|
| Nov. 2. |
335. Richard Hudson to Thomas Colley, Merchant, in Pettapoli. Thanks for his letter of 2nd Oct. There is an account between Singre and himself, but if he has spoken of it to any man, in especial to Mr. Cartwright, he is "a base stinking slave," for he has never demanded it. If to owe money be a sin, God forgive all sinners. Pray tell Singre to send his servant for the remaining goods which were never bought, the money for the rest being some 22 or 30 Ryals, will bring or send as soon as he comes to Masulipatam, and tell him "I will not fly country for his debt." Ananto likewise exclaims far more than is fitting, and has given in a most base account, will send money to clear. Narrayna most dishonestly claims a debt of 35 pag., but owes him none nor will pay him anything. He may have some squabbling with Ananto about old or new money, but his bill imports neither, and is therefore to be understood current money of that place. The Parculla and Allejan were given him by Singre, therefore if he will take anything for them pray pay him, if not, accept them from him or me; and send the other things left there, when he finds convoy to Mr. Sherwood. In Growa Bramen's hands is sufficient money to pay Ananto, let him clear it and send the rest with the account. Mr. Fenn remembers his love, and in that cold climate prefers work before the chimney corner. Here is a health to him and A. W. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1464.] |
Nov. 6.
Armagon. |
336. Capt. Manuell Altham to Thomas Colley, Merchant, in Pettapoli. Has received his of the 19th past, promising such reciprocal love as may stand with his ability or repute. Takes as
well meant his advice to alter his superscriptions to the agent. If he can provide the paintings at Pettapoli without trouble will be glad; if not, it is not greatly material; hopes Mr. Cartwright will not forget him with the like. Endorsed, "From Capt Altham, rec. the 12th Nov. . . . r 1632." ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1463.] |
| Nov. 7–9. |
337. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Mr. Woodall to receive 100l. on account of provisions for the Surgeons' chests for the Discovery and Reformation appointed to be sent this year for Surat. Report of Mr. Governor that the Lord Keeper satisfied with the Company's answer to Fowkes' petition had given Fowkes further directions for his performance of the decree against him. Letters of administration presented by Capt. Hall, taken out by himself and other creditors of John Vian, desiring his estate in the Company's hands may be paid towards the satisfaction of his creditors; committees intreated to examine the business in respect of some partnernship between him, the executrix of Capt. Bickley and George Pettus deceased. Swanley and Stevens ordered to repair to Dunkirk where it was reported they may have choice of a ship at an easier rate than here; and Ald. Fenn intreated to speak with his son-in-law, Sheriff Perry, to give them letters of credit to friends at Dunkirk to supply them with moneys, said ship to be between 200 and 300 tons. Moiety of freight on pepper and cubibs remitted to John Shilling, Mate in the Palsgrave, the Court understanding he was a hopeful young man, and fit to do them further service. Nicholas Bix who came home in the London to be paid his wages. Freight remitted to Thomas Reignolds, Purser of the London, on 600 lb. out of 1,600 lb. of pepper, also to Thos. Fenn, Purser of the Palsgrave, on his cubibs, ginger, mace, and nutmegs, on paying freight on 300 lb. benjamin. Petition of Benjamin Joyselyn to be remitted freight on 84 pieces calicoes sent from Capt. Altham to divers friends, to be viewed. Suit of John Freelove for the goods and moneys of his son Benjamin, who died in the Palsgrave; but the Court remembered he went a passenger, and was to pay 20s. per month for his diet, and therefore ordered the account to be cast up. Robert Mullins appointed to overlook the refining of saltpetre at Crosby House, and Edward Collins to receive 100l. and 5 tons of saltpetre to keep the Company's powder mills on work. |
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Nov. 9. Letter read from Sir John Watts, desiring that 120l. due to Capt. Hall by Capt. Moreton be paid out of Moreton's estate, Sir John being surety for same; answered that they could not pay it without the executors' consent, but promised their assistance. Report of Stevens and Swanley that the repairing and sheathing of Mr. Conne's ship will cost 600l., besides the prime cost of 600l. and ordnance, &c.; but the Court did not think her a fitting ship, and confirmed their order for Swanley and Stevens to go to Dunkirk and buy a ship for the river of Jambi. Ordered, in addition to former order, that half of Thomas Reignold's freight be remitted. Offer of Mr. Morewood to buy 100 barrels of powder to transport; the price set at 4l. per barrel as before. Half freight remitted on
93 pieces percallas sent home as tokens by Capt. Altham. 5 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 104–109.] |
Nov. 10.
