|
| 1624. Jan. 2–5. |
381. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Capt. Weddell's
desire to have Mr. Willen rather than Mr. Copland for preacher
referred. Messrs. Venn and Stone discharged from underwriting for a
dividend. Motion of Sir William Throckmorton, brother to Lady Dale,
concerning his sister's business; answered that his Majesty having
granted a commission to end the same, it became not this Court to
decline that course, but to attend the issue thereof. Gratification
of 4l. to Thomas Parr, for copying out the examinations in Lady
Dale's business, containing 160 sheets. Bond of Bickford, lately
returned out of the Indies, to be delivered to him. Capt. Weddell
informed the Court that he had mustered 214 men aboard the Great
James, but that the most part of them have no clothes; the ship to
be paid on Thursday next, but none to receive pay except such as
shall have their clothes aboard. On the entreaty of a worthy gentleman, brother to "Lord Aburgayney," the estate of Thos. Bromley,
deceased, late the Company's servant, to be paid to his brother.
Jacob Herewin, a stranger, but a free denizen, to have his freedom,
paying 100 marks fine. Information that the Company's new year's
gifts are well accepted, and that his Majesty had expressed himself
well satisfied with the benefit the kingdom received by the trade of
the East Indies. The committee to conclude with Kerridge concerning his entertainment. Mr. Governor much grieved that Hurte,
a man recommended by him, should give any just cause to be
questioned; he is called in and told of his want of due respect to
Mr. Deputy; ordered that the business be suspended. Mr. Ellham
to attend wholly to the Company's letters to the Indies. Messrs. Venn
and Parkhurst to furnish green and crimson satins to be sent to the
Indies; the best choice of those colours is in the Low Countries. The
cloths ready, and part of the quicksilver. Elephants' teeth and
tapestry to be provided. |
|
Jan. 5.—Oaths taken by the auditors, Ralph Handson, Roger
Gifford, and Thos. Colthurst, to proceed with two pair of books at
once; the Company's debts, rate of interest, price of ryalls, and the
like to be kept secret; and because the work was great, the opinion
was to begin with the second stock, the first being ended in that; Mr.
Eyans, the fourth auditor, to attend on Wednesday to meet the rest of
the auditors. Report of Mr. Deputy that the committee appointed for
that purpose had conferred with Mr. Kerridge, and had come to an
issue, if the Court approved, that he should serve the Company three
years in the Indies for 400l. per annum; 100l. to set him to sea, and
300l. gratification at the end of four years; that he shall deliver 1,000l.
to the Company, for which if he survive four years he shall receive
2,000l., but if he die, only 1,000l.; he shall forbear all private trade
and hinder it in others by all possible means, and shall have the
like commission that the President at Bantam had. After some
conference with Kerridge, the Court ratified the above-recited
agreement, and represented the Company's love and good opinion
towards him, the necessity of his restraining private trade, and the
damage which hath happened to the Company by ripping open bales
and embezzling calicoes, for prevention whereof he was desired to
take care; and it was ordered that a new article be inserted in the
sea commission, to be read once every month, that if any damage
in that kind shall accrue to the Company, the mariners shall give
satisfaction out of their wages. The services recommended to
Mr. Kerridge are that he should settle the trade at Surat, the
business of the Red Sea, the affairs of Ormuz, and the Persian
trade, some of which might perhaps require his presence. Two
months' imprest to be allowed the mariners at the discretion of
Capt. Weddell. The committee to view Messrs. Andrews, Burlamachi,
and Corsellis and Sir Francis Crane's tapestries, and buy "the
best and best cheap." Anthony Varneworthy, propounded for a
factor, to be inquired of further. Sir Humphrey Handford to be
satisfied why the Company gave 6s. the dollar to the widow of
Isaac Steevenson; and to make a report in the business of Capt.
Bonner. Mr. Lord, a preacher, referred to another time. Henry
Bate, lately returned from the Indies, to have his bond cancelled and
his freedom of the Company.
Minutes of a meeting to consider of commodities to be sent to
Surat upon this fleet. It was thought fit to add to the first proportions ten pieces of velvets (mostly crimson), ten suits of tapestry,
also ten chests, and six blocks of tin, and vermillion according to
former years. [Eight pages. Court Minute Bk., VI., pp. 333–341.] |
Jan. 6.
Batavia. |
382. The grievances of the Committee of the English East India
Company delivered to General Peter de Carpentier and the Committee of the Netherland East India Company in the fort of
Batavia, 6 Jan. 1623–4. "We will not censure, but reason moveth
us to conceive that this State doth exasperate both inhabitants and
strangers, Christians and heathen, unto estranged conversations
towards our nation, who being survilely overawed by your displeasure, though they dare not express the same in plain terms, yet do
manifest as much in all their demeanours, and shun both personal
civilities and mutual commerce, unless urgent necessity occasion
either the one or the other"; so that though they seem to have free
trade, no man comes to their house to buy or sell anything that can
be gotten or vended elsewhere. Your restraint of trade either by
threatened force or intolerable exactions, your pretended or rather
sought-for quarrels with the Chinese, to the subversion of that trade,
and your unreasonable imposts in Batavia, approve our residence in
this place to be rather a prison than a place of free trade, and well may
be the forerunner to further mischiefs if not in time prevented; likewise your usurped authority, your worse than heathenish persecution,
in course of pretended justice; your more than uncivil upbraiding
us with the lie in council, are such arguments of danger that both
reason and religion bid us beware and use the most honest and
lawful prevention for the preservation of our employers' estate and our
own safeties. These capital causes, tending to the dishonour of our
nation and the utter ruin of our employers' estates, we have hitherto
with unwonted patience suffered, through the hope that now at last
they would cease, seeing that all material points of difference have
been referred into Europe; but your unjust and disgraceful proceedings on Saturday last, the 3rd January, "in this petty business
for our blacks' housing," pulling down their houses without warning,
and then appointing us a place to build others, and having almost
half finished the same, commanding us to leave off, as though you
made it your pastime to vex us, and put our masters to further
charge, and other such like occasions, admonish us that this is no
place for us to continue to reside in. Therefore our request is that
we may peaceably depart, with all that belongeth to us, so soon as
we may provide some other place of residence; whereunto we
expect your friendly answer, "without accustomed invections."
