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Sept. 28-
Oct. 1.
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748. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Letter read
from John Browne, factor at Ahmedabad, dated 25 January last,
making a large relation of their proceedings there, some condemned
absolutely untrue by Sir Thos. Roe, who desired the Company to
forbear their censures until his writings might be perused, whereby
the malice and pride of John Browne should plainly be discovered ;
Sir Thos. Roe of opinion nevertheless that Browne is a very honest
and just man to the Company, and one that will not deceive them.
Sir Thos. Roe's papers and accounts to be kept apart in a chest.
Mrs. Hudson, a gentlewoman that had leave to accompany Mrs.
Towerson to the Indies, to pay freight for her goods brought
home.
Oct. 1.-William Baffyn, a master's mate in the Anne, to have a
gratuity for his pains and "good art" in drawing out certain "plots"
of the coast of Persia and the Red Sea, which are judged to have
been very well and artificially performed ; some to be drawn out by
Adam Bowen for the benefit of such as shall be employed in those
parts. Fourpence a month to be deducted from the mariners' wages
and reserved for the relief of poor maimed or necessitous men that
have served the Company. Consideration as to the victualling and
despatch of the fleet, and the suspicion that the Portugals "will
attempt this year against the English." Some question of the sincerity
of the Dutch, as if it were doubtful whether they would
perform truly and justly according to the capitulations made between
the English and them ; the Governor produced a letter, sent by the
States to his Majesty, which fully confirmed the Hollanders' purpose
to hold good correspondence with the English, but held to be a
business "fit to be kept secret without any public speeches to be
used." Mr. Boreel to give the Hollanders to understand that the
Company expect they should prepare some shipping in readiness to
go with the English shipping to Surat, "whereby their resolution
shall be the better known." The cordage from Muscovy, so much
commended, unfit for the Company's use, "having in it much stuff of
the Russes mingled with tow, which makes it weak, although it
showeth fair to the eye, being well layed and well tarred." Suggestions
for prevention of private trade. Relief out of the wages of
Thos. Jackson and John Sownd granted to the churchwardens and
overseers of the poor for the hamlet of Ratcliffe, for the benefit of
their motherless children. John Browne, carpenter in the Anne, a
very mutinous person, proud, and a ringleader, to be punished. The
letter of John Browne, factor at Ahmedabad, having been heard with
patience, was condemned as a most indiscreet, scandalous invective
against Sir Thos. Roe, and to be little better than a libel, for which
it is intended to send for him home and call him to account, holding
him worthy of punishment, and for Sir Thos. Roe's better satisfaction
endorsed their opinion upon the letter. Committee to be appointed
to confer with Sir Thos. Roe and hear his propositions and answers
of what may be needful to be known. Nicholas Crispe to be purser
of the London. [Three pages and a half. Court Bk. IV., 416-419.]
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Oct. 2.
London.
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749. Chamberlain to Carleton. Sir Thos. Roe has presented the
King with two antelopes, a strange and beautiful kind of red deer,
a rich tent, rare carpets, umbrellas, and such like trinkets from the
Great Mogul. Hears that Roe has not provided so well for himself
as was thought at first, but must rely upon the Company's liberality.
Has little acquaintance with any of the Company, but will set Sir
Dudley Diggs on work, who is gracious among them and understands
their courses, and who Chamberlain knows will be ready to
do any good office in whatever may concern Carleton. [Extract
from Domestic Corresp. Jac. I., Vol. CX., No. 94, Cal., p. 82.]
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Oct. 6-8.
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750. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Thos. Thornborough
to be a purser, and Thos. Country purser's mate. Suit of the
widow of one Clements, who died at St. Helena, about freight of her
late husband's goods. Letter read from Sec. Naunton to the Governor,
with complaint preferred by the Spanish agent against this Company
for supposed robberies, and surprising certain of their ships in the
Indies, whereunto his Majesty required the Company's answer, that
accordingly he may frame his to the King of Spain and his agent ;
their boldness and baseness wondered at. Committee appointed to
make a collection of the wrongs and losses sustained by the Company,
whereby they are put to a charge of 60,000l. a year to defend themselves
and maintain their trade, and thereout to frame an answer to
Mr. Secretary for his Majesty to see, who, as is conceived, will be
pleased with a large answer, although some advised to have it a
brief and round answer. Relation by Sir Thos. Roe of his proceedings
since his going into the East Indies, the desperate state in
which he found the factories at Surat, Ahmedabad, and elsewhere in
the Mogul's country, the proclamations out against the English to
prohibit them from all trade and to depart the land, and how
at his first coming to Court he caused them to be revoked, and
procured phirmands to command their acceptance and friendly
entertainment, proving against the Prince himself that those things
had been done without authority from the King, and by wicked
subornation to have overthrown the trade of the English ; how by
fair and gentle courses their business may be as fairly carried on as
can be expected or desired ; the profits to be had by trade into
the Red Sea, cent. per cent. at the worst ; 10,000l. worth of commodities
from Surat, and 30,000l. worth from Dabul and the ports
thereabouts, may be sold there ; the dangers of those of Surat, without
the company of the English, trading to the Red Sea, where there is
trade, it is said, for two millions yearly; to supply Mocha and Sinan
(Sana) will be the life of the Surat and Persia trade, which Roe
hopes the Company will be careful to preserve and continue,
notwithstanding the discouragement that may be objected by the
factors at Surat, who are very unwilling to have that trade prosper ;
the extortions which have been exacted and Roe had recovered, and
the peaceable course in which he had left all matters, drawing out
21 articles, most of which the King confirmed, as well as sundry
phirmands for frigates to be delivered furnished to the English for
their defence against the Portugals, "who, as was delivered, were
preparing an armada against the English ;" how he recovered all
debts, leaving only one due from a Bayan who was the King's prisoner,
and in case of non-payment had promised to deliver him dead or
alive into their hands ; and lastly a list was read, prepared by Sir
Thomas, of the remainders in the country at his coming away, both
in specie, good debts, and commodities, and what is ordered to be
provided for the southwards, Persia and Mocha ; "this general
relation gave very good content and satisfaction." All his notes
and writings to be endorsed and kept in their several places, where
they may be found upon any occasion.
