|
| Jan. 2. |
371. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Mr. Acton's bill to be paid. Proposition of Mr. Governor to take into consideration the speedy dispatch of their ships that if possible they may be in the Downs by the fine of February; Mr. Mun's reasons why the Reformation should go in company with the Palsgrave and Discovery for the northwards and the pinnace for Bantam, being largely argued it was in fine by erection of hands resolved to send the pinnace for Bantam and the Reformation for Surat which is a more warlike ship and will add much to the strength of the Palsgrave and Discovery in case they shall meet with the Portugals, who no question will lie in wait for them. Relation of Mr. Deputy that attended by their Secretary Sherburne, he had presented according to directions such New Year's gifts as the Court appointed to the Lords and others, who kindly received them and returned them thanks with promise to do the Company all good offices in their power. Ordered that the Lord Chamberlain and Lord Carlisle who had been omitted, be presented with two satin quilts apiece, and Sir Thomas Edmondes with one. Friday next come sennight appointed for the election of Commanders for their ships, and a note ordered to be set up in the hall to give notice thereof to such as intend to be suitors. 2½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 159–161.] |
Jan. 4.
Surat. |
372. The President and Council at Surat to (the East India Company) [abstracted letter]. The Pearl arrived not at Armagon till 15th Aug., so belated (as is thought) by seeking purchases by the way. Divers letters sent the Company by Capt. Quaile. A lame excuse
for their negligent buying of calicoes, and that calicoes are double the price they were wont to be. Indigo cirques at 23 and 25 rup., and none better cheap to be expected for two or three years. Have bought the greater quantity of Agra indigo to send by the James, which they hope to dispatch by midst of Jan. with 100 bales calicoes of old stores, but could not have them bleached, &c. before: 1,480 bales Agra indigo; 100 bales cotton yarn; pepper and cloves to be brought from Bantam. Ships Charles, Jonas, Hart, Swallow, Dolphin from England, Mary and Exchange from Masulipatam, and Great James and pinnace Intelligence from Bantam, arrived at Surat altogether from Persia 28 Nov.; from 22 Oct. many men died. The goods and moneys consigned for Persia were there discharged, and moreover three bales cloths and four chests Rs., the better to comply with the King. Defects in the silk shall be reformed. The cargaison received from London were all well conditioned so far as they yet find, but the white cloths, which are wholly rotten. The Company's letters of 16th March and 2nd Nov. by way of Masulipatam received. Have made known their complaint of the silk. Scarcity of India commodities will not suffer them to supply Persia therewith. Most of the coarse commodities sent thither last year lie unsold, yet they intend to supply them with 200 bales indigo and some fine goods to help away 280 cloths re-sent them, which were consigned hither but the Governor refuses to buy them "upon pretended coarseness." Spare to send cloths hither: have enough for two or three years. The Dutch offer their assistance to the Duke to win Muscat alone. This Governor delays their despatches to force them to take in freight goods, which much perplexes them. The invoice of the goods sent in the William to Bantam the Company may expect by the James. Of the Factors now sent, Mr. Gifford only is of ability, the rest inexperienced, which want of Factors perplexes them. George Willoughby found fault with. Bantam left destitute of Factors by the removal of so many thence, purpose supplying it with some that are least faulty, and the rest to send home; have not yet heard their controversy. "Thank your private trade for it." Mr. Hoare has written of great gain by commodities from hence and thence reciprocally, which indeed hath formerly been made, but now is not. All Europe commodities in very small esteem here, but hope time will mend it; most of last and this year's cargaisons yet unsold; quicksilver and cloths unsold. One hundred cloths landed; this Governor promised to buy, but doubt his performance; he shows them the King's license to truck with them for indigo against cloths, but defers till their ships' departure for Persia; intend not to meddle therein unless the Dutch proffer to take it, for the King is a bad merchant. Sixty chests of coral yet unsold of the second voyage for its coarseness; that now sent seems by its price to be finer and of better hope. Leave aboard 28 chests of the lowest prices, intending to send them with some lead and a chest of Rs. on the Mary for Masulipatam in her way to Bantam. All the lead in the last fleet is kept aboard, and all that came in the Mary unsold; the Governor will not suffer them to sell it to any but himself.
Disposure of ships; the Swallow for Bantam; the Mary for Persia to take in silk, and returning to take in indigo and other goods in Surat for Bantam, touching at Masulipatam, and thence to lade for London. The Exchange and Intelligence to go to Sumatra for pepper timely to prevent the Dutch, and the latter from thence, 1st June, to meet the Europe fleet with advice to make Persia their first port, the Agent and Factors in Persia having so advised, giving reasons. Of the other ships two shall accompany the Mary to Masulipatam for a freight for Persia, where they are well assured of 12,000 pa., but more expected; the other two shall be ordered for the islands to meet the Europe fleet, and accompany them for Persia. Death of our people in Persia, and in the ships coming thence. Jno. Willoughby sent presently for Persia upon the Dutch to prevent rumours concerning the burning of our two ships. The burning of the Charles and Swallow, with the circumstances. The trial of this wicked accident shall be tomorrow, and the delinquents sent home in irons. Names of the men which perished, and what goods were recovered and lost, shall be sent in the James. Capt. Weddell made Commander of the Jonas and her fleet, with Mr. Moricke, Master under him; and Capt. Swanley Master of the Hart. The Earl of Denbigh has been at Masulipatam and Persia in the Mary, and intends to return in the James. 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1483.] |
| Jan. 4. |
373. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Report of Mr. Acton that according to a custom of the manor of Stepney when any surrender is taken, it must be left in the hands of the foreman of the homage that took the surrender, to be by him presented and registered at the next Court to be holden for said manor, otherwise said foreman doth by such default forfeit his own copyhold, he had delivered the original surrender of Blackwall Yard lately made by Mr. Kirby unto the foreman of the homage, and had taken a copy thereof under the hand of the foreman; the Court well approved of what was done, and directed that special care be used to perform whatever is requisite, because the Lord of the Manor is very strict towards the Company in this business. Motion of Mr. Bownest to order the delivery of Thomas Wheatley's goods in the Company's hands, representing his 10 years' service in the Indies that the goods were not acquired by private trade, but given him by the King of Tallow for a cure by him performed, and that the Court had deferred this business because he could give no account of Henry Short's estate; the Court well remembered that he was so shy in his answers that it gave occasion to suspect confederacy between Mr. Verneworthy and him, and after some debate resolved to suspend the consideration of this particular for one month longer, and in the meantime to write to Short's brother that if he can show no cause to the contrary the Company may clear with Wheatley as desired. On petition of Michael Price, apprentice in the London, desiring the Company to reimburse his poor mother 50s. which he had been chargeable to her since his return by a fit of sickness, or else free him for the remainder of his time, the Court
conceiving a good opinion of the boy's towardliness, entertained him at 12s. per month to go in the Discovery, and bestowed on the poor woman 20s. out of the poor box. 1½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII. 162, 163.] |
Jan. 7.
