|
Dec. 11 to 1624,
Jan. 9. |
359. Examinations of John Weddall, Richard Blythe, Charles
Clevenger, Gamaliel Embrey, surgeon of the London, and Jas. Beversham. Concerning the value of the prizes taken by the East India
Company's ships under their command, Portuguese and Chinese; also
the value of the spoil at the taking of Ormuz, in diamonds, jewels,
chains of gold, plate, monies, &c. Capt. Weddall says it was
between 22,000l. and 25,000l. [Sixteen pages, with marginal notes
in the handwriting of Ed. Nicholas. East Indies, Vol. II., No. 84.] |
| 1623? |
360. "Propositions concerning the profits to be raised to his
Majesty from the island of Ormuz." The King of Persia cannot
hold Ormuz one year without aid by sea, and it is doubted whether
that King or our merchants have possession of it now; it is reported
that the latter, upon the taking of Ormuz, had the customs of that
island and half the spoil. The customs were worth to the King of
Spain 400,000l. per annum [sic], and would be again if merchants
might traffic in safety. It is said that our merchants now make
100,000l. per annum of the customs. Six men of war and 200 men in
the castle under a governor, at a cost of about 50,000l. per annum will
defend the island against the Spaniard. No fear of the Portugals
but two months in the year. All customs from other nations will
come into his Majesty's coffers. The King of Persia should be
moved to deliver up Ormuz to his Majesty, under certain conditions,
and it should then be the mart town for our merchants. [Endorsed
as above. One page. East Indies, Vol. II. No. 85.] |
| 1623 ? |
361. Petition of Thomazin Powell, with 30 other poor distressed
widows, to Viscount Mandeville, President of the Privy Council.
Set forth the loss of their husbands' and children's lives and goods,
violently taken from them at the Moluccas by the Hollanders. The
Council promised that as the States of Holland gave the merchants
satisfaction, so the merchants should give the petitioners satisfaction,
who were thereupon referred to the Trinity House [see ante, No. 292],
and thence to the Admiralty Court to produce proof of their losses.
Sir Henry Marten, Judge of the Admiralty, will allow them nothing
but wages, out of which deductions are made by the East India
Company. Pray for further relief, as being ready to starve and
destitute of all comfort. [Domestic Corresp., Jac I., Vol. CXXIV.,
No. 105, Cal. p. 329.] |
| 1623 ? |
362. Abstract of divers petitions and complaints against the
Dutch for wrongs done in the East Indies. The names of the
petitioners are as follow, viz.:— |
|
Chambers, Marie. |
Lambert, Gartwright. |
|
Cobb, Eliz. |
Langram, Susan. |
|
Coke, Katherine. |
May, Margaret. |
|
Cowley, Barbara. |
May, Thomasine. |
|
Echill, Sam. |
Meade, Valentine. |
|
Garlick, Eliz. |
Miller, Marie. |
|
Greene, John. |
Powell, Thomasin. |
|
Grice, Ann. |
Rickman, Priscilla. |
|
Howlett, Robt. |
Selbie, Maudlin. |
|
Johnson, Marie. |
Thomson, Martha. |
|
Jourdain, Charles. |
Tucker, John. |
|
Jourdain, John (decd.). |
Vinney, Susan. |
|
Knight, Alice. |
Watkins, Nat. |
|
—[Two pages. East Indies, Vol. II., No. 86.] |
1623.
Dec. 12. |
363. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Great sums of
money having been brought to account for fresh victuals expended
aboard their ships outward bound, and the former allowance having
been an occasion to draw a great number of strangers aboard to the
Company's great charge; ordered that no fresh victuals shall be
thenceforth allowed after they are once past Tilbury Hope. The
Lord Treasurer, desiring to buy 40 or 50 silk quilts, ordered that he
shall have them at 6l. per quilt. An offer of Dutch merchants to buy
325 bales of silk at 22s. per lb.; accepted on certain conditions, but to
be kept secret. The project for fresh water to be made of salt water,
and what recompence will be fit to be given to the inventor re
ferred to another time. Concerning the sufficiency of Henry (George,
in the margin) Wheatley, mate in the Jonas. Examination of
Capt. Weddall, as to the value of the goods taken at Ormuz; he said
he esteemed them at 20,000l., "but that the service stood the Company, one way and another, in three times that value:" further that
he had received summons to attend the Lord Admiral; the Court
advised him to deal clearly and to make true answer to anything
that shall be demanded of him. In reference to the complaint of
Widow Powell and others to the Council their Lordships have
ordered that according to such payment as the Dutch have agreed to
make to the English for pillage, the Company shall make restitution
to the mariners that lost their goods and no otherwise; the Court
remembered that in the late treaty, the motion being made before
the Lords, the Dutch rejected the same, and as for Powell's widow,
she had received money at several times, and the Company had sent
her son into the Indies to ease her (though able to do them no
service), but since she has become so troublesome it was now resolved to send for him home again. Committee appointed to attend
the Lords and give them satisfaction concerning that business.
Complaint of Messrs. Moore and Buggins, servants to the clerks of
the Council, that they have not been considered for services in the
late treaty; to be gratified with 20s. each. The Lord Treasurer to be
moved about the exportation of calicoes. The Company's secretary
to be present at the meeting of the Generality concerning Mr. Prusson.
Report ef the committee appointed to consider the purser's book of
the Jonas; that they find no vouchers, and it is a common thing for
pursers to deliver such accounts; ordered that all masters and pursers
be at the Court on Wednesday next, where they shall be reproved
and admonished: some of opinion that if one of the pursers be
removed, the rest will be warned. [Three pages and a half. Court
Minute Book, VI., pp. 304–308.] |
Dec. 12.
Batavia. |
364. Protest by John Goninge, Richard Welden, and George Bruen,
by order of President Thomas Brockedon, against the Dutch General,
Pieter de Carpentier and Council. That they have to the uttermost
of their power inviolably kept the articles of the treaty of 1619
concerning the general trade, but that the Netherlanders have
wilfully violated and broken the most material and important
articles of which the English have often complained in vain, and
have long laboured to reconcile and reform. They will in this
instrument only insert the chief heads of their complaints, and so
leave them to the consideration of competent judges. First, the
Netherlanders exact custom in Batavia against the fourth article,
and in Banda constrain the English to pay excise, and will not
suffer them to make sale of slaves. Secondly, they protest against
the intolerable exactions of the Nethelanders in the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda, under pretence of maintenance of garrison and
fortification, the English Company being forced to pay twice as much
as they are bound by the contract; all which abuses they collected
into 36 articles and delivered to the Dutch General on 9 January last
(see ante, No. 236). Thirdly, they protest against the Netherlanders
assuming legal authority over all the subjects of the King, and
subjecting them to seizures, bodily punishments, and confiscations,
"and of late Harman Van Speult, your Governor of Amboyna, after
he had with most unsufferable and hellish torments, not heretofore
heard of amongst Christians, forced certain Japans to accuse our
people of treason, and then with the like torments constrained our
people to confess such impossible conspiracies as no mortal enemy
of our nation would ever have believed, so that the very heathen
did exclaim and wonder at those cruel procedings, and last of all
proceeded to the barbarous execution of Capt. Gabriel Towerson and
nine others, factors and assistants of his Maj. subjects in Amboyna,"
which said execution the General and his Council have approved,
and have denied the English copies of the examinations and forced
confessions. Fourthly, that the Netherlanders restrain them from
the commerce of Bantam, being the main pillar of all their (the
English) employments in these parts, notwithstanding their protest
of 25 June last, wherein they amply confuted the vain pretences of
the Netherlanders to the contrary, who still declare their resolution
to oppose the English going to Bantam by force of arms, whereby
the English remain destitute of cheap lading, and are constrained to
procure pepper elsewhere at intolerable rates; that the Netherland's committee make a show of besieging Bantam for their own
ends, those of Bantam having egress and regress as freely as ever
they had in times of peace, and the Netherlanders using all means
to provoke them to bring pepper aboard their ships and suffer
others to go and come under their free passes; only the English
are debarred; that the Netherlanders suffer the Chinese freely to
buy pepper brought from Bantam, and at Sangora and Ligor the
English are prohibited trade under pretence of a contract made with
the King before the articles of Accord, which is expressly against
the meaning thereof. Fifthly, that by the 10th article of the treaty,
the defence was chiefly to be employed for gaining the trade of
China, to which end the English had set forth two stout fleets for
the Manillas in company with the Netherlanders; notwithstanding
the Netherlands General dispeeded a great fleet to surprise Macao,
and failing there have fortified the Piscadores, hoping thereby to
gain the trade of China to themselves, for Capt. Clevenger arriving
before Macao in the Palsgrave, offered to land his forces in the
same attempt with the Dutch, but their commander, Reyerssen,
scornfully rejected Capt. Clevenger's assistance, saying the exploit
was for their own Company alone, and the English had no interest
therein. Sixthly, that in the fleet, by joint consent set forth for
the coast of Goa and Mozambique, in 1622, Admiral Jacob Dedell,
in contempt of his commission, and against the will and consent of
Capt. Humphrey Fitzherbert, sent away two of his ships about
private merchandizing to the Red Sea, which proved the utter
overthrow of the voyage; for when they came before Mozambique
with three English and two Dutch ships they met three caracs and
a galleon, exceeding rich, the Viceroy being in person, and had
taken them all if their forces had been united, whereas they only
got a small sum of ryals out of a carac they sunk. And the more
to confirm Admiral Dedell's faithless and obstinate proceedings both
commanders agreed to sail from Choul, and the English fleet
accordingly went there and lay there almost a month; but Dedell
sailed directly for Surat about the particular affairs of his master's,
and meantime another carac and galleon arrived safely in Goa,
"which double dealing of you of the Netherlands Company hath
given us just cause to, to suspect your sincerity in such actions of
defence," or rather offensive war, seeing your performance extends
no further than makes for your particular ends and benefits.
