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1614.
Nov. 2–4. |
785. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Thos. Whitley’s second year’s payment of 500l. to the joint stock. Part of Rich. Andrewes’s adventures set over to Edward Messelden. One Cradle and Mathew Porter named for master of the Expedition. Purchase of 8,000 or 9,000 elephants’ teeth. John Holmden entertained as a factor for seven years. Petitions of Bennet Jones and Thos. Cuerton for employment; also of Samuel Saltingston [Salstonstall] brought up under Sir Rich. Saltingston who he served seven years, since which time he has practised physic in Ireland and York, to be entertained as a factor at Bantam for seven years, and do his best in those arts of surgery and physic. Jeremy Sambrooke to be employed as a purser’s mate. Claus Derickson Bend, a Dutchman, who has been factor seven years in the East Indies, not to be employed. John Buckland entertained. Customs for the diamonds. Communications from the governor; a ship in the Thames about to sail to France to procure a commission from the French King and then proceed to the East Indies to trade, the Lord Admiral made stay of her, but the King was wrought to grant a licence for her to go, “which cannot but be a dishonour unto his admiral,” His Majesty’s promise upon the word of a king never to be drawn to do the like again. The King, well satisfied about sending an ambassador to the Indies, gave leave to confer with Sir Thos. Roe for that employment; and being very willing to have the commissions dispatched presently, entered into speech concerning the business of the Low Countries, and much distasted the wrongs done by the Dutch in the East Indies and Greenland, but supposed that by conference they should right themselves; by reason of his promise he wished that he might not be overtaken by time, beating much and often upon that point. The governor requested to conclude with Sir Thos. Roe; his instructions to be drawn out for approval. Desire of the States General to have a conference ; proposal of Sir Noel Caron to have the Dutch Commissioners come over again rather than nothing should be effected; opinions thereon; the governor to use his best means with Sir Noel to draw them over with a more ample commission than before. Wages of Hugh Frayne, deceased, one of the factors of the Trades Increase. |
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Nov. 4.—Adventures of Henry Bridgeman to be transferred to his widow and executrix, Susan Bridgeman. Petition of Thos. Sprake for employment referred. Robt. Coxe’s second payment to the joint stock. Suits of Thos. Hall, Thos. Cuerton, and Thos. Pibourne for employment. Capt. Gyles desirous to enter the Company’s service. Information that Capt. Newport will not go the voyage under 240l. a year ; “to let him rest awhile and to advise and bethink himself for some short time.” News from Plymouth that the captain attempted to go forth, but was forced in again. Nathaniel Feild unfit for employment. Thos. Whitley to be entertained as a factor. Proposal of Capt Best to give orders to make prize of the Malabars, who are tributary to the Portugals, but the Company, having hitherto proceeded peaceably, unless where they have been provoked, held it fit not to begin any quarrels. Anthony Wallis, a youth, who kept Capt. Best’s accounts in his last voyage, to be entertained. Lawrence Waldoe and Robert Gippes referred. The grocers’ business ended. Wm, Cradle provisionally entertained master of the Expedition. The Expectation, when launched, to be called theLion, to consort with the Dragon. 800l of Wm. Burrell’s adventurein the joint stock to be passed over to Mrs. Thomasine Owfeild.Diego Fernando, a Muscovite, having attained unto good under–standing by his diligence in the Indies, to be employed as an inferiorfactor for seven years. [Five pages and three quarters. CourtBk., III., 257–262.] |
Nov 7.
Tecoe. |
786. A true copy of all the writings sent home to the honourableCompany by Wm. Nicolls; it includes a copy of the King ofAcheen’s letter to His Majesty in English, the last will andtestament of Robt. Carter, and Mr. Jackson’s account, who died inAcheen. Witnessed by Thos. Brockedon and Thos. Mill. [Half apage. O. C., Vol. II., No. 176.] |
| Nov. 8. |
787. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Debateon Capt. Keeling’s motion to take his wife with him on thevoyage. Some approved of the motion as very fitting for thequiet of his mind and the good of his soul, and as a cursebefalleth those that keep man and wife asunder. One Ward, akinsman of Judge Popham’s, neither a merchant nor mariner, refusedemployment. Capt. Gyles not fit for the Company’s service. Thos.Bonner to be master’s mate. Money owing for timber. LawrenceWaldoe unfit for their service. Robt. Gippes referred. The Kingindignant that his merchants are stayed at Dieppe, and will berevenged upon the governor there; those having complaints againstthe French to renew them, seeing His Majesty will be so ready tohear them; a fit time to proceed in the Union. Robt Phelippsentertained a factor. John Cooper referred. Thos. Hall, Thos.Nicholls, George Pearch, and Stephen Newfould refused. Jas.Freeman, a young man who has lately been in Greenland, to betrained in the art of navigation. Joshua Bainbridge appointedpurser in the Expedition. John West referred. Capt. Newport to bespoken with, Capt. Argoll having become a suitor for employment.[Two pages and a half. Court Bk., III., 263–265. |
| [Nov. 8.] |
788. Wm. Edwardes to the East India Company. His last wasfrom Saldanha. Ships lately touched there. Only six men diedin the four ships between England and the Cape, three by sicknessand three by accident. Aloes purchased of the King of Socotra.The Hector towed a Surat junk of 100 tons, with 100 men, whichthey met in distress, and in fear of being taken by the Portugals;it was taken in very thankful part by the people of these parts.Wars between the Mogore and the Portugals. Letter sent toAldworthe at Surat. Portugals from two frigates visit the general.Great encouragement from Aldworthe at Swally for their welcomeand trade, though there were many delays in the discharge of theirgoods through the imbecility of Mocrob Chan, viceroy of Surat,“whose disposition savours more of child than man;” his andeavoursto make the English fight the Portugals and defend Surat. Aldworthe’s answers to the articles concerning Paul Canninge and the need of a resident in Agra. Goods landed. Hopes of the people to remove Mocrob Chan. Places besieged by the Mogore. Great means used by the Portugals for reconciliation, but the Mogore answers he will have all his country under his own subjection and will be no more subject to them as heretofore. No Portugals suffered to remain, except two Jesuits, who are imprisoned. Offer of the Portugals of restitution, if the Mogore would deliver the English there into their hands, which the Mogore refused to do. Great plenty of all sorts of goods. |
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Continued.
