|
Oct. 1.
Vantapooly. |
313. Raphe Cartwright to Thomas Colley. Arrived at Baputly and visited the Governor and other Moors, but departed next day, that town not affording the sorts of cloth required. "At instant of my coming departed the Dutch on horseback having rid a mare all night, but see his ventura, his poor man having played the office of a good squire, and returning to his inn was met with by the Governors `pyones' laid hold on and clapt up in prison all night and his Master's dagger delivered to the Govr for its safer keeping, he cannot say but the Govr used him very kindly for after two or three gentle reproofs for straying on `Gimmerat' he delivered him his weapon, gave him beetle and so the noble knight pricked onwards to follow his adventures. This the Govr told me himself, and is a true history, but leave we them and return to ourselves." Then came to Ninapooly, visited his former acquaintance, both Committees, and weavers, and intends to stay till Friday, hoping to be with him in Pettapoli Saturday evening, and bring 1,000 pieces
of cloth in his convoy. Has the promise of 10 washers, if he can, will make them up to 15 or 20, to accompany him, and has given them his word for good usage with house room, &c. Therefore pray let "the Bramon and Janga" presently order 2 pago. worth of toddy trees, with other wood and all things necessary to build them a house in our great court next to the cook-room, ordering it forthwith to be done as a business much importing the dispeed of the ship; also let the Bramon, "so be he have chanam sufficient," get Cartwright's chamber plastered and made even, whiting it somewhat handsomely, which pray you see done and you shall have a better office when it falls. Pray you put my things in your chamber till it be finished that nothing be lost. Need not put him in mind to hasten the washers, for knows his care therein already, only he must have an eye over them that they cure the cloth well, and not spoil it in beating as they have done formerly. Prays him, with the help of the Bramon, look over the cloth the merchants bring in, and make its price that it may be delivered out to washers, but not to others till they have brought in what they already have, being a good quantity which Geva (?) will give him notice of; if the merchants desire moneys let them have gold, and defer its price making till his return, or order from Mr. Norris, keeping always aforehand with them 100 pago. at least, else will they show us a trick. What he does may be kept on a sheet of paper to be entered into Cartwright's book on his return. If he writes to Masulipatam to remember the steward of their wants, and to speak to the agent about his buttons; and also, with the Bramon, to make price of a parcel of fine moores he left in the warehouse, and keep them for him. An old merchant of theirs, Commer Bampa, promised to come to our house with musters; if he brings a parcel of good cloth Colley is to buy it for gold at 70 page. per sere, or venetranoes at 14 fa. per piece, guiding himself by the musters; the Bramon will tell him all things, who if he do good service shall be rewarded accordingly. Bespoke five or six tailors at his departure; desires him to set them on work with his pillowbeers when they shall have employment for two months at least. Janga to be reminded of what Cartwright told him, to fit the mats as directed, and to look he perform his promise to Colley. "Cauchee, that rogue," is not to be let into the house, for he will spoil and hinder all the business; Mr. Norris willed not to trust him in any kind, but if he did once more play the rogue to remember him bountifully. P.S.—The Bramon to buy cotton to embale their goods, and the packer if he come, to be set to work to make heads for bales. His words and manner must not be looked to precisely, or Colley will find fault enough; 'twas done in haste amongst heathens, neither does he keep copies. 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1451.] |
| Oct. 3. |
314. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Liberty given to Edward Collins to make use of the Company's name for recovery of the 20 barrels of powder condemned and sold for his debt. Committee intreated to be present at the business between the Company and Gabriel
Hawley, according to the reference from the Lord Keeper. Liberty granted to Messrs. Burton and Burr to write for 100 bags pepper at 15½ d. per lb., and to Peter Richart to have 50 bags pepper to transport, and 3 hhds. of cloves at 10s. per lb. Request of Mr. Coggan that his business might be ended, the differences between the Company and Messrs. Muschamp and Bix being long since concluded. Wm. Hodges and Tho. Smith, two boys, the Company's apprentices, who came home in the London, referred to Mr. Mountney to provide for them as he does for other the Company's boys. 1½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 69, 70.] |
Oct. 4.