Seventh, that they refuse to deliver up to us the island of Pooloroon absolutely, according to Article 9 of the Accord, but with
restrictions and limitations, and having formerly put to death all
the inhabitants under the pretence of treason, refuse to let the
English people the island. Lastly, that the General of the Netherlands' Company on 2/12 August 1623, protested against the English
for not continuing "those hostile and offensive exploits shadowed
under the name of necessary common defence; but the premises
being seriously weighed, namely, their appropriating the trade of
China, their exactions and bloody executions in the Moluccas,
Amboyna, and Banda, their opposing free commerce with Bantam,
Sangora, &c., and their faithless dealing in the common defence,
who can justly blame the English for refusing to unite in exploits
where their trade is no way opposed. Therefore the President and
Council in behalf of the English Company protest against the
Netherlands Company, and their General and committees in particular, for all the losses and damages sustained by the English
Company, and more particularly against their usurpation of power
and authority over the subjects of our gracious Sovereign, and for
those indignities drawn upon him by their "reproachful oppressions,
barbarous executions, and confiscations;" against their unjust exactions in the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda (a principal cause that
they are constrained to desist from trade there); their refusal to
deliver Pooloroon, according to agreement and the articles; their
opposition of free commerce at Bantam and elsewhere; their advantageous and cautelous proceedings in remote defence or rather
offensive war; and more particularly for all losses sustained by the
sinister practices of Admirall Dedell, and for the attempt against
Macao and fortification of the Piscadores, without their knowledge
and consent. Also, they disclaim the charge pretended for the siege
of Bantam, and refuse to join in any action otherwise than is
expressed in their former Act. Endorsed, "Received in London
29 May 1624, out of Holland, by the Pinnace Hazewindt." A copy
of this paper was inclosed by Sec. Conway to Carleton in letter of
25 June 1624 see ante No. 364. [Eight pages. East Indies, Vol. II.,
No. 71.] |
| Dec. 12. |
365. Copy of the latter part of the above protest. Imperfect.
Four pages. The following memorandum is added in Latin: "This
schedule was shown to Jeremiah Sambrook the 24th July 1654, and
mention is made thereof in his deposition given on the part of the
Anglo-Indian Company before the Anglo-Dutch Commissioners,
Guilh. Chrymes in the presence of John Theod. Borchloon." [O.C.
Vol. X., No. 1128.] |
Dec. 13.
Batavia. |
366. President Thomas Brockedon to William Hallidaie, Governor
of the East India Company. Whereas in several private letters to
their President deceased, the Governor gave order for examination
of divers offences, whereof Augustine Spaldinge was accused more
than a year before, Spalding made request to the President and
Council, that they would examine the matter, and give certificate to
the Company if they found him guiltless; and finding after examination that most part of those matters whereof he was accused were
false, a certificate was delivered to him, copy whereof is sent herewith (wanting). From private trade he cannot wholly clear himself,
but that he should drive so prejudicial a trade as is reported is most
untrue. The order for suppressing private trade shall not want
their endeavours to execute so far forth as they may. In reference to
his own employment; has often been a suitor for license to return for
England; his covenanted time was but five years, but was content to
stay one year longer. Cannot conceive a fitter man for "this prime
place of President," than Henry Hawley. Is sorry his poor endeavors
have not given the Company content, but entreats his favorable
construction in such matters wherein he has failed, and imputes the
same to the many businesses heaped upon him by the death of the
President. Hopes he will not construe amiss his resolution to return
next year. The factors in Jambi, Japan, Siam, and Patani are not
yet arrived, nor have they given account as they ought, but next year
he intends to balance up the general accounts. Sends by Spaldinge
a "Caccatoa" to his worship, and a China bedstead to Mr. William
Freeman, legacies from Mr. Fursland. Prays that, seeing he is destitute of friends, he will take him into his protection. [Two pages.
Endorsed, "By the Exch[ange]." O.C., Vol. X., No. 1129.] |
Dec. ?
(Batavia.) |
367. Thomas Brockedon, Aug. Spaldinge, Henrie Hawley, and
John Goninge to Robert Johnson and the rest of the merchants at
Jambi. Stevinton's letters and accounts sent by the Moon, came to
their hands the 30th October, and they were not a little grieved to
understand the great leak sprung upon the Moon, whereby her
intended voyage for England is made void. They take notice of the
great trouble caused of their unruly people; Powell they will call to
account for his "beastly fault." Are sorry to understand of their
continual trouble and danger by "that perverse king and people";
all which might be easily remedied if the Dutch did not so obstinately oppose their going for Bantam, the want of which trade
constrains them to suffer more indignities than were otherwise
tolerable. Can prescribe no certain order to redress or prevent those
abuses, but they must make no breach with the King, or give over
trade there, for the Company exceedingly press for returns which
must chiefly come from Jambi, seeing Bantam continues shut and
small hope of alteration without further order from Europe. If they
think it needful for security to keep on board a ship before the
town, and out of her to make sale of their commodities, hold it not
amiss, so it may be done without giving offence to the King. If no
fair courses may prevail with him, and he is obstinately bent to
overthrow their trade and endanger their lives, then refer it to them
to prevent his mischievous purposes in the best manner they may.
The Coast and Surat ships not yet arrived, wherefore they will
dispeed the Rose with such cloth as they advise for. If they can
not put off the Japan silver, let it be sent to them. Intend to give
John Bailey his deserts; when bodily punishment will not restrain
the unruliness of their people, they should be punished in the purse
by fines, for which the Company has given full authority. The
Diamond, the Abigail, which long since is sent to the coast of
Sumatra, and the Roebuck all draw too much water to go over the
bar at Jambi. Concerning the price of pepper; our masters complain exceedingly of the high price. Require that they "inviolably
observe" their agreement with the Dutch. To bring pepper lower
than 6½ ryals the picul they hold it not convenient. To use the
pinnace Spy to carry their goods and monies up the river. Weakness of the Dutch in the Straits of Malacca. Do not a little wonder
that there should be such great difference betwixt his (Johnson's)
accounts and Stevinton's; he had done well to have sent back
Jonas [Colbach]. The Unity arrived lately from Tecoe with pepper,
and upon advice of Mr. Man, &c. they dispeeded the Discovery and
Abigail thither. Daily expect the Elizabeth and Reformation laden
from Acheen. In want of their accounts, for the Company require
an inventory of all their stock in India. Wax from Japara is very
dear; they need buy no quantity. They cannot send a ship to
Malacca on purpose to carry the Portugals to their own doors. They
did well to put Oliver Strank from his stewardship. Johnson's
request to come from Jambi upon the Anne and so for England
they have granted, and have sent Thomas Staverton to succeed him
as principal, to whom the goods, monies, provisions, moveables,
slaves, &c. belonging to the Company are to be delivered by inventory, to be subscribed by Staverton and Bogan. All debts standing
may be acknowledged before the King or Sabander, and a distinction
be made between good and desperate debts. Have determined to
lade the Moon's pepper aboard the Royal Exchange, and hope to
have the Elizabeth from Acheen to dispeed for England in her
company. Instructions as to the employment of the Coaster, the
Bear, the Bee, and the Rose. Hold it dangerous to send one ship
for England alone, because of the abundance of pirates lurking in all
places. Have sent three chests of money and other goods. Hope
to furnish them plentifully with cloth. Two assistants go with
Mr. Staverton, viz., Robert Randall and Richard Croft. Desire they
furnish themselves plentifully, having such choice, and send hither
the unprofitable drones that they may be sent for England. To
communicate their letters to Thomas Staverton, and take his advice
in all matters of consequence. Send a Portugal captain whose ship
was taken by the Coaster, having given him his liberty on promise
to use his uttermost endeavours to obtain the release of our people
at Malacca. Our employers have after much trouble concluded with
the Dutch for matter of restitution, and are in hand to frame certain
orders for reglement of trade in these parts; it is high time, for as
it now stands our masters must needs be great losers. Have delivered Staverton a commission for government of the Company's
servants in Jambi both ashore and aboard the ships, and certain
orders from England, strictly to be observed. Express order was
sent by the Anne to seize the estate of Tho. Turner, purser of the
ship, whose dishonest practices at the taking of the caracs are made
more manifest, and yet Johnson advises nothing of what he has
done. Require him to put that order in execution as he will answer
the contrary. Hope they will procure the Anne's lading so that
she may be dispeeded for England this year. Postscript.—President
Richard Fursland departed this life the 18th October last, to the
inestimable loss of our employers. [Six pages. O.C., Vol. X.,
No. 1153.] |
Dec. 14.
