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Feb. 1.
Aboard the
Unicorn.
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258. Ric. Hounsell to Geo. Ball, president at Bantam. "Discourtesies
pierce deep, especially where they are not deserved ;" is
free from deserving any from him. In reply to his demands whether
Capt. Pepwell had been aboard the Unicorn and confirmed Hounsell
captain ; whether Pepwell had power to do so, and that Ball would
ere long alter what had been done. Has six men with him who
came from the Dutch at several times and are in want of apparel.
[One page and a quarter. O.C., Vol. V., No. 603.]
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Feb. 2.
Bantam.
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259. Wm. Stonywell to Edw. Longe at Jacatra. His last was by
the James. The French report that the Admiral is daily expected
in the road, and thinks when she unlades that good may be done ;
but in the Vice-Admiral can lay out nothing to any purpose. The
Chinese report that two junks will arrive in two or three days, "as
their devil telleth them." Remembrances to Mr. Powers. [One page.
O.C., Vol. V., No. 604.]
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Feb. 2.
Jacatra.
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260. Wm. Methwold to President Ball at Bantam. On landing
their first care was to get oysters, but their longing desires were
frustrated, because "in the time of rains the coming down of the
fresh kills or makes uneatable those salt shell animals." Ufflete
will advise him of the provisions sent aboard the Attendance.
Conspiracy on board, the men refusing to leave the place, but they
were reduced to an unwilling obedience and the ship has sailed. In
favour of Soverin, late master's mate of the Unicorn, now of the
James, for an advance of wages, he being sick. Desires his commands
as to his return or longer stay. Disbursements on account of the
Attendance. Requests his "dispensation or excuse" for Buggins,
purser of the Unicorn, who came to Jacatra for his health, without
the president's leave. [One page and a quarter. O.C., Vol. V.,
No. 605.]
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Feb. 3.
Bantam.
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261. W. Stonywell to E. Longe at Jacatra. He will receive his
money by the bearer, Robt. Carter, purser of the Rose ; is sorry he
could not do according to Longe's desire. The French ship still in
the Flemings' custody, not one ryal's worth of commodities sold as
yet, and not so much as a shirt suffered to be delivered out of the
ship to shift men ashore. [One page. O.C., Vol. V., No. 607.]
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Feb. 3.
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262. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Sir Julius
Csar allowed to adventure 1,500l. Cause of Best suspended in the
Council Chamber, but still in the Company's power to have him
called up again if he do not demean himself as is fitting. Accusations
against Withington. General order to the commander of the
fleet against taking any on the voyage but those entertained for
employment. Letter from Sir Thomas Dale, dated from the Low
Countries, 15th Jan., stating that the Dutch commanders have orders
from the States to engross the pepper at Bantam and Jacatra into
their hands, to undersell the English at home, and to weary and
punish the English so as to force them to the desired union ; advises
them to stand upon their defence if the Flemings shall attempt
against them. His intention to return to England by the end of
January. On Lady Dale's application, 50l. to be lent her to provide
for her husband's return. Thomas Mitford desires to have his goods
and satisfaction from Nath. Martyn for things stolen from his cabin ;
he also pleads for some gratification for his good service ; but "he,
having deserved so ill, gave no encouragement to think any further
of him." Committees to go to Gravesend to hasten the departure
of the ships. The ships that go to relieve any ships they meet
standing in need of men and provisions. Bargain to be concluded
for certain frames, feathers, and pictures. Ships to take two
pinnaces with them from Bantam to the Moluccas, to carry goods
and run in and out to discover as occasion shall be presented.
Lord Zouch having acquainted the Privy Council with a bill set
upon the Exchange by a new East India Company, they all wondered
that the Lord Mayor had allowed it to be set up so publicly to the
discountenancing of this Company, and resolved to let the King
know "how ill they all do conceive thereof and to crave reformation."
Thomas Spike to be sworn a free brother on his return. Gratuity
to Rand the preacher. Samuel Hazard entertained as a factor.
[Three pages. Court Bk. IV., 122-125.]
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Feb. 4.
Ahmedabad.
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263. Sir Thos. Roe's instructions to the chief factors, Thos.
Barker and Edw. Monox, in Persia. To be instant with the Shah
to force the Portugal to consent to a free trade ; all relief to Ormuz
from the main forbidden, or some port fortified for shipping. To
avow Connaught [Connok] to have been a messenger sent from the
King, though not with absolute power, as ambassador to treat and
conclude ; but that if the Shah fulfil the desires of the English, his
Majesty will send ample authority further to contract with him.
The points to be concluded upon which Connok already began to
treat-the quantity of silk to be bartered for and how ; privilege
for a staple and standing mart at Shiraz, where the English may
barter and trade with the Shah's subjects ; free passage for all their
goods on the conditions granted to Connok ; powers to sign such
contract. Directions in detail for carrying on the trade ; John
Leachland, factor, to be employed in buying the silks. Monox
appointed second factor, and in the event of Barker's decease to
succeed him as Cape merchant. True inventories to be taken of
the estates of factors dying in the Company's service, particularly
of that of Wm. Tracy, and the goods and moneys or debts of the late
Ed. Connok to be seized to the use of his creditors and the Company.
[Two pages and three quarters. Endorsed by Sir Thomas Roe, "To
be conveyed by the way of Sinde by Mr. Ker[ridge ?], the ship not
going." [O.C., Vol. V., No. 608.]
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Feb. 6.
Madrid.
