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Nov. 2.
Masulipatam. |
88. G. Willoughby, John Hunter, and William Matthewe to the East India Company. Their last was of 19 April at sea by the ship London. Arrived at the Bay of Augustine 4th May, at the Island Joanna the 21st, where they refreshed with fruits, the men having had their fill of flesh at Augustine, and arrived at Armagon 27th June all in good health, having lost but one man. In Armagon found Christopher Reade, Thomas Tempest, and Richard Harrison, Factors, with whom, according to order, they consulted as to investments, and by joint advice landed 12 barrels quicksilver, 180 pigs lead, 40 hhds. alum, 1,983½ double alberts, and 1,128 ryders, the greatest part whereof were sold for paintings to be delivered in four months from July 9. Prices at which their commodities were sold. Send herewith particulars of the paintings agreed for by Matthew Duke deceased in Armagon after five days' sickness of a flux, the want of whose assistance has somewhat estranged their business. Left Armagon 15th July and arrived here the 19th. Could not leave any Factor at Armagon by reason of the want of Mr. Duke, considering they would be more necessary in this place, which was as it were belayed with merchants, Dutch, English, and free traders, making investments with all possible haste, and so much the more because of the Star's arrival, but left the business of the Old Stock with the Factors there resident, making them sensible of their expected assistance in this second voyage. Found here Henry Sill, one of the Bantam Council (entitled Agent of the Coast), with the Falcon and Dove of whose cargazoon for the Old Stock they can say but little. Entreated Sill to send for Mr. Henley (who only was experienced in these parts) from Pettepuly [Pettapoli], Ralph Cartwright being at Mountepuly and Benjamin Owen, Purser, at Viraacheron providing cloth. Finding none of their investments advised from Armagon begun, dispeeded John Hunter and William Matthew to Pettapoli with Henley to provide cloth, with 2,000 ryders and 1,500 pagodas borrowed of their good friend Meirquimaldin, and made Henley chief. Took a house with the approbation of Mr. Sill, theirs being too little for both occasions. On arrival dispeeded the Company's letters to Surat, could not procure conveyance from Armagon and conceived it dangerous to send them overland to this place. By the Dove sent the bale of silk for sale to Bantam against
the Great James's arrival from Surat. Concerning the condition of the Old Stock, out of which great sums have been paid for customs, as duties of rivers, towns, and this city's gates, and for trade by courtesy of petty governors, all of which might have been excluded if the King's patent for secure trade had been procured. Agreement made with the Governor of Pettapoli by Mr. Henley on first settling trade there, but he did not have it ratified either by the Governor of this place or the King; and now the Deputy Governor here will not allow of it, but orders the goods to be brought here to be shipped, which will be both chargeable and dangerous, the great dearth having filled the country with thieves. Willoughby has conferred with this Governor and sent letters to Court six days' since for redress. In all these errors accuse no man, for continual extreme sickness may seem to excuse Henry Sill, and want of authority Lawrence Henley. The great dearth, which began three years' since and still increases, with the unusually great cargazoone invested, and many free traders, Dutch and Danes, have raised the price of cloth to an extraordinary rate, and beaten down the price of gold, alum, and broadcloth, to the great loss of the second general voyage. Hope the rest of the markets, as of cloves, be not likewise forestalled. Complain of the cloth of these parts wanting both in length and breadth, this place has of late years been so supplied that as soon as a Factor has learned to known one cloth from another, his time is expired. Mr. Henley who has come to some perfection, will now be gone, and Messrs. Sill and Reade say they will stay but till next year. All their alum brought from Armagon lies on their hands and part of the lead; the quantities of broadcloth sold and the prices; the rest and the alum will not vend for near what they wish. Reasons why their lead was sold under the price of that which came from Bantam. Hope to lade from these parts 230 bales of goods for Armagon by the middle of Dec. to be despatched by 1st Jan. for Bantam. Send list of the sorts likeliest to be procured. Find that the pagoda current here (which cannot be stamped in this kingdom, neither is at present in any other) is worth upwards of 9s.; have therefore rated it at 9s. 4½d. to produce some profit on their English species and commodities. Profit produced at Armagon on the commodities brought in the Star, lead 175 per cent.; alum 20 per cent.; quicksilver 50 per cent. Also in Masulipatam, lead 150; and broadcloth 100; but the alum is a drug, the place having been clogged these three years' from Bantam with China alum, which though worse than English finds vent by its cheapness. Intend to put off their remains of lead, alum, and broadcloth at any reasonable prices, broadcloth valuable at Macassar, for if any remains are left at Armagon they would only vend for cloth paintings, and money must be supplied to defray the factories charge. Cannot but much commend the prudent care of the Surat President and Council in supplying them with friends by letters of recommendation both here and in Court, which have stood them in good stead. Could not by any advice of the southern Factors make lists of the sorts of cloth for Bantam, Jambi, and Macassar, have therefore thought fit to