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| Ahmedabad. |
Dec. 20.—Delays caused by Mocrob Chan; he is a great friend to the Portugals, but there is good hope to have him displaced. Desire of the Mogore to have the first sight of his presents; but Mocrob Chan forcibly saw them, so they must be delivered all at once. Goods on which there is profit. Hopes to relade the Hector and Solomon. Has been appointed in council to set forward to the king’s court at Ajmere. Price of Indigo ; supposes it will be more profitable than any other commodity from those parts. Trifles and toys of small value best for presents; “an English coach and coachman to bring their horses to that labour;” water spaniels of the largest size and bloodhounds would be very acceptable to the king. All the mastiffs they took over are dead but one. Prices of commodities; raw Persian silk worth as much as in England. 36,000 ryals taken to Ahmedabad at great risk, by reason of the multiplicity of robbers in great troops; the ryal worth more at Ahmedabad than at Surat. Aldworthe’s accounts. Good stock should be left at Surat for buying indigo, the country people being constrained to sell to engrossers at very low prices for want of money. Information of trade to be had in Persia, given by Rich. Steele, who went in pursuit of Jo. Midnall, who fled from Turkey with money belonging to [Nich.] Leat and Company. Jasques, a port town near Ormus ; description and distance from Ispahan, &c. Employment of Steele and John Crouther to discover “this hoped–for trade” in Persia. Refusal of Steele to be employed by the Dutch at Masulipatam. But little sale for cloth at Surat, being rarely used except for covering saddles. Has been appointed by the council of merchants resident at Agra, or at the court of the great Mogore. Means used by the Portugals to compound a peace with the Mogore, but he will by no means hear of it, “forewarning all men any more to solicit that cause.” The Portugal fathers have written to Spain for toleration to the English for trade; their frigates burn and destroy all they can, and have burnt the greatest part of Goga. Three galleons lately arrived at Goa, but the English have little fear of them, “for their last conflict is not yet forgotten, but is very famous in all these parts. Death of Nich. Emsworth and Timothy Wood. Doubts not but the Hector and Solomon will return from hence laden for England. [Seven pages. Indorsed, “By the Hope Rd 2 Decemb. 1615.” O.C., Vol. II., No. 177.] |
| Nov. 9–14. |
789. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Lord Mnotgomery’a payments. One hundred marks to be given to Capt. Castleton for relieving the Thomas at sea and preserving the ship out of the hands of certain Newfoundland men ; debate upon engaging him in the Company’s service; report of his intent to proceed in some voyage to the East Indies to the Company’s hurt. Payment of the second year’s adventure to the joint stock. Wm. Partridge and John West refused. Christopher Pine appointed steward’s mate in the Dragon. George Barklie referred. Nicholas Banggam to be entertained. Martin Cheshire to be steward in the Peppercorn, Robt. Abell steward’s mate in the Dragon, and John Mapledore steward of the Lion. Doctor Gulston allowed to adventure 400l. in the joint stock for the Lord of Canterbury’s sake. Motion in behalf of Geo. Smyth, a druggist. Money to be taken up at interest to increase the joint stock; the charges of this year’s shipping will amount to a matter of 80,000l. or thereabouts. No adventurer indebted to the Company to take out the whole amount of his dividends. Committee to confer with Mr. Jones about buying his house at Blackwall. The King of Sumatra having desired one of His Majesty’s subjects for a wife with sundry proffers of privileges to the issue, a gentleman of honorable parentage proposes his daughter, of most excellent parts for music, her needle and good discourse, as also very beautiful and personable. The kingdoms of Sumatra and Taprobane very eminent for antiquity amongst historiographers and known to be very powerful in shipping; debate whether it be beneficial to the Company, referred for consideration. Mr. Freeman’s offer to sell the Great Defence to the Company or to fit her out for an East India voyage to fetch home goods on freight. |
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Nov. 11.—Ephraim Dixon appointed a factor. One hundred marks to be given to Capt. Castleton for the good of his wife and children, but not to employ his services abroad in any nature whatsoever. Stephen Richard, a druggist, referred; petition of Wm. Kendall, a grocer, who had been 15 months at sea and was never sick. Lawrence Waldoe referred. Concerning Capt. Newport’s entertainment; finally agreed with at 10l. per month. Because the Lion is not built so strongly as is wished, she is to return directly from Surat and Capt. Newport to be appointed her captain, and Capt. Harris captain of the Peppercorn. Reported arrival of Capt. Saris in the Downs, instructions for him to hasten up overland according to former agreement. Desire of John Goodings, a youth of 13 or 14 knowing the Dutch and French tongues, to go to Surat to learn the language. Payment of Robert Youart’s wages. John Leechland to be purser’s mate in the Expedition in place of John Buckland dismissed. Thos. Rastell, John Cooper, and Rich. Whitlocke referred. Nicholas Banggam to be a factor. Thos. Hamor and Leonard Crosse’s petition for exployment. About preparing Sir Thos. Roe’s commission and instructions; 500 marks to be paid to furnish him forth to sea, and 500 marks imprest upon his salary, he having a desire to satisfy some debts. Wm. Carmychell, a Scotchman, who lived 14 or 15 years in the East Indies in the Dutch service, being one that formerly dissuaded the attempt of trade at Surat, and suspected for his religion, not to be employed. The King’s promise to send over commissioners again urged by Sir Noel Caron; speech of Sir Thos. Smythe with the Lord Chancellor and Lord Treasurer who are willing to be a means to put off any being sent; the governor and Sir Noel to be present at a meeting of the Privy Council on Monday; proposal of the governor to acquaint those two lords how far the business concerns the Company and to acknowledge their lordships’ favours. Committee appointed to accompany the governor. |
