GENETALOGV COLLECTION DOCUMENTS I,ATIVE TO THE COLONIAL HISTORY STATE OF NEW-YORK PROCURED IN HOLLAND, ENGLAND AND FRANCE JOHN ROMEYN BRODHEAD, ESQ., AND BY VIETUE OF AN ACT OF THE LEGISLATUKE, ENTITLED "AN ACT TO APPOINT AN AGEKT TO PEOCUP.E AND TEANSCP.IBE DOCUMENTS IN EUROPE RELATIVE TO THE COLONIAL HISTORY OF THE STATE," PASSED MAY 2, 1889. PUBLISHED UNDER AND BY VIRTUE OF AN ACT OP…

D., who was employed for that purpose, and to superintend the publication generally. CORKESPONDENCE. The Legisktnre having recently placed the publication of the Documents collected by you in Europe, relative to the Colonial History of the State of New-York, under the direction of the Regents of the University, I have been instructed by the Committee of the Regents charged with the subject, to r…

Sir: I have received your letter of yesterday, in which, as Chairman of the Committee of the Regents of the University having the subject in charge, you request me to prepare an Introduction to the " Colonial History " of this State -- commonly so called -- to be prefixed to the first volume. The Committee, in making this request, have done me an honor which I highly appreciate, and for which I …

With high regard, I am, Sir, Sincerely yours, JOHN ROMEYN BRODHEAD. John V. L. Pruyn, Esq., &c., &c., &c., Albany. GENERAL INTEODUCTION. The Public Records of the State of New -York are, chiefly, in the office of the Secretary of State at Albany. They are as various in their character as they are voluminous in their extent. Most of them relate to and illustrate the History of the State ; and…

the exception of some entries of lands, the oldest of which is in 1630, none of the records of Director Minuit's administration, from 1626 to 1632, nor of Director Van Twiller's, from 1633 to 1638, have been preserved. The series of papers, however, is tolerably complete during the time of Director Kieft, from 1638 to 1647, and of Director Stuyvesant, from 1647 to 1664. After the surrender of New …

Upon the full organization of the State government the city of Albany became the capital, and the Colonial and Provincial records -- other than those the relating to municipality of the metropolis -- which had formerly been kept New-York, were in removed thither. The pressing concerns of a new and impoverished Commonwealth for a long time prevented much thought being given to those silent and f…

particular." This was the origin of the New -York Historical Society, which, on the 10th day of February, 1809, received a special Act of Incorporation from the Legislature. The members of the Society immediately took steps to accomplish the high purposes of their association, and soon collected a valuable library of printed books and manuscripts. At length the time came when it was thought that t…

of information and talent, and embracing not only the disposition but the ability to promote knowledge, are essentially necessary to crown with success any important undertaking of this nature. With these motives, and for these objects, this society was formed. A liberal and enlightened Legislature, justly appreciating its importance, granted it a ciiarter of incorporation ; and it now only remain…

without public patronage, and without any other excitement than a desire to be useful, as humble contributors to the great stock of human knowledge, we have been able to accomplish so much, what might we not effect if public bounty should be united with individual contribution, and if the countenance of the Legislature should stamp a value upon our researches, and enable us to dispel the clouds wh…

It is well known that many manuscripts are buried in the archives of State, or in the libraries of public bodies, which might be transcribed, and which would shed new light on our history. The Bibliotheca Americana, published in England, imperfect as it is, indicates what invaluable and unexplored treasures for our historians may be obtained in that country. " But we would beg leave to solicit the…

Its state under England, which continued about one hundred and twelve years, and which includes the proprietary government of the Duke of York, and its government under the Kings of Great Britain, excepting about sixteen months, when it was repossessed by the Dutch. "IV. And, lastly, its political existence as a member of an independent government. "Before the lapse of many years, the remnant o…

Many learned, elaborate and interesting works have never been seen in America ; some are so scarce that they cannot be procured without the expense of transcribing; and papers of great moment have never been printed. " The regular minutes of the transactions of the Indian Commissioners for this Colony, from 1675 to 1751, as kept by a secretary employed for the purpose, were bound up in four large …

our counties, and in the ofBce of the Secretary of State to the public offices in the neighboring ; Colonies, with whose governments the Dutch had negotiations ; and to several books published and which are scarcely known to in the Dutch and Latin languages, relative to this country, us. The darkness which hangs over this branch may be perceived in the History of New- York, written by William S…

" The history of our country, since the commencement of the Revolutionary war, is in a better state of preservation ; but even here,how many interesting events are passing into oblivion, how many important facts are distorted and misrepresented, how many illustrious achievements are forgotten or neglected. Documents that may illuminate the obscure, explain the doubtful, and embalm the memories of …

We are influenced by no other motive than that of elevating the character and promoting the prosperity of a community to which we are bound by every tie that is deemed precious and sacred among men. And let it not be said that the exigencies of the times and the pressure of a foreign war render it inexpedient to apply the public bounty to this object. The State is rich in funds, rich in creditand …

Tills memorial of the Historical Society was received with great favor by the Legislature, which, with a liberality that has always belonged to the State of New- York, passed two acts on the 13th and the 15th of April, 1814, recognizing, in the most gratifying manner, the claims of the Institution to the regard of the representatives of the peojile. Public attention was now drawn more distinctly t…

John Van Ness Yates, then Secretary of State, submitted a Report to the Legislature, detailing the steps he had taken in ^ GENERAL INTRODUCTION. carrying their resolution into effect, and containing an interesting and elaborate character of the public records in his synopsis of the several divisions and the specific custody. To this Keport was appended a general Catalogue, I., of the Dutch Colo…

on the one hand, the public archives were known to be defective in many important respects, on the other hand the State should have been supposed to be less rich in historical records than it really was ; and that the attention of those whose minds had long been given to the subject should have been earnestly directed towards the best means of securing and increasing the literary property of the p…

Accordingly, at a meeting of that Society on the 10th of April, 1838, a committee was appointed to solicit from the Legislature an annual grant, out of the income of the United States' Deposit Fund, to defray the expenses of procuring materials in Europe for the illustration of the history of the State. In pursuance of this action, a memorial was presented to the Legislature in behalf of the H…

"And your memorialists represent that they have been advised by those who from official station had unusual opportunities and facilities for making researches, and have learned from other sources on which they can rely, that there are now in the archives and public offices of Holland and England many documents, letters, correspondences and papers, relating to and bearing upon and directly connecte…

" And your memorialists represent that, under a sense of the importance of the trust reposed in them, and deeply solicitous to procure this valuable addition to the materials now under their control, they consider it make known to your honorable body that their their duty to means are inadequate to undertake the expense attendant thereon. And they represent further that, even if they did possess …

Your memorialists entertain the belief, from the fact that such permission has been granted on the application of other States of our Confederacy ; and that an Agent appointed for that purpose by the State of Georgia is now in London, receiving every facility from the Departments of the English government. Xa GENERAL INTRODUCTION. " And your memorialists represent tliat the present is a most favo…

Your memorialists do not believe that there will ever be a more favorable opportunity for renewing their request, and in all probability no such attempt will ever be made by others. " And your memorialists believe that it is worthy the ambition of the Empire State to have under its own control the materials for writing its history. Already, in its rapid increase of population and resources, it sta…

" To the end that the Historian may come to this work with all the advantages which its importance demands, your memorialists pray " That an appropriation be made by your honorable body, at its present session, for the purpose of defraying the expenses of an Agent, to be sent, under the direction of this Society, in the name and by the authority of this State, to ask for and procure from the gove…

" I have the honor to transmit a memorial from the New -York Historical Society, praying for the passage of a law authorizing the appointment of an Agent to visit Europe, to transcribe documents remaining in the public offices of the governments of England and Holland, illustrating the Colonial history of this State. " It would advance the cause of free government throughout the world, and it is d…

This State has certainly not less interest in rescuing and preserving the memorials of her Colonial condition. " I respectfully commend the petition of ' The New-York Historical Society' to the favorable consideration of the Legislature. " WILLIAM H. SEWARD." This message of the Governor and the accompanying memorial of the Historical Society were referred by the House of Assembly to a select co…

" The memorialists constitute the Historical Society of the State of New-York, and were chartered for the important purpose of collecting and preserving documents, papers, evidences, and generally all materials relating to or in any way connected with the history of this State. In discbarge of the duties thus imposed upon them, and in pursuance of the objects thus intrusted by the Legislature to t…

Superadded to this, there has ever existed a great difficulty, if not an impossibility, in obtaining access to the documents, papers, &c., so valuable in illustrating our history, and which, if sought for, have eluded research from the want of that legislative sanction and authority now desired by your memorialists. " Impressed with these considerations, and encouraged by the counsel and inuflence…

And it is also represented, with like truth and force, as your committee believe, that at no period of our history have circumstances been so auspicious for the prosecution and successful issue of their purposes as those presented at this time. Not only are the relations between the governments referred to and our own more intimate and better understood than heretofore, but the increased facilitie…

In the drama of our Colonial and National history, she was, and continues to be, proudly eminent. Her soil, her streams and her people are known to fame. History, faint as it is, reveals her crimsoned plains, her bulwarks of military and naval art, and the chivalry of her sons. The virtues, the heroism and the councils of her citizens were feltand appreciated during the primitive condition of our …

dedication, that 'it was not presented for his Lordship's information,'' as 'all the world knows that the aSiiirs of the British Colonies have been for several years past under his principal direction, and the wisdom of the measures pursued for their prosperity and defence are indisputable arguments of his acquaintance with their condition.' "Thus were the details of our Colonial history, and all…

"During the period from 1609, when our shores were first discovered and our noble river ascended by Henry Hudson, to 1614, and while as a Dutch Colony, up to 1664, and subsequently as an English Colony, from that date to 1776, it was well known that the most intimaterelations existed between the colonists and the mother countries, and that the numerous records, documents and continuous corresponde…

The government of France is presumed to be in possession of documentary papers having reference to the part she took in our Revolutionary struggle, to her subsequent relations to this country, and to ' the French and Indian wars,' which by no means form the least affecting and important portion of our Colonial history. " The military operations of the French in our State, their erection of fortifi…

" It may not be unimportant to add that, while the Colonial history of this State is seen to be thus fraught with local and general interest, it is characterized by the existence of the most singular relics of art, the origin of which has hitherto baffled the inquiries of the philosophic and curious, but which reveal the startling fact that, at a period long antecedent to all knowledge of our ance…

Ingratitude alone must be our apology in failing to cherish the memory and the annals of their history. Nor is it less an obligation to our predecessors, than a duty to posterity, that we encourage the perpetuity of their examples of virtue and of patriotism. " In the execution of the purposes set forth by the memorialists, and commended by the Governor, it is represented that two years should be …

An Agent shall be appointed by the Governor of this State, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to visit England, Holland and France, for the purpose of procuring, if possible, the originals, and if not, copies, of all such documents and papers, in the archives and offices of those governments relating to or in any way affecting the Colonial or other history of this State, as he may d…

and obtain, in Europe, historical documents and papers, which, when procured, were to be added to and form a part of the existing records of the State, at Albany. He was necessarily invested with a large discretion ; he was to procure as much additional material as he could ; and his scope of selection was limited only by the comprehensive restriction to such documents "relating to or in any way a…

Bleecker, attached to the American Legation at the Hague, and was to some extent familiar with the peculiar duty he was expected to perform. In order, however, to avoid what was felt to be the chief inconvenience in the execution of his mission, namely, the procuring of duplicates of documents already in the possession of the State, the Agent spent several weeks in a careful examination of the pri…

" The Legislature of tliis State having on the 2d day of May, 1S39, passed an act for the appointment of an Agent to visit England, Holland and France for the purpose of procuring the originals or copies of such documents and papers, in the archives of those governments, relating to the Colonial and other history of this State as are important to illustrate that history, and you having been duly a…