Endorsed, "Copy of our grievances delivered the Dutch 6 Jan. 1623,
with a request for freedom to depart from Jacatra." [One page and
a half. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1139.] |
Jan. 6.
Batavia. |
383. Another copy of the above. Endorsed, "English protest
against the Dutch, delivered to the General, Peter de Carpentier,
No. 8," and in Bradshaw's hand, "Left by Mr. Tompson by the
Comtee for Foreign Affairs, 4° Feb. 1651–2." [One page and a
half. East Indies, Vol. III., No. 1.] |
| Jan. 7. |
384. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Complaint of
the Generality that some of the committees trust out the Company's
goods over desperately; also of Mrs. Salmon, late wife of Capt.
Bonner, about the payment of money due to her husband and to
the widow of Isaac Stephenson. William Whaley, who had formerly forgotten himself in slighting the Company's gift of 10l. for
his leg lost in their service, acknowledged his fault; said 10l. to be
paid to him. Letter from Mr. Misselden, dated Amsterdam, 13 Dec.
1623, read, requesting a copy of the Company's letter to the
Mayors, concerning the entrance into the present treaty with them,
and relating that the Mayors are to have their meetings in Zealand
for two years next, and it will fall out inconvenient for the treaty,
in respect his occasions require his attendance at Delft in Holland.
It was conceived they shall be forced to use the help of the Lord
Ambassador to procure from the States a commission to some
particular persons to treat with the English Commissioners at Amsterdam, and end if they may; but this motion found impediment.
It was resolved to demand 70,000 ryals for the injuries done in the
Moluccas; and as concerning Jacatra, Misselden fears that the point,
being handled by the Dutch by virtue of their pretended sovereignty, will stand upon the point de jure and not de facto, and
that the Chinese demanding justice of the Dutch, they could not
deny them, and notwithstanding that the English had appealed
from the sentence according to the treaty, yet the Dutch did not
admit thereof, but proceeded to the execution of the sentence:
ordered that the Secretary intreat Sir Henry Marten to draw up a
case in obscure terms, whereupon good advice may be taken both
here and in the Netherlands, that the Company's Commissioners
may be there directed how to proceed. Information from Mr.
Barlow that the Dutch press for security for their pepper to be
brought by the English out of the Indies, according to last year's
treaty, but that the security required is of "such quality as no
prince in Christendom will except unto;" it will therefore be fit
that the English demand for security for the monies due to them,
"all their people here in London, to be bound persons and goods."
Mr. Barlow to advertise the Dutch, that the Company expects that
they should send men authorised to treat concerning said assurance.
Mr. Kerridge informed that if his stay in the Indies be longer than
his covenanted time, his allowance shall be in all respects in proportion. Messrs. Lord, Benson, and Morehouse present their services
as preachers into the Indies, the Court having particular recommendation of Mr. Lord from Dean White, under whom he served
as curate, and from Mr. Shute, and others; entertained him at 60l.
per annum for five years; he is to give bond not to exercise any
private trade, and appointed to preach on Sunday sennight at Great
St. Helen's, and to take for his text, "Have no fellowship with the
works of darkness, but rather reprove them." Complaint again
made of the disorder aboard the ships outward bound; ordered that
those that lie not aboard by night shall not be allowed victuals or
wages. Oath taken by Thomas Eyans as auditor. [Four pages.
Court Minute Book, VI., No. 341–344.] |
Jan. 8.
Surat. |
385. John Facye to the East India Company. Death of Thomas
Read (purser); confused state of his books; he kept all things to
himself, by Charles Wood's counsel. Sends book of wills, inventories of dead men, and some run away at Ormuz. Mr. Billings,
formerly purser of the Whale, is placed purser of the Reformation,
bound for Bantam. Endorsed, "John Facie, purser's mate in the
Reformation." [One page. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1140.] |
Jan. 8/18.
Ispahan. |
386. Extract of letter from Ispahan, delivered by the Bewinthebbers to [Robt.] Barlow at Amsterdom, and by him sent to the
East India Company. That the Portugals came by night with
rowing vessels under the castle of Ormuz, and shortly was the
Reformation and two Moors ships set on fire. The Moors were
wholly burnt, but the fire in the English ship was quenched by the
help of the Netherlanders. She was in the greatest peril, having all
her men sick, to the number of 40; and the Netherlands' ship (the
Huesduna) left her 16 men to bring her to Surat. [Dutch. Half a
page. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1141.] |
| Jan. 8/18. |
387. Translation of the preceding. [Half a page. O.C., Vol. X.,
No. 1142.] |
| Jan. 9–16. |
388. Court Minutes of the East India Company. No man to be
suffered to let his account run out all the year long. In case
Messrs. Misselden and Barlow cannot execute the treaty in Zealand,
the States to be moved by the Lord Ambassador to authorise the
Company there to appoint two commissioners to treat at Amsterdam.