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264. Fras. Cottington to Sec. Lake. It is now resolved that
Sir Robt. Sherley shall be received, lodged, and entertained as an
extraordinary ambassador (from Persia), and a house is preparing
for him, but he has not yet arrived at Madrid. [Extract from
Correspondence, Spain.]
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Feb. 7.
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265. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Suit of
Thomas, brother to John Gourney, factor, that his brother's wages
may be put into the second joint stock. Henry Elwaies to be
admitted a free brother on his return. 50l. lent to Lady Dale by
her brother, Sir Wm. Throgmorton, because he would not trouble
the Company. Request of Jonson and his wife, Sedgwick's daughter,
that the 200l. reserved by the Company to the use of Capt. Downton's
daughter and child should return to them if both die without issue.
Petition preferred against the Muscovy Company at the council
table to be read, many of this Court being of that Company. Concerning
a debt of 100l. due to the Muscovy Company by the
late Mr. Basse, the dispatch of Paul Trigs with the King's
letters into France, and the fourth voyage ; Freman, not approving
of the proceedings, renounces his interest in the voyage.
Petition of John Myller for relief for the loss of his right
hand, which was shot off in the Advice. Disposal of the 36,000l.
put up in chests into the several ships. Committees to go to
Gravesend for the dispatch of the ships. Gratification to Tucker.
The allowance of powder and shot to each ship to be increased.
Annuity of 20l. granted to Daniel Wight's father. Samuel Hazard,
entertained for a factor. Loan of 100l. to Sir Thomas Dale. [Two
pages and three quarters. Court Book IV., 125-127.]
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Feb. 10.
Ahmedabad.
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266. John Browne to the East India Company. In reply to
their letter of 6th February 1616-7. Concerning their affairs in
general ; the death of Robt. Gipps, the accountant, before he had
prepared his books, left the accounts very confused, and as Browne
could not trust on Chr. Farewell's judgment, he has run through
them himself in the form they will see. Touching the accounts of
those deceased, particularly of Thos. Aldworthe, Robt. Gipps, who died
23rd May 1616, and Wm. Bell, who died 19th June 1617. Reason
of the detention of the ships, a fault where means are used to accomplish
their dispatch. The office of mint master is in the nature
of a monopoly, and the sheriffs are poor and beggarly ; dares not
trust them further than a pawn ; they have not in all his time compassed
the buying of a chest of ryals at once. Reply to Capt.
Keeling's brutish and untrue advice ; wonders if it were not by community
to make his own filthiness the less ; believes that none but
those of Keeling's own fleet have been touched with that disease.
The negligence of John Willoughby, a young merchant, prevents
him sending the Company copies of their factory letters. In point
of private trade, is guiltless of sending one pennyworth of commodities
either north or south. Little encouragement to him when he
sees Capt. Towerson, Rich. Steele, and others laden with commodities,
and last year Martyn, Mitford, and others returned unfit proportions
of commodity of more moment. Is persuaded the poor condition of
their servants there will keep them clear of this crime. As to the
payment of too great a proportion of their servants' wages, a cause
of private trade. Concerning "the request or disrespect of goods,"
those which are unprofitable and those which will sell the best.
Their treatment by Mocrob Khan and Aseph Khan, who disgraced
them in the King's presence ; suggestions for preventing similar
treatment in future. Account of the trade of the Portuguese.
Supply of commodities ; the sales at Surat cannot be hindered by
Ahmedabad, because Ahmedabad is supplied from Cambaya, as Surat
is from Deccan, Burrampoor, and those southern and southeastern
countries. Two things for consideration, the sale of the
Company's commodities, and the prevention of others from serving
this place. Disposal of the two ships of Capt. Joseph's fleet. A
barrel of window glass received by the last fleet, but the glaziers all
gone to Persia. Difficulty of selling the goods after they have been
refused by Aseph Khan, who must first see them ; hopes he may
deserve as well of the English as Sir Thos. Roe opineth. Observations
upon the powers given by the Company to the ambassador,
Sir Thos. Roe. Arrival of Richard Steele and his engineer ; account
of his proceedings ; anticipated failure of his grand projected waterworks.
Brought up last year from Surat the Unicorn's horn, and
showed it to Mocrob Khan at the price of 5,000 rupees, "a price too
high only for the shape, and five times too mean if it had the
virtue he expected ; and made trial of by the lives of a pigeon, goat,
and man, which they losing, it also lost his esteem, and so I returned
it aboard from whence I had it." Prices at which the quicksilver
was sold. Two bales of sugar candy and two jars of borax sent by
the Globe. The expectation of the King's arrival makes all things
dear. [Seven pages and a quarter. Indorsed, "Received by the
Bull 13th Feb. 1618-9." O.C., Vol. V., No. 609.]
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Feb. 14.
Ahmedabad
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267. Sir Thos. Roe to the East India Company. Their letters
by the Charles arrived safely in Sept. 1616, and answers were
dispatched by the Globe the following March. A journal and transcripts
of letters will make the Company acquainted with their business
in court and factories. "You may in some clauses find me
sharp and censuring your advices from home, but you will find my
reasons justifiable and my ends honest and upright." The little doubts
that arose between Roe and Capt. Keeling soon vanished. Roe
found him in all things a reasonable and discreet man. The English,
suffering from the insolencies of the Prince, have this year made
trial of Gogo, and searched all the bay, but can find no place but
Surat fit for the Company's head residence. To waft the Mogul's
subjects into the Red Sea will never give the Company's men bread
and water. Jealousies of the Moors on the motion of building a fort ;
the English were disarmed at Surat, and "I am not yet clear of
liberties lost upon it." Has wondered at the patience with which the
many insolencies of the English have been borne, yet the English
complain. Last year 200 naked men were sent ashore from the ships
to take Surat, yet ten men would have kept them from passing the
Great River ; this year they offered to force the custom house. Is
against building forts ; all their profits may be eaten in garrison ;
and it is no way to drive their trade by plantation. The Dutch
have spoiled the Moluccas, which they fought for, and spent more
than they will yield them if quiet in seven years. Scinde they may
go to, to lade and relade, but it is inhabited by the Portugal, and lies
not well for the Company's stock. Bengala has no ports but such
as the Portugals possess for small shipping ; it will vent nothing
English, the people being unwilling in respect of a war they are
expecting. Knows not what profit they can make by residence
there, "speaks upon searching the bottom of all the secrets of India."
