|
July 1.
St. Martin's Lane. |
298. Sec. Calvert to [Sec. Conway]. Has intimated to the
merchants of the East India Company the King's commands touching
Ormuz, but will send to morrow for the Governor himself and let him
know the King's pleasure. [Extract from Domestic Corresp., Jac. I.,
Vol. CXLVIII., No. 5, Cal., p. 2.] |
July 1.
London. |
299. Capt. Thos. Conway to his father, Sec. Conway. Prays his
most assisting hand for a lady, not named, in obtaining the King's
especial commission to his Commissioners of the Navy for her better
procurement of her seized on estate out of the hands of the East
India Company. [Extract from Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol.
CXLVIII., No. 6, Cal., p. 2.] |
| July 2. |
300. Minutes of a General Court of the East India Company.
Those absent to be fined 12d. a piece, according to former order.
Arrival of the Lesser James; a portion of the pepper to be sold in
town to keep the Dutch out of the market. Price of maces set at
8s. 6d. and 5s. 6d. per lb., and of nuts (nutmegs) 3s. per lb. The
first half capital of those who have not taken it out in goods to be
paid in money at Michaelmas. Alderman Hallidaie, though he
earnestly excuses himself on the ground of weak health, re-elected
Governor, and consents to act for another year, the Court undertaking to spare him as much as possible. Morris Abbott, now that
the business of the treaty is over, desired the Court to consider that
he hath served eight years and grows old, and hath need of rest and
to enjoy himself; but he is re-elected Deputy. William Stone and
Robert Bateman elected Treasurers, after a discussion about the
auditing of the accounts. Six of the 24 committees being changed
every year, Joab Harby, Simon Lawrence, Robert Parkhurst, Giles
Martin, George Strowd, and William Cokayne are elected in place
of Sir Edwin Sandys, Nicholas Crispe, Mr. Keightly, Henry Robinson,
Henry Powlstead, and Thomas Millward. Robert Bacon, the Secretary, Andrew Ellam, and Christopher Lanman, book-keepers, and
Richard Mountney, husband of the Company, are re-elected. A
letter is delivered to Mr. Governor in open court, directed to the
Generalty and subscribed George Ball, by John Gloster, a goldsmith
of Southwark, who affirms that it is a copy and not the original.
Unanimously resolved not to read it, but to complain of the matter
to the Lords of the Privy Council. [Five pages. Court Bk. VI.,
1–5.] |
| July 4–23. |
301. Court Minutes of the East India Company. In reference to
Mr. Smitheck's petition to the King, to which Mr. Comptroller and Sir
Edward Sackville were appointed referees, they entreat the Company
to bestow something upon petitioner for his four months' attendance
at the Court, but the Court taking it he was the only cause of his
own discharge for the unreasonable terms he stood upon, saw no
cause to give him anything. Letters brought from the Earl of
Holderness, in behalf of Lewis Smith, who claims wages at 30l. per
annum, but the Court Book shows that his wages are 20l. per
annum, therefore Smith, who is sent over to answer his misdemeanours,
has received all he could have demanded if he had faithfully served,
but as he deserved ill, he could with no reason expect so much. The
Earl prayed to be satisfied with this answer. The Company to
stand out about the payment of the Lizard light, the Trinity House
holding it altogether unnecessary and fruitless, but have compounded
for their part, though they could wish the business brought to a new
dispute. The Court is informed by Mr. Deputy [Morris Abbott] that
Sec. Calvert having sent for some of the Company, himself, Mr.
[Robt.] Bell, and the Company's secretary [Robt. Bacon] attended at the
Star Chamber and spoke with Sec. Calvert, who said he had received
two or three letters from Sec. Conway, signifying that the Spanish
Ambassador had pressed the King touching the business of Ormuz,
and that his Majesty's pleasure was he should speak with the Company concerning the same, and now he wished them to send to Sec.
Conway in writing such satisfaction as they can at present give,
taking knowledge of what he had said unto them. The Court took
consideration of this business, which being weighty (all circumstances
considered), they conceived there could not be too much caution
used in the very entrance, and therefore thought fit to forbear writing,
but entreated Mr. Deputy and Mr. Bell to repair to Mr. Sec. (Conway)
at Windsor, and the Company's secretary to attend them. The
Charles to victual at Erith, for the better keeping of the men aboard.