Mr. Barlow to make known to the Dutch that if they stand upon
security for bringing home their pepper they must give the like for
the Company's monies. Request of John Holloway concerning interest. The secretary to attend Sec. Calvert, with the earnest request of the Company, that he will move the King forthwith for
his licence to build forts in the Indies. Capt. Fowkes recommended
by Sir H. Vere, under whom he served in Bohemia, to command in
the Company's intended fort in the Indies; he demanded 150l. per
annum, which the Court thought too great a salary, "neither did
they think it fit to send a captain till they had a fort;" notwithstanding, to prevent others that might perhaps be of less merit, and
yet procure strong recommendation, the Court were content to speak
with him on Monday next. Petition of Phillip Hill, recommended
by his Majesty, for a lieutenant's place. Request of Mr. Clitherowe
that he may send his son Robert into the Indies, under the care of
Mr. Kerridge, upon like terms for his passage as had been granted to
Mr. Towerson's son. John Cappur to draw up the articles between
the Company and Mr. Kerridge. Muster taken by Capts. Weddell
and Clevenger; 190 men aboard the Admiral, and 14 aboard the
Vice-Admiral; to begin to pay imprest on Monday next, and care to
be taken as to the mariners' sureties, for it is said that divers that
are contented to victual aboard, do give out that they will not go
the voyage. Complaint of excessive expense of victuals aboard the
ships outward bound; the pursers to send home their accounts.
The letters for the Indies to be made ready, and Mr. Ellam to
attend at the Courts on the usual days. |
|
Jan. 12.—Motion on behalf of Thomas Wade and the orphans of
Mr. Gelstropp, deceased, concerning their dividends in cloves and
calicoes. The present price of cloves not to be abated. Mr. Decrowe's account concerning the joint stock of the United Company
delivered to the solicitor, for the better defending of the suit with
Decrowe. Offer of Bishop, a jeweller, to sell two rich pearls weighing
18 carats a piece, and other jewels; to be considered, the Court
remembering that good profit had formerly accrued by pearls.
Charge for interest on bills to be taken off. Sir William Garroway
not to be charged with interest due on bills, the Company having
been beholden to him for forbearance of moneys to as great a value.
Examination of the accounts of Edward Pike, deceased; also of his
brother, George Pike, who had also served the Company as a factor
at Surat; to be allowed 4s. per ryal, notwithstanding his brother's
private trade, in regard Edward Pike lost his life in the Company's
affairs. Request of Mr. Lanman, "now ready to proceed with his
books," for the accounts of Edward Seagar and of John Lamprier,
who supplies the place of purser general in John Young's stead.
Report of Mr. Munnes that the Governor is very weak and ill, being
much grieved at a message sent him from Sir Randall Cranfield,
"which was to have his money, or otherwise he would come by it
how he could;" this, Mr. Governor conceived, had relation to Sir
Randall's adventure, but Mr. Munnes understood it of his dividend;
if it be his dividend the warrant is to be forthwith delivered to him.
Complaints concerning the miscarriage of divers at the committee of
the generality for pursers' business. A General Court to be called,
"both to set out the diligence of the committees in point of reformation, and to question the miscarriage of some particular committee."
Order to be given to the factors in India to forbear to use lime for
whiteing of calicoes, which burns the cloth and disgraces the use
thereof, whereas it would be whited in three or four days more in
the open air. Motion of Kerridge on behalf of John Norris as a
writer at Surat; some thought the Company already over charged
with factors, others that the Company hath been ill served by factors
made of mariners, and would be still if able factors were not sent
from hence; resolved that a note of the factors already entertained
be presented to the next Court, when Norris and one Varneworthy
shall both receive answer. |
|
Jan. 14.—Order concerning the sending of Mr. Clitherowe's son to
the Indies. Augustine Spaldinge's wages may supply his adventure
so far as they will go. Concerning Sir Randall Cranfield's message
to the Governor (see above); messenger sent to his house, but found
him not at home. Advice of a parcel of coral sent to Roanne
for the Company's use. Concerning the money claimed by the
widow of Mr. Baffin, late master of the London, deceased in
the Indies, for her husband's estate; the pretence was for 835l.;
ordered by general consent that she shall have 500l. in full of all
demands, provided that Robt. Bourne, who is authorized "thereunto, together with the said late wife of Baffin and her present
husband shall join in a discharge to the Company; also that the
woman, being in years and deaf, had made an unequal choice, and a
man not of the best governed, the Court promised so to work with
the husband that some honest means may be allotted her out of
the same." On the petition of Beversham to ship out his indigo, the
Court wished him to examine his carriage towards them, and then
judge whether he deserved the favour or not; and it must also be
remembered that he let go Ruy Frere, the late general of the Portugal fleet at Ormuz; referred for consideration. Andrew Evans,
formerly master of the Ann, to be master of one of the pinnaces.
Letter read from Mr. Barlow with demands of the Dutch of "many
petty sums" due to them from the Company, amounting to 2,847l.;
answer to be returned that what can be proved to have been received
to the Company's use they will pay. Note read of the names of all
the factors entertained to go in these ships. John Norris entertained
as a writer for seven years. Pruson to see the Company's books in
presence of one of the auditors and Mr. Lanman. Mr. Deputy and
two others to attend Mr. Attorney and Sir John Walter concerning
the business of Ball in the Star Chamber. Mr. Guy, an examiner
in the Star Chamber, to be gratified to the value of 40s. in calicoes.
Capt. Gerrard Fowkes again offers his services to command in the
intended fort in the Indies; resolution to give him 200 marks per
annum; he desires time to consider. Demand of Henry Bate for
303 ryals disbursed in the Bear rejected. Provision of cloth to be
furnished from the Lady Craven, where the best conditioned is to be
had. Offer of three samples of tapestry at 3l. and 4l. the Flemish
ell; too high priced. Gratuities to Messrs. Graves and Coxe, the
keepers of the council chamber door. Motion of Mary Cokayne
about her brother's estate; Messrs. Browne and Bownest to take a
review of the business and report to the Court. |
|
Jan. 16.—Letter received from the directors of the [Dutch] East
India Company dated 5/15 Jan., to be translated against next Court.
