East Indies, China and Japan: November 1621

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, East Indies, China and Japan, Volume 3, 1617-1621. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1870.

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'East Indies, China and Japan: November 1621', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, East Indies, China and Japan, Volume 3, 1617-1621, (London, 1870) pp. 480-492. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/east-indies-china-japan/vol3/pp480-492 [accessed 25 March 2024]

November 1621

Nov. 1/11. Batchian. 1141. Giles Cole to W. Nicolls in Malayo. Concerning the accounts with the Dutch. The businesses here past not to be believed. Begs he will proceed in nothing till he hears from Johnson more at large, for thereby you shall know more knavery than you dream of or at present can imagine. They look for nothing but disgrace and reproach, therefore hasten their remedy or else they must suffer. [One page. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1006.]
Nov. 1/11. Batchian. 1142. Thos. Johnson to Wm. Nicolls. Accounts between Roll and the English ; a baser fellow never breathed than I have to do with ; cannot now send the accounts. Begs he will be mindful of him and not judge amiss of him wanting money, for he has bought a house. Whether he must allow one third of the Portugals wages who are assistant to the Dutch. The Dutch are so full of malice that they have forewarned all that they can that they will sell the English nothing, or do ought for them. Has no cook, forced to dress their meat themselves. [One page. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1007.]
Nov. 1-2. 1143. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Prusson appointed overseer of the Company's sails, cordage, and masts for one year from Michaelmas last, with a salary of 50l. Instructions given to Mountney, clerks of the warehouses, store receivers, and accountants general. Nov. 2.-Petition of Wm., brother and administrator of the last will of Robt. Larkin, deceased, for his wages, as had been agreed on at a court held 15 January 1609-10 (see 1st Vol. of Calendar, p. 204), also for certain goods and moneys. Request of Edwards to have the bond wherein he stands bound for his brother. Brettridge, "a great adventurer," to have 12 barrels of indigo. Personal application of Lady Dale that the account may be summed up between her husband and the Company ; discussion thereon ; Sir Thos. Dale supposed to have lost all when the Sun was cast away. Order for payment of 70l., given by some of the Company's servants in the Indies towards erecting a school in Virginia. Four culverins borrowed by the Virginia Company to be applied for. Petition of John Farie, returned in the Royal James, for his wages ; he is charged with moneys belonging to the Company in Gourney's hands at the time of his death, but said he was not with Gourney when he died, that the goods were left with Johnson and Pitt, who consumed much of the stock ; Farie requested to set down what he observed of the factories, and of the well or ill government of their people, "and if they find that he deals faithfully and freely with them he shall find they will deal well with him for his wages." Concerning the wages of George Cokayne, late the Company's factor at Succadana, deceased, whereof his mother hath received 100l. here. Lanman to make a collection of the factors in the Indies to the southward. All the cloves, including those sequestered from Denton's account, to be sold at 7s. 4d. the lb. Motion of the Governor that his Majesty's letter sent to Sir Thos. Smythe about a year past, touching the Persian trade, be read at the next court. The Governor put the Company in remembrance that they suffer much in the Indies through the insufficiency and ill condition of their factors, and that some wholesome remedy should be sought for this growing mischief ; Henry Robinson, one of their own body and a committeeman, content to undergo a voyage to the East Indies for the setting right the factories there, but it will be necessary to strengthen him with power sufficient over all there, including the President ; the motion accepted, and thought fit that he go in the quality of Supervisor General ; "this kind of authorizing is not without precedent, for the Syndichi of Venice do examine all their factors in Candie and elsewhere." Thanks to be given to Robinson for his kind offer, and afterwards a committee to fall upon what terms he will undertake the voyage. Minutes of a General Court. Sale of commodities with names of purchasers and the prices. [Eight pages Court Book, V. 184-192.]