Batavia. |
368. Thomas Brockedon, Henrie Hawley, and John Goninge to
the East India Company. Their last was of the 9th of February by
the Palsgrave (see ante, No. 264), since which time the Abigail,
Roebuck, Hart, and Coaster have arrived; the Abigail making a
long passage, whereby she lost seven men. Through the deep lading
of the Roebuck she narrowly escaped the same rock where the
Trial was cast away. She lost four men. The Hart lost but three
men. By the passages of these three ships it appears that in that
southerly latitude of 40° the winds are most constant and strong
from May till October. The Coaster lost two men. About 500
leagues short of the Cape she took a Portugal vessel of 150 tons
after a doubtful fight of 12 hours; this vessel, which was "so
spoiled in fight" as to be unable to proceed for India, came out
of Lisbon with three caracs, three galleons, and another vessel, for
the regaining of Ormuz; she had 86 men in her, but nothing of
value. The captain and nine men were brought to this place. At
Saldanha Bay the Abigail met the Lesser James in company of
her consort the Dutch Lioness and the Maid of Dort; the Roebuck
met the London, Jonas, and Lion, all well. The Hart found letters
of the arrival of General Coen at the Cape, but the Palsgrave was
not arrived, though more than three months from this place. Have
received the full number of chests of ryals, lead, and provisions,
according to invoice; also several letters, "the book of the tractate,
articles of agreement for restitution, the King's Commission, declarations," &c. Will endeavour in future to be as perspicuous as they
can in all important matters. The satisfaction required by the
Company for the murder of George Cokayne cannot with justice
be performed upon the Chinese, for those who committed that vile
fact were not men of any account, but rogues, who after they had
acted their bloody villany fled to Malacca. Besides, your worships
have found by experience how the Dutch here have handled us
for meddling with the Chinese in a case more clear than this;
and though you write us we should not be deterred by them, yet
when you shall understand their late abominable and detestable
proceedings against your servants in Amboyna, we doubt not but
you will confess that we have reason to beware how we incur
their unlimited tyrannous injustice. For those of Cheribon the
case is the same; for the Clove in her last voyage brought in a
praw of that place, but General Coen "in a kind of between entreating and threatening fashion" sent to wish us to deliver over the
praw and men; and had we not granted his will, we well perceived he was resolved to have forced us with disgrace to have
released them, so that we must forbear to meddle with them until
by strong power and authority from our Sovereign we may be freed
from the yoke we are now subjected under. Concerning the benefit
of trading in Sangora and Ligor, will best be able to relate, when the
Bee shall return from Siam. Remarks on the Company's view of
ordering the trade in conjunction with the Dutch in the Moluccas,
Amboyna, and Banda; answer the points referred to them by the
Company, which they say are worthy of better consideration: they
were not so well experienced as they could have wished, and had
none to direct them but their competitors the Dutch, unto whom
the Company referred them for information. Conceived that some
things in their agreement would be to their prejudice, yet found not
sufficient reasons for them to break off with the Dutch, and not
make trial of that trade; whereas if they had refused to join, the
Dutch might justly have complained and protested against them for
breach of the articles. Are now better acquainted with the manner
of trade in those parts; in reference to the "fruits" which are
yearly reaped and the charges: the manner of growing and receiving
cloves is once a year. Their debts come not in so speedily as they
supposed, and they can get nothing but frivolous answers from the
Dutch. The stock sent to those factories was not sufficient, but if
Dutch had suffered them to pay their third of the charges as themselves did (viz., in cloth and victuals), one third part of that might
have been advanced to the Company's profit. Hope the Company
will receive full satisfaction for the sums they can prove the Dutch
have unjustly extorted for them. Yielded conditionally to the
clothing and feeding of the soldiers by the Dutch with their own
provisions. Under pretext of necessary cloths and victuals, the
Dutch pay the soldiers their whole wages therein, and thereby
defeat the Company of the vent of their merchandize, contrary to
the articles of agreement. Acknowledge it to be very needful that
a limited number of soldiers be established by the Council on both
sides for the several garrisons, but the Dutch will not suffer them
to meddle or make herein, which notwithstanding it be absolutely
contrary to the articles of accord, yet in this and all other matters
of importance their wills are laws, and by their forces they do and
will so maintain it, without regard either to reason, justice, or
equity; which may also be applied to Coen's going in person to the
Moluccas, where the Company say he ought not to have undertaken
any such service before he had propounded it to the Council; it is
most certain he made them not acquainted for what place and purpose he intended his forces, though he said all men knew he went
for Banda. Concerning trade in the Moluccas; will deal as cautelously with the Dutch as they may, and hold them to the articles of
the treaty, but to reduce them to conformity and concurrence with
themselves in that trade is utterly impossible. To prevent all
wrongs there is but one way, and that is wholly to separate ourselves from them. Wherefore have begun to give over that trade,
and have just cause wholly to relinquish it except other order come
from the Company. Reasons why the Company's project of sending
a ship for the Red Sea from Masulipatam cannot be effected in so
short a time as they conceived; have written to the factors there to
advise them what goods are fitting for such a voyage. In reply to
the Company's order that they yield no conformity to the usurped
sovereignty of the Dutch, but protest against all their proceedings;
they heartily wish the Company had sent them such orders from
the King as might have freed them from that intolerable yoke, for
until such absolute power come they have no hope to obtain remedy.
Perceive the slow proceedings of the Dutch Commissioners; but if
the Company had rightly weighed the desperate state they now
stand in, they would have found it most needful to have sent
sufficient order before all other business, to release and free them
from such mischievous and devilish practices against their persons
and affairs. Are in hope to receive orders for their freedom, and in
the interim commit themselves to God, who hath hitherto preserved
them out of the jaws of those more fell than lions. The Dutch
have at least 16 ships on the coast of China and at their fort of the
Piscadores, but if any good be done they will let the Company have
no share in their achievements. The English factors have not
sufficient capacity to prevent the manifold deceits, fraudulent tricks,
and circumventions of the Dutch. Some more resolute and discreet
should be appointed to undertake the great charge the Company
has, contrary to the writer's desire, put upon them. Have not been
wronged by the Dutch in the matter of their joint consultations,
as the Company conceived; but confess they (the English) have
not taken the place of precedence which every other month is due
to them in regard of the greatness and sovereign power in this
place of the Dutch. Do not repent in this, but if they have done
wrong ask pardon for their ignorance and error (if any be committed). The Company's blame of them concerning Capt. Fitzherbert is undeserved; have always given him his due respect, and
he had little cause to write that he was your water-bailif, for
never man of his place did less in that charge. If not admitting
him in the Council of Defence were the cause of his discontent,
they only followed the Company's orders. After his return from
the Moluccas, where he was appointed principal for directing those
affairs, he was admitted one of the Council of Defence, but how little
help they had from him, himself well knew; "more we could say
concerning him, but being dead we leave him." Having now better
help of writers, they will send in future double copies of their letters
by the Dutch ships. Plainly perceive by "the book of the tractate"
sent to them the Company's sincere and royal proceedings with the
Dutch Commissioners in handling the differences which "our lordlike
competitors here will never be brought to, as derogating from their
greatness." The Company seem to be very jealous that there should
not be faithful dealing in the buying of diamonds; those that
bought them are since returned to England, and can best answer for
themselves, and clear suspicion. Have written to the factors at
Masulipatam that if the mine be open again they may see "how you
were opinion'd and what you will have further performed in providing greater quantities of that commodity." The Bezoars received
of George Ball were belonging to the old joint stock. Cannot excuse
Robert Johnson's irregular courses, yet cannot "miss him in that
factory"; hope he will make amends for what he hath done amiss,
for the misery of that place (Jambi) is such that not one new comer
in ten can have his health there. Smelt's many debts will hardly
satisfy what he owes the Company; both his brothers are dead at
Amboyna. Concerning dead men's estates. The want of good carpenters is exceeding great; not the fourth of those sent know anything what belongs thereto, nor indeed ever were of that profession.
Will endeavour to reform the "vain and idle shooting of powder."
Do not marvel they found many of the pursers' accounts so confused;
many that could scarce write, much less keep any formal account,
have been employed. The death and removing of pursers for their
insufficiency is a principal cause of this disorder. They take notice
of the reducing of both stocks into one; the "implements at the
factory of Japan of small value, and the houses there will be seized
on by the Kings or must be left at the coming away of the factors
from Japan, Patani, and Siam, so that little or nothing will be made
of them. There were no anchors remaining at Jacatra when the
Dutch sacked the Company's house there, nor any other goods or
provisions. Their accounts by the Star will make plain they had
no great stock remaining, the want thereof was the cause the Company had no more returns. The adventurers if they had rightly
understood the state of their affairs in these parts, and how their stock
was employed, would have small cause to fall into admiration and
never enter into consideration of the charges they are at by entring
into that new defensive or rather offensive business with the Hollanders, and how the Hollanders sent out as much money in one
year as they did in three. As for the reports that the pursuit of
pleasure by most of the factors, and the negligence and improvidence
of the rest, has been the cause of their small returns, can prove the
contrary. Are glad to hear that the Hart, Roebuck, Charles, Star, and
Eagle arrived safely, and hope that the other three ships from Surat,
with the James and Palsgrave, are since arrived also safely, and will
again add some life unto their declining affairs. Their uttermost endeavors shall not be wanting to send returns, but if their potent enemies
the Dutch forcibly cross their designs, it lies not in their powers to
remedy it. Have not yet absolutely accounted with the Dutch for
the freight of monies and goods, but doubt not they will be brought
to more reason. Have proceeded with their resolution according to
the Company's desires to withdraw their ships from the Manilla
fleets. It is most true that the Dutch in those exploits intend
chiefly conquest and sovereignty, and "the issue on your part cannot
be other than the consumption of your ships and ruin of your
stocks, than which the Dutch desire nothing more." On account of
the proceedings of Admiral Dedell, so faithless and contrary to the
meaning of his commission on his last voyage and exploit at Mozambique, to the inestimable loss of both Companies, as may appear by
their declaration, they have utterly refused to join in a second
exploit for Goa, or in any other like exploits of those remote defensive or rather offensive wars in places where they have no trade or
residence, until their losses by Dedell be first repaired and their
freedoms restored, according to the articles of agreement, yet in
cause of just defence their utmost forces ever are and shall be in
readiness. Send copies of the demands of the Dutch committees
and their replication. The business of Admiral Dedell was here
referred to the committees of both Companies, but they found the
Dutch so obstinate in maintaining Dedell's actions that this business
could not be brought to any conclusion, but is referred to Europe.