Concerning the payment of money from Mrs. Harrison for so much
charged to her late husband's account. Mary Cokayne attended with
"one of the secundaries of the counter," and Mr. Davies, a lawyer, and
desired to be heard; ordered that Mr. Lanman deliver unto them
the truth of the case, and if they be not satisfied therewith, let her
take her course. Mr. Lord, lately entertained to go a preacher, having
given testimony of his sufficiency by a sermon preached at St. Helens,
to have 20l. to buy him books, and two months' pay by way of imprest.
The opinion of Sir Horatio Vere to be asked about Capt. Fowkes.
John Parker, a youth whose father died in the Company's service,
entertained, on Capt. Love's recommendation. Discussion and agreement with Mr. Roe, last master of the Star, to go master in the same
ship at 7l. per month, to take the son of Capt. Parker, deceased in
the Company's service, into his care. Draught articles between the
Company and Mr. Kerridge read, concerning his intended employment at Surat; to have priority of Mr. Rastell; he expects to be the
prime man at Surat, where he wished to settle, and that Mr. Rastell
might go to Ormuz; the Court pressed Kerridge to go for Ormuz
and begin a factory there, who answered Rastell might do the
business in Persia as well as he, for that he for his part is utterly
unacquainted either how to deal with princes or how to treat with
a people whom he understands not, nor they him, and thought a
fitter man than either might be thought upon, and named Methwold;
the Court said they did not expect he should treat with the King of
Persia, for the Governor of Shiraz would suffice, besides the Court
was informed that Capt. Weddel offers to undertake to treat and
to settle the trade of Ormuz, if the Company will allow him but
200l. above covenant, so flexible he holds the Persian and apt to
entertain the English. Kerridge contented to treat with the Governor of Shiraz, and promised his best endeavours for the settling of
the trade, but desired he might be authorized to have priority of
Rastell, which the Court yielded unto, only they desired Kerridge
so to carry it as might give least offence, who also promised that if
Rastell shall refuse to go for Ormuz he will then take the business
and settle it to the best of his skill. "The Court was very careful
to endeavour the settling of Ormuz, and to gain the trade which the
Portugals had formerly in that place, and were of opinion that if
the Company had once estabished a factory there they should have
both silk and other commodities brought thither in barter for Surat
commodities." Kerridge to be careful to send away the ships as he
can get them laden, except where the safety of the fleet is respected,
the stay of the ships being over chargeable to the Company.
Knives, feathers, and strong waters to be sent in these ships. James
Reymond, a boy little of growth but of extraordinary forwardness,
whose father lost his life in the Company's service, to be entertained.
[Nineteen pages. Court Minute Book, VI., pp. 345–365.] |
Jan. 17.
London. |
389. Chamberlain to Carleton. Thinks Sir Robert Sherley with
his Persian wife have come out of the clouds, as he cannot learn
where Sherley has been all this while. Hears his request for an
audience in quality of an ambassador is granted at Newmarket,
because he lies not far off at his sister's, Lady Crofts, "the best
retreat and means he hath here." [Extract from Domestic Corresp.,
Jac. I., Vol. CLVIII., No. 33, Cal., p. 149.] |
| Jan. 17 ? |
390. [The President and Council] to the East India Company.
Advised them at large of the state of their affairs on 15 Dec. last
[1623] by the Royal Exchange and the Elizabeth. Enclose copies of
their protests against the Dutch in Batavia and Amboyna [see ante,
Nos. 364, 377] to be delivered to Governor Speult, and are resolved to
call their people from thence, as formerly advised. Have referred
all their controversies with the Dutch into England, being utterly
hopeless to bring them to any reason here. This pinnace is dispeeded
expressly with advice. The General has been very irresolute
whether to send her or no; but may be, he did it of purpose to prevent us from sending large advices by her that they might complain
first. Their jealousy is such that they dare not trust their letters
with us, "measuring our actions by their own sinister practices." Have
refused to sign the receipts sent to them by the General for spices
and powder, because they are false and unjust. Explanations "so
that the lavish expences, and gifts of the Governor, their exploits
abroad upon particular conquests, their particular buildings brought
upon account of fortification and gallies, tingans, &c., brought to
account, * * * will amount unto twice as much as in equity we
ought to contribute"; and are constrained to pay for their one
third of spices more than the Dutch for their two thirds. Cargo of
the Exchange in pepper and cloth to the value of 72,751 ryals, and
of the Elizabeth in pepper, spices, and tamarinds, to the value of
70,884 ryals. Jesson in the Coaster has gone up the river (of Jambi)
for the rest of the Anne's lading, but of the Bee and Bear he writes
not. Intend to despatch the Anne for England if she arrive in time,
but if it be the middle of March before she can be made ready the
seamen will be very unwilling to go in her, being unprovided of
clothes to keep them warm, and fearful to meet with foul weather
upon our coast. Coarse clothes should be sent to encourage them
to undertake the voyage at any time. Fear the Discovery will
not come fully laden from Acheen, as there are so many Dutch on
the coast of Sumatra. Great want of "stuff" to trim the ships,
especially the Moon, Ruby, Diamond, and Unity. [Two pages,
mutilated and imperfect. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1133.] |
Jan. 17.
Batavia. |
391. Extract of letter from Thomas Brockedon, Henry Hawley,
and John Goninge to the East India Company, with marginal notes
in Italian. The Dutch have delivered a general account of the
charges of the Moluccas, Amboyna, and Banda, which are now sent.