proceed by a general list of the sorts vendible in all these factories, to be sorted on arrival at Bantam. Remarks upon private trade cannot acquaint the Company either with the persons or sums, yet suppose if private trade had not been the great reason of sending these two ships from Bantam they should have been kept at Bantam to invest their Rs. of 8 in spices against the occasion of shipping from Surat for England, for now they are invested in these commodities an end cannot be put to the Old Stock till new supplies of money be sent to help put off these goods at Jambi and defray customs, &c. Had thus far proceeded before sight of a copy of their letter by the Royal James, received overland from Surat; whereby they understand of their sending the three intended ships, which are safely arrived, and enordering the Great James's repair to Bantam, which they hope to dispatch again for Surat within 10 days; following the order of the President and Council that if upon her arrival there be not pepper enough procured for the second voyage to presently lade her, then to supply the want by pepper of the Old Stock, afterwards to be repaid; this will advantage the Old as well as the New Stock by securing their pepper which might be exposed to further charge and danger by remaining in old leaky ships or relading on shore, in a country troublesome by reason of the Materam's intended wars. Take notice of the wetting of the cloves in the Mary, and the want of them in former ships which they will strive to redress. Will advise from Bantam concerning the seeming error in the King of Tallowe's [Tolo's] cloves. Henry Sill and Chris. Reade say they know nothing of the 12 tons of cloves the Company say were remaining after the dispeed of the Mary. George Willoughby renders them humble thanks for preferring him to be chief of the southern factories; and wishes he had larger commission for the utter extinguishing of private trade upon the gross use of which by all the merchants he severely comments. A clause in the President's letter says that great confidence is had of George Willoughby and Council's integrity for suppressing private trade, and they fear that if they should make his power known he might be strengthened to make seizure or otherwise disappoint their private or rather public returns for Bantam, whence it is reported was brought near 80,000 Rs. of 8 private trade. Sill so debilitated by long continued sickness that he has referred the ordering of the Company's and his own business to others, and is unlikely to do any further service on this coast, but in purse is strong to prejudice them by his great trade; besides other employments he has forestalled the market to the no small prejudice of the second general voyage. Relate how their projects for continuance of private trade have more plainly appeared. Christopher Reade newly come from Bantam chose a Factor whose time would be expired before he could have well entered into the knowledge of cloth; but the agent and Wm. Matthewe impartially chose John Hunter, who has lived five years' on this coast and is fitter for this place, but they would not allow the agent to have the casting voice, but called in John Carter, mariner, who declared Mr. Reade to stay; and Ralph Cartwright who has before been accused of heinous unknown crimes
and condemned as unfit to be trusted is also by Sill intended to be stayed for a Factor. Pray the Company to take it seriously to heart that these parties who it seems intend to root private trade upon this coast may be "disparted" English commodities vendible on this coast per annum if there be a settled residence; 1,200 cwt. lead whereof 400 cwt. at Armagon; 5,000 lb. quicksilver, whereof 2,000 at Armagon; and broadcloths 20 red stammells, whereof two at Armagon. Armagon must be maintained for providing paintings, for they cannot be ascertained of them elsewhere, and it is requisite that 20 soldiers be left there besides five Factors, the charge whereof they compute at 2,000 pagodas Armagon per annum, which coin we esteem at 6s. 8d. sterling, paying only the thirds of the merchants' salaries and soldiers' wages; it will be necessary to build a fort of four points, each point having four pieces of ordnance, there being at present only a wild fortification without form or strength, which they suppose will cost 8,000 Rs. of 8. A factory must be re-settled in Masulipatam to supply the southern factories with sorts of white cloth not to be procured in Armagon. Endorsed, "Rec. by ships Discovery & Reformation from Surat." 9 pp. [O. C., Vol. XII., No. 1322.] |
| Nov. 3. |
89. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Complaint of Dr. Raven concerning a broke unjustly laid upon him for not transporting his pepper, answered that unless he can give better satisfaction it cannot be taken off; the delivery of his warrants for his 16th half capital in pepper and cloves, ordered. Petition of Mr. Davies one of the Proctors in the Arches, recommended by letters from Sir Henry Martin, Dr. Duck and Dr. Zouch, for employment for his son John, answered that the Court tho' very desirous to have pleasured him have settled the number of their Factors for this voyage. Mr. Gifford while thanking the Court for their offer, made bold to refuse it, seeing it answered not what he conceived he should deserve. Complaint of Mr. Governor that having sent in 700l. or 800l. to Mr. Treasurer in part payment of his late bargain of pepper upon rebate, he refused to accept it at 8l. per cent., the Court conceived Mr. Governor as worthy of favour as any man, and ordered Mr. Treasurer to allow rebate at 8l. per cent. Motion of Mr. Treasurer of the want of cash for necessary payments, howbeit there are good sums due, yet he fears payment might be uncertain, most men exceeding their time one or two months; ordered that John Spiller attend the adventurers who are behindhand and be earnest with them to send in their moneys, and that he likewise call upon the linendrapers and all others indebted to the Company who have exceeded their time and require present satisfaction, otherwise to give them notice that they will be forthwith put in suit, which course he was authorised to put in execution against defaulters without further orders. Freight of goods remitted to Richard Crofts lately entertained to go again as Factor to the Indies on his promise to lay aside all pretence to a debt of Gabriel Hawley, which he conceived ought to have been paid by the Company. Freight of 100 lb. of long pepper, remitted to Capt. Hall. Contract
made by Ald. Garway with Mr. Vande Putt for 100 bullions of quicksilver at 2s. 8d. per lb., confirmed with thanks for his pains. Ordered that Mr. Gearing be warned to the Court on Monday next to show cause why he refuses to accept the remain of his pepper. Dispute whether to proceed with the suit against Messrs. Saunders and Hall, who refused to pay interest for money due to the Company left to Mr. Treasurer to do as he is advised by Council. Ordered that Mr. Lampryer, their ancient servant, now in great need, be admitted to the Company's Almshouse at Blackwall, and appointed keeper of the iron stores at 7s. a week. Part wages of Brute Gread, carpenter in the London, detained for a copper kettle, to be repaid to his wife Dorothy, it appearing by certificate that said kettle was brought ashore with the bottom burnt out and was afterwards cut in pieces and used about Mr. Muschamp's wooden leg. 4½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XII., 77–81.] |
Nov. 6.