Masulipatam. |
338. Richard Fitche to Thomas Colley. Sends, as he desires, some necessaries, which include books, pewter basin and cup, a pistol, picture, and his "kreas," hearing he lives in a troublesome place with a troublesome nation or perverse or both. Is obliged for the tops for caps. Has put his other clothes into his chest, save his bottles, tobacco pipes, and shoes, which will be safe in the godown. Has also sent the expense at Armagon. His knives are part sold, but has not received any money for them. Hopes he will receive Gulkinda stuffs by the next. Endorsed, "Rec. 13th of November 1632." 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1465.] |
| Nov. 14. |
339. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Ordered, upon mature consideration, in regard it was conceived that the Dutch will question the sale of a ship at Dunkirk and take her from the Company, as they have done from one in Norway bought by an Englishman at Dunkirk, that letters be sent express to Dunkirk requiring Stevens and Swanley to desist from buying any ship there, and if they have bought one to endeavour to put her off, though with some loss, and hasten their return; which was done and sent by conveyance of Sheriff Perry to Dunkirk and another by way of Calais. Relation of the demands of John Fowke to have a copy not only of the oath administered to every free brother, but taken by Mr. Governor and other officers; of his intention to petition the General Court to be relieved against the decree in Chancery for the bargain of saltpetre sold to him and Daniel Boneale; of his intention never to give over complaining to the King and elsewhere until he be freed from that decree and have his adventure cleared; and how he scandalized Mr. Styles to all men he spoke with; but the Court resolved to expect performance of the decree and to take no notice of his intended courses. Acton's bill for law charges to be paid. Debate whether to continue General Quarter Courts deferred. Mr. Governor propounded the consideration of next year's business, both as to the number of ships, money, and merchandise to be sent to the Indies and Persia, having as yet only resolved upon sending the Discovery and Reformation for the northward, and a small ship for the river of Jambi, but a former motion for sending a third ship for Bantam is again revived, and desired the Court to argue this particular amongst themselves, his own opinion being by no means to exceed the 100,000l. allowed by their patent; hereupon a Committee took notice of the prejudice they had received by sending more shipping into the Indies than they had stock to relade home, and delivered his opinion that it were more fit to send an increase of stock than more shipping. But another was of opinion that the stock sent out according to the investments in the several factories is sufficient to relade home 400 tons of cloves and 30,000 bags of pepper, with what is already returned, so there would be rather a want of shipping than of stock, and therefore insisted upon sending a ship for Bantam, also for carrying victuals, provisions, and moneys to relieve their other ships and pay custom
and charges. After large dispute, resolved that Ellam make a collection of the moneys and goods allotted to the several factories, in particular to Macassar, Persia, Surat, and Bantam, with a valuation of their proceeds; and Messrs. Mun and Bownest, who had already taken great pains and fully informed themselves out of the Company's letters and books of accounts of the truth of this business, were intreated to set down in writing against next Court their reasons for their particular opinions, when the Court will resolve what they find best for the good and advantage of the Company. The provision of 250 oxen for the two ships and pinnace to be enlarged to 300 oxen for relief of other ships. Gratuity of 20l. to Mr. Hooker, Sec. to the Master of the Ordnance, who had done the Company many good offices, but had refused 10l., he being a gentleman whose favour they shall have occasion every year to make use of. 4 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 109–112.] |
Nov. 16.
