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| Oct. 1–3. |
609. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Petition of Richard Higham, late Purser of the Exchange, for delivery of all his goods in partnership with Capt. Pynn and otherwise in their custody, the cloves and indigo excepted, his wages and debts the Company have in their hands amounting to 400l. or 500l. to answer freight or other demands for his private trade, and breach of bond.
Petition of the wife of John Pashly, late Master of the Mary, deceased two years since, of what is due on her husband's accounts. Richard Collins, Drummer in the Jonas, wbo without leave left the Exchange and returned in the Jonas, fined 20s. out of his wages. The box of jewels brought home by Capt. Slade belonging to Agent Heynes, deceased, in Persia, opened and viewed and delivered to Mr. Treasurer sealed, to be valued by Harman the jeweller. Mr. Governor acquainted the Court that the sister and executrix of Heynes is coming this morning, expecting not only an inventory of her brother's estate, but also possession of the jewels, and imparted passages of a letter making a notable discovery, how that Heynes and other Factors in Persia having made a contract for private trade, have much wronged the Company and enriched themselves by employing their quick stock to a very great proportion; whereupon agreed neither to let the executrix have a copy of the inventory, nor to part with any of the estate, until they receive their accounts from Persia. A small diamond ring which George Willoughby had leave to send to the King of Acheen as a token, and now returned, delivered to Sambrooke for Willoughby's use. Freight remitted to Tho. Sotherne, returned in the Exchange, on 1 cwt. of assafætida, and to Alice mother of Wm. Parsly, on 60 lbs. of myrrh, and 70 lbs. of turbith. The Court fell again into dispute concerning the disposure of the goods in the Mary; some guided by the invoice that they are the goods of the third voyage, others that they belong to the Third Joint Stock, and several propositions made, but generally approved to set a valuation on the three voyages and bring them into the Joint Stock, some setting the first at 160l. per cent., the second at 180l., and the third at 140l., others valuing them together at 150l.; but in conclusion a Committee intreated to assist the Auditors in examining the accounts now returned, also the Company's whole estate, so that they may be prepared to answer all objections and demands at the next General Court. Ordered to bestow 40s. on Wm. Simkins for apparel, and free him for the remainder of his time, having been out 3½ years. |
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Oct. 3. Committee to make provision of cordage for two great ships, though as yet purposed to send out only one and a pinnace. Mountney to make entry tomorrow in the Custom House of the chests of ryals to be sent in the Expedition, now ready to fall down to Gravesend, so they may be in readiness to send down with their letters next week. The Court took again into consideration the business concerning the goods returned in the Mary so much disputed, and as it appeared an impossibility to reconcile the differences of opinion grounded on the uncertainty of the invoice, bill of lading, and letters of advice, fell to these propositions; that all the goods brought home in the Exchange and Mary be forthwith sold, and the moneys reserved in the Company's bands till the accounts of next year be returned, and in case this should not be approved by the Generality then to value the particular voyages and bring them all into the Joint Stock; this proposition generally liked as the best to settle all differences; the Court inclined to value the first voyage at 160l. per cent., the second at 180l., and the third
at 140l. as the most equal, to be paid at year, year and year from Christmas next; and, further, to divide a capital to the adventurers in the third voyage, two-thirds in pepper at 18d. per lb., and one-third in rich indigo at 6s., or to be paid in money at 5–6 months, with liberty to the adventurers to put in the profits of said voyages into the Joint Stock, viz., 20l. per cent. for the first, 30l. for the second, and 40l. for the third, as an addition to their subscriptions in the Joint Stock, provided they declare their resolutions before the end of this month; which Mr. Governor was intreated to propound to the Generality in the afternoon. A small Japan trunk sent from Methwold with a few calicoes and other toys for tokens to his wife and friends to be delivered to his wife without freight. The Secretary to attend Sir Henry Marten to know whether he sent Mrs. Heynes to demand an inventory of her brother's estate, and to acquaint him with the cause for detaining same. Request of Fotherby to deliver free of freight 2 cwt. of pepper sent home as tokens by Wm. Matthewe, Factor, who suffered imprisonment with Willoughby, answered they will deal with him as they do with all others and give him 6d. per lb. for same. 5½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 52–57.] |
| Oct. 3. |
610. Minutes of a General Court. Mr. Governor made known they were now met to return thanks to God for the safe arrival of the Mary, a ship double the value of the Exchange, lately returned which hath brought along with her some debate, forasmuch as the accounts are come liome so imperfect, that after three or four days dispute the Committees still differ in opinion to whom the goods belong. He then reported the resolution of the Court of Committees abstracted in the preceding Court Minutes, and desired to know if the Generality can think of any other or better course. Capt. Milward then delivered his opinion as did Alderman Garwaie, Mr. Deputy, and Alderman Abdi. Their great debt in India of 100,000l., but "which of these voyages owes it no man can tell"; the cause of these intricacies chiefly through the hand of God and the mortality of so many of their Factors and servants by means whereof their affairs have fallen into the hands of an undeserving man, who hath brought this confusion. After this had all been long argued and disputed, Mr. Governor put to the question whether the goods should be sold or not, which by erection of hands was generally consented to, reserving the pepper and rich indigo for division. In the next place Mr. Governor put to the question the several valuations of the three voyages, and it was ordered and agreed that the valuation of the first Persia voyage be 160l., the second 180l., and the third 140l. per cent., and that the three Persia voyages be immediately turned over to said Third Joint Stock. And whereas the adventurers in the first voyage have already received their principal and 40l. per cent. profit, and in the second their principal and 50l. per cent. profit, the third is now ordered to receive their principal, the remains and profits of said voyages are only for the second 20l. per cent., for the first 30l., and 40l. per cent. for the third. Ordered that this be paid to the adventurers of said
three voyages, by the Third Joint Stock at year, year and year from Christmas next, with liberty to put said profits into the Third Joint Stock as a further increase of their adventures; provided they declare their resolutions therein before the end of this month of October. |