The Prince has been his enemy these two years ; had Roe yielded
he must have been the Prince's slave ; has stood out to the last, and
they are now so reconciled that the Prince is now Roe's effectual
mediator ; his father grows dull and suffers him to govern all his
kingdoms. The Company can never expect to trade upon capitulations,
but by phirmaund and promise from the King ; "all the government
depends upon the present will." What became of last year's
presents after they were seized by the Prince on the way. The
Flemings planted at Surat have obtained a phirmaund upon almost
as good terms as the English, though he did his endeavours to cross
them. Connok got hold of Roe's letter to the Shah of Persia, and
used it as his own ; the substance of which was not to make any
sudden conclusion with the Portugals, but to offer in general terms
the English shipping upon the Persian coast. What Roe has done
in reformation of particular wrongs and recovering of debts. There
is no place of security up the river of Surat to land goods ; they
must stick to Swally Road. Great mortality among the landmen
this year ; fears greater in time to come. A peace with the Portugals
the best service Roe could do the Company ; made an
overture to the Viceroy, which his pride never answered ; since then
the English have given them a knock or two, and at this instant
Roe is in hopes of a treaty ; but that the Company may understand
the true state of this business, gives a full account of all the passages.
Has tried many ways to force the Portugal to a peace ; finds
the best to be chastizing their neighbours for their sakes. The loss,
hazard, and inconvenience the Company sustain by the stay of their
fleets ; dares promise to provide their lading by October, and so
they shall prevent the Portugal, who cannot be fit for an attempt
two months after. April and March the seasons to buy. The
remainder of the old stock very great. As to the future lading of
the ships. Whatever discontents Roe took were soon digested ; the
place provides him daily with new to put out the old. Never
desired to know any of the Company's secrets in trade but for their
good ; is satisfied with their opinion of him, and shall, he doubts not,
fulfil part of theirs to him ; a little experience will confirm both.
Banggam's service ; every man seeks his own preferment ; his
factory upon good reasons, has been dissolved, so could not deny
his desire to return, though a very good servant and an honest man.
As to the Company's doubts of Roe's providence and thrift in regard
to his servants. Difficulty of suppressing private trade, which hath
gotten such head last year. The master of the Globe then ran riot.
Large investments by Mitford. The powers given to Capt. Keeling ;
the care with which Roe has been entrusted he will use with modesty
and take no more upon him than is fit. Kerridge quick, and will
do them great service, he could not now be spared ; is engaged to
assist him in any of the Company's good intents towards him.
Browne well contented with his first agreement ; he is an honest
man, and Roe hopes he will hearken to his advice for contracting
his expenses. Fettiplace a most discreet good servant, and is now
with only one other at Agra ; the Company have not a better servant ;
his desire for increase of wages. Next year the Company
will see what Agra will afford. Persia has taken many of the Company's
supplies last year and this. Most of their old servants
ready to return. Biddulph follows the court by reason of the many
debts. Suggestions as to the colours, price, and sale of cloth. What
has been begun in Persia should not now be given over, though
begun imperfectly ; remarks thereon ; doubtless, if to be done, it is
the best trade in all India ; can see no way sure but a composition
in Spain, which to Roe's poor understanding his Majesty's
authority might effect, though Roe knows not by what pretence
the King of Spain can prohibit the Company trade in a free
Prince's country to which he hath no pretence. The means to
furnish this trade will not arise from England ; it is folly to
deceive with hopes that will fail. Commodities which will sell
well. Distate of the Grand Signor, who doubtless will seek to
hinder the passage of the Persian commerce by sea. Steele is
settled upon waterworks, rather for his own ends than any profit
to the Company. Will do his best to settle this trade, if he may
do it upon such grounds as he may have credit by. Has written
at large to Sec. Win wood on the point of the peace and all else
that may help the Company. Steele's other projects will be found
in letters to the Company. Concerning the bringing of goods by
the Indus to Lahore, an old project very hard to be effected.
Twenty thousand camels pass yearly by Lahore from Agra and other
parts with spices, indigo, sugar, and goods for Persia. Advantages
of having the trade of Persia free and the Portugals friends.
Steele's proceedings ; has bound his wife to Mistress Towerson at
her suit ; was resolved to send her home, but she hath one child
sucking and, as they say, forward of another, it were unfit to
send her home alone among men. Steele's private trade ; he laid
his own plot well, having stole a painter [Hatfield] on board at
the Downs, who is bound to him for seven years, and is a very
good workman both in lymning and oil ; they are to divide
profits, as also he and his smith, who makes clocks. Dares not
send the painter home for fear of the King's displeasure. Towerson
and his wife find poor reception ; her friends are poor and
mean, and weary of them ; he came with hopes of great diamonds ;
is sorry for him and his little vanity, and has used his best
advice to persuade his return ; he pretends the Company's licence
for private trade. Evils of granting this favour ; it makes all
their servants grudge. Mrs. Hudson claims the like for her proportion,
but has also denied her ; is the same to man and woman.