Armagon. |
340. Capt. Manuel Altham to Thomas Colley. Has received his, intimating the many mischances happened in those parts by a hurricane. Hopes the ship Pearl has not tasted thereof, or has borne the brunt of it well. Some things sent him by Mr. Cartwright, arrived with great danger, takes most kindly his taking so great care of them. Endorsed, "Received the 22nd 9ber 1632." ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1466.] |
| Nov. 16. |
341. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. On the report of Mr. Acton that Mr. Fowkes had not attended the Court as the Lord Keeper directed, ordered that if he come not before their rising he be warned to appear on Wednesday next, to show cause why he refuses to perform the Lord Keeper's decree, that the Company may proceed against him according to the usual course of Chancery for his commitment. Report of Mr. Governor that Mr. Burlamachi had assured him a ship may safely be bought at Dunkirk and brought into the river without any danger of the Dutch so as she comes not laden with victuals and munition; whereupon ordered that a letter be forthwith sent to Swanley and Stevens at Dunkirk to go on with all expedition in the buying of a ship according to their first commission, notwithstanding their late contradiction. The account of Thomas Aldworth deceased to be examined and perfected by Mr. Sambrooke. Order concerning the payment of Capt. Weddell's adventure of 400l. in the third joint, for which he left a letter of attorney to Mr. Lovett, the half to be made good out of his wages if he shall live so long and so much shall grow due to him. Wednesday come fortnight appointed to take into consideration the requests of suitors to be entertained Factors, Pursers, &c. in this year's fleet. Resolved to continue the General Quarter Courts until the General Court, by whose direction they were erected, annul them, the beadle to warn the adventurers accordingly for Friday next. Swanley and Southerne appointed to oversee the stowing the Company's goods in the Discovery and Reformation, that there be no stowage lost, nor other goods laden than what are truly the Company's. The Auditors to be remembered to hasten the perfecting
of the accounts of the first and second voyages. On report of Mr. Treasurer that divers, though often solicited, are behind in their payments for bills due for goods bought in Feb. and August last, ordered that Sambrooke present a list on Wednesday, so the Court may think of a course to hasten the bringing in of their moneys, meantime the beadle to be sent to give them notice, that their names may not be divulged to their disreputations. Report of Ellam that Sir Wm. Acton, Mr. Davies, and Mr. Awbrey refused to sign bills for silk bought, on pretence that allowance of tare is denied; Committees intreated to view said defective bales, and allow tare if there be cause; and for Sir Wm. Acton it was resolved to intreat his presence and settle the business if they can, or otherwise compel him by law to give satisfaction; and ordered by erection of hands that whosoever hereafter should carry any bale of silk or other goods to their own houses before being viewed by those appointed by the Company, and allowance of tare given, shall be utterly deprived of the benefit of tare. Question proposed at last Court whether the Company had more shipping in the Indies than stock, or more stock than shipping, resumed and disputed by Mr. Mun and Mr. Bownest, who differed in opinion; they were intreated to set down in writing their reasons, so the Court may have their judgments directed whether to send a ship for Bantam or not. Hereupon Mr. Mun produced a remonstrance wherein he set down the number of the ships belonging to the Joint Stock, viz., the Pearl, Jewel, Charles, Jonas, Dolphin, Hart, and Swallow, with their tonnage and stock; also the ships belonging to the first and second voyages, viz., the James, William, Blessing, Star, Mary, Exchange, Speedwell, and Hopewell, with their tonnage and stock; and concludes that there is a want of moneys and stock to relade home said ships from the places where the stock is laid, as at Macassar for cloves, Persia for silk, Surat for cloth, and Bantam for pepper, of 50,000l. and more for the Joint Stock, and 30,000l. and upwards for the first and second voyages, and therefore he was of opinion it was not safe to send more shipping, but rather to enlarge their stock. To this Mr. Bownest made objections and insisted still that the Company had more goods than shipping to bring them home, and alleged that the Pearl, Jewel, Swallow, and Swan are not to return for Europe, but to remain in the country and trade from port to port; which was answered by Mr. Mun that allowing that, there will be shipping sufficient, but a want of stock to relade to the amount aforesaid. After divers arguments and disputes, which much satisfied the judgment of the Court, the question was left undecided, and after the question of sending a ship to Bantam had been largely disputed, it was ordered that a third ship be sent there, in regard of the want of provisions which is feared amongst their ships both there and at Surat, and advised that the ship propounded by Mr. Spurstowe be viewed and the price known; Mr. Mun advised that the ship be sent directly for Bantam in company with the Surat fleet to Mohilla, where, meeting Capt. Weddell's fleet, she may refresh those ships and from thence go to Surat to do the like to the ships there, and then,
taking in her lading of cloth, go directly for Bantam; for if she should go hence immediately for Bantam she might peradventure miss the ships, and so frustrate the Company's intentions. 6½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 113–119.] |
| Nov. 21. |
342. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Renewed request of Sir John Watts for payment of 100l. to Capt. Hall out of Capt. Moreton's estate, answered as before; that in regard there was an executor the Company could not pay it, but would assist what they could. Motion of Sir Wm. Acton for further allowance for tangle and defective silk, referred to Committees to give such further tare as they in conscience should deem fitting. Mr. Fowkes desired a copy of the Company's answer to his petition, pretending the Lord Keeper was misinformed, and wondering the Company should send any to inform a judge privately; he alleged that the decree in Chancery was grounded upon the sandy foundation of one interested man's corrupt testimony; the Court still observing his unlimited demand and his turnings and windings upon every question answered, if he would set down in writing the particulars of his demand they would give further answer. Account of Tho. Aldworth deceased, presented by Sambrooke, referred to the Committees of the Counting House to examine. Dispute again renewed concerning the sending of another ship with victuals and provisions to supply the ships abroad; it was moved in regard of the great famine in Surat, the long being out of the Great James, and that the Factors from the southwards write for victuals and stores, that one victualler go to the northwards and another directly for Jambi; but because of a great difference between Mr. Mun and Mr. Bownest, and that the former had already set down in writing the grounds of his opinion, it was moved and consented to by Mr. Bownest to present his collections on Wednesday next, and Committees were intreated to join with him to examine the Company's estate abroad. 3 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 119–122.] |
Nov. 22.
