I having been tenderly bred from my cradle, and now antient and weakly, and at this time, and ever since I came into this unwholesome place, I have been very ill, and lame with pains in my back, hip and joints, and I doubt not, in a few days, will perdite (endanger or destroy) my life, if not prevented by removal or release, will hope of your honor's gracious admittance and reception, and craving these my poor humble requests and prayers to God for your honor, I remain your lordship, at your pleasure,

Richard Mills. From the gaol in Fort Amsterdam, 16 May, 1663.=

a Dunlap'a Hist. N. Y. vol. i. 113. b Dunlaps's Hist. N. Y. vol. i. 113. « Alb. Rec. vol. xxi.

168 ' , HISTORY OF THE

Alarmed at the sii nmary manner in which the director had treated their leader, we find the inhabitants of AVestchcster hastening to nominate officers for tiie ensuing year.

Loving P"'riends,

Out of your nominations this day presented, we have made choice, as you may know by these presents, of

Robert Huestis, John Barker, Nicolas Bayley. The which we for the year following, doe confirm for magistrates of the towne, called East-towne, requiring all and every one whom these may concerne, to esteem them as our elected and confirmed magistrates for the said town ; so, after my love, I shall rest,

Your loving friend and Governor Amsterdam, N. N., P. S'ruvvESANT.a

24 May, 1663.

The humble petition of Richard Mills, to tlie Hon. High Couit of the Manhattas, held 9th of June, 1663, sho;veth :