The opinion that the Company shall receive good recompence for the
damages they sustained on the voyage. The whole proceedings are
at large declared in a book herewith sent. One thing only they
will note, that Michael Green charges the Admiral with 63 bags of
money received by him for which he gives no account. In reference
to their supplies of money and the factories at Acheen and Jambi,
cannot find they have sent monies to many unprofitable factories as
the Company write; how long it was before the Company despatched
any supply is best known to themselves, but it pleased God to send
relief before any came from the Company, and again to put life into
their affairs, then at the last gasp, the like whereof they hope shall
never befall them. The supplies now sent had come as happily as
they could have wished for buying pepper at Bantam; if their malicious friends, or rather enemies, the Dutch, would consent they might
go thither to open trade, which would not be denied [by the King
of Bantam]; but the Dutch, seeking to confirm their sovereignty in
this place, delay them with slight reasons and trivial excuses. The
Dutch are well content with what their masters have fraudulently
obtained from you for one year's pretended charges of their lying
before Bantam, and hope of the like for the next year. The
proceedings of the French in Roanne with the Dutch. What
was done jointly could not be less, except free trade should have
been permitted them at Bantam. See no reason why the French
have to question the Company for it. Concerning the seeking a
convenient harbour for security of the Company's shipping; there
are manifold difficulties, for they are certainly assured the Kings
will oppose with all their power the English fortifying in any part
of their dominions. Sent by the Charles draughts of the principal
forts in the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda. If they intend to have
forts there, those of most importance are best worth the demanding
and keeping, viz., the fort in Amboyna, the fort Neira upon Banda,
and the fort at Malaya. Are of opinion that the Netherlands committees never intended the Company should have any footing in
any of their dominions; wherefore it were much better to separate
from them upon any conditions. Will observe the cautions and
limitations the Company have prescribed in the power given to them
of increasing wages to men of desert. Are sorry they are not
thought to have deserved increase of salary as well as others, but as
they intend to come home shortly, will rest contented. Have
admitted Henry Hawley to be one of the Council of Defence, and
wish the Company had sent two or three such men; but the number
of factories being reduced, will not need so many new men as
formerly. Death of John Povey, master's mate of the Abigail, but
entertained master carpenter on 29th Sept. The Globe, Fortune, and
Clove all so rotten they can swim no longer, and the Peppercorn and
Bear must also be laid up. Hector's Island more commodious than
Japara for trimming ships. The late bloody executions of the
Dutch in the Moluccas give us just cause to abandon that trade,
notwithstanding your order to the contrary, which we doubt not
you will approve. The Danish ship went from the coast of Pulicat
but half laden with pepper, and left divers of their people and
36 pieces of ordnance in pawn till means are received from Denmark.
The wormwood wine is thought very wholesome drink outward
bound. Thos. Batten died in the Exchange in the exploit for Goa
and Mozambique. The Dutch, false to all agreements made with
them, to bring down the excessive price of pepper. Mr. Methwold
gone home in the Palsgrave. Ambergris and Sanguis Draconis very
seldom to be had. Will forbear any further investments in calicoes.
The Pulicat powder is not so good as Thos. Mills advised; it will
not keep, being ill-corned, and grows into clods. The Dutch lade
home quantities of saltpetre yearly from thence. Copy of ledger of
the general books is sent herewith; are exceedingly troubled with
the imperfect accounts received from all subordinate factories,
especially in the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda. The surgeon's
provisions and "phisical drugs" would be much more beneficial if
there were a sufficient man to administer them; more need of a
physician than a surgeon; and the one at present here, named
Bradshaw, is such a continual drunkard that nothing can reclaim
him, so that though he have reasonable skill, that beast-like vice
overthrows all his other good parts. Will give special charge to the
homeward-bound ships to be prepared "against the invasion of that
cursed crew of pirates." The obstinacy of the Dutch the reason
pepper is not cheap. The exceeding low price given by the Company
for nuts (nutmegs) in Banda makes the people neglect curing them
as scarce worth their labour. Have given orders for procuring a
good parcel of diamonds of the coast, if the mine be open. Will
make the best use they may of the final accord for restitution from
the Dutch. Touching the first article, will attend their further
order about transporting the Netherlanders' goods in their ships for
Europe. As to the second article, they have not received any of
their ships from the Hollanders, more than the Star, for they utterly
refuse unfurnished ships, perceiving how prejudicial it would be to
the Company's affairs to take them. The Solomon and Defence
were laid up for wrecks at Banda. Concerning the spices taken
by the Dutch at Lantar; demanded the like quantity from them in
Batavia, but were refused. Were never made acquainted by the
Dutch General with "that service of Lantar." It is impossible to have
restitution of Pooloroon in the same state as it was taken by the
Dutch, according to the ninth article, for the Dutch (under colour of
treason) have murdered all the people of the island, the most part
with exceeding torments, so that there is not one of the naturals left.
Are persuaded that the people of Banda, who are fled to Seran
(? Ceram) would repair to the English at Pooloroon if they would
undertake their protection; but the Dutch would use all opposition
possible; however, will demand Pooloroon from the Dutch. If they
think good to fortify there to any purpose the charges will be great,
for the Bandanese are an idle people, and will not be brought to
work at any hand, and it were needful that agreement be made with
the Dutch. Pooloroon is a good island, and in time will yield good
benefit, if not molested by the Dutch; if the Company are resolved
to fortify there it were needful that agreement be made with the
Dutch. Cannot learn that any ryals were given the Company's
people out of the fort (Jacatra), but certain Japan plate was given to
Denton, and one chest of plate to Sir Tho. Dale, as a present from
the Dutch, hoping thereby to have the better usage from him. Are
persuaded the Dutch will not be able to prove that any of our people
received anything but of mere gift. Send the book of charges of the
fort of Pulicat; began 13 June 1620. In several writings against
the Dutch, mentioned in the book of defence, have at large
declared the reasons moving them to depart from Pulicat. Cannot
sufficiently marvel that the Company write they have contributed
8,000l. towards the pretended charges of the siege of Bantam, for
in writings delivered to the Dutch General they have sufficiently
proved the Company to be no way liable, and have disclaimed all
past and future charges. Have had occasion to handle this point at
large with the Dutch, copies whereof are herewith sent in the book
of defence, which they entrcat may be seriously perused. What their
endeavours have been to open the trade of Bantam, and how strongly
opposed by the Dutch, will also plainly appear. Would have been
very glad to have received "an absolute and authentic reglement for
trade." The Dutch much slight the copies sent, not being subscribed; so that until there be further order and confirmation of
them, are like to enjoy no benefit thereby. Have good cause to
desist from joining with the Dutch in offensive wars; refer to their
consultations and the handling of the matter with Dedel. Concern
ing the Dutch forcing payment of the garrisons with victuals and
apparel; must have yielded to them or have had no trade in those
parts; neither yet are like to have, unless they continue to contribute
to their unreasonable exactions and subject themselves to their
bloody tyranny. Have handled at large the Dutch General's proceedings in taking Banda in their answers to the Netherlanders of
5th Sept.; it was a great neglect that our people did not protest
against his proceedings in Banda. The Dutch have built forts upon
Lantar, and to require them to demolish them might " bring our
persons in danger for meddling with their sovereignty." Have sent
the Rose with John Brook to search out the most convenient place
to fortify in. It is not strange that the Dutch have great advantage
in their consultations; themselves proceeding in all sincerity according to the contract, whereas the Dutch contrarywise. If the writings now sent be seriously perused concerning the common defence,
besieging of Bantam, their desistance from the trade of Moluccas,
Amboyna, and Banda, their complaints against Dedell, and answers
to the writings of the Dutch, are confident that the advantage will
not appear so great. It is worth noting that ever since they refused
to yield unto all points, they could never agree on any matter of
importance. The Dutch "will have their wills or conclude nothing."
Have received the King's commission, and will to the uttermost of
their power endeavour to govern those under their command with
moderation, but desire some form of law for proceeding in capital
causes. The Dutch are very precise in this kind, for they have an
express rule set down for punishment of all offences, from the least
to the greatest. The Company's seal-at-arms is so great they can
make no use thereof, having none but hard wax. John Humphrey
hath leave to go home in the first ship; continue to send home
those that have been longest in the country. Will send home by
every ship the tamarinds advised for. The journals and ledgers of
the pursers are herewith sent, also the books of John Booth, purser
of the Star. Thomas Sprake (Spragge) is long since dead, who in
his lifetime was a common drunkard, and fit for no employment; he
was sent from Surat with others of the like quality ("being such as
commonly that factory can afford us"). Concerning the accounts of
Robert Hayes; can give no reason how the money was taken up by
Courthope. Send herewith a journal of daily passages, beginning
with the departure of the Palsgrave, 11 Feb. 1623, and continued by
the late President, Richard Fursland, until 22 Sept. 1623. The
16th Oct. it pleased God to take him to his mercy, and the next
day he was buried. The journal has been continued by Thomas
Brockedon, who was desirous to have gone for England, but preferring the Company's service before his particular benefit, was contented to remain one year longer. The Goa fleet, viz., the Royal
Anne, Exchange, and Diamond, arrived in this road in May and
June, having in a manner made a lost voyage, through the perfidious
dealing of the Dutch Admiral Dedell, chiefly by sending away two
of his best ships for the Red Sea about particular merchandizing,
the want whereof was the only occasion of not taking three rich
caracs and one galleon. The value taken amounts to 36,591 ryals.