Armagon. |
343. Capt. Manuel Altham to Thomas Colley. Accepts the advice of so good a friend as himself kindly. The difference between their two friends would admit of no reconciliation, until he in a manner forced them by sending for Mr. Milward's letter back which he denied to put up in the Company's, but he secretly gave it to the Pattamar. Knows well the cause of their falling out was small, and haply when they were merry with a cup of barley, otherwise knows them both to be so discreet as not to fall into quarrels but hereafter thinks they will continue as now they are very familiar friends. Understands paintings are scarce, if therefore he cannot procure any, will still think he has done his best. ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1467.] |
| Nov. 23. |
344. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Relation of Swanley and Steevens that they had repaired to Dunkirk for buying a ship, but only saw two, and both so dear that they went to Nieuport and so to Ostend, where they bad a sight of three belonging to the King of Spain, lately taken from the Hollanders, and offered 400l. for one but there came a commandment that the ship was not to be sold
and returning to Dunkirk they met the Company's letters countermanding their commission, so came home. They were directed to view the Globe, now riding in the river, and reported her a good and strong-built ship, but drawing too much water, whereupon the Court wished them to make further search. Ordered that copies of some of the Company's printed orders desired by Mr. Fowkes be delivered to him. List presented by Sambrooke of such as are behind in their first and second payments to the Third Joint Stock, and for goods bought, was publicly read, and ordered that tickets be left at the houses of the parties desiring them to pay in their moneys before Christmas day next, or to repair to the Court and show cause of their refusal, and meantime the accountants to examine each man's accounts contained in said list, and report what they have underwritten in former voyages and what is thereupon remaining in the Company's hands. Thomas Chewe entertained prime Factor for Surat for five years, at 100l. for the first year and 200l. per annum for so long after as he should remain in their service, with a gratification of 40l. to set him to sea. Upon consideration of the distressed state of Edward Patten, who hath long been imprisoned in the Poultry Compter at the suit of his surety for imprest money, ordered that Askew, their officer, release him. Gratuity of 20 nobles to Cornelius Carone for going expressly to Dunkirk with the Company's letters for revocation of Swanley and Steeven's commission. On notice that Mr. Acton had procured an order for the commitment of Mr. Fowkes for contempt in not performing the decree against him in Chancery concerning the saltpetre bought by him and Mr. Boneale, resolved that the execution be suspended, in regard he purposed to offer something in favour of himself at the General Court in the afternoon. Letter read from George Sill, making known that he was under arrest at the suit of Mr. Wright, Merchant, and praying payment of the moneys raised by the sale of the goods sent to him and his aged mother from his brother Henry Sill; the Court pitying his estate, required that Henry Sill's account be examined, and the order searched out concerning the debt claimed by John Elsmore. |
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Minutes of a General Quarter Court. Statement of Mr. Governor that although the Court of Committees holds not fit to dissolve these Quarter Courts without the consent of the Generality, who erected them, yet they are of opinion that these Courts are of little use, in regard that whensover any good occasion is offered a General Court is instantly appointed, nevertheless it is left to the wisdom of this Court either to continue or dissolve them, hereupon one of the Generality made answer that if the Quarter Courts do no good yet they do no harm, and proposed to have them continued, which the Court without further dispute left to further consideration. Then Mr. Governor declared that they had nothing more to impart than what had been made known at the last General Court upon the arrival of the London, and saw no cause to detain them any longer. The Court remained silent for a time when John Fowke desired to be permitted to speak and presented a paper to the Governor, which he prayed might be read, intimating how much he