Nov. 6. Batavia. 1144. A brief answer to the most material points of the Netherlanders protest given in the 5/15 November 1621. Concerning the restitution of ships and goods taken presently after the publication of the accord, according to the sincere meaning of the contract ; how falsely the Dutch accuse the English in not furnishing their part of ships for defence ; how far the English have derogated in the least degree from the sovereignty, either in Jacatra, the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda ; the besieging of Bantam, the natives absolutely refusing any conference of peace with the Dutch, unless they will raze their fort and leave their kingdom of Jacatra ; and the delay of their fleet's departure for Goa. In conclusion that seeing the Netherlanders are so contentious, false, and impudent in all their proceedings, not shaming to affirm or write anything that makes for their purposes, the undersigned have thought fit not to answer this their protest so fraught with untruths, but refer themselves and their proceedings to the censure of any competent judge, before whom they are ready to justify all their proceedings. Signed by Richard Fursland, Thomas Brockedon, Gabriel Towerson, and Rich. Hasellwood. [Six pages. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1008.]
Nov. 7. 1145. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Instructions to Lanman for perfecting the account between Lady Dale and the Company, and to have the view of Ball's papers. Humphrey Holloway not allowed to pass over all his adventure to Blackmore, his stock being bound for John Holloway to the Company. Mrs. Greenwell's dividend "made stay of because she is behind her payments in the new joint stock." Touching the contract with Burrell to build a ship. Proposition to exchange the James Royal with the King Hall. The Company's solicitor about a suit against one of the sailmakers. Arbitrators between the Company and Forrest and Stavely, come home in the Royal James. Suit of Thos. Hackwell, Emanuel Butta, Bartholomew Churchman, and Richard Newall, employed as masters and masters' mates, for their wages ; they were told the court expected their journals, but they excused themselves by their captivity under the Dutch, the loss of their instruments, &c., but said they were ready to make a true answer to any question that should be demanded of them ; their wages to be paid, but for the time they were prisoners to have a third as others in like cases, but first to be examined ; to attend to-morrow (see ante, No. 948). Committee appointed to attend the Lords about George Ball. Demand of Capt. Pring for his wages ; is pressed for his journal, which he promises to bring in. Application of the creditors of John Holloway, insolvent, touching his adventure. Suit of Mrs. Viney, sister of Capt. Jourdain, and her son Jonas touching money found in Jourdain's comptoire at the time of his death ; accounts to be first cast up between the Company and Jourdain. Sir Thos. Smythe asks counsel about Wickham's will. Petition of Sarah Wright for allowance for ryals due to her late husband. [Four pages. Court Book, V. 192-196.]
Nov. ? 1146. Petition of George Ball, merchant, to the Privy Council. Has been employed by the East India merchants beyond the seas about ten years, during all which time he received strange usage. Upon his arrival in England they charged him with an action of 70,000l. ; his person, estate, and books of account have been attached, and he is oppressed by a multiplicity of suits and unjust calumniations. Prays that the Company may be ordered to proceed with expedition against him and deliver to him his books or copies of them for his defence. [Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CXXIII., No. 96, Cal., p. 307.]
Nov. 7. 1147. Sir Wm. Hallidaie, Governor of the East India Company, to Lord Zouch. The proceedings against Geo. Ball not so much upon the matter of his account as upon his other misdemeanors in abusing the Company's trust ; hopes the Council will appoint a time certain to examine the charges against him. [Domastic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CXXIII., No. 97, Cal., p. 307.]
Nov. 7. Hague. 1148. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sec. Calvert. The States Deputies designed to his Majesty, who have been with the Prince of Orange at the camp to take his advice concerning their instructions, are returned ; Somersdyke and Staverts hither and Bas to Amsterdam, whose coming these two attend to make their report to the States, which being done they pretend immediately to set forward, but he has some reason to believe that Somersdyke will draw on the time till the meeting of the Assembly of the States of Holland, which has been put off for 15 days. [Extract from Holland Corresp.]