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Nov. 12.—D. Lister marrying Ann Walthall, widow, who paid for her freedom, desires to have the adventures written in his own name; opinion that the freedom of a woman cannot make a man free; being a case without precedent resolved to let them agree amongst themselves. Gratifications to the clerk and sexton of the parish where the Company have ordered a lecture to be read every Friday; also to Alex. Jeames, a mariner under Sir H. Middleton. Debate on the renewal of Capt. Keeling’s suit for leave to take his wife with him on the voyage, the Company “rather inclining to grant her leave to go than to keep them asunder.” Arrival of Capt. Saris, having left the Clove at Plymouth; his opinion of hopes of trade at Japan, whatever is sold there is for current payment in silver ; the voyage to be made thither in 20 days and so back again, taking the opportunity of the monsoon. Efforts of the Dutch to hinder the English in their proceedings. At Tahanye in the Moluccas a trade may be beaten for cloves. Doings of the factors at Bantam ; no danger to be apprehended from the Spaniards at Bantam or elsewhere, “if men be provident” Mr. Palmer, Lord Montgomery’s steward, to be permitted to adventure 100l. in the joint stock. Mr. Russell’s bills of exchange accepted. |
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Nov. 14.—Concerning the return of the committee from the Downs, Capt. Saris having come to town. A journal of Mr. Pemberton’s, said to be in a chest, and which may be of especial use to the Company, to be looked after. Letter from Dr. Paiton, certifying the desertion of several from the ship. Great complaints of the behaviour of the factors residing in the Indies, especially of Ball and Langley; good report of Jourdain’s honesty ; resolution to draw away by degrees the great stock remaining there, supposing there would not be any occasion to send more stock to Bantam or any of those parts for a long time. Debate upon sending commodities to Japan; the Flemings have bestowed 1,500l. sterling at least upon a house there and have reaped great gain; a factory being already there, and the country rich and populous, resolved to send one of the pinnaces with commodities fitting that place, although Capt. Downton be gone thither; the goods to be provided on Capt. Saris’s advice. The other pinnace to go to Cochin China. Christopher Barre refused. [Ten pages. Court Bk., III., 265–275.] |
Nov. 15.
Ajmere. |
790. Thos. Keridge to [Thos. Aldworthe and Wm. Biddulph at Surat]. Has urged upon the king the restitution of Midnall’s goods, but it will be some time before the money will be paid, the goods having been disposed of to the king’s use. The people rejoice at the arrival of the English ships, hoping it will be a means of bringing the Portugals to a better conclusion, which the king longs for. Complaints against the general for attributing to himself all the good services done in settling a factory, &c. Is pleased to hear of the appointment of Wm. Edwardes as lieger, “which will be needful here among this inconstant people.” The presents he brings will be liked well by the king, and esteemed the more if not previously seen by any one. The king has granted his firman for kind usage of the English, free trade and so forth. All business concerning trade referred to the Mocrob Chan, therefore all good means must be used to give him content. Sale and purchase of commodities. The broker Jado denies the receipts of the Frenchman; refers him to Nich. Withington. The Dutchman not returned from ’the Princes Lasker.” Letters for England. Commends his duty to the General, Capt. Downton, Wm. Edwardes, and [Edw.] Dodsworth. Recommends the bearer as a foot post. [Two pages. Indorsed, “Copy of Thos. Keridge his letter to Mr. Aldworthe and Wm. Biddulph, sent from Surat by Mr. Thos. Elkington to Nich. Downton in Swally road.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 178.] |
| Nov. 15. |
791. Court Minutes of the East India Company. A jewel with portraits of the King, Queen, and Prince on one side, offered to the Company for sale, refused. Committee to finish Sir Thos. Roe’s instructions, by which Mr. Secretary may frame the King’s commission. Commissions for the pinnaces and for Capt. Keeling to be finished. No factors to be sent home until Capt. Keeling’s arrival. Petition of John Newman for employment. Debate on a letter received from the factors at Japan of 1st Dec. 1613, desiring more wages ; limited power to Capt. Keeling to encourage and reward those worthy, but none to be allowed more than a third more of their salary. Arguments on Capt. Keeling’s wish to take his wife with him, and resolution to refer him to the generality for their consent. Letter read from Sir Thos. Roe persuading the Company to buy a ship of Sir Henry Thynne’s, to stop the scandal abroad that gentlemen cannot pretend a voyage to any place but must reader an account to the East India Company, assuring them that Sir Henry has a project in hand by which he will free the ship, and remarking on the mischief he may do the Company if he should persuade some other prince to attempt the voyage. Opinion of the ship’s capabilities for the Company’s use. Debate on the Company’s power to take any English ships abroad attempting to trade in the East Indies; the governor recommends it to be kept secret at present. Comments on John Cooper, entertained as a factor. Suit of Thos. Hamor, for employment, refused. [Two pages and three quarters. Court Bk., III., 276–278.] |
Nov. 16.