Swally Road. |
374. Capts. Jo. Weddell, Jas. Slade, Ric. Swanley, Hum. Pym, Jno. Hatch, Ric. Monck, Jo. Jay, Jo. White, and Tho. Turner "all our Sea Commanders" to E. I. Co. [abstract of letter jointly]. Letters sent by Capt. Quaile. The James will be ready for England by 20 Jan. We came from Gombroon 22 Oct., and arrived at Surat 28 Nov., most of our men falling sick. Messrs. Sill and Rosse, Merchants, Mr. Foxe, Mate of the Mary, the Gunner and Surgeon of the Dolphin, all dead. Carpenter, Bamham [? Banggam], and Gombledon (?) Merchants, dead; and Mr. Sherland and the rest of the Persian Factors sick. Messrs. Kirkham and Fall with a small train gone up to Spahan. Most of your people dead at Surat. Joseph Hopkinson, now President, discommended; wholly disabled. Nath. Mountney joined with him in authority. Dearth and scarcity of all things. Indian commodities at double their wonted rates. English and other European commodities much fallen in their prices. Are forced to carry the cloths back for Persia. The Charles and Swallow burnt by accident, with all the circumstances. 7,638 Rs. of 8 saved in the Swallow, and hope to save the remains of her money. The Charles sunk in deep water; she had cloth and lead in her. Some few men burnt, some drowned, some hurt. The disposure of the Exchange and Intelligence for the west coast of Sumatra; the pinnace to go thence to the islands, &c. The Mary to go to Persia with the fleet, and thence to Masulipatam and Bantam. The Jonas, Dolphin, and Hart to return for Surat, if they be not employed about Muscat, and there to take their directions. The Dutch have a brave fleet here, intended the one for Europe, one for Persia, one with two pinnaces along the coast; and all to meet again at Surat to attempt Mozambique, &c., and intercepting of carracks. Have great want of necessaries for ships and men, by reason of many disbursements both to their own ships and the Dutch, whereof the Company shall have account by the James. Our stores being lost, supplies are very necessary. Divers writings from Geo. Willoughby, together with copy of protest against the President and Council in Surat, concerning his remove from his place of agency of Bantam, &c.; with copy of their interrogatories to him and his answers. See ante, Nos. 358, 361. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1456.] |
| Jan. 9. |
375. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. On petition of Walter Ambler for employment aboard the Palsgrave he was appointed land Purser on the pinnace [Consolation] bought at Ipswich, the Court passing by his former offence. Request of [Edmond] Howes, the Chronicler, being now to receive a dividend of 12l. 10s. to add so much more unto it as will make up the sum to 50l., and to adventure it in this Third Joint Stock, to which the Court readily consented. Sheriff Andrews and Mr. Corham allowed to adventure certain suits of tapestry to the Indies on the like terms that others have done for other commodities.
Request of Mr. Ellam for leave to send his son in the fleet now bound to Surat for one year's trial, he paying all charges of his son's passage and stay in the country, not sending him because he was any way addicted to vice, but for the young man's good. The Court observing Mr. Ellam's case not to desire anything to the prejudice of the Company, or to intrude him upon their service, readily granted his request, and gave freely all charges of diet incident to his son's passage. Report of a complaint on the Exchange of a bull slaughtered at Blackwall, and salted amongst the beef prepared for the voyage, which might beget an ill opinion of the voyage; and Webb and Pringle being questioned confessed that at the butcher's importunity a bull stag was killed and salted instead of an ox, but they had taken special note of it to be spent for harbour victuals; and as for the weight their book showed that the greater part of the oxen held out the full weight of 6 cwt. with an overplus, but the hogs generally weighed but ¾ cwt. instead of 1 cwt.; being told of the want of pieces of beef certified out of the Indies, and of the pork found out by the Headborough of Blackwall, they said it must be a mistake for they had never missed any out of the salting-house, but promised to be more careful for the future, and they certified they had provided 17,000 pieces of beef for supply of the ships abroad over and above the proportion for the four ships now bound out. The Court of opinion that the salting of meat for the ship intended for the coast in August might be done better two months hence, because the price will then be less. Complaint of Swanley that those who make cordage for the Company often put in ground tow which much weakens the cordage, Committees intreated to speak with Fletcher and other makers, and order Blackburne, the overseer, not to suffer it. He further reported that he and Stevens had contrived bread-rooms on the lower orlops for bread to be first spent; the Court referred the care thereof to them. Thomas Jones, proposed as a Factor, refused by the balloting box by 14 against 3 for him, he having at his last return given some tart words against the Company about the difference between Lady Dale and him. Renewed suit of the cloth-workers for increase of allowance for dressing cloth; they confessed they had formerly received from 15s. to 24s. per cloth, and the Court conceiving the Committees had done well in settling the rate at 20s. one with another, referred the business again to them. Imprest remitted to the surety of Wm. Browne deceased, who broke his arm in the Company's service and was therefore dismissed from the Dolphin by Capt. Hatch. 3½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 163–166.] |
| Jan. 10. |
376. Consultation held for examination of George Willoughby, &c. adherents concerning their proceeding at the coast of Coromandel against Henry Sill, Christopher Reade, &c.; Reade having delivered in writing, according to the President and Council's demands, the wrongs they suffered. Examination of Gilbert Gardner and Edward Hall, Mates of the Star, concerning the taking of Armagon Fort, they obeyed the Master of the Star; and on Willoughby producing
a letter wherein he was appointed by the Company Agent of Bantam, they agreed with the rest to proclaim his agency on the coast, which was formerly subject to Bantam, but Willoughby never showed the clause of the Company's letter authorising this presidency. All was done through the sole power of Willoughby and Barnes, but they heard of no private trade. Philip Bearden, Purser of the Star, gave not his consent to, but was asleep at the taking of the fort, he gave his consent to Willoughby's proclaiming. Sill was chosen director of the Old Stock's remains by consultation 30th Oct. 1630; Reade delivered to Willoughby list of goods providable at the coast and Surat and vendible at the southwards; and he knew of one bale of private trade belonging to Reade. Then follow the examination of John Barnes, Master of the Star, who thought it his duty to submit the ship to Willoughby as Agent at the southwards. He was ignorant of the President's authority over the coast. Willoughby first arrested Sill and then called a consultation. Upon bad terms given by Mr. Tempest to Willoughby, he was put in irons and laid on the forecastle in the rains, but to his knowledge was always well in the ship. Mem.—Willoughby told Barnes that as long as he was on the coast he was to be chief, and that at his departure it was to be under Surat, but there was no commission authorising President Rastell to be chief in India. Reasons why he knew Sill to be faulty in giving John Carter leave to lie up in the country 20 miles on his own occasions, and suffering the Master of the Falcon to lie ashore a month and not carry away the Star's goods. Reade's replies to these accusations, that a boy was sent from the Falcon to assist Benjamin Owen in buying rice, that John Carter, Pilot of the Falcon, lay up in the country to assist Ralph Cartwright about the Company's affairs; Sill suffered Norber, Master of the Falcon, to lie ashore, because there was then no man of quality there to comfort Sill in his sickness; Sill never denied to lade goods aboard the Falcon for the second general voyage, as a consultation of 26th Dec., at which Hunter was present, will make manifest. Examination of Thomas Grove, Factor on the Star, that he consented to the surprising of the fort and carrying away of Sill to Bantam on the authority of the Company's Agent. Never saw the Company's letter authorising President Rastell to command. Reasons why they carried Sill away, which include his private trade; torturing a man to death on the coast; and sending gold to Gingelee to buy rice. Reply of Reade to Thos. Grove's accusations in which he says a man was tortured at Masulipatam to make him confess who stole the Company's pepper, and being fearful of punishment the night before he ate opium, which was the occasion of his death. Examination of William Matthewe, Factor on the Star, on similar interrogatories. Willoughby and Hunter greatly importuning him he "put his hand to carrying away" [Sill] seeing they had subscribed to same. Reade's answer to these accusations of Wm. Matthewe. The washers were beaten at Pettapoli 'tis true, yet no hindrance to the Star's dispeed as proved before Mr. Skibbowe in Bantam. Examination of George Willoughby, Cape Merchant on the Star. That he