Nov. 7. Surat. 1149. The President and Factors of Surat to the East India Company. Were constrained to give the Governor of Surat 1,000 ryals to procure the freeing of their business. Discouragements for elephants' teeth. Prices for which lead has sold and indigo has been bought. The prizes taken (besides the mariners' shares) yield about 9,000l. sterling. Trade in coral ; good hope of sales now that the wars between the Mogul and Deccans are compounding. Fear polished coral will find no vent either in the Red Sea or in Persia. The Company may send 500l. worth yearly of amber beads, both white and yellow. Bulgaria hides all sold. Have countermanded the buying of Bengal silk upon the prohibition received. Quicksilver all sold. Cloth of gold will doubtless sell to good profit ; it has all been sent with all their other fine wares up to the Prince by his appointment and upon his adventure. Recommend the purchase in Florence of satins brocaded with gold and silver, but none with a black ground, for the Prince desires them, on whose satisfaction in such services depends his favour to them. Have also secretly sent the jewels to court. The double looking-glass which cost 100l. sold for 1,250 rupees, and the three rubies rated at 90l. are sold for 1,400 rupees. The agate pictures will not make the profit expected by reason of great quantities brought hither by the Venetians ; they now yield but 50 per cent. profit, whereas in times past they would yield three for one. The great pearls invoiced for 340l. sold for 5,000 rupees. Advise a constant yearly supply. Four of the ancient factors will return in the next ships, Wm. Biddulph, Jas. Bickford, Edward Haynes, and Robt. Hutchinson. To appoint a successor to Thos. Raison when he surrenders his place, if Giles James is not entreated to remain. One third of his salary paid to Thos. Keridge from the time of relinquishing his place until his coming away. Allowance to Thos. Thornbury for the expense of the Hart and Roebuck. Mean to send to the Red Sea this year. [Two pages. Headed, "The brief contents of the President's and factors' letters from Surat by the Hart and Roebuck, dated in Surat 7th and kept till 20 November 1621, with a postscript." O.C., Vol. III., No. 1009.]
Nov. 9. 1150. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Petition of Phbe Adcombe for relief against John Lamprier for money received of him by her husband before his going out in the Clove, for an adventure. Suit of Wm. Reynolds for wages due to his servant Thos. Hawkins, who went out chief surgeon in the Centaur, of the Earl of Warwick. Suit of Ann Berden for relief against John Berden, who, executor to her husband, deceased in the Indies, "doth seek all extremities against her and her children." Petition of Susan Langram that orders be given for her husband to return home by the next shipping ; granted. Diamonds to be sold, their value set at 1,700l., 2,900l., and 3,300l. by different persons. Carpets to be sold at 5s. instead of 6s. 8d. the rupee, more being expected home by their ships. A general court for sales to be held. Message from Sir Clement Edmondes that the Lords purpose to call George Ball before them that afternoon, and that some of the Company attend to charge him withal ; resolution not to entertain council ; committee appointed to attend. [Three pages and a half. Court Book, V. 196-199.]
Nov. 10. London. 1151. John Chamberlain to Sir Dudley Carleton. He may guess the state they are in and how sound at heart "(for all our fair shows)" when neither lord mayor, aldermen, farmers, no, nor whole companies, as the East Indian, Muscovy, and others, are able to hold out and pay their debts. [Extract from Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CXXIII., No. 100, Cal., p. 308.]
Nov. 12. 1152. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Report of the Governor of the proceedings with George Ball at the Council table ; he desired that the charges against him might be set down in writing and he would answer them ; it was left to the election of the Company whether they would proceed against Ball by way of a bill in the Star Chamber or otherwise by a committee from that table. Complaint of the clerk of the Council table that he is neglected ; fees to be paid. To advise with counsel whether their proofs against Ball will hold plea in the Star Chamber. Sir Randall Crew, the Attorney and Solicitor General, Sir John Walter, and Mr. Cox, a Solicitor General and an Attorney of the Star Chamber, to be retained in this cause ; committee appointed "to follow the business." The charges for the crowner's quest and the burial of Henry Kirwarton, slain casually with a piece of the Company's timber, coming to 28s. 10d., to be paid. Touching the disposal of 79,500 lbs. of pepper come home in the Royal James, and of other goods. Discussion on the offer "which had proceeded lovingly from Mr. Robinson of his going into the Indies." Mr. Munnes entreated not to take it in ill part if he were named as the fittest man to accompany Robinson. The Governor glad to hear a concurrence in the nomination of Munnes, and said "that their affairs in the Indies lye a bleeding, and that partly by the dishonesty of some factors, partly by the weakness of others that are overmatched with those that govern there for the Dutch, the Company's stock hath been strangely consumed and lost to the general hurt of the adventurers and the utter undoing of some of them ; that Mr. Munnes might discern the hand of God beckoning him to undertake this great work of certifying the factories and restoring the trade," &c. This motion seconded by the deputy and divers of the committees, but Munnes excused himself "by his own weakness of body and the want of those other endowments requisite to so weighty a work." He is "pressed with an unanimous consent of the whole court," is promised unlimited powers, "that he might ex re nata begin and reform as he pleased," and that he shall go in the Royal James "and in such equipage as himself shall hold fitting," that if he should return with an account of half their stock lost, they will account he hath saved the other half. "This and much more was spoken to spur him on, but he persisted in excusing himself." He is entreated to think further of it against the next court. Robinson called in and told other matters had directed their discourse concerning his employment, and desired him to respite their answer. [Four pages. Court Book, V. 200-204.]