" The general policy of the European governments towards their transatlantic possessions has been heretofore studied by us chiefly in the acts of their agents here, while its comparative unimportance in the domestic history of those States has caused it to be often overlooked or superficially treated by European historians. It is represented to us that there are now, in the archives and public off…

It is, I presume, chiefly with a view to obtaining authentic evidence concerning this part of our history tiiat you are expected to visit that country. " It would be highly interesting to obtain the originals or copies of the instructions forwarded to the French and English Governors of Canada to learn the views which possessed ; them, of a commercial, military or colonizing character; their exp…

The capture of the city of Albany, under his orders, has found as yet but a few lines on the pages of the historian. " The Dutch records have furnished us with a vast amount of information relating to the Colony while in subordination to the West India Company; but the official reports of Governors Van Twiller, Stuyvesant, Kieft, &c., to the father-land, and the documents which must necessarily h…

" All these, as far as the appropriation will permit, after defraying your necessary expenses and the private charges which will attend you in your various journeys, will become matter of interest to you in your general investigations. <'You are advised to proceed first to Holland, to ascertain what documents and papers require your attention there ; to England, and institute a similar examinatio…

"You will be allowed at the rate of two thousand dollars per annum, payable quarterly, for your compensation, besides your traveling expenses and disbursements for the purposes of your mission. You have already received an advance of fifteen hundred dollars. On rendering accounts for one thousand dollars of that sum, you may draw upon the Comptroller for another sum of one thousand dollars in adva…

He commenced his investigations in the archives at the Hague in the following summer ; and for nearly three years was diligently engaged in prosecuting his labors in the several Record offices of Holland, England and XX GENERAL INTRODUCTION. Trance. It was necessary, in the first place, to procure the official authority from the proper departments of government, without which the documents the …

memoranda which he had been able to make of papers already in possession of the State, the Agent was constantly exposed to the chance of copying duplicates and the more ; so, as he was obliged to make his selections upon a prompt exercise of judgment, and without proper opportunities for comparison. All documents about which there was no doubt were at once selected for transcription ; and, on the…

was thought that this discretion would be most advantageously exercised by securing, while there was a favorable opportunity of doing so, all papers coming within the terms of the law, the suppression or omission of which might, in the judgment of competent historical authority, leave incomplete the public records of the State. Moreover, it was always considered that the object of the Agency was t…

Eeports were from time to time addressed to the Governor, who communicated them to the Legislature ; and further sums of three thousand dollars on the 11th of April, 1842, and five thousand dollars on the 13th of April, 1843, were voted to defray the expenses of the Agency. Having at length executed his duty as fully as he could, Mr. Brodhead returned home in the summer of 1844, and was occupied d…

Documents in Europe, relative to the Colonial history of this State.' The report presents a brief but very clear history of the progress of the Agency, of the difficulties encountered, and of the general results accomplished, and will be read with the interest belonging to the suhject. " My pressing engagements have not allowed me time to make myself acquainted with the documents which the Agent h…

" The schedules of documents accompanying the report I have not found it possible to command the time even to read, although the transmission of the report has been delayed for some days, in the hope that so much leisure might be found. Any further delay would only abridge the time which will be allowed to the Legislature to make these examinations, and to take the necessary action to bring the Ag…

" ' This Agency is the result of the antiquarian spirit that has lately gained so much ground in our country. That spirit, growing and freshening with the advance of years, has been greatly strengthened and fostered by the exertions of the New-York Historical Society ; an institution which, it is but faint praise to say, has more than fulfilled the high hopes entertained of its future value and i…

Referring to the gaps and deficiencies in our own existing records, the papers of the Dutch West India Company and the archives of the then government of the Netherlands were pointed out as the sources whence materials for the Dutch portion of our history were to be obtained; and the recoi'ds of the Plantation Office (Board of Trade) in London, and tlie library of the British Museum, were also all…

George Folsom, a memorial was prepared and presented to the Legislature, urging the importance of an investigation of European archives, for the purpose of procuring those materials for the illustration of our history which our own State records could not furnish ; and praying the State to undertake, for the benefit of the people, an enterprise the society of their own means were unable to carry i…

Stone, and others, an act was passed, with great unanimity on the 2d May, 1839, authorizing the appointment of an Agent " to visit England, Holland and France, for the purpose of procuring, if possible, the originals, and if not, copies, of all such documents and papers in the ai-chives and offices of those governments, relating to or in any way affecting the Colonial or other history of this Stat…

in most cases only upon applications backed by high personal or official influence. I had an interview, accordingly, with the Secretary of State of the United States, for the purpose of procuring specific instructions to the American Ministers at London, Paris and the Hague, in favor of my Agency ; but he having declined giving them at that time, I embarked for Europe on the 1st of May, 1841. " On…

This note was referred by the Marquis of Normanby to Lord Palmerston, Principal Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and on the ; 20th July following an answer was returned to Mr. Stevenson, that Lord Palmerston felt some difficulty in acceding to my application, but that if 1 would send to him a list of any particular documents I wished to obtain, his lordship would have them examined by some…

"'It was hoped that, on a review of the subject, Her Majesty's government would have looked more auspiciously upon the application, and that, so far from perceiving in it anything objectionable, would rather have viewed the objects of the State as of a purely literary and altogether praiseworthy character, and, as such, commending themselves to the favorableand liberal consideration of an enlighte…

Bleecker, then the Charge d' Affaires of the United States near the King of the Netherlands. The well known interest of this gentleman in the cause of historical research, induced him to enter, at once, cordially into the views of the State; and I gladly and gratefully embrace this opportunity to renew the expression of my thanks for those valuable counsels, and friendly efforts to further the obj…

The general direction of the royal archives being entrusted to the Minister of the Interior, the application was promptly referred to the Baron Schimmelpennick, the head of that department; and an interview was accordingly had with His Excellency, who at once informed me that he would give directions to the officer in charge of the archives to afford me all facilities for the purpose of fully ca…

M. de Jonge, on my presenting myself at the archives, pointed out the various depositories in which the documents presumed to relate to the subject of my research were contained and gave directions that every book and paper, known or supposed ; to contain information affecting our Colonial history, be submitted, without reserve, to my inspection, and every arrangement made that could facilita…

The diplomatic correspondence of the government, as well as copies of general letters, and also the instructions and commissions issued from time to time, are preserved in several separate series of books. The original papers and memorials, received by tlie States-General from time to time, are arranged on Liasses, or files, or are tied up in bundles, which are deposited in the Secrete and Lokei K…

impression I had previously entertained, that though a great and valuable amount of information, on points either entirely novel, or at best but imperfectly known in our history, was there contained, the records of the Dutch West India Company, which had the supervision and direction of the Colony of New Netherland, were the grand magazine in which I might hope to find those more particular detail…

" ' But, on applying at the West India House, I was, to my infinite surprise and mortification, informed by Mr. de Munnick, the keeper, that all the books, documents and papers of every kind, belonging to the old East and West India Companies, of a date prior to 1700, had been sold at public auction in the year 1821, by order of the government of the Netherlands. That nothing should be left undone…

Unwilling, however, to abandon all hope of recovering a portion, at least, of the records which had been sold, I caused advertisements to be inserted in the most widely circulated journals of the country, requesting any person who might have in his possession any documents relating to the history of the Colony of New Netherland to have the goodness to communicate with the (then) Consul of the Unit…

" The application to the authorities of the city of Amsterdam, for permission to examine ' their archives, was at once acceded to in the most courteous manner, and prompt arrangements were made to facilitate my investigations of the records in the Stad-Huys. Quite a number of interesting documents, relating to the City's Colony on the South river, were found and copied. " Examinations were also …

respecting New Netherland, and the proceedings of that body in relation to the various matters from time to time brought before them affecting the Colony and its inhabitants. The act of the Legislature directed me to procure, if possible, the originals, and if not, copies of all documents illustrating our history. I applied for the originals, but the regulations of office did not allow a complianc…

Everett as Minister of the United States, near Her Britannic Majesty. At the request of the Governor, and justly appreciating the importance to the Union, as well as to the State of New-York, of the objects contemplated by the State in sending an Agent to Europe, the President of the United States had instructed Mr. Everett to apply to the British government for such facilities as might be necessa…

It need scarcely be said that the views of the State were at once warmly and zealously entered into by the distinguished gentleman who represents our country in England, and whose friendly and valuable counsels have laid me under obligations I shall always be proud to acknowledge ; or that it was fortunate for the cause of literature and historical investigation that the Earl of Aberdeen was Forei…

it is claimed that it has " never permitted itself to be surpassed by any other, in the countenance which it has at all times extended to every judicious effort for the promotion of useful knowledge." Some time subsequently, Lord Aberdeen having suggested that though it might not be possible for me to furnish a specific list of the historical documents desired, yet, that a general statement of the…

my examinations were to be made in the presence of an officer of the establishment, and that I was merely, in the first instance, to indicate, by slips of paper, the documents I might wish to transcribe, and not to transcribe, or make extracts of any of them, until the papers so indicated should have been examined and allowed, on the part of Lord Aberdeen. " ' This order was interpreted by the kee…

Everett to Lord Aberdeen. His lordship promptly replied, giving me the further permission desired respecting the making memoranda, &c., but declining to accede to the request that I might be allowed to employ a private copyist. I was obliged, in consequence, to pay to the clerks of the office 4d. sterling for every folio of 72 words that they transcribed. " Her Majesty's State Paper Office, in Lon…

James' Park, near the government offices ; and is, in every respect, well adapted to its purposes. In addition to the papers from the offices of the Secretaries of State (among which is to be found a very voluminous correspondence with the Governors and Military Commanders in America), the State Paper Office now contains the whole of the records of the " Board of Trade," down to its dissolution, i…

By order in council, dated 12 March, 1675, King Charles II. referred whatever matters had been under the cognizance of the late Council of Trade and Foreign Plantations to a committee of the Privy Council, consisting of the Lord Treasurer, the Lord Privy Seal, and others, and directed them to meet once a week, and report their proceedings to the King in council, from time to time. During the re…

our historians as the " Board of Trade." On the 15th May, in that year, King William III., by royal commission, constituted and appointed the great officers of state, for the time being, and certain other persons, " Commissioners, during the royal pleasure, for promoting the trade of the Kingdom, and for inspecting and improving the Plantations in America, and elsewhere." This board was empowered …

" ' The records of the Board of Trade were kept with much care and system. Their proceedings on all subjects brought before them were accurately entered in a series of large folio journals, commencing with 1696 and extending down to 1782; and which, including the records of the proceedings of the Committee of Privy Council, between 1675 and 1696, number about 130 volumes. " The documents relating…

Documents of general concern to all the Provinces and Colonies were recorded and preserved in a separate series of books, amounting to sixty, entitled " Plantations General." " The records of the State Paper Office, properly, are not nearly so perfect, especially in ' the earlier periods, as those of the Board of Trade. It was only in matters of great secrecy and concern that the Provincial Gov…

aloae, fillino- nineteen large folio volumes, and comprising, as well, the letters of the Secretaries to the Governors. Besides the several series relating to the different Provinces, there is a set of volumes, numbering eighteen, entitled " Plantations General," in which the general correspondence of the Secretaries with the Colonies and with the Superintendents of Indian Affairs, &c., between 17…

" ' Thus upwards of five hundred volumes and bundles of papers were thoroughly and carefully examined in the State Paper Office. Each document desired for transcription was indicated by a slip of paper, and subsequently reexamined by a gentleman connected with the Foreign Office, under Lord Aberdeen's direction. Such of them only as were not obje(;ted to were copied. The copies were made by the r…

an expression of my admiration of the politeness and attention of Messrs. Charles Lechraere and Robert Lemon, the deputy keeper and chief clerk. To the latter gentleman, particularly, I feel under great obligations, not only for his personal courtesies to myself, but for the ready and zealous interest he manifested in the success of the undertaking I was charged by the State to execute. " Presumin…