Perrally. |
315. Raphe Cartwright to Thomas Colley. "To compliment neither time nor matter serveth, only loving salutes, which I commend and recommend to yourself." Arrived this night at a town called Perrally, on other side Baputly, with certain pingaes cloth, to which he will make an addition here, and repair near the Bar tomorrow evening, understanding that the Sangaree where they used formerly to pass the river is taken away by the Morradores and the passage stopped. Desires him, therefore, to go with his servant the Bramon and deliver the enclosed to Mier Ahassen, desiring him to appoint a good boat to go down to the Bar and bring their goods to Pettapoli. Intreats him to see it done, that they receive no damage, and to send Janga in the boat with mats to keep dry the goods should it rain. The Bramon also must bespeak some good chunam for our new washers, and great pots such as they use, delivering money in earnest, that they may be fitted with all expedition, and must also fit a place in the new room, to boil the cloth as the old washers do in our cook-room. If Mier Ahassen be not in town, repair to the chiefest Moor, and desire it of him, which he will not deny.½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1452.] |
| Oct. 5. |
316. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Order concerning the refining of the Company's saltpetre in the great kitchen of Crosby House, which will prove very offensive and inconvenient; it might be done with more safety in a shed in the back garden, and the scum would be very profitable by enriching the ground and making it fit for saltpetre. Ordered that a General Court be called this day fortnight to receive their resolutions for the disposure of the ship London's cargazoone. Proposition of Mr. Treasurer that whereas Messrs. Massingberd, Sambrooke, and Hurt had received 400l. and upwards for the poor, Committees might be appointed to examine the receipts and break open the box to see whether the accounts and receipts agree, and that the money be delivered into the Company's cash, and a bill given for same with interest for its increase for the benefit of the poor; which the Court well approved. On the motion of Capt. Milward that Committees be appointed to consider the settling of orders for the maintenance and governing of the Company's hospital and endowing same with lands, and other provisions for the relief of their poor ahnsmen, the Court intreated Capt. Milward and other Committees to take this religious and pious work into their serious thoughts, and present such orders as they think fit to be put in execution to the Court, who will be ready to join with
them in such a course as may be to the honour of God and the relief and comfort of the poor. The Secretary instructed to attend Sir James Bagg once more at his next coming to town, and intreat him forthwith to satisfy his debt of 515l. 2s. 7d., or put them in the way of receiving satisfaction without further delay or trouble. Letters read of 3rd and 4th Sept. from Richard Boothby, importing the Company's favourable consideration of his services in India, and imploring by way of grace and bounty what his conscience, as he alleged, told him to be as due to him as the hireling's labour that came at the first hour, demonstrating the same by an account amounting to 316l. 13s. 4d.; but the general opinion of the Court was that they had already afforded him more favour than he deserved, and if he did not thankfully accept thereof to revoke what they had done, but in regard he is a poor man with wife and children, and in remembrance of his intended service in his protest to Capt. Weddell aboard the Charles, it was resolved to enlarge the former sum of 200l. to 300l. on certain stated conditions, which were undertaken for him by two grave Committees; but before any part of this be paid, Committees were intreated to report to the Court whether the debt taken up by him at interest were satisfied. On consideration of the request of Andrew Coggan for clearing his accounts, the Court omitting his private trade, insisted only on two particulars: Mr. Hoare's letter of 6th Dec. 1630, charging him to have wronged the Company 1,050 Rs. of 8 by selling a parcel of the Company's opium and returning his own, mere dirt; and the damage received by John Moria Moretti, an Italian, in respect of a junk belonging to Coggan and Short, whereby the Dutch recovered from the Company 6,500 Rs.; to which Coggan answered the first charge was untrue, his own opium having been sold before the Company's was landed, and it was through the neglect of Samuel Read, who suffered it to remain so long buried under ground; and for the junk, he confessed he bought her, but long before that accident disclaimed all right in her if Moretti were employed; nevertheless he freely referred himself to the censure of the Court, to whose judgment he freely submitted. The decision of the Court was after discussion carried by the erection of hands, to which he seemed willingly to condescend. 6 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 71–76.] |
Oct. 6.
Masulipatam. |
317. John Norris and Thomas Clarke to Thomas Colley. Expected the merchants they contracted with last year would have been more forward in bringing in their cloth; their promise is but of small validity when "screets" under their hands are of no force; he ought not therefore to rely thereon but to send to their houses to solicit them daily, using not only good words and fair promises but also threats if need require, for these people are wondrous slack in their performances. The 10 washers Mr. Cartwright has procured at Ninapoli will come them very well to pass, for only two will be induced to come from hence, through the great employment they have here from Dutch, Danes, and Moors; these were advised in their last to accompany that Pattamare, but remain
behind two or three days to finish some work received from Moors. Two packers departed towards him yesterday, with whom they have agreed for 2½ pago. per month; they are to have no batty, but to serve as need shall require, and for embailing every day a little will be sufficient. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1453.] |
Oct. 7.
Masulipatam. |
318. Same to Same. Just received his of the 3rd, complaining of troubles occasioned by his Governor, and how the Company's estate might suffer for want of a good guard; which knowing, he is to blame for not entertaining more of those country soldiers; better the Company be at some small charge than that their whole means there should be endangered. English at present can spare none, being but four, and all employed. Wherefore he must provide himself of all things, committing the money to the ground in some convenient place in his house for better safety. P.S.—Have written herewith to the chief of the rebellious crew, and will procure Meirquimaldin's letter to them likewise for his fair quarter. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1454.] |
| Oct. 10. |
319. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Resolved, on further consideration of the charge, and of the danger, inconvenience, and offence it may give to themselves and their neighbours, to annihilate their former order for erecting a shed in the back garden at Crosby House for refining their saltpetre, and to require it to be done in their yard at Blackwall. Report of Mr. Blunt that there is not less than 24 lb. of dust and sand in each hogshead of cloves brought home in the London, the Factors to be more careful to prevent the like abuse. Letter read from Mr. Coggan beseeching a hearing of his cause touching Mr. Hoare's accusation against him for having wronged the Company of opium which was heard at last Court, not doubting but to purge himself of this aspersion, which was seconded by a grave and worthy Committee, and after some dispute four Committees were intreated to hear what he can say in defence of himself, and report to the Court. Motion of Capt. Harris to be restored part of the 126l. 10s. 10d. paid by him for freight of private trade in 1613, denied in regard it was paid into the First Joint Stock, which has long since ended. Examination of (sic) revealing the intended plot for robbing Crosby House, the Bridge House, and a house in Lime Street read by Sir Hugh Hammersley, therefore Mr. Treasurer was intreated to strengthen the Treasury where most weak, so Blunt and Spiller were required to cause strong locks and bolts to be set upon the doors and gates of the outward and inward yards, and to be always provided with pistols ready charged to withstand any attempt at night. On consideration of Capt. Hall's business, it was thought fit to remit the freight of 233 pieces of damask, 177 of taffetas, and six carpets, but he was ordered to pay freight for the rest of his goods which amounts to 245l.; but his cloves, being a commodity prohibited by the proclamation to be allowed 6s. per dollar for them according to their prime cost in the Indies and that the same be allowed to all who bring home prohibited commodities, and to free them from freight and custom; but as Capt. Hall seemed not to be satisfied
and his accounts are not perfected, he was advised to get them ready against Friday next. 200 bags of pepper contracted for by Messrs. Cordell and Gayreat the price and time formerly writ. On petition of Nicholas Bix concerning his private trade brought home in the London, in regard of his good service for eight years, that all his goods be delivered without freight, except four bales of calicoes to be brought up to the House to be viewed. Committees for silk desired to deal with Sir Wm. Acton for allowance for defective silk. Freight remitted to Hugh Hubbart, warehouse keeper in the Custom House, of 100 lb. pepper bought of Judith Locke. Bill of 8l. 17s. 6d., of Edmund Chambers, Master of the Barge, for carrying down the Committees to Erith and back upon the unlading of the London to be paid. On information that the private trade brought home by mariners and others in the London was but small, and all brought according to the Company's order in the Custom House, the Court to manifest they were not backward to recompense obedience, remitted freight on all goods of small bulk, but the Court to be informed if there be any of great bulk. Adventures of John Awbrey transported to Wm. Gayre and passed over to the Company for money owing for two lots of silk. 5½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 77–82.] |
Oct. 12.