had suffered in the cause decreed against him in Chancery, by the detention of his adventure and by other strange and violent courses prosecuted against him by the malice and unjust testimony of some ill affected to him which he doubted not in due time to manifest. Observations of Mr. Governor; after much dispute the Court was of opinion neither to read his paper nor to permit him to enlarge himself any further upon this discourse, but advised him to submit to the decree and bring in the money due to the Company and then sue for favour, otherwise the law was open for him, to which the Company would in all obedience submit themselves. But this counsel he seemed not to affect, so the Court left him to his own way, nevertheless that he might see they do not prosecute him so violently as he pretended, Mr. Governor commanded the order for his commitment to be read, which the Court of Committees had caused to be suspended that he might not be debarred from his appearance at this meeting which they might have prevented, also directed their solicitor to use the same proceedings to Mr. Boneale, it being not the Company's intention to detain his person in prison, but only to use all lawful and honest means to recover their true debt, and whether from himself or from Mr. Boneale is all one to them. Proposition that at these Quarter Courts there might be sale made of adventures as was accustomed in Sir Thomas Smythe's time, which would be a means to quicken the action and discover what the adventures were worth. This motion was well entertained, and the first voyage was valued at 50l. per cent., the second at 40l., and the third at 30l. per cent., one of the Generalty offered to sell 200l. in the first Persian voyage at 50l. per cent., and desired the candle might be set up, but no man bidding, another offered 200l. in the same voyage at 40l. per cent., and it was sold by the candle to Mr. Armitage at 41l. per cent., 200l. more in the second Persian voyage was also offered at 35l. per cent., and 200l. at 30l. per cent., but no offer was made. 7 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 122–128.] |
Nov. 24.
Masulipatam. |
345. Thomas Woodson to Thomas Colley. They arrived here in safety yesterday, the time did not afford their ship getting to their port in Bengala. Have returned with the discovery only of some places which may yield benefit to our employers. Have buried in this voyage Mr. Morris, the Master's brother, and two men were drowned going over the bar of Manerapatam. Prays him remember his love to Mr. Cartwright, and hopes that shortly they will all drink a loving health together. Wrote before his going for two or three quilts; if they may be had, will requite the favour. The judge says his vermilion and quicksilver are unsold, and expects to hear what to do with him. Annexed, |
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Blank copy of a passport from the agent for the East India Company, for a vessel appertaining to Juliana, to negotiate from the Port of——hither, &c., free from any hindrance from the Company's Commanders, merchants, &c., who are rather to intreat them as friends provided they transport neither moneys, goods, jewels, letters, &c. appertaining to our enemies the Portugals. Endorsed, "Received the 27th November
1632, & likewise a copy of a passport for Chinese.(?)" ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1468.] |
| Nov. 26. |
346. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Understanding that Mr. Batty had a commission from the owners of the ship Globe to sell her for 1,200l.; on the report of Stevens and Swanley that she was a strong and well built ship 1,100l. was offered, but refused; hereupon dispute arose whether there were occasion to send a ship for Jambi, Capt. Allnutt alleging at his being at Bantam the Dove and Simon and Jude were designed for that occasion; resolution deferred. Statement of Mr. Governor that himself and other Committees were to attend the Lords this afternoon according to an order from the Council of 23rd inst., wherein the Company was commanded to bring in their Patent for making gunpowder to be surrendered, and desired to know what answer to return. After serious debate, Mr. Governor and the rest were desired to attend the Lords and insist that the Patent being granted to the Company, the Governor and Committees had no power to surrender the same without the Company's order, and likewise to urge the good service the Company did in bringing in foreign saltpetre, and that the Lords accounted it a service worthy the cherishing, whereupon his Majesty granted the Company their Patent, which they conceive they ought to enjoy, especially when others who have not deserved the like favour are suffered to set up new powder mills, to the Company's great discouragement, who, relying on the validity of their Patent, had been at great charge in erecting their mills, and so to leave it to their Lordship's further consideration, their Patent being still with the Attorney-General. 2 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 129, 130.] |
Nov. 27.