Exaggerated report of Capt. Hawkins' money ; it has fallen from
2,000 to 200 rupees, and is not worth recalling. Remarks on the
presents sent ; things not worth what they were, the Company's
ships have made all things common ; they imitate everything the
English bring, and embroider now as well as the English.
Thanks for the tokens sent him, their love to him is sufficient
present. Was fully resolved to return by this fleet, but their
earnest desire prevails above his own occasions ; he will not fail
them in his utmost endeavours. Shall take their offer to return
next year in one of their ships, and to command her. There
were never fairer words and less faith among the Cretans than
in these people. The Company may sell 50,000l. of the jewels
specified by him yearly for ready money, and their free recourse
be desired by the King and Prince and great men, and if they
are pleased the cry of a million of subjects would not be heard.
Advice as to the supply, &c., of commodities. These seas begin
to be full of rovers ; Sir Robt. Rich and one Philip Barnardoe
set out two ships to take pirates, which is grown a common pretence
for being pirates ; they missed their entrance to the Red
Sea, and gave chase to the Queen Mother's junk, and had not
the English fleet arrived would have taken and rifled her.
Remarks on the danger that would have ensued had the design
succeeded, and how Sir Robert and the others should be dealt
with. As to the Dutch, who wrong the Company in all parts,
and grow to insufferable insolencies. Advises the Company never
to join stock with them to profit and loss, for their garrisons,
charges, and losses by negligence will engage the Company to
bear part of their follies for no profit ; "but your accord must be
by a stint at those parts common to you both and agreement to
what ports you may resort without offence one to the other. If they
keep you out of the Moluccas by force, I would beat them from
Surat to requite it. In both these I have been large to Mr. Secretary
and some of the Lords, that they may have feeling of
the injuries and be assistant to you." Arrival from Ispahan of
a footman from Edw. Connok with letters ; remarks on Connok
opening and suppressing the contents of Roe's letters. Has this
day received news from Ormuz of a revolt of all the Mahometans
subject to the Portugals ; if it be not suddenly appeased, it may
occasion the Shah to take the fort into his hands, which by a little
help from the English might easily be effected. Audience refused
to the new pretended Spanish ambassador, principally because his
presents were not of great value, but by a later pretence because he
was no right ambassador and had no letters from the King of Spain,
but had come suddenly from Damaun, a city of the Portugals, the
new Viceroy of which could neither prepare a fit present nor letters.
Concerning Steele, who follows the court with as great expense and
as many servants as Roe. Sends copy of the will of William
Hempsale, the King's coachman, who is dead ; he formerly served the
Bishop of Chichester, Dr. Overall. Commendations of Mr. Young.
Has sent his servant, Ed. Haynes, as one of the merchants, which he
hopes the Company will consent to. Is forced to send home Wallys
and others who have disorders. Progress of the King ; he is good
to Roe ; his son lately better, who is absolute King ; he has granted
Roe a few privileges, and reconfirmed their trade and liberties
at Surat, but will hear of no more ports. Is so weary of the ways
of this court, which are governed by no rule, that he opens to the
Company his full resolution. Assurances of his affection and right
and honest services. [Seventeen pages and a quarter. Indorsed,
"Received 4 January 1618-9." O.C., Vol. V., No. 610.]
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Feb.?
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268. Sir Thos. Roe to the East India Company. Answers
to Steele's projects concerning the discovery of a port in the
Gulf of Persia, where one ship may safely ride. The trade between
Scinde and Ormuz ; the great profit to be made on spices sent to
Persia from the south ; the trade of the Guzerats in the Red
Sea ; and how there can be any profit from the projected waterworks.
Would have sent home Hatfield, the painter, but Steele
would not then have followed the business, and may have complained
to the King "that I cross his pleasure in painting."
Steele avows that he came out with the Company's consent and
privity, allowed by Mr. Salmon, and that no waterworks can be
made without him ; but Roe knows his drift and will prevent him.
[Two pages. O.C., Vol. V., No. 611.]
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Feb. ?
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269. Sir Thos. Roe to Thos. Kerridge. Has received his of
21st January. Understands his conclusions as to the Red Sea, and
it seems Kerridge thinks Dabul will vent all his dead commodities ;
remarks thereon. Would make prize of the [Guzerat] allies
of their enemies ; if the English do not, the Dutch will ; had
rather the English began to compel these allies to take them for
their protectors than another, by which the English will hinder
and bridle the Portugal of his profits and force them to some
composition. "Now he lets us rust and decay in reputation
while he gets credit and heart." The company of our ships will
awe the Guzerats, as I have often urged, and make them see our
friendship necessary to them, for my opinion is we cannot hold
long in peace with them. Reasons why Roe advises the taking
of any junk or ship of Diu. Suggestion for the disposal of the
ships ; the James for the south, the Bull for Sumatra, the Gift
for England, Capt. Shilling, and the Ann, for the new voyage, and
the Bee, if she arrive in safety, to attend the Admiral. Will send
no commission for discourtesy's sake. Two things considered ;
what merchants are fittest and what kind of trade to use. Steele
intrigued in a work without end. Thinks Monox fit for the chief
with two assistants. Not only approves the dissolving of the
Burrampoor factory, but has ordered their sales and dispatch down,
which Roe desires Kerridge to second effectually. Ahmedabad is
cloyed. Masulipatam corresponding with Bantam ; cannot expect a
ship from them, the season is late and Roe's counsel good. Agra
shall have four, the two now remaining and Biddulph, who must
settle there for the King is removing ; Banggam might also be sent
thither. If Steele make a waterwork it must be in Agra. Agrees
to Kerridge's motion for employing Rastell, Martin, and others ;
well approves of Martin's employment in Baroach. Consents to
Banggam's return as merchant of -. [Fragment. Four
pages. O.C., Vol. V., No. 612.]