carried away Sill, by the authority of the Agent and chief at Bantam having no time to proceed against him legally; he saw the clause of the Company's letter about President Rastell, but their hands were not to it, and knowing Sill's exorbitancy of private trade he proceeded so against him. Then follow eight separate accusations against Sill; torturing a man to death, he would have surprised the country junks for stopping customs owing to the Company, whereby the washers were beaten to the hindrance of the Star's dispeed for his private trade at various places, which are given in detail; that Reade and Cartwright contracted with the Governor of Armagon for 200 men to repossess Sill of the castle, and that Sill in the night was to come ashore, producing Gilbert Gardner to testify same, who vowed he knew no such thing, only he heard from Lieut. Smith that Sill was to come ashore that night, but on speaking with him found him very unwilling, and that Reade conveyed a letter to Bantam wherein Sill stirred up Hoare and others to withstand Willoughby's authority. Reade's answer to these accusations of Willoughby. As to contracting with the Governor of Armagon for 200 men to re-establish Sill in the castle, it is false; the Governor came to his chamber (whether out of affection or policy) and bewailed Sill's case, saying he was much wronged, and that if 300 men would do him any pleasure they should be at his command; Reade thanked him for his love to Sill but told him it was impossible with 1,000 men to regain the castle, well considering that any encouragement to such enterprises might prove prejudicial to their employers. 8½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1484.] |
| Jan. 11. |
377. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Committee intreated to repair to Sir James Bagg before his departure out of town, and desire him to clear his debt for cordage amounting to 515l. 2s. 7d. which the Secretary had often attended him for satisfaction, that they may not be forced to complain against him elsewhere. Theodore Holditch, M.A., Cambridge, and Oliver Whitby, of Oxford, tendered their services as preachers, but were told the Company are not resolved whether to send any or not besides Mr. Woolhouse, who has served the Company seven years, is now a suitor to go; if they come a fortnight hence they shall have a resolute answer. Report of Mr. Treasurer Bateman that he delivered to Mr. Harman, the Jeweller, the Company's great emerald to be new set which stood them in 400l. at least, who having been sent to divers times for the same now says he has by some unknown misfortune lost it. Committee intreated with Mr. Treasurer to speak privately with Harman, and if he give them not a good answer to warn him to appear in Court on Wednesday next. Ordered that 5l. 6s. 8d. due to Sir Edward Randall for a quarter's rent at Christmas last, and 6l. due to him for three quarter's rent of the ground whereon their new mill is built, be paid to Edward Collins, who is to return to Chillworth and tender and pay the same to Sir Edward on Tuesday which is the last day limited by the lease. Letter read from Austen, Master of the Swan, Bannister, and John Powell from Madeira of
4th Aug. advertising the health of the men and the well sailing and working of the ship. Resolved after some debate to sell their indigo at a noble per lb., and because this sale may not be made without the knowledge of the adventurers of the second voyage to whom the same doth wholly belong, to call a General Court this day sennight concerning the disposure of this and the pepper brought home in the London. On consideration of the business of Robert Stone concerning his broak of 50l. for not shipping out 10 bags of pepper, the Court observing his variety of excuses, of opinion that he is guilty, and confirmed said broak. Mr. Rich to be spoken withall to make payment of 15l. he had deducted for cloffe on a parcel of saltpetre bought of the Company, though often denied the same. Request of Capt. Millward for allowance for 45 lb. of defective silk, deferred until the Company have agreed with Sir Wm. Acton, who presses for the like favour; 8l. per cent. to be allowed to such as bought the Palsgrave's pepper and are willing to pay in their money on rebate. 3½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 167–170.] |
Jan. 12.
Pettapoli. |
378. "A remembrance from Mr. Cartwright at his departure hence for Masulipatam the 12th Jan. 1632." To be very importunate with the merchants to bring in the cloth, and to procure what he can at reasonable rates, towards which he has 1,100 pagodas. To keep fair correspondence with these Moors, especially men of fashion, and to be earnest with those who have engaged themselves to deliver what cloth they can procure, which is to be cured with expedition. To finish the building now in hand, and another for the washers; and then to pull down and rebuild the cook-room. A door to be made in the contrary part of the house, in regard the Governor is so near a neighbour as to have a view of their Court and House and of the merchants and Committees who repair to them, which they are very unwilling he should do. To rail in the garden in the great court and build a small dove house therein. To take up more money at interest to accommodate the Company's occasions at former rates, and trim up his own chamber and repair other parts of the house. Mutilated by damp. On same sheet, Tho. Colley to (the Agent and Factors at Masulipatam). Yesterday dispatched the sloop down the river for Masulipatam, which he hopes has arrived. This day arrived a pattamar from Armagon with transcript of their advices by the boat. The Governor intreats him to advise of 30 or 40 bales goods and 15 or 16 persons for transport this year on our ships for Persia, which he will send to be embarked at Masulipatam, and says his freight shall exceed others. Remembrances to Capt. Altham. Pettapoli, 1633, Jan. 22. Together, 1½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1485.] |
Jan. 14.
Pettapoli. |
379. T[homas] C[olley] to (the Agent and Factors at Masulipatam). Since Mr. Cartwright's departure for Masulipatam by boat yesterday nothing has happened worthy their knowledge, only this night arrived letters from Armagon, which having perused he has forthwith dispeeded to them. ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1482.] |
Jan. 15.
Surat. |
380. "Part of the faults of Henry Sill and Christopher Reade, committed on the coast Coromandel, against the affairs of the Hon. English East India Company, exhibited by Geo. Willoughby unto the President and Council of Surat, 15th January 1632." 1. For harbouring private trade from Bantam to the coast of Coromandel, on the Dove and Falcon, for Vesterman, Wm. Hoare, Ant. Verneworthy, Gerald Pinson, Humphry Weston, John Edwin, Clemt. Norton, Robt. Latch, &c. 2. Sill's planting private trade at Armagon with Raga Chetty, Governor, by contract to engross that inland trade by coasting voyages to Gingelly, Pegu, Raccan, and Tenasserim, to which Christopher Reade was privy and supposed a partner; employing junks with paintings, &c. from Armagon, to the Company's great damage, which was acknowledged by the Governor and promised to be delivered to John Hunter for the Company, being by consultation sequestered from Henry Sill's use. 3. Wilfully disobeying the Company's orders by not acknowledging Geo. Willoughby chief, who the Company appointed successor to Geo. Muschamp; Coromandel had always been subordinate to Bantam; being that Geo. Muschamp was long before departed for England; which disobedience gave root and strength to all the future disorders. 4. Wilful torturing to death by the Amboyna torture of water of a freeman of Masulipatam, which cruel act much estranged the people, whereby the investment of the second general voyage received prejudice, and was likely to have overthrown the whole investment of the Company, if by Willoughby the matter had not been taken up and pacified for a small sum of money. 5. Sill's wicked intent to take the Masulipatam junks as soon as he had conveniency, plainly intended for his particular ends, though "glozed" over with show of wrongs the Company had received; by which surprisal the Company would have been extirpated from all trade in the kingdom of Golconda, and Sill and associates have a double benefit by said prizes, and by the use of a good part of the Company's annual stock in their private trade, one half of which would have sufficed for Armagon alone, for the estate of Sill was far too small to follow that coasting trade; for surprisal of which junks he had provided a great boat to make a sloop or frigate. 6. Their wilful neglect of assisting the second general voyage, alleging they did not hold it fit to make new agreements with merchants and weavers before the old were performed, whereby the second general voyage could not that year have provided goods to supply the south factories, Bantam, &c., Lawrence Henley having made agreements with all the able merchants and weavers; which backwardness was by the good endeavours of Willoughby, after loss of time, removed. 7. Their wilful hindering the second general voyage's investment at Viraacheron, by privately buying up, for their private trade, the cloth which John Hunter and Thos. Grove had agreed for for said voyage, which hindered the departure of the Star 20 days at least. 8. The same at Pettapoli by disrespect to the Governor, and proffering forcible detention of moneys due for custom of goods laden on the Falcon, though several times required to desist by Willoughby, whereby the washers were seized with the cloth and beaten, and many ran