In this, as well as in the Manilla voyages, there has been exceeding
gross pilfering by the commanders as well as mariners. Michael
Green, elected chief commander of the English forces after Capt. Fitzherbert's decease, short in his account 8,453 ryals, part given to
Bartholomew Goodale, master of the Ann, and Thos. Turner,
purser; have ordained his estate to be seized to the Company's use,
and send him to England to answer his demerits. Intend calling
the others to account on their return from Jambi. Send certain
relations against Mr. Munden in his Manilla voyage. Edmond
Lenmyes, commander of the Elizabeth, accused to have embezzled
great matters in his Manilla voyage; only a small matter found at
his death. Send draughts of several places in the Straits of Sunda,
whereof the isle of Great Bessee is the most convenient to fortify in
at small charge; an excellent harbour, and no place better situated
for trade; but without inhabitants or victuals, unless the Pengran
of Bantam give his consent (of which they have little hope) the
difficulties will be exceeding great, and they must bring everything in their ships from elsewhere. The late loss of the master
of the Rose and five others, sent upon discovery of this business,
has taught them that no trust is to be given to those barbarous
people. Have motioned this matter to the Dutch, but received a
doubtful answer, so cannot without further order begin any fortification. Their goods in no small danger of fire in straw houses; shall
be constrained to build warehouses. Complain of the quality of
provisions sent; the casks so slight and thin that half the arrack and
butter leaks out before it arrives. The cordage is likewise very
bad. The cheeses utterly spoilt by laying in tar. Lead in pigs not
so vendible as in bars, and above 30 per cent. difference in price.
Broad cloth and "fine perpetuanos of good and lively colours"
would yearly vend in these parts; also four or five mastiffs "of
a fair and stout kind;" five or six cases of strong waters (of red
and yellow colours), and some fair pictures of small value very
acceptable for presents. The King of Macassar is very kind to
our nation, and would willingly pay for several things noted herewith. Send an abstract of the stock in India in all places,
except Jambi, Japan, Siam, and Patani: the three latter factories
dissolved. Have trimmed this year the Exchange, Ann, Rose, and
Unity, and there remain to be sheathed the Moon, Ruby, Bee, and
Diamond; exceeding want of carpenters, the mortality very great,
principally through their own disorderly drunkenness. The ships
remaining in the Indies are, the Moon, Ann, Hart, Discovery, Ruby,
Roebuck, Diamond, Coaster, Abigail, Unity, Bull, Rose, and Bee.
Hope to lade the Moon and Ruby for England next year, and the
Ann, now at Jambi, and Discovery, on the coast of Sumatra, this
year. The Coaster and Rose are sent for Jambi, the Abigail for
Sumatra, and the Roebuck for Macassar, to lie out for Portugals
coming from Macao. The Bear must be laid up. The Bull not yet
arrived from Japan, nor the Bee from Siam. Will send the Hart,
Diamond, and Unity to Acheen and the coast of Coromandel. The
Clove, Supply, Fortune, Peppercorn, and Globe laid up; the Peppercorn lying at Hector's Island for a careening ship. Have augmented
the wages of the following men:—Robert Johnson, long chief at
Jambi, offered 120l. per annum if he would remain two years longer,
but he refusing, returns for England. Thomas Staverton to remain
three years at 100l. per annum and to succeed Johnson. John Hutchins,
clerk of the stores, to have 50l. per annum rising 10l. for three years;
the same to Edward Chapman, who is since dead; and to Andrew
Coggins, who has served eight years and is now chief at Japara; and
5l. per month to Robert Hackwell, master of the Rose, the better to
encourage deserving men of his coat. Have made choice of Langton,
mate in the Coaster, to succeed Povey, deceased. Others, earnest
suitors, either to go home or have their wages augmented. Request
of Thomas Staverton to pay two thirds of his wages, and other sums
due to him from Edward Pike and Capt. Towerson to Capt. John
Watts, of Matton [? Watton] in Hertfordshire; he is an honest and
sufficient man. Fursland on his death-bed much complained that he
had not kept so exact account of his particular estate as was requisite;
he brought a good stock out of England, and Brockedon can witness
his manner of augmenting it; disposition of his estate; the account
for his mother sent open for the Company's perusal. Have appointed
Robert Adams commander of the Elizabeth, Capt. Lenmyes being
deceased, John Brooke, commander of the Moon, and Mr. Munden,
to go home master of the Exchange under Aug. Spaldinge. Commend Richard Swanley, long time master of the Exchange, for
preferment. The Danes have laden this year at the Coast about
400 tons of pepper with some calico from Denmark. The Prince of
Tanjore or Naick of those parts hath often invited us to live in his
country, promising great privileges and favours, and now by the
Ruby is come an Englishman named Johnson, who hath lain about
18 months at the Naick's court, "as a pawn for the pepper first sent
home by the Danes," who reports that the Naick, having heard the
English to be a peaceable nation, has a great desire that they should
trade in his dominions, wherefore have resolved to send a ship thither.
The Portugals have lived long in his country, but he refuses to have
the Dutch, and has demolished a fort they began at Tinegapatan, saying
"he hath heard how they encroached upon other Prince's dominions,
and therefore should not live in his." Think it best to defer sending
a ship from Masulipatam to the Red Sea until further advice from
Surat, unless the expected trade for Tanjore should fail. Variations
in the price of gumlac. The coast will yearly vend good quantities
of coral, lead, and broad cloth. The Dutch sell great quantities of
cloves, nuts, and mace there at very great profit. Have great store
of Japan silver, which in vain they have tried to "put off," and has
much hindered their employments; unless they can do so at the coast
(of Coromandel) will be forced to send it for England. Great error
committed by Denton in the accounts received from Patani. Edward
Long daily expected from Siam. Have delivered Aug. Spaldinge
four signets [described] of deceased men, for their wives or friends, viz.,
Capt. Fitzherbert, Walter Bennett, Nicholas Ufflete, and another.
Augustine Spalding goes home in the Exchange, and Richard Welden,
late chief in Banda, in the Elizabeth. When he went to Amboyna
he "found our people executed your business in a confusion and the
English Company much indebted; he received certain goods from
the Dutch which he sold and paid the said debts, and brought all
our people from thence except two men, to lie in our house until
further order, affirming that he had left order with Henry Sill, in
Amboyna, to accept of no goods or housing from the Dutch Governor,
seeing he had seized upon the said goods, and suffered them to be
spoiled and part embezzled, while they were in the Netherlanders'
hands, in the time that our people were attacked and murdered.
Upon which advice, we have made the Dutch debtor in Amboyna,
accounts for the said goods and money, which we found wanting to
balance the dead men's several accounts, all amount to 30,000 ryals.
but contrary to the advice of Mr. Welden we have since received
letters from Henry Sill imparting that according to the order left
him by Mr. Welden he hath received part of the goods from the
Governor, which were in so ill condition that by his report they will
not yield one fourth part of the aforementioned sum." Blame Welden
for leaving such an order with Sill and reporting to them the contrary,
but it seems Welden chose rather to please them with an untruth
than to report he had agreed to receive back said goods. Have,
however, brought the valuation of said goods and wants upon
the account of the Netherlands Company and will protest against
them for the same, "for if the persons had lived they must
have made good the wants in their accounts, and if the goods be
spoiled in the Dutch Company's hands by them violently seized
upon, we see no reason but that they ought to make good the loss of
them unto your accounts." Send herewith particulars of said
goods, and what Welden and Beamont received back, as also what
debts were lost by the Pooloroonese, put to death by the Dutch in
Banda. The Dutch General offers to make good said debts of
Pooloroon if we can prove them, but he knows it is the custom to
take their word only; the particulars will not content the Dutch,
so are referred to England. Great wants in the accounts of the
factors murdered at Amboyna, which the Dutch utterly deny to
have received; by whom such wants are to be made good must be
decided in Europe. Have charged upon Welden's account 22 barrels
of powder and 3,000 lbs. of shot by him wastefully spent at a feast in
Banda,—the powder at 30 ryals per barrel, the shot at five ryals per
cent. Have granted Matthew Duke, employed at Masulipatam, leave
to return, his time being expired. Commendations of Michael Holman,
employed in a prime place in the Moluccas, and of George Robinson,
principal at Acheen since the death of Daniel Wright; that tyrannical King forced him to go, because he would not continue the
prejudicial custom of giving presents, begun by Nicolls. John
Beamont was employed chief in Looho [Lugho]; he was seized by
the Dutch, when weak with sickness in Amboyna, and by them
tortured and condemned; refer to his examination with the rest
taken in Batavia concerning that butcherly execution of Amboyna.