[Sir Thos. Roe's Journal of his Embassy to "the mighty Emperor
of India," containing an account of his voyage to that country,
from his Orig. MS., is printed in Churchill's and in Pinkerton's
Collections of Voyages.]
Oct. 8.-Special occasion of employment for well-experienced and
sufficient merchants. Edward Meade to be entertained, knowing
there will be need of sufficient men to make choice of calicoes, and
to be placed in the factories at the Moluccas, Calicut, and other
places. Note read from Edward Grant for preserving butter divers
years, boiled up with pepper, cloves, and some other things.
Sir Thos. Roe's project in all probability the better and sweeter
way. Journal of the voyage made by Capt. Shilling presented to
the Company. The principal mutinous persons in the Anne,
especially John Browne and Alexander Eward, two of the most notorious
offenders, to be punished, for example to others. Notice to be
given of the launch at Blackwall of the Exchange. Some hard stones
brought from Surat by the Anne for ballast, given "for the use of
the city to pave without Moorgate." An action to be entered
against William Angell for a debt due to the Company, and the
Governor to procure leave from the Lord Chamberlain, Angell being
one of the King's servants. Debts of Richard Sleigh, Francis Taylor,
Halsey, and Nethersoll. Suit of Gabriel Towerson, "an old servant
of theirs," about paying freight for his goods. Concerning a youth
left in India to attend upon Towerson's wife. Petition of Ralph
Harrys, surgeon in the Anne, for wages for his servant, "covertly
taken (into the ship) in the Downs." Suit of William Carmihell,
who has lived 32 years in the East Indies and knows all parts
between the Cape and Japan, for employment. Committee appointed
to consider about the exportation of calicoes by the Turkish merchants,
"so it may be done privately, and not brought to be publicly
argued." [Five pages. Court Bk. IV., 420-424.]
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Oct. 13.
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751. Minutes of a Court of Commissioners for the East India
and Muscovy Companies. Explanations of William Angell, the
King's fishmonger, concerning his own and his brother Robert's debt.
William Carmihell, a Scotchman, recommended by some great persons,
to be entertained on certain conditions. Concerning the Spanish
Agent's complaint, Secretary Calvert having written another letter
on that subject. [Half a page. Court Bk. IV., 425.]
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Oct. 15.
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752. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Request of Sir
Henry, son of Sir Robt. Lee, deceased, and married to the widow of
William Quarles, to have the adventures lately belonging to Quarles
turned over to his account, and to take up his freedom by patrimony ;
but being very ill and unable to stir abroad, Mr. Deputy
is requested to see the oath administered. The stones brought in
the Anne, provided they do not exceed the value of 5l., or 20 nobles,
to be given to pave by Moorgate for the use of the city. John
Woodhouse, a preacher, offering his services in the East Indies, and
commended by Dr. Hill and Mr. Meryall, requested to preach from
the 10th verse of the 50th Psalm at Dr. Wood's church. Courts to
meet three times a week, "until business be better overpassed and
the ships near their departure," and the Governor to entreat the
Committees to meet somewhat earlier. Concerning the sale of commodities
at the next general court. Agreement with Edward
Meade, factor, with a salary of 100l. per annum the first two years,
and 150l. the remaining five years. Salaries of factors in the Indies
to be increased according to their work, and referred to the
Committees for Commissions, who have already increased those of
Aldworthe, Fras. Fetiplace, and many others. Petition of Christopher
Greene, who went forth surgeon with Sir Thos. Roe and returned
in the Bull, but was discharged from the Company's service in the
Indies, for favour, Sir Thos. Roe pleading for him. Petition of Jas.
Demaistres, brewer, desiring favour to brew for the Company hereafter.
Information from Mr. Towerson that a merchant on the
Exchange taxed the Company for choosing an unfit person for a
factor ; to be inquired into. [Two pages and a half. Court Bk.
IV., 425-427.]
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Oct. 16.