away, the Governor being very much incensed against the English, though the money was paid, and the curing of the cloth delayed at least 20 days, which, with the hindrance at Viraacheron, caused the Star's losing not only the Macassar voyage and spice, but also the timely sales of her goods at Bantam and Jambi, and providing timely pepper for lading the James and Star for England. 9. Sill's proffering to build up "a point" at Armagon against the consent of the Governor, whereby very great trouble was like to have followed, for a nobleman was sent down to punish that presumption, but one day before he arrived Sill was removed and on board the Star, which took away the edge of their anger, and with a small present was said nobleman pacified, and promised, with the consent of the great Governor, to admit of the point being finished afterwards. 10. Reade's wilful denying delivery of the Company's accounts to Willoughby and Council at Armagon, as per consultation of 24th Jan. 1631. 11. And to give assistance in the Company's affairs at Armagon. 12. His mutinous proceedings at Armagon, mentioned in several consultations of Jan. 1631, and intent to have had Sill on a jungada relanded in the night, and by force of arms, with the assistance of 200 men of that country, to re-possess him of the Company's fort and estate, to the very likely destruction of many of the Company's servants and ruin of their estate and trade. 13. His not hindering Sill's contract at Armagon for engrossing the coast trade, and the supplies he sent to Gingelly for providing three junks. For all which faults Sill and Reade were, by joint advice of all the Factors who were not partakers therein, removed to Bantam and their estates sequestered to the Company's possession till judgment, by reason of the Star's short stay at Armagon, and that Willoughby expected advice at Bantam from Thos. Rastell and Council for proceeding to judgment, to whom from Armagon he had given advice of all his proceedings; but by the first ship from Surat said Rastell displaced Willoughby without acquainting him with the cause, and appointed his passage on the James for Surat. In the rooms of Sill and Reade were left John Hunter and Nich. Bix, who by former long experience were far more able to manage the Company's affairs, but were displaced by Mr. Rastell. Signed by George Willoughby, John Hunter. The latter, though not present at the date hereof, subscribing in confirmation of its truth, on board the Royal James at sea, 26th Mar. 1633. Here follow "some of the abuses which Sill and Reade committed after their remove from Armagon." Their wilful endeavouring the withstanding of Willoughby possessing the place of Agent. Sill's intent of a mutiny in Bantam. Sill and Reade being at liberty and Willoughby imprisoned and with great cruelty used, all his writings were seized; it is not to be wondered at if he does not so punctually prove all his proceedings as required, but for proof alleges the consultations, nor had he any acquaintance with Sill or Reade before he met them on the coast Coromandel. Distraction has so long reigned in the Company's trade by suffering lewd and dishonest Factors to continue therein that it seems strange to be reformed, yet these proceedings against Sill and Reade have been formerly used in the south factories,
and on lesser causes. Reade, though second to Sill, was the principal actor in most of the faults alleged against him, forasmuch as Sill was always sickly and unfit for business, the inditing of letters on his bed excepted, and therefore what was ill done was more his fault than Sill's. In all the proceedings of the investment of the second general voyage by private handling the Company received great prejudice, especially on the Falcon's voyage to Gingelly. Reade neither by law nor reason ought to be received as a witness for Sill, because he is a party, and it may well be supposed they have, after their remove from Armagon, with the special help of Mr. Skibbowe delivered at Bantam copies of Willoughby and Council's advices to this Presidency against them, and President Rastell's consultations and advices to the Company, so that Sill might show a seeming innocency to the Company from Bantam, and to this Presidency on their arrival. But Willoughby had not the least of these favours, but all the cruel usage that could be inflicted, which might well cause all even his assistants in that cause to leave him who is condemned of all. 6½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1486.] |
| Jan. 16. |
381. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. List of the Committees according to their several employments for buying provisions, cordage, wine, &c., also the nomination of others in the room of Mr. Kirby, deceased, read and confirmed. Report of Mr. Acton that John Fowke threatened to complain to the General Court that the proceedings against him for recovery of the Company's debt were without the Company's allowance, and by instigation of his enemy Mr. Styles; the Court therefore declared that what he hath done was by their joint direction. Relation of Mr. Harman, the jeweller, how he lost the Company's great emerald and his hopes of its recovery, that understanding such a stone hath been found by a maid and is since come to the hands of an Italian, for whom he hath procured the Lord Chamberlain's warrant to bring him before his Lordship to examine; he desired the Court not to have any sinister opinion of him as though he had disposed of it, but having it in his private pocket, with other stones, by what means he knows not, it is lost, the Court told him the jewel was given him to be set and not to be carried about to be showed to any man, and therefore if the Company received it not by Lady Day next, they must then look for satisfaction at his hands. On consideration of the business of Francis Lloyd, late Purser of the Charles, and his abuses against the Company and understanding he is a poor man, after some debate it was ordered to detain 5l. 5s. due to him for freight of his private trade but to deliver him his 60 pieces of calicoes and a bale of Lapis tutia; he thankfully acknowledged their favour for dealing so gently with him. On report that divers adventurers in this Third Joint Stock, behind in the first and second payments, had promised to bring in their moneys, but others spake so doubtfully as if they intend not to make good any part of their subscriptions; ordered that a list of their names be presented against next meeting, that they may be warned to the Court, and upon their answers so to be proceeded with, whereby to enforce their payments, as there shall
be cause. Committees intreated to oversee the Auditors and Accountants in perfecting the accounts of the particular voyages outwards. 2 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 170–172.] |
Jan. 17–27.
Hague. |
382. Sir Wm. Boswell, H.M. Agent, at the Hague to (Sec. Sir John Coke). Here hath been a report for three or four weeks together of much harm done our English by the Dutch in the East Indies, which he has not been able to retrieve to any certain author. [Extract, Holland Corresp.] |
| Jan. 18. |
383. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. On reading a letter from Mr. Dixon, Steward to the Earl of Cleveland, to Edw. Sherburne, their Secretary, intimating his Lordship's desire to speak with Mr. Governor and Committee about their land and houses at Blackwall, Mr. Governor and Aldermen Fenn, Garwaie, and Abdi are intreated to do so. Relation of Mr. Fowkes that this morning the Lord Keeper, "at the seal," ordered that if Mr. Fowkes should within 10 days make over his adventures to the Company towards satisfaction of the decree in Chancery against him his Lordship would admit him to take his remedy for relief by Bill of Review. The Court thought fit to set the price of indigo at 6s. 8d., and with the pepper to be referred to the General Court in the afternoon, seeing the reasons for keeping the pepper on their hands are blown away and that by God's blessing their ships from the southwards may arrive in May. Ordered that Stevens deliver to the Master of the Rainbow a piece of timber 36 foot by 22 inches, to make a pair of cheeks for her main mast, to be paid for in money. Capt. Richard Allnutt entertained Commander of the fleet, bound for Surat, to go in the Palsgrave, at 13l. 6s. 8d. per month, allowing two months of his pay and his servant John Pollyn's wages to his aged mother, during his absence, and freight free at his own charge, 1½ tuns beer, and ½ tun wine for his own provision on the voyage, and Henry Dunn, Master under him, at 6l. 13s. 4d. per month; Capt. Wm. Morris, likewise entertained Commander of the Discovery and Vice-Admiral at 9l. per month, [Rich.] Lucas to be chief mate, and for his good service in the fight at Surat on shore against the Portugals was bestowed upon Capt. Morris 13l. 6s. 8d. in plate with the Company's arms engraven thereon, for which favour he humbly thanked the Court. Richard Hopkins entertained Master of the pinnace, bought at Ipswich, now named the Comfort, at 6l. per month. Stevens required to make all possible haste in sheathing and trimming the pinnace, which he promised to do, and have her launched in the two next springs at furthest. Joseph Hurlock to be paid 10s. 5d. for printing 100 bonds for Masters and Commanders. |
|
Minutes of General Court of the adventurers of the first and second Persian voyages and the Third Joint Stock. Exceptions taken by John Fowkes against the penning of some part of the last General Court, answered. Hereupon Mr. Governor demanded if he would pass over his adventure for satisfaction of the Company's debt, to which he replied that although he was willing to submit himself to the Company, yet he must not betray his own innocency, which doubtful
speech was understood as a denial, and the Court being acquainted with the Lord Keeper's order, made this morning, wherein Fowkes was again enjoined to pass over his adventures for the Company's satisfaction or otherwise within 10 days to stand committed, left the business till said order be taken out and so passed to the work of the day. Statement of Mr. Governor, that they were now called together for disposure of their indigo and pepper, the indigo being about 280 barrels, worth 27,000l. or 28,000l., and the pepper, 2,500 bags, worth about 34,000l., and first about their indigo he delivered his opinion, it was much risen in the Netherlands, and that some Quatemalo indigo had lately been brought into England from Spain; discussion as to the price, it had been set at 6s. 8d. per lb., but it will not go off; offer by one of the Generality of 6s. for 100 barrels, but Mr. Governor thought it not fit to set any lower price than 6s. 6d., finally, by erection of hands, ordered to leave the disposure of the indigo to the care of the Committees. It was next ordered that the price of pepper should be 17d. per lb., screened for transportation, and 17½ d. for town; that a book of subscription should lie open till the 1st Feb.; that no man should underwrite less than 100 bags, and upon security, forthwith to receive his pepper. 4 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 173–177.] |
Jan. 23.