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Oct. 8. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. On petition of Mary, wife of Fras. Deacon, ordered that she be paid two months of her husband's wages to pay fees and duties for obtaining the place of a deputy midwife. Considering their great debt at interest, and the further engagement the Old Stock is liable for, to the adventurers of the particular voyages according to the valuation made at the last General Court, and finding that divers adventurers in the third voyage are yet behind in their payments to a very great sum, and others indebted by bill, for goods, for interest and broaks, which ought to have been paid long since; ordered that adventurers so indebted, of what condition soever, have no warrants for goods or moneys on this dividend to the third voyage until they first clear their accounts. No record having been made of the report of Alderman Garwaie and Abdi on the difference between the Company and Bownest, they are therefore intreated once more to review said accounts, upon whose report the Court will order what shall be just. Report of Sherburne that Sir Henry Marten advised to deliver to the executrix of Heynes forthwith, copy of the inventory of his estate and admit her to be present at the valuing of the jewels, that they may without prejudice supply her with 100l. on bond to repay, in case the estate on examination will not bear it, to which she willingly agreed, promising not to trouble the Court, nor question the estate till next year that the accounts be returned from Persia. Freight remitted to Harman the jeweller, in regard of his willingness at all times to do the Company service, on certain calicoes and stuffs sent in the Mary as tokens from his son-in-law a Commander under the Dutch. Ordered the Mary being discharged, that the ordinary mariners be paid their wages, but the wages of the Commanders, Factors, and other chief officers to be stayed until special order for payment. Motion of Alderman Garwaie that in the general letters Ellam be required to take knowledge of the great abuse of the Factors at Surat, as appears by the accounts brought home in the Mary, in permitting the Company's cash to be kept and disposed of by the Shraffs and Brokers, with express order that henceforth it be brought into their own house, and disbursed by their own servants, and particular account kept of receipts and disbursements. The wife of Henry Stout, Mate in the Hopewell, deceased, to be paid 22l. at the rate of 2s. per lb. in satisfaction of a quantity of quicksilver seized and sold on his death at Masulipatam for the Company's account. Friday next come senight appointed for a Court of Sales, 4 hhds. of cloves, brought home as private trade, sold to Alderman Garwaie at the same price as the last parcel to Capt. Crispe. Bill of Edmund Chambers, Master of their barge, for 4l. 10s. for carrying down the Committees several times to Erith and back for discharging the Mary to be paid. Gratuity of 10s. apiece out of the poor box to Anne, widow of Derrick Curtis, Joyce Candler, widow, and Mary, widow of Thomas Whitfield. 6½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 57–64.] |
| Oct. 10. |
611. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Bill of 3l. 7s. 10d. for charges of Henry Syms' journey to the Downs to fetch the chests of writings to be paid. Order from the Lord Keeper for commitment of Daniel Bonneale to the fleet read and ordered to be pursued, though Bonneale had desired Mr. Governor to suspend the execution. Notice taken that two bales of silk are missing from the lighter, embaled with leather, which came from Bengala; all diligence to be used to find them. Motion of Mr. Richaut for his warrant for his division,but intimation given that the bargain for 200 tons of saltpetre is not yet cleared, and Mr. Cobb declared he had delivered in part for the value of 6,000l., and there remained undelivered for 7,000l. more; Smethwyke's reasons why Richaut had only received 70 tons, and Kipp had not received his 100 tons; resolved that all difficult reckonings with adventurers be cleared before they receive warrants for their divisions. Request of Smethwyke for 60l. more on account of the estate of Tho. Woodson, deceased, at Bantam, denied, Woodson's accounts being not yet come home. Ordered to imprest to Capt. Slade 300l. on account, there being near 600l. being due to him. Opinion of Sir Hugh Hammersley that the high prices of goods set at the last General Court will hinder the subscription to transport; resolved to call a General Court at the Court of Sales this day senight to consider the business. Ordered that Mountney pay Mrs. Collins 55l. 10s. for mending 74 barrels of old powder, and 10s. for mending the waste water gate at the powder mills. Bill of 2l. 9s. for fetching Robert Hewitt up from Erith, presented by the Under Marshall of the Admiralty, and payment ordered out of Hewitt's wages. Freight of 2½ cwt. of coarse myrrh remitted to Walter Clinch and John Cooke, and on 1½ cwt. of lignum asphaltum to John Parks, bound out Chirurgeon of the Expedition. 2½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 64–66.] |
Oct. 13.
Spahan. |
612. Agent Wm. Gibson, Wm. Fall, and Philip Dickinson to the East India Company. Their last was by the Hollanders' conveyance by way of Aleppo of 2nd July. On 20th July came to hand the Company's letter of 25th Sept. 1633, with transcript of another of 24th May. Presume when their Worships have received their letters dispeeded last year, they will be better opinionated of their diligence; but two of the four expresses sent last year miscarried in the deserts, one killed out-right by Arabian thieves, the other two Arabians, dispeeded from Bagdad by the Shabunder, never heard of to this day, who it is conceived missed their watering places in the desert as many do, unless extraordinarily well acquainted with the ways, and died of thirst. The other two, are long since advised from the Consul at Aleppo, arrived in safety; wherein were sent double copies of all formers. Their Worships may rest assured for the future "if God bless all directed to you" they shall not have cause to blame them any more for omission. This is the fourth express sent this year since their coming from port, and one or two more may be expected before they go down again, which they presume will be sufficient. Would willingly use conveyance by way of Constantinople, but from experience of the
late arrival of their letters of 6th Jan. 1632–3, have little stomack to make use of it, besides now by reason of wars between the Turk and some Christian Princes in those parts, those ways are grown unpassable. Have therefore made the Shabundar of Bagdad their friend, who can furnish conveyance thence to Aleppo better than any they can procure, and sent him this year a small present of 5 or 6 tomans. to continue him so, having received divers letters from him proffering any such courtesies. But this conveyance is a man that has gone divers times and never miscarried and goes quite through to Aleppo; next time purpose sending a familiar friend, a poor Christian born in Bagdad, who has promised to go through with the greatest expedition, to show his thankfulness for their love. The want of 155 lbs. near upon four whole loads in the silk received out of the Blessing, "drives us to admiration," and having said so much formerly concerning this point, are now even at their wits' ends what reason to yield. "God is witness to their endeavours for prevention of the abuse, but not prevailing what shall we do." No means possible shall be left unassayed to redress this mystical wrong which the Company have so long complained of. Hope to gain some satisfaction for the two bales of stones and wool, for having complained in their petition, the party was lighted on in Court and had in examination. The 77 bales in which this abuse proceeded were proved to be Mullaymbeage's and underhand sold to us by that merchant as his own, but from which of these the fraud proceeds is not yet known, but if their linguist cannot drive one or both to satisfaction, and their Worships send back the trash as promised, will carry it to Court, and show it to some the owners will not be very willing he should. Now for the allegations of the two parties the Company have examined Walter Mountford and James Watts as conceived that the wrong must needs proceed from those that had charge of the silk at port; arguments in favour of this supposition; yet God forbid they should say Mountford was faulty, his carriage here showing him to be a man of another stamp. Wonder they avouched the stones and baked earth to be those of Ormuz and Gombroon, when the stones are the very same almost in every place, and for the unburnt bricks all the houses in the country are built with no other except noblemen's and others of extraordinary fashion. In fine let us possess your Worships of a better opinion of your servants, for whosoever should practice such villany it were pity of his life but they would come to knowledge thereof. The fraud hath proceeded from those that sold it, and the neglect in not opening all the bales as well as some. Engage their salaries to make good whatever the Company shall suffer hereafter. The good usage of merchants made them too confident but it shall do so no more. Explain that wrong numbering the bales was the reason the 77 bales could not be distinguished from others sent for the account of the first voyage. Their accounts of 1629 and 1630 were two years agone sent for Surat, and will long ere this have come to their hands and their tardance caused through taking copies there, which they could not do then for want of penmen; but those for 1631,