Aboard the Charles. |
347. Jno. Banggam to President Joseph Hopkinson "at Marreen Swally, or elsewhere." "The continual consideration of our unfortunate and most disconsolate voyage hath very much perplexed me, the relation whereof is as intricate and tedious as discontentive to myself, and therefore desirously hoping to see you in person I refer the same to a more convenient opportunity." Anchored this afternoon between Surat Bar and the outward road of Swally, viz., the Great James, Mary, Charles, Jonas, Dolphin, Hart, Exchange, Swallow, and pinnace Intelligence. The Charles, her fleet, and Intelligence came to them at Johanna, met the Mary and Exchange at Gombroon, whence they sailed 35 days since, having been much hindered by calms and cross winds, which it seems reigns in these seas at this time of year. Being accidentally aboard the Charles as they passed Surat Bar, and seeing the junk Shahee at anchor, went aboard her to inquire of the President's health, &c., and thought it requisite to salute him thus briefly; in the interim Capt. Weddell dispeeded a letter of his own per his barge to Swally Marreen, whence he hourly expects the President aboard. Mr. Skibbowe died at St. Lawrence, and divers of their friends and countrymen since coming from Gombroon, as Messrs. Sill and Ross, with sundry officers. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1469.] |
| Nov. 28. |
348. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Representation of Mr. Smethwike that what he formerly had observed to be undone was now effected, and all the Courts entered even until this present; but the Company might be ill dealt with by revealing their secrets even to the Dutch, for though there be three sworn men belonging to the Secretary's Office there is a fourth servant to Mr. Sherburne that hath sight of the Company's books, who is neither sworn nor officer to the Company, and may if he please give copies of the orders of Court, though he had heard no evil of the young man. Upon which it was observed how dangerous it is that the Counting House and Secretary's office should be open to any of the Company to revel into their accounts, letters, and orders, and it was the opinion of the Court they may be shut, that no freeman but those that have the government of the Company be permitted to see and peruse them, though Mr. Smethwike seemed to object that the ground of this motion differed much from his proposition, because every free brother takes an oath not to bewray the Company's secrets. Motion of Mr. Smethwike to see a report which he hears the Company are to make concerning some business wherein himself had formerly been interested, denied. Committees named to accompany Mr. Governor to the Council Board in the afternoon concerning their Patent for making gunpowder, and authorised to insist on the Court's resolution of last Court. The Governor stated the business of this Court to be, whether to send a ship with provisions directly for Bantam fit for the river of Jambi, and another with the Surat fleet with victuals, or whether the ship for Bantam should go first for Surat, which had begotten differences in opinion whether the stock abroad were sufficient or too much to lade home the ships in the Indies, and two Committees who differed were intreated to present their collections and reasons. Whereupon Mr. Bownest delivered for the consideration of the Court a general computation of all the Company's estate and shipping abroad without particular distinction of the stock belonging to the several voyages, which is no fantasy of his own, but deduced out of the Company's books, and the Joint Stock, together with a computation of the benefit made by the stock at the several places whither designed, and the investment in goods for Europe, the debt at Surat, the charges of factories, shipping, customs, &c., and the valuation of returnable ships, and concluded therefrom that there was a want of 2,200 tons of shipping to return the stock abroad. Mr. Mun then presented his collections and opinion, not grounding upon the general stock of the Indies, but upon the Third Joint Stock, whether that hath sufficient stock to lade home the ships, and with equal confidence affirmed that there was a want of stock to return the above said ships, and insisted upon the number and tonnage of the ships belonging to said Third Stock, secondly, the stock sent out to relade the ships, thirdly, the disposure of said stock to make said returns; and, fourthly, the increase and profit of said stock, and concluded there would be a want of stock to bring home said ships containing 2,750 tons, the debt of 50,000l. at Surat
being first paid. The Court observing that they had raised their buildings upon different foundations, and that they varied in divers particulars, though they agreed in the price of pepper, yet one main difference was that one allowed 1,500 lbs. of pepper to the ton, and the other but 1,200 lbs., and having argued both collections, approved of both their pains, that they had proceeded judicially and merchantlike, and that their observations which seemed so contradictory might with some small alterations be reconciled, and to that purpose overture was made that they two should meet and agree upon the stock and tonnage, or that a Committee, assisted by the Auditors, be joined with them, or that the Court would settle how much pepper was to be reckoned for a ton, and the gains and price of goods, &c., but the day being far spent, the business was left to further consideration. 3 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 131–134.] |
| Nov. |