Ispahan.
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753. Thos. Barker, Edw. Monox, Wm. Bell, and Thos. Barker,
jun., to the East India Company. Unavoidable necessity of Barker's
abode at Ispahan. Refer to their advices of 18 May last for their
progress in the Persian design. Awaited in Ispahan the arrival of
the Sophy, who, in June last, made his secret entry into this city by
private and unknown passages. Solicited audience to deliver his
Majesty's letters, "but the King, that he might the better divulge
and demonstrate the magnificent state of his court, deferred it until
he had prepared a princely and sumptuous banquet, whereto he
invited all foreign ambassadors resident in his Court, viz., the Spanish,
Indian, Turkish, Russian. Tartarian, and Uzebeck ambassadors,"
to which the writers were also invited and appointed to present his
Majesty's letters. This was performed with much ceremony, and
the letters were graciously accepted by the Sophy, "glorying no
doubt to have it published in an assembly of so many repugnant and
discrepant nations, that it hath pleased so potent and yet so far
remote and diffident a prince to direct his royal letters to him,"
which they saw delivered into the custody of one of his attending
nobles for translation at a convenient time. "The greatest
part of this day being spent in royal entertainments, intermixed
with divers extravagant and pleasant discourses, as it pleased his
Highness to offer the occasion." The Spanish Ambassador and
others left the presence, and the Sophy then had sole conference
with the writers. Complained of the injuries and losses they had
suffered, for which the Sophy seemed to make an apology for his people,
affirming that they were not acquainted with his pleasure, and that
the writers should never have the like cause of complaint. He
charged Emanguolique "(the super-eminent Duke in all the territories
of Persia)" to see the accomplishment of his princely promise,
and that he would not interfere in any way between the Portugals
and the English, affirming that his protection extended to neither of
them at sea. This was his answer also to a Carmelite friar, the Pope's
legate, who seemed to suggest that it was an impeachment of his royal
dignity to permit the surprise of his allies in his own ports ; but he
replied that our disunion was his rejoicing, for that if our forces were
united the whole world would be insufficient for us. The Sophy
voluntarily and solemnly vowed in this public assembly that he would
inviolably preserve every article contracted and concluded either
with his Majesty or the King of Spain, but this assurance he limited
to the term of his own life, not knowing, as he affirmed, what his
successors might do therein. He alleged, though most untruly,
that he had kept his compact and not permitted the export of his
silks through the Turkish territories, and that he expected corresponding
performance on the part of the English ; to which they
answered that the interception of their advices to England and other
parts had been the sole cause of their so tardy performance. Were
invited by the Sophy the same night to be spectators of interludes
and other pastimes, wherein the most part of the night being spent,
the Sophy departed. Great marks of favour shown by the Sophy to
them ; "sometimes he would secretly whisper unto us that he had
a resolution to take Ormuz from the King of Spain and deliver it
unto the English nation," and his fair promises, but contrary performances.
Death of Nich. Russell at Moghistan. Present given to
the Sophy ; his promise to send for them the next day and give
them a favourable hearing of whatever they had to propound, but
many days were spent in vain expectation, and he left on his hunting
progress without seeing them. Arrival of Thos. Barker (jun. ?) on
6 August with the Company's letters of 8 December 1618, not only
revoking the order for Barker's return to England, but increasing his
wages and establishing him in the place of Edw. Connok, deceased,
whose malicious slanders the Company had discovered. All differences
between himself and Edw. Monox long since accorded, since
the cause of their disunion is taken away by the shipping hence of
Edw. Pettus, who they have dismissed from the Company's service
for the reasons expressed in their several consultations. (See
April 4, 1619, p. 307.) Will attend to the orders to re-establish a
factory at Shiraz. Their demand for 600 great bales of silk to be
taken to the port, and promises not to ship any until sufficient money
and goods were landed for satisfaction, would not be granted, as the
Sophy alleged they had not yet performed any promise made to
him. The sorts and quantities of commodities advised to be sent
hither, which will sell in far greater quantities if the silks are taken
at the King's price. The poverty of the country will not vend one-third
of what was advised by Connok, unless the King urges
the sale. Arrival of Gyles Hobbs, by way of Russia, with the
Company's letters of 27 May 1618, in seventeen months ; his imprisonment
and detention the sole cause of his tardy coming ; the
journey may be performed in four or five months at most. Intend
sending him back the same way ; only detained him in expectation
of the arrival of the fleet. The King has granted them the sole
trade of silks by his gulf, "and hath signed the same with his royal
and imperial seal." Convenience of the port of Jask for shipping,
but they must come strong both in number, men, and munition, so as
to be able to defend themselves. They will have experience this
year of the port of Gombroon, which is eight days nearer Ispahan