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Feb. 14.
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270. Sir Thos. Roe to Capt. Pring. All the papers from Persia
directed to Pring and Kerridge returned by the same messenger, and
Roe's proposal to relieve the factory speedily if it may be done, and
the entrance to the Red Sea not lost. Has sent instructions for the
voyage to the Red Sea, to which Kerridge must add his for merchandizing
affairs, and deliver goods to Pring to begin their trade.
Answers objections. Thinks Jask and the Red Sea of most
consequence. A ship shall be as soon laden from hence and upon
the old joint stock as she can be from Bantam. To the objection
that the Grand Signor "will embarque our English in his
dominions for our molesting his trade, to which I say we go to
offer peace, to secure his seas, and not to disturb any but our
enemies that deny us trade." In the Red Sea the English will best
make the Guzerat understand their danger and the benefit of the
offer of the English. "If we are so jealous of our friends at Constantinople,
how can we proceed in Persia ?" Advice for the disposal
of his fleet ; how the inconveniences which have arisen this year may
in future be avoided. Concerning the junks of Diu and Mocrob
Khan. "The women are almost arrived at court, but I hope I shall
depart this town before." Directions about a box of letters and
toys for England for Sir Thos. Smyth ; commends the charge of
another to Banggam. Has long expected Mr. Cooke ; thanks him
for the surgeon. Assurances of his affection ; "I have loved you seven
years . . . . We live in a barbarous, unfaithful place ; you in
the sea, with more security and constancy. Pray for us, that God
will be pleased to keep us, that among heathens we may be as light
in darkness, at least that we shame not the light. . . . . All
the blessings that attended Jacob when he went out with a staff
and returned with troops of servants and herds of cattle accompany
you, that in the seas you may find Machinma [Mahanaim], and at
your return Bethel." In a postscript Roe takes leave of Capt. Newse,
Copeland, Coytmore, and others. In favour of John Hatch. Perceives
by his letters just received that it was impossible to supply Jask,
and so that unfortunate business must lie in its wounds until better
occasion. Has sent a declaration and instructions to the Red Sea.
Is well assured of Capt. Shilling's sufficiency. Knows not how
Rastell can be spared. Hopes his servant Haynes will, prove diligent
and honest. The Company will be weary of this trade at this
expense, and Roe knows not how to help it, but agrees to the
necessity of the ship for England. Begs him, in the name of justice,
not to suffer Roe to be abused by slanderous knaves who he has fed
and kept from the gallows. All the wrong Roe has done the
surgeon is to suffer him, by a plot of Biddulph's, to receive his whole
pay in the country and to cheat up and down ; has found him a
drunken, perjured, malicious knave, no surgeon, but a mountebank
impostor, and demands justice from him if he will make no public
recantation. Desires that Hill, who is an idle boy, may have "at
the mainmast three barricoes of water poured in his neck." Wonders
to see Goulding here. Gave consent for the rest to Mistress Steele
but never for the minister ; now her husband discovers himself,
but one of them must break in this business. Expects to hear
from him no more, for the King is entering into the woods. "The
God of heaven bless you and all your company, and send me once
more to live among men of honesty." [Four pages. O.C., Vol. V.,
No. 613.]
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Feb. 15.
The Camp of
the Great
Mogul.
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271. Sir Thos. Roe to the King. His Majesty's reception of his
Travels has given him new life and quickened him almost in the grave.
The result of the negotiation with Persia is that the Shah has sent
his Majesty a very noble letter, with ample privileges for quiet commerce
to the King's subjects. There are yet many difficulties
unconsidered, which forbid him to give judgment either of the
convenience or possibility of this trade. He delivered to the Mogul
his Majesty's letters and presents, which were received with as much
honour as their barbarous pride and customs afford. He has sought
to maintain upright his Majesty's greatness and dignity, and withal
to effect the ends of the merchant, but these two sometimes cross
one another. The Mogul has written his Majesty a letter full of
good words but barren of all true effect. He will not suffer his
Majesty's name to be diminished for any consideration, and will
establish by courtesy for his subjects as good terms for their traffic as
any strangers or "naturals, or teach them by force to acknowledge
his Majesty lord of all the seas, which this King cannot yet see for
swelling." The Portugal is not wise enough to know his own
weakness ; the want of peace makes the trade to India and hopes of
one to Persia dangerous and heavy to the undertakers. [One
page. East Indies, Vol. I., No. 58.]
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Feb. 15.
Ahmedabad.
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272. Wm. Biddulph to the East India Company. They will
perceive, by his last by the Globe, what goods were sent to the court
last year and the sales that were made. Since the arrival of the
fleet, has had little advice from any of the factories, all business and
letters being addressed to the Lord Ambassador (Roe), who will
acquaint any with what and when he pleaseth. Excuses himself for
not being able "at first sight" to answer all the particulars of their
letter, having but once had the perusal of it from his lordship. Goods
sent to the Lascar all directed to Roe. As to the sale of the pearls.
The hangings and greatest part of the rich embroidered goods given
to the King, Prince, Aseph Khan, &c., with the pictures, globes, and
knives. Strong waters not in request ; glass for windows not worth
anything, being of no use here. The cochineal sent enough for two
or three years, and will not yield the price it cost in England. Worth
of other commodities. Enumerates goods which are not needed for
another year and those fittest for the court. The debts at court
slow in coming in by reason of the King's never resting long together
in one place. Had hoped to have come home in this ship, his seven
years time being near expired. Richard Steele, his wife, and his projects.
