The first step in this direction was the chartering of the West India Company by the States General of the United Netherlands on the third of June 1621. Such an organization as an armed military trading company to Africa and Virginia, was suggested by William Usselinx, a merchant of Antwerp, in 16uG, as a means of aiding the Government in the war with Spain, then raging. Some preliminary measures were taken, but before any practicable ones could be adopted, the truce of 1609 was agreed upon for the term of twelve years, and the scheme fell to the ground.

The charter of 1621 was not put into immediate operation, but was held for further consideration and discussion, during the next two years. Finally the interests of all parties were harmonized, certain amplifications and amendments were fully agreed upon, and were embodied in an "ordinance" of the States-General, which pas-^ed the seals on the 21st of June 1623, containing twelve "Articles," and which closes in these words: --

" We having examined and considered the aforesaid articles, and being desirous to promote unity and concord between the directors and principal adventurers, and the advancement of the West India Company, have with the advice of the Prince of Orange,-' thought fit to agree to, and approve of, and do hereby agree

1 II. N. Y. Hist. Soc. Coll., 2d Series, 326 ; see also I. Brodhead, 51, and note E., p. I'A. - Prince Maurice.

to, and approve thereof, and direct that the same shall be punctually attended to and observed, by the directors, members, and every person concerned therein, in the same manner as if they wore inserted in the charter; because we find them proper for the service of the West India Company." '