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Feb. 1.
Ahmedabad. |
396. Joseph Hopkinson to John Banggam. Is sorry for the trouble he has had through the treachery of his broker, but knows not how to remedy it; he must have patience, though not for long-Understands the President intends wholly to dissolve that tedious
Court attendance, and to send up Clement about a month hence for Agra, but knows not whether he is to precede Banggam. Ralph Cartwright is to accompany him, and Offley to come down, whose proceedings are so hardly thought of that he has need of a very substantial apology for himself. Has sent him his brother Nicolas Banggam's letter with others by the broker at Agra. The dealings of Aseph Khan like a false villain give small encouragement. Has some hope of sale of the goods arrived in these ships, and what are not sold will be sent up by Clement. Begs him to take account of what is delivered to John Goodwin, and to put it off for any reasonable price, and what Goodwin cannot pay for, to take a note of his hand for mortality's sake. If he does not put off Banggam's brother's things, intends to send them by Clement. Thought to have sent them by Emanuel de Paiva, but imagined he would be at Agra, and De Paiva went direct for Lahore. Wishes to be commended very kindly to De Paiva and the Padre Signor Eduardo, Sebastian and Rodrigo; there was a great deal of love amongst them. Endorsed, "These to be delivered at the King's laskar or elsewhere. I pray give the bearer l rup." Received 4th March 1626–7. 1¼ pp. [O.C., Vol. XI., No. 1252.] |
Feb. 2.
Whitehall. |
397. Minute of a letter from Sec. Conway to the East India merchants. Not to suffer their ships to depart without taking in Sir Robert Sherley. [Dom., Chas. I., Conway's Letter Book, p. 261, Cal., p. 44.] |
| Feb. 5. |
398. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Concerning Bownest's detained warrant for pepper because of his debt of 200l. White wine to be provided for the Mary and the Star, also provision of beef at 4l. per hogshead and powder for the Aletheia and the other ships. Resolved that within a few days the drum be beaten up about Ratcliff, Limehouse, and other places according to custom. Ordered upon Capt. Hall's request that he receive three months imprest towards his setting to sea, and his wife three months' pay per annum during his absence. Resolved not to deliver any money beforehand to Withers for the cloth bought by the Persian merchant. On motion of Withers, the merchant's account to be made up so that Sir Robert Sherley might "firm" it before his going. Crispine Blackden entertained for seven years at a salary of 20l., rising 10l. to 40l. a year, and 10l. to furnish him to sea. Complaint of Scudamore relating to the injury done him by Mr. Long concerning his brother's estate, he having been imprisoned upon a Ne exeat regno, and desiring to be bailed in regard what he had done was for the Company's service. Petition of Henry Wheatley, "remonstrating" his good service in two several voyages, lamenting his misfortune to be sued on coming home, desiring to receive certain debts due to him, and freely submitting to the Company without further suit; was told that in his answer to the Company's bill he had not particularly expressed the goods of private men brought home, which he was required to certify in a more perfect answer, and then his motion would be further considered; meantime he was blamed for bringing home indigo and other goods and selling them on shore,
which had given occasion to the generality to report that 60 tons of private trade were landed at Portsmouth. At the desire of Capt. Hall on behalf of Capt. Goodall and the opinion of Capt. Bickley, two or four pieces of ordnance more than her proportion of 36 to be furnished to the Hart. Payment ordered of the debts and wages due on Capt. Bickley's account, also of 200l. to Capt. Swann, the determination of the differences between him and the Company deferred. Request of Capt. Walker concerning the estate of the children of John Hodges. Petition of Marie Clarie, administratrix of the estate of Francis Lane, late gunner's mate of the Great James, to receive his estate for payment of his debts and education of his son Humphrey, whom she kept; resolved to detain 20l., given to the boy for his good, and to pay the rest to petitioner, who came recommended by Mr. Ferris, his Majesty's master cook. Petition of Nicholas Jerrard touching the payment of his debt. The business of Francis Pinder, late master of the Falcon, deferred till Friday, as also that of Robert Young, factor from Surat. 9 pp. [Ot. Min. Bk. IX. 377–385.] |
Feb. 6.
Jacatra. |
399. President Hawley and Richard Bixe, George Muschampe, and Richard Steele of the Council, to the East India Company. Japan is extremely cold in winter, and has no garments but silks bombasted. Coarse English cloth of 17l. or 18l. are here sold for 62l. 10s., and sent to Japan sell there for 125l. ready silver. Cloth is sold retail at Japan at 12l. 10s. the fathom, ready silver. The Dutch and Portugals carry much cloth to Japan and sell it at very dear rates. Many hundred thousand cloths will vent in Japan. All are not agreed as to the quantity, but the President engages his reputation and estate until this advice be found true, which if they should neglect they would neglect their duties to God and their country. English cloth much esteemed, and none but great personages can obtain it; they are furnished only with trumpery not worthy the name of English cloth. Cloths of 18l., 24l., and 28l., white, some finer cannot do amiss. The best experienced of "these people" proportion yearly 20,000 cloths to be very small matter for the hopeful trade of Japan, yet as it is in the infancy a less quantity is fair, but under 10,000 they wish not to be sent, which they know is a large sum and difficult to provide. To conclude, Japan promises so many blessings to their commonwealth that should they not with their best skill express its hopes, never could they die in peace. "The Hollanders abound with malice even to wound themselves if they may hurt us, but otherwise sufficient merchants, not letting anything fall to the ground for want of vigilancy, as we have done to shame ourselves and our nation with neglects and ignorance." Japan is cold, the people rich, their clothing bad and supplied by enemies; our clothing good, and our access acceptable. They affect novelties and stumble at no price for thiugs pleasing; our cloths as a novelty are accepted, and base cloth sold dearer than the best may be afforded. The East India trade amply maintained and well managed to Japan, China, and other parts of India would be better to this Kingdom and of more consequence than the West India is to
the King of Spain in its best prime. "If we had to give our factors their hands full and our passaunt ships their bellies full, exorbitant private trade might be voided" Extracts.-The original, which is not among the State Papers or East India Records, was received 4th September 1627, by the ships London and Reformation. On same sheet are also extracts of other letters dated 18 July 1627, 4 January, 17 February, and 14 April, 1628. 1 p. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No. 27.] |
Feb. 6.