Nov. 12. 1153. Richard Fursland and Thos. Brockedon to Wm. Nicolls, agent in the Moluccas in Malayo. Acknowledge receipt of his several letters. Notice his passage to Macassar with the dangers he escaped, and what passed with the King there, and the hindrances sustained through the non-delivery of the piece of ordnance, his departure hence, coming aground, chasing a junk, his ill sucecss and hurt of his men, his arrival at Amboyna, departure for Banda and what passed between him and the Dutch General, his proceedings on Lantar and Pooloroon, and return to Amboyna. All this needs no reply, only concerning the inhuman dealing of the Dutch, there is no way to help themselves but by advising our masters of their unjust proceedings, which they have done to the full, and must now with hope and patience expect remedy from them for all wrongs, which are so extreme as nature can hardly endure them. Perceive the time of his departure from Hitto and arrival at Batchian and landing two factors, Wm. Johnson and Giles Cole, with a cargo for defraying their third part of the charge there. Commodiousness of the place ; fit for careening of ships. As the Dutch have a factory there, he did well to settle one for the English also. Touching the Dutchmen's excuse in not permitting him to sell any goods because they had no order from the Governor. Further take notice of his arrival at Malayo and entertainment from the Governor. Have done their best to remedy the unruliness of the seamen ; to let Mr. Alexander know of their discontent at his proceedings. Also take notice how he has disposed of Anthony Wallis, Crofte, Harrison, and Dent, and what he writes concerning the finishing of Gnoffiquia. Concerning the monthly accounts and the excessive charges of the Company in that place ; cannot remedy this ; they must be paid if the English will have trade there : the articles are so plain in the point of paying their part of the charges that he need not have made any difference herein. Are not ignorant of the great gain the Dutch make by paying with commodities. If Houtman take any advantage against them, protest against him and send the same to the writers. The charge of the Governor's table excessively great, but both there and at Amboyna, where it is greater, the Dutch will make them pay their part of it. Send the Dutchmen's answers to all complaints received from thence, according to which the English are to rule themselves, "for although many things are against our wills and reasons also, yet thus they mean to proceed with us, and their wills are laws where they command and have authority." Any dispute or differences which may arise concerniug the charges or other matters to be referred to the writers. Instructions touching accounts. For the rating of commodities, if they be too high priced, then to agree with the Dutch to set them at a lower rate, such as they may be vented at, which is but reason, and the Dutch ought not to deny them herein. A poor quantity of cloves appointed to their share. Too well know how common it is with the Dutch to maintain any untruth, though never so gross. The dissolution of forts in those parts will cause prejudice to their affairs ; they know that the Dutch seek the utter ruin of their masters' affairs. Have received copy of Eman's will and inventory and his relation of Capt. Fitzherbert's detaining of the goods. Take no pleasure in hearing of his uncivil wrangling with Capt. Fitzherbert. For avoiding of controversies with the Dutch, wish Nicolls would temper his passions with reason ; reason is better than rage to prevail with them. The Dutchmen's motion for the Exchange going to Japan was a mere trick to disappoint them of the employment of the ship to better purpose here, but their subtilty was well discovered and as fitly answered by Capt. Fitzherbert and himself (Nicolls). Sent a copy of all the debt the Dutch had standing out, which they hope Muschamp delivered to him, and by that he may perceive whether there be any juggling or not, by comparing the particulars with their books. Touching the goods sold to the Chinese. The Governor's slighting must with patience be overcome, and the Company's affairs preferred before their own reputation. Arrival of two ships from England, the Anne and Lesser James, with a rotten hulk for a victualler ; two ships to follow, the Whale and Tryal ; those now come have brought a very small capital of money, and if the others bring no better supply they will be forced to sit still in all those factories for want of means. Their ships from the coast and Surat are neither arrived, so cannot send anything by this passage. Have sent the Supply for Amboyna ten days past, and