Masulipatam. |
792. Pieter Willems Floriss and Geo. Chaunceye to Thos. Aldworthe at Surat. Hope to be ready to sail about 1st Dec. for England, first touching at Bantam. Concerning cotton yarn, calicoes, and indigo. Behaviour of two native servants. Have nothing more to sell or buy. The Visetedor, general for the Dutch, come to visit these coasts. General news from Europe ; death of Prince Henry ; marriage of the Princess Elizabeth ; Denmark and Sweden united ; wars of Muscovy and Poland; truce between Spain and the Low Countries. No English ships at Bantam ; the James gone for Siam and Patani, the Osiander for Priaman, where the English are in great danger, the King of Acheen being very angry with them for settling a factory at Priaman without his leave. An English ship sent to succour the Trades Increase met by a Dutch ship. War continues in the Moluccas between the Spaniards and Dutch; and although the Dutch have the strongest part, they cannot beat out the Spaniards. No news of the Darling, which left Bantam almost a year ago for Masulipatam. Trade in the Moluccas and Bantam very bad, cloths in no request, opium worth almost nothing. In case of death Floriss begs Aldworthe not to listen to any idle reports of him, “because a man, after he is dead, can have no better nor greater treasure than a good name.” [Three pages. O. C., Vol. II., No. 180.] |
Nov. 16.
Bantam. |
793. Charges against Richard Cobb, a factor at Bantam, by John Jourdain, the president, with the opinion of the several factors, that he is unfit to be employed in the Company’s service. Decision of the president to send him home in the first ship, and in the meantime to exclude him from the council of merchants. [Five pages O. C., Vol. II., No. 179.] |
| Nov. 16–18. |
794. Court Minutes of the East India Company. About settling a conclusion with Sir Thos. Roe concerning the terms of his entertainment ; to be allowed as ambassador to the Grand Magore a salary of 500l. a year ; to have apparel, 500 marks to furnish him forth to sea, 500 marks as imprest upon his salary, and half his salary to be put yearly in the joint stock for his benefit; his allowance increased to 600l. per annum ; inconvenience of making an allowance for his expenses of diet; an account to be kept by him, and of whatever he receives from the Grand Magore; 100l. a year for his servants, to be all approved by the Company, besides a preacher and surgeon at the Company’s charge; 30l. for liveries for his servants at 3l. each, and 100l. lent to buy plate for his table He promises to hinder all interlopers that presume to venture within the Company’s liberties; desires orders may be given to the factors not to lend him money, “although he should earnestly entreat it,” assuring them that he aims as much at gaining and preserving his honor as the purchase of gain; promises not to permit Sir Thos. Smythe to suffer any disgrace by being the motioner for his employment; discussion upon the mode of proceeding if they should be shut out of the Grand Magore’s country contrary to expectation. These covenants entered in a book where the commissions be. |
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Nov. 18.—Request of Capt. Towerson to be freed from a debt to Don Lewis, a Portugal. Committee appointed to overthrow a grant to John Grent and Thos. Ailsburye to survey all shipping in the land and to call before them the owners and masters to render an account of the ports they are bound for, and the number of men they carry forth and bring back, “being too great wrongs to the subjects under fair pretexts.” No news received at Sandwich of the Clove’s arrival, but sundry wrecks of Flemings. Proposal to insert in Capt. Keeling’s commission, authority to send home such unnecessary persons as he shall find in any place; factors to have less wages for the first two years of their service. A factory to be settled at Sumatra by Capt. Keeling. Petitions of Richard Baker and several others for employment either referred or refused. Robert Gippes to be entertained. Sixteen factors to be employed with these ships. A son of Serjeant Hutton’s to go the voyage with Capt. Harris; two sons of Serj. Finch refused. Ordnance. Petition of John Martyn, anchor smith at Deptford. Mr. Leate to provide certain furs intended to be sent to Japan for a trial. [Four pages and a quarter. Court Bk., III., 279–283.] |
| Nov. 20. |
795. Capt. Nich. Downton to Sir Thos. Smythe. Complains of others being joined in authority with him, “sharing of the authority of a commander among divers, doth much increase pride, cause divisions, and greatly hinder the common business.” Expects this voyage will fully wear him out; his love to government in foreign journeys, and opinion that it should rest principally upon one man. Good writing wanting in the factors, and allowance for their private provisions. Henry Smith and Roger Prowde bound to Agra with Wm. Edwardes. Has been long pestered with unkind crosses by Mocrob Chan, but hopes the presents taken by Edwardes to the king may alter it for the future. [One page and a half. O. C., Vol. II., No. 184.] |
Nov. 20.