Westminster. |
90. The King's license to the East India Company to transport 30,000l. in gold for the Indies in the Mary, Exchange, Speedwell, and Hopewell for the northwards, and the Palsgrave and London for Bantam and the southwards, laden with tin, lead, and other native commodities. [Sign Man., Chas. I., Vol. XII., No. 24.] |
Nov. 6.
Masulipatam. |
91. Geo. Willoughby, Jno. Hunter, William Mathewe, Henry Syll, Laur. Henly, and Christ. Reade to the President and Council at Surat. Received theirs of 29th Sept. on 24th Oct. by which with a clause in the Company's letter they understand the general authority confirmed upon President Thomas Rastell, at whose return they rejoice. Send relation of the past and intended investment of the Star's capital with copies of their joint proceedings with advice of the Factors of the Old Stock; the accounts and invoice cannot be sent till the investment be full, but they shall receive a list of the cloths intended with their prices; and at departure from this coast they will send the Star's invoice and all necessary writings concerning the second general voyage; and as soon as convenient the final balance of the Old Stocks remains shall be sent from Bantam. Send copy of the pinnace Dove's invoice, with list of goods intended for the Falcon which they hope shall be dispeeded for Bantam by the fine Nov. at furthest. The remains of the second general voyage upon this coast [in margin the Star] amount to 1,945l. 15s. 8d. in lead, alum, broadcloth, and gold. Sales of English commodities with their profits; also list of those vendible yearly upon this coast (if a settled residence) and the quantities, lead, quicksilver, vermilion, coral, and broadcloth. Estimate of the charge belonging to the second voyage for the time of the Star's stay. As this place must be used for supplying the southern factories, they should make a treaty with the King to compound yearly for all customs and so trade in all places of his kingdom, free from the extraordinary exactions of his Governors. If this annual custom could be procured for 1,500 pagodas it were a great bargain at present, but much more in future. This may the sooner be procured as after the Star's departure it is needless to leave any English, whence they shall depart in friendly manner, showing
reasons for retiring as having no patent from the King for Free Trade. Trading in this running manner by particular voyages causes in sales as in investments not less than 25 per cent. loss; the supply of a year's stock beforehand would save so much and more. The factory of Armagon of necessity for providing paintings is to be maintained, to secure which 20 soldiers must be left there besides five Factors, at the charge as computed of 2,000 pag. per annum; a fort also is necessary [see their letter, ante, No. 88]. The several lists of clothing for these parts at Surat, and for the factories of Bantam, Jambi, Macassar, and Japara are drawn according to the long experience of Messrs. Sill and Reade, showing also how much money must be furnished for investments, customs, and charges in each factory. Describe the goods hardest to be procured, also the sorts and quantities of goods here to be procured, most proper for England. Cannot from hence resolve them of the quantity of goods that may yearly vend to the southwards and be returned to Surat in gold and cloves, above the proportion required for purchasing 1,000 to 1,200 tons pepper, and 100 tons cloves, but will advise as their experience shall enable them, and send musters of any new sorts of clothing fit to be provided at Surat. Cannot but commend their wisdom in contriving the James's lading which will be beneficial to both Stocks, and hope thereby to dispatch her in 10 days after her arrival at Bantam. Will from Bantam advise particulars of stores wanting for the ships, have set down but two ships unserviceable, but might have set down all or most, being only hulls wanting all things. Conceive their project for a small ship to go with the James laden with sugar and spices will be very beneficial. The southern investments will require five vessels, viz., three of 300 tons each, and two pinnaces, whereof two ships to be employed to Jambi for pepper, and one to Macassar for cloves supplying Japara if requisite on the way, and the pinnaces of 50 or 60 tons to be employed to Jambi, Macassar, or Japara on occasion. One of the ships at Jambi must be a Dutch vessel the better to go over the bar, of 12 or 15 pieces of ordnance, and must be continually in the river of Jambi, to transport pepper from the town to the ship because by agreement with the King