Remarks on the different items. In every particular unreasonable
to allow a certain sum for soldiers and fortifications, but all other
excesses should be rejected; their new buildings in Banda amount to
an excessive sum. Excessive gifts and extraordinaries given without
our knowledge ought all to be overviewed; the expense of the Governor's table and riotous shooting of powder no way tolerable. There
should be a moderation of taxes and rating; and a narrow examination of all the accounts, being so generally full of exactions. The
second year's account amounts to more than the first. Arrival of the
Discovery on the 14th from Sumatra with only 317 bahars of pepper.
Great hope that the Abigail will get her lading. In reference to the
money owing the Company in Pooloroon. The reason Mr. Welden
did not demand the debts owing at the time the Pooloroonese were
attacked was that at the cruel torturing of the Pooloroonese the
Governor Sonck exceedingly urged them to confess whether the
English were not accessory in their pretended treason against the
Hollanders, and knowing the Governor to be his enemy, Welden had
just cause to doubt of his safety, if he should at that time have
given the least occasion of distaste. The Dutch may well make
good said debts, out of the great quantity of gold found amongst
"those miserable people of Pooloroon, whereof the Governor (by
report) had no small share." It will be seen that spices can be
bought better cheap in England than the Dutch offer them here.
Thus "they daily invent one new device or other to heap charge
upon you." [Six pages. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1144.] |
Jan. 17.
Batavia. |
392. Henry Hawley to Thomas Keightley. Refers to letters
sent by the Elizabeth and Exchange which departed the 15th Dec.
His most material cause of writing is to signify the state of
their trade in union with the Dutch. Unless their "potent and
partial" constructions of the agreement of 1619 be rectified in
Europe confusion will follow. Before Batavia the Dutch keep never
less than 20 ships; the Piscadores are fortified with 15 or 16; the Moluccas with six, seven, or eight; and Masulipatam and Pulicat with
more or less. Hath any man reason to conceive that this excessive
charge can be maintained with the trade of three ships? As for
their plantations, the best of their people are Chinese, and their
burghers being such of their own nation as are married with "the
scum sent out of Holland," or with the Indians, prove the worst
neighbours merchants can desire. These things move him to consider
that the greatest of their inconveniences is their union with the Dutch,
for howsoever it seems necessary, first, for security, secondly, for accommodation of trade, and thirdly, for participation in the Moluccas,
&c., these are but delusions. First, they not only live in suspicion
throughout all India, in respect of this confederacy with such notorious tyrants and encroachers, but are every day in danger in their
own persons from their feigned friends. Secondly, it is apparent
that all their agreements "are but as nets to entangle poor knats."
Thirdly, the variety of devices in strange stratagems and strained
governments will make our own Pooloroon prove more available
than all we shall enjoy with the Dutch. Why they have hastened
their resolution to remove from this place. The Dutch "upon every
sleeveless pretence" make whom they list their enemies, and forbid
us from trade with them, as they have done with China, Bantam,
and Ceram, whose people they exasperate with the most barbarous
cruelties. These things must be prevented in Europe, and so ordered
that each may freely pass into all parts of India (the Moluccas, &c.
only excepted). Pooloroon will stand us in good stead for spices,
yet for cloves the Dutch most be agreed with, whose store is far
more than the world can consume, or the Spaniards. It is resolved
against the spring to send a ship to Tanjore and plant a factory
there. If Molucca spices cannot be obtained, trusts some good order
will be taken for replanting in Pooloroon. This foundation being
laid, viz., first, that all parts of India may be free; secondly, that
their projects for fortification and commerce with Bantam may
succeed; thirdly, that Pooloroon may be restored; and lastly, that
Tanjore fail them not, it will follow of necessity that the Dutch
"must change their copy," or the English will sink them in all their
designs. Then it will be necessary that ships of greatest burden pass
to and from England, and only small vessels be kept in India for
expedition. (Postscript.)—The China Ambassadors have been publicly feasted by the General, and they purpose before going, to
commune with them of their willingness of friendly commerce. A
principal point to be handled in Europe, is that peaceable trade be
free for all that are not professed enemies. It is likewise to be
remembered that order and Christian duties in these heathenish parts
should shine as the diadem over all the rest, for which cause a
religious and well-qualified teacher ought not to be neglected, whose
words and works concur. Mr. Wren intends not to stay above one
year. "The Univerity aboundeth with excellent men that want
means, but unless his preaching be in deeds as in doctrine, I wish
rather none, for a dissolute head must needs have a diseased body."
Wishes to be furnished with a prescription of Statutes, Acts, Ordinances, and orders fit for this trade and government. Hears ("and
not improbably") that the Dutch intend some mischievous plot to
ruin them; but will prevent "their longing for opportunity, if the
Devil himself sit not at the stern to pick occasions where none is
offered." Very much mutilated by damp; in parts illegible.