than Jask. Have sold their goods to merchants and shopkeepers at
better prices than Lalabegg, the King's treasurer, would give in barter
for silk. The Armenians and others, who have in precedent times
exported Persian silks and other commodities by way of Turkey, and
thereby purchased great wealth, use all their endeavours to hinder the
English in their trade, and have offered the King 150,000l. sterling, or
a custom equal to 12d. sterling on every pound of 16 oz. of silk, "to
tolerate their former free commerce by land." The Portugals have
"caused a false fame to be bruited about by the friars here resident,"
that the King of Spain hath set forth a fleet with three millions of
crowns to buy the silks of Persia. Prices given by Connok. How the
King cunningly required to know what price they would give him for
his silk. Offer of the Armenians ; more than the writers would give ;
carpets, &c. denied them, to force them to give the King's price for
his silk, but they chose rather to make no return this year "than
to make so ill a precedent ;" so have only shipped home musters of
divers sorts of Persian stuffs. Believe the Armenians "were made
a stale" to induce them to offer as much. A profitable trade may
be made in Persia without dealing in silks. Privileges granted to
them by the King "(God grant performance) :" that they shall have
the whole trade of his gulf for silks ; that they may surprise
Portuguese ships ; that the ryal of eight shall be current at the mint
value, and not as heretofore at a sixth part thereof ; that the house
they live in be confirmed to them ; and that they may freely buy
silks of the King's subjects, "but the King's mind was too well known
and published, so that none durst make them any lower price
than the King had set." The Armenians will not take the silks at
the rate they offered, except the King's tyranny force them. It is
reported that he sends 100 loads to Venice to have returns in some
toys of Christendom which he desires. The two Portugal prizes
surprised last year valued at 1,800l. sterling. Prices of all goods sold,
which include broad cloths, pepper, cotton wool, ginger, tin, steel,
morse teeth, cochineal, quicksilver, and sword blades. Proceedings
of the Spaniards, and their propositions to the Sophy through Sir
Robert Sherley. The King of Spain's letters demanding the surrender
of the ports of Gombroon and Babareene so incensed the
Sophy that he rent the letters and swore the King of Spain should
no longer possess Ormuz, for he suspected the expected galleons were
not to transport his silks, but to make some fortification on. an
island adjacent to Ormuz. Great preparations by the Portugals at
Goa, to expel the English from Surat and Persia, "as they are
credibly informed by a Frenchman ;" the Viceroy has caused four
great ships to be built, and 200 pieces of ordnance to be cast for them,
and prepared "two Barkasses, esteemed by them impregnable, and
cannon free, each of them carrying only one piece of artillery for
battery, which beareth a shot whose diameter is 19 inches." Cause
of the late Wm. Robins' (servant to Arnold Lulls) indebtedness to the
Sophy ; the Company will be forced to pay ; inventory of his goods.
Arrival of George Strachan, a Scottish physician, who long lived
with Fyant, King of those Arabs who inhabit the desert, from the
confines of old Babylon to Aleppo, and was in such favour with the
King that he gave him his brother's widow to wife, but hearing that
it was the King's intention to force him to be of their diabolical
sect he fled to Bagdad, and has done the Company good service, also
in setting free Wm. Nealson ; have entertained him in the Company's
service at 16 ryals per month, not only as a physician, but for the
language in which he excels. [Endorsed, "Received 25 September
1620." Twelve pages. O. C., Vol. VII., No. 815.] Enclose,
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753. I. Minutes of Consultations held at Jask, Moghistan, Lar,
Shiraz, and Ispahan, between 13 December 1618 and 24
September 1619, as follows:-
1618, Dec. 13.-At Jask ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, and Wm. Bell, merchants. Certain goods in the Expedition,
consisting of 14,473 parcels of lead, china, and glass, to be left in
charge of the Governor as the King's goods, to whom the English
are indebted, to endeavour in the interim to procure his master's
licence to carry the goods into the castle. Presents of cotton wool
to be made to the Governor and "Callentar" of the castle.
1618, Dec. 23.-At Moghistan ; present, Thos, Barker, President,
Edward Monox, Edward Pettus, and Wm. Bell, merchants. A present
to be given at once to the Governor of Moghistan, to consist of sugar,
ginger, pepper, china dishes and cups, linens, and two Muscovy hides.
Concerning the restitution of certain money, belonging to Pettus and
Bell, found in the chest of Geo. Pley, after his decease, the President
suspended his opinion.
1619, Jan. 1.-At Moghistan ; present, as before. The Governor
Shehreyarie, notwithstanding the gratuity, would not permit their
departure ; resolved therefore to procure their freedom by making
the best conditions they could to his extortion. Not sufficient
money to pay for the hire of camels to transport the goods to Lar.
Monox with Pettus appointed to take hence a chest of silver ingots
to sell, Pettus to return with a supply of money, and Monox to
remain at Lar. Letter from the Sultan to his substitute, Governor
Cowrestan, to be procured to free the English from the accustomed
duties payable at Lar, and the King of Persia's capitulations and
phirmaunds to be produced to effect that object.
Jan. 16.-At Lar ; present, Edward Monox and Edward Pettus.