1632, and 1633, shall be sent directly, if any ship depart hence, if not in double to Surat; those for this year will scarce be finished by reason of the Accountant Fall's much indisposition unto health. Take notice of their Worships' intendments for this place by next ships; "God bless it hither." Almost all Indian commodities remain still in general disesteem; southern are most requested. Have sent a list to Surat, of the quantity, quality and price the several sorts bear, and doubt not by next ships to be furnished. First notice the great alteration in their state since last advice, for this young King not yet satisfied with blood spilling has cut off four more of the greatest of his nobility, amongst whom was his Lord Chancellor, here called Etteman Dowlat. The reason as report gives it, was the neglect of one Duke that had the guard of the King's person, who though often warned presumed so much on his greatness, that at last the King sent for his head, at which instant the Chancellor being present in a fair term somewhat withstood, saying 'twas pity he should cut off a man for so small a fault, withall remembering him of the much blood he had spilt already; which the King took in such disdain that he should have his command by anyone contradicted, that on a sudden with his own hands he cut Etteman Dowlat on the head in two places, which done he commanded another Duke standing by to cut it quite off and throw it with his body out of doors, which was suddenly effected. Another great personage "alyanated" to the Chancellor by marriage, being in presence something grieved at the tragedy by some words he uttered, which the King taking notice of, said because you love him so well you shall go ere along with him, and so commanded his head to be struck off also; a second seeing such woeful spectacles for fear forsook the place, which the King observing commanded him to be called back, and without further examination or wherefore, caused his eyes to be pulled out, and his nose, tongue, and ears to be cut off, with which torture the party in few hours after died. All which done, he commanded the other Duke's head to be fetched him, who was found in a hot-house, washing himself, and was not suffered to cover his nakedness before they executed him. As ill fortune would have it, none was found so fit by the King for this place of Etteman Dowlatt as this villain their enemy Mirza Tuckey; but by report the King said to him; "leave your revenges on those you take to be your enemies and do them no injustice, and let me hear no complaints of you; if I do I shall pay you with the same wages I did your predecessor." Besides their linguist writes that the King in his hearing charged him to give them all content, especially in timely giving them their silk; and some two days since wrote Mirza Tuckey by one of his chief servants proffering all courtesies, and that if they wanted ought they should make it known to his servant, who should accommodate them; their linguist writes also that he is become very courteous to him and says that for all we have strived so against him as an enemy, yet we shall find him our great friend, and for our bad to him he will do us good; which if he do, he will differ from all the Moors that ever they were acquainted with. To do them
apparent wrong he dares not, but if opportunity offer, fear he may do it covertly and may find it when they come to make their new contract; but it shall go hard but they will gain him their friend next time they meet, and have made an introduction already with his servant. To make part of their promise good to ships arriving at Bandar in heats, on 23rd July dispeeded towards port, Mr. Honywood and two more English with 210 bales of silk, all they were able to attain to. Since which have received only 52 more, which they resolve to keep till they receive some better quantity, and then carry down at the usual time of year. Mr. Gove writes from Ghilan he dares warrant the receipt of 600 more bales this year; but their linguist puts them in hopes of upwards of 1,000, for Mirza Tuckye is to give them 500, and the Governor of Resht in Ghilan 540, which men have been long since sent to encompass. If the silk sent to Bandar be not enough for the full lading of some ship from Surat, it were not amiss, as they have written, if she were sent hither, to be fully laden for England with this expected silk. The silk sent and what they have in house, have opened and reweighed every bale, and find the weigher has rather wronged the King than them, and if it be not found so at home, both for good condition and weight, will then say it is impossible for them ever to gain their Worships right while the world stands; which course will continue. Hear as yet no news from port of any ship's arrival, but daily expect some. The Hollanders have two ships long since directly out of Christendom, which landed only 36 bales broad cloth, but 20 chests money, in lieu whereof they have dispeeded hence 300 bales received from the King, and 100 encompassed with ready moneys, which they still persevere in, giving great prices as 40 to 42 tomans the load, so fear in time these people will only deal for ready money; these ships are to proceed for Surat, by which have written to the President and Council. Have now on their parts fully accomplished the last contract of 32,000 tomans both for goods and moneys, and heartily wish they had the same conditions again to put off the rest of their commodities, in which they are too sensible of the Company's loss. There are now remaining 940 pieces broad cloth, good and bad, 650 Northern kersies, 150 Devonshire kersies, 96 perpetuanas, and almost 2,000 chests of tin, besides 1,600 more that are to be turned back on their hands from the King as formerly advised, all which with what they mean to supply by the next ships, will ask a round sum to comply with a third part according to their last contract; the utmost they can yield thereto will not exceed 1,000 tomans, which is far short of what we shall want; have written hereof to Surat but fear they shall have small relief thence, and if not completely furnished and with an overplus will not prevail. The cloths sent these two last years very well liked, but many found much defective by stains and rots, for which they are fain to abate sometimes great matters to be rid of them. Sold last year upwards of 100 bales, and doubt not to do near as much this; the prices, if the cloth be good conditioned, bettering that the King gives, but there are no monied men who can deal for any quantity, only petty parcels of three or four cloths, else 'twere better dealing with them than the