Aboard the
New Year’s Gift,
Swally Road. |
796. Capt. Nich. Downton to the East India Company. Account of proceedings since the ships left Dover Road on 7th March. Refreshed at Saldanha 15 June, when Cory went away with his rich armour and all his wealth, and has not since been heard of. At St. Augustin, a cow was bought for twelve new English sixpences, which the natives hang about their necks; “if we had not had sixpences they would have had so many shillings ; Spanish money they will take none.” Anchored in Delisha road at Socotra, 9 Sept., and bought aloes. Arrived in Swally road, 15 Oct., not having above four sick men in the whole fleet. Wars between the Mogore and the Portugals. Endeavours of Mocrob Chan, “our archenemy, general of the forces, against Damaun,” to make the fleet join fight against the Portugals; he presumes so much on the king’s favour that he does what he likes. Great hopes of the good endeavours of Edwardes, now setting forward for Agra. Opinion of Thos. Aldworthe that a good trade may be carried on in Persia near Ormus. by the sale of cloth for silk. Some opposition may arise from the Portugals, but they are now weak, and if the Indian princes exercise their own strength, they will be every day weaker. Is well prepared against the Portugals, thinking more of their wily stratagems than their force. Aldworthe’s proceedings with Rich. Steele touching trade with Persia; resolution to send Steele and another merchant by land to Persia, with a letter to Sir Robt. Sherley, intreating his help to move the king for his licence for peaceable trade within his dominions. Wishes they had some hope of being able to transport their goods by that fair river of Sinde to and from that goodly country near Lahore; for while Mocrob Chan has authority at Surat they will ever be crossed. Mocrob Chan has promised Damaun to the Dutch when it is taken from the Portugals; the Dutch had a factory there before the English knew the place. It is in vain to attempt to sell cloths of sad colours. Dares not leave the ship that should be sent home for fear of the Portugals. Want of weights and scales. Desires Rich. Steele, on his return, may be used kindly. [Two pages and a half. O. C., Vol. II., No. 181.] |
[1614.]
[Nov. 20.] |
797. “Particulars desired by Mocrob Chan to be provided in England, and sent by the next ships for Surat, for the Great Mogore, 1614,” including two complete suits of armour, swords, knives, satins, velvets, “all manner of toys that may content the king,” cloths, “pictures in cloth, not in wood,” perfumed leather, looking glasses, figures of beasts or birds made of glass, plaster, silver, brass, wood, iron, stone or ivory, perfumed sweet bags, mastiffs, greyhounds, spaniels, and little dogs, &c. ; with remarks by Nich. Downton. [One page. Indorsed as above. O. C., Vol. II., No. 183.] |
1614.
Nov. 22. |
798. Downton to the East India Company. Copy of No. 796 with marginal précis and postscript; a description of Jasques added. [Two pages. Indorsed, “Sent for London by the way of Persia, by Richard Steele.” O. C., Vol. I., No. 185.] |
Nov. 22.
Ajmere. |
799. Thos. Keridge to Capt. Downton. Congratulations on the arrival of his ships at Surat. Mr. Aldworthe advised him of the King of England’s letters and presents sent by Mr. Edwardes, appointed lieger to the Great Mogul, and his purpose of not showing them until they came to the king’s hands; he also desired the writer to procure the king’s letters to Mocrob Chan for the kind usage of “our people,” and to permit them free trade, which was much doubted, because of the imprisonment of some who went aboard the ships. Failure of his endeavours to procure the Mogul’s license for free trade at Surat, everything being referred to Mocrob Chan, the governor. All the seaport governors have express orders to buy the choicest commodities for the king, “but more especially for jewels and all sorts of strange things wherewith he is extraordinarily delighted;” this will cause Mocrob Chan to prohibit all men dealing with Downton until his turn be served. Negotiation with the Mogul and his governor; firman granted authorizing Mocrob Chan to give the English a place to fortify, supposed rather to bring the Portugals to restore the goods they had seized than out of favour to the English. Respecting the articles concluded by General Thos. Best; both the governors of Ahmedabad and Surat dead. Whatever Downton may require of the king, the writer advises should in the first place, be demanded of Mocrob Chan, “for matters of consequence will not be obtained without his advice.” Satisfaction at the choice of the lieger, “having to deal with a people subtle and deceitful, full of delays in all business, except to serve their own turn, and no truth in them; and the King, ruled by those men near him, too much delighted with toys,” that something or other, though not worth two shillings, must be presented every eight days, when the king may not only favour the business, but in a short time give some pension or allowance towards his maintenance. English cloth at present scarce and in good respect; quantity sold by Sir Robert Sherley. Prices of quicksilver, vermilion, elephants’ teeth, and lead. Midnall’s goods. Has advised Sir Nich. Whitbington concerning the purchase of indigo. Charges against Capt. Best, and the difference of opinion in settling their factory; for his own part he has received favour of the General [Best]; and will acknowledge his love. [One page and three quarters. O. C., II., No. 186.] |
| Nov. 22. |
800. Court Minutes of the East India Company. John Baker, of Sussex, about to marry Mr. Offley’s daughter, to be granted his freedom and liberty to adventure 400l. in the joint stock. Concerning the entertainment of Robt. Gippes, who speaks the Spanish and Arabian tongues. Factors’ wages hereafter to be raised after two years’ service. Rich. Whitlocke referred as probably fit to attend on Sir Thos. Roe; no person to be put unto Sir Thos. without his consent. Simon Stratford referred. Request of John Wolstcenholme to pass 400l. in the joint stock to the account of Wm. Fanshawe, which Wolstenholme had written for in the name of Robt. Lorkin. Petitions of Thos. Ware and John Bond for employment. George Uffington and Robt. Hughes appointed factors. The factors already chosen to be reviewed, some being supposed very meanly qualified. Joost Smith, a Dutchman, having knowledge in drugs and medicines, to attend upon Sir Thos. Roe, if he will have him, not for any private ends, but for the public good of the Company. Richard Bell’s rents at Deptford remitted. Thos. Rastell and John Perrott refused employment. Request of John Hall, the preacher who is entertained to remain with Sir Thos. Roe, about payment of his salary. [Two pages and a half. Court Bk., III., 283–285.] |
Nov. 23.
