" Before beginning to build " he says, " 'Twill above all things be necessary to select a well located spot, either on some river'or bay, suitable for the settlement of a village or hamlet. This is previously properly surveyed and divided into lots, with good streets according to the situation of the place. This hamlet can be fenced all round with high palisades, or long boards, and closed with gates." * * " Outside the village or hamlet, other land must be laid out which can in general be fenced and prepared at the most trifling expense."

" In a Colonic each farmer has to be provided by his landlord with at least one yoke of oxen or with two mares in their stead, two cows, one or two sows for the purpose of increase, the use of the farm, and the support of his family." * * " And as it is found by experience in New Netherland that farmers can with difficulty obtain from the soil enough to provide themselves with necessary victuals and support, those who propose planting colonies must supply their farmers and families with necessary food for at least two or three years, if not altogether, it must be done at least in part." Then the proprietor had to furnish mechanics of all kinds, carpenters, smiths, wheelwrights, millers, and boat builders, and if possible a doctor, and a clergyman or school master. In this document, there are descriptions of a few regions in New Netherland which he mentions as well adapted for settlement and among them, that of the eastern and northern part of West Chester county comprising the subsequent Manors of Cortlandt, the upper part of Philipsburgh, and lands immediately adjacent to them and the Manors of Scarsdale and Pelham. The region is thus mentioned, " The country on the East River between Greenwich and the Island Manhattans is for the most part covered with trees, but yet flat and suitable land, with numerous streams and vallies, right good soil for grain, together with fresh hay and meadow lands.