East Indies: July 1623

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, East Indies, China and Japan, Volume 4, 1622-1624. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1878.

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'East Indies: July 1623', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, East Indies, China and Japan, Volume 4, 1622-1624, (London, 1878) pp. 120-133. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/east-indies-china-japan/vol4/pp120-133 [accessed 18 March 2024]

July 1623

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."