He was condemned by the Dutch, but again reprieved and sent
here, and though the innocency of him and the rest be apparent,
yet for order sake, have ordered him home in the nature of a prisoner,
the better to prove his innocency. John Perry, purser of the
Sampson, and second merchant in the Moluccas, and Malachi Martin,
purser in this factory of Batavia, worthy of future employment.
John Powle, George Sherricke, William Webber, and Ephraim
Ramsey have been employed as assistants in Amboyna; neither
their sufficiency nor good carriage deserve commendation. Edward
Collins was an assistant in Amboyna; has run much out of cash, and
deceived several men of good sums of money. The Company should
give no future employment to such untrusty unthrifts; he was also
condemned to die, and by drawing lots saved his life. Can no way
commend the diligence or sufficiency of Thomas Daukes and
Zachary Downman, who have been assistants at Banda. "Thus
much we thought good to insert concerning the factors sent home."
List sent of what factors remain, and how employed; most of those
from the dissolved factories to go for England by the next. Concerning invoices of lead and iron sent by [Rich.] Cocks and the
factors of Japan; John Neeve, purser of the Moon, and Robert Turberville, purser of the Elizabeth, to give account. The general disorder
in the pursers' accounts will require great circumspection. Will
briefly touch the chiefest points wherein those of the Netherlanders'
Company have wronged your trade and the persons of your servants,
which are particularly registered in the book of the Council of
Defence. First, how often and earnestly they have urged the
Dutch to open the trade of Bantam, and how obstinately the Dutch
have opposed the same, yet they themselves receive the Javas in
the night aboard their ships, and buy pepper of them; the inconveniences that arise thereby; are persuaded that the Netherlanders'
want of capital is one cause of their obstinate denial of trade, but
especially they fear that free trade with Bantam will ruin or much
decay their new erected sovereignity of Batavia; so have no hope
of that trade without express order from Europe, except upon great
disadvantage; for it is the only aim of the Dutch to establish their
kingdom of Batavia, and draw the customs to themselves. Have
protested to the General that they ought not to contribute to the
siege of Bantam. Cannot conceive why they should contribute
such an excessive sum towards the first year's charge, for it is most
false that the Dutch kept any praus before Bantam, as they pretend;
the most part of that time, "we kept ships there as well as they;"
and most part of the Dutch ships were utterly decayed and unserviceable for any voyage. Secondly, the intollerable exactions
and bloody executions committed by the Dutch in the Moluccas,
Amboyna, and Banda, which have justly constrained us to give over
that trade until further order from Europe. The Dutch exactions
are more than one half of the charge of the garrisons and fortifications and the gifts. Exploits of the Governor's, charges of his table,
and vain expenses of powder, amount to far more than the necessary
charge, but can get no allowance from the General. The Dutch
General will give way to no reason; so send the original accounts
of the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda. By paying their soldiers,
mardikers, &c. in cloth and victuals, our goods lie rotting on our
hands, the market being glutted by the soldiers. Our third part
paid in money will pay the total charge; so the best agreement to
make with the Dutch is to receive our third part of all the spices
there. The gains of the Dutch in those parts amount to more than
300,000 guilders per annum; the charge they now bring to account
is intolerable, and will eat out all the profits of that trade. Another
benefit the Dutch have to themselves is from customs and excise.
Their pride and insolency is grown to such a height that "we can
no longer live under their subjection." Long since advised the great
danger their persons were in from Dutch tyranny; for when the
Bandanese were executed in Batavia for pretended treason, the Dutch
General caused them in the extremity of their torment to declare
whether the English were not conspirators with them; and the like the
Governor of Banda did by the Pooloroonese executed there. If the extremity of torment had forced confession from them, as the Dutch it
should seem desired, we had undoubtedly suffered the like torments
and cruel death that our people did lately at Amboyna, the manner
whereof we will briefly relate:—Having given order to our people
to come from the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda on the Dutch
ships, the Governor of Amboyna caused a certain Japon to be taken
upon suspicion, and caused him to be tortured, thereby to confess of
several others of his nation (sic) to be accessory of treason and taking
the fort of Amboyna, and afterwards by extremity of torment forced
him with nine others to accuse the English to be conspirators with
them; whereupon Capt. Towerson and all the rest of the English
thereabouts were apprehended and laid in irons, and after most
inhuman tortures, were forced to confess what the tormentors
pleased, and Towerson and nine were executed. "It is worth the
noting that the Japons lying in irons as our people passed by and
were carried to be tormented, they railed upon them, demanding
when they spoke with the English at any time, so that they made
the Japons believe our people had accused them; but when the
Japons saw our people were tortured, and afterwards led to execution, as well as themselves, they then exclaimed against the Dutch
tyranny, and both English and Japons look upon their death to be
guiltless. The impossibility of performing such an action with
20 men is sufficient to clear them of this supposed treason. Besides
several letters written by Capt. Towerson a little before his attachment show that he bare a good affection for the Dutch, and if he
had found himself guilty of any such crime he might have fled,
being eight days at liberty after the Japons were apprehended.
With the examination there goes a psalter of Mr. Colston's, wherein is
written in two several places he takes it upon his salvation he died
innocent, and a bill made by Capt. Towerson declares as much."
Think the Amboyna Governor would not have put this "hellish
project" in execution without order from Coen, who reported "that
our people had been exceeding insolent in those parts, and it was a
shame for the Governor to suffer it." It was the Dutch policy to
make known to the inhabitants how basely they esteemed our
nation, those people having always had the English in respect, and
honoring the Dutch more for fear of their power than love for them.
Refer to the Company's wisdom whether those exactions and bloody
executions be not sufficient motives to remove the remainder of our
people until further order; for who would live under such cannibals,
that with tortured confessions can have colour to execute any one
under them that shall oppose their unjust proceedings. Not long
since an Englishman "falling at some words" with a Dutch soldier,
with the help of another was thrown into the river and drowned;
but the Dutch were cleared, and nothing was done to them. Thirdly,
the trade of China, for which the [fleets of] defence were chiefly
erected, is wholly appropriated to the Dutch. The demand to settle
the China trade upon Pulo Condor and the Liguros, according to
the contract, was received with a frivolous answer. Fourthly, the
Company may perceive by the faithless proceedings of Admiral
Dedell how much they are wronged by joining in defence with such
perfidious people. The Dutch imagine to have a great matter
against us for leaving the common defence; motives are described
"more than sufficient to give over those hostile and offensive
exploits." Have likewise given over Pulicat, seeing the trade thereof
depends wholly upon the sales of the Moluccas, Amboyna, and
Banda. Hold it good to refuse Pulicat, for the goods of the Niack's
country far exceed Pulicat in colours, goodness, and cheapness, without paying such a costly garrison. Want rather time than matter
to relate the continual wrongs of the Dutch. More particulars; at
Siam the Dutch pursuaded the great men to put Edward Long to
death. Besides the goods seized upon in Amboyna and the debts
lost by their (the Dutch) occasion in Banda, have paid them in the
Moluccas and Amboyna 36,963¾ ryals more than the first year's
charges; for which the Dutch offer them 1,434 lbs. cloves, 23,374 lbs.
nuts, and 7,287 lbs. mace, Holland weight. This proved a bad year
for cloves, so think the Company may get spices better cheap in
England than the Dutch deliver here. Money due to the late Wm.
Reeks. On John Ferrar's request to the late President to further a
collection for a free school in Virginia, a collection was made both
on shore and aboard the ships, and is entered in the purser's accounts.
Wm. Morgan, chief mate of the Elizabeth, preferred master. Edward
Grant—Half a page torn away. [Thirty-one pages, closely written.
O.C., Vol. X., No. 1130.] |
| Dec. 15. |
369. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Request of
Mr. Tyler to take out in cloves what he had underwritten for in
pepper, calicoes, &c., but the Court made answer they could not
do it. The diet for the committees when they come aboard
the ships in harbour to be limited. Offer of Abraham Chamberlain
on commission from some Dutchmen, of 21s. per lb. for the whole
parcel of the Company's silk; the Court gave no ear to that motion,
and referred his own request for 10 or 12 bales to the committees of
the warehouse. Ordered that the time "to consider" the estates of
deceased persons, formerly set at six months, be reduced to four
months, when if there appear no just impediment, will be paid what
shall appear due. Thomas Eyans to be one of the four auditors in
the place of Nicholas Cranmer, who does not accept of his election.
Mr. Hopkins being content to serve cloths to the Company and take
payment in indigo and silk, Alderman Ducy is entreated to assist
the committees in viewing them. Doubts whether cloths of winter's
dressing will serve, and care to be taken that they be not sappy but
clean cloths. Letter from Thompson, a factor in the Moluccas, for
some Devonshire kerseys; also a motion to send 300 or 400 pair of
stockings to Surat, but nothing at present resolved. [Two pages
and a half. Court Minute Book, VI., pp., 308–310.] |
Dec. 15.
Batavia. |
370. John Goninge to the Company. Will briefly relate the
estate of the Moluccas during his abode there. Eight castles and
forts possessed by the Dutch; eight also possessed by the Spaniards;
Malaya on Ternate their chief seat; where situated. Four forts
dissolved by the Dutch since our joint trade. The King of Ternate
is allied with the Dutch, and the King of Tidore with the Spaniards.