furnished her to supply the wants of that place and Banda, and she also is to lade rice at Macassar. Intend sending another ship that way. The Ruby may take in all the cloves. If they cannot furnish him with means for trade next year they shall not need to keep a ship there as they did last year. Have sent the Exchange, Anne, Diamond, and Claw in company with five Holland ships for Goa against the Portugals, to remain on that coast till April, and then sail for Mozambique, but to be back again on the coast of Malabar to meet the caracs which shall come out of Portugal next year. Next year a Hollander will go Admiral and Capt. Fitzherbert Vice-Admiral, though much against his will. The Charles stays only the coming of the Clove from Jambi, and then will quickly be despatched for England, with, they hope, another between this and March. The Hollanders have given orders to remove their factors from Acheen, and they have done the like ; the dear price of pepper the reason they may not continue. The Dutch intend to take all the King's junks they can meet with ; the Dabul junk they now intend to surprise. The King lies sick of a lingering disease, yet still he hath a mind to Malacca. He took Perak with much wealth last year. If Nicolls sends the Ruby for Amboyna upon the arrival of this ship, it must be with the consent of the Governor there, else he may not do it until their other ships arrive. [Seven pages. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1010.]
Nov. 14-16. 1154. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Report of the Governor of his private speech with Munnes ; his excuses ; "he shall find their affairs so embroiled as he can conceive no comfort in the enterprise ; * * * * that where it had been put to him as his duty to God, he had examined his conscience, and finds that he hath matter for his charity to work upon at home, and doth cast his eye upon his family with as much and perhaps more tenderness 'than another, and to conclude, he was persuaded he should not live to get thither." He desired to be excused being present in court, but the Governor took not this for a final answer, but respited that to another time. It was thought good to give Munnes some time to recollect himself, because perhaps the suddenness and earnestness of the motion had wrought upon his spirits ; also that the mayors should first come, and the fittings of the Royal James will take some time, therefore to forbear to press him at present, "but it was resolved that they would hold constant to their first proposition." Motion of Mrs. Viney, sister of Captain Jourdain, touching her brother's estate ; discussion thereon ; also on a similar motion of Jonas Viney. Dispute about the adventure of Sir Thos. Dale ; no more money to be paid to Lady Dale. Request of Humphrey Holloway to pass over his whole adventure to Blackmore refused, the stock standing bound for bills of his brother John Holloway. Payment to be made on account of Nathaniel Martin, deceased, to Shreeve and Thos. Moorton. Warrant for payment of 20l. to Capper on account for prosecuting the suit in the Star Chamber against George Ball. Francis Taylor and his creditors. Suit of William administrator to the estate of his brother Robert Larkin, touching his brother's wages and goods. Nov. 16.-Motion to withdraw the suit in Chancery against the sailmakers. Owen's goods discharged by Lady Dale. Petition of John Coaker for recompense for extraordinary services in the Indies, and for a hurt received from the Hollanders in their factory at Japan. Concerning Jackson's account and his losses sustained by the Dutch ; the court wondered much how their factors durst give recompense in that kind, having received no commission from hence so to do, "and therefore ordered that stay should be made of those 150 ryals." Receipt presented under the seal of the Virginia Company, dated 15 November inst., for 70l. 8s. 6d. freely given by the Company of the Royal James for erecting a school in Virginia. Sale of bloodstones at 11s. per lb. 100l. lent to Mrs. Viney on her solicitation ; further request of Jonas Viney touching the moneys given him by his uncle Capt. Jourdain, and also by the Queen of Patani. Request of Sir Henry Power, now Viscount of Valentia in Ireland, concerning payment of his adventure. Refusal of Munnes, through Browne, to undertake a voyage to the Indies ; the court desirous notwithstanding to receive the answer from himself, and that on Monday next they will both expect an answer from Munnes and enter into consideration of Robinson for that employment. Minutes of a General Court. Sale of goods with names of purchases and the prices. [Nine pages. Court Bk., V., 204-213.