one ship must always be in the river to defend the town. The ship that transports the pepper to Bantam must be of good force to defend herself from any Portugal frigates from Malacca; and the ship for Macassar must be of very good force, that part being much used by the Portugals, and she may be spared once a year for Surat, or to help transport pepper from Jambi. Armagon should have a small man-of-war of 80 or 100 tons, to be employed to Gingelly, Arracan, Pegn, and on coasting voyages, the profit whereof would defray her own and most of the factory charges if well managed; which (as is supposed) might be spared from Bantam but for the great mortality of the mariners and want of stores there. Cannot hence resolve what quantity of pepper and sugar Bantam may yearly produce, but the Factors of the Old Stock suppose 100 tons of cloves yearly will be the most to be procured from Macassar. The charges of these factories to be borne by both Stocks according to
equity. Send list of the mariners and of the stores remaining in the Star and Falcon, and of the Factors upon this coast with their entertainments and employments. The charge of the factory in Japara will be very small, it has supplied Bantam with provisions for repairing ships, rice and rack; it will vend good quantities of cloth and return gold fit for Surat to the value of 10,000 R. of 8 yearly; it is also all the residence they have under the Materam's government, and so long as their residence is there they are in his knowledge and favour especially by means of that Governor, a Persian, their special friend, and if the Materam take Bantam the whole trade of Java will be theirs, he having vowed the destruction of himself or the Dutch; and then will Armagon be in especial esteem for paintings. Have considered how many Factors are necessary for the southern factories of Bantam, Jambi, Macassar, and Japara and conceive there will be employment for 17. Six Factors will be necessary for Bantam; where the Company allows a Council to the agent, and it is not fit that the steward should be one; six at Jambi and a surgeon; three at Macassar, whereof the third to be steward; and two at Japara; if any should decease the factories must be supplied from Bantam, which should be the better provided. Of these 17 Factors required, only seven will be left, when those are retired home whom the Company requires or whose times are expired, viz., the Agent, Wm. Hoare, Jno. Hunter, Wm. Matthew, Thomas Robinson, Wm. Clark and Jno. Russell; desire them to supply from Surat as many as they may. In Armagon five Factors will be necessary because of supplying Masulipatam when any ships arrive with capital to be invested, whereof will be requisite one in Masulipatam, one in Pettapoli, one in Mountepuly, and one in Pulicat or Viraacheron, whose assistants must be taken from said ships; otherwise three would be enough for Armagon. Conceive the factory in Bantam will require a surgeon, shipwright, smith, and two or three more Englishmen to help watch the Company's goods which they usually do all night. In case the Star returns not timely from Macassar to transport her cloves into the James, desire advice whether they may not borrow cloves of the Old Stock (if any ready) to lade the James. By Sill's relation there are 800 tons (8,000 picul) of pepper ready in Jambi for account of the Old Stock, and the cargazoone of 30,000 ryals invested on this coast which is supposed to produce 60,000 R. may procure 800 tons more; all which will require for custom 16,000 R. (at one ryal per picul), which with one-fourth part money to put off the goods in barter for pepper amounts to 24,000 Rs., which must be supplied from Surat or England or the pepper cannot be transported. Advised in former letters that their gold produced 20 per cent. loss, it was because they intended to rate the pagoda at 7s. 6d., but upon mature consideration they have rated it at 9s. 4½d. (the Dutch rate is at 9s.), whereby it produces 5 per cent. profit. There has been no difference as they seem to suspect between the Factors of the Old and New Stocks but love and amity have jointly proceeded in the Star's capital's employment. Pray advice whether the name of Wm. Reade be not a mistake, he being a sailor in the Dove. On