Aboard the Mary, Gombroon Road. |
320. Capt. James Slade to the East India Company. Gave account by the Blessing of what happened in their voyage from England; 28th April the Mary and Exchange sailed from Swally bound for Armagon and Masulipatam, leaving the William laden for Bantam and the Blessing laden for England, in the Road. Arrived at Armagon 24th May, and sailed 27th with Mr. Norris the chief Factor for Masulipatam, where they arrived 30th, and were to stay but 15 days for receipt of goods for Persia, but were obliged to stay till the last of June. Received 400 or 500 parcels of goods and about 130 passengers, which at 16 per cent. freight and 20 Ryals for each passenger amounted to 8,000 Ryals of 8 paid there; this in time may prove very beneficial if followed with shipping yearly, but the Moors must have knowledge of it a year beforehand for providing their goods. The Company may gain by those commodities themselves in Persia, if they give order for timely investments, of which no doubt the President and Council will advise. Sailed from Masulipatam 29th June, and with much trouble by contrary winds and calms, crossed the equinoctial 21st July, met the general wind 5th Aug., crossed the equinoctial again 24th, and 15th Sept. came to anchor at Jasques; where finding none of their ships arrived they left a letter with the Sultan, certifying their going for Gombroon, and that they understood of no force the enemy had in the gulf. Sailed 17th for Gombroon and met three Dutch ships bound thither from Batavia, Jno. Castison, Commander, the same that was Commander of the three ships stayed so long by the Company at Portsmouth. Understood from him that the William was safely arrived at Bantam, also the Speedwell from the coast of Sumatra; 3rd Oct. to their great joy arrived Capt. Weddell with his fleet, together with the Great
James and pinnace Intelligence; Mr. Skibbowe dead and buried at Augustine, and Agent Heynes died in August last; Mr. Gerkham (Kirkham) is a welcome man hither; could wish the Company had no worse at Surat. Ready to set sail thither. Endorsed, "Received in the Persian packet overland 25 Sept 1633." 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1455.] |
| Oct. 12. |
321. Abstract of preceding. ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1456.] |
| Oct. 12. |
322. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Complaint against Constantine Woodroffe, late Steward of the London, for having conveyed ashore divers cloves, nutmegs, and pepper belonging to another man, to dispose of to his own use, but they were seized by the farmers' deputies. Henry Smith elected Land Purser of the Discovery, and Richard Langley of the Reformation, admonished to be more vigilant than heretofore, with direction to acquaint the Company if the farmers' deputies connive at private trade, that Sir John Wolstenholme may question them. Ordered, that the Discovery and Reformation be launched next Spring, and that the joiner and painter be required to expedite their work while in dock. Mountney required to make an estimate of provisions for the two ships for 18 months; and Ellam to draw out a particular of commodities fit to be sent in them. Suit of Nicholas Gray, a ship's carpenter, maimed at Jacatra, to be admitted into the hospital at Poplar, but the Court understanding that he hath two or three children, and like to have more, thought meet rather to bestow upon him 20s., and ordered Fotherby to give him employment in the Yard. Renewed request of Capt. Hall that his business with the Company may be ended; having duly considered all particulars, it was put to the question what favour should be granted touching the freight of his private trade, which was found to amount to 266l. 4s. 4d., not including the cloves, four chests of silk stuffs, and six carpets, 6s. per R. being allowed him for the prime cost of cloves, and ordered, by erection of hands, in regard the Company give him no gratification for coming directly into the Downs, that he be remitted 100l. of said freight in full of all demands whatsoever. Mr. Burlamachi to be conferred with about honeycombed and unserviceable ordnance, it being conceived he may deal for them and send them into the Low Countries to be new bored. Freight remitted of 100 lb. of black pepper brought home in the London by Thomas Merchant, deceased. Committees for mariners' freight of the Palsgrave intreated to take the like pains for the London, the Court inclining to be favourable to such as have brought their goods into the Company's hands. Gratuity of 10s. to Barnabas Francklyn, a boy, hurt in one of his legs, at Jambi. 3½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 82–85.] |
Oct. 16.