Some of the men of the Lesser James examined as to whether they
had been the cause, "through their unfortunately not differing far
from a mutiny," of carrying the ship into Ireland. The men to be
paid, but the officers respited for the present. Mr. Stone, "one of
the city's council," to be appointed arbitrator with Mr. Jeffreys,
between the Company and Mr. Pattison, in place of Mr. Coxe, of the
Temple, who has "to ride a circuit." Demands of Mary, widow of
[? Mary Jackson, sister of, see ante, No. 30] George Cokayne (slain in
the Company's service), about a house in Succadana: she produced one
Hayward as a witness, "a man that for an offence not to be named
was sent home and had deserved to be hanged in the Indies;"
resolved, that she must rest contented with what she hath had. Consideration of a master for the Charles: Swann's demand of 200l. per
annum, and 50l. gratuity to set him out; the Court not doubting
they should find choice of able men for the command of that ship,
"would follow no man in his unreasonable demands." |
|
July 9.—An order in Chancery read that Ball should have his
wearing apparel, linen, &c., his goods, because they are perishing, to
be sold and sequestered into some indifferent hand, and his books
and papers deposited at Guildhall, where he may have access to
them. The Court propounded whether they might not attach his
goods, but Sir John Walter advised that the Company in no sort
proceed at common law and in the Star Chamber both at once. Ball
to come in the afternoon for his wearing apparel, &c. In reference
to the business of Mrs. Wickham, it was determined to consider the
Lord Keeper's offer to give the case "a short and summary hearing,
or to refer it to arbitrament." Mr. Bell and Mr. Stile to advise with
the Attorney General thereon. William Cokayne, elected at the last
General Court one of the committee, requests leave to resign, on
account of his having in hand a very great business; to be referred
to a General Court. The Great James, because the heat of the season
would do much hurt to her sheathing, to be launched, and the Lesser
James to take her place. The fitting of the Eagle and Star for sea
at a charge of 300l. and 250l. deferred until the Court hears again
from the Indies. Master named for the Charles, but because she is
a ship of great charge and is to go alone, the Court are extraordinary
careful to fit her with a good master, but took distaste to Mr. Swann's
peremptory demands, yet because they had experience of his honesty
and sufficiency he is to be once more spoken with, and if he shall
continue in his resolution the Company will never treat with him
again. The Court informed that 150 barrels of powder are to be
had, but it must not be known; ordered that they be bought and laid
up at Deptford, and a man appointed to watch them. Petition of
Woodall, the Company's surgeon, against any other being allowed to
provide the surgeon's chest for the Charles; debate thereon, and
resolution that a trial medicine chest for 100 men, with the prices,
be provided by those that will undertake it. Mr. Deputy [Abbott]
reported that he and Mr. Bell attended Sec. Conway concerning the
business of Ormuz, and delivered what Sec. Calvert had said: he
found that complaint had been made to his Majesty, but did not
perceive that it is much pressed at the instant, that the King would
be in London on Wednesday, when, if there were cause, Sec. Conway
would send for them. Offers for mace, nutmegs, and indigo at certain
prices. Petition of David Bourne, who was arrested for a debt due
to the Company for goods, and sold his adventure in the first joint
stock to pay it, that the remainder be paid to him; some present
relief to be granted to the petitioner. The Court hold the light on
the Lizard to be very unnecessary and unuseful to this Company,
and are therefore determined not to contribute to the payment of it.
The charges of the Company's proctor to be audited. |
|
July 11.—Woodall presents one John Hedlow (Headly) as master
surgeon to the Charles. Doctors Atkins and Winston to make proof
of and report on his proficiency. Richard Swan entertained master
of the Charles at 15l. per month; if he brings his ship laden, and
touches at no port until he come to the Downs he shall have 100l.:
for these favours he promises to use no private trade, and to
hinder it in others. Report made that Sir John Walter continues
still of the mind that the Company shall do best not to proceed
against Ball at common law, so long as the suit in the Star Chamber
is depending. Mrs. Wickham's case. Mr. Attorney to "move at the
next seal" that Ball's books and papers may "stay here," and that
the proceeds of his goods and a competent proportion of his linen be
delivered to him, and no more. Resolution to vent their maces
themselves at 8s. 6d. and 5s. 6d. per lb., for the Dutch have but a
small quantity in Europe, though cloves in abundance, for though
they have two parts and the English but one, they trade with them
to the Coromandel coast. The indigo not to be sold under price, as
this is the season for the dyeing of all the wools. Bond sealed to
abide the decision of the arbitrators concerning all questions between
the Company and Benjamin Pattison. Submission of Roe, late
master of the Star, to the charges of going to Ireland, wasting
powder and provisions in entertaining the Dutch, and appropriating
goods from a prize; he alleges the disobedience of his men, who
altered the ship's course whilst he slept; that his entertainment of
the Dutch was in courtesy, but extended not to riot, and his expense
in powder was nothing near to that of the Dutch; that he had from
the prize but 100 lbs. of cloves and a few trifles, as the captain's
girdle and hangers with buckles of silver, a taffeta quilt, but nothing
of value. Committee appointed to end the business. |
|
July 16.—Commissioners named for examining witnesses at Plymouth in Mrs. Wickham's case, Alderman Allen to nominate those
for Bristol. Payment on account of wages to the wife of Capt.