Surat. |
400. President Tho. Kerridge and Richard Wylde, and G. Page, of the Council, to John Banggam, in Lahore. Since their last of 23rd December have written to Agra and sent him a copy by Offley. Have received his of the 30th November from Offley. Observe his access to the King and principal officers, and delivery of their letters, which was to shorten Seed Alee Cazee's arm from reaching unto aught concerning him. The King's displeasure against Mahomet Khan most men believe will not continue, he having been his ancient and indeed most faithful servant; he is now in Guzerat, about Nagar Jaloure, with a good force of resolute "Rajbootts," yet attempted not Ratanpoor Castle or any other place, but lives very peacefully, though he has exchanged letters with Sultan Chorome, who will not trust him, but on his approach was in great fear and fitted himself to have fled further into Deccan, whither he is returned from Tutta, whereby it is conceived that the King's displeasure is not so "asper" but that his easy nature will soon be reconciled, though Mahomet Khan's enemies have prevailed in the execution and disgrace of his friends. Sheryares great advancement extenuates the hope of Chorome's well willers, who on the death of Parveis sent him presents and petitions offering their service in assurance of his sudden advancement, which is not now likely, that potent Queen's interest being greater in her own issue than in her brother's, either of whom in the end will prove fatal to the other. It is their greatest grief that the Company are still losers by these contentions, which must induce him to be very sudden in recovering moneys, and not leave goods in their cercares unagreed for. Mahomet Khan has ever been held generous, and in time of his disgrace would soonest have given satisfaction for the gold lace of returned it, if Banggam had gone to him, which he might safely have done if he had preacquainted Aseph Khan with the cause; his course now for its recovery must be by petition with a letter to his Tavildareby some trusty messenger. His reasons for seldom writing satisfy them who know the delays and tedious soliciting of that court, from which, seeing it produces not profit on the commodities sent, nor benefit otherwise to bear so great a charge, they must withhold supplies; for their just suits find so cold and uncertain relief that their masters had better omit what is past than thus fruitlessly continue to solicit restitution; find it better to reconcile grievances at Surat by yielding somewhat, for the King's firmans are only a glorious show without other effect than the Governor's verbal observance. His petty sales need not particular reply. Mirmoosa's return of two broadcloths represents sufficiently
his baseness, and Mocrob Khan's dealing is little better. The Company lose much more than can be gained through want of return and employment of the proceeds. Aseph Khan is niggard enough, and makes more use of them than any man else, yet feeds him as he hath others heretofore, with words only, with whom and the Queen they hope he will ere this have ended for all the gold lace and satins; and after sale of what is in the country, if the Company will be advised by them, will seek their commodities elsewhere. Perceive he was constrained to refuse Offley's bill of 5,000 rupees, and knows not how Offley has employed what he has received, not having received any invoice, though two caphilas of saltpetre and other goods have come down. Expect Offley with the third, who never advised of any trouble in Byana. Indigo is so unreasonably improved that they dislike not Robert Tottel's investment in Samana though contradicted in the company's letter. He rightly observes that Mahomet Khan's perwannas are of no force, and except Aseph Khan shows better effects of love, his will be to as little purpose, whose injustice forced from them as well the 4,000 rupees restored to Mafuz as the 10,000 most wrongfully extorted by the Scinde men; he will perhaps be ready in that of Herpaxad his son, who being poor can pay nothing, yet must it be endeavoured. Jadoe has played the villain in all; instructions to get the money due, that either in his life or death the Company may have satisfaction. Like well the vent of his cloth into the Queen's cercare, though at so base a price that the slow vent causes them to repent having landed any cloth. He has done very ill if he has acquainted Aseph Khan with their jewels, seeing he knew their purpose long since to dissolve that residence. The jewels they have sent, at Mr. Hopkinson's instance, to Ahmedabad, and have ordered him to accept 10 per cent. profit if no more can be obtained, it being more profitable to sell at Surat 30 per cent. cheaper than at the Court, seeing the King goes for Cashmere, and two years will expire before the proceeds can be used; besides Aseph Khan continually abases the price of their jewels, because none dare buy what he likes. Have endeavoured to sell the satins to the late Governor. Those lately delivered to the Queen's cercare have been already there upwards of two years. Lawns, cambrics, and other European linens are not to be had, nor will they advise for more. Those formerly brought were sold to Aseph Khan for less than a quarter of their prime cost, which none will give. Desire he will not prolong his dispatch of all business at Court, but repair to Agra, where he shall receive what they send, and then go to the court after the King's return from cashmere. Concerning the house at Agra, doubt no neighbour would give 1,000 rupees more for it. Their masters desire not to lay out money in houses where they cannot dispose of them when they would; believing that if the sale be not confirmed by the King's firman, the molestation of future Governors will cost more than a house may be rented at which would serve their worthiest servants. Bribes have often been given in keeping this house at Surat, which the King gave the English, who have spent above 2,000 rupees in its reparation, now to little purpose. It is not to be doubted that the Dutch give
them all the molestation they can, whose industry in their affairs exceeds their own, and requires all men's best abilities to prevent them. Vapore's affirmation to the Venetians that the English shall bring no more cloves is not unlikely; are uncertain what their people are able to do southwards. Expected his accounts would long etc this have been entered in the Agra accounts; have received none these two years, and insufferable omission, seeing all other factories' accounts are entered in the books balanced in September and sent home last year in the James. This must be reformed, and all factories must give account directly to Surat, that no man may excuse himself by others default. His journal of all sales and disbursements, with particulars of petty charges, must be sent, otherwise he will deservedly incur great blame at home, and the Company will not be able to proportion Sir Francis Crane's share of the expense. Instruction for the sale of his remaining Bulgar[ia] hides, which it is strange the King, Queen, or great mens' cercares will not vend Greatly marvel he has not put off the Governor's emeralds when proffered money; he must sell them for what they