Spahan. |
323. Wm. Gibson to Joseph Hopkinson, "President for the English nation in India in Surat." Has expressed in his general letter general business, but this concerns his own particular. To keep up the garb of predecessors and the credit of the Company has been enforced to 20 tomans, expense, which he had rather were in
his purse than on his back; but except the President [and Council] with joint consent augment his means or give him some allowance, his purse will not longer maintain it. Report of "our outward bravery" may judge us to be men of great matters, but our inward linings would come far short of surmises; besides, this year is the last of his covenant with the Company, and except they augment his salary, as he expects, by this fleet, will be unwilling to reside any longer; if they forget, hopes the President will remember him, for were some living they could testify that he has deserved more than the Company have allowed him. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1457.] |
| Oct. 17. |
324. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Report of Mr. Governor that the pepper brought home in the Palsgrave is all underwritten for; the quantities and names propounded as security allowed by the balloting box. Renewed suit of Robert Stone that the broak of 50l. charged on his account for not transporting 10 bags of pepper be remitted for reasons alleged, which the Court found most improbable, and refused to discharge said broak until he could give better satisfaction. Letter read from Sec. Coke requiring, by direction of his Majesty an account of certain propositions framed by some of the Generality before the last Court of Election, and trenching to the altering of the government of the Company, viz., what they were, by whom propounded, and by what authority and by whom maintained. Mr. Governor made known how he had laboured to have suppressed the further questioning of this business, but finding his Majesty would not let it pass, the Court, after consideration, conceived there was nothing more to be done but to conform themselves to his Majesty's pleasure, and therefore required their Secretary to make a collection of the particular passages, with the aid of Messrs. Mun and Bownest, and present the rough draft to the Court. On relation of Mr. Mun that a place had been set out at Blackwall for refining of their saltpetre, but the furnaces not yet ordered, it was, after debate, concluded that said saltpetre be refined in the back garden at Crosby House, where a shed is to be set up with furnaces and other necessary things, and not at Blackwall. Petition of Thomas Whitley, who had served 10 years in the Indies, and came home in the Palsgrave, to be remitted freight of his goods, including 200 lbs. of cloves given him, as alleged by the King of Macassar for carrying the old King of Tallowe; but the Court received so little satisfaction from him concerning his knowledge of the estate and papers of Henry Short, that he was for the present dismissed without answer. Report read of Fotherby and Swanley upon petition of Zachary Gilby concerning the charge of repairing the wharf at Blackwall, Gilby to attend on Friday. Ordered, that the remainder of the estate of Thomas Tempest, deceased, in the Company's hands, be paid to his brother. Ordered, that the account of Jeremy Sugar (Shukers), deceased, be cleared, and what is due paid to his wife. Freight remitted to Capt. Alnutt, Commander of the London, on 1,400 or 1,500 lb. pepper, in regard he had brought the ship into the Downs without suffering any goods to be landed
or conveyed away, with a gratuity of 100l., according to a former order in that behalf. 4 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 86–90.] |
| October ? |
325. East India Company to Sec. Sir John Coke. According to his Honour's letter of 24th Sept. last, signifying that his Majesty, taking notice that before their last Court of Election, some of the Company, backed with a few of the nobility, took the boldness to frame propositions to change the government of the Company, which affront his Majesty will not pass over, but expects to be informed what those propositions are, by whom propounded, and by what authority maintained; make bold to remonstrate the same, as follows. At a General Court held 10th Feb. 1632, one of the Generality, pretending the good of the Company, questioned a printed book of orders made on mature deliberation by the Court of Committees 10 or 11 years since, for the government of the Company's affairs, being at that time in some disorder, and alleged that the Court of Committees had no power to make such orders; whereupon a Committee of 24 of the Generality was chosen to peruse said book of orders, notwithstanding intimation given by persons of quality that the book was so well compiled for government of the Company that there was no reason to question it, having been concluded upon by consent of the whole Court, and argued from Court to Court for a whole year, the Court of Committees conceiving they had power so to do by his Majesty's letters patent. Fifteen of said Select Committee met 13th Feb. following, and some of the first orders in said book were read, till Thomas Smethwike, being none of said Select Committee, moved to be heard concerning divers other orders, and it was moved by Lord Say that each should bring his observations to the next meeting. April 25th, 12 of said Select Committee met, when Smethwike presented 21 orders conceived by himself, which were read, as also a paper containing 11 orders conceived by Abraham Chamberlain. Smethwike's orders they cannot particularly set down, for he called for his paper again, and hath ever since concealed them, but are informed they aimed chiefly at an alteration of the present government. Specify the 11 orders presented by Chamberlain. Ten of the said Committees met 8th May, when Smethwike proposed that the Deputy Governor might be one of the 24 Committees, a thing that never was since the erection of the Company, and the Committee concluded on the four orders following to be presented to the next General Court, viz.: 1. That no man continue Governor longer than one year at a time. 2. That no man be chosen Governor but such as is or hath been a Committee. That the Deputy be one of the 24 Committees; and that six of the Committees be yearly changed, whereof four to be such as had stood longest. These orders were presented by Lord Say, Sir Edward Wardour, John Holloway, and Abraham Chamberlain to the Court of Committees 11th May to be read at the General Quarter Court in the afternoon, with a declaration herein set forth (see ante, No. 274), where, after being largely debated, they were rejected. May 15th, 10 of said Select Committees met and resumed perusal of the printed
book of orders, and examined them one by one, and taking 15 of the first, the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th were confirmed as now printed, but the others were altered as herein set forth, No. 7 making it unlawful, without the consent of 13 Committees present in Court, out of the 24, to choose or displace a Commander, Factor, or Officer, make wages, reward any man, or conclude any important matter in the affairs of the Company. And lastly, eight of said Select Committees met 13th June, but because the General Court authorised 24 or any 10 to that work, they proceeded not, nor have ever since had any meeting touching same. 6 pp. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No. 103.] |
Oct. 17.