There are no separate papers whatever, in the Privy Council Office, of a date prior to 1700 ; but the registers of its proceedings are preserved complete from the time of Queen Elizabeth. " The library of tlie British Museum, already a magnificent monument of the public spirit ' of the nation, is daily becoming more and more worthy the admiration of the world. The collection of printed books and…

Through the kind and polite attention of Sir Henry Ellis, the principal librarian, I had every facility afforded me for examining the various printed and manuscript collections, and quite a number of transcripts were made of papers bearing upon our history. While speaking of this noble institution, I may be permitted to remark that nowhere else was I more strongly convinced of the indispensable ne…

My application to the Archbishop of Canterbury for permission to make researches in the library was promptly and cheerfully complied with ; and it gives me great satisfaction to have this opportunity of acknowledging the very marked liberality of the venerable prelate at the head of the English Church, as well as the urbanity and friendly interest displayed by His Grace's librarian, the Rev. S. R.…

I was unable to find any traces of the original books of records of the Indian Commissioners, which are supposed to have been removed from this State during the Revolutionary war; but copies have been made of all Sir William Johnson's official letters to the British government, which remain in the State Paper Office, as well as of the greater part of the proceedings respecting Indian affairs, whic…

"' The policy of France in regard to her Canadian possessions -- the establishment of her military positions on our frontiers, and her negotiations with the Indian tribes on our borders, and within the very limits of our territory itself, are directly and intimately connected with our Colonial history; and hfer long struggle to maintain her influence in the northern portion of our continent, affec…

An answer was promptly returned, authorizing me to make the researches I wished, without limitation; and adding, that " all the facilities he can desire will be accorded" to the Agent. I will only remark, in passing, that this liberality did not prove to be mere formal phrase. " ' In further prosecution of the duties of my mission, I accordingly went to Paris in June, 1842, and commenced my examin…

It is greatly to be regretted that the volumes subsequent to 1737 appear to be missing. The other, and by far the most fertile repository, is a series of upwards of an hundred enormous "cartons" or port-folios, each larger than two ordinary folio volumes, and in which, at the time of my examination, were placed loosely and without chronological order, or even the least attempt at arrangement, a ma…

"'Knowing, however, that tlie archives of the Department of the Marine and the Colonies was not the only source from which to obtain information, an application was addressed to the Minister of War, Marshal Soult, Duke of Dalmatia, which was promptly answered by a had been given for my admission to the dep6t and archives of the letter stating that orders War Department, " for the purpose of exami…

The documents selected and transcribed relate chiefly to the period between 1755 and the treaty of Paris, and comprise the correspondence of the Military Commanders in America with the French government. " 'An application was also made for permission to examine the archives of the Department of Foreign Affairs, for papers relating to the history of Canada, and the intercourse between that Colony a…

you have already applied, is the only one which can furnish you with information on this subject, Canada having always been under its supervision, and never having had any relations with my department." " Researches were also made ' in the collections in the Royal library at Paris; a most full and unqualified permission for which purpose was granted by Mr Villemain, the Minister of Public Instr…

relations with this Province, &c., as well as the dispatches of the Military Commanders during the romantic and exciting period in our history of the " French War." " As at the Hague and in London, the reguh tions of the offices at Paris did not allow ' me to execute that part of the law, establishing the Agency, requiring the procurement, if possible, of original documents. Transcripts were mad…

That much of the good feeling exhibited was owing to the high standing of our Minister at the French Court, is unquestionable ; and I feel it a duty, not less incumbent than grateful, again to acknowledge the marked kindness of General Cass, and the personal and zealous exertions he never failed making, to render my visit to Paris most advantageous to the State. " ' The researches in the French wa…

The price paid for copies was about eleven cents for eacii page. In London, however, as before stated, my application for permission to employ a private copyist having failed, I was obliged to pay to the regular clerks in the State Paper Office 4d. sterling for every folio of seventy-two words, or about twenty-five cents for an ordinary page transcribed. This circumstance, and the unexpectedly lar…

I have before slated that, in the course of my investigations in the State Paper Office, I ascertained that there were other series of books and papers than those the terms of my original permission allowed me to inspect, containing information respecting our history ; and that a subsequent order from Lord Aberdeen gave me the liberty to examine a large number of additional volumes. I am far from …

They have used their best judgment, and the utmost caution, in acquitting themselves of this trust ; and if there are still any given which may appear to some to be scarce worthy of publication, they desire it may be considered that men's ideas of such matters are often very diHerent, and that any particular paper which, upon being perused apart from the rest, may seem of too little consequence to…

" 'The transcripts were all separately made, and in such a manner that they could be afterwards arranged in proper order. This was necessarily the case, as the originals were not all contained in one particular set of many and various series. books or papers, but were scattered through The documents copied at the Hague, and in Amsterdam, were all arranged and indexed by myself during leisure even…

It is believed, however, that this point has been carefully guarded, and that the plan I adopted, viz: the use of the Historical year (which commenced on the 1st of January) instead of the Legal year (which commenced on the 25th March), and of the Old Style, until 1752, when the act of Parliament took effect, will be found to have been judicious, and to meet the approbation of the investigator. Th…

These several appropriiitions, amounting to twelve thousand dollars, have been drawn from the treasury and entirely exhausted in defraying the expenses of my mission; accurate accounts for which have been rendered to the Comptroller. I will only add, that I have advanced from my own private means a considerable amount, in addition, which has been applied to defraying the expenses of transportation…

of difficulty and oppression to the principles she then so fearlessly asserted -- has been among the foremost of the Confederation to vindicate her self-respect to the world, by rescuing from obscurity and long neglect the scattered memorials of her Colonial existence, to place them side by side the records of her independent progress. " ' I have the honor to be, Sir, " ' Very respectfully, " …

But as mankind rise in the scale of intelligence, a growing solicitude is felt in regard to circumstances and events beyond the present moment the necessity of making provision for future exigencies becomes ; more and more apparent, and leads to untiring exertion to accomplish so important an end. It is reserved, however, for a still higher degree of progress to develope any considerable interes…

" It has been made a subject of reproach to this country, by the enemies of republican institutions, thatno care is taken among us to preserve our ancient records a charge -- implying a semi-barbarous condition of society, and far from complimentary to our national character. But admitting its truth, to a considerable extent, there is good reason to believe it will not be long deserved ; for publi…

A late excellent writer, the author of a valuable History of the United States, although a stranger to our country, has spoken in proper terms on this subject; he remarks as follows Founders of ancient colonies have sometimes been deified : ' by their successors. New-York is perhaps the only commonwealth whose founders 'have been covered with ridicule from the same quarter. It is impossible to r…

amidst the toils and hardships of colonial life, removed at so great a distance from the scenes of their early associations, deserve a very different commemoration at the hands of their descendants and successors. " The New -York Historical Society -- an institution that has done much to preserve the historical records of our State -- first suggested to the Legislature the propriety of searching t…

A copy of his instructions, from the Executive of the State, is annexed to this report. " In pursuance of these instructions, Mr. Brodhead, on his arrival in London, applied to the British government for permission to make transcripts of such documents in its archives as related to our Colonial history. The application appears to have been coldly received by Lord Palmerston, then Principal Secret…

Brodhead's researches in Holland are sixteen volumes of transcripts in the Dutch language, an analysis of which is contained in his printed calendar. It will be observed that these documents comprise a great variety of details relative to the original discovery and settlement of our State ; commencing with notices of the first navigators who explored the North and East rivers, and embracing copies…

But there was found a few years ago among the papers of Governor Bradford, of the Plymouth Colony, a correspondence between that functionary and the Dutch authorities of New Netherland, on the Island of Manhattan, bearing date in the year 1627 ; and Bradford, in a letter written at that time, says of the Dutch, ' that for strength of men and fortifications they far exceed them and all others in t…

The attention of the Legislature has already been called to it, in a report made to this body during the last session, but for a very different purpose, and in an incomplete and inaccurate translation ; it is therefore reproduced here. It is a letter written from Amsterdam by Mr. Schagen, the Deputy of the States-General at the meeting of the West India Company, to the Dutch Government at the Hagu…

They have sown all kinds of grain in the middle of May, and reaped in the middle of August. I send you small samples of the summer grains, as wheat, rye, barley, oats, buckwheat, canary seed, beans and flax. " ' The cargo of the ship consists of 7,246 beaver skins, 178J otter 675 " 48 mink " 36 cat-lynx " 33 mink " 34 small rat " together with a considerable quantity of oak timber and nut-w…

"Some doubt has hitherto existed in regard to the name of the Director-General or Governor of the Colony prior to the year 1633 and although it was generally supposed that the office ; was then held by Peter Minuit, yet no official act of that person as chief magistrate was among our records. The fact is now established by the discovery of an original grant of lands, signed by Peter Minuit and h…

Brodhead, having finished his labors in Holland, returned to London in December, 1841, where in the meantime a change of ministry had taken place -- Lord Palmerston having been succeeded by Lord Aberdeen in the office of Foreign Secretary. A more friendly policy towards the objects of the Agency was now manifested, and, with the valuable aid of the new American Minister, Mr. Everett, the prelimin…

Brodhead returned to England, and on the 7th of July, 1844, embarked for New -York, where he arrived early in the following month. Immediately after his arrival, he reported himself to Governor Bouck, and made known to him the general results of his mission. From that time until the date of his final report, the 12th of February last, he was employed at the city of New -York in arranging the docum…

The following extract from the report of a committee of the Assembly, in relation to lands granted by the State for military services, shows their value in this respect " 'The committee, also, in the spirit of the ruleof rendering justice to whom justice is due, feel constrained to acknowledge the important aid they have received, in this investigation and search for the musty records of olden ti…

There is nothing in print like the minute and exact reports made by the French Canada of their operations on our frontier officers in during their long struggle for the preservation of Canada. Your papers surround Montcalm with all the interest of a hero of romance, and trace his overthrow, clearly, to distinct and inexorable causes. " ' For the following period, your collections were also most …

April, 1842, $3000 ; and on the 13th of April, 1843, $5000. By the Comptroller's books, it appears that Mr. Brodhead has furnished accounts and vouchers for $12,014.23, including his compensation to July 7th, 1844, leaving a balance in his favor, to that date, of $14.23. " It appears, from an abstract of the Agent's accounts, that the Holland documents, exclusive of binding, cost $ 703 13 The Pari…

Brodhead remained for several years in the condition in which they had been deposited in the Secretary's office, aflfording light and aid to historical inquirers, not only of this but of other States. The " Paris Documents" -- xlii GENERAL INTRODUCTION. "were found to be of special interest to the literary investigators of Canada and the northwestern States, while many of the papers procured in…

A better opportunity was thus affi)rded to ascertain the character and extent of the historical archives which had remained so long in great disorder, and almost inaccessible. Measures were afterwards taken by Mr. Secretary Morgan to have these old papers properly arranged and bound ; and more than two hundred large folio volumes of original documents were accordingly prepared and placed in a cond…

E. B. O'Callaqhan, which, on the 5th of January, 1849, the Legislature ordered to be printed. In the following April, the Legislature directed the Secretary of State to cause to be printed a second volume of what was styled the " Documentary History" of New -York. Of this work, four volumes, in all, have been published. They contain a miscellaneous compilation, among which are some of the manuscr…

The manuscript documents relating to the Colonial history of this State, now in the office of the Secretary of State, which were procured under and by virtue of an act of the Legislature, passed May 2, 1839, entitled ' An act to appoint an Agent to procure and transcribe documents in Europe relative to the Colonial history of this State,' or such portions thereof as the State officers hereinafter…

The said State officers shall issue proposals for the printing and binding of such number of copies of said documents as they shall deem advisable to cause to be printed, not exceeding five thousand, in the same manner as proposals are required to be issued for the printing and binding of legislative documents, and shall make a contract for such printing and binding with such person or persons as …