349. Translation of the Phirmaund for Metchlepatam, called the Golden Phirmaund. "A Coule Phirmaund, i.e., a Grant with a Command. Sultan Obdula Cuttop Shaw King. A Coule Phirmaund never to be altered.' Of my great love to Capt. Joyce and all the English. I do freely give this, that under the shadow of me, the King, they shall sit down at rest and in safety. Forasmuch as the English have declared that they will serve the King, and that in Metchlepatam, Nesampatam, Izapatam, Binvlapatam, and all other ports, and seaport towns, they will bring horses from Persia and other places, and all other goods of the best sort; it is agreed that the English shall be free from the Bancksall customs and all other duties paid by other merchants; that neither the Governor nor any of the King's servants shall molest them in selling their goods. That they take not Jucan or other duties of them or of any of their people; that they shall send a list of their horses, goods, or good things, that the King may choose what likes him, which shall be delivered to such as the King shall appoint, paying the full market price, and what he shall have no occasion for, they may sell to whom they please; and that for what presents shall be sent to the King, they must write and send directly to him, and not to any other Governor; that if any other people rise up against his Governors the English must help him; that they must not own any stranger's goods, which, if they do, he will take Juncan from them as from others. That whereas the English used to pay 500 or 600 pag. yearly, the King deducts out of the Governor's rent 800 pag. old yearly, and if he shall pretend the custom of English goods amounts to more they shall give account to the King, but the Governor must not molest them. "You must remain here and do your business. You must rest satisfied and be confident it shall be according to this Parliament. You must rejoice in the King's prosperity. Granted Nov. 1632." 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1471.] |
| Nov. 30. |
350. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Relation of Mr. Governor that according to order he and other Committees attended the Lords of the Council on Wednesday last and found a full assembly of 17 Lords and others of the Council, and being demanded by the Lord
Privy Seal whether they had brought their Patent for the making of gunpowder, Mr. Governor answered that it had long since been delivered to the Attorney-General, according to a former order of the Board, and as touching the surrender, Mr. Governor declared, as he had heretofore done to the Lord Treasurer, that the Patent being granted to the whole Company, it was conceived that without their consent the Governor and Committees could not surrender it, without running the danger of being questioned by the Generality, and therefore Mr. Governor propounded that if it be his Majesty's pleasure to call in their Patent it may be done legally, by scire facias, to which they would show themselves but weak opponents, or that they may have leave to call a General Court and receive their allowance and approbation, which they doubted not to effect, but without one of these two ways they cannot give consent to the surrender of their Patent, protesting they will be ready to conform themselves in all obedience to their Lordships' command so far as they may do it with safety and preservation of their oaths. Some of the Lords were of opinion these propositions were very reasonable, but one seemed not satisfied, but conceived that both propositions were unfit to be granted, in regard the first would spin out time, which his Majesty's service would not admit, and the other might prove doubtful if put to the Generality, and therefore he proposed that the Patent be forthwith suspended; Mr. Sec. Coke observed that the answer given by Mr. Governor is far different from that which he expected, my Lord Treasurer having told him Mr. Governor promised his Lordship, at Roehampton, to surrender the Patent, and thereupon it was appointed to be done at the Board that their Lordships might see the Company's obedience in a matter without which his Majesty should not be able to make good his late contract with Mr. Evelyn. Hereupon it was moved that the Lord Treasurer be sent to and intreated to attend, when Mr. Governor and the Committees were desired to withdraw, and, "after a small distance of time," being called in again, the Lord Treasurer demanded whether Mr. Governor had not promised him at his house, at Roehampton, to surrender the Patent, to which Mr. Governor offering to make reply, his Lordship would not admit him to proceed in his discourse, but contracted him to this question, his Lordship often reiterated, whether he had not promised to surrender the Patent, and whether he would now do it or not, uttering also these words, that when the Company had any suit to his Majesty or the State they would then come in all humility and promise anything, but when his Majesty and the State desired anything of the Company, then they fell to expostulations and to make conditions, and that in a business which is of little or no loss to the Company, but to his Majesty may be exceedingly prejudicial, and therefore, in short, he charged and commanded them, for he was resolved his Majesty should have the sole making and selling of powder, to surrender the Patent without either scire facias or calling a General Court, which course his Lordship now plainly told Mr. Governor he should not take. Whereupon Mr. Governor humbly desired their Lordships would not misinterpret their meaning in coming to the Board,