Account of the violent outrages they suffered on their arrival at Lar ;
although they presented the King of Persia's phirmaunds and
capitulations, they were threatened to be carried back, bound hand
and foot, to Minau, where Barker and Bell await money from them
to defray camel hire, and are now utterly destitute and unable to
send supplies to Minau. Reports of the imprisonment of Barker
and Bell, and the sequestration of all the Company's goods "till the
King's order be further known," and the consequent danger of the
overthrow of the whole trade, and the failure of any returns this
year ; resolution to purchase this Governor's favour, though to the
Company's loss, so as to procure the Khan's phirmaund for the release
of their fellow-servants and the Company's goods "from their
accustomed prison of Minau ;" if the Sultan's demand for licence to
sell their silver ingots be not consented to, and Shehreyarie's plot to
keep them without money and thereby make stay of their goods, be
not overthrown, it will give the Portugals time to procure from the
King the power to compel restitution to be made by the English for
goods taken from the Portugals. Letter from Monox and Pettus to
the Sultan of Lar, appealing for justice against the violence and
wrongs of their gaolers.
March 28.-At Shiraz ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, and Edward Pettus. Barker having desired to see a bundle
of papers which Pettus had brought out of the President's chamber
in a very suspicious manner, and hidden in his breeches or cod-piece,
they were ordered to be sealed up and given into the custody of
John Amy.
April 2.-At Shiraz ; present as before. Reciting a previous consultation
at Moghistan of 14 February last, when the President and
Bell agreed to give the Shehreyarie five per cent. custom upon all
goods ; which now upon their complaint to the Duke was wholly
remitted on condition of a gratuity to the Shehreyarie ; reasons for
consenting to the exorbitant gratuity demanded. Pettus to take
money to assist Bell to carry the Company's goods from Moghistan
to Lar, and there sell plate or other commodities to bring them to
Shiraz.
April 4.-At Shiraz ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, and John Amy. Pettus refusing the employment he
accepted on the 2nd, and declaring he would rather be dismissed the
Company's service, was dismissed accordingly, and John Amy
appointed to perform the service in his stead. The endeavours of
Pettus to breed confusion in the election of President a chief reason
for moving the Council so freely to dismiss him.
April 17.-At Ispahan ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, Wm. Robbins, Robert Giffard, and Wm. Blundeston. Previous
consultations of the 2nd and 4th April, concerning the
dismissal of Edward Pettus, ratified. Reasons for awaiting the King's
arrival, who is expected within 25 or 30 days, "to solicit him in our
present occasions for the negotiations of our masters' business." A
Pattimar to be sent to Court with letters to the King and to
Lalabegg and Myraballmallye, thanking them for their late received
courtesies in procuring two phirmaunds from the King to the
Khan of Shiraz for release of their persons and goods. Robbins
allowed time to consider whether he would be admitted into the
Company's service on the small allowance of 20l. a year, which the
Lord Ambassador (Roe) has limited him to ; his voluntary offer to
clear himself from the objections to his account. Reasons for opening
letters directed to Connok, deceased, two being from the Governor of
the Company, Sir Thos. Smythe.
May 16.-At Ispahan ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, and Wm. Robbins. Concerning the sale by Robbins of
precious stones to Sir Robt. Sherley, part of which, a pair of earrings
and a table diamond set in a ring, were given by Sir Robert to his
lady ; money given by Robbins to the Mihmandare by the authority
of Rich. Steele's letter from Bagdad of 6 January 1615-6 ; expenses
of Robbins in his journey to Shiraz, whither he conducted
Lady Sherley, Sir Robert having gone before, and on other occasions.
Reasons for admitting Robbins into the Company's service with a
higher salary than that named by the Lord Ambassador. Inventories
of goods taken at Moghistan and Ispahan, which belonged to Adam
Tanner, who died at Moghistan about the end of July 1618 ; and of
all found in the chest of the deceased Francis Tipton, which Edward
Monox claims by will.
June 4.-At Ispahan ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, Wm. Robbins, Robt. Gifford, and Wm. Blundestone. Letter
read from Edw. Pettus, begging money to buy bread with, "never
any of the Company's poor servants were brought to such a straight,
body and mind undone by your unkindness," and adding that the
King had come to town that evening, and that it will too much
dishonor them if Pettus run up and down the streets. His demands
set down in writing, to be allowed to eat in the house and readmitted
into the Company's service ; fears of his "renouncing his
faith in Christ, and so turning Moor, or revolting from the Protestant
profession, and so turning friar, of which we have had too great cause
of suspicion." The resolution to admit him into the Company's
house, allow him diet and lodging, and employ him in some writing
business, contrary to all their expectations, refused, but he desired
to be furnished with means to go home overland through Turkey,
"which we have too much cause to fear would not only be dishonor
to God, but likewise disgraceful to our nation." Resolved to prevent
this, to keep him in safe custody within the Company's house, and to
use all possible means to prevent him from working himself any
violence, which is not the last thing to be feared. The King having
arrived in the city last night, the best method of proceeding for
settling a peaceable and quiet commerce and traffic considered :-First,
to present two copies of his Majesty's letter to the Sophy and
acquaint him that a third copy is coming by way of Muscovy, the
better to express his Majesty's affection to the Sophy and his desire
to continue and increase the same by mutual commerce with both
nations ; to obtain an Act to prevent the like molestations for the
future in case of reprisals of any of the Portugals' goods ; to procure
the Sophy's phirmaund to the Khan, to see if the port of Gombroon
be fitting for English ships to traffic at ; also a phirmaund for
confirmation of their house in Ispahan, and an order for the abatement
of the price of silk given to Connok ; concerning an Act
having reference to the debts of deceased Englishmen ; the exportation
of prohibited commodities, as brimstone, horses, &c, and the
value in Persian currency of a ryal of eight. To procure the King's
phirmaund to Lallabeg to deliver three hundred camel-loads of silk
and licence to ship them at Gombroon. A declaration added that
the price of silk having been agreed on between Lallabeg and Connok,
it would too much dishonour the Company, and the King would take
it ill to fix a new price, so this will be left out of their requests to
the King ; also concerning the exportation of brimstone, against
which they are told there is no prohibition, and of horses that they
are not fitting to be shipped. Concerning the searching of the port of
Gombroon, have already a very ample phirmaund from the Khan of
Shiraz, and therefore do not think it fit to trouble the King about.