[Seven pages. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1145.] |
| Jan. 19. |
393. Court Minutes of the East India Company. One hundred
cloths to be sent for Ormuz, of stammels, greens, and other light
colours. Browne, master of the Star, having rudely said he would
not lie aboard, is discharged from the Company's service. Complaint
of Capt. Clevenger of the Jonas, that his ship is abridged of the
wonted proportion of cider. Capt. Clevenger, of the Jonas, and
Mr. Swanley, master of the Great James, promised to amend their
fault in not lying aboard their ships; Capt. Weddell and Mr. Johnson
to be warned to receive the like charge at the next Court. Complaint that vagrants thrust themselves aboard the Company's ships
and consume the victuals; ordered that the pursers require the
names of those that eat. Mr. Deputy reported Mr. Attorney General's
readiness to advise and assist the Company in the suits against
George Ball in the Star Chamber and Chancery, as also that both he
and Sir John Walter refused any fee for the same. Nomination of
Messrs. Roe and Roberts in place of Mr. Browne, for master of the
Star; to attend on Monday next. Concerning the estate of Harrison,
late the Company's treasurer. Letter read from Mr. Beversham,
late master of the Lion, wherein he labours to excuse himself of
having given way to the escape of Ruy Frere, prisoner at the taking
of Ormuz, but speaks nothing of bringing in his indigo, &c. Letter
also read from Mr. Barlow that "the Dutch intend to hold the Company hard to it," and that they claim divers petty sums. Mr. Ellam
to require an account current from Barlow for monies and goods
received. Suit of John Holloway renewed, to take off 460l. interest
charged to his account in the first joint stock, for six several reasons;
ordered that he be discharged of said interest. Petition of 21
grocers that divers parcels of pepper underwritten to be shipped out
may be sold in town, for there is a want of pepper to serve the
land; resolved not to give way to it. Mr. Swanley, master of the
Great James, "fairly reprehended for not lying aboard;" "his
answer was mild and full of respect, promising to amend that fault,"
and the Court were content to allow him fresh victuals for his own
table, but would not give way to such immoderate expence as had
been. [Five pages. Court Minute Book, VI., pp. 366–371.] |
| Jan. 20. |
394. Report [of Sir John Coke] to the Duke of Buckingham,
"concerning the spoils and depredations made in the Indies." That
the East India Company is possessed of goods taken from the Portugals at Ormuz and at sea, valued by themselves at 26,000l., and
from the Chinese at 28,000l., besides the golden prize, stuff prize,
date prize, rice prize, 17 pieces of ordnance, and the "chalow junk,"
unvalued; the total cannot be so little as 100,000l. It is argued
that these goods were taken either by piracy from friends or by
reprisal from enemies, and if piratically taken, that both goods and
ships are forfeited to his Grace, and the takers and their estates at
his Majesty's mercy; but that if the goods were lawfully taken by
reprisal, then a tenth is due to his Grace. Reasons against questioning the Company for piracy: that it would dishonour the nation
abroad; be doubtful against so great a Company; tend to the overthrow of the Company and trade; and prejudice his Majesty, who,
besides the main support of his customs, hath by this Company a
considerable strength by sea against any enemy; also in favour of
compounding with the Company for tenths, which it is easier to
obtain, and by encouraging seamen in those parts, may happily expel
the Portugal and get the whole trade of the East into our hands.
Also concerning the consul at Leghorn. [Three pages. East Indies,
Vol. III., No. 2.] |
| Jan. 21–26. |
395. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Choice made
of crimson and other light colour velvets. Motion on behalf of Sir
John Suckling, Comptroller of his Majesty's house, that the money
owing to him from the old stock may make good his arrears to the
second joint stock; after serious dispute on both sides, the Court
considered that he is "a person of a quality," and that a courtesy
done him cannot be lost, and remitted the brokes, provided he forthwith made good his payments, with promise to pay duly hereafter.
Message sent to "a great person" to pay in the arrear of his adventure, who told Mr. Deputy that if there were no remedy he would
pay it, but if he should understand that any other adventurer were
borne withall, of what quality soever, the Company must expect to
hear of it. Letter read from the Dutch East India Company, dated
15 Jan. 1624, that, whereas they are to pay to the English 23,000 ryals,
the assurance formally offered may be accepted, intimating that it
may fall out that those ryals are already paid in the Indies. The
Court took knowledge of no other assurance than Messrs. Croppenbergh, father and son, which is no way equivalent with that required
by the Dutch, and they cannot require less; but if the Dutch think
upon a more reasonable security of their parts, "be it by charterparty or such like," this Company is ready to meet with them in all
friendly performance, and in a reciprocal quality according to the
words of the treaty; Mr. Bownest to speak privately to Mr. Croppenbergh concerning the same. John Ducy to have lodgings at
Blackwall, late in the occupation of Mr. Fotherby. Complaints of
the contents of the beef cask and of the undersized fish. One Cowper,
earnestly recommended by Lord Annand [sic] and Mr. Attorney
General, entertained steward's mate; as also Nicholas Woolley, who
had before refused to go in other condition than factor. Complaint
against David Gelly, purser's mate in the Jonas, for slack attendance
aboard, that he is a Frenchman, married to a jeweller's daughter,
and provides himself with money for private trade; he is to attend
the next Court. |
|
Jan. 23.—Request of Mr. Hopkins, that whereas Lady Dale,
in right of her late husband, owes him 600l., and is for assurance
content to assign to him her adventure in the second joint stock,
the Company would give way thereto; it was answered that they
were to make good their own just pretences against Sir Thos. Dale,
as well upon his stock as otherwise, and may not prejudice their
legal proceedings with Lady Dale; also that the Dutch must be
satisfied for monies taken out of their fort by Sir Thos. Dale.