One thousand copies of said documents, when printed and bound, shall be deposited with the Secretary of State, and one copy thereof delivered by him to each member of the present Legislature, the President of the Senate, clerks and elective officers of the present Senate and Assembly, and twenty-three copies thereof (being one to each) to the several State officers who are entitled to bound copies…

It became a question whether, under the discretion vested by this law in the State officers therein named, the whole of the documents or a selection of them only should be published. Mr. Brodhead, who was then Secretary of the American Legation at London, and about to return home, offered to superintend the publication of such a selection, if it should be determined upon, without any charge to th…

Of these, the first and second were to contain translations of the " Holland Documents ;" the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth, the " London Documents ;" and the ninth and tenth, translations of the " Paris Documents." The publication of the work was commenced in 1853 by the issue of the third volume, or the first of the English series -- the translation of the papers to form the fi…

" The People of the State of New -York, represented in Senate and Assembly, do enact as follows "Section 1. The publication of the documents relating to the Colonial history of the State, pursuant to chapter one hundred and seventy-five of the Laws of eighteen hundred and fortynine, shall be completed under the direction of the Regents of the University, who shall hereafter have the charge of the…

Five copies of the said published documents shall be delivered to each member of the present Legislature, and five copies thereof shall be given to each of the clerks, officers and reporters of the present Senate and Assembly, and to the several public officers who are entitled to bound copies of legislative documents. Three hundred copies thereof shall be placed with the Regents of the University…

On inquiry into the progress made in the translations and the condition of the work generally, it was found to be so nearly completed that it was deemed inexpedient by the Regents to attempt any exercise of the discretion vested in them under the second section of the act of the Legislature. All that remained for them to do was to superintend the residue of the publication, according to the arrang…

The Resolutions have, of course, only one date ; but most of the papers and memorials presented to the States being the subjects of Resolutions of that body, there is a memorandum of the day of reception marked on each, which corresponds with the date of the Resolution ; and in this manner each paper has been arranged -- not according to the actual date -- but according to the order of time in wh…

These Registers contain the proceedings of the States General in regard to subjects which it was deemed proper to record in separate volumes, such as treaties, declarations of war, &c., &c. The volume 1609-1615 is missing. 4. Imtructie Boeken. These contain the Instructions issued from time to time to officers and agents of Government. 5. Commissie Boeken. These contain the Commissions issued to…

These are files, on which the originals of all general letters and memorials received by the States-General are preserved. Each paper is marked with the day of its date, and of its reception by the States. They are arranged and referred to, according to the latter date. These Liasses also contain drafts of general letters sent by the States. 12. Liasses Admiraletiet, containing papers relating to…

Resolutien van de Vroedschappen. These books contain the minutes of the Acts, Proceedings and Resolutions of the City Council of Amsterdam. 2. Muniment Register van den Raad. In this series of books are registered, at length, Reports of Committees, and important papers relating to the affairs of the city. One of the volumes -- " Muniment Register B " is not now in the Archives, and is supposed t…

Resolution of the States-General appointing Captain Dale to a company of foot 1 December 8. Resolution of the States-General that Captain Thomas Dale's commissiou be expedited 1 December 24. Resolution of the States-General on the subject of Captain Thomas Dale's pay, <tc 2 1606. Kovember 15. Memorandum that Thomas Dale and Sir Thomas Gates were in garrison service at Oudewater, 2 1608. April …

Resolution of the States of Holland, &e., upon the memorial of certain merchants about a newly discovered navigation, 4 1614. March 20. Resolution of the States of Holland, upon the memorial of certain merchants, that the States-Genera! be recommended to pass a general ordinance in favor of all those who discover new lands, &c.,. . 4 March 27. Resolution of the States-General, upon the memorial …

Resolution of the States of Holland on the subject of a general West India Company, with a draft of an act proposed to be passed by the States-General 8 August 19. Letter of King James I. to the States-General about Sir Thomas Dale, "Marechal de Virginie," *e., dated Newmarket, 9 September 30. Resolution of the States-General upon the foregoing letter, to allow Sir Thomas Dale to continue his …

August Minute of the appearance, before the States-General, of Captain Cornelia Hendricksen, <tc., in behalf of Gerrit Jacobsen Witssen and others, Directors of New Netherland, and of his submitting his second report of certain discoveries he had made in New Netherland, in a small yacht of eight lasts burthen, called the Onrust, which the Directors had caused to be built there, &c., &c. ; upon …

Minute of the presentation to the States-General of a memorial of Lambrecht van Tweenhuysen and others, praying the government for a ship of war, to encourage the fishery, &c., at Terra Nova, etc., a decision upon which is postponed, July Resolution of the States of Holland upon the petition of the Directors of the Australian Company, prohibiting William .Tanssen from printing or publishing the …

Minute of the States-General, postponing a final resolution upon the report of the Council of State upon Captain Dale's petition February 6. Resolution of the States-General upon Captain Dale's petition, February 9. Resolution of the States-General, that their determination upon Captain Dale's petition be put into the hands of the Council of State, in order to be carried into effect August 10. R…

CONTENTS. liii 1620. Page. February 26. Resolution of the States-General, upon the report of the Acimiralty, that before coming to any decision upon the subject of the foregoing petition, the opinion of the Prince of Orange, be taken 23 March 10. Resolution of the States-General, upon the same subject 24 April 10. Further resolution of the States-General, theieupon 24 April 11. Resolution of the…

Resolution of the States-General, referring to the Admiralty of Zealand the petition of Henrick Allarts, and others, for permission to send a ship to New Virginia, 26 September 15. Resolution of the States-General, allowing Henrick Eelkens, and others, to send their ship, the Wilte Duive, to Virginia, Ac, 26 September 24 Resolution of tlie States-General allowing Dierck Volkertse, and others, to…

Resolution of the States-General, upon the further request of Sir Dudley Carleton, to come to some decision upon his Proposition about Virginia -- to look for the same, and also for what has been printed in Amsterdam on this subject 28 June 18 Resolution of the States-General upon the petition of Claes Jacobsen Haringcarspel, and others, for an extension of time, etc, to postpone a decision 28 …

Extract of the journal of Messrs. Van Aerssen and Joachimi, the Ambassadors to England, <fec., 33 October 14. Minute of the report made to the States-General by the Directors of the West India Company, 34 1625. May 6. Resolution of the States-General admitting Mr. Sch.agen to a seat as a Deputy from Holland, etc. 36 1626. September 4. A statement of the property and effects of the West India Com…

Patent to Kiliaen van Rensselaer for cert.iin lands, Ac, signed by Peter Minuit and his Council April April April CONTENTS. Iv 1633. Page. Nov. l-Y. Various depositions of the sailors, <fec., belonging to the English ship sent to the Hudson river, giving details of the conduct of the officers of the West India Company in New Netherland 72 1634. June 13. Resolution of the States-General, refe…

Answer of the West India Company to the pretension and claim of the Patroons of New Netherland,. 89 June 22. Replication of Messrs. Pauw, <tc., Patroons of New Netherland, to the answer of the West India Company, 89 June 24. Resolution of the States-General, postponing a decision on the differences between the West India Company and the Patroons, <fcc., for twelve days, in order to enable the pa…

Resolution of the States-General upon the report of the committee appointed to consider the difficulties that have arisen between the English and the West India Company in New Netherland 95 Draft of a new project of Freedoms, Privileges and Exemptions, to be granted by the States-General to all such Dutch subjects as may be thought qualified to become Patrooas, Ac, in New Netherland, under the…

Extract from the Pointen van Beschryving, for the meeting of the West India Company on 8th December, 102 lesY. April 3. Letter of Mr. van Beveren, Ambassador at London, to the States-General concerning the French fisheries at Terra Nova, Ac 103 April 30. Resolution of the States-General upon the further memorial of Lubbert van Dinclagen to write seriously to the XIX. of the West India Company,…

Letter of the States-General to the meeting of the XIX. of the West India Company, about the complaints of the English concerning New England, &c., 137 November Y. Resolution of the States General, upon the report of the Deputies of their High Mightinesses to the meeting of the XIX. of the West India Company, in September 137 November 24. Resolution of the States-General, making a change in the c…

Resolution of the States-General to send copies of the above letter of tlie West India Company, <tc., to the different Provinces, Ac, <fco., 142 October 1. Report to the States-General by the Deputies who attended the meeting of the West India Company ia April 142 October 8. Letter of Mr. Spieringh, the Swedish Minister, to the States-General, complaining of the exaction of duties on a ship com…

Report upon the affairs of New Netherland, presented to the West India Company by the General Board of Accounts, 149 1645. April 21. Letter of the States-General to the XIX. of the West India Company, about the complaint of the Swedish Minister concerning the detention of the ships Calmersleutel and Fama, coming from New Sweden, &a., 166 July 12. Report to the States-General, by their Deputies…

Extract from the Pointen, <tc, for the meeting of the West India Company on 2d September, 1645, 163 October 16. Extract from the proceedings of the meeting of the XIX. at MiJdIeburg, from the 9lh of September to the 16th October, 1645 163 . Iviii CONTENTS. 1646. Pagk. May 26. Letter of the Amsterdam Chamber of the "West InJia Company to the States-General, about a ship confiscated in New Ne…

Stuyvesant's commission, <fec., 177 July 28. Minute of the appearance of Peter Stuyvesant, Director of New Netherland, <fec., before the States- General, and of his taking the oath, etc., &c., 177 July 28. Commission of Mr. Peter Stuyvesant as Director-General of New Netherland, ic, Ac 178 July 28. Minute of the appearance before the States-General of Lubbertus van Dinclagen, Deputy and First Co…

Letter of the Ei^ht Men at the Manhattans to the Assembly of the XIX., 1 90 Resolution adopted by the commonalty of the Manhattans, 191 Certificate of the election of the aforesaid Eight Men, 192 Petition of Maryn Adriaensen and others, for leave to attack the Indians, 193 February 25. Commission to Maryn Adriaensen to attack the Indians at Corlaers Hook 194 March 27; 28. Sundry depositions res…

Letter of the Eight Men of the Manhattans to the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company, describing the sad condition of New Netherland and complaining of Director Kieft 209 1647. July 25. Judgment of Director Stuyvesant, banishing Jochem Pietersen Cuyter from New Netherland, 213 1648. January 18. Resolution of the States-General upon the proposition to throw open the trade to New Netherla…

Resolution of the States-General, referring a further petition of the guardians of Van Rensselaer, <tc.,. . 325 Answer of Cornells vai Tienhoven, Secretary of New Netherland, &c., to'the appeal of Cornells Melyn from the sentence of the Director and Council there, Ac, <fec., 325 December 13. Resolution of the States-General, referring the above memorial, Ac, 326 December 13. Memorial to the Stat…

A short digest of the excessive and very prejudicial neglect that New Netherland has experienced since it has been under the Directors of the West India Company, <fec 332 Jamiaiy 31. Answer of the West India Company to the several points contained in the Abstract of the Remonstrance from New Netherland. ( Note. -- The original of this document is in the handwriting of Cornells van Tienhoven ), 3…

Certificate of the service of the States-General mandamus on Director Stuyvesant in the church, in presence of the commonalty 352 July 29. Cornells Melyn's " disrespectful protest" handed to Mde Stuyvesant, 353 August 1. Director Stuyvesant's answer to Cornells Melyn's disrespectful protest, 354 March 16. Return of service made of their High Mightinesses' mandamus on Vice-Director Lubbert van …

Memorial of the Delegates from New Netherland to the States-General respecting the hostilities carried OQ by the Spaniards, notwithstanding the peace, (with) 397 April 12. Deposition of Wilhelm Noble, respecting the Spaniards, &.C., <fec., 398 April 12. Resolution of the States-General to write to Director Stuyvesant to publish the treaty of peace (of Westphalia) in New Neflierland, <tc 399 April…