June 20.-At Ispahan ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, and Wm. Robbins. Concerning the entertainment of
George Strahan, a Scottish gentleman, lately arrived from Bagdad.
Resolved not only to receive him as a guest, but to entertain him in
the Company's service ; reasons ; great wish of the Spanish Ambassador
to employ him in the service of the King of Spain, being so
ingenious in deciphering ; he is also well practised in physic, has
lived with the King of the Arabs and in Bagdad, and is very perfect
in the Latin, French, Italian, Hebrew, Greek, and Arabic languages ;
his salary. Relief to a poor sick Venetian to take him to his own
country.
July 1.-At Ispahan ; present, Thos. Barker, President, Edward
Monox, Wm. Robbins, and Wm. Bell, merchants. The present for
the King of Persia to be worth 700l. sterling ; the custom of the
country not only for Ambassadors but for every private merchant to
give presents to the King, whereby they enjoy better freedom, better
sale for their commodities, and less molestation from inferior officers.
Reasons for somewhat enlarging their present ; they came last year
empty-handed, which is they suspect the cause of their business taking
no better effect ; the King's favour in suffering them peaceably to
enjoy what they took from the Portugals ; the many things they
have to obtain from the King, and phirmaunds for their better usage.
Resolution to propose to the King the carrying down of a greater
quantity of silk and other Persian commodities to meet next year's
fleet than they have now means to satisfy him for ; lastly, to procure
his phirmaund for keeping their house, which the Spanish Ambassador's
malice would dispossess them of. The present for the King
of Persia to consist of 15 broad cloths of several colours, 100 Muscovy
hides, 300 sword blades, the footman's armour, three of the best swords,
two of the best looking-glasses trimmed with crimson and green
velvet and gold lace, three of the best pictures, viz., the Prince,
Lady Salisbury and Lady Redman's pictures, two embroidered purses
or needlework, one embroidered scarf, waistcoat, and comb case or
needlework. The china ware includes 35 great basins or chargers,
17 great dishes or platters, 33 of a lesser sort, 25 great porringers
or posset bowls, and 1,000 cups of various patterns. A chief
reason for making so great a present to the King that it was his
custom to give presents to others not much inferior in value.
Sept. 24.-At Ispahan ; present, Thos. Barker, Edward Monox,
Wm. Bell, and Thos. Barker, junr. Reasons for not making any
investment this year ; the extraordinary prices demanded by the King,
which, if given, is feared would be increased every year ; the loss of
four months' time by reason of the imprisonment of their persons
and the embargo of their goods at Moghistan ; inability to make sale
of any of their goods to the King, who had left Ispahan on his
hunting progress, their agent's time being spent in following the
Court, to conclude a bargain with him. Understanding that both
Goa and Ormuz have made preparation to intercept this year's
English fleet, besides five galleons expected from Spain, resolution
to purchase stuffs for musters both for India and England, and to
hasten their departure to the port. Money outstanding for goods
sold at Ispahan, Lalabegg's account, Wm. Robbins' death, and the
President's sickness and lameness, the reasons for his remaining at
Ispahan. Monox, Bell, and Barker, junior, to see to the landing and
bringing up of the expected cargo. Pettus to be taken down, but his
escape prevented at all hazards, except putting him in chains, which
would be a public disgrace to the English nation, but to give him
into the custody of the commander of the ship, as the Company's
prisoner, and take him to Surat, there to be disposed of as the factor
thinks fit. The amount of ryals to be taken down, which they have
the King's and Khan's phirmaunds for passing at their full value.
The money extorted from them by the Governor of Moghistan to be
received at Shiraz, besides a debt he oweth. A new agreement to be
made with George Strahan, not only able to do the Company service
as a physician, but especially as a linguist, in which he will be very
necessary since the death of Wm. Robbins. [Thirty-two pages.
O.C., Vol. VI., No. 717.]
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Oct. 18-27.
