Reignolds, Purser |
10l. imprest on account of wages |
" 187 |
|
" 18 |
Elizabeth Frizell |
Estate of Andrew Martyn, deceased |
" 190 |
|
" " |
Anne, wife of Augustae Barnett |
Part of her husband's wages |
" 191 |
|
" 23 |
Wife of John Roberts, Master of the Great James. |
Same |
" 195 |
|
" " |
Anne, wife of Samuel Brice |
Same |
" 195 |
|
" " |
Martha, wife of Thomas Miller |
Same |
" 195 |
|
" " |
Elizabeth, wife of Wm. Wilkins |
Same |
" 195 |
|
" 30 |
Jane, wife of George Milner |
Same |
" 198 |
|
Apr. 6 |
Margery, wife of Nicholas Norber, Master of the Roebuck. |
Same |
" 201 |
|
" " |
Mr. Harby |
Mr. Skibhowe's wages to Messrs. Bell and Potter. |
" 202 |
|
" 22 |
Mr. Broomrigg |
Wages |
" 214 |
|
" " |
Widow of John Cowell |
Her husband's estate |
" 215 |
|
" 27 |
Henry Stacy |
His wages |
" 218 |
|
" " |
Alice, wife of James Gibson |
Part of her husband's wages |
" 222 |
|
May 2 |
Jane, wife of George Sparling |
Same |
" 227 |
|
" " |
Mr. Hughson, on behalf of one Blewe alias Veneson. |
Wages |
" 234 |
|
" 16 |
Mary, wife of Wm. Makenobb |
Part of her husband's wages |
" 245 |
|
" " |
Judith, wife of John Watts |
Same |
" 245 |
|
" 20 |
John Wood |
Wages of his servant John Adams |
" 253 |
|
" 25 |
Wife of John Elias, the Persian |
Part of her husband's wages |
" 261 |
|
June 3 |
Margaret Fisher |
Same |
" 270 |
|
" 10 |
Leonard Piffe |
Wages |
" 276 |
|
July 1 |
Thomazin, wife of George Jacob |
Part of her husband's wages |
" 303 |
|
" " |
Sarah, wife of Robert Evington |
Same |
" 303 |
|
Names of Persons admitted and sworn Free Brethren of the East India Company. |
|
|
Date. |
Free Brethren. |
To whom bound. |
By fine or otherwise. |
Reference. |
|
1631. |
|
Court Min. Bk. XII. |
|
May 11 |
Thomas Mathewe |
Edward Browne |
Service and 10s. to poor's box. |
235 |
|
June 29 |
Sir Thomas Mettam |
Executor to Mr. Crawshawe. |
Gratis, with 10l. to poor's box. |
296 |
|
Transfers of Adeventures in the East India Company. |
|
Date. |
From |
To |
Amount. |
Name of Stock |
Reference. |
|
1631. |
|
£ |
|
Court Min. Bk. XII. |
|
" 5 |
Philip, Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery. |
JohnMilward, merchant. |
Remainder of his brother's 4,000 |
Not stated |
139 |
|
" " |
Richard Beresford |
John Clarke |
300 |
Second Persia voyage. |
163 |
|
" " |
John Eldred |
John Milward |
300 |
Same |
164 |
|
" 11 |
Thomas Burton |
Joseph Caran |
100 |
First Persia voyage. |
166 |
|
" 23 |
Robert Stone |
John Milward, merchant. |
300 |
Second voyage |
176 |
|
" 23 |
Thomas Fletcher, and Mary his wife, executrix to William Comptoin. |
Same |
1,200 |
Second Joint Stock. |
178 |
|
Mar. 18 |
George Mynn |
Philip Burlamachi |
1,000 |
Same |
190 |
|
" 25 |
Executors of Mr. Chamberlain. |
John Milward, merchant. |
4,400 |
Same |
260 |
|
" 27 |
Thomas Symonds |
Same |
400 |
First Persia voyage. |
266 |
|
June 3 |
John Powell, merchant |
Simon Lawrence |
250 |
Same |
267 |
|
" " |
Same |
Same |
300 |
Second Persia voyage. |
" |
|
" " |
Same |
Same |
300 |
Third Persia voyage. |
" |