King. The sales would be much quickened could they procure only such colours as are here esteemed, for in every bale for one good colour there are two bad, which these people very much dislike; they would have all reds, greens, straw, pink, and violets; others they will scarce look on except at a very base rate. If the Company could afford these colours should not fail to put off 400 or 500 cloths in the market yearly. Doubt not of current payment very shortly of the debt of the Khan of Shiraz, here being one of the King's slaves that is to pay them 300 tomans thereof, but keeps it, still thinking to make them yield to his demand of a bribe, but hope to receive that ere long from Court shall make him stand to their courtesy. The rest is to be procured by him likewise, have promised when all is paid in he shall not find them unthankful; have slighted him so that he is in a quandary, and sends word they shall have it tomorrow or next day, and prays them not to write to Court. The Hollanders, for all they visited not the Court this year with their persons, have done it with their bribes sent by their linguist to the value of upwards of 500 tomans, 125 whereof to the King, and another 100 in gold to this new Etteman Dowlatt, the rest to other great persons; but think they will receive only their pains for their cost, their linguist writing the Dutch are not to receive above 40 loads of silk more this year. The Company's share of customs this year in Gombroon came to 341 tomans, which is something better than the former year, but would have been twice as much had they received their rights; but such is their dealing with us, are fain to get what they can; hope for some counsel what to do for redress of this wrong. Have by chance long since put off Capt. Miller's tobacco (in margin, Capt. Milward's tobacco) at an unexpected rate, upwards of 6s. the lb.; but let not this encourage him to any further adventure, presume it is enough to serve the country these seven years, and the party who bought it would willingly be rid of it at half the price. Reason why he cannot yet perfect the account of the nine barrels sent. Enclose copies of their consultations and directions, showing the reason of Gibson's not proceeding to Court this year, and that they have not been neglectful to endeavour what they could, howsoever it pleased God to cross them, but hope yet to save their credits and give their Worships content. Signed by Wm. Gibson, Wm. Fall, and Phillip Dickinson. "Mr. Fall is very ill at present" Endorsed, "Reed overland by Aleppo and Mersellis 12 May, 1635." 10½ pp. [O. C., Vol. XV., No. 1535.] |
| Oct. 15–17. |
613. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Letter read from Andrewes, Master of the Expedition; Younge ordered to provide for said ship 6 hhds. of fresh meat to preserve her store whilst riding in the Downs. Bill of 1l. 19s. 6d. for dinner for Mr. Governor and three others at Hampton Court, when they preferred the Company's petition concerning the proceedings and manner of departure of Carpentier and the other Dutch Commissioners, ordered to be paid, also Acton's bill of 7l. for law charges. Mr. Clarke's opinion read, that the patent lately granted to [Wm.] Bolton [see ante, No. 581] for the sole making of flat indigo out of indigo dust, and of rich indigo into
flat, is contrary to law, mischievous to the State, and prejudicial to the Company; resolved to attend Mr. Attorney-General with their reasons, and desire his favour for the calling in of said patent. 50l. ordered to be imprested to Jay, Master of the Mary, on account of his wages and debts. John Spiller's bill of 1l. 16s. 8d. for going into the Downs to Younge, ordered to be paid. Relation of Mr. Governor that he, with Mr. Deputy, Alderman Abdi, and Mr. Mun, yesterday presented to the King at Hampton Court the Company's petition remonstrating the proceedings of the Dutch Commissioners, and the manner of their departure after five years abode here, without concluding anything in the treaty, which his Majesty read and sent to Mr. Secretary Coke, who promised to procure a gracious answer, his Majesty being very sensible of the business; Mr. Secretary also told them he had conference lately with the Lord Treasurer concerning his Majesty's patent to the Scottish Company to trade into the East Indies, and that they had had speech with the King, who, being informed of the prejudice that would redound to his customs and to the Company, told Mr. Governor he was persuaded that grant would be forthwith recalled and suppressed. Freight remitted to Margaret, wife of John Shilling, on 120 lbs. of "sal armoniack," and to Capt. Hall on about 200 lbs. of myrrh. |
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Oct. 17. Henry Sill's account presented, and Sir Wm. Savile, son-in-law to the Lord Keeper, pressing for an end of the business on behalf of the executor, the Court, out of respect to that noble Lord, intreated the Committees of the Counting House with the Auditors to examine Sill's accounts and report how they find them. Fifty pounds ordered to be imprested to Mr. Woodall to provide chirurgeons' chests for next year's fleet for Surat. Petition of the mother of Wm. Burt, late Agent in Persia, deceased, for the remain of her son's estate; answered that if it were again in their hands they would not so easily part with the 500l. they had paid already, his estate coming short by many thousands to satisfy what he owes the Company. Resolved at the Court of Sales in the afternoon to fall the prices of pepper and indigo, for they are not underwritten for as expected, and to set the pepper at 17½d., the rich indigo at 5s. 6d., and the flat at 6s., 6s. 4d. being offered by two Committees for a lot of flat, and 5s. 3d. for rich. Payment ordered to Capt. Ditchfield, executor to Barbar, deceased, of 266l., being, with 300l. formerly paid, the full of his wages, the rest to be detained till the return of the next ships, there being some doubts in the Mary's accounts and certain objections against him for private trade. 1½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 67–69.] |
| Oct. 17. |
614. Minutes of a General Court and Court of Sales of East India Company. Relation by Mr. Governor of some passages which were in agitation at the last General Court, and that the order for pepper to be taken out on division at 18d. per lb. and rich indigo at 6s. hath not taken the effect expected, by reason as is conceived that the price of the indigo is too high. After being argued and disputed and put to the question, it was re-established and confirmed that
the turning over the three Persia voyages into the Joint Stock upon the former valuations is absolute and not to be revoked, and that the adventurers in the three voyages shall take out their divisions in pepper and indigo at the prices of 15d. and 6s. per lb. was rejected by erection of hands, and resolved that any adventurer may underwrite and take out such quantity of pepper as he shall please at 17½d. per lb. for transportation and 18d. for the town garbled, at 5–6 months, discounting thereout, if they think good, their own capital in the third Persia voyage. List of goods sold by the candle, with names of purchasers and the prices; these include Malabar pepper, cotton yarn, silk, and all the indigo, mace, dust of cloves, and rice. 3½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 70–73.] |
| Oct. 22–24. |
615. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Capt. Rainsborow and Messrs. Salmon, Graves, and Southam intreated to join with Swanley and Steevens in surveying the Exchange, and report whether she be fit to be repaired for another voyage, and the charge. The ridge tiles and other parts of the ropehouse at Woolwich, blown off by the late violent wind, to be forthwith repaired. Gratuity of 20s. out of the poor box to Wm. Humphry, hurt by a fall into the William's hold. The launching of the William to be deferred, and all diligence used to expedite the carpenters' and joiners' work, which can better be done in dock than afloat; and to bring the Mary into dock when the William is afloat. Examinations taken before Sir Hugh Hammersley read, which give hope to find out those that embezzled the two bales of silk out of the Mary; and the names of some suspected to be presented to Sir Hugh, that so they may be furttfer questioned. Securities approved for 500 barrels of indigo, bought by John Langham, 271 bales of silk bought by Alderman Garwaie and for 350 bags of pepper. The dam head of the pond at Chilworth agreed to be repaired by Robert Mullins for 20l.; ordered to receive 10l. Freight remitted to Wm. Morris, gunner in the Mary, on aloes succatrina, and galbanum, and to Thomas Rogers on China roots. Suit of John Norris, returned in the Mary, for payment of his wages and clearing his account, but being charged with private trade brought from Surat to Bantam in the James, he confessed it was the first and last time he ever offended, and desired, in regard of his good service and small wages, and that the Company had made 70 per cent. profit by the goods as he alleged, and that he was out of his money above two years, to deal favourably with him; he seemed to be ignorant who were the other proprietors, but persuaded himself Mr. Rastell had no share. The Court made known to him that this private trade was the cause the James lost her monsoon, to the Company's prejudice at least 20,000l., and they must not let this pass without due reparation, but deferred the business till the arrival of the Dolphin, having not yet an account from Bantam how those goods were sold. Request of Henry Glascock to be possessed of 18 jars of borax brought home by him as private trade, but not being able to give satisfaction how he came by so great an estate, ordered that the goods be brought up to the East India House to be weighed and viewed. |
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Oct. 24. James Martyn and Rowland Wilson allowed as security for 3,500l. worth of calicoes sold them. Request of Richard Andrews concerning the estate of Thomas Woodson, late Agent at Bantam, deceased, and sometime his servant who owed him a great sum, that they would pay no more out of the estate until he be satisfied; answered that what they had done was on letters of administration aud Smethwyke's bond to save them harmless, but assured him they intend to part with no more until they had satisfied themselves, being informed he died indebted to the Company. Letter read from Sir Wm. Russell on behalf of Tho. Smith, a late servant of his, that they would pay one-third of his wages to his brother, John Fuller; the Court upon this occasion observed how exceedingly they are abused by divers of their Factors, who for the most part indebted before coming into their service, by these and such like means get their wages out of the Company's hands, and die indebted to them, or make over their estates private in the Pursers books, and consign them to their friends in England, whereby is nothing left in the Company's hands for their satisfaction; and, for instance, Ellam produced bills to the value of 900l. privately made over by Skibbowe and paid to Messrs. Slany and Fison, and since Skibbowe is found much indebted to the Company, with little or no estate in the Company's hands to satisfy the same. For prevention of this abuse it was propounded to inhibit the making over of moneys in the Pursers books, and by no means to pay any wages more than one-third in the country till the return or notice of the death of their Factors; advised that Slany and Fison be sent for to know whether the 900l. was received in trust for Skibbowe, that the Company may take advice whether it may not be recovered. Renewed suit of Henry Glascock to be possessed of his 18 jars of borax, offering 2,000l. bond, to pay freight and be liable for any accusation against him, but the Court finding in the Black Book many complaints against him for private trade, resolved to detain it, expecting at next Court to be truly informed of the value and weight. Securities allowed for 100 bags garbled pepper. Ordered that Fotherby send up this day senight to be examined and punished, six labourers at Blackwall, who in the night went aboard the Mary and broke open her hold. Osmond Smith, now returned in the Mary, demanded what he could say concerning the loss by the Rashboots between Swally and Surat; answered that he and others were robbed, and he lost all his estate to the value of 500l.; that Wish [Wyche], Mountney, Joyce, Clement Dunscome, and Thos. Smith had their parts of private trade therein, the loss being 1,400l. or 1,500l.; and that the 10,000l. mamothes recovered on complaint to the Governor of Surat was received of Nath. Mountney, but whether put to the Company's account or not, he knows not; that he got the 500l. by buying rice of the country people at Armagon, where he got two for one in six months, but never adventured a pennyworth in the Company's ships, that he is come home as poor a man as he went out. Being asked, he said he thought the Company would do very ill to dissolve the fort and factory at Armagon, for their Bantam trade could not subsist
without it, for from thence and the parts adjacent they have all their paintings which serve from the southward, and if once they leave it the Dutch will possess themselves of it, having long since made large offers for it. Securities allowed for 400 bags of ungarbled pepper. Acton's bill of 4l. 6s. for law charges to be paid. Two months pay yearly of John Gwilliams's wages ordered to be paid to his aged grandmother in Wales, according to his letter of attorney to Richard Swinglehurst. 5½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 73–78.] |
Oct. 25.
Masulipatam. |
616. Agent Tho. Joyce and Nath. Wyche to the East India Company. By the Swan sent for Bantam last December, gave the Agent and Council there a particular reply to the Company's letter by that ship of 29th Sept. 1632, but conceive it pertinent to give a brief rehearse of same, and then to acknowledge the Jewel's safe arrival in this road with her rich cargazoone 29th June last. The Swan anchored at Armagon 13th June 1633, and landed in gold, coral, and lead to the value of 2,458l.; arrival at Masulipatam 19th, and landed to the amount of 7,588l.; there was sent to Bantam, on a Dutch ship, two chests of Rs. appointed for that place 2,000l., and the remainder, amounting to 10,772l., was dispeeded for Bengala. The Company's order for investing 12,000l. of this into goods befitting the southward factories, was as punctually performed as these barren times would admit of; but their utmost endeavours would not amount to more than 21,934 pagodas. The cloths required for England, as long cloth, morees, perenlla, sallampoores, and ginghams, have been these 20 months so scarce and at such excessive prices, exceeding the former 50 to 100 per cent., as last year they durst hardly meddle therewith, fear they will not be able to supply the Jewel for Bantam with half what is listed. Presume Mr. Norris, if arrived, has shown a reason of this dearth's beginning, which was an extraordinary drought for a whole year, that doubled the price of cotton wool, next year fell such abundance of rain as spoilt great part of the corn and most of the cotton wool, bringing the price to full 12d. the English lb.; this year has proved very temperate with great signs of a plentiful harvest in March or April, hope it will bring cotton and cloth to the easy prices formerly sold at. Two of the three Factors sent on the Swan, Bannister and Litler, continued in her to Bangala, where the first died, and then the other shortly after his arrival; the third, Budd, was dispeeded for Bantam on same vessel. Now come to acknowledge the Company's letter by the Jewel of 25th Oct. 1633. The whole cargazoone received in safety, some small damage to the broad cloth by moths excepted; the letters for Surat and Bantam were suddenly dispeeded, the former overland, the latter, with his Majesty's commission, by ship Hart from Surat. Hope to send the Jewel for Macassar and the coast by the fine ot next month with the 12,000l., and by that time 12 months to have the goods for Europe in a full readiness. The remaining 4,000l. or 5,000l. ordained for Persia is now, with a far greater sum, in a fair readiness for that hopeful trade. Were not the times so extremely averse, durst promise to match those Baroach and Brodera baftaes sent, but till cotton falls coarse cloth cannot be cheap. A bale or