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754. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Suit of
Mr. Needham, bachelor of divinity, formerly the Queen's chaplain
and a fellow of Christ Church, Oxford, to proceed as preacher to the
Indies. The stones from the Anne to be given to the city for the
use of Moregate if they exceed not 8l. or 10l. in value. Richard
Norgrave to be entertained conditionally. Towerson's information
concerning the unfitness of George Best ; the Company "unwilling
to have him published because of disgracing him, but rather to let
him slide away without any further question." Committee to
confer with Mr. Fitzherbert, as to his appointment of chief commander
at Bantam. Demeistres, who brewed the beer, so much of
which was cast overboard, to be prosecuted, on the return of the
Dragon. Capt. Burrowes, commended by Lord Southampton, to be
further considered of for commander of the next fleet. Motion of
Sir Thos. Roe "to have an end of matters by degrees betwixt the
Company and him, desiring to have it first seen and known what
service he hath performed in settling some trades and factories at
Mocha, the Red Sea, and in the Mogul's dominions at Surat, Ahmedabad,
and other parts. Committee appointed to confer with him
thereon. Several of Sir Thos. Roe's consultations read ; his care to
prevent unnecessary expenses ; also how the Persian trade was to be
supplied, with other matters of great consequence. Reforms introduced
by him in keeping the accounts. Steele's account referred to
the auditor. Limited number of horses and servants allowed by
Roe to each factor.
Oct. 20.-The stones from the Anne not exceeding the value of 8l.
or 9l. bestowed freely on the city for the use of Moorgate. Some
of Roe's consultations in the Indies read ; the business of Mocha ;
instructions to the master of the Lion to make further search into
Prester John's country, and to W. Biddulph how to carry himself at
the Court and other passages of great consequence, seriously considered ;
resolved to have them confirmed to their factors, which will
add reputation to Sir Thos. Roe as he hath deserved ; his gratuity
left wholly to this Court. Invention of an old Frenchman to
cut asunder the cordage of shipping with cannon shot, who requires
for his pains and discovery 1,000l. in hand and 100l. a year during
life ; the committee holding it to be but a trick, resolved to have his
project underwritten that they do not believe any such instrument
can be made, and are therefore unwilling to trouble themselves any
further about it. Shepheard, recommended by Sir Thos. Roe, to be
a steward's mate. Wages of Nathaniel Harvell claimed by Ant.
Carre and one Lock. Richard Chamberlain to be a steward.
Oct. 22.-Capt. Shilling to have 20 marks per month wages for
his good service abroad, to be remembered for the taking of the
prize with Capt. Pring, and conferred with as to his future employment.
Petition of Richard Swaine concerning his goods ; he is
referred as very sufficient for a master and commander. John
Browne, much commended in his last employment, to go master at
6l. a month, with a promise of 7l. on his return. Swanley, commended
for his skill and government, though having so grossly
offended by his great private trade, to be thought upon for a fit master
for Bantam. Blieth to be conferred with for employment. Offer of
100l. a year to John Blount for the first two years, 150l. for the
next two years, and 200l. for the fifth year, who may be very
necessary for the Moluccas and those parts, and do good service about
the spices, but he requiring 200l. and 300l. per annum for the last
two years, is referred for consideration. The freight of the goods of
Tirrye, the preacher, remitted, being so much commended by Sir
Thos. Roe for his sober, honest, and civil life there. Gratuity of
100l. for the relief of poor ministers. Concerning Mrs. Hudson's
goods.
Minutes of a general Court. Sale of commodities with names of
purchasers and the prices.
Oct. 25.-Capt. Shilling being willing to accept the Company's
offer of 20l. a month, the Governor is requested to conclude with him
absolutely. Agreement with Edward Withers to go to the East
Indies ; his salary. Committee appointed to carry some small
remembrance to and give the Lord Chief Baron thanks about Mr.
Palmer. Sir Thos. Roe's accounts to be audited. Mr. Blieth to be
entertained. Concerning the trade of Surat ; to persuade the
Hollanders to send two ships that way for security of the trade,
"who are able to set forth shipping at all times, as is said (especially
from Flushing)." A court to be summoned purposely to take these
points into consideration. The Governor entreated to use his best
means with his Majesty and the Lord Admiral to prevent one come
over from the Hollanders from getting licence to transport some
ordnance, "which hath been a great mischief to this land and to the
welfare of this Company." Petition from Thos. Lawes, complaining
that by the Commissioners for the Levels in Essex and Middlesex
three several assessments have been awarded upon Blackwall.
Oct. 27.-Final agreement with Capt. Shilling ; 20l. a month
salary and 100 marks to set him forth to sea. No means of employment
for Sir John Holmden. A bell to be hung at Blackwall for
the watch to toll. Agreement with John Holland to have 50l. the
first year, increasing 10l. for seven years. Jo. Woodhouse, having
preached before the committees, entertained at 50l. per annum
and 20l. to set him forth. Petition of the wife of Richard Steele
concerning her goods, and complaining that she was forced to go
abroad with her infant only 18 days old. Justinian Osley to be
employed as an under-factor. Wm. Fortescue, commended for a
commander, to be conferred with ; as also Mr. Fitzherbert. Explanations
of the Governor in consequence of the auditors finding fault
that he has 10,000l. with the Company at ten per cent., whereas it
can at present be had at 8 per cent. [Twelve pages and a half.