Ajmere. |
801. Thos. Keridge to W. Edwardes. Has received intelligence from Aldworthe of his coming to the court. Refers him to his general letter to Capt. Downton and himself for advice upon such things as he held fitting. Necessity of his coming well furnished with trifles for continual presents for the king, who is exceedingly delighted with anything strange though of small value ; rich gloves, embroidered caps, purses, looking and drinking glasses, curious pictures, knives exceedingly requested, striking clocks, “if a jack to roast meat on I think he would like it, or any toy of new invention,” coloured beaver hats or silk stockings for his women. Presents must also be brought for the nobility. Ajmere, the principal place for sale of broad cloth; good store of other commodities should also be brought that the people may have a better knowledge of what “our country” yieldeth. Will procure the king’s letter for his safe conduct. He must be careful in the choice of his company and servants, and provide himself for his journey at Ahmedabad. [One page. O. C., Vol. II., No. 188.] |
| Nov. 23. |
802. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Comments upon Simon Stratford, appointed a factor. Three of the sailors of the Clove called in question for leaving the ship at Plymouth. Thos. Wynne, recommended by Sir Thos. Middleton, to attend Sir Thos. Roe with his consent. James Bickford to be an inferior factor. Examination of the factors .already elected; their names and causes of sufficiency. John Holmeden and John Cooper, the most insufficient, to be further considered. Debate on employing George Barklie as a factor; to be offered 100l. the first year, and 150l. per ann. afterwards. Rich. Baker, Thos. Hilyard, Thos. Ware, and Geo. Parkins refused. The ships having fallen down to Gravesend, the commissions to be dispatched. Concerning Mr. Youarte’s wages. [Two pages. Court Bk., III., 286–288.] |
Nov. 24.
London. |
803. John Chamberlain to Sir Dudley Carleton. Sir Thos. Roe is in speech to be sent ambassador as from the King, by the East India Company, to the Great Magore, and if his allowance be so large as reported, it goes far beyond the best ambassadors the King hath abroad. [Extract from DOMESTIC, Jac. I., Vol. LXXVI11. No. 61. Cal., p. 260.] |
Nov. 25.
Firando. |
804. Rich. Cocks to the East India Company. Journey to Langasaque, accompanied by Edmund Sayer and others Orders left by Capt. Saris. Resolution to make a voyage to Cochin China, because some Dutchmen had been well received by the king some two or three years before, and had made a far better trade than they would have done at Siam. Goods taken by Tempest Peacocke and Walter Carwarden, who carried His Majesty of England’s letter with them, and were kindly entertained, with large promises. The Hollanders must needs also make a voyage there. Money owed them by the king for commodities he had bought. Both English and Dutch set upon in the way and slain, with all their followers. General report that the King of Cochin China did this to be revenged on the Hollanders, who burnt a town and slew many of his people not many years past. A great quantity of false dollars bartered away by the Hollanders for commodities, said to be the original cause. Peacocke is slain, but Carwarden is thought to have escaped. Of five that went away from hence only two returned. The junk that Carwarden went in has arrived, so that the writer is now out of hope to hear any good news of him. Much foul weather and many shipwrecks in those parts this year. Goods sold; describes those which it would not be amiss to make trial of. Doubts not but if three English ships come and go every year, and leave factors sufficient to do the business that in a short time they may get into the mainland itself; “for, as the Chinas themselves tell me, their emperor is come to the knowledge how the Emperor of Japan hath received us, and what large privileges he hath granted us ; but the Hollanders are ill spoken of on each part by means of their continual robbing and pilfering the junks of China, which at first they put upon Englishmen, but now it is known to the contrary.” Is informed by the Chinas that if the King of England will write to their emperor, and send a present, it will be taken in good part; wishes to have the credit “ in pursuing of it,” his hope being great, “and, as the saying is, nothing seek nothing find.” Is sure the Chinas will not seek the English. Account of commodities sent to Siam, with presents for the king. Has bought the house, for which they paid 40l. a year, and made it “fire free.” Wm, Addames has paid him 20l. lent by the Company to his wife in England. “I find the man tractable and willing to do your worships the best service he may ;” he has a great desire to find out the northern passage for England from hence, and thinks it an easy matter to be done, in respect the Emperor of Japan offers his assistance; is as willing as any man to second Addames. The Emperor of Japan has banished all Jesuits, priests, friars, and nuns out of his dominions. It is thought wars will ensue between the Emperor [Ogusho Same] and Fidaia Same, son to Ticus Same [Taico Same] the deceased emperor. Has been advised by John Jourdain, chief merchant at Bantam, of the mortality happened to Sir Henry Middleton and his company, and the loss of the Trades [Increase]. Cannot as yet get trade from Tushma. Understands there are great cities in the country of Corea, and betwixt that and the sea mighty bogs, so that no man can travel there; but great waggons have been invented to go upon broad flat wheels under sail as ships do, in which they transport their goods. Damasks, satins, taffeties, and other silk stuffs are made there. It is said that Ticus Same, called Quabicondono, the deceased Emperor of Japan, did pretend to have conveyed a great army in those sailing waggons to assail the Emperor of China in his city of Paquin [Pekin], but was prevented by a Corean nobleman, who poisoned himself to poison the emperor and other great men of Japan, which is the reason why the Japans have lost all the possessions they had in Corea some 22 years past. [Four pages and a half. Much injured by damp. Indorsed, “Received the 19 May, 1617 by the Dragon from Bantam.” O.C., Vol., II., No. 189.] |
Nov. 25.
