Whereas we, burghers and inhabitants of New Netherland, previously invited and requested by Willem Kieft, Director General and the Council of New Netherland, and with the consent of all the rest of the inhabitants, our fellow-brethren, have been unanimously elected to answer the proposition of the Hon'"'* Director and Council, and to give our advice according to our best knowledge and understanding; Therefore, three articles were then proposed to us, whereupon we gave answer and expressed ourselves according to the best of our opinions and belief, to which we unanimously refer.

And whereas, the most favorable time and opportunity for our nation now offer, which, according to previous resolution ought to be considered; we, therefore, request the Hon'''* Director, Willem Kieft, to proceed, whereunto we offer our persons to follow him faithfully,

' The Norwalk Islands. ' "to keep their advice secret." New -York Colonial Manuscripts, IV., from which we addthe names in brackets. -- Ed.

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416 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. and it is necessary he himself accompany us to prevent all disorder; the Hon'"'^ Director shall also provide powder, ball, and the provisions necessary I'or the expedition, such as bread and butter, together with a steward, so that everything may be in order, and the rations served and if any one require more than bread and butter, he must provide it himself. Also, if it happen, which may God Almighty please to forbid, that one or more of the freemen be seriously wounded in the expedition, or in the attack on the enemy, the Honble Director and Council shall remain bound, on the part of the Hon'''" West India Company, to support him or them, that they may live comfortably with their families; and to have a simple wound cured at said Company's expense. Ady, 21" January, 1G42, in New Netherland.