two of the narrows are now in action and will cost 3s. 4d. the piece to clear for England, and, therefore, intend them for Persia, where such cloth, their list says, sells at very high rates. Half those musters sent into Bengala on the Jewel, where cloth is wondrous cheap; and if the Factors there can induce those people to the making of the like sizes, doubt not to send some samples by the Palsgrave if she sail from Bantam in March or April next, as projected. Presume they are informed by Mr. Norris and their own letters, of the many reasons that "impulsed the sending of your people into the Bay of Bengala;" the scarcity of cloth the prime motion for a voyage only, but after more deliberation a continual residence was computed beneficial. The trade betwixt Masulipatam and Bengala in rice, sugar, butter, and other provisions will raise an able overplus to quit the great expense of factories of Masulipatam and Armagon. Secondly, it affords store of white cloth at cheap rates, suitable for England, Persia, and the southwards, though the Swan's invoice last year gave no great testimony thereof, being odd ends, scraped together by unskillful buyers in a place they were then altogether unacquainted with. It yields store of exceeding good powder sugar not above 2½ per English lb.; intend for Persia by the Discovery as much as can be got, and some for Bantam to help lade the Palsgrave. Gumlac on sticks to be had in Bengala very cheap, and is much required as well for Macassar and Persia as for England. Silk may be bought yearly to a great sum; the Mary had a sample. Divers other things it affords for Persia, as shashes, stuffs, allyiahs, fine white cloth, and the like; hope in short time to give such profitable content as shall persuade your good liking for a continuance of that factory. What goods are vendible in the Bengala factory experience must tutor them. Most of the broad cloth and lead sent on the Swan sent thither for trial, and, through mortality of Factors, lay in Balasore, the port town, till April, when was then dispeeded to Puttana, a month's journey into the country, so as it seems no great hopes of selling such commodities near the sea side; forbear sending any of the Jewel's good's that way. Spice of all sorts sells there to good profit, but the Dutch Freemen from Batavia, and Portugals from Macassar, so stuffed the market last year as now little is required; hereafter believe the Dutch Company will do the like. Tobacco, iron, tin, and sundry other petty goods yearly carried thither on junks from hence, and, if encouraged, will do the like. If the Company resolve the prosecution of this trade, very requisite to send two small pinnaces to remain on this coast, of 80 to 120 snos, to draw little water and to carry 12 or 14 guns. The Dutch, never without three or four such vessels, which trade from port to port or are employed as men-of-war, never idle, and clear all their great charges on this coast. There is no thought of trade into the Bay without them, the greater ships riding so far from the shore, and the King of Arracan's jellines, or small boats of war, ever scouting between, so as neither goods nor provisions can be brought off without pinnaces of some defence, which may go up the rivers for same without fear. To this end resolved by consultation that a
pinnace should he built or bought in the bay, and the Governor of Balasore having a small vessel on the stocks of some 100 tons not half finished, sold her to your servants, who built her up as fast as possible, filled her with sugar, rice, and other provisions, and sent her hither; but the monsoon took her short, and 15 leagues off they unladed her and transported part of her goods by boats, and the rest, 177 fardels of sugar, by a little pinnace borrowed of the Danes, which was in sight of the town overset in the night, the sugar lost, and three Danes, one English, and a black drowned. Their own pinnace Thomas returned to the bay. Another small frigate of 30 tons, named the Marigold, bought in Bengala for 900 rup., and did very acceptable service last year in lading and watering the Swan; hope she and her consort will act the like part this year for the Jewel and Speedwell, now in the bay. The mortality of their people is the alone object that opposes the action at Bengala; last year there died five of the six Factors left there, whose rooms were supplied by four spared from Surat on the Hart; are told one is since dead. Most of the Swan's men visited there with sickness, and many died; the Thomas likewise buried four of her small company, and most of the survivors lie dangerously weak. The chief occasion is doubtless intemperance. Cartwright's letters aver no less, for the place abounds with rack and fruits, which immoderately taken cannot but engender surfeits. Hope those employed there hereafter will practice a "more warier diet," and live to report better of the country. The resettling of their affairs here in the kingdom of Golconda has been often aimed at, but never put in practice till last year, and then brought to a happy estate. For the course of their proceedings with the King, and the manner of their entertainment at Court, refer to their letters to Surat of 25th Jan. and 28th Feb. last; how graciously his Majesty admitted them to his presence six times, what honour he did them on behalf of their nation, and with what content and extraordinary freedom he gave them leave to depart, with an ample firman for quiet trade in all parts of his kingdom without paying any duties whatsoever. The charge has been very great, but make no question it will be thought wondrous well bestowed; for in a letter to the Agent and Council at Bantam by the Hart of 11th July last, they not only gave a sufficient reason for the expense of this large sum, but made it plainly appear that same would be saved by the customs that were due out of the Jewel's cargazoone. In said letter to Bantam the Company will find how preposterous a thing it would be for them to buy goods now in Masulipatam as heretofore, for let them buy where they would, there would be nothing saved in the price by the time the goods came to this Custom House, so many duties were paid almost in every petty village they were to pass through. But now all these taxes being abrogated, it highly concerns the Company to take the same course the Dutch have done ever since they agreed with this King's father for their general customs at 3,000 pag. per annum, to settle factories abroad in the country, where they live at reasonable charge, buy their cloth at the best hand, and transport it hither clear of all charges, porterage only excepted. Have likewise