Fitzherbert. To speak with Sir Henry Marten and Dr. Zouch concerning the proceedings with Capt. Hawkeridge in the Admiralty
Court. A Court of Sales to be held on Wednesday afternoon next,
and bills of sales to be set up at the Exchange and other usual places.
Certificate of Doctors Atkins and Winston that of three surgeons
examined by them, John Headly is the most sufficient. Harrison's
accounts. Petition of William Bennet, sent home prisoner in the Lesser
James, for a copy of the true charge against him. The Court conceived this to be a demand infused into him by some crafty counsel,
and therefore wished him rather to confess his offence and show
how he is able to give satisfaction. 5l. to be given to the King's
waiters for the ship James, and 40s. to the Farmer's waiters, as
hath been usual in like cases. |
|
July 18.—Arrival of the London, Jonas, and Lion in the Downs.
Committees appointed to go aboard and keep all the goods aboard,
as well those of the mariners as of the Company. Letters brought
by the purser of the London read. |
|
July 23.—Consideration of Pattison's business; agreed to pay
110l. in full of all pretences on account of the estate of Henry
Pattison deceased, as well from William Pattison, the father, as from
Benjamin and Ralph Pattison and Ann King, brothers and sister
to the testator. John Conyers appointed tailor on board the Charles,
but to learn to do the work of a mariner also. Information that
Capt. Hawkeridge had arrested George Pettus on an action of
1,000l., which being only for vexation and in revenge of some
report to the Company concerning Capt. Hawkeridge, resolved that
Mr. Mountney, their husband, and Mr. Cappur, their remembrancer,
be bail for said Pettus. Report of Walter Mountford that a great
quantity of pepper was sold out of the [Lesser] James in Ireland, and
that Roberts, the master, contracted himself there to a girl of 13 years;
he is to appear before the Court on Friday. Report of Mr. Deputy
that the Commissioners of the Navy require some help of victuals
from the Company for setting forth his Majesty's ships; he had
offered to lend 15,000 of bread, but they required 20 hogsheads of
beef, and he demanded whether that quantity may be spared; the
Court made answer that where there is a necessity for the King's
service they will not suffer themselves to be compelled, but readily
yield to what they can do, though with much inconvenience, as the
beef provided is to supply their people in the Indies. Mr. Garroway to attend the Commissioners and satisfy them with a less
quantity, if not, the Company would not be wanting to his Majesty's
service. Report of Mr. Deputy that the Governor, himself, and some
others of the Company being summoned by the King to attend his
Majesty at Whitehall on Sunday last [20th], they went, except the
Governor, whose health did not permit, and his Majesty commanding
the chamber to be voided of all other company, told them he had
understood from the Duke of Buckingham that the Company had
before his going promised to gratify the Duke, which promise had
been confirmed since at a court; the King therefore advised them to
do it now in his absence, when the gift will come the more acceptably, because thereby it would appear they had been mindfull of
him. His Majesty said further (and spake it cheerfully) that the
gratification to the Duke had been stayed until the business of
Ormuz were cleared, and that their ships being now arrived, his
Majesty doubted not they would perform what they intended and
willed, Mr. Deputy to send their answer wherever his Majesty
should be in progress. The Court considered the Lord Admiral's
favours to the Company, and the continual use they have of his
favour, and that this business of Ormuz may form a strong opposition, also that howsoever the King had formerly said the Duke
should have nothing from the Company for the business of the
Dutch, yet it is both fit to gratify him and is expected at their
hands, the rest of the lords having been gratified. Resolved, with
one consent, that for his favours in the last treaty with the Dutch
and to sweeten him for their future occasions, and particularly for that
of Ormuz, he shall have 2,000l., and that the King be acquainted
with this resolution. Offer of Nathaniel Cobb to serve the Company.