Resolution of the States-General to grant to Cornells Melyn a passport, or safe conduct, for his return to New Netherland, &c., 407 June 30. Letter of protection of the States-General in favor of Cornelis Melyn, who is about to return to New Netherland 408 July 1. Resolution of the States-General, approving the draft of the foregoing, 409 July 21. Resolution of the States-General, instructing th…

Resolution of the States-General thereupon, 420 September 1 3. Letter of the Selectmen of New Amsterdam to the States-General 420 November 18. Resolution of the States-General, referring the foregoing letter, and one from Adriaen van der Donck, to their committee, <to., 421 November 29. Secretary van Tienhoven's answer to the Remonstrance from New Netherland 422 Extract of the observations by th…

Resolution of the States-General to write to the West India Company not to allow Secretary Tan Tienhoven to return to New Nctherland, and also that they instruct the captain of the ship Waterhont, not to receive him on board, 435 April 21. Letter of the States-General to the West India Company thereupon 435 August 19. Memorial to the States-General from certain inhabitants and merchants of Hollan…

Extract of a letter from the Selectmen to Adriaen van der Donck-- condition of things at the Manhattans 444 September 10. Extract of two letters from Augustin Herman --Stuyvesant does as he pleases, 444 September 13. Extract of a letter from Jacob van Couwenhoven and Dierck van Schelluyne --Selectmen misrepresented, 445 September 8. Extract of a letter from Vice-Director Dincklage -- law is viol…

Protest of the Selectmen of New Amsterdam against the Director and Council, for refusing to recognize them and for having deprived them of their pew in the church, 448 -- November 30. Extract from the journal of the Selectmen guns sold to the Indians of Cannarse (L. I.), 449 -- -- December 22. Extract of a letter from the Selectmen arrival of Melyn vindicate their conduct 449 November 3. Extract…

September 17. 1652. February 16. February CONTENTS. Ixv 1662, p^OE. May 24. Resolution of the States-General thereupon 473 May 24. Letter of the States-General to the different Chambers of the West India Company upon the foregoing matter 4Y8 May 28. Letter of the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company, to the States-General, respecting their High Migtinesses' resolution of 16th May, r…

Secret resolution of the States-General to write to Director Stuyvesant, that in the present situation of affairs between England and the United Provinces, he keep a careful watch, and that no person be employed, of whose devotion to the State he is not assured, &c., <fec . 482 July 22. Letter of the States-General to Stuyvesant thereupon, 4g3 July 31. Secret memoir of the Directors of the West …

Defence of Hendrick van Dyck, Fiscal in New Netherland, (with) 489 September 18. Letter of Hendrick van Dyck to the States-General, 49I 1646. July 28. Certificate that Director Stuyvesant hath taken the oath of office 4 92 July 10. Commission of Fetrus Stuyvesant as Director of Curasao, 492 1645. May fi. Commission of Fetrus Stuyvesant as Director of New Netherland, 492 May 5. Commission of Lubb…

Extract from the Resolutions of the Council and Selectmen of New Netherland, dismissing Van Dyke from office, with the comments of the latter, 510 March 28. Extract of another Resolution, with Van Dyck's comments 511 September 16. Letter of the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company to Fiscal Van Dyck, dated 9th April, 1652, with the latter's answer 612 1651. December 6. Declaration of Eli…

Short notes, in form of explanation of some points contained in the preceding petition of the colonies and villages of New Netherland, 553 1654. July 9. Letter from the Burgomasters of Amsterdam to Director Stuyvesant, notifying the intention to send some orphans to New Netherland, 556 September 11. Resolution of the States-General to desire the XIX. of the West India Company to send their High…

Letter of the West India Company to the States-General, in reply, (with) 563 December 30. Memoir on the English encroachments on New Netherland, 564 1641. October 10. Articles proposed to the West India Company by Rev. Hugh Peters, 663 October 10. Authority to Rev. Hugh Peters, signed by John Winthrop, Governor of Massachusetts, and John Haynes, Governor of Connecticut, 568 1655. January 2. Res…

Letter of the Amsterdam Cliamber of the West India Company to the States-General, about the boundary question in New Nelherlaiid 574 May 31. Resolution of the States-General thereupon, to write to Ambassador Xieupoort, 575 May 31. Letter of the States-General to Ambassador Nieupoort thereupon 575 July 10. Resolution of the States-General, upon the memorial of the Spanish Ambassador asking for the …

Letter of Don Estevan de Gamarra y Contrevas, the Spanish Ambassador, to the States-General, again referring to the case of Sebastian de Raeff, an alleged pirate, in New Netherland, and asking for letters, &c. , in favor of Juan Gallardo, &c. 680 January 6. Resolution of the States General thereupon, 581 January 10. Further resolution of the States-General upon the memorial of the Spanish Ambass…

Deduction, or a Clear and precise Aecount of the condition of tlie South river, in New Netherland, and of the unseemly conduct of the Swedes there, <tc 587 Extracts of letters from William Kieft, formerly Director in New Netherland, to the West India Company, 1638-1640 692 Deed of sale by the Indians of lands on the Schuylkill, <fec., signed at Fort Beversrede, on the South river, 693 1048. N…

Extract of a letter from Director Stuyvesant to the West India Company 600 Extract of a letter from Gerrit Bicker, Commandant at Fort Casimier, to Peter Stuyvesant 601 1654. July 27. Extract of a letter of Peter Stuyvesant to the West India Company, dated 27th July, 1054, 601 Depositions of various persons respecting the Swedes on the South River, taken before Secretary van Ruy ven, 1654 602 …

Ratification of the Treaty of Hartford by the States-General, Letter of a Committee of the West India Company to the Committee of the City of Amsterdam,. . . Points proposed by the Assembly of the XIX to the States-General, in the year 1654, March 3. Resolution of the Common Council of the City of Amsterdam to purchase a tract of land in New Netherland March 16. Resolution of the Amsterdam Cham…

Resolution of the Council of Amsterdam on a plan for colonizing New Netherland July 12. Resolution of the Council of Amsterdam, approving the conditions for planting a Colonie on the South Draft of conditions offered by the City of Amsterdam to emigrants to New Netherland, witli remarks of the West India Company Form of Permit to sail to New Netherland, Resolution of the States-General, referr…

Resolution of the States-General, ratifying and confirming the agreement and conditions made between the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company and the City of Amsterdam, &c, October 4. Memorial of Mr. van de Capelle to the States-General, asking for a commission for some proper person to be sent as commander by him to bis Colonie on Staten Island, in New Netherland 1655. October 30. Extra…

Resolution of the Common Council of Amsterdam, on the preceding report, 642 November 8. Estimated expense of sending a colony of 150 persons to the Delaware river 643 November 11. Resolution of the Common Council of Amsterdam, authorizing a loan for the Colonic on the South river , 645 December 5. Commission of Captain Martyn Kryger to command a company at the Colonic on the South river, belongi…

I From the Eegister of Resolutions of the States General in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague. ] Monday the 8"= December 1603. Folio 889. On Captain Thomas Dale's Petition it is granted that his Commission be captainDaie. expedited, and the desired deduction made after every due attention shall be paid to his complaint regarding the Eight who, he says, were absent through Soldiers sickness, with h…

Memorandum that CajJtaitis Dale and Gates we^-e in garrison in Holland. i From the Original List in the File intituled Loopenda of Novemb and Decemb 1606. in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague. ] : From a list of the stations of the Dutch Garrisons on the 15th November, 1606. From this List it most clearly appears that Thomas Dayl and S'' Thomas Gaels were in garrison together on the IS"' Novembe…

Resohttion of the States General, granting leave of absence to Captain Dale. [ From the Register of Resolutions of the States General, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague. ] Thursday, 20"" January. 1611. Folio 23. On the writing presented by the Honorable Rudolph Winwood, Ambassador from the King of Great Britain, it is ordered as follows: -- Captain Dale. TheStates General of the United Netherla…

Ambassador of the King of Great Britain, whether Captain Thomas Dale should be allowed to receive the payment of his salary as captain for the term of three years during which he is allowed to be absent from his Company, in the service of his Royal Majesty of England, in Virginia; But it is resolved, in view of the very prejudicial consequences resulting therefrom to the State, that the aforesaid …

Heer Joachimi reports that the Sir Winwood Ambassador of the King 'I"he CaptainDaie of Great Britain, General Veer, Governor of Briel, and Conway his Lieutenant, have again very urgently recommended, on behalf of this Highness the Prince of Wales, the request of Captain Dale, proceeding for three years to Virginia, that his allowance as Captain may go on in the meanwhile. It is again resolved, th…

Ships should be provided with Letters from the Lords States General or His Excellency to the Princes or Kings of the countries at which they may arrive, written in such languages and characters as may be most useful, that their High Mightinesses would be pleased to have a draft made of such letters as their High Mightinesses shall think proper to give tiiem, together with proper Commissions for th…

Copy of a Resolution of the States of Holland and Westvriesland, dated 7"" Septemb. 1611. PeHtion of divere '^^^ Petition presented by divers Merchants and Inhabitants, residing in the teo«&«.«)'nJ"rnin'g United Provinces, to this Assembly regarding certain newly discovered Navigation, cove^red Nlvigaifonl being read, the cities Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Hoorn and Enckhuysen request copy, which is …

four Voyages shall have been completed it being well understood, that on the return of the ; first discovery or exploration, a pertinent Report shall be rendered to the Lords States General, in order that their High Mightinesses may then order and determine, according to the distance and circumstances of the Countries or Places, within what time the aforesaid four voyages must be concluded and …

from these United Provinces, either directly or indirectly before and until, they, the Petitioners, shall have fully completed and finished the aforesaid six Voyages, etc. After deliberation it is resolved and concluded, that this solicited charter or concession shall be, as it is hereby, granted to the Petitioners, for four voyages, on condition that the Petitioners having completed the first voy…

To all those who shall see these presents or hear them read. Greeting. Be it Known, Whereas We understand it would be honorable, serviceable and profitable to this Country, and for the promotion of its prosperity, as well as for the maintenance of seafaring people, that the good Inhabitants should be excited and encouraged employ and occupy themselves in seeking out and discovering Passages, to H…

6 NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCPIPTS. serviceable for the prosperity of the United Provinces, And wishing that the experiment be free and open to ail and every of the Inhabitants of this country, have invited and do hereby invite, alland every of the Inhabitants of the United Netherlands to the aforesaid search, and, therefore, have granted and consented, grant and consent hereby that whosoever any new…

Well understanding that the discover, on completion of the first voyage, shall be holden within fourteen days after his return from said Voyage, to render unto Us a pertinent Report of the aforesaid discoveries and adventures, in order, on hearing thereof We may adjudge and declare, according to circumstances and distance, within what time the aforesaid four voyages must be completed. Provided tha…

Under stood -- By order of the Lords States General, Signed, C. Aerssen. Orga7iization of a Company to Trade in America^ c&c, proposed. Copy of a Resolution of the States of Holland and Westvriesland dated IS"" July 1614. EegardiDg the Ee- On the Remoustrance presented on the part of divers Traders of this country monstrance presented on behalf of bud- for the general Company formation of a…

States, in a Memorial from some thoroughly versed in the subject, on behalf of the Provinces of Holland and Westfriesland. Resolution of the States General on tJie proposed formation of a Commercial Company. [ From Ihe Register of Resolutions of the Stales General, in the Royal Archives at the Hague. ] Monday, 21. June 1614. DiverlTraders.Read a Remonstrance of divers Traders of these Province…

Resolved, That the business of forming F.rectionofthcWest . , , . . India Company. be Undertaken tomorrow morning; moreover, that to this meeting may come those deputed from the Provinces, those who will request to promote this work, those who act on orders, as well those who appear and have seats in the Assembly and at Extraordinary Meetings of other Chambers, and at the meeting of their High Mi…

draft of a Charter and its cons(^quences, and to render a report of the whole to the meeting; and they having first reported, that it was necessary for the promotion of the affair that the States General should pass an Act including the Trade to Guinea in the aforesaid Charter, the said Act is finally drawn up and concluded, as follows : -- " The States General of the United Netherlands having …