Request of Thos. Wade and the orphans of Mr. Calthrop concerning
the taking out of their dividends. Ordered that the ships should
hasten and fall down to Gravesend, "for that if the Portugal, as he
is now provoked, should light upon the Company's ships without
this supply, it might be an occasion of great mischief." Francis
Cowper to go aboard the Star and acquaint himself with the work
of steward's mate, and deliver his answer after a week's trial, which
favour was shown him in respect he had been recommended by my
Lord of Annand and Mr. Attorney General. Request of one Fish,
sometime servant in the salting-house at Blackwall, for consideration
for work done several nights and holidays; the Court gave him for
answer that they will allow him nothing, for if he wrought sometimes by night he was oftentimes spared by day. The names of the
Scout and the Spy given to the two new pinnaces built for this
voyage. The secretary forthwith to provide Capt. Weddell's commissions. Motion of Sherrington and partner concerning Mr. Taylor's
debt. Edwin Guy, late purser in the London, to receive his wages,
as Mr. Bownest finds little matter to object against him. |
|
Jan. 16 (26).—As the Star cannot take in all the stores for
Jacatra, the rest to be disposed of in the other ships. Concerning
the desire of Mr. Prusson to see the pursers' books which are kept
by Mr. Munnes, which the auditors refuse to show, save what appertains to cordage, which the Court approved of, and ordered accordingly, provided they be shown in the presence of two auditors and
Mr. Lanman, and that Prusson be not permitted to toss over the
books at his pleasure. Report of Messrs. Style and Venn, that Sir
Horatio Vere speaks much good of Mr. Fowkes, who is propounded
for captain of the fort in the Indies, both for his sufficiency and
good carriage as "a sober, discreet young gentleman, and free from
the vice of drunkening incident to soldiers, only he had never commanded, but been a gentleman of a company;" also that Sir John
Burlacy had seconded Sir Horatio's good testimony, and Col. Ogle
promised to give him such instructions as should make him more
serviceable in his place. The Court rested satisfied upon these
recommendations of the fitness of the man, but respited further
proceedings until Fowkes declared whether he would accept the
Company's offer of 200 marks a year or not. Examination of Mr.
Thornhill and John Walker in reference to the complaint of the
smallness of the fish supplied to the Company. David Gelly, who
went out purser's mate in the Dolphin, and returned purser's mate
in the Lion, is questioned whether he hath not married since his
entertainment a jeweller's daughter, and is furnished with money
and goods for private trade; he answered that he had married a
French schoolmaster's daughter, wherein he had committed an error
against the orders of the Company; that his wife's brother was a
poor working jeweller, and that he was neither furnished with
means nor instructions for private trade; with which answers the
Court was satisfied. Report of Messrs. Abdy and Coxe, that they
have given Humphrey Handford full satisfaction of the reasons
inducing the Company to allow Stevenson's widow 6s. per ryal
and Capt. Bonner's widow only 5s., and they think the Company
will hear no more of it. Discussion about the sealing of a release
to Mrs. Harrison in respect of her accounts. The stock of one
Barkham, deceased (which was thought to be Mr. Decrowe's money),
to be detained for satisfaction of the sum of 400l. in difference
between Harrison and Decrowe. Mr. Soane's account of moneys
due to the Company for Buttall Wharf; to be examined. Mr. Wylde,
one of the factors of this fleet, to receive 30l. imprest. The desire
of Mr. Kerridge to go in the Jonas and have the great cabin to
himself, assented to. [Eleven pages and a half. Court Minute
Book, VI., pp. 371–382.] |
| Jan. 27. |
396. Sec. Calvert to [Sec. Conway]. Encloses a petition from
the East India merchants, upon which he requests Conway to ascertain the King's pleasure. Remembers the business very well, having
been one of the commissioners that treated with the States. What
the merchants now desire was then agreed upon. [Extract from
Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CLVIII., No. 51, Cal., p. 153.] |
| Jan. 27. |
397. Sir William Cokayne, Raphe Freman, Nich. Leatt, Morris
Abbott, Hum. Slany, Robt. Bell, Christ. Clitherow, and Rich.
Ven to the Privy Council. Are sorry to observe their displeasure about Capts. Gyles and Pett. Have long since paid Capt.
Gyles two months' entertainment more than his due. Contracted
with Capt. Pett to build two pinnaces for 1,270l.; have paid his
workmen and lent him great sums over and above his contract, and
are ready to account with him, which he rejects. Request, therefore,
reference to the Commissioners of Navy or whoever their Lordships
shall appoint. [Domestic Corresp., Jac. I., Vol. CLVIII., No. 53,
Cal., p. 153.] |
| Jan. 28. |
398. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Desire of Mr.
Semper to take out two half capitals in calicoes, but the book being
shut, for so small a quantity the Court will not open it. Complaint
that some that took calicoes to ship out sell them in town. The
Court, observing that Mr. Beversham, late master of the Lion,
absents himself and slights the Company, resolved to procure a
warrant from the Lords of the Council to fetch him, and question
him as well for his breach of order as for the escape of Ruy Frere.
David Gelly, purser's mate in the Jonas, not to go further than
Surat, for that having married a jeweller's daughter, the Company
are jealous lest he should fall to private trade. In reference to the
employment of Capt. Fowkes; he is called in and after discussion
entertained as captain in their intended fort at 200 marks per annum,
to begin at Midsummer next and to forbear private trade, but it was
resolved not to send him until their next despatch for Jacatra.
Request of Mr. Chamberlain to have 20 barrels of indigo to ship for
France; the Court, hopeful that the whole trade of indigo for France
might be drawn this way, were of opinion that they might pleasure
him. Henry Wheatley thought upon to supply the place of purser
in the Great James, Thos. Thornborough, by some visitation of
sickness, being unable to do service. Request of Thomas Bostock
that he may continue tenant for certain lands at Deptford, at the
rate of 40s. per acre, his ancestors having held it for 60 years: the
Company contented that he should hold it from year to year at that
rent. Claim of Dr. Page to certain tithes from the Company for
lands in Deptford. The Court retaining "a worthy memory" of
Mr. Harrison, late treasurer of the Company, ordered that Mrs. Harrison shall receive a quietus est and full discharge from the Company.
Petition of the gunners of the Jonas, Star, and Eagle that they are
denied each of them a servant, as in former voyages, but have boys
thrust upon them; resolved that these boys be sent as the gunners'
apprentices. Request of Mr. Lord, the preacher, to be allowed a boy
to attend him the voyage; was told he might make choice of sundry
boys already shipped, whom he shall find apparelled to his hand,
and when he came in the country he may take liking of some Indian
boy, as others of his profession have done before him, with which
answer he rested satisfied. [Five pages. Court Minute Bk., VI.,
pp. 382–387.] |
Jan. 28.