Masulipatam. |
326. Richard Fitch to Thomas Colley. The waters have been so high between Pettapoli and this place that he could not send, but now they are abated has sent him his Sittern (?) and Sittern book, the felt cloth, and a piece of Gulkinda stuff as good as any to be got at that price; it cost him a pagoda and a faname, and a great deal of intreaty; would have sent another, but did not know how he would like the price; intreats him to convert the same into caps for him of a good sort. Prays him certify Mr. Cartwright that he has sent him 64 biscuits, a pair of tables, some English fish, and one gulgalet, of which none are to be had, this being that which he himself used. Has sent likewise Colley's pillow; prays him to let the price be paid, for he has only given him battie and cash to carry him over the river. Endorsed, "From Mr Fitch, Oct. 20th 1632." 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1458.] |
Oct. 18.
Masulipatam. |
327. Thomas Clarke to Thomas Colley. Time and opportunity would not permit his sending a few lines until this present, their friends being all gone to Bengala, and he left with as much business as he can perform. His spare hours are spent with Mr. Fitch, the Steward. Prays him remember his service to Mr. Cartwright. Wishes they were sharers in their good drink now growing to a low ebb, not being above 12 pint bottles, which the master bestowed on him; were it worth sending so far, it had been sent them ere this. Endorsed, "Rd the 21st 8br 1632." ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1459.] |
| Oct. 19. |
328. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Complaint of Gabriel Hawley that Mr. Sambrooke refused to subscribe the account between him and the Company, according to the Lord Keeper's order; but Sambrooke answering that Hawley would have the account of debtor and creditor drawn out in two several papers, which would leave it in his choice to produce that account which should make for him and conceal the other against him, the Court told Hawley they would obey the Lord Keeper's direction, and their books should be produced before the referees, but to underwrite the accounts as Hawley desired was neither fit nor reasonable. Report of Mr. Governor that notwithstanding the long suspension of the treaty with the Dutch Commissioners, he understood they were now desirous to come on again, not only for the point of restitution, but also for reglement of trade for the future, and that the course
intended was not by any more meetings of the Commissioners, but by the mediation of a third person well affected to both sides, who being truly informed of the pretences of each, will, by making an offer of a lump sum, compose and give an end to these differences. This proposition was made known "by the said party" to the Lord Treasurer, who very well approved thereof, and the Court gave their willing consent, but conceived a lesser number of Commissioners would serve, so made choice of Mr. Governor, Mr. Deputy, Aldermen Garwaie and Abdi, and Mr. Mun. Dispute as to what to propound to the General Court in the afternoon concerning the disposure of the pepper and cloves returned in the London; to sell the pepper by lots, which had given content in the case of the Palsgrave, at 16d. per lb. screened, none to underwrite for above 200 bags or less than 50; and the price of cloves set at 10s. per lb., sifted, to be transported. Committees to speak with Sir John Wolstenholme and Farmers of the Customs for an abatement of custom in respect of dust and sand mingled with their cloves. Dispute whether to refine their saltpetre in Crosby House or at Blackwall; resolved to have it done in their great kitchen at Crosby House, where the work may be well done without annoyance or danger. Consideration of the certificate and estimate of Fotherby and Swanley of the charge of repairing Zachary Gilby's Wharf at Blackwall. It being the season for killing and salting beef and pork, Committees to take order for effecting same for the Discovery and Reformation. |
|
Minutes of a General Court. Report of Mr. Governor of the safe arrival of the London, not only with a good cargazoone of pepper and cloves, but so tight and able as she is fit for another voyage. Opinion of the Court of Committees as to the sale of their pepper in lots concurred in, but the price suspended till they meet again; for cloves, any man to have liberty to underwrite for 5 or 10 hhds. on the terms proposed. Relation of Mr. Governor of the late news which is come to the knowledge of the Court concerning the great famine and mortality in the Indies, where, besides the death of President Rastell and 10 other of the Company's Factors, there hath died and fled of the natives about Surat 30,000 at least, which though it may peradventure somewhat distract their affairs for a time, yet seeing it is the hand of God that hath done it, they must with patience submit thereunto. Nevertheless they have news of the safe arrival of Capt. Slade's fleet, which arrived at Surat in October last, so it is hoped that fleet hath supplied Factors again, whereby the Company shall receive little or no prejudice by that accident; not doubting by the grace of God to have a return of those or other ships before Xmas next, and therefore desired the Company not to be discouraged at anything they shall hear abroad. 6 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 90–95.] |
(Oct.) 19.
Gombroon, under sail. |
329.. Wm. Falle to President Joseph Hopkinson. Having encountered at Port their expected ships, could not omit the opportunity of sending him by Capt. Pynn in the Exchange one chest of rosewater as his "Pishcaske" for want of a letter. Made
bold to make Mr. Sili (who arrived here with the rest of the delinquent Factors) messenger hereof, whose worth being well known unto him, Falle need not recommend. ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1470.] |
Oct. 20.