Surat. |
384. Christopher Reade to the East India Company. This is the first time since his entrance into their service that he has had occasion to write, but in regard the late President Rastell and Council sent for him from Bantam to bear witness in some differences between Henry Sill and Geo. Willoughby upon coast Coromandel, thought it convenient in regard he is stayed by the President and Council from his country, to certify what he knows concerning these passages although he is persuaded they have had relations from Sill, deceased, and others. In 1630 Rastell arriving in India with power to be sole President, sent the Factors on coast Cormandel copy of a clause in his Commission to confirm the same, ordering said coast to have immediate dependance on Surat and not on Bantam as formerly. At same time the Company having appointed Willoughby Agent of the southern factories, and not acquainting him Bantam and depending factories were to be subject to President of Surat, Willoughby sought to have pre-eminence over the Factors on coast Coromandel, notwithstanding he had seen the President's letter to the contrary, upon which it was agreed in consultation that the Factors on the coast were over the old stock, and Willoughby chief over the second general voyage, both investments being almost accomplished, and the Joint Stock having sent away the Dove and intended the Falcon within six weeks, Willoughby not prevailing, invented many scandalous reports against Sill and other Factors, thinking to obtain his desire from the President, to whom he wrote an "invictive" letter 2nd November without acquainting Sill or the rest who had letters also to send in answer of the President's of 29th Sept., with lists of goods vendible in the southern factories, list of European goods vendible on the coast, and abstract of Second Joint Stock's estate on the coast, which were not dispeeded
till the 6th following, in regard Willoughby dissembling said he was sick and could not write. But Willoughby, failing of his expected order of pre-eminence, and puffed up with pride of his new agency, secretly threatened revenge, and on his arrival at Armagon with his weak assistants, the Master and company of the Star, treacherously entered the fort, and violently seizing Sill, carried him prisoner aboard the Star, and committed Reade to his chamber, and being demanded his power and reasons, answered that Sill was delinquent, and that he had order for what he had done which extended further than Sill; who desired all men to be quiet and encouraged his assistants to further the Star's dispeed. Having sent Sill aboard without questioning him of any wrong done to the Company, or suffering him to give account of the Company's estate in his possession, they violently took out of Reade's chamber the books of account belonging to the Second Joint Stock, disposing of the remains and debts as they pleased, making satisfaction to the second general voyage for all money formerly delivered out, whereas in equity they ought first to have satisfied the debts due to the Second Joint Stock; besides, the merchants indebted to the Old Stock complained that their goods were ready, but Willoughby and the rest had not time to look over the cloth. Willoughby having proclaimed himself Commander of the coast, sitting in consultation, demanded whether they might seize on Sill's estate; Reade answered they might, and also his life if their authority extended so far as their will, and if he would show his authority or any just reasons, he would readily join in any just action. By these strange proceedings the Company's affairs have been much distracted and deprived of able men, whereat the Dutch rejoice, the country people stand amazed, and he prays God the Portugals attempt not what they have long desired. The reasons for Willoughby's proceedings against Sill are declared at large in his examination before the President and Council, all grounded upon his own word without any witness; but for further satisfaction that Willoughby's accusations were false and proceeded from pride and malice, refers to the examinations taken before John Skibbowe and the rest at Bantam. And in regard it pleased God to take away Sill before his arrival at Surat, begs leave to lay open the truth in some more intricate particulars as proved in articles of the examination before Skibbowe as regards investments and goods and moneys delivered to Law. Henley at Pettapoli. Answer to the charges of private trade against Sill all the gold and silk was by Vesterman's order delivered to Sigr. Barnes, the Dutch chief merchant at Masulipatam, and not one ryal returned for Vesterman's account on the Falcon or Dove. Sill ordered the return of his voyage to Gingilee should be in rice and other grain, Masulipatam and Armagon being so sorely oppressed with famine that the living were eating up the dead, and men durst scarcely travel in the country for fear they should be killed and eaten; he intended only to relieve Armagon, whence the poor weavers, painters, and dyers would have all fled, to the Company's great prejudice, but for expectation thereof. Should be but weak
to persuade the Company that Sill sent this adventure without expectation of profit, but he never intended to forestall the Company's market at Armagon by buying up cloth for Pegu, Raccan, and Tenasserim, which voyage could not be effected in less than 20 months, while Sill intended on the next ship from England to depart the coast, his body being worn out in his 13 years' service in India, and 250 land per annum having fallen to him in England by his father's death; and indeed he had not undertaken that fatal coast employment, but by the urgent persuasion of the late Presidents Muschamp and Hoare, hoping to bring that once famous place to its former station; which intentions failed, partly by the great famine of the country, and partly by Willoughby's stratagems, for the keeping of two houses at Masulipatam was no little hindrance to the Company's affairs, for Willoughby's greatness could not be persuaded to live in the house with Sill, men going from house to house with their cloth to see who would give most, besides the double charge of housekeeping; and from the like absurdities Reade could hardly dissuade them at Armagon, only there they had such power that the country people durst do no such thing without their consent. The torturing of the porter of the house at Masulipatam that consented to the stealing of the Company's pepper, might indeed have been "prejudicious" to the Company's affairs, had not Sill rather than they should have any hindrance thereby paid near 100l. to the Governor, as attested in articles 16, 17, 18, and 19 of the examination before Skibbowe. The taxing of Sill to use hostility on the junks of Masulipatam is as false as impossible, there being never a ship on the coast to effect the same, nor any just cause to put any such thing in practice; only once did Sill consult with Willoughby when they could not be suffered to lade goods at Pettapoli according to agreement, whether they might not seek satisfaction by such means if the Company should be damnified; is not certain what was concluded, it being but a conference, and they obtained licence by fair means to lade at Pettapoli. This, as the rest, is only to make Willoughby's proceedings seem more sufferable. Matthewe says there were 78 bales on the Dove for private uses, and Willoughby that 60 bales were on the Falcon between Muntipoli and Nettipoli, but if the Company have suffered it was by the negligence of them that knew of such private trade, and never revealed it. Willoughby adds an accusation against Reade in particular, that he had contracted with the Governor of Armagon to betray the fort and re-establish Sill, but his witness protested he knew no such matter. By these and the like aspersions upon honest men, he would persuade men that all was out of integrity to the Company, when the ground proceeded from only pride and malice; prays them to peruse all his letters, and there shall not be found any complaint against Sill until 2nd Nov. 1630, when he received the Company's letters to be Agent for the southern factories, and so would be chief on that coast. Many have been suspicious that if Willoughby could have been chief over the Second Joint Stock he would have much prejudiced the same by preferring the second general voyage, at which Reade wondered, but has been
more credulous since understanding Willoughby is an adventurer, for in discourse he would often wish the Second Joint Stock's estate sunk in the sea; and when the Falcon was like to drive ashore at Masulipatam, he denied her a cable and anchor, but she was preserved by the coming in of a Dutch ship which furnished her wants. Desires the Company to take notice Reade will justify by oath everything he has written. His covenanted time being expired intended to return home on the Great James, but has been urgently persuaded by the President and Council to return for Bantam on the Exchange by way of the west coast, where he is ordered to endeavour her lading with pepper, and be at Bantam in the beginning of June, which will hardly be effected in regard of the small quantities and ill sorts of cloth provided, which at present could not be remedied considering its scarcity and dearness. Desired the President and Council to augment his wages to 100l. per annum, but they answered that they had not power, but would advise thereof in the general letter. Hopes by the next to have his request granted, or licence to go for his country. 8 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1487.] |