Batavia. |
399. John Goninge and Joseph Cockram, in the name of the
President and Council, to General Pieter de Carpentier and Council,
in answer to their acts of the 14/24th and 16/26th inst. In reference to
the sums that the Pooloroonese were indebted to them during the
time of Robt. Haies, as proved by the books of John Cartwright,
factor, and the reasons said debts were not demanded at the time
the Pooloroonese were apprehended and imprisoned, as Richard
Welden and others have alledged; that having intelligence that the
Pooloroonese were often mainly urged "upon the torture" to confess
whether the English were not accessory to their pretended treason,
it put them in no little fear; for if they should have accused the
English, there had been as little favour to be expected as others, by
woeful experience, have found at Amboyna, "so that they attributed
their deliverance to the great mercy of God, by giving such constancy
to those miserable people, being otherwise impossible for flesh and
blood to suffer such torments rather than to accuse the innocent."
May not accept the "trifle" of spices they offer in satisfaction of
the Governor's riotous expense of powder in Banda, except provisionally. Cannot sufficiently marvel that Governor Speult should
now bring in new charges, never thought of in the time of [Geo.]
Muschamp, for they never heard of the pinnaces Arnhem and Surat,
and believe said charges to be inventions of the Governor's. The
English required to join in the charge, but denied to participate in
the profit. Conjunction upon terms of such inequality altogether
unfit, but these matters already referred into Europe. Know not what
they mean by pernicious attempts, misdemeanors, insolencies, &c., or
that they had ever cause to forewarn their people, much less to
"judge, to whip, to seize, to distrain, to confiscate, to torture, and to
execute his Majesty's subjects of Great Britain as your own vassals."
Suppose that the tractate which authorised us to cut timber to
"build * * * did also intend that our people should live in houses.
Room is not so scant in the vast fields of Batavia that of necessity we
must lodge our slaves in our own chambers. Neither are our blacks
more dangerous than those other multitudes of the same rank, that
scarce have a knife to offend. But it seems your eye is upon every
occasion that may disaccommodate us, and you will play at small
game rather than sit out." These unkindnesses presaging more
dangerous consequences, persuade us to remove from hence, and have
thought good in friendly manner to give notice thereof. Remark
upon the 24th, 3rd, and 27th articles of the tractate concerning
fortifications as contradictory. It were far better to shake hands in
time than to [continue their braw]lings to the shame of themselves,
their countries, and the religion they [profess]. [Three pages and a
quarter. Mutilated by damp; in parts illegible. O.C., Vol. X.,
No. 1146.] |
| Jan. 28 ? |
400. "List of all the writings sent in this packet from Jacatra,"
viz.:—Copy of general letter sent in the Exchange and Elizabeth.
General account of the Moluccas, &c., in Dutch. Copy of grievances
delivered the Dutch the 6th Jan. Acts in Dutch of 14/24 and 16/26 Jany.
Protests delivered the Dutch in Batavia, 12 Dec. 1623; against
Governor Speult, sent to Amboyna per the Amsterdam; and against
the Dutch in Jambi. Letter directed to the Governor and Council.
Particular letters to Thomas Keightley and to the honourable Company. [Half a page. O.C., Vol. X., No. 1147.] |
Jan. 30.
Newmarket. |
401. Sec. Conway to the East India Company. Requires their
advice on an offer from the King of Persia for free trade, brought to
his Majesty by Sir Robt. Sherley, whose expenses must be defrayed.
[Minute. Conway's Letter Bk., p. 104, Cal., p. 155.] |
Jan. 30.
Newmarket. |
402. Sec. Conway to Lord Treasurer Middlesex. Acquaints him
with his letters to the East India and Turkey Companies, and requests him to consult with the merchants thereon. Concerning the
defraying of Sir Robert Sherley's expenses. [Minute. Conway's
Letter Bk., p. 105, Cal., p. 155.] |
| Jan. 30. |
403. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Request of
Allen Colly, purser's mate of the James, for the place of purser,
having understood that Thos. Thornborough is visited with sickness.
Application of Mr. Soane, "the city's farmer of Buttall wharf,"
for consideration of his pains taken in the collection of the Company's rents. Henry Wheatley, mate in the Jonas, chosen to go
purser in the Great James; Capt. Weddall prayed earnestly that
Wheatley might be continued mate as before, but it being the
general opinion that "he is a spirit more than ordinary," the Court
conceived he is the fitter to make a purser, "who, if he be a milksop,
will be subject to continual abuse." He was called in and admonished, but the Court was "content to wink at his errors in his
last return," out of a hope that by his future diligence he will redeem
what is past. The power of the pursers taken into consideration, and
ordered that all the masters and pursers be at Court on Monday next.
The excessive expence of the Company's wine and powder discussed;
which the Court utterly misliked, and gave orders to forbear in
future; only it was left to the discretion of masters to do honour to
strangers of quality. Here it was remembered that the Ann, meeting Capt. Pring in the main and near no land, shot off 135 pieces;
resolved to give masters and gunners particular charge to refrain
that excess. The Great James drawing much water, and being now
deeply laden is to be carried to Tilbury. Motion of Capt. Weddall for
150l. due to him by bond from Capt. Hall. Request of Messrs.
Langham and Sherrington for 60l. for interest on account of Francis
Taylor's adventure in the first joint stock. Suit of John Holloway
in reference to his bills; Sir John Wild and Mr. Town Clerk to be
made acquainted therewith. Concerning an order in Chancery in a
cause between William Palmer, plaintiff, and John Garrett and Francis
Waldoe, defendants, about an adventure in this Company. The coral
expected at Dover to be sent in the ships. [Four pages and a
half. Court Minute Book, VI., pp. 387–392.] |