[Twenty-one pages. Court Bk. VI., 6–25.] |
| July 23. |
302. Minutes of a General Court of Sales. List of goods sold,
consisting of Bezoar stones, diamonds, and pepper, with the names
of purchasers and the prices. [Two pages and a half. Court Bk.,
VI., 26–28.] |
| July 23 to June 23, 1624. |
303. Minutes, in the handwriting of Edward Nicholas, "touching
the business of Ormuz, and more especially the prizes taken in the
Indies by the East India Company." The King sends for the
Governor to gratify the Lord Admiral in his absence; resolved with
one consent by the Court that he should have 2,000l., "as well for
favor shown in the business of the Dutch as to sweeten him for their
future occasions, aud particularly for that of Ormuz." First overture of a demand for the business of Ormuz and other reprizals
taken by the East India Company; a committee appointed, but the
Company resolved to stand on their innocency. Dr. Steward's
opinion that the 10th part belongs by custom to the Lord Admiral,
but there is no law for it. Dr. Zouch's opinion. The Company
unwilling to contend with the Lord Admiral, and hope to satisfy
him that he has no right to tenths in their case. The Company's
ships stayed, upon a motion in Parliament, The Company hath
taken in value 100,000l. in several parts of the Indies. The Dutch
in such cases give five per cent. to the States and as much to the
Prince of Orange. Demands of the King and the Lord Admiral;
the latter protests the ships shall not go till the Company have
compounded with him. The King calls the Company pirates, arrests
the Company in an action for 15,000l., and will not compound for
less than 10,000l. The Company unwilling to go to law with the
King; he tells the committee he was promised 1,000l. for the business of Ormuz. He says he is no tyrant; he allows his subjects
the benefit of law, and would have it so tried. The Lord Admiral
refuses to release the ships till Parliament is moved. The King
says to the committee, "Did I deliver you from the complaint of
the Spaniard, and do you return me nothing ?" Resolved that
5,000l. be offered. The King demands 10,000l. for himself and as
much for the Lord Admiral; he says that 100,000l. is taken justly
or unjustly, if unjustly all is lost, if justly yet they must pay a rt
[right of tenths], and he will not suffer the Lord Admiral to compound.
Resolved that 10,000l. be offered for the King to shut up all businesses. The King insists on his former demands. An end must be
made before the ships will be released. Resolved to petition the
King that 10,000l. might be accepted. The Company's ships have
leave to depart 23 March 1624. The King takes the petition ill,
and demands 15,000l. now and 5,000l. on the return of the ships
from Surat. 1,000l. paid to Sir Allan Apsley. Correspondence with
Lord Conway as to the payment of the 20,000l. At the King's
express pleasure the money is paid. How the Company thinks fit
that the acquittances should be worded. [Six pages. Endorsed as
above. East Indies, Vol. II., No. 83.] |
| 1623. July 25. |
304. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Petition of
Richard Bishopp, prisoner in Saint Katherines, for 25l. detained
from his wages on a charge of taking a woman from Macassar,
which woman was delivered to the King's factor at Japara, by
order of Bennett, the Company's principal factor there; the matter
cannot be settled until the accounts come from Macassar. Anthony
Wallis, also a prisoner, petitions to pay his debt of 800 ryals at 5s.
per ryal, and prays for his liberty. The Court replied that to a bad
servant, as he was both at Surat and to the southward, whence he
was shipped home as a delinquent, there is nothing due; the matter
deferred. Report of a committee that they found the London in
better case than ever they saw any ship return out of the Indies,
"her men all and lusty, commending their captain for a loving and
kind man, and he them for honest and serviceable men." Morris
Jones appointed surgeon's mate to the Charles. A letter from
Spalding shown by Mr. Jackson to the Company, concerning 400l.
given to mariners and certain pieces of damask sent in the Lesser
James; a great probability of alteration observed in the figures,
which are blotted. Walter Mountford's account of his inquiries in
Bristol and Ireland; that 1,000l. worth of pepper and cloves had
been sold from the Lesser James in Ireland, but he could not learn out
either buyer or seller; Roberts, the master, had contracted himself
to a wench of 13 or 14 years, and Capt. Hawkeridge to a daughter
or near kinswoman of the Lady Southwell. Mountford offers to
account for all sums received by him and not accounted for (which
he guessed to be about 700l.) in a fortnight; is much blamed for
his slackness, and ordered that he be no more employed until he has
accounted. In future all their servants so employed to account for
their disbursements within three or four days, while things are fresh
in memory. Committees to unlade the Lion, Jonas, and London.