Nov. 16/26. Batchian. 1155. Giles Cole to W. Nicolls in Malayo. Proceedings of Rowle; expenses of the English house and prices of various kinds of commodities. Insult offered to Johnson by the Dutch "Antient." who drinking to him threw the remainder in his face, and when demanded the reason said he had christened him the Dutch fashion. Rowle daily disgraces Cole and Johnson, affirming to be King himself, and telling the blacks and people so, and that they shall do nothing for the English but what he gives them leave to do. Would rather be a swabber in the ship than employed ashore. Rowle forces them every Sunday to come to Malayo service or else they must pay for default every time. [Three pages and a quarter. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1013.]
Nov. 17/27. Madrid. 1156. Sir Walter Aston to Sir Dudley Carleton. Confident report that Don Juan de Silva, late ambassador from this King, with the King of Persia, bound homeward in a lesser ship from Goa, and richly laden, is taken by the pirates ; this King hath given orders that his armada be put presently to sea, that he may recover his ambassador before he pass the straits. [Extract from Corresp., Spain.]
Nov. 17/27. Batchian. 1157. Thos. Johnson to Wm. Nicolls in Malayo. His accounts and differences with Rowle ; about them. In want of a cook ; cannot get one for 20 ryals a month. [One page, O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1014.]
Nov. 18. Surat. 1158. Henry Wheately, purser in the Lion, to the East India Company. Concerning the supplies of the ship ; their meal most musty ; bad quality of other provisions. [Half a page. Abstract. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1009.]
Nov. 19. 1159. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Discussion on the request of John Loss, on behalf of George Ball, that he may have his papers and books in the place where he is prisoner, the better to instruct himself to answer the Company's complaints against him ; also with Munnes, touching his going to the Indies ; arguments persuading him thereto ; he gave "many thanks for their great love and good opinion expressed, but would in nowise refer to further consideration." Robinson would be a very fit colleague for Munnes ; but if the latter wholly refuse, Robinson will not be found incapable of the whole employment. Resolved by erection of hands to proceed with Robinson ; he is called in and told "that the Company first and last takes thankfully and doth lovingly embrace his offer to go into the Indies." As for the conditions, he referred himself wholly to the Company ; considerations thereon. Request of Owen, servant to Sir Thos. Dale, that order be given to Adam Denton to appear at the next court. [Four pages. Court Bk. V. 213-217.]
Nov. 19/29. 1160. Giles Cole to John Gonning, at Taffasolo. Complains of Rowle and the Dutch. "I have seen more friendship at Billingsgate for a box of the ear as [than ?] at their hands for the fairest words of a man." If they had two slaves they would in one year save their price paid for them, for they have nothing done but what the lucre of money makes them do. All petty necessaries bought for rice and cloth of low prices, which women and boys sell in the market place or in the woods, such as potatoes, salads, tobacco, cucumbers, eggs, and hens, with ducks and all manner of fruits necessary. Oil the staff of food in this place by reason of the salt fish. In want of porcelain and pots, both iron, brass, and clay, and above all, one to dress their, victuals in, which is not to be had here for love or money. [One page. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1015.]