Royal James. |
330. Consultation held by John Banggam, John White, Rich. Barry, Ant. White, Edward Hall, and Fras. Preson. Displacing Thomas Malthus from being Purser's Mate, where he was put by Capt. Morton, and turning him afore the mast; for slandering and depraving of George Clarke, Steward, purloining and vending 4 hhds. of rack "with an impudent brazen face," refusing to produce witnesses and making his brags that the Commander and his Council durst not punish him. |
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Further consultation same day, committing Thomas Malthus, Purser's Mate, and John Conniers, Corporal, to the bilboes for 24 hours without any other sustenance than rice and water, for having when heated with drink on shore in Gombroon, challenged one the other into the field, where they had like to have maimed each other in contempt of the ship's command, whose orders expressly forbid such or any kind of quarrelling. Together, 1½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1460.] |
Oct. 21.
Gombroon. |
331. Edw. Kirkham, Thos. Rosse, John Sherland, and Wm. Fall to the East India Company. The Charles, Jonas, Dolphin, Hart, and Swallow from England, Commander Capt. Weddell, arrived 2nd curt.; and with them the Royal James from Bantam and pinnace Intelligence met at Johanna, the pinnace bringing commission from the President and Council of Surat, without any exception to make this place their first Port. Have, therefore, observant to their Worships' pleasures in case the ships should come first to Gombroon, opened all letters addressed to Surat. Nine days before, arrived the Mary and Exchange from Masulipatam, with a freight of goods and passengers, whereon they will subsequently enlarge. In answer to the Company's letter of 16th March last, with transcript of one of 6th Jan., the original whereof not yet come to this factory, are heartily glad for the safe arrival of the Discovery and Reformation, but much discontented at the damage sustained by ill stowage of the silk, through the bales lying in the snow, but are most grieved at the complaints of extraordinary want of weight in the silk, though not having been in the country can neither excuse nor condemn the agents. It seems the silk bought at Gombroon and weighed by their own weigher held out full weight; but for that brought out of a cold country into an extreme hot one, it is very probable it will lose somewhat of weight by drying. Are resolved to re-weigh all silk from the King, deliver it by weight to the Malem that has charge of it down, and receive it again by weight; and will embale it in cotton aloft (i.e., up country) if they can be furnished from Surat. Will embale drugs as desired; wormseeds in case they buy any, shall be very well garbled. Cannot say anything about the 100 lb. rhubarb which should be sent, the bale of silk that is wanting, or the bills of lading for the silk on the Reformation and Discovery;
must leave to Mr. Gibson to answer who is now at Spalian, in like manner the coarseness of the silk which their Worships so much complain of. Do not think it is the King of Persia's will they should receive Cannar for Sherwan, there being a difference between them of 4s. per lb. in England. Cannot be so exact with the great men that deliver them the silk, as if they bought it in the bazaar bale by bale, "but to be hoodwinked at the receipt of the silk it shall not be so in our time" and will make good use of the bale of coarse silk returned. Take special notice of the Company's desire now rather to have Leye than Ardarse, making a difference of 2s. per lb.; and if they can make choice (which is not likely) will have Ghilan of the finest sort, Ghilan being according to contract at 38 and Shirwan 43 tomands per load. Presume the contract with the King is for the best, and believe the Dutch would be glad to be in it, the King having sent forth his firmands that "noen" shall sell them any silk in Ghilan or any other place. Confess if there were free liberty to buy silk in the market, they could more merchantlike answer the Company's expectations, but then their cloth and kersies would not find such dispatch. Take notice of the addition made to the remains of the Joint Stock, as well for the present as future voyages, and wish the particular voyages were brought all into one Stock, for it does not a little puzzle them to know what to do, the cloth of the Mary's fleet being yet in magazine untouched, and though that of the second voyage is delivered on account to the King, yet there wants 4,600 tomands ready money for the accomplishment of Mr. Heynes's contract for this year. Take notice what is designed for this factory, with things for presents, and what was to have been furnished from Surat, which place is so changed in regard of the mortality there that there are now no such hopes of benefit as formerly, "neither is like to come unto his pristine state of long time." Have seriously considered how vehemently the Company urge them to prevent all inducements to private trade by their own example or loan of moneys, and to enforce the penalty of loss of wages to those that dare become delinquents, and promise to keep themselves untainted therein. The men left here by the Charles' fleet shall be sent home according to order, there remaining here but three of the seven, viz., Jno. Monnox, Gove, and Carpenter, Greene and Sad dock being dead, and James Watts gone home; which cannot be effected till the return of the ships, one being very sick below, and the others aloft at Shiraz and Spahan. As for those now come to supply this factory, no partiality shall be used, but such as deserve well shall be preferred, and the unserviceable or irregular sent back. Have perused the Company's letters missive to the King of Persia and Duke of Shiraz, but whereas they take Mullaim-beage to have done ill offices in their affairs, he is now the greatest friend they have in Court, and one they must cherish by all means possible, and therefore in the "translates" they must not blanch (sic) his reputation, and it is he that hath retained all the silk for them and will not permit the Dutch to have it. Will use their best endeavours to send frequent advice overland as well by way