| Jan. 23. |
385. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. John Edgar recommended by certificate from the parish of Christ's Church entertained for a "younker," and referred to the Committees for mariners for wages; also Joseph, son of George Lovett, late the Company's painter, who had lain sick these two years and hath a charge of five small children. Petition of John Davies, of Whitechapel, administrator to Mathew Clarke deceased in India, for Clarke's estate for the use of his daughter Elizabeth; the Court understanding the churchwardens of Stepney had made stay thereof because the girl was born in their parish till the parish be secured that she shall never be chargeable to them, ordered they shall have notice to show cause why same should not be paid or certify their consent. Capts. Alnutt, and Swanley, and Steevens directed to use all possible diligence for dispatch of the Palsgrave; and understanding that all the shipkeepers and other workmen but one had on Sunday last forsaken the ship, the Court ordered them to be dismissed and the Land Purser to be sent for to give account of so dangerous a negligence. Wm. Frost, Master of the Consolation of Ipswich lately bought by the Company, having brought her about and safely delivered her into the dock at Blackwall, ordered that he be paid 1,000l. for said ship and 22l. 1s. 4d for his charges. Frederick Perdu, who had served the Dutch 14 years in the West and East Indies entertained at 30s. per month, to go Corporal in the Admiral and instruct the mariners in the use of their arms; also Jeffery Bradford, another soldier, to go Corporal in the Vice-Admiral at 25s. per month and train the mariners. Petition of Peter Weaver that Tho. Chewe, a Factor, entertained for India, owed him 170l. and refused satisfaction; both parties to attend the Court on Friday next. Request of Frances, wife of Hugh Tottell, executor to Robert Tottell, that Capt. Morris and Adrian Montgomery be called to declare what was Robert's estate at the time of his
decease and where it is; Capt. Morris declared that 300l. thereof was delivered to Mr. Gibson in Persia, wherein Mr. Heynes challenged interest, and the receipt was in Mr. Sambrooke's hands. Ordered on request of Mr. Langham that his time for payment for two parcels of pepper bought 31st Oct. last, begin from 24th Dec. the time set for the rest of the pepper and cloves. The orders conceived by Ellam for suppressing private trade approved and ordered to be added to the Captains commissions to enable them to restrain the exorbitancy thereof. One Master's Mate extraordinary to be shipped in each ship to supply the defect of ships abroad if required. Note presented by Steevens of timber and plank wanting in the yard, viz., compass timber 250 loads, beam and wale 100 loads, elm 80, knee 60, 4 inch plank 150, and 3-inch 100 loads, referred to the next Court, the Court having risen before the note was read. Request of Mr. Fowkes according to the order in Chancery of 18th Jan. last to have copies of the orders for detaining his adventure and concerning the saltpetre; the Secretary directed to let him copy such particular orders as he should require; but Fowkes requiring to see all their orders in these matters, and alleging that there had been "an extraordinary practice with the register for the drawing up of the said order" in Chancery, and that the Company might "overbear him with their countenance and purse," in fine because the Court and Mr. Fowkes could not understand each other concerning the copies desired, he was referred for answer to Friday next, Mr. Acton to attend. 3 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 177–179.] |
Jan. 23.
Surat. |
386. Roger Giffard to East India Company. Wrote a few lines from the Bay of Augustine by the Dutch ship Scravenhaghe, Willibrand, Commander, and have by their general letter of this date advertised of all matters needful in answer to the Company's last letter received by the last fleet in which Giffard was a passenger. The making of Gombroon their first port, where they arrived the 4th Oct., proved not to the health of their people, for many fell sick and some died, amongst others Edw. Seager, Henry Sill, and Thos. Rosse, the Agent in place of Seager; himself and brother also were sick for 10 or 12 days. Cannot but attribute this unhealthfulness in part to the heats and calms of those parts in that season, and the bad water of that place, yet infers not that that voyage is to be desisted from in that season if there be good occasion for it, for a Divine Providence overrules all, and no man expires before his time. Came to anchor in Swally Road 28th Nov., with their whole fleet, where they found three Flemish ships. Next day came down President Hopkinson and Messrs. Mountney, Wyche, Joyce, and others, to their great rejoicing at finding so many able men living; but the President was then ill and weak, and so has continued, being unable to do any great matter of business by reason of the soreness of his eyes and indisposition; which has been long upon him and is the cause he is so backward in his accounts, so that they cannot send any accounts by this ship, though Mountney's account is very forward, orderly, and well kept.
Has posted and balanced two pair of the books of Mr. Barber, deceased, both concerning the first general voyage and Second Joint Stock, and would have sent them could they have got them copied in time. Will now seriously set themselves to these businesses and send home all accounts by the Mary; for whose designment, with that of the other ships, and the lamentable accident to the Charles and Swallow they may please to be referred to the general letter. Endorsed, "Received by the Great James 25 Augt 1633." 1½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1488.] |
| Jan. 25. |
387. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Motion of Mr. Acton that the Court would not have their ears open to any impertinent discourse of Mr. Fowkes, who when the decree or orders in Chancery are not as he would have them presently, comes sometimes to their General Courts and sometimes to their Courts of Committees and quarrels with them, and if he can take hold of anything he conceives may fit his purpose, makes affidavit thereon, and if he prevails not in Chancery then comes back again and quarrels with the orders here, which are settled upon hearing counsel on both sides; he conceived the order of the 18th Jan. had relation only to the orders concerning the detention of Fowkes' adventure and not to the saltpetre decreed in the former suit; Fowkes being called in demanded as on Wednesday last, copies of all the orders concerning his adventure and the saltpetre, and was answered, as before; and demanded in conformity with his Lordship's order to transport his adventure for satisfaction of the decree and supply, the rest in money, or otherwise pay in the whole sum decreed; whereto his answer was that his adventure was not in his power to transport, being sold to another, nor could he pay in so great a sum before he had seen the orders desired, and after some further conference he departed. Report of Mr. Acton that Mr. Hawley's business is again committed to the former referees, who had appointed to meet on Monday afternoon, when Mr. Governor and others were desired to be present. Gratuity of 40s. to Wm. Frost, late Master of the Consolation of Ipswich, for his pains in bringing her about. On petition of Mr. Weaver and Mr. Chewe to arbitrate the business between them, Messrs. Gayre and Cordell are named arbitrators and Mr. Governor umpire. Reason given by Mr. Salmon, churchwarden of Stepney, why the estate of Matthew Clarke should not be paid to Davies the administrator, because he is a poor man, and cannot give security to save the parish harmless from future charge of Clarke's child in case he should misspend the estate; but Wm. Carpenter, of St. Botolph's Without Aldgate, declaring their parish had taken care for the child and Davies had agreed to put 20l. into the hands of the churchwardens for the child's use, which would secure both parishes from charge, Salmon consented to payment of the estate to said administrator. Complaint of John Chamberlain of a charge of 9l. to his account for cloves and pepper. The order of the Lords concerning Collins read, and 20 nobles bestowed on the two messengers that went down to the mills for their charges and fees. Capt. Mason to give satisfaction for the ordnance he bought.
Desire of Capt. Alnutt that the Palsgrave have but 40 pieces of ordnance, and some of those less than formerly, in regard of the age of the ship and weakness of her upper works; but the Court observing the strength of the enemy and being unwilling to weaken their own, referred their opinions till Wednesday. 3 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 180–182.] |
Jan. 25.