will fetch, and advise speedily that bills of exchange may be sent to the Governor, otherwise he will think himself greatly neglected. Their tin and elephants' teeth not worth the prices of those from other parts; have no branches of polished coral, and have sold all the unpolished, with all quicksilver, elephants' teeth, and 10,000 maen of lead; only amber beads of the commodities particularised remain unsold, which are in estimation in all places, and may be sent for Agra; know not what spikenard he means at rupees 10 the maen, but lackchupera is worth at Surat little more than half that price. Have been required to pay custom of the goods shipped for the southwards and Persia, it may with as much reason be demanded for all goods laden and discharged on Swally Sands, which hitherto have been paid at Surat. Are not averse to pay custom provided they pay it but once, but without the King's firman this will be effected with difficulty. A firman was procured last year at the instance of Mr. Young for their restoration to freedom of trade, with other privileges, which seems little effectual, for they have been forced to pay above 2,500 rupees for only saltpetre and sugar, with other sums particularised, to various governors and their servants, so have much cause to complain of those who will not obey the King's firman. At Quirka 230 camels, lading their last caphila, are detained for custom; but the villain that most Vexes them is one Shaum Decie, of Quirka, for he laughs both at them and the firman, and keeps the camels as aforesaid, for whom, if possible, Banggam must procure some penal punishment, and express order for restitution from all the rest, with some more effectual provision for the future; otherwise we will bribe no more to have the King's firman. Indorsed, "Recd. the prime April 1627," &c. 7 pp. O.C., Vol. XI., No. 1250.] |
Feb. 6.
Samana. |
401.Robert Tottell to John Banggam at Lahore. Has received the two bales of carpets and advised how he had invested the rupees 420 for Capt. Kerridge, which money he wishes Banggam to make good in the Company's cash, and he will make it good at
Agra. Thanks him for his kind lines and loving instructions, and wishes it were his fortune to remain with him, as is mentioned in the Council's letter. Endorsed, "Recd the 12th Feby, answered the 25th d°." 1 p. [O.C., Vol. XI., No. 1251.] |
| Feb. 7. |
402. Minute of a letter from Sec. Conway to Sir Morris Abbott. Recommending John White for employment into the East Indies. [Dom. Chas. I., Conway's Letter Book, p. 261, Cal., p. 48.] |
| Feb. 7–13. |
403. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Committee to attend Sir Henry Marten for licensing the book in answer to the Dutch Remonstrance. Ordered that 8l. odd for 50 dozen knives bespoken by the Persian merchant in his lifetime and acknowledged by his son be paid. The preamble concerning Delinquents to be subscribed by Sir Ant. Archer and Sir Tho. Hardres at their request. Request of Benjamin Stone, a cutler, questioned in Chancery for buying goods of private men aboard the Company's ships, that Richard Langford (late purser of the Charles) his pepper and beads be delivered to him, but the weight being 17 cwt. ordered that 40l. freight be first paid by Stone. Suit of Langford for increase of wages for the last voyage in regard he served as purser's mate or purser; gratified with 10l. Mr. Hassall to send the absolute price of his hangings. Petition of Francis Pinder, late master of the Falcon, for his wages; was allowed seven months and no longer, having been displaced by President and Council of Surat for misdemeanors so foul and notorious that he deserved severe punishment rather than any favour. Information that the powder made by Mr. Blythe had been tried by the master gunner of England and found so bad that it must all be new wrought before it could be used; letter forthwith sent to Mr. Blythe commanding his speedy repair to answer this abuse. Complaint of the partiality of the Company's officers in weighing out pepper. Report of Mr. Governor that himself and Committee yesterday morning attended the Lords on summons from Lord Conway, who made known that his Majesty having taken into consideration the Company's petition and reasons, it was nevertheless his express pleasure that the Company without any further expostulation shall in their ships transport Sir Robert Sherley and Sir Dodmore Cotton into Persia, declaring further that, whereas it is alleged in their petition that Sir Robert had written to Persia to seize the Company's goods and factors, he had written to Sir Dodmore, which was read by Sec. Conway, offering to take his oath on the Holy Sacrament that he never did such an act, or had it so much as in his thoughts, especially against persons of his own nation to whom he had formerly done favours and would be ready to continue the same to the utmost of his power. To the first Mr. Governor replied that the Company would submit to his Majesty's command; but for the report of Sir Robert's writing into Persia they had strong presumptions to induce them thereto, not only by words spoken by Sir Dodmore Cotton himself, but by others which Mr. Governor had caused to be written down. Mr. Governor then propounded his Majesty's promise last year so to restrain the authority of Sir Robert and Sir Dodmore that in Persia they might have nothing to do with the Company's goods
and servants; to which their Lordships answered that this request was already performed by an article in Sir Dodmore's instructions, a copy whereof, together with his letter of credence should be given to the Company, and further they would procure his Majesty's letters to the Company's factors to that (effect), and write their own letters to the Commanders of every ship to let them know that Sir Robert and Sir Dodmore were only to go as passengers without any authority in the fleet or the ship in which they are transported, the Company being expected only to convey them and their followers into Persia, where being landed they were to make their own passage into that King's Court. |
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Feb.9.—The care of Nathaniel Cob commended for looking after the cargo of the Great James. The purser of the Hart to leave room for 60 bales of goods; about the wants and defects of the ship. Ordered that Deodatus Staverton, brother and executor to Thomas Staverton, deceased, receive his brother's estate amounting to 21l. Complaint against Edward Seagar for not giving proper attention to the Company's affairs and for being in arrear for moneys received; the Court wished him to be careful or they would think of another for his employment. Report of Boatswain Ingram about the anchor and cable let slip by the Jonas in the Downs. Letter read from Lord Conway on behalf of John White to be entertained in their service, but the Court finding him incapable, being no accountant, wished him to enable himself by the next fleet, when for his Lordship's sake they would put him in some suitable place, and thought fit his Lordship be acquainted with this answer. On information that the Persian merchant had bespoken cloths to be sent to Persia for his own account to the value of 1,500l., whereas the Company had not