of Constantinople as Bagdad, knowing that it is the life of business that advice run quick. Have received out of the ships for this factory 333 bales cloth, 36 bales kersies, eight cases hot waters, one of paper, quills and ink, a beam scales and weights, and four mastiff dogs; all to outward appearance well conditioned (except two cloths out of the Hart spoiled), and believe better than have been landed here a long time, in regard of the Commanders great care in cooling the holds, besides the ships coming direct hither, which cannot but prove very beneficial. Are very glad the Company have bettered the sorts of cloth, that they may regain the repute of them which began much to decline. Have landed three bales of those "destinated" for Surat, of higher price, to make trial at Shiraz, which place may be brought to spend 300 or 400 cloths per ann., if they be good, of stammels, reds, and greens, 13l. and 14l. price well bought, dried, and dressed, wherein the Dutch shame us; in these sorts, with some aiam (?) colours, they are a little animated as well for Spahan, but for ordinary sorts, beseech them to refrain for a year, and to help them with moneys to put off the Mary and Charles' complements. Have taken ashore 18 chests containing 72,000 pieces proportionable out of every ship, including the Rix [? dollar] pieces, which they conceive will be better put off here than at Surat; which sum, though greater than a third of their goods, was necessary to be dispensed immediately, or there was no likelihood to have any silk this year, according to their advices from Spahan; the King retaining 500 in 600 bales till 4,600 tomans should be paid in, as the arrear of 33,000, whereof had been given in cloth 21,400, and in ready money 6,000 (sic, these sums amount to 32,000); which made them advise with all speed Messrs. Gibson and Cooper therein, though it did not a little distract them that being prepared for the market with two-thirds goods and one-third moneys, they should be required to furnish a greater sum to help off the cloth belonging to the second voyage. But considering this business is of the nature of water, "while it stands it putrifies, we had reason therefore to make it active," their inducements were many, they saw that such a sum might be well spared, especially Surat standing in the bare estate it does for commodities, they could not but despair of sending home any silk this year without it, and they would have failed in their contract with the King, to their great disgrace, and the Dutch would have put a scorn upon us, who gape for it with their chests full of moneys. Doubt not therefore that the Company will be very propense in the censure of their actions, and pray God their advice come not up too late, three Dutch ships having arrived 10 days before them, which will cause them to he very instant for the silk. Are now enforced to press the President and Council of Surat to furnish them with a competent quantity of goods fitting this place at the return of our ships that may yield present moneys; and have sent them a list, so they may be enabled to comply with the King for next year's "mount" of silk. Have also given them the like advice as their Worships about the business of Masulipatam being of such consequence. Having no occasion to use the cloth consigned for Surat, and by the postscript sent into
the Downs designed also for this place, have transferred it thither to the best vent, wishing not to be clogged with more than they have already. Send enclosed invoice of goods and passengers brought by the Mary and Exchange from Masulipatam, whereby their Worships may perceive that with freight and customs that voyage will benefit them near upon 3,000l. This is likely to prove a better business than that of Surat, and the first thing is to settle a constant time for shipping to be there every year about April, that the merchants may have time to prepare themselves for the voyage, which is a much better way than that of Surat, where they pay very chargeable customs. For our parts that way two ships yearly sent cannot gain less than 10,000l. a year by freight and customs, besides investments that will yield 60 or 70 per cent. profit; another main reason why Gombroon should be made the first port. Their Worships may be pleased to have a thought how the southern parts may concur with these, for the Flemings make their ready money here with commodities brought thence, spices affording very near as good prices here as in Europe, and in case the Company have any design for China, there are commodities that will make great profit thence, one in chief is sugar. Now find the Duke of Shiraz very busy in raising an army for the taking of Muscat, but whether he will employ us or the Dutch in the expedition is somewhat doubtful. The Dutch have promised, if the Duke please, to serve him, thereby to ingratiate themselves into his favour and the King's, being much discouraged in this trade. Believe the Duke cares not for the service of the Dutch, but depends upon us and are come to this exigent, that they must either lessen their favour with him who is the pillar of their affairs or undertake the war. "I have therefore armed myself" with a consultation of seamen and merchants. having withall the President and Council's advice from Surat. It is generally thought to be a very easy war, and that the place cannot hold out 10 days, in regard the water may be cut off without any difficulty and of the irresistible army the Duke means to send. As for the Portugals, they are not like to have any help from Goa, where they want men to furnish their shipping. It will certainly be a very good rendezvous for our shipping, and increase the customs, and somewhat will accrue by the place itself. The Duke intends to be master of the Gulf, or at least of the ports, and avoid the annoyance of so ill a neighbour as the Portugal; cannot say what they shall do therein, nor do they believe the Company are willing to assist him in that war further than necessitated unto, "and that's our resolution." The Portugals daily decline in the Indies, and no question of opportunity will be offered either at "Syndie or Seland," or other parts adjacent, to join issue with those people, and settle a very beneficial trade. Two Dutch merchantmen and a convoy from Batavia are in Port, and have landed some sugars and spices; the merchantmen are reported bound for Holland, and come hither to take in such silks as they should find in readiness for them, whereof none are yet come down; believe they will fail much of their expectation. Cannot examine the customers' books for what goods the Dutch have landed, in regard they are as free of custom as we are. Know