Debts of Lawrence Greene and Mr. Jeames. Beversham, master of
the Lion, lately returned from Surat, "gently blamed" for leaving
his ship before she was unladen; explains by what means Ruy Frere,
the Portugal commander, escaped through the negligence of the
watch, though he had set a guard of six men with rapiers and
pistols. Robert Hayes, late the Company's factor in the Indies,
who had been discharged for a gross error, acknowledges his fault
and begs for employment; after discussion, he is appointed to go in
the Charles, upon rebate somewhat of his wages. Expences of
Richard Betton, hurt aboard one of the ships, to be paid by Mountney.
The London and Jonas will cost 600l. per annum to keep them afloat;
opinion thereon deferred.
An afternoon meeting, appointed principally for conference with
Mr. Monox, lately returned out of Persia in the Lion. An abstract
of his journal read. Being demanded upon what warrant the action
of Ormuz was grounded for so much as concerned the English, he
answered that, first, his Majesty's commission to defend and offend;
secondly, a consultation at Surat; and lastly, the instructions received
by the commanders of the ships for the weakening and ruining of
the Portugals that had fought with our ships, slain our men, and
impeached the freedom of our trade, were in their judgments inducement and warrant enough to do what they did; but there was
another reason above all these, which was that the Company having
goods ashore to a very great value, and their factors there with
them, the Persians did deny to give way to put the goods aboard,
refusing leave for their camels to carry them to the shore, except
the English would aid him for the gaining of Ormuz; also when
the Persian commanders came aboard the English ships and propounded the service there appeared no possibility to get the Company's goods aboard without it, and they thought they might take
that opportunity to disable their enemies and repair their former
wrongs, and that they were warranted thereunto by his Majesty's
commission and those other directions they had. Discussion in
reference to how it appeared the Company's goods were in danger if
the English assisted not the Persian. Monox affirmed it to be a
happy turn for the Portugals that the English were there, for at
their earnest request the English received them into their ships and
saved them all, which afterward they ill requited, for they plotted a
treachery upon a frigate of the English, which was discovered.
Being demanded of the richness of the spoil, Monox made answer
that the Portugals expected a siege and had sent away their wives
and children, and therefore it was not likely they would leave any
treasure there, and as for goods they had none; and that they
expected a siege appears by a letter directed to the King of Spain,
which Monox said he saw in the hands of the King of Ormuz, and
hath a copy of it. Also he is of opinion that the Portugals did in a
sort sell themselves, for Ormuz, with two months' siege, was in that
want of victuals that it could not have held out, which had it been
victualled had been easy enough to be kept both against the English
and Persian. Monox said the sea commanders and pursers sold the
goods the English took there much underfoot, for there were none
suffered to buy but Persians; the Armenians who came down from
Gombroon to buy were not suffered to do so. The factors at Surat
had accounts of the sale. For other circumstances concerning Ormuz,
Monox referred the Company to his journal [see below], which he
begged might be safely restored to him. Notice from the bailiff and
justices of Ipswich, that indigo, pepper, and calicoes have come to that
port from the Lion, on behalf of the master and others; the goods to
be stayed until further orders, and the messenger paid 20s. Ordered
that a dividend of half a capital in pepper from the Lesser James,
the London, Jonas, and Lyon be declared, and that a General Court
be held on Wednesday next for that and for settling the price, as
also to make known God's goodness to the Company in the safe
return of the ships. [Seven pages. Court Bk. VI., 28–35.] |
| [1621–2.] |
305. Journal of Edward Monnox, agent in Persia, being a narrative
of transactions with the Persians and Portuguese previous, during,
and subsequent to the expulsion of the Portuguese from Ormuz; also
a "History at large of the taking of Ormuz Castle, being delivered up
to the English." [The first leaf is missing and several leaves are
mutilated, but the whole of this paper is printed in Purchas, II.,
pp. 1793 et seq. Fifty-four pages. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1032.] |
July 25 to Dec. 22.
Firando. |
306. Consultations and other writings upon dissolving the English
factory at Firando, in Japan, in 1623, and account of the presents
given to the King and great men at our coming away from thence.
Consultation upon giving advice to the Emperor of Japan
and the King of this place, of our dissolving the factory.
