We most humbly request Your High Mightinesses, therefore, to be pleased to take these untoward circumstances into such consideration as the constitution of the Company for the welfare of this State most seriously demands. High and Mighty Lords, let not the good and willing stockholders who have contributed such large subscriptions for the advancement of the prosperity of this State, and have already provisionally adopted an eflectual and advantageous resolution with the East India Company; let tiiem not be discouraged or dismayed in contributing to such a beneficial work as the combination of these two notable Companies would prove for this State. The vigorous

142 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. continuance of the Company's maritime affairs, and at least of its daily occurring disbursements here, would contribute a little to that [prosperity]; and with an immediate grant of about a million, it can be placed in good, prosperous and profitable condition. We also respectfully request you, High and Mighty, to be pleased to receive further information from our Deputies, who will High Mightinesses, and therein to vouchsafe them favorable present this to your audience and full Thereupon awaiting your High Mightinesses' favorable resolution, credit.

which is most necessary, we shall meanwhile. High and Mighty Lords, pray God for the continual success of your High Mightinesses' prosperous government. Your High Mightinesses most humble Servants, The Directors of the West India Company at Amsterdam, Amsterdam, this 23 April, 1644. (Signed) Jacob Hamel. Received 27"' April, 1G44. Marcus de Vogelaer.

Resolution of the States General, referring the preceding Letter.