above 1,100l. in hand, ordered that no more be received than he had money to defray. Ordered that lemon juice be provided, the want of which might endanger the whole fleet, and Woodall, surgeon, much blamed "for not speaking more timely," also that 5l. be paid for the relief of John Ferne, who "by reason of the infection received into his brain by going down into the pump of the Charles had lost the use both of his speech and limbs, intending a further supply to bear his charges to the Bath for his recovery." John Strethay entertained factor for seven years at 30l. per annum for the two first years, and 40l. for the remainder; he left 200l. at 7 per cent. interest in their hands. Request of Robert Johnson that the accounts of his brother Thomas, who died at Mocha, might be cleared, but as there were exceptions against him for pepper wanting laden aboard the Anne, which it was conceived he sold at Mocha, and for some gold found in his custody, he was wished to spare them awhile and they would write to the President at Surat for the accounts. This afternoon appointed to end with mariners concerning their private trade. The objections collected against Robert Young, a factor from Surat, read together with his answers; these answers giving no satisfaction, their further examination was referred to the Auditors. John Willoughby having by petition acknowledged his debt, desired something for his many extraordinary services; but the Court
answered they knew of no. such services, on the contrary he was complained of, and therefore ordered his account to be made up, his debt to be defalked, and the residue paid; he could say nothing concerning the private goods that went in the Anne from Surat southward, but had heard much. Examination of Mr. Cockram concerning his brother's estate, said to be about 2,900l. The Court remembered that he had been an extraordinary great private trader, and that he was accused by Mr. Johnson to have overthrown the Hart's voyage to the Naick's country, yet brought thence 12 bales of fine goods under the Company's mark, from which, at Jacatra, he ripped off the outermost cover and the goods were his own, besides his excessive pride, costly apparel, and many other errors. To which his brother could say little or nothing, but submitted to the Court, whereupon an allowance was agreed to and a general release to be made interchangeably. Ordered that Mr. Swanley, late master of the Great James, receive 200l. on account. Proposition of Mr. Governor that for shortening these long disputes with particular men some general course for all might be thought of; some propounded to confiscate the goods, others (and this was generally approved as the best and safest course) to take a good freight, as, for indigo, 16d. per lb., for calico 28. per book, for pepper 10d. or 12d. per lb., but nothing concluded. Request of Mr. Fletcher for payment of 100 barrels of powder sold by the City to the Company at 5l. per barrel, but it was remembered that the Court of Aldermen refused to sell any, though content to lend 100 barrels to be repaid about the end of March; ordered that the order of the Court of Aldermen be looked out. |
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Feb. 12.—One hundred barrels more of Mr. Evelyn's powder to be procured for this fleet lest Blythe's should fall out as bad as was reported. Thursday appointed for the trial of Blythe's powder and the gunners of the fleet to be present. Concerning the 100 barrels of powder borrowed of the City. Report of Mr. Governor that it was his Majesty's pleasure that Sir Robert Sherley and Sir Dodmore Cotton should take their passage on this fleet and not in a ship to be prepared purposely for them as the Company had offered; that Sir Robert Sherley before the Lords protested his affection to the Company, and that he had been exceedingly wronged, but forgave those that had done it; whereupon some of the Lords desired a reconcilation between him and the Company, and Mr. Governor answered that the Court had no particular difference with Sir Robert, but what they had done was for the good of the Company; that their greatest ship was reserved for their Admiral and factors, the second for the Persian Ambassador because he was a stranger, and the third for Sir Dodmore and Sir Robert; and that for provisions they should have as was allowed for the ship's company, which gave their Lordships satisfaction. Mr. Governor then desired their Lordships favour for his Majesty's letter to the King of Persia that neither Sir Dodmore nor Sir Robert should have any thing to do with the Company's estate or servants in Persia, yet their Lordships inclined to move his Majesty for letters to their factors to that effect, and held meet that a copy of Sir Dodmore's instructions be
delivered to the Company, and letters to the ships to signify that neither Sir Dodmore nor Sir Robert should have command of any thing aboard the ships, but only be transported as passengers; Mr. Sherburne required to procure said letters and copies of instructions. Complaint of Capt. Hall of the want of men, many refusing to go, and therefore moved to be dispatched to the Downs, which was ordered. The Committees to go down on Monday morning to dispatch away the ships, and the Hopewell and Scout on Thursday. Concerning Mr. Skibbo, who was well reported of for honesty and ability; he demanded 500l. per annum expecting a prime place in the Indies, but was answered the Company could not promise him to be President at first, but would make him one of the Council, that Mr. Rastell when President had but 150l., and therefore wished him to think of a more moderate demand. Request of Mr. Cockram to reconsider his business, but the Court confirmed their former act, saying he carried away an estate of 2,000l. and had a better end than Spalding, Ball, Wickham, and others. The proposition for setting a good frieght on private trade thought meet to be passed, but not concluded. Messrs. Brathwaite and Austen, late mates in the Hart, and bound out in her again, having each 3 cwt. of pepper, and having served the Company long, ordered that they have half freight free, and pay 6[sic], per lb. for the rest. Ordered that Capt. Weddell receive 200l. on account of wages. Wm. Birch, carpenter, having put in a second answer, desired an end, but deferred. Nathaniel, son of Richard Wich, deceased, entertained factor for five years at 50l. per annum for the two first years and 100 marks afterwards. |
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Feb. 13. Ordered that Mr. Mountney provide 50 Psalters for every ship with singing Psalms in them. 23½ pp. [Ct. Min. Bk. IX. 386–409.] |
| Feb. ? |
404. Petition of the East India Company to the King. Whereas by Letters Patents of 16th Jan. 1618, liberty was granted to the Company to transport to the East Indies 100,000l. in foreign silver yearly; and whereas by the interruption of trade with Spain they cannot supply themselves with silver as heretofore, pray, in regard they are setting out seven stout ships for the Indies, for liberty to furnish themselves with foreign gold to make up the amount they cannot be supplied with in silver. 1 p. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No. 28.] |
Feb. 13.