which was not to oppose what is desired, but only to offer the way of doing it for their own safety, but they humbly submitted themselves to their Lordships' directions, the Patent being with Mr. Attorney-General, from whom their Lordships may command it; only they desire this one request, that they might have an order from the Board commanding them to bring in the said Patent, the better to justify this act if questioned by the Generality, as also that they might work out the saltpetre now in working; which their Lordships thought reasonable and ordered accordingly, promising likewise that they should be served with good powder at a reasonable rate, and that their saltpetre should be taken at an indifferent price or permission given to transport it. It was further intimated, by a Committee, that though they had no great cause to be fond of their Patent, yet seeing it was granted under the Great Seal at a time when it was thought the Company well deserved the same, and the bringing in of foreign saltpetre was considered to be a good service for the State, it could not but much discourage the Company that their Patent should now be called in and others suffered to set up mills. To this was answered, by one of the Lords, that it was but a horse mill, which is not yet licensed, and if suffered will be able to make but a handful of powder in comparison, but Mr. Governor replied that it will make as much as the Company's mills, and some had been already with the Company to buy saltpetre for that work. Finally, seeing the strong resolution of the Board, having submitted themselves in manner as before declared, moved their Lordships for the release of Collins and other the poor workmen who, by warrant from the Board, are in the messengers' custody, which was commanded. The Lords' order for surrendering the Patent, as drawn up by the Clerk of the Council, presented by the Secretary, but in lieu of the word enjoined he was ordered to do his best to have inserted the words charge and command, these being the very words used by the Lord Treasurer. Gratuity of 5l. to the five poor powder makers brought up by the messenger to the Council Table, to defray their charges here and carry them home to the mills. The questions concerning stock and shipping abroad in the Indies again resumed. Mr. Mun represented that at last meeting he had only insisted upon the stock and shipping of the Third Joint Stock, but in regard Mr. Bownest made his collection upon the general estate of the Company, and had included the stock and ships belonging to the three voyages and Third Joint Stock, therefore Mr. Mun came now prepared to present a general computation of all the Company's stock and shipping, promising that he intends not to meddle with the first voyage, but only to allow 15 tons upon the account of the second voyage to bring home the remains of the first, nor to compute any remains of the second, because the Factors advise there is none, though Mr. Bownest computes a rest of 8,000l., nor will he include the Swan and her cargo, newly sent out this year, concluding that there was in all 15 ships, the tonnage amounting to 6,350 tons, Mr. Bownest making but 12 ships of 5,970 tons, leaving three to be worn out in the country. Mr. Mun then computed the stock sent out in money and goods, and the gains and investments
in each particular factory, how many tons of shipping may be laden home from each port, and having handled this business with relation to each particular factory, he concluded there was an overplus of 309 tons of shipping, besides the difference of 500 tons alleged by Mr. Bownest to be left in the country for prosecution of the inland trade. Whereas Mr. Mun could observe no cause for any more to remain in the Indies than two small ships for the river of Jambi and Macassar, Mr. Bownest was then desired to recapitulate his remonstrance exhibited at the last meeting, whereby he concluded there was a want of ships to bring home the stock abroad, allowing 25,000l. for charges in the Indies, to be raised by gains of trade between Surat and Persia and customs of Gombroon, and leaving 53,000l. at Surat, more than will be sufficient to pay their debt there. The Court observed a great difference in divers particulars, as, viz., a remainder of 8,000l., computed by the one to belong to the Second Stock, not yet returned, and by the other, who conceived there was none wholly left out; a second, that 39,000 Rs. were reckoned by the one to be part of the stock abroad, and by the other not mentioned, because not yet sent out; a third particular, that the quantity of pepper to be had at Bantam and Jambi was estimated by the one to be 3,000 tons at 15 cwt. to a ton, whereas the other makes 5,000 tons at 12 cwt. to a ton; and a fourth, that there were 500 tons of shipping to be worn out in the country saith one, to be returned saith the other. Out of all which the Court took notice that there was, in the opinion of the one, 400 tons shipping wanting stock to lade home, and, by the judgment of the other, 800 tons of shipping will be wanting to bring home the stock now abroad. After well weighing the great mortality and famine in the Indies, the long being out of some of the greatest ships, which might be in want, and the supply of victuals and stores required by advices from Bantam, the Court was of opinion rather to have a ship or two more than needful in the Indies than that the ships abroad should want supplies, and concluded, after some dispute, to send the Palsgrave, Discovery, and the pinnace now to be bought, to the northwards, and the Reformation to the southwards, to be there in July to meet ships for Europe or from Surat. 6½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 134–140.] |
