The Company might agree that Fort Hope and the Fresh river lands be held as a Manor, on condition that the Flat which extends east from the hill to the river should belong to and remain forever for the use of the house the Hope, as the land already does, having been obtained by lawful purchase and conveyance from the Natives and right owners. In like manner, should the Fresh river happen to fall to the English on the settlement of the Boundary, care ought to be taken that all vessels, whether large or small, should be free to sail up and down said river to Fort Hope and trade there, without let or hindrance or being subject to search or inspection ; also, be free from all tolls and imposts, which it is to be

Vol. I. 69

546 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. apprehended the English would establish, the rather as they have built a stone Redoubt at the mouth of the river; but here it is to be understood, that none other than those vpho would come there commissioned by the Director in New Netherland or by Mess" the Managers from Fatherland, should be exempt from the burdens aforesaid. This is what I have been able to propose for the service of the Hon'''"=, the Company, touching the Boundary. I pray God, that the wished for limits of New Netherland may be once settled, so that trade may improve, and the farmer cultivate his fields with pleasure.

Thus done at the Hague, the last of February, 16-51.'