receipt of their letters with copies of the Company's, George Willoughby, Jno. Hunter and Wm. Matthew perceived that the agent was placed chief over the remains of the Old Stock, which Mr. Sill denying, it was referred to joint consultation, George Willoughby and Henry Sill being neuters, where it was by most voices given to Sill, viz., by Laur. Henly, Christ. Reade, Jno. Carter, mariner, and Benjamin Carter, Purser, belonging to the Old Stock; Jno. Hunter, Wm. Matthew and Philip Bearden, Purser, belonging to the second general voyage, conceiving George Willoughby to be the chief intended. Their good friend Meirquimaldine fittest to receive letters in their absence who will dispeed them overland to Armagon if the Star be departed, which they suppose will stay at Masulipatam till the middle of Dec., and at Armagon till the end, where they hope the cloth will be ready against her arrival. Understand that their Factors at Surat will use Bills of Exchange upon this place for 20,000 R.; if they allow the 5,000 pag. for providing scarce cloth, they may by that means furnish them. Endorsed, "Rec. from Bantam in London 10 Octo. by ye 7 Dutch ships." 7 pp. [O. C., Vol. XII., No. 1323.] |
| Nov. 10–12. |
92. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Request of Messrs. Hughs and Waterhouse, two linendrapers who had bought eight bales of calicoes of George Bennett, that the brokes imposed upon them may be remitted, but the Court not being satisfied would not take them off till the business were better cleared, yet ordered warrant to Bennett for his 16th division of pepper and cloves. Suit of Mr. Paget, a minister, and others, to become tenants by lease of the Company's land at Deptford, answered that they are in treaty for all their yards, docks, and land there. Mr. Burnely's security, who has contracted for aloes. Committee to provide sword blades. Resolved to send two preachers for India, one for the northwards and one for the southwards, and calling in the three suitors severally, and desiring to hear them preach, they gave Mr. Reyner the last verse of Ecclesiastes, and the day appointed this day sennight; and to Mr. Sugden and Mr. Westfield Gen. vi. 12, Mr. Sugden to preach this day fortnight and Mr. Westfield the day after in this parish church. Ordered to deliver out a parcel of defective pepper on the 16th division for such as please for 1d. in the lb. less than other pepper, and to serve Mr. Plumer first. After examination into the reasons for detaining his wages, ordered that Warmington be cleared of all his wages, and that Capt. Prynn receive 50l. on account of his wages. On motion of Capt. Andrewes, Wm. Berblock appointed land Purser aboard the Palsgrave when launched. Ordered that the Hopewell follow the same course for the coast of Coromandel as the Star was appointed, and that her cargazoon be 7,000l. in gold, 1,000l. in silver, and 2,000l. in goods, and that one-third of her clothing to be bought at the coast be designed for Bantam and Jambi and the rest for Macassar, and that Jambi be rather furnished than Bantam, if there be any difference, also that the 1,000l. in silver be wholly sent to Bantam. Resolved also to send 30,000l. to Surat and 30,000l. to Persia. Report of Mr. Treasurer that the Company
have accounted with the Farmers who were in their debt 4,548l., that they have paid 3,000l., but detain the rest for 3d. per lb. pretended to be due for imposition of silk, the Court not conceiving the passage to be fair, or that the Farmers can make any stoppage, ordered that they be spoken with. Complaint of Mr. Treasurer that Philip Burlamachi will neither pay in his adventures nor clear his account; resolution deferred. He also related that there was 6,000l. yet unpaid upon the second payment for this third voyage; ordered that Mr. Spiller leave tickets at the houses of those behind to give them notice. Request of Mr. Treasurer to use the Committees' names or take any other course he thinks fitting to procure the money wanted for setting forth the Hopewell. Ordered that the mother of Thomas Heath, a bachelor going in the Hopewell, receive two months' pay yearly of his wages, according to his own request. |
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Nov. 12. John Clarke to be surgeon of the fort of Armagon. Mr. Fincham, a woollen draper in Paul's Churchyard, accepted as Mr. Burnely's security for the aloes Succatrina contracted for. Ordered that Mr. Burlamachi be warned to be in Court on Monday or Wednesday next to settle his account. 10s. a week for six months allowed to George Forbes, a witness in the Amboyna cause, who had gone to Holland with Powell, Ramsey, and the rest to confront the Dutch witnesses, and is still ready to make good his information, with promise of any place that shall fall void whereof he is capable. Gratuity of 10s. over and above his cure to Wm. Hunter, who received a hurt aboard the Mary. 5½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XII., 81–86.] |
Nov. 12.