" Therefore, We being desirous to afford sufficient security thereto, as we have proceeded herein only uprightly, sincerely and in good faith, did and do Declare hereby, that Our intention was none other than to proceed in good faith, and by means of the aforesaid General Company earnestly and zealously to cause Navigation and Commerce to be undertaken as well to the West Indies and the Coasts of …

to every one as it has been to this day in every respect, as if no Charter had been granted ; And in order that those at present trading to Guinea may not be injured, it is our meaning, that those who have gone, or have been sent, to the Coasts of Guinea from this or other countries previous to the date hereof, or who shall proceed there within the present year 1614, shall continue their Trade to …

Eesnmpiion of the '^^^ resumption of the enacted Charter is further proceeded with, and some enacted Charter. difficulties are removed in the distribution of the Directors and Equipment among the Provinces, Quarters and Cities ; in the order of the Salt-traders ; the Limits on this side and through the Strait of Magellan, and the difficulties started thereupon by the East India Company, with who…

High and Mighty Lords, Our good friends and allies We cannot but acknowledge the favor, which through regard for Us, you have done to Sir Thomas Dale, Marshal of Virginia, by permitting him to absent himself for some time from your Service, to which he should have already returned, had not all of that Colony, where he has right worthily comported himself, perceiving the necessity of his remaining…

This We have right willingly undertaken for so good an object, and doubt not but you will consent with like promptness, not only in this case, but in all that depends on you for the advancement of so laudable an undertaking; the success of which, as in all probability it will be productive of advantage to our Realms, will, in like manner, not fail to communicate the like to your Provinces. Therefo…

Virginia, to tlie effect that tlieir High Mightinesses would please to give leave of Absence to the said Captain for two or tiiree years more, in order that he may continue his residence in Virginia meanwhile, to bring affairs there into tliorough security, for which he has laid good foundation, and commencement. After deliberation, and on the aforesaid high recommendation by his Majesty and the a…

Netheriald"* t^^ hereby grant and allow, the Petitioners that they alone shall have the right to P""*" resort to, or cause to be frequented, the newly discovered countries aforesaid situate in America between New France and Virginia, the sea coasts whereof lie in the Latitude of from forty to forty five degrees, now named New Netherland, as is to be seen by a Figurative Map hereunto annexed and t…

years commencing the first January XVl^ and fifteen next coming, or sooner, to the exclusion of all others, either directly or indirectly sailing, resorting to, or frequenting the said Newly discovered and found Countries, harbors or places, from these United Netherlands, within the said three years, on pain of Confiscation of the ships and goods wherewith the attempt shall be made contrary hereun…

Whereas Gerrit Jacobz Witssen, antient Burgomaster of the City Amsterdam, Jonas Witssen, Simon Morrissen, owners of the Ship named the Little Fox whereof Jan de With has been Skipper; Hiins Hongers, Paulas Pelgrom, Lambrecht van Tweenhiiyzen, owners of the two ships named the Tiger and the Fortune, whereof Aedriaen Block and Henrick Corstiaenssen were Skippers; Arnolt van Lybergen, Wessel Schenck,…

Which being considered. We, therefore, in Our Assembly having heard the pertinent Report of the Petitioners, relative to the discoveries and finding of the said new Countries between the above named limits and degrees, and also of their adventures, have consented and granted, and by these presents do consent and grant, to the said Petitioners now united into one Company, that they shall be privile…

We, therefore, in Our Assembly having heard the pertinent Report of the Petitioners, relative to the discoveries and finding of the said new Countries between the above named limits and degrees, and also of their adventures, have consented and granted, and by these presents do consent and grant, to the said Petitioners now united into one Company, that they shall be privileged exclusively to frequ…

12 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. We therefore expressly command all Governors, Justices, Officers, Magistrates and inhabitants of the aforesaid United Countries, that they allow the said Company peaceably and quietly to enjoy the whole benefit of this Our grant and consent, ceasing all contradictions and obstacles to the contrary. For such we have found to appertain to the public service. Given …

Cornells Henricxs% Skipper, appears before the Assembly, assisted by Notary Carel van Geldre, on the behalf of Gerrit Jacob Witssen, Burgomaster at Amsterdam, Jonas Witssen, Lambrecht van Tweenhuyzen, Paulus Pelgrom cum suis, Directors of New Nctherlaud, extending from forty to five and forty degrees, situate in America New Neiheriand. between New France and Virginia, rendering a Report of the se…

It is resolved, before determining herein, that the Comparants shall be ordered to render and transmit in writing the Report they have made. I 11 ^ ^ 1 1 1i III I If IP i¥ H 111 4^ HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: L 13 Memorial of Gerrit Jacobsen Witsen and others. Head \^th August., 1616. [ From the Original in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague, in Ihe Loketkas of the Slates General ; attached to a Parchm…

Mighty Lordships, did in March 1614, publish by Placard, that whosoever should discover any new countries, bays or rivers, the said finders and discoverers should enjoy for their discovery, the grants to trade and traffic exclusively for four Voyages to the aforesaid countries, on condition of making a Report thereof to Your High Mightinesses ; Therefore Your Petitioners turn to Your High Mightine…

Report of Captain Cornelis Hendricxz" of Munnickendam to the High and Mighty Lords States General of the Free, United Netherland Provinces, made on the xviii"" August A" J 616., of the countries, bay and three rivers situate in the Latitude from 38 to 40 degrees, by him discovered and found for and to the behoof of his Owners and Directors of New Netherland, by name Gerrit Jacob Witsen Burgom…

He hath found the climate of the said Country very temperate, judging it to be as temperate as that of this country, Holland. He also traded for, and bought from the inhabitants, the Minquaes, three persons, being people belonging to this Company; which three persons were employed in the service of the Mohawks and Machicans; giving for them kettles, beads and merchandize. Read August 19, 1G16. R…

Read the Petition of Gerrit Jacob Witsen, antient Burgomaster of the City Folio 216. Amsterdam, Jonas Witsen, Lambrecht van Tweenhuyzen and Paulus Pelgrojn cum sociis, Directors of New Directors of the Company Ji of New i o a Charter for Netheriand, requesting Netheriand. theiBselves, of the exclusive trade to those Lands from this country for four years, under the pains and penalties expre…

Latitude thirty eight to forty degrees, between New France and Virginia, adjoining the country heretofore discovered by the Petitioners and by them called New Netherland, etc., that their High Mightinesses would be pleased to grant them the Charter they demand. But the disposal thereof is again postponed. Resolution of the States General on the petition of L. van Tweenhmjzen and others. [From th…

Australian Compa- of the Journals, Maps and Charts of the Voyage lately made on the part of the ny Irom the Norlb into the South Sea. aforesaid Company, from the North into the South Sea, but that he send over all the pieces, with declaration from whose hands he hath received them, or come over himself here with them, without leaving any of them behind or retaining them, on pain of other proceedin…

Passage from the North into the South Sea; it is Resolved thereupon to notify the aforesaid Willem Jansz., that he shall not presume to correct the Globe, or the printed or written Map, nor in any other manner to publish or cause to be published the aforesaid discovered Strait, Water, Countries, Islands, or Coasts discovered there, but to keep himself strictly and specially holden as interdicted,…

to present to Your Lordships, with his Majesty's serious recommendations; the petition is exhibited by Captain Thomas Dale, an English Knight, who having a Company of foot in Your Lordships' service, absented himself with Your permission granted at the instance of Henry, late Prince of Wales, of glorious memory, for the space of some years, having command and authority for planting a Colony of the…

Chevalier Gates found by the hearty welcome he experienced from Your Lordships on his return, by the present you made him of the entire amount of his pay during his absence, that his duties were agreeable to you. Your Lordships, on the testimony his Majesty bears of Chevalier Dale's good demeanor on that occasion, and on the recommendation He makes in his behalf, will, if it please You, be happy …

He has returned here about a year ago : but, as he represents, has since been very sick and feeble, so that he could not before now present himself to Your iSlightinesses. He requests my letters to you, High and Mighty, and says he carries with him letters from his Majesty also, to Ambassador Carleton- He likewise says, he has been long in the public service ; so that [ consider Your Mightinesses …

Rec. 26 January 1618. Petition of Sir Thomas Dale^ and the Order thereupon. [ From the Original in the Eoyal ArchiTes at the Hague ; File entitled Zoopende. ] To the Noble, High and Mighty Lords, the Lords the States General of the United Netherlands. S'' Thomas Dad, Knight, Captain of a Company in Your High Mightinesses' service, most respectfully represents -- That he, the Petitioner, havin…

Whereupon his Royal iNIajesty himself, noting the petitioner's faithful duty performed in the aforesaid Country for the propagation of God's Word and the promotion of trade, wrote repeatedly to him, commanding that he should continue in his undertaken work until the last year, sixteen hundred and seventeen, wiien he, the petitioner, was first released with his Royal Majesty's consent, from his cha…

In conformity whereunto, the petitioner finding his Company still under the burden of the above named heavy debts, with which he first received it, and had at his departure leftit, hereby turns to Your High Mightinesses, confidently requesting that, in your bounty, you would be pleased to make good his ordinary monthly allowance for the period of his absence, and grant him an Order for his pay, so…

Having heard the advice of the Council of State on the petitioner's request, contained in this petition, and having paid attention principally to the recommendation of Sir Carleton, the King of Great Britain's Ambassador, made by his Majesty's Order and presented in writing to their High Mightinesses, their High Mightinesses have granted and hereby do grant (without the same being drawn into prece…

Ambassador from the King of Great Britain, appeared in the Sir Carleton, * Ambassador Carle- '"I- Assembly, and by his Majesty's Order, first verbally and afterwards in writing Daei. inserted hereafter, very earnestly recommended the petition of Sir Thomas Duel, Knight, Captain in the public service, returned from Virginia, whither he was permitted by their High Mightinesses to proceed some year…

On the petition of Captain S" Thomas Dael, to advise the High and Mighty Lords States General, that it is the opinion of the Council, under correction, that the petitioner may for this once and without forming a precedent, be rewarded with the payment of half his wages during the time of his absence, being seven years, out of consideration of the favorable recommendation made and presented by Amba…

Knight, dated 30"" January last, purporting that, for reasons therein set forth, and especially out of regard for Ambassador Carleton's recommendation, made and presented to their High Mightinesses in writing on behalf, and by order, of his Royal Majesty of Great Britain, they consider that, although this matter is of evil consequence to the public in respect to all other Captains and officers in …

Captain Thomas Dael, Knight, opened here on the 3"^ ins' being considered, their High Mightinesses for reasons therein contained, but principally out of respect for the strong recommendation of M. Carleton presented on the part, and by order, of his Royal Majesty of Great Britain to this Assembly, have approved that written opinion; and directed accordingly, that the Petitioner shall be gratified …

Carleton, Ambassador from the King of Great Britain, made and presented in writing by his Majesty's Order to their High Mightinesses, also the relation which the service, performed by the petitioner in Virginia, hath with this country, their High Mightinesses have agreed and hereby consent that the petitioner shall be gratified by the payment of his full wages for the time of his absence, to wit, …

Resolution of the States General on the trade to New Netherland. [ From the Register of Kesolutions of the Stales General, in the Royal Archives at the Hague. ] Thursday, 4 October 16 J S. Folio 267. Read the petition of the Company trading to the island of New Netherland, New Netherland. requesting the continuance of their charter for some years longer to trade exclusively to the aforesaid Isla…

New Netlierland Company, which their Higii Mightinesses have incorporated for the term of four successive years, whereof the fourth and last year hath expired in January last ; requesting that, in consequence of said expiration and of their, the petitioners', having already prepared A Shi to New ^ ®'i'P named the Schilt to proceed thither, their High Mightinesses would be Neiheriand. pjeased to g…