Nov. 21-23 1161. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Offer of George Brewin to go factor to the Indies declined. Request of Denly touching his dividend. Whether Capt. Pring should be proceeded against with Ball in the Star Chamber ; arguments for and against. Capt. Pring called in ; his answers to former objections against him ; to receive 500l. on account of his wages. Request of Mrs. Viney for accounts to be made up between her brother Capt. Jourdain and the Company ; Jonas Viney wholly submits all matters between him and the Company to the court. Personal application of George Ball to have access to his books and papers, according to an order from the Council table ; to be delivered to him. Henry Forrest and John Stavely desire the Company's favour ; to procure the arbitrators' award, and then confess their wrongs. Answers of Adam Denton and Robt. Owen to Fursland's charge of taking ryals from the Dutch fort at Jacatra. Nov. 23.-Answers to three several requests of George Ball touching his books of accounts and his letters. Whether to proceed against Capt. Pring with Ball in the Star Chamber ; resolved for the present to proceed against Ball only. Petition of Wm. Wyly touching his arrest by Lady Dale for money alleged to be due to Sir Thos. Dale. The ship building at Deptford ready to be launched. Mrs. Wickham to have her son's will delivered to her. Request of Adam Denton for two chests of silk brought home in the Royal James upon his account ; he said they were bought of Johnson, factor at Jambi, where they were sent from Jacatra, and that they were sold to make money to pay what was owing to the King of that place for customs unpaid, by commission from Brockedon ; the court "took a great distaste at this manner of dealing by Brockedon, who, having store of money by him, would send silks to be sold, as if the Company had not otherwise been able than in this shifting manner to pay their debt. It was said that "a drunken man would not have erred so grossly, and that Brockedon had been better to have played away so much money at dice than to have exposed the credit of the Company to the censure of the natives of that place." Further examination of Denton ; answer to his request for his goods sequestered to the Company's use deferred. Award of the arbitrators between the Company and Forrest and Stavelin, who had been arrested for abusing the Company in the Indies, Forrest, by his own confession, having played away the Company's money at dice. Demand of Richard Edwardes for his bond given for his brother ; the unquietness of his brother the cause of their keeping the bond, and to bridle his humour of questioning the Company in the parliament for a business wherein he had received satisfaction. On being pressed, and the court considering all he could do was to call them to Chancery for the delivery thereof, their resolute answer was they would keep the bond. Minutes of "a Court of Sales." Those of the generality who are absent to be fined 12d. apiece, to be defalcated out of their several stocks. Sale of commodities, with names of purchasers and the prices. [Twelve pages. Court Bk. V. 217-229.]
Nov. 23./Dec. 3. Batchian. 1162. Thos. Johnson to W. Nicolls at Malayo. Complains that Rowle will not let him have rice. The bearer of this is the King's father-in-law ; begs Nicolls will speak with him and let him see the certificate sent as to the Dutch, and he will tell the truth. Has had many words with the Dutch ; now they suffer a soldier to dress their meat, and profess great kindness, but perform not much. Wishes a black to be sent to him. Begs he will write home, that he shall make use of the Chinese. Kind commendations to John Perrey. [One page and a half. The following lines are on the back of this letter :- In trust is treason, True love is reason, There's fraud in friendship, Little love in kendship (sic), Much less in strangers, Whose trust is dangerous. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1016.]
Nov. 23. 1163. Capt. Wedll to the East India Company. Advises a supply of munition to be sent to Surat. Provisions for "the fleet of the whale," which had to borrow two pieces of ordnance from the Dutch. Oakum and old canvas to be sent in greater quantities. Not to trust any masts that have been already used in the Indies. [Half a page. Abstract O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1009.]
Nov. 24. Hague. 1164. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sec. Calvert. The States ambassadors upon their departure for England ; has thought fit to despatch his nephew with information of what hath passed concerning their employment. Account of their interview with him ; Sommerdyke's request to recommend their negotiation to his Majesty ; let them plainly know that if they went as slenderly instructed and authorized as two extraordinary ambassages sent from hence to his Majesty before, he could neither offer them his service nor undertake for their welcome ; their assurances that they went fully instructed and amply authorized, both to treat and conclude concerning those four points-differences in the East Indies, in Greenland, the cloth, and matter of moneys. If they should fail herein they are now without excuse. In the business of the East Indies, which is of greatest difficulty, they here profess as well the States deputies as those of the Company, who have been likewise with him, that they will submit themselves to all reasonable terms of satisfaction and agreement. Much disagreement in this Company touching the renewal of their Octroi. Finds by these men, besides their general professions, that in one point in particular, which is of consideration, they will give ours good contentment, which is in the revocation of the Dutch General Coen ; if it be stood upon with them, and withal if in the court of justice which these men have erected at Jacatra, of the injustice whereof ours do so much complain, some moderate course, as a chambre impartiel, or the like, may content them, it will be obtained. [Extract from Holland Corresp.]