The Dutch, finding themselves in quiet possession of Amboyna and
Banda, which yield spices enough to furnish all Christendom, have
resolved only to hold defensive war with the Spaniards. The Ternateans holding it no reason that they should war with their
neighbours and kindred, the Tidoreses, to their own disquiet and
hindrance of commerce for content of the Dutch, made a truce with
them in 1621, who now sell spices to the Spaniards at a dearer rate
than they can to the Dutch. The blacks receiving many discontents
from the Dutch have not cared to pluck their cloves as in foretimes,
having by peace found other means to maintain themselves. Since
the truce he has always found the blacks but indifferent friends to
the Dutch, because of their cruelty to their allies in Banda, and encroaching upon the King of Ternate's possessions, and desire to hold
the Spaniards and Hollanders in equal balance. The Dutch hold
only a defensive war in that quarter, and care not to drive out the
Spaniards, though they could; that they may keep the blacks in
better awe, who equally fear either nation that should get the upper
hand. Arrived at Batavia on 10th Oct. last in a Dutch ship from
the Moluccas, where he dissolved seven fruitless factories, and
brought all the English away with him, except two or three persons
left according to order. How the Dutch have abused them in all
points the Company will understand from the general letters, &c.
It is too late now to wish their worships had at first only made a
mere contract of peace with the Dutch, and not joined with them in
matters of defence, and in consent to force Bantam, through which,
and their dishonest practices, "the consequences have been your
more disprofit than the losses sustained by the former hostility."
But it is not too late to wish to follow their own affairs without
leave of the Dutch. "The bloody massacre of your poor innocent servants at Amboyna, committed by the Dutch, hath strooken as well fear
as grief into us, finding no security of our persons and your worships'
means under their yoke." All hope their worships will prosecute
that business in such earnest manner as the Dutch shall have small
cause to rejoice in such villanies. Desires that two thirds of his
salary may still be paid to Nicholas Crispe for his use. Endorsed,
"Received by the Exchange." [Three pages. O.C., Vol. X., No.
1131.] |
Dec. 15.
Batavia,
aboard the
Hart. |
371. Capt. John Bickell to the East India Company. Arrived
safely at the Cape 29th May and left a letter to give their worships
to understand of all ships passed for England; viz., the London,
Jonas, and Lion from Surat and Persia, and from Batavia the Lesser
James, all of which, with the Palsgrave, he hopes have arrived in
England. Arrived at Batavia the 3rd August, being five months and
six days on their passage from the Lizard. Pipe staves very needful.
Pitch and tar precious. Could find work for more carpenters; many
die here. The Hart has lost 22 men. [One page. O.C., Vol. X.,
No. 1132.] |
Dec. 16.
[Surat],
aboard the Blessing. |
372. John Hall to the East India Company. Set sail for
Gombroon on 6 Dec. [1622] with the Blessing, Whale, Dolphin, and
Reformation. By the 18th Jan. had got off all their goods, being
800 bales of silk. The Persian sent his chief noble and solicited
them to go to Muscat, but was put off with fair words. Set sail
from Ormuz on 26 Jan. "with a very storm of wind and dirt and
rain." Sold the small ship, "which we found to be a very bauble,
to the 'Caunn,' being very desirous of her," for 400 demaunds,
(1,330l.), 1,000l. more than she was worth. Arrived at Swally bar
Feb. 11, and the next day the President and Council came aboard
and willed him to go for Dabul with the Blessing and Reformation,
the latter to touch at Choul. Brought the Blessing to anchor in the
road of Dabul, where they had very good, refreshing, and kind
usage, and Robert Hutchinson went ashore every day. For having
beaten two Malabars from the coast, "the people did like marvellous
well of our nation." Account of the taking of two frigates which
lay afore the custom house, supposed to be bound for Mocha, very
rich. He told the Dabulers "they knew well in what manner they
had robbed us," and that our coming was for satisfaction. Had them
both off in less than half an hour, but at the entrance they let fly
small shot and arrows so thick that they could hardly walk upon
the deck. They let fly into the town and at the castle almost 1,000
great shot, all that night and the next day, battering the town;
their loss in drowned and slain was 20 men, including Richard
Wedmore, "a proper young man." Set sail with the two frigates,
and came to anchor in Swally road 23rd March, and the 31st
were despatched for Mocha, where they arrived the 24th May,
and found the Dolphin. Having commission from the President and
Council to seize all junks, not one escaped: they took "one belonging to Choul unto the Deckeneis (Deccan) country, wherein was
found 40,000 ryals, besides goods also," "the great Shawhee," "the
Conjava," and one belonging to Gogo. Met off Damoan two Dutch
ships in the night, and "making account they were Portugals, I let
fly five or six pieces at them before I could get them to anchor."
Anchored in Swally road on 5 Oct. with eight junks, where they
found the William, Capt. Christopher Brown, and "gave them (the
Surat people) to understand of our demands," and now "our merchants are better used than ever they were, but how long it will
last I know not." The Blessing and William bound for Gombroon,
and the Reformation for the southwards. Hopes at their return to
lade for England, with the William, but if they cannot get clear of
the coast by the last of March they must winter there. Endorsed,
"John Hall, Mr. (? Captain) of the Blessing." [Four pages. O.C.,
Vol. X., No. 1134.] |
Dec. 16.
Swalley Road,
aboard the
Blessing. |
373. Emmanuel Butta to the East India Company. Account of
"the passages and navigation" of the Blessing in company with the
Discovery and Reformation. Left the Lizard, in Cornwall, 3 April
1622, and anchored in Swally road 3rd Oct., and met there the London, Jonas, Whale, Dolphin, Lion, Rose, and four Flemings. The 24th
Oct. the Exchange, Anne, and Diamond came in; and the 22nd Nov.
the Exchange, Anne, and four Flemings set sail. Set sail on
6th Dec. with the Whale, Dolphin, Reformation, and Primrose for
Persia; and left the London, Jonas, and Lion bound for England,
the Discovery for Jacatra, the Diamond and Rose for the fleet of
defence, and two Flemings in the road. Arrived at Gombroon
30th Dec. and four factors came aboard, viz., Messrs. Dorrell (who
died before we came away), Barker, Benthall and Thompson; and
Rawson they left on shore. On Jan. 9, the Whale and Dolphin set
sail for Surat with 250 bales of silk, "we finding the coast to be
clear of Portugals." Sold the Primrose to the "Caunn" for 400 tomans,
every toman 3l. 6s. 4d. The Blessing and Reformation set sail with
570 bales of silk; and anchored at Swally on the 11th Feb. Five
Malabar junks taken, but let go, having passes from the fleet of
defence and from Mr. Saltbanke and Haines from Mocha. Account
of the taking of two frigates out of Dabul harbour and of the fighting
which "continued most part of the night and the fourth day we beat
down their 'barracathoes' and dismounted four pieces of ordnance
that played on us all night." Capt. (Hall) would needs go ashore
with 90 men to take the town, but was glad to run to the boats again
losing 19 men outright, slain and drowned. Took the two frigates
with them to Surat, where after taking the goods out of one, she was
set on fire. Mutiny on board the Blessing, forty of the men saying
they would not weigh anchor unless they had the goods of the
frigate aboard; so a council was called and some were punished and
the principal condemned but not put to death. Met "the Dolphin
who told us the unlooked-for news that great misfortune to the
Whale." Went back to Swally 24 March, "and so ended our Dabul
voyage, 1623." Account of their Mocha voyage where they arrived
24th May and found the Dolphin. Set sail for Surat Aug. 7th.
Gave chase to the Courtmamotos of Choul, took her monies and
goods out of her and dismissed her; other vessels taken. Heard of
Mr. Wedmore's death in Persia. "Stood up altogether" 4th Nov.
in the road of Swally, and on the 12th "our President and the
Governor firmed to the articles of peace between us, and the 17th
day they went all ashore, and so we ended our Red Sea voyage."
Are now bound for Persia. Endorsed, "Emanuell Butta mr of
the Blessing. Received by the Dolphin from Plymouth 30 July
1624." [Four pages and a half. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1135.] |
| Dec. 17. |
374. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Gratification to
Mr. Browne, lecturer of the parish of Great Saint Helen's (4l. as
last Christmas), for the pains he taketh in preaching at his appointed
times. Agreed by erection of hands that 53 chests of coral at
Leghorn, to be laden on board the London for London, be not insured.
Grievances of John Holloway about his stock. Concerning the accounts of Robert Smith, purser of the Jonas; he is thought to be honest,
but takes no right course to appear so. Remarks of Capt. Weddall
and Mr. Browne on the great sums disbursed for victuals; also in
reference to the surgeon's chests. Examination of Henry Wheatley,
purser in the former voyage, as to the money paid by passengers from
the Red Sea, whereof they were sometimes 80 or 100 at a time; also as
his sufficiency for master's mate in the Jonas. [Robert] Smith to
go purser. Concerning the complaints made by Powell's widow and
the rest, to the Privy Council, for their husbands' goods aboard the
ships taken by the Dutch; their Lordships having been truly informed
said, "that if those women did further trouble them they should be
whipped." The salaries of John Blunt, one of the clerks of the
warehouse, and of the Company's secretary are increased 30l. and
20l. respectively. [Three pages and a half. Court Minute Book, VI.,
pp. 313–316.] |
Dec. 17.