^.ompany. situate between i\ew France and Virginia, in thel atitude of from forty to fortyfive degrees, that the aforesaid Island might be peopled under their High Mightinesses' protection and government, whereunto they request two ships of war. But it is resolved, before disposing thereof, to procure the opinion of the deputies from tiie Board of Admiralty who are invited here for the 15"" inst. …

utie!"nueBoa?dor The Dircctors of the Company trading to New Netherland, situate in latitude 4vited'herrf°r fhc ffom 40 to 45 dcgrecs, between New France and Virginia, reverently represent i2Fe™i62o. (Sign- that they, the petitioners, have, as discoverers and first finders of said countries, i62i». traded thither nov? several years, in virtue of a certain general Charter from the High and Mighty L…

And whereas they, the petitioners, have experienced that his Majesty of Great Britain would be disposed to people the aforesaid lands with the English nation, and by force to render fruitless their possession and discovery, and thus deprive this State of its right, and apparently with ease surprize the ships of this country which are there, and are ordered to remain there the whole year; wherefore…

[ From the Eegisler of Eesolutions of the States General, in the Archives at the Hague. ] Wednesday, the 26"" February 1620. Folio 63. The Deputies present from the Board of Admiralty have presented to their ^'§^^ Mightiuesses, iu Writing, its opinion on the petition presented by the New''" Netheriand Company. Dircctors of the Company trading to New Netherland, hereinbefore inserted ; and insori…

Friday, the 10'" of April, 1620. Folio iia Read the petition of the Directors of the Nevr Netherland Company, that their que opinion thereupon. Resolution of the States General on the Petition of the Neio Netherland Company. [From the Register of Resolutions of the States General, in the Royal Archives at the Hague.] Saturday, the 11 April, 1620. Foiioiis. The petition of tiie Directors of the…

Item, another petition of Henrick Eeikens, Adriaen Janssen cum suis, Merchants at Chartered to New Amsterdam, having had a charter to trade exclusively to New Netherland, Netheriand. discovered by them, situate from the thirty-fourth to about the fiftieth degrees, requesting that their High Mightinesses would be pleased to reject and refuse all grants that may have been demanded, or still will be…

I From the Register of ResolutionB of the States General, in the Royal Arch'iTea at the Hague. ] Friday, the 6"' Novemb"' 1620. Folio 329. New Neiheriand. Mess" Pauw and Fervau reported their proceedings between both parties of the Merchants claiming New Netherland, endeavoring to reconcile them. But as that could not be done, it is, after consideration, resolved and concluded that the requested …

Resolation of the States General respecting New Virginia. [ From Ihe Register of Eesolatlons ol the Stales General, in the Eoyal Arcliives at the Hague. 1 Tuesday, the 4"' September, 1621. Henrick AUartszzn Read the petition of Henrick Allartszzn' cum suis, in which they request vil^'inla. permission to send a ship to New Virginia to fetch" their people and property from there; but it is resolve…

On the petition of Henrick Elkens, Hans Jooris Houton and Adriaen Janssen, ™m''6uis^. '^""'°' Engel cum sociis, merchants in Amsterdam, what follows is granted: The States General, &c., having communication of the contents of this petition, have, for reasons submitted with the presentation thereof, granted, and do hereby grant, for disposition thereof, that the petitioners, according to their r…

On the petition of Dierck Volckertse, Doctor Verus and Doctor Carbasius, eumsuis. residing at Hoorn, Pieter Nannincx, of Medenblik, Accountant, and Cornells Volckertse, together with Pieter Dircxzen Schoders, it is allowed as foUoweth: The States, etc., having communication of the contents of this petition, have, for reasons therein mentioned, allowed and hereby allow, for disposition thereof, an…

van Tweenhuyzen, Hans Claessen and company, trading to certain coasts, countries and rivers, by them discovered, lying between Virginia and New France, between the 40"" and 45"> degrees of latitude, called New Netherland; also, to a great river situate between the thirty-eighth and fortieth degrees, it is, after deliberation, allowed as foUoweth: The States General, etc., having considered the te…

of July, 1622. 1621. Memorandum. The proceedings of the States General in regard to the erection of a General West India Company, which they chartered this year, being very proli.\, and having relation principally to Brazil, it was not thought expedient to have transcripts thereof made, especially as the Original Octroy, together with all the amendments and additions, is contained in the " Gnot …

It is, thereupon, resolved to request Burgomaster Pauw that he would New Netherland. be plcased to Write to the partners in the trade to the Island of New Netherland, to the effect that their High Mightinesses desire to be informed of the state of the matter contained in the aforesaid proposition.' ' For this proposition, see poat. III., 8. -- Ed. ^ NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Resolution of…

[ From the Register of Resolutions of the States General, in Ihe Royal Archives at the Hague. ] Wednesday, 27"- April, 1622. Folio 150. Ambassador Carleton recommended that a resolution be passed on the Great Britain, communication he had made on the part of his Majesty, regarding the Island of Virginia. Virginia; and it is resolved, that the said communication shall be examined, together with w…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: L 29 Resolution of the States General respecting the papers of the West India Company. [ From the Register of EesoIution» of the Slates General, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague.] Tuesday, the 29'^ November, 1622. Granted, that the papers of the West India Company remaining in the office •west^indir^com- P""''- of the General Assembly, shall be inventoried and handed to the…

Langeracq, of the 1" mstant, lately received, mentioning a West India Company begun to be formed in France, that copy and extract shall be sent to Mess" their High Mightinesses' deputies at present attending the meeting of the XIX of the West India Company at Amsterdam, to submit to the meeting, as matters are in such a condition in France and England at present, that probably a West India Company…

On the V"- and Eighth points, it is deemed prudent first to wait for advices from England, of the success of the afl^air and resolution there, in order, when that is seen, to be able to resolve thereupon with better foundation. Presents to the Com- ^"^ whercas his Excelleucy proposes that the Ambassadors ought necessarily missioners. y^^ authorized, in case any league be concluded, to make some …

Your High Mightinesses will understand therefrom, that we (to our regret) are informed of the evil intentions and designs, maliciously undertaken, by a certain shipper and other persons there, directly contrary to the favorable charter and amplification granted by your High Mightinesses to this Company; and therefore, not only in opposition to your High Mightinesses' good intention and meaning, bu…

High and Mighty, would be pleased so to provide and prevented therein, and so to order, that not only the aforesaid ship should be forbidden undertaking its intended voyage, but that the Company may also be put beyond the risk of such evil practices being in future undertaken and attempted to its injury; and, likewise, to act further therein as your High Mightinesses shall consider necessary for …

High and Mighty, moreover, that we also certainly understand that many are equipped in that Northern department for the West Indies; and we therefore request you, High and Mighty, to be pleased, through the said Lords of the North Quarter, also so to provide, for reasons aforesaid, that the same be prevented and abandoned. Which hoping we shall. High and Mighty Lords, commend you, High and Mighty,…

This then appearing to be a matter of great consequence, we both deemed it proper to wait on the Magistrates of Hoorn, as we did forthwith, and after e.xplanatory introduction, requested them, as Judges and administrators of the laws, to maintain us against this contravention of the charter, and its amplification. Whereupon they answered, that we might certainly rely on them, and they resolved, wi…

You may be assured that a certain person of credit is here, who was lately offered a share of that ship, well knowing that some owners reside here and at Amsterdam : therefore, the matter ought, in our opinion, be prosecuted, for the sake of example, and thereby to discourage others, who are disposed to go the same road. Regarding our affairs, we have done nothing, except to make some preparatory …

After closing this, the arrested Skipper hath had an attachment served on us, and summoned us for the next day, which we shall endeavor to meet by exceptions, etc., until further instructions and advice will be received from your Honors. The address was Right Honorable, worthy, wise and most prudent, the Commissioners at the Assembly of the Nineteen, on behalf of the West India Company, at Ams…

We have, therefore, deemed it proper and necessary to send Your Honors the aforesaid Petition, and reflecting on theconsequeuces which may arise to the injury of the Company by disputes with the French, hereby recommend you to endeavor that this matter be arranged by agreement; either that your Honors receive the ship and cargo by purchase from the Petitioner, or, should this not be effected, caus…

^d'i'STc^lTwar! first: the West India Company; secondly: the aid that should be promised from uiiiiary aiTairs. fj^jg gj^jg {„ g^se the King go to war ; and, thirdly: if some regiments might be °' new soidtere." exchanged, new levies for old experienced soldiers; and, conformably to the advice of his Excellency, it is resolved, on the first point: That the declaration of the Assembly of the Nine…

Folio 65. jj^ tiiat his Excellency has been pleased to write the letter being reported ^"" resolved on yesterday to the Ambassadors in France, in answer to their letter of the S'* instant, it is concluded to let it be sent, as here inserted : -- The States General of the United Netherlands. Honorable, wise, right prudent Gentlemen: We duly received, on the 10"" inst., your despatches of the…

On the third point, speaking of the East and West India Company, you will, so far as relates To decline the East ^^ ^^^ East Indies, decline it, with the best reasons you can adduce; and finally* iDdiatraje. declare that nothing can be done therein without hearing the Company. And in case his Majesty should please to propose any thing, or make any overtures, in this regard, that after hearing it,…

Extract of the Journal or Report of the Mess" Francis van Aerssen, Lord of Sommelsdyk, &c., and Albert Joachimi, Lord at Ostend in Oudekenskercken. Ambassadors from the States General of the United Netherlands, near the King of Great Britain, from February to July, 1624. 4 June, 1624. My lord, the Prince of Wales, sent Mr. Caer, first Lord of his Bedchamber, some days ago to us, and requested u…

And inasmuch as he, seeing the uncertainty of the resolutions in England, was afraid that his son, having performed the exploit and coming home, may be complained of in consequence to the King; he prayed that, in case the King of Great Britain remained in friendship with the King of Spain, his son may be guarantied by your High Mightinesses, and commission granted him to annoy the King of Spain, i…

Albert Koenraets and Philips Doublet, Directors of the West India Company, ' Report ft-iim Brazil, TirgiDiaand Guinea, appeared before the Assembly, and rendered a report of the present state of affairs, both in Africa and Brazil, relating that two ships have arrived from the coast of Guinea, bringing, in addition to their freight of 627 pounds of gold, 1S40 elephants' teeth, and 330 tons of pepp…

[ From Ihe Begister of Eesolalions of the Slates General, in the Eojal ArchiTcs, at the Hague. ] Tuesday, the 6'" May, 1625. Mr. pTschagen. Received a letter from the States of Holland and Westfriesland, of this day's date, wherein they advise that they have deputed Pieter Janssen Schagen, Councillor and Magistrate of the City of Alcmaer, to their High Mightinesses' Assembly, in the stead of the…

In all, 12 ships and yachts destined for the African trade in Guinea, Benin, Angola, Greyn, and Quaqua coasts, with the exported cargoes and expected returns, as more fully can be shewn, amount to, according to cost fl. 1,709,000 1 ship of Dordrecht to Cape Verd, with cargo, 60,000 1 ship ) destined for the trade of the Amazon and the Coast of Guiana, 2 yachts j with the cargoes, 80,000 1 s…

36" NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. 8 ships and yachts oti divers expediiioiis, under Thomas Sickes flag, victualled for IS months, amounting to -. fl. l'00,000 33 ships of 200, (a, 300, (aJ, 350 hists, including 9 or 10 big and little yachts -- which the Company hath still lying here in port, provided with In all 73 metal and iron guns, and all sorts of supplies of ammunition of war, ships. …

Total, fl. 7,304,000 Further, 5 ships and 3 yachts which your High Mightinesses promised to indemnify the Company for in guns, powder, and other munitions of war ; as these are still wanting to complete the subsidy promised by the 40"" article of the Charter, and by divers acknowledgments made by your High Mightinesses, as to be seen in resolutions. It remains to be stated, that the valuation…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : I. 37 Thus, the Company's capital is greater at tliis time, by two millions, than it was at that period; besides, experience has given it more knowledge as to the condition of the places West Indies and tiie Brazils; what are useful or useless to the Company in that situate in the country; what can, and what cannot, be defended; all which is of great advantage to tlie Company…