Westminster. |
405. Patent to the East India Company. Recites a previous patent, dated 16th Jan. 1618, to said Company, empowering them to transport without custom or subsidy foreign coin or bullion of silver which they had brought into the realm to be coined in the Mint not exceeding 100,000l. in one year. And whereas by the interruption of trade with Spain which his Majesty has lately prohibited, said Governor and Company cannot supply themselves with foreign silver as heretofore and have entreated license for transportation of foreign gold in lieu thereof, His Majesty grants license to said Company in their next voyage to the East Indies to transport without custom, subsidy, or duty foreign gold or bullion
of gold to the value of 30,000l. in lieu of so much silver. And his Majesty stricly charges said Governor and Company not at any time to do hereafter otherwise than is herein limited or presume to carry out any gold or bullion of gold in any of their voyages to the said Indies. [Patent Roll, Chas. I., Pt. 3, No. 4.] |
| Feb. 14–16. |
406. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Request of John Parker, whose son was executed in the Charles at Jacatra, for a copy of the process against him, alleging that Capt. Swann did it of malice; was answered that his son was a lewd disorderly fellow and a mutineer, that there was nothing done but what might be justified by the Company's Letters Patents, and it was not thought meet to deliver the copies desired; that Capt. Swann was neither judge nor one of the jury, and therefore had no power by malice to hurt him who had so misspent his means that nothing was due upon his wages, yet for the father's satisfaction that business was referred to the examination of the Committees of the Counting House. Request of the executor and widow of Andrew Weekes, deceased, for payment of her husband's estate; it was remembered that another wife had pretended a right to it, and both parties being now called in, it appeared that this one had lived with her husband 11 years, in all which time the other wife had made no claim, that she bad had two husbands for which cause they were separated, and much having been alleged on both sides payment was ordered of the estate to the executrix. Letter read from Sir Robert Sherley, offering his best services to the Company, now their differences were settled; was answered that they never had any particular difference with him, but what was done was only for the Company's cause, and for his courteous offer they returned hearty thanks, but having long experienced factors there well acquainted with their business, it was conceived the Company should have no cause to make use of Sir Robert. John Harvie recommended by one Capt. Royden as a good scholar and honest man to serve as minister in this fleet, "the Court upon view of the man answered that they desired to send a graver man, whose good carriage might give good example among their servants, with which answer he departed." Offer of Barbary gold, amongst which were many counterfeit pieces, at 3l. 7s. 0d. per oz., resolved if Mr. Dike would melt it into ingots according to the standard to buy it at the price current. Request of Sir Dodmore Cotton for warrant for himself and Sir Robert Sherley to go aboard the Company's ship to fit their cabins; ordered that Sherburne carry the same and desire the names of the nine agreed upon to attend them, the Court resolving not to carry any more and to know who they carried. Employment of a servant of Sir Adam Newton. All the ropemakers in Thames Street but one commended the cordage bought of Harby. Committee to view the same at Redrithe [sic]. On report of Mr. Acton that all the Company's servants who were sued earnestly desired to submit, ordered that they be warned to Court on Friday next. Motion on behalf of Mr. Stone, cutler, for mitigation of his fine of 40l. denied. Suit of Edmond Wright about time for payment of his pepper. Ordered that the pinnaces Hopewell and
Scout forthwith go down to Gravesend. Committee to go to Black wall to see trial of the powder. Petition of Abraham Gogar certified by Capt. Weddell for wages at 12s. per week. Ordered that the warehouse keepers screen, dry, and clean the wet pepper. Payment of John Salis's wages. |
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Feb. 16.—Request of Sir Edward Altham for letters of recommendation to the President and Council in the Indies in favour of his brother Emanuel Altham, lately entertained; was answered that for his sake his brother was admitted, though the Company had little occasion for the use of a man of his breeding who had never been trained as a merchant, but if hereafter his brother should deserve it the Company would consider the request. Concerning Job Harby's cordage, which was found exceeding strong and good. Complaint of divers merchants with warrants for pepper, that there was no small pepper left so they must take Malabar or none; answered they might be supplied with Malabar at 20d. per lb., or with wet pepper at 17d. Ordered that Capt. Goodall's accounts be cast up, he recommended a Spanish merchant at Southampton for employment as factor. Concerning the cable and anchor taken up in the Downs by the Peter and Andrew, which belonged to the Great James, and was borrowed by Capt. Weddell out of the King's stores at Portsmouth. Letter presented by Sir Dodmore Cotton from Sir Robert Sherley, stating that whereas he had promised before the Lords to write into Persia and justify himself that he had never written any former letters for stay of the Company's goods, he desired the Company would frame such a letter and he would subscribe it; answered that Sir Robert was best able to express his own meaning and phrase, and therefore desired him to be dictator and writer of his own letters. On request of the Persian merchant for delivery of his late father's dagger, a flagon or bottle of silver and 50 knives, it was thought good first to have the Ambassador's allowance. At the desire of Sir Dodmore