trod this track for the short time they have enjoyed the King's firman. A factory ought to be established at Viraacheron, 40 miles north of Masulipatam, a town not only mostly inhabited with weavers, but, by reason of the Dutch residence, environed with many other villages of weavers; and from thence must they expect most of their coarse cloth for Eurupe and the southwards; but there is wanting a convenient house, which may be handsomely built of timber, to safeguard their money and goods, for 80l. or 100l. Pettapoli must likewise be continued, chiefly for buying red cloths, which no other place affords, and for the finer cloths required for the southward. Are in suit to the King for the sole government of a small town five miles from Masulipatam, which, if they can but obtain by firman, will after a year or two clear the Company 1,000l. per annum, fit them quickly with store of cloth of all sorts, and add honour to their nation. Have the rule of it for this year since May last, paying 600 pag. as 'twas usually set for to other men, and in this short time it has more than doubled in magnitude, so fast do the poor people flock thither from Moorish tyranny, and twice as fast would it increase were it but made sure to the English Factors by the King's seal. In Golconda it is very pertinent likewise to keep a continual residence, firstly for the sale of all Europe, southward and Persian goods, which may be transported thither in 10 or 12 days without danger with a convenient guard clear of all duties, which amount to 30 per cent., and there sold to far greater profit than can be ever expected in Masulipatam; secondly, it will be a main stay to the quiet of their business to have an able man at all times so near the King's elbow; but what yet more precisely presses the settling of their people in this city is the investments for Persia, the greatest part of the goods most proper for that trade being made in towns adjacent; and it is far more beneficial to buy them at best hand than at Masulipatam after they have paid at least 30 per cent. custom, besides the seller's profit; which will yearly amount to a large sum in laying out 15,000l. or 20,000l., and they hope to induce the Company to invest yearly as much about Golconda. "To keep in frame" the hopeful pass their trade is now brought to, it is very requisite the Company remember this King yearly with some acceptable present to the value of about 100l., particulars whereof are set down on a paper enclosed, the chiefest whereof is Canary wine, which is of better esteem among the nobility than five times its value in anything else. Must not do their true friend Elchibeague, a Persian born, but now a chief peer of this kingdom, the wrong to pass in silence the unspeakable courtesy received at his hands throughout this business at Golconda and since. He entertained them in his own house, by the King's leave, who had ordained them a stately lodging elsewhere, took upon him the pleading of their cause, continually accompanied them to his Majesty's presence, gave them diet for themselves, servants, and cattle all the time they were at Court, saved the Company at least 500 or 600 pag. due to the King's officers at such times as they were invested, would never let them ride abroad without 50 to 100 of his own horsemen to attend them, presented the Company's
Agent with a stately Persian horse valued at 150l., and an amberchee, or neck jewel, worth at least 50l., which were both given to the King the same day, who returned a fair horse of this country breed of a far inferior price, and was their mainest help for the procuration of their immunities. What he received when they departed the list of presents will demonstrate; sent him twice the value, but he returned the rest. Will be very brief about Armagon, the fore-mentioned employments having partly kept them from a knowledge of that place, and the Agent intending to sail thither the beginning of December, when both the southward and Persia ships will, they hope, be cleared from this coast. Divers opinions touching the continuance of that fort; confess it was scarce worth the name when they first beheld it. No man can acquaint the Company better with its true state than Mr. Norris, who lived "in't" many months, and questionless saw some great defect, or would never have given the Nague of that country 1,000 pag. for license to build it stronger. Capt. Altham, without their order, has now brought it to a somewhat better pass; he pulled down the small, weak fort first built, and raised another with a round body of far greater strength and altitude, mounted with 12 pieces of ordnance, and able, by report, to defend itself against any sudden assault by the poor black soldiers of that country, but whether fit to repulse a siege, have yet to learn. The honour wholly redounds to Capt. Altham, the charge amounts to pag. Armagon 1,000 and odd. The Agent and Council at Bantam best able to resolve the Company of the beneficial trade of that factory, for all gains are by the sale of goods to the southwards, which vend to good profit, for at Bantam they have required to the value of 8,000l. this year, which is more by far than we can fit them withal, unless we should slack our investments in this place. Are "firmly conceited" that it is very requisite the Company should not only continue that fortification, but likewise build a fencible brick wall about it, for the repair of the present mud fence will cost as much, Are very sensible how much the situation of it so near this place awes these people, and was a main step to the freedom they now rejoice in; and whenever demolished it will give a "vild" shake to the peace of the Masulipatam trade. Some aver it were better to keep a continuance of small shipping here to curb these people on any occasion of discontent, than to be at the charge of this fort, but affirm that both are very requisite, and that the one cannot conveniently subsist without the other; for if the fort be forsaken and they quarrel with this King, where dare they set foot ashore upon any part of Coromandel to victual or water the Company's small vessels; or should there be difference 'twixt the fort and the Nague, how can it be relieved without the assistance of shipping? Therefore conclude that as well the fort as the small shipping are wondrous necessary, and that the trade of the latter may clear the charge of both. As to the trade from Masulipatam to Persia, it has been urged by divers letters from Surat that the transporting of freight goods hence to Gombroon cannot choose but be a great hindrance to their southward and Europe investments, but they are now better informed by our substantial reasons to the
contrary. Maintain there is not in the least kind a jot of disadvantage to any of the Company's affairs. Conceive that 20,000l. may be yearly invested for the trade between Persia and Masulipatam; but it must be sent in gold coin or bullion, so as to arrive in May or June, and give time before December for investment, as well in Bengala as these parts, in fitting commodities for sale in Persia. Make no question to perform what they have herein promised were it for triple the sum, for they are to deal only in fine goods, such as in four or five months may be procured to an extraordinary amount, witness the abundance of rich bales yearly brought by Moors, &c. about Golconda and transported on the Company's ships for Gombroon; but admit that through any unexpected accident they should not be able to invest all this great sum, the remainder will be never the further from employment in Persia than if sent by way of Surat. Intend this year to make trial of 10,000l. that way, 5,000l. whereof the Jewel brought, and the rest they hope to receive for freight goods in the Discovery, sent from Surat, at their earnest request, for transportation of Moors' goods. The whole proceeds of this investment the President and Council desire to have left in Persia at their disposure, to help clear their great debt in Surat. And because this advice cannot arrive timely for their Worships to fit them with means to go on with this trade the following year, have intreated the President and Council to send 8,000l. or 10,000l. of the money expected on the next fleet for Surat, which the ship appointed to carry freight goods from this place may take in from the Europe fleet at the Isles of Comoro, and be here with it next September; meanwhile can be buying goods for Persia with part of the money the Company promise to send them direct. The Discovery, with freight goods for Persia, and the Jewel for Bantam, shall both receive dispatch by the fine of next month. The Speedwell arrived from Bantam 12th Aug. last, with cloves, sugar, tortoise shells, &c. to the amount of 11,275 ryals of 8, which vessel, by reason of the abundance of people and store of freight goods awaiting passage to Persia, they intend shall accompany the Discovery to that place, with all the sugar, part of the gumlac, and other coarse goods, to be forthwith sold and the proceeds returned on her by April or May next on the account of this factory. "At her back arrival" think to send her into Bengala, where in a dry dock she may be new sheathed and trimmed at a small charge, and sent back with rice, &c., which will clear all her expense, and then she will be fit for another voyage to Persia next year. The pinnace Thomas is ordained to stay in Bengala till middle of Jan., to take in what cloth, cotton yarn, sugar, and gumlac can possibly be got ready, and then repair to Masulipatam and Armagon to fill up with cloth, and be dispeeded for Bantam 1st Feb., that she may arrive timely to lade the Palsgrave for England. Will entertain the pinnace Marigold for some months betwixt this and the bay, to acquaint themselves thoroughly with that part of the coast, and try whether it be possible to ply to Bengala against the monsoon. Most of the cloth and lead that came on the Swan was sent into Bengala, whence they have no notice of its sale, unless lately of part of the