not what Mr. Gibson may do by calculation or guess, but cannot give any satisfaction therein, yet will not relinquish our right of that nation. Have been very inquisitive here after pearls, but cannot meet with any parcel at all worth buying; know not what may be done when the merchants come down about three months hence, but not unlikely to meet with a parcel either here or aloft. Thank the Company for their worthy remembrance of this factory with two butts of sack, being quite destitute of any wine at all. Reasons for making Gombroon the first port of their ships, which they presume will cause the President and Council to second their last year's commission to the next fleet, and divert the Company's opinion from their going first to Surat; nor will there be much time lost, so they may be here about the middle of September, being a reasonable season for our people to be down. The death of Edward Seigar the 13th present has brought them to a precise consideration how Surat stands furnished with Factors, in regard that that place is the chief seat of all India. It will therefore concern the Company to make supply hereafter; in the meantime hearing the President was sickly, have by consultation sent Mr. Rosse to assist them, who is to return hither in case his entertainment there shall not suit with his mind. Have not yet been able to do anything with the tin, but will use their best endeavours for the dispatch of it. An overture has been made by the Grand Armenians in Spahan to be their contractors for whatsoever quantity of silk they want to transport from Persia, and that with a free approbation of the King. Will more at large advise thereof on coming to Spahan. Confess if they may thus deal in a more merchantlike way than they can with the King, it is worthy to be embraced, provided the conditions be as good, which is not unlikely in regard they are great monied men that proffer it; besides it will be a means to extenuate their excessive charges in presents. Endorsed, "Recd by the Blessing." 10 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1461.] |
| Oct. 24. |
332. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Gratuity of 6s. to Anne, widow of Thomas Miller, who died in the Discovery. Messrs. Markham and Handson forthwith to go in hand with the perfecting of the account of the three voyages. Request of Wm. Moreton, executor to Capt. Moreton deceased, for payment of 240l. owing by said Captain, answered that until he had proved the will or taken out letters of administration the Court had no warrant to satisfy said debt. Renewed motion of Capt. Crispe for allowance of clooffe on a parcel of saltpetre bought by Mr. Rich, denied. Freight remitted on 1,850 lb. of pepper brought home by the mariners and others in the London albeit prohibited by the proclamation, in regard the poor men had nothing else to buy for their benefit at Bantam, by reason the Palsgrave's men had gleaned up all the commodities the mariners were wont to buy, and in regard of the ship's expedition in her voyage to and from Jambi for lading, and that they came immediately into the Downs without breaking bulk. Petition of John Fowke to the Lord Treasurer with his Lordship's
answer deferred for consideration. Petition of Andrew Heare to be continued in the Company's service for making compasses, hour glasses, and other turners work referred to Mr. Kirby. Report of Mr. Mun concerning the great increase of rent demanded by Mr. Biggs for a further lease of the tavern and deal yard and shed at Blackwall; to treat only for the ground whereon the boat shed is built; but for reparation of the wharf and sluice, it was thought fit to accept Biggs and Gilby's offer. 3 pp. Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 96–98.] |
Oct. 26.
Pettapoli. |
333. T. C. (Thomas Colley ?) to (John Norris, Agent at Masulipatam). "Worshipful and loving friend, my prayers for your prosperity attend you, &c." Accept of this as a thankful remembrance for your love in sending me to this place unto so honest a man as Mr. Cartwright, and hopes so to behave as to give their masters content, therefore prays license to abide in this place. Necessity not pleasure, brought him to India, where he has passed some years and got nothing, but lost the time which now he is come to regain, and to employ his best care first in his master's service, and also to get something towards his own maintenance. Is left now to the world an orphan, with few friends at home and Norris, as chief of this coast, may do him not only the office of a countryman, but a father to countenance him in his honest employment. The good news of the Europe investment, &c. has confirmed his desires for Pattapoli; should he be sent to Armagon, Bantam, or other places, should want that furtherance he hopes to find among his good friends here. Endorsed, "Particular letter to the Wor11 Jno. Norris, Agent. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1462.] |
| Oct. 31. |
334. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Mr. Governor and Committees intreated to attend the Lord Keeper on Friday with their answer to John Fowke's petition. Demand of Mrs. Locksmith of 225l. for two year's divisions, which she pretended had been without her warrant paid to Sir Edward Creswell, answered she should have questioned the business in Sir Edward's lifetime; that she may as well demand the divisions since paid to Mr. Deards and others for her use; that Sir Edward was known to be trusted by her, and she must therefore expect satisfaction from his executors, if he has not paid it; but Mrs. Locksmith seemed to be unsatisfied with this answer, and gave notice of her purpose to commence her suit at law against the Company. Motion of Mr. Prior, of the Assurance Office, to be recompensed for the policy he made for the Company upon the assuring of the 60,000l. taken up at interest and sent out on the second Persia voyage; the Court remembered he had refused 10l. and intreated Ald. Garway to speak with him at the Exchange and give him fitting satisfaction. Stephen Havey and Thomas Freeman's securities accepted for 50 bags pepper. Acton's bill for law charges to be paid. Securities also allowed for cloves, and the Court refused to allow 15l. deducted by Mr. Rich for clooffe on saltpetre, he relinquished his late subscription for 5 hhds. of cloves. Resolved, in expectation of advancing the price, to keep the London's pepper till after Christmas, unless an offer be made this
afternoon of 17d. per lb., and the whole parcel be underwrit by Saturday come sennight. Resolved, on petition of Francis Gilbert, that the making up and tilletting of their cloth be done only by Mr. Hughes, but that Gilbert may have the greater quantity of white cloth to dress. Two bills of exchange amounting to 1,600l. from the tin farmers accepted towards payment of Mr. Corretyne's debt, on Job. Harbie's promise; o make the same good. Order to pay W. Moreton, who has taken out letters of administration of the estate of Capt. Moreton, 400l., the remainder, vi.;., 500l., to be reserved. Relation of Swanley and Stevens that they had searched in the river for a small ship for Jambi, and presented the inventory of one, but the Court thought the price too high and the ship not fit, and concluded if one could not be found in the river to send Swanley to Dunkirk where it was supposed choice might be had, meantime Mr. Kerby to take order for providing beef and pork for a third ship before the frost falls in. |
|
Minutes of a General Court of Sales. Names of purchasers and the prices. No price to be made for the London's pepper until after Christmas, for in respect there was no likelihood of any pepper from Lisbon this year or next, it was very probable the price would rise, besides if there were an accommodation between the Hollanders and the Company, as there was good hope, there was no question but pepper would be sold at a good rate. 5½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 99–104.] |