Madrid. |
93. Sir Francis Cottington, Ambassador at Madrid, to Sec. Lord Dorchester. Few days have passed since the 17th last in which he has not been called to the King or the Conde Duque or the Juntas, or at least had the Secretary of State at his house concerning the treaty. The second question was about that clause of ante bellum mentioned in the seventh article, where they would not understand the war with Queen Elizabeth to be sufficiently expressed, and herein the King himself assisted often and took much pains; both he and his commissioners often protested that they had no kind of intention to question the English navigations to the East Indies, where they traded with great and free princes, much less to impeach it by this article, but that there might be a clear understanding of it as in the former Peace. Can assure his Lordship that if his Majesty will admit of negative articles, as not to trade into such and such harbours, possessed by "Portugueses," or not to sail into such and such bays, they will capitulate a free navigation into those seas, and not only into those seas, but upon those conditions to the coasts of America also, particularly allowing the plantations of Virginia and others, for so they have offered. But for mine own part I shall ever be far from advising his Majesty to think of such restrictions, for certainly a little more time will open the navigation to those parts, so long as there are no negative capitulations or articles to hinder it. The exclusive capitulation which your Lordship
doth mention between Queen Elizabeth and Sebastian, King of Portugal, neither doth nor can do us any harm at all, neither will it ever be urged by them, for before the war of Queen Elizabeth and after the time of Sebastian it appears the English had trade into the East Indies, and capitulations for it with several princes there, and particularly in the Moluccas, as they here know right well. For in a history of those parts printed here in Madrid, anno 1609, written and published by express order of the King himself and by his Council of the Indies, it is so declared at fol. 107, speaking of Sir Francis Drake. Thus your Lordship sees how by their own records it appears his Majesty's subjects had trade into the East Indies before the mentioned war, for until some years after the return of Sir Francis Drake there was no difference at all between the two crowns. And in this I have been the larger because it seems by your Lordship's letters that his Majesty is jealous of some intention here to bar that trade by way of capitulation, leaving less liberty to his Majesty's subjects than in former times. [Extract, Spanish Corresp.] |
| Nov. 12. |
94. Consultation held aboard the Discovery. That certain bales of cloth complained of by Capt. Greene to be damnified before his receipt thereof out of the Discovery, received the damage (which is small) aboard the Discovery, through the carelessness of some headless persons rolling them through some wet place on deck. Signed by Math. Morton, Math. Wills, and Will. Norris. ½ p. [C. O., Vol. XII., No. 1324.] |
| Nov. 15–26. |
95. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Letter read of 27th Feb. 1629-(30), from Mr. Burt out of Persia [see ante, No. 12] resolved to send thither in their next fleet 800 broadcloths and kersies, besides 100 fine cloths for Surat, 10,000l. in tin, and so much in silver specie as shall make up the whole to 30,000l. It was likewise ordered that what cloth is yet wanting shall be bought ready dyed and dressed of the Coventry clothiers. Ordered that 2,000l. in Foreign and 2,000l. in English gold which Mr. Treasurer has in cash be presently packed up and sent aboard the Hopewell, ready to fall down to Gravesend, the rest to be sent after her into the Downs. Also that payments beforehand for this third voyage be received on rebate of 8 per cent. Gratuity of 10l. to Mr. Watts, Commander of the Hopewell to set him to sea, and encourage him the better to proceed with cheerfulness and alacrity in his voyage. Committees to accompany Mr. Acton to instruct and fee Mr. Attorney-General, Mr. Recorder, and other counsel, in the cause to be heard in the Exchequer between the Company and Mrs. Flagg, concerning a parcel of the Moon's pepper bought by her. Complaint of Mr. Baron Sotherton of a breach of the covenants of the Company's lease from him of the water and grounds upon which their powder mills stand; answered that as the Company are ready to abide the course of law begun by himself, so they are are not unwilling to end the difference by arbitration. Freight remitted to Edward Prescott, who came home in the London and returns Factor in the Hopewell, of 300 lbs. of tamarinds, 170 lbs. of long pepper, and 60 lbs. of cinnamon. Suit
of Dr. Hawley and one of his brothers for compassion to be extended to their brother Gabriel for his release out of prison, being willing to refer the difference in question to arbitration; answered that if content to make their uncle's bond of 500l. liable for the debt owing by his brother to the Company they will be content, as formerly offered, to refer this difference to arbitration, otherwise not; thereupon the Court nominated Messrs. Thos. Styles and Henry Lee, but Dr. Hawley desired time to consider of such of like rank and quality. |
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Nov. 17. Mr. Acton's bill of law charges to be paid. Considertion of their difference with Mr. Burlamachi concerning his demand on account of pepper and cloves; ordered to allow him two months' longer in all his contracts, except the first. His demand for allowance of tare and "cloffe," and for divers hogsheads of cloves full of dust; to have what tare others have had, but no allowance ever given for "cloffe," and as for the dusty cloves it was his contract to take one with another. Ordered that Mr. Acton advise with counsel the course to take against Mr. Gearing after his peremptory answer that he will not perform his contract for pepper bought at a General Court. Report of Mr. Treasurer that he hath spoken with Sir Paul Pinder concerning the Farmers' debt, and in particular the 1,548l. deducted by them for the pretented imposition of 3d. per lb. upon silk, and his answer was that as money came in they would pay it. Complaint of Capt. Slade concerning his allowance of cables and cordage. |