Aboard the Royal Exchange. |
375. John Beamont to Henry Sill in Amboyna. After his departure from Amboyna it pleased God to visit him with sickness
and lameness, and on his arrival at Batavia he was carried before
the General and Council of the Dutch, where he was fo[rced to al]ledge
the untruth again, for fear they would have tortured him. The
General told him they came as condemned men to die there, but in
regard of Speult's "gracious letters of me—he did pardon me"; but
the President would not be "beholding" to the General, but ordered
that we should be sent into England for justice, and that if we were
found there guilty by our laws we should have according to our
deserts, if not that all the rest were murdered, as he was of opinion
they were. The President sent to know of the General if Speult
had order from him and his council to put the King's subjects to
death (which was against the articles), but hears of no answer he
gave but "that Speult had authority from the Prince of Holland."
The matter is so bad, they do not love to hear of it, but there is a
God above, and no doubt he will revenge their bloody murders of
innocent persons. Is glad that now they are clear of "their Bata
via," where they lived in fear of some new trick the Dutch would
put upon them, for the President and Council "intend not to stay
long in their Batavia." If the old President had lived to have gone
for England, he would have followed our business closely, but makes
no doubt that the Company will "incend" the King, "with the
friends of the murdered, that our enemies may not glory in it as
they do." Has delivered the particulars of money and gold taken
from him at Amboyna by the Governor, which the President
demanded from the Dutch General, but he denies to pay, but doubts
not to recover it all in England. Requests he will pay any debts
he may receive to Mr. Cartwright. The Exchange and Elizabeth
set sail from Batavia on 15th Dec. "God send us well into our
native country." Augustine Spaldinge, himself, and [Michael] Holman, John Perry, Malachi Martin, George Sherricke, Ephraim Ramsey, [Matthew] Duke, and Munday in the Exchange, and Capts.
Welden and Adams, and Messrs. Morgan, George Robinson, [John]
Powle, William Webbe, Dawkes, John Chesterton, Harry Doleman,
and [George] Collins in the Elizabeth. Found in the road on coming
to Batavia the Exchange and Discovery; the Roebuck gone for
Macassar, the Ann for Jambi, and the Abigail for Tecoe with the
Diamond. Since have arrived the Hart from England with the
Coaster, the Unity, [Moo]n, and Elizabeth, with pepper from
Sumatra coast and Jambi, the Ruby from the coast, and the junk
Welcome from Macassar, with Mr. Staverton, who is gone to be
chief at Jambi. Hears from England that the Hollanders are compelled to pay the Company a great sum for injuries done aforetime,
that they are to have free trade at Bantam (but what has been
agreed upon at home the General and his Council will not agree to
here), and to have Pooloroon and half of Lantar. Have ill tidings
that the Whale, with a rich cargo from Persia and Surat, "sunk
right down in the sea 10 leagues off the road" of Surat, 36 men
drowned, and nothing saved of her goods, "by reason of a plank that
sprung in her." As yet no ships come from Surat, but this news
came overland to Masulipatam. Commends himself to Signor Garatt, "my comadre with her child," William Donn, George Calahira
and his wife, Robin Showmakar, old Mr. Johnson and his wife,
William Bell, and all the rest of our friends. If he can do him any
service in England, he may direct his letters to "Mr. John Buckock's,
Haberdasher's house, at the sign of the Hat with the Golden Hatband,
in Lombard Street, right over against the George." [Two pages.
Mutilated by damp. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1136.] |
| Dec. 19. |
376. Court Minutes of the East India Company. A course resolved
upon to remove John Lamperey, [Lemprier] late the Company's servant at Blackwall, who holds still the house there, and "doth not
avoid for any warning." Robert Smith, purser of the Jonas, to receive
wages due for his last voyage. Examination of William Waulker, the
Company's porter, charged with having rudely carried himself
towards Mr. Governor Hallidaie's wife, who for some service in her
garden had bestowed a piece of gold on him; he made his boast
that she had given it for informing against Mr. Hurte; but he
answered that he never spake any such words, and desired to justify
himself to his accuser's face. The secretary to look up what was
given in new year's gifts last year. The bonds entered into by
Messrs. Monnox and Roe with the Company for their employment
to be cancelled. Touching the will of John Challicombe, Nicholas,
his brother and executor, makes choice of Arthur Bray as his
curator or guardian (himself being under age), to receive what is
due to him. The will must first be proved and the curator allowed.
Nicholas Bix entertained as underfactor for seven years, at 30l. per
annum for the first two years, rising afterwards 10l. per year. The
distribution of money and victuals to the poor of Stepney not to be
left to the churchwardens, but the Court were contented they should
be present at the distribution if they pleased. [Four pages. Court
Minute Bk., VI., pp. 316–320.] |
Dec. 20.
Batavia. |
377. President Thomas Brockedon, Henry Hawley, and John
Gonninge to Harman Van Speult, Governor of Amboyna:—
To the Right Worshipful Harman Van Speult, Governor of
Amboyna.
The infallible signs of neighbourly respect between the realms of
England and the United Netherlands, being in nothing more conspicuous than in the late agreement of differences between his
Majesty of Great Britain and the high and mighty Lords States of
the United Netherlands in the year 1619, for the regulating the
subjects of both nations in these parts of India with equal place and
power by proceeding and successive turns monthly, doth seriously
enforce us to admiration how you, Harman Van Speult, Governor
of Amboyna, do presume and authorise not only to exact and extort
upon his Majesty's subjects of Great Britain, contrary to all that can
be intended by any of the said articles, but to imprison, torture, and
condemn, and bloodily to execute his Majesty's subjects, with confiscation of their goods, to the violating of that bond of amity and
unity in the said articles, and in contempt of those acts so sincerely
agreed between his Majesty of Great Britain and the Lords States
aforesaid.
Now forasmuch as, contrary to the said articles and in contempt
of both our Sovereigns, you have not only assumed the power of
magistracy, but proceeded against his Majesty's subjects by tormented confessions and without either voluntary accuser or probable
accusation, and thereto have added such tyrannical torments neither
usual nor tolerable amongst Christians.
We, the President and Council for the honourable Company of
England, are thereby sufficiently grounded solemnly to protest
against all your said presumptuous proceedings, and in particular
for imprisoning 18 of his Majesty's subjects, whereof 10 bloodily
executed, their own proper goods confiscated, and the goods of our
noble employers by the execution havocked and ruinated, the
majesty and renown of our gracious Sovereign in these parts with
disgrace dishonoured, the nation in general scandalised, and in particular the poor innocent released prisoners bereaved of all credit
and estimation. For which notorious wrongs, violence, and indignities, together with your former exactions, couched under the name
of necessary maintenance for forts and garrisons.
We, the President and Council aforesaid, do by these presents
make public your said oppressions, which is not only in and by
your own person to be answered and satisfied, but as you are substitute and have your power from superiors, so is it also intended
against your honourable employers, the Company of the United
Netherlands trading East India, or any else whom it shall or may
concern, from whom in general and particular we, in the name of
his Majesty of Great Britain and for our honourable employers, the
English East India Company, do and will expect satisfaction.
1. First, the breach of confederacy intended by the articles agreed
anno 1619.
2. For your barbarous and bloody execution of 10 of his Majesty's
subjects aud our honourable employers' factors and servants.
3. For reparation of credit for those poor eight innocents pardoned
and acquitted.
4. For the restoration of all their goods and estates, as well theirs
executed as theirs pardoned and acquitted.
5. For satisfaction of our honourable employers' goods and estate
in those parts by your own occasion havocked and ruinated even in
quantity and value, to be restored as they were rated and valued
by general consent of both Dutch and English, to be sold at Amboyna without defalcation of whatsoever since sold by Richard
Welden or Henry Sill, that had them from your hands after the
execution without our order or consent. Yet whatsoever the said
Richard Welden or Henry Sill have out of the said capital and
means (by you committed unto their ordering) paid and disbursed
for the use of our noble employers, that shall be defalked and
deducted out of the general estate of those parts. The rest we must
expect restorable at your hands and the hands of your noble
employers as aforesaid.
6. We expect repayment of all your former exactions passed
under the name of necessary maintenance for forts and garrisons.
7. We require repair for the dishonour unto his Majesty of Great
Britain and our noble employers for your preposterous dealings to
the disgrace of our nation in general.
8. And lastly, for our honorable employers' loss and trade in
those isles of Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda, for our loss of houses
and building there, and our abandoning of those parts, all which
being occasioned by your said intolerable exactions, usurpation of
authority over his Majesty's subjects of Great Britain, and this said
barbarous execution.
We will (as reason is we should) expect from you and your
honourable employers, the Netherlands Company aforenamed, reparation, satisfaction, and really in every part, redress of all our said
losses and disgraces, with such interests, damages, penalties, and
inconveniences as by our Christian laws for such wilful and presumptuous offences is and shall be found fitting.
For which purpose we, the President and Council for the honourable Company aforesaid, do make this act authentic by our joint
subscription, and send the same to Henry Sill, to be delivered
unto you, the said Governor Speult, that thereby both himself
and his noble employers and those whom it may concern may be
prepared for answers to each particular before our competent judges
in Europe or elsewhere.
Dated in Batavia,
the 20 December 1623,
stilo Angliæ.
Thomas Brockedon.
Henry Hawley
John Gonninge. |
|
[Two pages and a half. Mutilated by damp; the words destroyed
are supplied from the copy below. Endorsed, "* * * intratur."
O.C., Vol. X., No. 1137.] |
| Dec. 20. |
378. Copy of the preceding protest. Endorsed, "Received in
London, 29 May 1624, out of Holland, by the pinnace Hazewindt."
A copy was also inclosed in Sec. Conway's letter of 25th June 1624
to Carleton. [Eeast Indies, Vol. II., No. 71. |