Cotton he was promised that an invoice and account of the goods sent in the ships now going, as well as those belonging to the King of Persia as to the merchant should be sent to the Company's factors, who would deliver him a copy if he required it, and who would also show him all respect according to the quality of his place, "with which Sir Dodmore seemed to be well satisfied." This meeting appointed to end the business of the private trade brought home this year. Capt. Weddell examined about his private trade and selling goods at Portsmouth. He was blamed for bringing home indigo, one of the Company's chief commodities, but desired the Company to look at his good services and submitted to their censure. Henry Wheatley, purser of the Great James, examined, and ordered to make a better answer to their bill. For a final conclusion it was agreed to take freight for the goods as herein set forth. Ordered that Sir Dodmore Cotton and Sir Robert Sherley have but nine attendants between them; and that Milward pay the Persian Ambassador 200l. towards household expenses. The merchants who complained of want of pepper to have liberty to supply their warrants with the mouldy pepper at 11d. per lb. James Johnson
to have his pepper freight free, but to pay freight for his 40 books of calicoes, and Edward Brooke to pay freight for half of his pepper. Northy to mark bags of pepper at Leadenhall to the sum of 2,400l. Committee to go on Monday to Gravesend to hasten away the ships. 16 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk. IX. 409–425.] |
| Feb. 16. |
407. Warrant to the masters and seniors of Trinity College, Cambridge, requiring them to give order that Henry Goch, B.D., a fellow of their house, whom Sir Dodmore Cotton, his Majesty's Ambassador to the King of Persia, has chosen to go with him as chaplain, may enjoy all the profits, allowances and other benefits appertaining to him during his absence, in as ample manner as has been granted to others on like occasions of service to the state. Endorsed, "To be entered." 1 p. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No., 29.] |
Feb. 18.
Freddhavz. |
408. Robert Tottell to John Banggam. Advised in his last his departure from Samana, hopes he has received the two bills for rupees 500. Wrote also concerning the rupees 420 disbursed for Capt. Kerridge, which if Banggam make good, he will make his factory debtor for rupees 920, if not will deliver his account to Offley. His time was short on his journey and the ways very dangerous. 1 p. [O.C., Vol. XI., No. 1253.] |
| Feb. 19–21. |
409. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Ordered that Capt. Charles Clevenger who came home in the Jonas receive 100l. on account of his wages. Ordered that no man be allowed to underwrite for more pepper, except with the condition of there being any remaining in the cellar. Ordered that the price of indigo be 3s. 8d. per lb. at 5–6 months. Committee to view the surgeons' chests to be sent in this fleet. At the desire of the Persian merchant 40l. on account to be paid to him to buy sea provisions, and his father's dagger set with rubies to be given to him. Request of Jeronimo, the Portugal, for four month's pay to furnish him to sea, granted; and Mr Ellam ordered to take notice of his desire for the Court's recommendation to President Keridge at Surat, concerning the projects he had propounded to the Company. Information that Capt. Clevenger was pressed for his Majesty's service and could not get his release, and that Capt. Weddell to avoid the like, offered his services, the Court desired he would come to the next Court. John Skibboe entertained as factor at 200l. per ann. for five years, and 50l. to set him to sea. Gratuity of 10l. to Robert Wooder, who ever since his entertainment as factor had been employed in the counting house. Edward Scudamore, a factor, to be paid for his expenses about Mr. Long's business. A butt of canary to be provided for the Mary, extraordinary, for the entertainment of the Ambassador when he should come aboard and for consultations. |
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Feb. 21.—Mr. Stone, who paid 50l. for John Parker on his ninth division, in regard there is no Jambi pepper, to have liberty to take out his proportion in Malabar pepper at 20d. per lb. It being observed that the articles on which letters of marque were obtained were very strict, resolved to rest satisfied with the Company's commission under the Great Seal. Ordered that Edward Scudamore and Richard Predis, factors, receive 10l. imprest apiece to furnish
them to sea. Renewed suit of Cocks for the estate of Giles Hobbes, deceased, referred to Committees; also a request of Mr. Johnson, brother and executor of Robert Johnson, factor at Jambi, deceased, concerning his brother's estate, charged with spending 4.643 ryals for three month's housekeeping there and other exorbitant expenses. Eight pieces of tapestry to be bought at 16s. per stick, but if they yield no better profit than the tapestry bought of Corsellis then to pay but 15s. per stick. Ordered that Mary, widow of Christopher Kemball, steward's mate in the Hart, have 6l. 13s. 4d. out of the poor box, her husband being so much indebted she durst not take out letters of administration. Request of John Woolhouse, minister, who came home in the Great James, for mitigation of the freight of his goods; was told that in regard of the precedent the Company could not yet help him, but when he had paid the freight they might then consider him another way. 6 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk. IX. 425–431.] |
Feb. 22.
The Hague. |
410. Dudley Carleton to Dudley Lord Carleton. Catz (an envoy sent from the States to the King) has it in charge to desire a prolongation of the term for the business of Amboyna, because the Governor is not yet come home, who is said to have an autographical letter of Towerson's, by which it should be a most clear case that there was such a treason. [Extract, Holland Corresp.] |
Feb. 23.