Surat. |
388. Jos. Hopkinson, Nath. Mountney, Rog. Gifford, and Thos. Joyce to the East India Company [letter abstracted]. The burning of the Swallow and Charles, whereby an alteration of the dispose of their ships. The Mary and Dolphin to go for Masulipatam and Bantam, if the Mary's lading shall not be procured to go directly from Surat to London. Goods sent from home into Persia may be invested into ready money and brought thence freely. Cannot avoid transporting Moors and Banyans goods to Persia, but will endeavour to invest greater quantities for the Company's account. Will forbear the stealing of Customs hereafter. "The Shroffes" shall not keep their cash more than necessity shall inforce. Will keep their accounts in rupees, though it will be difficult. The President will follow the Company's order in doing or writing nothing without the consent of his Council; and all prime factors in other factories the like. Chirurgery necessary to be sent for the factory at Surat. 4,000 or 5,000 ryals shall be advised to be invested in pearls at Persia, but think there will be no such quantities found there; about the choice whereof they purpose to send Mr. Wylde thither. The 30l. imprested to Mr. Gifforde shall be defalked. What shall be found coming to Gregory Clement from Mr. Predis shall be brought to the Company's account as soon as Mr. Skibbowe's writings shall be perused, who was his overseer. No hope to recover Jaddowe's debt; he is very poor. Will endeavour the prevention of cutting open the bales of calicoes; the carters carrying them between Surat and Persia without overseers are the pilferers. Paintings shall be procured against next year for the King, but the white cloth sent hither for that purpose is wholly rotten. Have warned these people of the intent of the French to rob in the Red Sea. The dispeeding of the Company's ships in the best season shall be endeavoured. The President's sickness hath hindered the finishing of the Company's accounts; he desires favourable censure until the Mary's return. (In margin :—Yet you might have sent home the copies of the journals, especially of the Persia account, which were sent you two years since.) The money for Sir Francis Crane's tapestry is not yet recovered, through J. W.'s fault. John Willoughby is sent into Persia. Seven Dutch ships here to go upon some exploit. The cause of firing the two ships. The shells required by Capt. Crispe are not to be had here, but in Patani, thither brought from the Maldeevas. Clement Dunscombe, Secretary, gratefully accepts the augmentation of his wages. John Spiller recommended, have, according to order, made his wages for five years, viz., 20l. for each of the first three years, and 10l. rising for the next two years, if the Company please to confirm the same. Have endeavourd to suppress private trade, and made acts against the
same; but the Pursers and Seamen in Capt. Weddell's fleet are exorbitant, whereby the prices of all Europe commodities are much debased. Quicksilver brought to 2¼ ma. seere. Geo. Gosnell brought 60 barrels of quicksilver, which they went to seize, but missed it, whereby the Company may see how ready they have been to suppress private trade. (In margin:—A notable simulation, could you not have seized Gosnell and inforced him to bring them out?) The Boatswains and Pursers deny any such in their knowledge. Have also made acts against fathering Moor and Banyans goods. Of the 77 bales of calicoes left in Bantam by the James, some Banyans here challenge a few to be carried by Mr. Skibbowe and Capt. Morton for their account. The Company shall have notice of any other demands. John Hunter licensed to go home, in regard there is no use of his services here; some error in his account of Armagon, for which part of his wages may be detained. Have entreated Mr. Reade's longer stay, in regard of his abilities recommended from the agent in Bantam; for the augmentation of his wages he refers himself to the Company. One hundred and seventy ryals seized of Willoughby's by Skibbowe, they have here repaid him. Henry Sill's diamonds, said to be missing, are acknowledged to be in Reade's possession. (In margin:—Why not taken from him to the Company's account and sent home?) Certain jewels and stones, belonging to Thos. Rastell, now returned home. Capt Morton owes to Rastell's account 50l., which his estate will not satisfy here; the Company may please detain it out of his wages in England. Capt. Weddell hath well performed his endeavours, and is made General over all shipping here, seated in the Jonas. The Master and Officers of the Swallow sent home in irons. Purpose to send shipping to Masulipatam for a freight from thence to Persia. Have examined the difference between Willoughby and Sill. Reade has cleared himself of most of Willoughby's accusations. Condemn Willoughby for removing the Company's Factors. All referred to the Company's censure. Have employed Reade and Matthewe in the Exchange for Sumatra. The Agent in Bantam hath encouraged them to make this voyage. Reade has done nothing worthy his former sufferings. Matthewe was merely misled. Grove and Berdall returned for lack of employment, and their disabilities. Quipp has received and laid out for the Company certain moneys of Willoughby's. Skibbowe seized 170 ryals of Willoughby's for the Company's use. All his writings were redelivered him. Skibbowe proves much indebted to this country people for moneys taken up at interest in the Company's name for his own use while he was President; the Company may please therefore to stop all his means; find he has made much money home to some of his friends; stop their payments in the Purser's books. Inventories sent of Mr. Rosse's estate come into the Company's cash, which they may repay at rates to their own liking, deducting freight, for the proceeds arose by bringing unlicensed goods. Four carpets sent home for Sir John Wolstenholme and one for Mr. Bell; Capt. Morton ordered the investment, but know not whether they have satisfied him for them. Thomas Joyce desires augmentation of his wages, being now but
33l. 6s. 8d. John Drake the like, being but 20l. Two months' pay delivered to the sailors whose apparel was burnt in the Swallow and Charles; referred to the Company. Lord Denbigh has satisfied them for his own and attendants' diet to 5th January. Six very fine broad cloths required by this Governor, three of one colour and three of another, viz., three of 40l. a piece, white, and three of 20l. a piece. (In margin:—Where are the patterns?) 2 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1428.] |
Jan. 25.
Masulipatam. |
389. John Norris, Ra. Cartwright, and Tho. Clarke to Thos. Colley, at Pettapoli. Have received his of the 14th, 21st, and 22nd, advising of their boat's arrival and dispeed, which at this present is two miles hence up this river. Dispeeded yesterday in convoy of Richard Fitch, 2,000 pag., new and old; it cost dear, therefore he ought to make the better use thereof. He knows the cloth best befitting Europe, for which this investment is intended, and Richard Fitch is appointed to assist him. He must daily solicit their merchant Ananto for the cloth, for time is near expired, their washers want employment, and these people are very slack in performance. By no means must he suffer the Company's money to lie dead by him, but endeavour to invest it, sending people into the country, and advising them what store of cloth, at reasonable rates, may be procured, and when he wants a supply; that they take not up moneys at interest unnecessarily, for the rate is very high. His Governor, with his goods, shall be welcome when their ships arrive, which yet they expect not these three months, whereof also they have advised him in a letter herewith. The Governor promised to see Carnam Vincota discharge his debt so long owing to the Company; pray be earnest with him about it, and tell him they expected his word would have been of more validity. Send by first good opportunity 100 patch of good Dungarees, which are not to be procured here by any means. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1489.] |
Jan. 27.