Court Bk. IV., 428-440.]
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Oct. 28.
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755. Consultation on board the Palsgrave in Tecoe Road, signed
by Thos. Brockedon, Thos. Mills, Thos. Barwick, John Rowe, Chas.
Clevenger, Edmunde Dennys, and John Bardon. Capt. Jourdain,
President of the Council of India, having appointed Priaman the
rendezvous for the English forces, and sent letters express to the
Cape to the English fleet, there to meet the end of September last
at farthest, but failing to come, and the Hollanders having intelligence
that the Dragon, Bear, Expedition, and Rose lay at Tecoe, came
suddenly upon them 1st Oct., being taken at first for the English
fleet, and in less than one hour and a half's fight, the Dragon was
taken with the loss of 30 men ; Capt. Bonner "wounded to death ;"
the three other English ships yielded without fight. The Star
formerly taken in the straits of Sunda. Report of the surprise of
the Sampson and Hound, bound with Capt. Jourdain for Patani,
Siam, &c. The Hollanders have thirty sail at Bantam and Jacatra,
and daily expect more. Hopes of the English, altogether frustrate,
to right themselves. Resolved to send the Rose to England, with
Thos. Barwick master, and Wm. Hoare factor, to relate all occurrences.
Intention of the Hollanders to return to Tecoe, being
informed of the arrival of the English fleet of only three ships, the
Palsgrave, Elizabeth, and Hope. Intended movements of the
English fleet. Reports of the preparations of the Portugals and
Hollanders against them at Surat. Wm. Nicolls, "a man well
experienced in the language and conditions both of prince and people,
and in good grace and esteem with the King of Acheen," to be sent
thither to excite that King against the Hollanders for the intolerable
wrongs proffered within his ports and deprive them of further
trade there ; Henry Bates, factor, and Richard Blewin, sailor, to
accompany him, leaving Peter Waddon and Thos. Gaskin with
letters at Tecoe for the fleet, if by chance it arrives after their
departure. [Two pages. O.C., Vol. VII., No. 816.]
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Oct. 29.
Surat.
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756. Kerridge, Rastell, and James to Thos. Barker and the
factors in Persia. In answer to their letter from Jask of 10 Dec.
1618, directed to Sir Thos. Roe, who left for England 17 Feb. last
in the Royal Anne. Particulars of the account of Fras. Tipton,
deceased. To observe Sir Thos. Roe's order in re-shipping Wm.
Blundstone home. The silk was approved of and sent home on the
Royal Anne ; not to send any more without their masters' orders.
Hear not of any glazier come in the fleet. Concerning Wm. Robbins'
demands ; if Edw. Connok repaid the money lent by Wm. Tracy
the more hath been his wrong. As to the fowling pieces, sword
blades, and elephants' teeth sent to Persia ; it was hoped the passengers
on the Expedition last year would have produced profit, but
seeing they also are troubled with them, will forbear henceforth
except on better grounds. Sale of commodities out of the two
prizes. The Lion, of Capt. Bonner's fleet, went last year for Mocha.
Send abstract of commodities in the fleet just arrived. Account of
those now sent to Persia. Can give them no encouragement at
present to send any from thence. They will do well to solicit the
Sophy to fortify the fort of Jask, that English ships may ride there
singly, free from danger of the Portugals ; recommend some more
secure and convenient port further up within the gulf. Three
factors sent by the Company to be resident in Persia ; Robt.
Jefferies to be third factor, Barker and Monox (if living) being first
and second factors ; John Purifie and John Bentall to succeed in
order ; if they have settled two factories Monox to be chief of the
second. Send copy of the clause for prevention of private trade.
Caution them of a design of the Portugals to surprise the English
ship expected ; "the import of your present supply hath caused us
to send the whole fleet unto you ;" the Commander limited to a stay
of fifteen or twenty days at the utmost. Request to be despatched
in ten days if possible. The letters for their masters to be sent
overland. [In a postscript dated from aboard the Charles, 6 Nov.
1619, the detention of this letter is stated to have been caused
through clearing the goods from the custom-house.] A minister goes
by this fleet who is entertained, as himself affirmeth, purposely for
Persia ; they may detain or send him back "as you shall find
occasion." [Nine pages. Endorsed, "Received by the Charles
the 3rd of Dec, unto ye factors of Persia. Received in London
ye 25th Sept. 1620, overland." O.C., Vol. VII., No. 817.]
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Oct. 30.
London.
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757. Chamberlain to Carleton. Pre Coton, a French Jesuit,
gives out that all the Jesuits in China and Japan have been
publicly whipped and condemned to perpetual imprisonment upon
suggestion of the English and Hollanders that they serve only for
spies. [Extract from Domestic Jac. I., Vol. CX., No. 149, Cal.,
p. 88.]
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