Sir Thos. Roe's expenses. Is bound to follow the King ; now
is the worst and hottest time of all the year. Death of Wm. Hemsall,
the King's coachman, on 11th present. [Two pages and three quarters.
Indorsed, "Received by the Bull, 13 Feb. 1618-9." O.C., Vol. V.,
No. 614.]
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Feb. 15.
Firando.
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273. Richard Cocks to the East India Company. His last was
of the 1st Jan. 1617 [see ante No. 1]. Has since received their letters
by the Advice, which arrived at Firando 2nd Aug. 1617, with advice
of the receipt of his letters of 10th December 1614, and directions
to attempt trade once more to Cochin China ; to dispose of large
quantities of broadcloth even at a lower rate than before ; to
procure a sale for sandal wood, skins, &c., to be brought from other
factories, so as to furnish good store of silver, which the Company
are informed abounds in Japan ; for, except upon the hopes of purchasing
trade into China, there is small encouragement to maintain
a factory in Japan ; that the Company had procured his Majesty's
letter to the King of China, and sent as presents his own and other
pictures and some scarlet cloth. Also touching the purchase of the
junk ; a supposed error in his accounts ; the supplying of patterns
of all dyeing stuffs used in Japan ; and the appointment of Edw.
Connok about the Company's business in China. Result of an
attempt at trade in Cochin China ; Ed. Sayer going with a cargo of
goods in a junk belonging to Wm. Addames. Endeavours of Sayer
and Addames to find out the truth of Peacocke's death ; he was
murdered by a Japan, his host, with the consent of some of the
chief men about the King, and it is said the young Prince was of
their council. The old King knows nothing but that Peacocke was
cast away by chance or misfortune ; the great men and his host
shared all the money and goods of the Hollanders as well as of the
English, who were all slain together in one small boat. Peacocke's
ill behaviour partly the cause of it ; the King used him kindly and
gave him large privileges to trade in his dominions ; how Peacocke,
being in drink, tore up these privileges and cast them under his
feet, with other matters which much estranged the people's hearts
from him and were the chief occasion of his death. Addames and
Sayer very earnest to have speech with the King, but when he
knew they would bring in question Peacocke's murder, "he being
guilty of it," put them off, and had they not left they would doubtless
have been murdered also ; the treacherous host fled in a boat with a
company of slaves and was driven on the coast of China, where they
had all their throats cut. Things Cocks lent to Peacocke when he went
for Cochin China, which Cocks requests may be kept from Peacocke's
wages. Walter Carwarden said to have carried away all the goods
and money which Peacocke left behind ; "at least, they can understand
of nothing which may be recovered, for there is no news of
Walter Carwarden, so that out of doubt he is cast away." Goods
returned from Cochin China by Edmund Sayer ; money stolen from
him ; the Mandarin has promised to recover it. Thinks of sending
Sayer again this year with Robt. Hawley, and to adventure two
thousand tais in refined plate to buy silks with ; is the more willing
to do this the Chinas having hired Wm. Addames to go pilot in
their junk, and the King of Cochin China having given the English
large privileges to trade in his country, with offer of anything they
desire, only he requests a piece of brass ordnance given to him, and
asks no other custom ; the Hollanders have already given him a
demi culverin of brass. The quantity of broadcloth and cloth of
India that will be vented in this place. As to what the Company
direct may be sent to China. Hears nothing as yet of the King's
or of any other picture, neither has he seen any sort of wood called
sandal, but has only received red wood and deer skins from Siam.
Is of the same opinion as the Company, "that except we procure
trade into China it will not quite cost to maintain a factory in
Japan, for now it is worse than ever, we being debarred of our trade
into all places of Japan, only Firando and Nangasaki excepted,
and to have our shipping only to come to Firando." Has been
again this year, in company with Wickham and Addames, to the
Emperor's court, hoping to get their privileges enlarged ; their
presents received as from his Majesty, including a "scritoris," with
gloves, mittens, looking glass, and other silver implements in it,
with many complimentary words, but in the end were answered
they had as large privileges as any other strangers, wherewith they
might rest contented, or if they found not trade to their content
they might depart when they pleased, and seek better in another
place. To his request for an answer to his Majesty's letter it was
answered that the letter was sent to Ogusho Same the deceased
Emperor, and therefore held ominous among the Japans to answer
dead men's letters. To assurances that the English had no acquaintance
with the priests or padres, they were told that was all one ;
the Emperor would have his own vassals to get the benefit to bring
merchandize rather than strangers ; so now it has come to pass,
as Cocks feared, that a company of rich usurers have got this
sentence against them. The Portugals have no privileges, only a
monsoon trade. Has used his best endeavours to procure trade
into China, yet matters have fallen out so contrary that nothing
is effected, through the pillaging of China junks by the Hollanders
under the name of English, instances of which Cocks details ; whenever
the trade is effected it must be in Cocks' name, as his China
friends tell him. Desires to return to his native country, for he
finds he has ill-willers, who go about to disgrace him, as Ball,
who last year detained his books of accounts, and Jourdain. As
to the junk having been bought at too dear a rate. Shoby Dono's
junk, supposed to have been lost last year, wintered in Chiampa,
and arrived at Firando with the first monsoon. Money received
on Benj. Farie's account. The junk Sea Adventure returned again
for Siam, Wm. Eaton commander and Jas. Burgess pilot ; her
cargo. In answer to a supposed error in his accounts, according
to the advice of Geo. Ball. Remarks on the wills of Barkeley, the
late agent at Bantam, and Baylie, who came over merchant in the
Thomas and died at Firando, leaving Totten and Osterwick his
overseers ; "dead men many times are said to be poor, especially those
which die far from their country." Sent last year a piece of the
right root which is sold for its weight in silver ; that which came
from the Cape was dried up and worth nothing. Capt. Addames
expected General Keeling's coming to have conferred about the
discovery to the northward ; it is reported that the Hollanders
pretend to take the matter in hand and to employ Addames,
Five great Holland ships arrived this year at Firando, the Sun,
Red Lion, Flushing, Black Lion, and a galliasse ; they report ten
sail of tall ships at the Moluccas, for the purpose of seeking out
Don John de Silva's fleet and to fight with the Spaniards at
their arrival. Great cruelties to the Chinas, their junks seized,
pillaged, and then set on fire by the Hollanders. Fight between
the Holland and Spanish fleets ; the Admiral of the Hollanders,
the New Sun, sunk and two other ships burnt, without any loss
of shipping on the Spaniard's side. Resolution by the Hollanders
that their ships which remained should save themselves, one of
which, the old Sun, went to Japan with John Derickson Lamb.