Whitehall. |
411. Sir Dodmore Cotton to (Sec. Conway). Presumes once more to trouble his Lordship on behalf of his chaplain, Dr. Goche, both for his grace to the University and for the alteration of his letters to the College, one clause of which may prejudice him very much. He is no ordinary man nor is the journey usual, and he may be very useful to his country in perfecting Cosmography in general and the Sea Chart in particular, and if he himself should fail he may rely on him for cancelling his letters and the safe return of his negotiations. Annexed, |
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Draft of a letter fram the King to the University of Cambridge to create Henry Goche, B.D., Fellow of Trinity College, a Doctor of Divinity, provided that they first take caution of him for performance of all acts and scholastical exercises by statute required for that degree within one year after his return from his Majesty's service abroad. Also, |
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Draft of a letter from the King to the College to give order that Henry Goche, Fellow of their College, may enjoy the profits and privileges of his place in as ample manner during his absence as if he were resident amongst them; and if the place of a senior fall vacant that according to seniority they admit him thereto. Together 2 pp. [Dom., Chas. I., Vol. LIV., No. 76, Cal., p. 64.] |
| Feb. 23–28. |
412. Court Minutes of the East India Company. That Sir William Courteen may purchase the gumlac at 8s. 3d. per cent. Ordered that 6l. 5s. be paid for a hhd. of claret presented to the Ambassador of Persia. Motion of Woolhouse to have the calicoes he brought in his chest freight free, ordered that he first lay down his whole freight and then sue for grace. Request of Sir Simon
Harvey that the divisions in pepper due to Mr. Knowles, Clerk of the Spicery, be brought into the King's Spicery, with promise that it should not be disposed of to any other purpose; but the Court considering that they should infringe the general order for transportation and violate their oaths, resolved not to deliver any pepper on stock, but only to be transported. Complaints read from the Committees at Gravesend that divers provisions were not yet sent down and of the absence of Commanders and Factors; ordered that all things wanting be forthwith dispeeded away. To recommend Mr. Altham to the President and Council at Surat to receive further employment according to his merit. Request of Skibboe, a factor, that his own bond without surety might be accepted, denied. Ordered at Mr. Scudamore's request that 10l. yearly of his wages be paid at home for satisfaction of a debt. Letter read from Dr. Meddus on behalf of Mrs. Newport, desiring relief, she being in the Fleet, and alleging as an inducement her loss by Sir Robert Sherley; answered that the wrong done her by Sir Robert Sherley no way concerned the Company, and a benevolence could not be expected, the Company being poor, yet in regard Capt. Newport had been their ancient servant 5l. was bestowed upon her. Ordered that three mastiffs and an Irish greyhound sent aboard the ships to go to Persia be sent up to London, the Court conceiving they would prove noisome and dangerous by reason of the multitude of men. On receipt of a letter from Mr. Misselden, and therein a letter from the Persian Ambassador in Holland with attestation that he had enclosed another in a packet to Sir Robert Sherley; ordered that the Remembrancer be sent to Sir Robert to demand the letter and desire him to contract his attendants and provisions that the ship be not over pestered with them, and the Secretary was required to make the like request to Sir Dodmore Cotton, the Company being resolved not to carry more than 12 persons to attend both. Ordered that a letter be written to Mr. Barlow to perfect his accounts, when the Company would send him more indigo if he could sell it at 42 stivers ready money. Receipts presented for 150l. paid at several times to the Persian merchants by order from the Earl of Dorset, Lord Conway, and the Court; allowance of same ordered. About the price of indigo, resolved that if Wright and partners take 1,000 barrels they shall have it at 3s. 10d., the indigo expected in the Law Countries being conceived no impediment to that price; motion to set the price at 3s. 8d. for Amsterdam, France, and other places adjoining, left to further consideration. Resolved to give Mr. Corsellis for his three suits of hangings 9s., 208., and 22s. per stick, which if not accepted to send for them away. John Facy's wages, detained at the suit of Thomas Langton, brother and executor to Wm. Langton, deceased, ordered to be paid. |
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Feb. 26.—Information of the scandalous bill exhibited by David Bourne in Chancery against the Company, resolved before they put in their answer to complain at the next General Seal before the Lord Keeper of this scandalous matter, desiring his Lordship not only to order the bill to be taken off the file, but to inflict some punishment upon Bourne and enjoin him to prefer his new bill
directly to the matter in question without scandal, and then the Company will readily answer the same. Mr. Johnson, brother and executor of Robert Johnson, factor, deceased, again desiring an end for the estate of his brother, which came to 700l. besides goods left at Surat as was pretended, the Court remembered the former objections for his wasteful expense of 4643 ryals in housekeeping, bad debts, and buying unvendible commodities, and wished him to accept what was due for wages and stay for the rest until the return of the accounts from Surat; but Mr. Johnson, desirous of a final end, freely submitted and willingly accepted 500l. in full of all demands. Ordered that 1,000 great shot and 10 barrels of powder more be provided for the Hart, at Capt. Goodall's request. The cloths Mr. Withers bought for the Persian merchant to be sent with the first opportunity aboard the ships. Ordered that the copy of his Majesty's instructions to Sir Dodmore Cotton, wherein he is restrained from any authority over the goods of the Company in Persia, be laid up by Mr. Treasurer amongst other writings in the Treasury and be registered in the Court Book. (Copy.) "A clause of Sir Dodmore Cotton's instructions dated the 15th of April (under his Majesty's hand) how to carry himself towards the merchants in his embassage to Persia. And our express will and pleasure is that you do not take upon you any title, power, or employment of a Consul, nor that you do any way intermeddle with the goods of our merchants trading to Persia, but that you follow these instructions without putting any charge, trouble, or inconvenience upon our merchants as you will answer the contrary at your peril. Mr. Carleton's desire to buy 100 barrels of indigo deferred till next Court, when the resolution of the grocers who were in treaty for half the indigo would be known. Mr. Cappur to attend Sir Robert Sherley and be earnest with him for the letters he promised the Lords he would write to the King of Persia and