Whereas they have received a letter from President Fursland
and Council, confirmed by a commission to Joseph Cockram,
merchant, in the ship Bull, for dissolving this factory, and
coming all way for Batavia upon said ship, in respect of the
small benefit, or rather loss in keeping the factory so long, they
with all willingness obey. Have resolved to give advice hereof
to the Governor or King of this place, Fegeno Camme, at present at Miako, and the Lords of his Majesty's Council of Japan,
being thereunto counselled by the principal men of this place,
who affirm that, without leave of the Emperor, they cannot
depart all out of this country. They stand in doubt that certain
presents, as at former times, are expected, which at present
they hold not convenient; for if the Emperor should be at his
Court at Eado (Yedo), it would be doubtful their return in
time to depart with the ship, besides they are not provided of
fitting presents. Have resolved, therefore, to send their jurobasso, Coe Juan, to-morrow on this journey, with letters to his
Majesty's Council and the King of this place, desiring their friendly
departure, and excusing the not coming themselves. Signed by
Joseph Cockram, Richard Cocks, Jno. Osterwick, William Eaton,
and Edmond Sayer, Firando. 25th July 1623.
Letter to Fegeno Camme, King or Governor of Firando, sent
by our jurobasso, Coe Juan, to the Emperor's Court now at
Miako. Are strictly charged by their General and Council of
India to recover in all debts abroad, and for a time to dissolve
the factory, and come away every one of them; which command they may not infringe, but do resolve by the prime of
November next to depart. The reasons are not proceeding out
of any unkind usage here, but rather the danger of the seas
between this and Batavia, having lost within three years two
great ships bound for this place; the small hopes they have of
procuring trade with China, partly upon which hopes they
have continued the factory here thus long, at no small expense;
and now lastly, the loss of one of the Company's ships in her
voyage from England, richly laden with commodities vendible
in Japan, by which they are altogether unprovided of goods to
supply this factory. Notwithstanding, if next year produce any
better encouragement, they may return again; upon which
hope they intend not to sell their houses and godown, but
according to their General's order to leave them to his Highness,
entreating they may be kept for them and repossessed by them
if they return again, of which his Highness shall have advice
every year. Have written and enclosed letter to the Lords of
his Majesty's Council, which, if his Highness find requisite, he
may cause to be delivered. Entreat him to excuse their not
coming themselves, in respect of their short time of stay, and
not being furnished with materials needful to present his
Majesty's Council of Japan. Signed by Joseph Cockram,
and Richard Cocks. English Factory, Firando, 26th July 1623.
Letter to the Lords of his Majesty's Council of Japan, sent
by our jurobasso, Coe Juan, to the Emperor's Court at Miako
for the time being. With the free consent and license of his
Majesty the Emperor, they have thus long continued their
factory at Firando, without any molestation or injury; and
being now by their general and Council of India called from
hence, with order for a time to dissolve this factory and come
all away for Batavia, upon the ship expressly sent for that purpose, they have thought fitting hereof to acquaint them, that as
they had first admittance to settle a factory here, and to remain
in his Majesty's country, so likewise that they may have the like
favor now for their departure. The reasons moving hereunto are
largely expressed in their letter to the Governor of this place,
Fegeno Camme, from whom they acknowledge to have received
many courtesies. They would themselves have been the
messengers hereof, but that their occasions are more urgent
here, the time of their stay being short. Signed by Richard
Cocks, and Joseph Cockram. English Factory, Firando, 26th
July 1623.
Consultation conferred upon sending an Englishman to the
Emperor's Court at Miako with presents to his Majesty and
others his nobility. Whereas on the 26th of July last they
sent their jurobasso to the Emperor's Court at Miako, with
letters of advice to his Majesty's Council and the King or
Governor dissolving this factory, they are now given to understand, by the King's brother and other gentlemen, that it is
expressly required that one or two Englishmen be sent about
this business, otherwise they shall not have leave to depart.
Also that they must send presents to his Majesty, and others
his nobility, according to former custom, which this year they
have endeavoured to excuse by all means possible. Wherefore
they are forced to yield, and therefore by Richard Hudson, an
assistant in the factory, send presents to his Majesty of Japan
and the Lords of his Council, directed by letter to the King of
this place, intreating his favourable excuse that they are no
better, they being indeed of small value to what formerly hath
yearly been given. Signed by Richard Cocks, Joseph Cockram,
Jno. Osterwick, Wm. Eaton, and Edmond Sayer. English
Factory, Firando, 2nd August 1623.
The account of presents given to the Emperor of Japan,
Owendono, his secretary, Shemada Jeboydono, Owtadono, of
the Council, and his secretary, Itamie Quenosquedono, Caqusamondono, and the hosts at Miako and Osaka, consisting of
embroidered quilts, velvets, satins, silks, damasks, and taffetas,
to the value of 268 taies in all.