The Red Lion and the Flushing, after fighting with a Spanish
ship, brought two China junks fully laden to Xaxma, where the
King would not let them stay, being no friend to the Hollanders ;
no news heard of them since. Complaint of the Spaniards,
Portuguese, and Chinese to the Emperor against the Hollanders
as common thieves or pirates, in which they would have included
the English, but the Emperor answered "he would not make nor
meddle in other men's matters." The Chinese persisted in having
restitution from the Hollanders for taking their goods without
law or justice, but the Emperor said, "If they had taken you
within the precincts of my dominions, or that any of you had
gone under my pass or protection, then would I have made them
do you right." Vile usage of both Hollanders and English by
the Japans at Firando ; Cocks obliged to tell the Emperor's
council that the English were not misused as the Hollanders
were, or the debts had been lost. Great sales by the Hollanders
through giving great presents to all the council. The Black
Lion, of 1,000 tons, sent away, fully laden with silk and stuffs
for Bantam ; the Flushing, of 700 tons, sent to the Moluccas ;
disposition of the rest of the Holland ships. Broil between a
Portuguese carac and some Japanese, in which one or two of
the latter were slain. The Tono or King of Umbra, had ordered
three or four Lascars or slaves to be executed, which it was
thought better men deserved. Indignities offered by the Hollanders
to the English, in "an island" taken possession of in the
King's name ; they "pulled down the [English] colours, tore them in
pieces in disdain, and wiped their backsides with the pieces." Those
who saw this done reported it to Cocks. Ship set out for discovery
by certain merchants of Amsterdam "found a passage in 58 degrees
to the southward of the Straits of Magellan, not a narrow long
strait, as Magellanus is, but after they entered came into a large
sea, and so passed about Nova Guinea and came to the Moluccas,
where the President of the Hollanders seized on the ship and men,
for that they came not out under licence of the Winthebbers or
Holland company." The Chinese lately begun to trade with the
islands Fermosa, but none but small shipping can enter. Whether
he should accept an offer to trade. Has previously made this
demand of the Company, but had no answer. Has received two
letters from his Majesty to the King of China, sent from Bantam by
Mr. Ball, one in friendly sort, the other some stricter terms. Ball
writes that no Chinese at Bantam dare either translate them, or
carry them when translated, upon pain of their lives and ruin of all
their generation. Their China friends, Andrea Dittis and Capt. Whaw,
will not only translate them but send them by such as will see them
delivered, but they are of opinion not to send the threatening letter,
for they are assured there will nothing be done with the King (of
China) by force ; Peacocke's threatening speeches made him and the
English nation worse thought of and brought him to his end. Will
soon go to Nangasaki and see Ed. Sayer dispatched away towards
Cochin China, and take counsel with these China friends to get his
Majesty's letter translated into Chinese and sent away. All the
silk sold and the prices ; no present given to the King or his officers.
Suggestions for the transportation of goods to different places.
Employment of shipping to Siam ; impossible to send shipping from
Bantam to touch at Patani and Siam and then sail for Japan ; and
to send a ship directly for Cochin China would require a great
stock and most part ready money, otherwise silk cannot be bought.
As to Addames' debt of 50l. to the Company, who gives many
thanks for the care they have had of his wife. His desire to have
gone for England this year, but the Chinas earnest to have him go
pilot for Cochin China. Ambassadors from the King of Corea to
the Emperor of Japan were attended by about 500 men and were
royally entertained, by the Emperor's command, by all the Tonos or
Kings of Japan through whose territories they passed, and at the
public charge ; they dined at the Emperor's table and were served
by all the Tonos of Japan, every one having a head attire of a
reddish colour with a little mark of silver like a feather in it ;
Addames was present. Endeavoured to gain speech with the
Ambassadors, but was unsuccessful, the King of Tushma the cause,
he fearing that the English might procure trade if Cocks got acquainted
with the ambassadors. His answer to the Japan lords who wished
to know why he sought acquaintance with such barbarous people.
The elephants' teeth all sold. Great charge of sending shipping to
Siam. Suggestions for avoiding the sending of money from Japan to
Siam, Camboja, and Chiampa. Concerning money due to Benjamin
Farie before his death. The dangerous sickness of [Capt. John]
Totten caused his stay at Firando last year. As to the cargo of goods
sent from Siam, also Capt. Jourdain's account. Expenses of Richard
Wickham, Wm. Eaton, Edmond Sayer, and John Osterwick.