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Nov. 19. Petition of Mr. Deputy Bond and other parishioners of Cree Church for benevolence towards the reparation of the said church, alleging that besides the moneys collected, it will cost 1,000l. more to finish, which they will never be able to effect, the parish being but little, and consisting of a great number of very poor householders; the Court, though willing to extend charity to so pious and Godly a work, find they have not power in themselves, but promised to further the same to the Generality the best they can. After dispute whether to call the General Quarter Court, as there is nothing of import to impart, it was ordered that John Spiller warn the Generality accordingly. Concerning the suit commenced against Mr. Alnutt by Mr. Walker about his brother's estate who died in the Indies. Dr. Prevost specially recommended by Sir Thomas Edmondes, Treasurer of his Majesty's household, as physician or surgeon in one of the Company's ships now bound for the Indies; answered that he has come too late, but if he come in time next year they will give him entertainment. Ordered that the Hopewell be dispeeded to the Downs and take the first opportunity of a fair wind for her intended voyage. More strict account to be kept by the Pursers of goods carried out and brought home, and Mr. Bloyse, the person charged to observe the order of David Gelley for keeping a particular book, so the Company may know whom to punish or at least to require freight of. Committees to provide 500l. worth of vermilion, 500 weight whereof to be laden aboard the Hopewell. Ordered that the wet pepper lately ordered out to adventurers on their 16th division at 14d. per lb. be
delivered at 13½d. per lb. Also that the bond entered into by Robert Bloyse on his former employment, be delivered cancelled, the Company having cleared with him for that voyage. Leave to William Browne, Master of the Exchange, lately returned from the Straits, to land his ordnance on the Company's stone wharf at Deptford, so as he take them thence within a month. |
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Nov. 22. Suit of Mrs. Flagg to refer herself to the order of the Court rather than to the judgment of the law; answered that if she voluntarily submit herself in this cause to the Company's censures they will consider her motion; meantime proceedings to be stayed in the Exchequer for recovery of the parcel of the Moon's pepper bought by her. The bill exhibited by the executors of Henry Hawley against the Company in Chancery, together with the Company's answer ordered to be engrossed and put in. Report of Mr. Governor that Mr. Sec. Coke sent for him on Saturday last and signified that the Lord Treasurer having notice of the late disaster of the blowing up of the Company's powder mills, advised them not to be at any further charge in repairing them, for by reason of the contract to be renewed between his Majesty and Mr. Evelyn, his Majesty intends to take their mills into his own hands, and that none are suffered to make powder but Mr. Evelyn, otherwise he cannot perform his contract; to which was answered, that the accident happened without hurt to any person and with little loss, that the mills are again in work so as the advice comes too late, and forasmuch as they are warranted by his Majesty's Letters Patent under the Great Seal, they hope they may have the benefit, at least until they have worked out the saltpetre they have and expect by the next ships, having been encouraged by the State to send for such great quantities; otherwise it will be much to their prejudice, that commodity having exceedingly fallen in price; but that he will acquaint the Company with his Majesty's pleasure. The Secretary directed to present Mr. Westfield, who preached before the Company on Thursday last, with 40s., and to tell him they have no further occasion to make use of his service. Freight remitted to Capt. Pynn of 500 weight of cassia ligna, 500 weight of long pepper, and 600 weight cubebs, amounting to 44l., on his promise not to bring home any private trade in his next intended voyage. Carver's work upon the Company's barge to be paid. |
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Nov. 24. Gratuity of 40s. to Richard Sampall, who lost one of his legs in building the Great James, and has been relieved three or four times, on condition that he trouble them no further. Resolved that the Mary, Exchange, and Speedwell stay at Mohilla till the 15th July in expectation of the William and Blessing, and if they come not, to proceed alone for Persia, leaving letters of the time of their departure. Committees for sword blades with the advice of Mr. Kerridge to buy so many as might with profit be vented at Surat. Mr. Mountney required to take care that all in his charge be made ready with all conveniency, and the like charge given to Mr. Ellam for the merchandize, and 20,000 Rs. more ordered to be provided, Mr. Treasurer having already 140,000 Rs. and dollars. Petition of John Algood, Administrator to John
Coward, deceased in the Indies, concerning his estate. Request of Robert Stone to receive his 16th division detained for his not shipping out his pepper taken out to be transported two years ago, again refused. Leave to Nicholas Sherburne, son of their Secretary, to take passage in the Hopewell with Capt. Altham, and Mr. Ellam ordered to write to the Chief at the coast to take care of the youth's education, that he may become serviceable to the Company. Petition of—Wilkinson, who married Rebecca, sister of Augustine Middleton deceased, to receive the legacies given to his said wife by the will of his said brother the executor being in Virginia; payment ordered upon a discharge from the father and security being given. Freight remitted to Mr. Gilson, late mate in the London. |
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Nov. 26. The freight of 4 cwt. of bark of cloves, of little or no value, remitted to William White, mate of the London. Committees to confer with Mr. Baron Sotherton concerning his demand for losses in regard of the Company's powder mills, the Court being content on his motion to proceed no further in law with a gentleman of his quality. After debate it was ordered, in regard of the General Court this afternoon, that the 16th half capital be paid in money to all adventurers that cannot be supplied with goods, at Christmas next come two years. Resolved not to entertain Mr. Reyner, a preacher, finding the sermon he preached before the Company was but weak, but in regard of his pains 3l. bestowed upon him and so dismissed him. Suit of Mr. Gearing concerning the parcel of pepper he bought of the Company. Request of Mr. Corretyne and the brother of Thos. Mills deceased, concerning the estate of his brother. 14½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XII., 87–101.] |