lead at 10 rupees the Jahanguir maund. Her small parcel of coral sold to good profit in Masulipatam at 45 pag. this maund, about 28 lbs. English, and in Golconda at 50 pag.; and because more was desired the President and Council supplied them by the Hart with 10 chests of coral, 10 broad cloths, and 260 pigs of lead, all which, with those landed from the Jewel, were lately dispeeded for Golconda in charge of Factors, Thos. Rogers amf Aaron Baker, of whose arrival without the least disturbance on the way or demand of any duties they have notice, and of their courteous entertainment in Elchibeague's house, who will not suffer them to lodge elsewhere, but know not yet what proffers they have had for their goods; yet presume on this new trade at Golconda to intreat the Company by the next ships to send 10 chests of fine coral from 6s. to 14s. the lb., five chests from 3s. to 6s., 20 pieces fine stammels of a deep colour, which is more looked to than fineness, from 16l. to 18l. the piece, one piece fine green, 300 great pigs of lead, four chests of Rs., and what gold the Company please. Most of the Swan's cloth was "very much defected" by moths, but the Jewel's seems reasonably well conditioned outwardly. The Swan's gold likewise found so dead a vent as they were forced to run at interest all the year long to buy goods and defray charges; but this year have delivered the greatest part of the Jewel's gold on contracts of cloth for Persia and Bantam, so as there is none remaining, and a far greater quantity "would now off at good rates." Matters being thus settled, and the trade daily increasing and spreading into many unwonted limbs, greatly need a supply of able men fit to undergo each his several employment, for divers of these would gladly, after so many years' absence, re-enjoy the sight of their parents and country. Agent Thomas Joyce, having served on his last contract near upon seven years at very small means, only attends the firm settling of those new actions, and then intreats leave to resign. Nathaniel Wyche, on his way homeward in the Hart, was intreated to accept the accounts in Masulipatam till some other might arrive. Ralph Cartwright, chief in Bengala, earnestly intreated license to depart last year, but was persuaded to stay till this time, and now again have desired his abode for other 12 months, but have not his answer yet. Some others desire to be homeward, but must abide till their rooms can be supplied. Enclose a list of the Factors here, and of how many are required for this coast and Bengala. Lament to hear in what a weak state the ships from Bantam yearly arrive on the coast of England, and think a great part might with much more conveniency be dispeeded from Masulipatam, where they might be fitted at very cheap rates, with all things tending to the preservation of men's healths, and be sent as timely as if they were to sail directly from the southwards. Intend to write about this to the Agent and Council at Bantam by the Jewel. Are persuaded the Discovery must next year be sent to the southwards for her lading, for there is no hopes of any quantity of goods for her in Surat, and will be appointed to touch here to take in goods for England. If the Agent at Bantam should appoint her stay here, and send two small ships with 350 or 400 tons of pepper and cloves to put into her, would
make no doubt to procure the rest of her lading in cloth, sugar, cotton yarn, and gumlac, and dispeed her for England by middle of Dec. at furthest; one of these two should be presently returned with goods to be sent for Macassar with the first of the monsoon, and the other either attend the remainder of that investment or be employed for Persia. Last year the Swan's boat, sent on shore for water, was surprised in Bengala by some of the King of Arracan's gelliaes of war, three men killed, and the rest carried to Piplee, in Bengala, where a Portugal Captain from Macassar redeemed them for 400 rup., which was presently sent him from Balasore, and their people returned to the ship. For which affront to force satisfaction are resolved to make "lawful purchase" of whatsoever junks they can meet with belonging to Arracan. Some of those vessels were in this road last year, and made all means to procure their passes for quiet return. But would not be drawn thereunto until they had paid the 400 rup., when we granted them our "coules" for passage to Arracan only, but next monsoon shall attend them again on this coast. The Speedwell arriving before the Agent and Council at Bantam, had notice of the Company's displeasure against her master, Will. Minors, arrested him according to orders, and in his room appointed his mate, Christopher Morris, seized upon and sealed up all his papers, which with himself intend to send to the southwards on the Jewel and have brought his goods, only sugar, to the Company's account. Intend to send transcripts of all their proceedings since their coming to this place on the Jewel to Bantam. Intreat a convenient quantity yearly of paper and quills, for they are driven to buy it of seamen and others at triple the prime cost in England. Endorsed, "R. by the Jonas 3d August 1635." 17 pp. [O. C., Vol. XV., No. 1536.] |
| Oct. 31. |
617. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Solicitation by divers of their servants returned in the Mary for remission of freight on private trade; Mountney ordered to pay Custom and bring them up to the East India House to be viewed. Committees of the Yard intreated to repair to Blackwall, and if they find the workmen too many, and work unnecessary, to dismiss the one and suspend the other till the day's grow longer. Request of Billingsley to suspend their suit against him for his brother-in-law Collins's debt till his daily expected return from New England, answered that before he entered into bond he was told they looked not on Collins but on him for satisfaction; Acton ordered to proceed against him on his bond. Request of the brother and executor of Tho. Rosse, deceased in Persia, for a sight of his brother's accounts; Committees intreated to prepare them for the Court. Securities allowed for 100 bags of pepper for transportation. Wages to be paid to John Hutchins and John Clarke, and what shall be found due to Mary, widow of John Berryman. Account presented by the Auditors of Henry Sill's estate, by which it appears there is coming to George Sill, his administrator, 300l. odd, but he pretending to a greater sum desired leave to choose an Auditor to examine the accounts; the Court ordered a copy of the accounts to be given to him, to which he might
make his exceptions, but to admit him an Auditor to review those accounts, they thought a disparagement to the Committees' and Auditors' reputations. Note presented of 40 barrels of powder returned by Mrs. Collins amended; ordered that any more unserviceable powder at the Wall be forthwith delivered to her. 2 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XV., 79, 80.] |