Cannot trust their cloth to Japans to sell. The three thousand taels
borrowed last year of the Chinas, to pay 20 per cent, interest, has
been repaid. The King of Firando has paid two thousand taels in
money and rice out of the three thousand he owed. His frequent
journeys to the Japan court hinder him considerably, in matters of
account especially. [Eighteen pages. Indorsed, "Received the
6th November 1619, by the Little James." O.C., Vol. V., No.
615.]
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Feb. 15.
Firando.
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274. Abstract of letter from R. Cocks, agent for the East India
Company in Firando. The manner of the Emperor's acceptance of
the King's letter, and the present delivered in his Majesty's name he
very kindly accepted, but denied to renew privileges taken away in
his late father's time, saying the English had as many as any other
strangers. Describes the entertainment of ambassadors coming to
condole for his father's death and to congratulate him on his
accession to the crown, and the presents they brought, 100 falcons
and 100 tiger skins. Relates divers fights by sea betwixt the
Spanish and Dutch fleets in those parts ; and outrages and cruelties
of the Dutch to the Chinese, giving themselves out to be Englishmen
so as to lay the imputation upon the English nation ; their many
injuries to the English nation and opprobrious and insufferable
behaviour to the King's sacred person. Describes the great
superiority of the Daire or chief priest over the Emperor to that of
the Pope over any prince in Christendon. [One page. East Indies,
Vol. I., No. 60.]
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Feb. 15.
Firando.
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275. Rich. Cocks to Geo. Ball at Bantam. Has received his
letters from Rich. Wickham by the Advice. As to the death of
Capt. Barkeley ; believes it is more trouble to keep the accounts of
the factory of Firando than of Bantam ; the lading of ebony for the
Hollanders in the Osiander ; the death of Damyan and the honesty
of other Spaniards ; and the favour Cocks has shown to Andrea
Dittis and his brother, Captain Whaw ; these do not find it a matter
of such great difficulty as it seems the Chinese do at Bantam to
translate the King's letters to the Emperor of China, they having
promised to translate and send them. Touching the opinion of
the Company that the Japan factory should furnish the factory at
Bantam and all other factories in India with silver and send an
overplus to England ; the advice of General Sayer to send iron to
Japan ; and Cocks informing Capt. Saris that silks were to be had in
abundance at Siam and Patani. As to privileges for trade in Japan,
the English have as large as any others. Money transactions with
the China Captain Andrea Dittis and Wickham. Ball's judgment
of the trade with Japan, Siam, and Cochin China. Account of the
lading of the Thomas from Japan to Bantam. Reasons for the
hasty departure of Wm. Eaton for Siam and his dealings for the
late [John] Baylie for which Ball thinks Cocks will not pass
blameless without giving a better account thereof. As to Ball's
taxing him with speaking well of Capt. Saris and Peacocke, and
keeping back his (Cocks') books of account, and Cocks writing
in commendation of Andrea Dittis the China captain and
W. Eaton, and saying that Ed. Sayer was the best pilot to save
junks and goods. The Hollanders give out in all places where they
rob that they are Englishmen, which reports have reached China.
Replies to Ball's charges that Cocks gave passage to Chinese to
trade to and fro in English shipping to the prejudice of the East
India Company. Is of opinion that their Japan trade is at the
best which is "starknaught" except entrance into China be
purchased, Cocks' only hope. The junk from Siam which was
thought to have been cast away has arrived, as also the junk Sea
Adventure. If Ball thinks fit the factories of Siam, Camboja, and
Chiampa may be supplied yearly from hence. The junk set forth
last year by Addames in which Ed. Sayer sailed was chiefly to
learn the truth of Peacocke's death, there having been so many
contrary reports, but now it is known for a truth that he was
treacherously murdered by means of his host a Japan, yet not
without the privity of the King's chief man or secretary, and it is
thought the young prince had a hand in it but the old King knows
nothing of it and thinks Peacocke was cast away by casuality.
Addames and Sayer did their best to get speech with the King but
were not permitted, and had they ventured to go to Court they
would have been murdered by the way as Peacocke was. This year
Sayer goes again [to Cochin China] accompanied by Robt. Hawley
to buy silk. All their silk, deer skins, and red wood sold, and some
broad cloth ; the prices. Went this year to the Japan Court
accompanied by Wickham and Addames to endeavour to procure
greater privileges but was told that their privileges were as great as
other strangers'. Five great Holland ships arrived this year from
the Manillas where they had a bickering with the Spaniards who
got the best of it, the Hollanders losing three ships and the
Spaniards one. The Hollanders did not leave empty handed in
spite of the petitions of the Spaniards, Portuguese, and Chinese to
the Emperor against them, but the Hollanders have got enough to
make war these seven years. The Flushing left a month past for
the Moluccas fully laden with provisions and much ready money.
The Sea Adventure sailed for Siam in January last, with Eaton,
chief commander, and Jas. Burgis, pilot ; her lading. Thanks for
the two English chronicles sent by Wickham. Presents he sends to
Ball. Incloses copies of letters he has received from Siam, Camboja,
and Chiampa, and invoice of goods received by the Sea Adventure
[wanting]. Debts due to the factory from their host of Osaka, the
King of Firando, and others. [Fourteen pages. Indorsed, "Copy
of his letter written to Geo. Ball in Bantam ; small matters concerning
the Company but questions between themselves." O. C.,
Vol. V., No. 616.]
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