| Nov. 26. |
96. Minutes of a General Court. Report of Mr. Governor that many are much discontented because there are not goods sufficient for all that had underwritten for the 16th division, wherein the General Court are to be blamed for rating the pepper at but 15d. per lb., that the Committees that morning agreed that any that cannot have pepper may have calicoes, and that those that have not taken out goods be paid in money at Christmas come two years, because the 15th division is payable at Michaelmas come 12 months, and it is not fit they be together. Liberty to sell goods in town to be understood for this division only. Mr. Governor then said there was no other business to remonstrate only that letters of the 20th Jan. [? 20 Feb., see ante, No. 10] from Gombroon, and of the 27th Feb. [see ante, No. 12] from Ispahan imported that the Second Joint Stock may expect 80 bales of silk for a remainder, and the first Persian voyage 80 more, but because those letters principally concern the first Persian voyage it was thought fit to forbear their public reading at this meeting. Petition read of the parishioners of St. Katherine Cree church, that the building of their church will amount to 2,000l. more than they have collected, and praying aid; it was unanimously acknowledged that the work is pious, but alleged that the Company is not as others who have lands and revenues to bestow upon charitable uses, for this Company hath
only a stock of money which cannot be disposed of but for the good of the adventurers, yet remembering there is a sum of money levied upon Pursers by way of mulcts for failing in their duty, it was ordered to bestow upon the parish 100 marks for glazing the east window of the church; which was thankfully accepted with promise that the Arms of the Company shall be set up in the window for a memorial of their love to so religious a work. Petition of Henry Woodfall that his brokes be remitted, and his 16th division delivered, denied. Report being abroad that many exorbitancies and gross errors are committed by the Company's Factors in the Indies to the consumption of the Company's estate and enriching of themselves insomuch as that those went out scarce worth 20l., are returned home with 30,000l. or 40,000l.; Mr. Governor replied that the Court of Committees have taken as much care as possible to discover these abuses not only by seizing upon their estates and writings, but by examining them and their witnesses against them, wherein two Courts have been already spent and a third will be shortly; notwithstanding it was proposed that six of the Committees and six of the Generality meet and examine the truth of these reports, but Mr. Governor answered it is not fit to exclude any of the Committees, but that some of the Generality might be named to join with, whereupon are nominated Sir John North, Sir John Wolstenholme, and Messrs. Scott, Gorsuch, Keightly, Sheares, Chamberlain, Hollinshead, Smethwicke. 2½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XII., 101–103.] |
Nov. 27./Dec. 7.
Paris. |
97. MM. Devic and Augier, H.M. Agents in France, to Sec. Lord Dorchester. Entreat him to assist M. Trigg in his private suit [see his Memorial, No. 125] by causing his Majesty's authority to intervene with the East India Company to induce them either to send over money here to follow up this difference or to transfer the whole to Trigg, who may thus perhaps recover something to indemnify himself in part for his loss of time and the expenses incurred during 20 years about these affairs. The embassage also will be freed from the importunity with which it is incessantly troubled about this old cause, and this King's Council from the annoyance it receives continually to the detriment of other English affairs. French. 1 p. [Corresp., France.] |
| Nov. 29. |
98. Court Minutes, E. I. Co. Ordered that Mr. Bennett, a searcher of the Custom House, be allowed 5s. per bag for discovering 10 bags of pepper which should have been transported by Alderman Wright, but were taken ashore and sold in town. Answer of Robert Fox, late mate of the Dove, to the objections against him in the letter of David Gelly, Purser of the Dove. Suit of Ezekiel Mills concerning the estate of his brother Thomas, deceased in the Indies, seeing the debt of Thos. Mills to the Company is greater than his estate, yet he served the Company long and died in their service, and praying, in consideration of the poverty of petitioner, his brother's executor, that the Court will have a favourable consideration of him; after debate, resolved to bestow upon him as a free gift 300l., and that Sir Richard Edgecombe have a
sword and dagger, and Mr. Marlott a sword hilt given by the said will. Ordered that the Standing Committee and the Committee of the Generality for examination of private traders, together with Messrs. Muschampe, Bix, Coggins, Steele, Fleming, and Boulter, be warned to a meeting on Thursday. Ordered that Thos. Spight be paid so much of the 120l. sent home in the Purser's books from Mr. Hoare to his wife as remains in the Company's hands. Request of the widow of Deodatus Staverton, executor to Thomas Staverton, deceased, that the difference between her late husband and the Company concerning Thomas Staverton's estate be determined by the arbitrators formerly named, viz., Sir Henry Roe and Mr. Bennett for Mrs. Staverton, and Sir Hugh Hamersley and Mr. Keightly for the Company. 2 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk., XII., 104, 105.] |
| Nov. 30. |
99. Consultation aboard the Royal James. Whereas on Saturday the 28th there was a difference betwixt the barges' crews of the James and Blessing, wherefrom great hurt was likely to have ensued, it is ordered that the chief beginners, viz., John Todd and———[sic], for example's sake be ducked tomorrow morning from the yard arms of the said ships, agreeable to sea orders. Signed by Math. Morton, Matthew Wills, Michael Greene, and John Roberts. ½ p. [O. C., Vol. XII., No. 1325.] |
