"Arendt van Curler was one of those characters who deserve to live in history. His influence among the Indians was unlimited, and in honor of his memory these tribes addressed all succeeding governors of New York by the name of - Corlear." He possessed feelings of the purest humanity and actively exerted his influence in rescuing from the savages such Christians as had the misfortune to fall into their hands, of whose danger he might receive timely notice. On his marriage with Antonia Slaghboom, the widow of Jonas Bronck, he visited Holland, and on his return moved to the Flatts above Albany where he had a

^ Alb. Rec. i" Alb. Rec.

c O'Callaghan's Hist- N. Y. 464.

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282 HISTORY OF THE

farm. He was proprietor of a brewery in Beverwyck, in 1661. Being a cousin of the Van Rensselaers he had considerable influence in the colony, where he was a magistrate to the time of his decease. He was one of the leaders in the settlement of Schenectady in 1661-2, and in the surrender of New Netherlands was especially sent for by Governor Nicoll to be consulted on Indian affairs and the interests of the country generally.

He was highly respected by the governors of Canada, and the regard entertained for him by Monsieur de Tracy, viceroy of that country, will be best judged of by the following extract of a letter which that high personage addressed him, dated Quebec, 30th April, 1667.

" 'If you find it agreeable to come hither this summer, as you have caused me to hope, you will be most welcome, and entertained to the utmost of my ability, as 1 have great esteem for you, though 1 have not a personal acquaintance with you. Believe this truth, and that I am, sir, your affectionate and assured servant. . ./ _ ■;