Ship Jonas, Swally Port. |
390. Capts. Jas. Slade, John Weddell, Rich. Swanley, John Hatch, and Rich. Monck to East India Company. Wrote by the Amboyna and have sent copy by the James, and where then were short will now be full. Going first to Persia, fell out, though unhealthful to themselves, yet otherwise advantageous to their voyage; for the Dutch were sent to Gombroon to proffer the Duke their assistance in taking Muscat, and had so wrought themselves into his favour, that had not our ships arrived in the nick, they had gained the silk which the King, at the request of the Khan, provided for us. Mr. Rastell had formerly sent Capt. Slade with instructions to the Agent to discuss this business, when by consultation it was thought necessary that the English should reassume that employment from the Dutch, to secure the trade and their reputation, being bound thereto by a League of Amity, and also to prevent the mischiefs that arise from so bad a neighbour as the Dutch, for wherever they gain footing we lose ground. It is too well known how by oblique instructions and clandestine practices they have in a manner ruined the credit of the English with the Governor of Surat, from whom they suffer daily injuries and affronts, the Dutch
enjoying what immunities and liberties they please. Neither is there a factory free from particular injuries and affronts of the Dutch. To prevent the like ensuing harms it is resolved, by consultation, to hasten with all speed to Persia and undertake this service for the Duke in case he press it, and be ready with his forces, notwithstanding the loss of the Company's two ships. Yet they conceive some doubt of its attempting this year, for they have intelligence by the Amboyna from Mr. Kirkham that the Duke's preparations went but slowly on, and therefore there would be no necessity to over-hasten their return. Hear since by another Dutch ship from Mr. Barlowe, a Gentleman attendant on the Earl of Denbigh and left at Gombroon, that the King in person has converted all the Duke's forces against the Georgians, who have made divers inroads into his country, defeated his army, and taken prisoner the Duke of Serash [Shiraz] his brother. Cannot determine the certainty whereof till their coming thither, but in case the siege of Muscat go not forward, are to return with freight goods to Surat, and thence be dispeeded for Masulipatam, there to receive freight goods to the value of 7,000l., which Mr. Norris writes he has already agreed for, and with them return again to Persia. Make account their rendezvous will be either in Jasques Road or at Gombroon in September or the beginning of October. Have spared to the Earl of Denbigh, who has taken his passage home in the James, two butts of sack, for which he will make double satisfaction in England. Shall have great want of bread, sail cloth, flesh, wine, cordage, and stuff, by reason of many disbursements to other ships, and the number of men they have taken, having hardly provisions for those they had. All provisions are here very dear, and little to be had. Thought good to advertise them of an experiment they made of St. Augustine's beef, salting up some of the principal pieces with half bag and half white salt, which on their arrival here after five months they found exceedingly good; and surely that island would be a great benefit and saving if they had beads wherewith to trade for cattle; the heads brought were so bad they would hardly go off with the country people. The pinnace is to go with letters to St. Augustine's Bay, after she has been on the coast, and they have sent salt with her, with orders to salt up some beef against the coming of the ships. Divers searches into the Swallow's wreck, have regained 7,674 Rs.; nothing can be seen or found of the Ch(arles)? The caphila down from Ahmedabad, and they now stay for nothing but wind. The Mary will make a speedier return than expected, for they hear Mr. Fremlyn is already provided with 1,500 bales of Agra indigo, and hopes to make it 2,000, besides other goods. The Portugal frigates are very bold, coming daily within shot of our ships; some 20 of them set on a Dutch ship of 1,000 tons and 40 guns, which came from Bantam with a Portugal prize from Malacca between Gundavee and the River of Surat's mouth, and so desperately plied her that they endangered her firing; and since the James and Dolphin went over the bar, they came so near that were forced to drive them off with their ordnance, and shot one of them. Mr. Hammond detained Chirurgeon for the Factory; the rest of the
chief Chirurgeons, except Mr. Bullard, dead, and the many men sick have wasted all their chief store so that we shall want a large supply. Endorsed, a General letter of all the sea captains from Surat, all under sail, without the Bar and going for Persia. Mutilated by damp. 3 pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1492.] |
| Jan. 27. |
391. Abstract of preceding. [O.C., Vol., XIV., No. 1456.] |
Jan. 27.
Armagon. |
392. Capt. Manuel Altham to Thos. Colley at Pettapoli. Requests him to get made for him six very large lansols, well painted with flowers, big enough for an English bed, for he intends them for England; as also two or three dozen well painted long pillobers. By this pattamer sends the moulds and trunk left for him by Mr. Addams. The lansoles should be 3½ yards or more long and 3 broad. 4th Feb. Since sealing this, his of 25th last arrived. Kindly thanks him for the two chintes he has sent him by William Bruton. Will desire either Mr. Cartwright or Mr. Fitch to send him the moneys he shall owe him. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1491.] |
Jan. 29.
Musliapatam. |
393. John Norris, Raphe Cartwright, and Thomas Clarke to Thomas Colley and other Merchants in Pettapoli. Received this instant theirs of 28th, and understand the money sent by Richard Fitch is safely come to hand, as also the present scarcity of cloth fitting their purpose. Had they contracted by muster as desired, cloth must have been delivered accordingly, whereas now they must receive it at price current. If their agreement with Vincolay for six bales is in like manner, it is to very small purpose and contrary to reason. Salampores and Percallas, at the extraordinary rates it seems they now are, will be better left than taken, seeing the investment is for Europe where its cheapness is the occasion of its vent. Henceforward let all their agreements be by muster as formerly advised, which should be sent to Masulipatam for approbation and to compare with the sorts there provided. Are very sensible that the Governor of Pettapoli has imprisoned their Merchants, and have herewith written to him for their release, which they are persuaded will take effect; if not, they must advise speedily, that some other course may be taken. The request of Mier Ahassen concerning three guz. stamell is granted, and shall be sent. The saddles they advise of, being this country work, cannot be so curious as to find acceptance with this King, however, it is now too late, and they are sufficiently furnished with those of their own country, which they conceive will better please him. 1 p. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No. 1490.] |
| Jan. 30. |
394. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Complaint of Capt. Covell that he is charged 4l. 5s. per barrel for 50 barrels of powder he bought of the Company, whereas the agreement was 4l. per barrel; Fotherby to produce his warrant for delivery, wherein it is conceived the price is inserted. Request of Sir John North that a broak of 20l. charged on his account for not transporting four bags of pepper be remitted alleging he sold it to Mr. Blackwell, the King's grocer, with condition
to be transported, which Blackwell admitted, and that he entered it in the Custom House, but afterwards shipping it in a pair of oars carried it to Whitehall, where it was spent in his Majesty's household; the Court, after debate, ordered that Blackwell pay 20 marks to Sir John and Sir John 20 nobles, to be defalked out of his 16th half capital now due, to which they willingly submitted. Acton's bill of 12l. 10s. for law charges to be paid. The difference with Richard Edwards concerning his broaks referred to two Committees to settle. Ordered, on the motion of Capt. Alnutt, that the Palsgrave carry only 40 pieces of ordnance instead of 42. Capt. Alnutt and Stevens charged forthwith to employ Philip Whyte, a diver, or any other means for weighing a lighter which in the late storm sank at Erith by the side of the Palsgrave, with anchors and other iron provisions. John Spiller directed once more to attend those adventurers who are behind in their payments for the Third Joint Stock, and others who owe moneys to the Company on bills, and desire them to bring in their moneys within 14 days, otherwise they will read their names publicly in Court and proceed against them by law. Mr. Crossethwaite recommended by Mr. Gattaker, and Mr. Holditch by Aaron Wilson, suitors to go preacher in this fleet, directed, according to custom, to preach at the parish church of St. Helens, the former on Tuesday afternoon next from Psalm xix. I, and the latter on Wednesday afternoon from Psalm cvii. 23 and 24, and upon hearing them the Court will fall to a resolution which to entertain in their service. Concerning a debt charged on the account of Thos. Chamberlain for parcels of pepper and cloves, the receipt whereof he denied; ordered that Chamberlain have his warrant for his 16th dividend without deduction for his more ease, and that the debt be charged on his adventure in the first Persia voyage. Bill of John Lemprier's for 1l. 2s. for the search and indictment of Matthew Kirby and Wm. Laming on suspicion of stealing beef pork, iron, &c. at Blackwall, to be paid. 3½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XIII., 183–186.] |
Jan. 31.
Surat. |
395. President Joseph Hopkinson to [Nath.] Wyche. Concerning some idle reports of John Hunter about him; assurances of friendship, he has not a more true-hearted friend in this factory. Has sent up Edward Knipe, and doubts not he will find him diligent, pliant, and obedient. Has sent also, as a token of his love, "a curious new invent faccon [? fashion] pistol, that serves also for a walking staff"; it was sent him from a dear friend in England, but in that place Wyche can better make use of it. 1½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XIV., No., 1493.] |