the Company's factors to clear himself of the imputation of writing to that King to seize the Company's (goods) and servants. Report of Mr. Governor that this morning he found the Persian Ambassador very desirous (in acknowledgment of their courtesies) that they would command his service in Persia, desiring a remembrance in writing of anything they thought advantageous to the Company, which he would so recommend to the King as by his powerful mediation to bring it to good effect. To which Mr. Governor answered that on the sudden they could not insist on any particular more than the continuance of their privileges, except it were to be a means to the King to bring down his silk to Shiraz, which would be a very great encouragement to the Company and a great profit to that King. The Ambassador promised his best furtherance therein and in all that concerned the Company, and desired to have the names of all the Committees; ordered that they be written in a fair Roman hand and presented to him. Consideration what was fit to give him as a present at his departure; the general opinion was to bestow a piece of plate, but neither the kind nor value was now resolved upon. The Secretary to attend Mr. Secretary to attend Mr. Secretary Coke and entreat his favour for his Majesty's letter to the King of Persia
in answer to that brought by the Ambassador. Forty shillings bestowed on Gabriel Trayherne, who went out in the Roebuck without wages. Ordered that Nathaniel Wich, factor, go in the Mary. |
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Feb. 28. Concerning warrants for pepper to Mr. Cotton and Richard Midleton. Capt. Bickley to pay freight for all his goods notwithstanding the bad condition of his silk, and if afterwards he sued for grace the Company would consider it. Ordered that the greater ships should go together through the channel towards the Downs, and the two lesser and the Scout over the flats the nearest way to the Downs. Ordered that the men employed aboard the James and Charles for taking down their masts and rigging be allowed bread and beer. To send for Mr. Steevens about the Hart, which "every 24 hours had 24 inches water in hold." On consideration of how the Portugals should be dealt with if any should fall into the Company's hands, some were of opinion to deal with them as Ruy Friero did with the English, some to put the chief officers to death. but the general resolution was to show themselves Englishmen and be merciful to all but Ruy Friero, and show the like cruelty to him as he did to the English; unless any new cruelties had been pursued, when it was left to the Commanders if they should surprise any Portugals in heat of blood either to put them to death, ransom them (if persons of quality) or bring them home prisoners, and for the meaner sort to keep them in irons, make them work, or exchange them. Request of the Persian Ambassador to buy quicksilver at 4s. 6d. per lb., and some fine cloths he had seen at Alderman Lumley's for the Persian King; and as there was yet 230l. of the silk money in the Company's hands it was thought meet to let him have four or five barrels of quicksilver, which would come to 130l., and that a Committee, with some of the Ambassador's people, view said clothes and buy them as "good cheap" as they can. Six months' interest to be allowed for the Persian King's money, which would be received long before the money for tin was due. Certain cloths having been sent aboard by Mr. Withers in a peremptory manner, and resolved not to transport any merchandise but their own, ordered that they be unshipped and sent up to London. Warrant for 60l. to defray the charges for the supper for the Ambassador. Resolved to recommend Jeronimo, the Portugal, to the President and Council (yet cautiously) to consult with him concerning his propositions, especially about the buying of pepper at Cananore, which may prove a business of consequence if there were idle shipping at Surat, and in that case to conceal their resolutions from him till the ships set sail, and then engage his person in the expedition that he might share in the reputation or danger of the action and for any achievement to be enterprised by the way, Capt. Hall to have private instructions, yet not to make any such stay to endanger his seasonable arrival at Surat. Resolved that if the fort, which the Company formerly advised should be erected as a rendezvous for their ships in those parts, were already begun, they should proceed therewith, if not to expect further advice for a new underwriting for another stock; that the factors in Persia should not desist from the design of acquiring Ormuz Castle, as well
to affront the Portugal as to prevent the Dutch, who would labour to get possession thereof by all means possible, the Court conceiving it far better to set foot in a fort already built than to be at a greater charge to erect a new one; and that for Muscat something should be attempted, but whether this or next year was left in suspense, though the letter intercepted from the inhabitants to the Bishop of Goa gave encouragement to an enemy to assail it before repaired and fortified. Resolved to bestow upon the Persian Ambassador a basin and ewer of silver with two flaggon pots to the value of 50l. and also his own picture, which was exactly and curiously drawn by Mr. Greenburie. Contract with Mr. Andrewes for 100 barrels of indigo, to be transported at 38. 8d. per lb., with proviso that the Company send no indigo to the same countries or any part of Germany until 1st. May next; the price for town to be 4s. per lb. Ordered that Thomas Waters be paid 4l. for writing and translating the Dutch Remonstrance and other services. Report of the Governor that Lord Warwick had renewed his old demand for satisfaction for taking his ship at Surat; it could not be denied that there were moneys of his Lordship in the Company's hands, and that in regard he had lately been at great charge in setting forth ships for the West Indies it would now be more acceptable; resolved that Mr. Governor return a fair answer, intimating their former offer of 2,000 marks, and if that would not content his Lordship to nominate two arbitrators and the Company would do the like and so conclude the differences. 17 pp. [Ct. Min. Bk. IX. 431–447.] |
| [February.] |
413. Petition of Lady Teresia Sherley to the Privy Council. The brutish disgrace done to her husband, Count Sherley, Ambassador from the King of Persia, by that barbarous heathen who styles himself likewise Ambassador from that King, considered, and that they are both to embark in one fleet of ships for Persia; the confusion that may happen in the voyage cause the fears of a woman to trouble their Lordships with her petition that a mandamus may be directed to the captains of every ship not to suffer the said two Ambassadors to go on shore together until they arrive at Persia, and that her lord may have at least as much time on shore as the other, who has no women amongt his train. Printed in the Sherley Brothers, p. 95. See 5 March No. 415, also Court Minutes 21 March, No. 424. 1 p. [East Indies, Vol. IV., No. 30.] |