Letter to Fegeno Camme, King or Governor of Firando, sent by
Richard Hudson to the Emperor's Court at Miako. Their last of
26th July, by their jurobasso, craving their friendly departure and
excusing the not coming themselves, they well hoped would have
prevailed; but, contrary to expectation, they understand by
Tonomonsama, his Highness's brother, and others his nobility
here, that it is required that they send an Englishman in performance of this business, which they well hoped their jurobasso
might have effected. And now seeing it cannot be otherwise, they
send the bearer, Richard Hudson, with certain small presents for
his Majesty's Council, such as the time will afford and their
ability of means stretch unto, intreating him to further the
dispatch of this messenger. They have also delivered to this
bearer his Majesty's goshem which was granted for their free
traffic in Japan, being thereunto required by Tonomonsama
and Naygensama, as doubting by them it would be demanded
to be delivered up to his Majesty's Council. But they would
intreat the continuance of it in their hands, or in his Highness'
custody, that returning again they may have the freer entrance.
Entreat his favourable assistance, and hope to see him at
Firando and take a friendly farewell. Signed by Richard
Cocks, and Joseph Cockram. English Factory at Firando, 2nd
August 1623.
Consultation upon giving presents to the King of this place,
Fegeno Camme, and others his nobility and gentlemen, according to former custom. Whereas yearly it hath been accustomed
to give presents to the King, his brother, and other his gentlemen, and it is daily expected of them as a due debt, in respect
they pay no customs; they have resolved to ordain their
presents at as small a charge as they may. Had intended to
have forborne their delivery until "a day two or three" before
their departure, but in respect of monies owing by the King's
brother and other gentlemen, together with the merchants of
the street, they have thought more convenient to deliver them
at present, hoping thereby they will be mindful to give satisfaction for what they are owing, and cause the merchants of
the street to do the like, of which they have the better confidence in respect the King himself is now here in person.
Signed by Richard Cocks, Joseph Cockram, Jno. Osterwick,
Wm. Eaton, and Edmond Sayer. English Factory, Firando,
21st November 1623.
Account of presents given to Fegeno Camme, the King of
Firando, Tonomonsama, the King's brother, Naygonsama, chief
justice, Tarosaymondono, Tackamondono, Semidono, Dashendono, Caquemondono, Coffeodono, and "the sea bungowe,"
consisting of satins, embroidered velvets, lead, Russia hides,
damasks, silks, and taffetas, amounting in value to 774 taies.
Consultation upon the factors all coming away from Japan
and dissolving the Company's factory at Firando. Have used
their best endeavours, both by courteous means and by complaining to the justices, yet many debts are standing forth still,
amounting to 12,821 taies, and no certain hope of recovering any
of them; for where they should find most right they are most
abused, which is by the justices, who being indebted themselves,
will neither make payment nor force others thereto, and have
no longer hopes of recovering more, they being for the most
part poor and not worth the money they owe. A longer stay
of the ship upon uncertainties would but breed a further charge,
and they find the debts altogether so desperate that they rather
conclude to come all away than to leave any behind upon no
hope of benefit. Have resolved to leave a power with Capt.
Cornelius Newrode, principal of the Holland factory, to recover
the debts; and their houses and godowns they will deliver into
the King's hands, who has promised they shall be safely kept
and looked unto, and returning again be delivered into their
hands; and for more security they have determined to take a
writing of him or some of his "bundewes. Signed by Richard
Cocks, Joseph Cockram, Jno. Osterwick, William Eaton, and
Edmond Sayer. English Factory, Firando, 16th December 1623.
Commission left in the hands of Cornelius Newrode, chief of
the Hollanders' factory of Firando, "at our departure thence."
Notwithstanding their best endeavours, many of their debts
are standing out still, which time will not permit them before
their departure to recover; wherefore they presume, "according
to our President's order and your General's grant," to repose
their trust upon him, intreating his good endeavours for procuring all such debts as they shall leave behind, for account of
the English Company, and what he shall recover, to make over
to their President in "soma or seda plate." Enclose a Japan
writing or letter of attorney, authorising him to demand and
receive all moneys due to their Company, and also the account
of debts. Signed by Richard Cocks, Joseph Cockram, Jno.