Nov. 24. 1165. Consultation at the invitation of the Lord Frederick Houtman, First Councillor of India, Governor and Director over the Moluccas, to which Wm, Nicolls, agent of the English East India Company, and the rest of the assisting council on either part, were called. The proposed peace between the Ternatans, friends of the English and Dutch, and the Tidoreeses, their enemies, disapproved of by both Companies as hurtful and prejudicial. Resolved, the chief heads and principals of the island of Machian and Motir having arrived yesterday, and the Tidoreeses themselves shortly expected to treat about the said peace, to hinder or anyways to circumvent the Ternatans in this their determination ; but if they make peace or conclude a cessation of arms, then the Ternatans to be informed the next day such peace was to the prejudice of both Companies, and the same to be discussed before their King and some of his principals, and all possible means used to hinder their further treaty. As to hostilities against the Tidoreeses, the Ternatans to be consulted ; whether three Java junks of Gressic should be allowed to trade. [Two pages and a half. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1012.]
Nov. 26. Hague. 1166. Sir Dudley Carleton to the Lord Chamberlain. The ambassadors now sent to reconcile the differences betwixt us, go with full commission and instructions to treat of such things as the last, for want of both, left imperfect, and because they desire it, he cannot but accompany them with his best recommendation. [Extract from Holland Corresp.]
Nov. 26. 1167. Capt. Blythe to the East India Company. Complains of lack of powder and shot for the whales' fleet. The Dutch secretly seek by all cunning practices to damnify them. Ships sailed from Surat towards Persia, 25 November. [Half a page. Abstract. O.C., Vol. VIII., No. 1009.]
Nov. 26-29. 1168. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Request of John Millward for certain raw silk. George Ball and his books of accounts and letters, and in particular his book concerning the eighth voyage. Proposition for contribution to poor ministers. The spices given towards Christide "unto any great men, honourable benefactors to this Company, or unto any others, as in former times," not to be given this year by reason of the great damages the Company have sustained, "not doubting but all that know the same will take none offence thereat." To deal kindly with Levingstone and Maxwell, "for many good offices already performed and more expected ;" about their brokes. Gratuity to Maxwell. Sir Thos. Smythe to be requested to give a note of the names of the officers about the King's Majesty, and noblemen whose friendship this Company shall continually stand in need of, "for that there are divers petty things to be given them." Sir Clement Edmondes "showed himself somewhat discontent as not respected of this Company answerable to his merits, and in particular for not paying him the fees of his office and place ;" to be paid his fees, and to be "persuaded of the Company's great respect of him, as one whom they have ever found their worthy friend, and to desire the continuance thereof." Committees appointed for the several ships for Surat, now at Deptford, Woodbridge, and Black wall. John Woodall and the surgeon's chests ; all samples to be bought of one apothecary to be named by the Company. The Discovery built at Woodbridge and brought up to Blackwall to be viewed. Nov. 27.-Drugs and samples to be bought of the apothecary appointed by the Company. Forrest and Stavely to be discharged. Thos. Smitheck willing to go to Bantam ; to be treated with. Information that the States and mayors are come over ; committee appointed to attend the consultation and follow the business of the treaty. Debt of Barrett, deceased, to be paid by his son. Allowance to Thos. Marshe and Peter Bowers for ryals. Nov. 29.-Sir Wm. Russell to be called to account for his debt. Request of the Custom House officers about the purchase of pepper ; "they have six pounds upon every ship gratis." Debts of West, Henshaw, and Chamberlain. Suit of Larkin concerning his deceased brother's wages and goods ; to have 100l. in full of all demands. Edward, son of Sir Richard Hopton, entertained a purser's mate. Suit of Elmer Phillips for a purser's place, "but found to be a married man, was not capable of the place." Lawrence Henly entertained a purser's mate. Petition of John Tucker for recompense to himself and others for service against the Portugals, where there was taken, as he says, to the value of 6,000l., of which they were promised a sixth part ; no account of any such goods taken or of any such promise made, therefore rejected with a flat denial. Request of Benjamin Stone for allowance for bloodstones. Letter read from Richard Carmarthen, demanding wages due to his kinsman Capt. Pepwell, deceased. [Twelve pages. Court Bk. V. 229-240.]
1620, Nov., to 1621, Nov. 1169. Names of English and Dutch shipping employed in the siege of Bantam from November 1620 to the following November ; also names and tonnage of the English shipping at Manilla, Amboyna, and Goa ; with mem. of a proposition concerning the besieging of Bantam afresh, but that to the 5 January 1621(-2) there was no mention of any ships sent by the Dutch, nor any protest against our people there. [One page, O.C., Vol. VII., No. 906.]