Firando,
Japan. |
805. Rich. Cocks to Adam Denton, English merchant in Patani. Has received his letter written in Bantam. Cannot as yet brag of having found any beneficial trade in these parts, “yet time may find it out for us as well as it hath done, for others, and it may be into China itself.” All Jesuits, priests, friars, and nuns banished from Japan, and their churches and monasteries pulled down, and it is said the Emperor of China means to do the like at Miako. Their misdemeanors and covetousness reported to have caused this alteration. Rumours of wars like to ensue in Japan, between Ogusho Same, the emperor that now is, and Fidaia Same, a young man of 22, son to Ticus Same, the deceased emperor. Sale of commodities. The cloths of Cambaya most in request, which he wishes him to advise Captain Jourdain of at Bantam, that they may be sent with the first shipping to Firando. This bruit of wars makes every one look on and keep his money, “it being a thing light to carry.” Prices of silks, Brazil woods, and other things. Lead risen in price, tin not worth so much as in England. This letter goes by the junk bound for Siam, of which Addames is captain, and Rich. Wickham and Edmond Sayer, merchants. Sends present of a jar of rusk or white biscuit to himself and Wm. Ebrett, whose letter from Patani, Cocks has answered. Marvels what has become of the Darling. Had she arrived before the junk was bought, it would have saved the Company best part of l,000l. Is little beholden to Mr. Bale and the rest of the eighth voyage, for not writing to him so much as to tell him of the mortality to Sir H. Middleton and his company, and what became of the Peppercorn. Has written to Ebrett at large of their loss in Cochin China. [Two pages. Indorsed, “Reed. 26 March 1616–7.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 190.] |
Nov. 25.
Firando,
Japan. |
806. Rich. Cocks to Rich. Wickham. Instructions for his journey to Siam. Entreats him not to give any occasion of discontent to Wm Addames, but rather bear with him both for his own good and that of the Company, “for fair words are as soon spoken as foul, and cause a man to pass through the world as well amongst foes as friends.” Advises him not to land any goods on the coast of Camboja or Cochin China, for their late loss in Cochin China is not yet out of his memory. To procure a lading of Brazil or red wood, deer skins, raw silk, China stuffs &c., and take council of Lucas Antonison [Antheuniss] and John Goumey. Wishes the whole lading to be for the Company, and none for strangers on freight. Directions for purchase. Concerning a present to the King of Siam. “Take Mr. Addames’ council here, it will give him content, and do you no hurt.” If found fit, Edmond Sayer may be left in those parts, “but do it not except upon good occasion.” Any of the Company’s servants willing to go, to be brought to Firando. If John Gourney be not at Siam, Wickham is to send his letters to Capt. Jourdain at Bantam; directions as to other letters to Adam Denton and Wm. Debrett, and for the return of the junk. Refers it to his discretion to inquire in any other places where trade may be had, “how we may have entrance into them,” which cannot but redound to his great credit and reputation. With invoice of merchandise to be taken by Wickham. [Four pages. Indorsed, “The commission and invoice of goods shipped in the Sea Adventure for Siam.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 191.] |
| Nov. 25. |
807. Court Minutes of the East India Company. George Parkins’ suit for employment referred. Debate on the rawness and insufficiency of some of the younger sort of factors; and how it will affect their own reputations, being committees. Robt. Johnson, John Holmeden, John Cooper, and Robt. Hughes reserved for the next voyage. Resolution to engage Wm. Edney of Taunton, Somerset, as a factor for five years at 100l. per annum. Refusal of Robt. Gippes to accept the salary offered by the Company. Offer of Thos. Sprake, who speaks the Portugal and Spanish tongues and has such an affection to the voyage that he will go as an ordinary man at 22s. a month, accepted. Richard Baker refused. Petition of William, brother to John Lancelott, late purser in the Trades Increase, who was slain by the Turks in the Red Sea, where he lost the greater part of his estate ; 30l. bestowed upon him as a token of the Company’s affection for his late brother. Suit of Samuel Castleton, who came home captain in the Pearl out of the East Indies, to be again employed ; proposal to entertain him as a surveyor; he is requested to project a voyage into some part of the Indies, not yet frequented by the English. Concerning the wages of a man who died at sea in the Dragon. Geo. Jackson chosen a factor. Thos. Cuerton refused. Carpenters very scarce; how to be provided. Wages of Thos. Sawell. Demand of John Anderson for filling up the wharf at Deptford. £1,500 in cordage delivered into the storehouse, the account to be examined. Thos. Ware appointed purser’s mate in the Attendant. [Four pages. Court Bk., III., 288–291.] |
Nov. 28.