Osterwick, Wm. Eaton, and Edmond Sayer. English Factory,
Firando, 22nd December 1623. Enclosed,
Account of Debts due to the Company from their factory of
Firando, by Japoners and others, as per their bills left with
Captain Cornelius Newrode, principal of the Hollanders factory
in Firando, to recover. |
|
|
Ts. |
ms. |
cond. |
|
Tonomonsama, the King's brother, as per his bill |
417 |
0 |
7 |
|
Semidono " |
670 |
6 |
0 |
|
Owkeno Camme " |
33 |
0 |
0 |
|
Tackamondono " |
437 |
0 |
0 |
|
Sansamondono " |
70 |
4 |
0 |
|
Soyemondono " |
18 |
0 |
0 |
|
Shefeodono " |
30 |
0 |
0 |
|
Eado Shoboydono " |
17 |
7 |
3 |
|
Congawa Lizamondono " |
100 |
0 |
0 |
|
Kemore Jewboydono, " |
51 |
6 |
9 |
|
China Captain Andreas " " |
6,636 |
0 |
0 |
|
Matsnanga Kitchzamondono " |
153 |
5 |
9 |
|
Cawabuch Kewierodono " |
200 |
0 |
0 |
|
Amea Shimboidono " |
50 |
2 |
0 |
|
Aweamatch Sansadono " |
51 |
4 |
0 |
|
Yoshemoro Shojerodono " |
3,218 |
0 |
0 |
|
Cusamondono, of Nangasaque " |
155 |
5 |
4 |
|
Yoshemondono and Cofeodono of Nangasque, as
per his bill |
291 |
8 |
3 |
|
Coe Juan, jurobassoe " |
200 |
0 |
0 |
|
Grosayemondono, sometime jurobassoe " |
19 |
7 |
5 |
|
Somma totalis |
12,821 |
8 |
0 |
|
[Together, eleven pages. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1115.] |
July 26.
London. |
307. Chamberlain to Carleton. Our East India Company was at a
low ebb but is now somewhat afloat again by the arrival of three
ships richly laden, but hear as whispering that the Spanish Ambassador hath a meaning to arrest them upon pretence of the business
of Ormuz. [Extract from Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol., CXLIX.,
No. 48, Cal., p. 30.] |
| July 30. |
308. [Sec. Conway] to Mr. Fotherley. The King has directed the
East India merchants to present to the Duchess of Buckingham
2,000l. in gold. Her Grace is to be acquainted with it that the
money may be disposed of for the advantage of the Duke's service.
[Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CXLIX., No. 97, Cal., p. 38.] |
| July 30. |
309. Sec Conway to the Duchess of Buckingham. The King has
commanded him to inform her Grace that the East India Company
will attend her with a present of 2,000l. and that Mr. Fotherley will
wait on her with information of the most proper way for the distribution of it. [Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CXLIX., No. 98,
Cal., p. 38.] |
| July 30. |
310. Sec. Conway to the Governor of the East India Company. It
is the King's pleasure that the 2,000l. in gold be given to the
Duchess of Buckingham to be by her disposed of to the use of her
Lord. [Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CXLIX., No. 99, Cal., p. 38.] |
| July 30 to Aug. 6. |
311. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Request of
William Biddulph concerning his chest and goods on the Jonas.
Motion on behalf of Sir Randall Cranfield, formerly a suitor to the
Company, whose brother the Lord Treasurer had requested with
importunity, that the Company would give him out the money he
had paid into the new stock, which was refused as not in their
power to do, but it was agreed to give the Lord Treasurer content,
to grant three freedoms if they may procure the sale of Sir Randall's
adventure, and both himself and the Lord Treasurer be satisfied.
Order of Chancery presented by George Ball for the delivery of
certain things in a note annexed; it is observed, that Ball by often
and private importunities doth gain much upon the Company, and
that his successes do much puff him up; committee to inform the
Lord Keeper that the Company had performed the orders in a
liberal manner, as for his wearing apparel, but to deliver 160 shirts
and other things as the proportion of necessity, they did not conceive
to be his Lordship's meaning; howbeit they would obey his directions
therein. Distribution of the committees by two and two for unlading the Lion and Jonas, each two to serve for one day and no more.
Extraordinary care and pains of Mr. Swanley for stowing all things
aboard the Charles. Concerning the pepper in the Lesser James; it
is thought fit that a dividend of half a capital be taken out by those
that will. Discussion whether the price of pepper should be 18d. or
19d. referred to a General Court.
Minutes of a General Court of the East India Company; those
absent to be fined 12d. each. Half a capital to be divided in
pepper, the price to be lowered 1d. The Dutch at variance among
themselves as to price, yet they have contracted for as much as will
fill the markets of all Christendom. The Governor declared that
"their affairs both in the one and the other Indies are in reasonable
good state." |