Surat. |
808. Consultation of merchants [aboard the New Year’s Gift]. That the charges of a resident at Agra, estimated on 25 April 1613, at 300l. per annum, cannot be less than 400l., 500l. or 600l. per annum, “for one to live closely and with credit,” and that if any man have that employment “under the title and profession of a merchant, it were better that he went not at all and so the voyage to be overthrown.” Mr. Edwardes to be employed with the title of messenger, sent by King James to the Great Mogore. Signed by Thos, Aldworthe, Thos. Elkington, Edw. Dodsworth, Thos. Mitford. Wm. Biddulph, and Rich. Steele. [Three quarters of a page. O. C., Vol. II., No. 169.] |
| Nov. 28. |
809. “Consultation of merchants, whose names are hereunder written, held the 28th Nov. 1614, in Surat, concerning a discovery of the coasts and parts of Persia for trade of merchandize.” Rich. Steele, who lately came through Turkey and Persia, having given Thos. Aldworthe and Wm. Biddulph reasons for great hope of a trade in Persia, and especially of the convenience of place for shipping, is appointed, with John Crouther to proceed in the discovery; the charges are estimated at 150l Signed by General Nich. Downton, Wm. Edwardes, Thos. Aldworthe, Thos. Elkington, Edw. Dodsworth, and Thos. Mitford. [Half a page. O. C., Vol. II., No. 192.] |
| Nov. ? |
810. Capt. Nich. Downton to [Sir Robt. Sherley, in Persia]. Little thought ever to have written to him when they parted in the Peppercorn at Saldanha, because of the great mortality amongst the writer’s men. Has been informed of his ill–usage by the Portugals, of the loss of some of his followers, and his long abode in the Mogul’s court. Is glad to hear that Lady Sherley has so well overcome her sea travel, and left Agra in health. Wm. Hawkins died [on his passage] homewards, so did most of the people in that ship; he was buried in Ireland, and his wife is married to Gabriel Towerson, who visited Sherley’s son, and informed the writer of his health. Did not leave Ireland till the depth of winter for want of better winds and strength in his people to work his ship, and was carried to these ships, wishing, though weak, to be transported to a warmer climate. The desire for his countrymen to have intercourse with Persia has increased. Has been informed that Jasques is a fit place for the ships to land goods, but hears also that many Portugals, always enemies to all our proceedings, are in the town, “who, by reproachful slanders use ever to incense all nations against us.” Proposes putting the East India Company to the expense of sending the bearer, Richard Steele, to him in Persia, and desires his help in this business, as if these endeavours of the writer effect nothing, he will be for ever disgraced for undertaking a business beyond his commission. Entreats him principally to move the King of Persia, whether he will grant his firman for the subjects of the King of England to have free intercourse and peaceable commerce throughout his dominions, and if so, that Jasques may be prepared for the courteous entertainment of the English, and that they may be allowed to go to the court and other places as they require. Requests him to give Rich. Steele, who is now the Company’s servant, every information and furtherance. [One page. Indorsed, “The copy of Capt. Downton’s letter to Sir Robert Sherley.” O. C., Vol. II., No. 193.] |
Nov. 29.
Surat. |
811. John Sandcrofte to the East India Company. Progress of the Gift, Hector, Hope, and Solomon since they crossed the line on 19 th April. Arrival of Capt. Best, Capt. Newport, and Mr. Pet at Saldanha. Purchase of cattle at St. Augustin, at 5s., 6s., and 7s. a head, good and fat; for a silver chain worth 8s. or 9s. two beasts of the best sort were bought; the people much desire silver chains such as come from the masters’ whistles, those which were gilt they would not take at any rate. All the King of Socotra’s aloes purchased. Arrived in Swally road 15 Oct., having lost but 12 men in the four ships. The taking by the Portugals, about a year since, of a great ship of 11,000 or 12,000 tons in Swally road, in which the Great Mogul’s mother was a great adventurer, has caused the Great Mogul to drive them out of Surat and to join forces with the King of Decane [Deccan], and besiege most of the forts belonging to the Portugals between Surat and Goa. Unsuccessful endeavours of the Viceroy to make the four English ships help the besiegers. Wm. Edwardes ready to go for Agra. Death of Emsworth anfl Wood on 23rd present, the rest of the merchants in good health. No commodities bought or sold since their coming. Great store of goods in the country. They are to go to Ahmedabad, Cambaya, and Brothera to buy goods for lading one of the ships. Oxwicke and Young gone to Baroach to buy cotton yarn. Steele, who is at Surat, employed into Persia to discover trade, where he pretends silk may be bought at 7s. per Ib.; Mr. Crouther to go with him. News of the death of Sir Henry Middleton and most of his men. Found Aldworthe and Biddulph at Surat, who have been very well used. Canninge died long before. [One page and a quarter. O. C., Vol. II., No. 194.] |
| Nov. 29. |
812. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Conference between the governor and Mr. Wolstenholme, as to unlading the Clove. General court to be called for disposing of the pepper. Proposals of Mr. Leske, the preacher, concerning his allowances, &c.; some conceived Bantam to be the fittest place because of his gravity and learning, “that place being the rendezvous for our people from all places;” others thought him fitter for Surat where he may oppose the Jesuits who are busy there; resolved to send him to Surat; terms of his appointment. Amount charged upon Raphe Crofte, late purser in the Osiander, who died at sea, to be examined. Petitions of John Morris and Martin Kentishe for employment. Wm. Martin to be purser’s mate in the Lion. Augustine Spaldinge’s discourse in writing of his 12½ years’ good service, having been upwards of four years a principal factor; he procured a gainful trade at Succadana, disbursed much of his money for lading the Consent at the Moluccas, his salary only 50l. per annum; was in great personal danger in preserving the Company’s houses from fire ; in lading and bringing two junks from Banda to Bantam, pretending his acquaintance with the King and people of Booton, to be the safeguard to his men and goods, for which he craves a gratuity and to be admitted an adventurer. The Company’s remarks; money made by him in their service, going over a poor youth, his underhand dealings with the Chinese and intolerable wrongs to the Company, as Capt. Saris testifies; “his renewing of these motions is but to waken a sleeping dog;” both refused. To confer with Mr. Freeman about hiring his ship on freight. Certain objections of divines to “the gentleman’s” proposal for his daughter to go to the King of Sumatra answered, and the lawfulness of the enterprise proved by scripture; supposition that the rest of the women appertaining to the king may poison her if she become an extraordinary favourite replied to by her father; if the King consent it was thought it would prove a very honourable action. Proposals of Peter Hought for payment of his adventure accepted. Difference between Sawell and the widow Juett about wages ended. [Three pages and a quarter. Court Bk., III., 292–295.] |