Received from the Directors of the West India Company, Chamber at Amsterdam, a letter dated the 7"" inst., wherein they advise, that for divers weighty reasons and considerations, affecling the welfare and prosperity of the Company, they have summoned the Assembly of the XIX. for the l?"" inst., to proceed to business on Monday, the 19"", requesting their High Mightinesses would be pleased to sen…

They have purchased the Island Manhattes from the Indians for the value, of 60 guilders; 'tis 11,000 morgens in size. They had all their grain sowed by the middle of May, and reaped by the middle of August. They send thence samples of summer grain such as wheat, rye, barley, ; oats, buckwheat, canary seed, beans and flax. The cargo of the aforesaid ship is : -- 7246 Beaver skins. 17Si Otter^^sk…

Exhibited the IG"- November, 1627. To the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands. High and Mighty Lords. 1. We have heretofore communicated to your High Mightinesses the exploits, &c. 4. The last letters from New Netherland bring word, that the English of New Plymouth threaten to drive away those there, or to disturb them in their settlement and little colony, notwithsta…

High and Mighty Lords, We have heretofore represented, in writing, to your High Mightinesses, that our constituents, the respective Chambers of tlie Incorporated West India Company, think and fear that the utter ruin and dissolution of said Company will be the consequence of the present negotiaiion for a Trace with tiie Enemy, and have therefore with all submission besought you, High and Mighty, …

High and Mighty, to judge otherwise, of the importance of this matter. ' Your High Mightinesses are aware, and it is not unknown to us, that this Company was in the commencement, designed principally to increase Trade and Commerce, without which the great multitude of seamen bestowed by God on this country cannot be employed, and all occupations maintained in continual action and prosperity; that…

those nations and people, who still remain independent of the King of Spain, is very meager and trifling; and that the countries, yet uninvaded, are for the most part of little consequence and unproductive, or if good and fruitful, are very difficult of cultivation, especially for our people, who, being unaccustomed to so hot a climate, can with great difficulty betake themselves to agriculture; a…

But in order that you, High and Mighty, may be correctly informed herein, and understand tlie situation of the countries yet uniiivaded by our enemies, we shall explain to you more particularly the extent and condition thereof, from one end of our boundaries in West India to the other. The limits granted to us by Your High Mightinesses, start from, or begin on the iVorth at, Nova Francia, the boun…

The people conveyed by us thither, have, therefore, found but scanty means of livelihood up to the present time ; and have not been any profit, but a drawback, to this Company. The trade carried on there in peltries, is right advantageous; but one year with another, we can, at most, bring home only Fifty thousand guilders. Proceeding more southerly, next comes Virginia, possessed by the English an…

High and Mighty, can in your usual wisdom, and will, pursuant to your special regard and favor for us, consider that the security and welfare of our beloved Fatherland is most intimately connected with the preservation and prosperity of our Company, yet we have deemed it our duty to lay, with all submission, before you. High and Mighty, in a summary manner, the principal points which, in these par…

Mighty, by such as you yourselves consider have most at lieart the maintenance of the true Reformed religion and the liberties of our beloved Fatherland ; so that many have contributed abundantly thereunto even out of their poverty. Fourthly: that by means of this Company, even from its very incipiency, a great number of ships were partly purchased and partly chartered, which otherwise must have …

Seventhly: that we have employed, from time to time, in said ships, a great number of seamen and soldiers, so that we had last year 9,000 men, and now, at present, full 15,000 in our service; whereby the people were wonderfully benefited; many experienced pilots formed, and so many educated, that the country can always find fit persons to be employed on board its ships as chief and subordinate off…

It is now to be further considered what wealth these, our ships, have brought into this country. First: omitting what has been imported these previous years in course of trade in gold, elephants' teeth, pepper, hides, peltries, timber, salt and such like; the silver, coined and in bars, received in the beginning of this year, in consequence of the capture of the fleet from New Spain, amounted to s…

All which wares, sold and distributed among the good inhabitants, were consumed here and conveyed elsewhere, and therefore enriched your High Mightinesses' subjects, and increased the revenue- The damage done thereby to our enemies, is easily estimated. We have, moreover, captured some even of the King of Spain's galeons, hitherto considered invincible, besides some other of his men of War, exclu…

Your High Mightinesses' Humble Servants, The Deputies of the Chartered West India Company at the Assembly of the XIX. ( Signed ) Ant' Godin, Symon van der Does. Marcus van Valckenburch, de Moor, Jo» DE Laet, Diederich Scherff, PiETERzoNS, Abraham Oyens, J. Van der Nyenbur«, Wefrinck.' ' The above document will be found entire in Aitzema, Stoat en Oorhgh, folio, I., 902 ; 4to II., 912, -whe…

We, the Director and Council in New Netiierland, residing on the Island Manahatas and ia Fort Amsterdam, under the authority of their High Mightinesses the Lords States General of the United Netherlands, and of the Incorporated West India Company, Chamber at Amsterdam, hereby acknowledge and declare, that on this day, the date underwritten, came and appeared before us, in their proper persons, Que…

And that with all the action, right and jurisdiction to them in the aforesaid quality, therein appertaining, constituting and surrogating the said Mess" Godin and Blommaert in their stead, state, real and actual possession thereof; and giving them, at the same time, full and irrevocable authority, power and special command, to hold in quiet possession, occupancy and use, tanquam Actores et Procura…

Without they, the Grantors, having, reserving, or retaining for the future, any, the smallest part, right, action or authority, whether of property, command or jurisdiction therein; but now, hereby, for ever and a day desisting, retiring from, abandoning and renouncing the same for the behoof aforesaid ; promising further, not only to observe, fulfill and to hold fast, unbroken and irrevocable, th…

Patent to Kiliaen Van Rensselaer for a Tract of Land on HudsorCs River. [ From the anlhentic Transcript in the Royal Ardiires at the Hagnc ; File, Vent Indie. ] Anno 1630, adi 13th of August. We, the Director and Council of New Netherland, residing on the Island Manhatas and in Fort Amsterdam, under the authority of their High Mightinesses the Lords States General of the United Netherlands and t…

Kiliaen van Rensselaer, absent, and for whom We, ex officio and with due stipulation, accept the same; namely: the respective parcels of land hereinbefore specified, with the timber, appendencies and dependencies thereof together with all the action, right and jurisdiction to them the grantors conjointly or severally belonging, constituting and surrogating the said Mr. Rensselaer in their stead, s…

In testimony is this confirmed by our usual signature, with the ordinary seal thereunto depending. Done at the aforesaid Island Manahatas and Fort Amsterdam, on the day and year aforesaid. Signed, Peter M:nuit, Director; Pieter Bylvelt, Jacob Elbertss. Wissinck, Jan Jassen Brouwer, Symon Dirckss. Pos, Reyner Harmensen, Jan Lampe, Sheriff. There was, besides: This Conveyance written with mine own h…

extracted so much as relates to New Netherland. 14"- Point. And observing the misconstructions which occur in the Freedoms and Exemptions to the Colonists, the adjourned members shall therefore come to resume the same and bring with them the lists of their receipt, together with the names of those, who are admitted as Planters. Exhibited 19 March, 1632. Mr. van Arnhem to the States General. […

Which cannot but cause great injury to the Company, and, consequently, to your High Mightinesses. Tlierefore, we cannot forbear hereby respectfully soliciting your High Mightinesses to be graciously pleased so to recommend these and similar matters which may occur in England, to your High Mightinesses' Ambassador and Delegate there, that they may afford the Company all favorable assistance herein;…

Arnhem, their High Mightinesses' associate Delegate to the Assembly of the XIX., M' Olican absent, written at Amsterdam the 5"" inst, and seconded by the verbal petition of Mr. Adriaen Pieterson, Director of the aforesaid Company, in order to obtain letters to Ambassador Joachimi and Deputy Govert Brasser, with a view Ship Unity. that, through their intercession, the Ship Emdrachl, coming from New…

The Directors deputed to the Assembly of the XIX. of the West India Company, at Amsterdam, have represented to us that the Ship Eendrachl, on arriving at Plymouth, from New Netherland, was, by the Vice admiral and Captains of the Plymouth Castles, seized on the false information of the provost of said Ship, who was dissatisfied, because he could not have his earned wages paid to him there, (which …

And whereas, by such arrest and detention, in direct contravention of the Articles of the Fifteen Years' union, and especially of the Concession of freedoms granted by his said Majesty to the above Company's Ships, said Company is most deeply prejudiced, and put to excessively great expense, such as loss of wages and consumption of stores, amounting, daily, to a large sum, besides the loss of …

And in case the aforesaid, or any other ship, may, in consequence of the unfounded pretensions of the Earl of Carlisle, be troubled about a certain Island, St. Martin, claimed to have been given him by the King; where, nevertheless, the said Earl never had any people, but which has been made use of by the above mentioned Company, you will, on the contrary, allege such reasons as you will consider …

an^b"r™cu^i"im! ^ook On the cveuts at Amboina; and also, requested that his Lordship would ?onfe?'wfth'hiVEi° prevent the exportation of warlike stores to the enemy setting forth the ; Md^o7epOT^I)'o°ae advantage which this kingdom might, in time and place, derive therefrom. His ed) coMt. kv'^B, Lordship said, he had not given any consent to have the book printed ; and that he well knew the Co…

He also said, he had advice from the English Ambassador, resident in France, that such was the case; and having received no satisfaction therein, he had refused to accept a costly rapier from the King, and a certain present from the Queen. And his Lordship added, moreover, that he thought the first news we should receive from Spain, would, also, bring intelligence that tiie Spaniards from Cataloni…

His Lordship hath since received the Seals of the Foreign affairs; so that, hereafter, all these matters will pass through his hands. We have congratulated his Lordship, and expressed our satisfaction that his Majesty had been pleased employ him therein, as we were well aware that his Lordship was to always disposed to good correspondence between this kingdom and the United maintain Countries. I…

His Majesty being returned here on the first of April, we requested his answer to our proposals made at New Market, and, in addition, complained of the seizure since at Plymouth of a certain ship named the Ecndracht, belonging to the West India Company, and now coming from New Netherland, where your High Mightinesses' subjects have long peaceably traded, and, moreover, many years ago planted a col…

That he, therefore, will fully inform himself about the bringing in the prizes taken from our enemies, and give us an answer thereupon afterwards; that he should also take further information relative to the damage inflicted on us by our enemies, in his roads and harbors. That he had appointed Commissioners to confer with us on the subject of the published books. And, regarding the detention of th…

Which answer of his INIajesty, though expressed in polite terms and with a friendly disposition, did not please us, because the subject of the free use of the harbors was thereby postponed to the great prejudice of your High Mightinesses and your inhabitants; also, because his Majesty had appointed Commissioners to speak with us about the publishing of the books on Amboina, which we could not but …

We cannot make up our minds to attend the meeting of the Commissioners, for we are not instructed, nor provided, for the Amboina affair, as we have stated at length in our previous letter to my Lord, the Prince of Orange. Meanwhile, we all foresee that the farther things go here, the worse they will become. A certain public officer here informed us, that, having understood the Council would meet o…

We cannot perceive that his Majesty is indisposed towards us ; sed qui pro nobis intercedat nemo est, because we have neither Saints nor Festivals, wherein the Spanish nation is very superstitious. We are still awaiting the papers on Amboina, as well as those relating to the moneys voted by your High Mightinesses, which we heretofore most humbly requested might be sent to us. Your High Mightinesse…

The above named Boshuil hath the reputation here of being a very honest man, and, especially, that he is well inclined to maintain good correspondence between his Majesty and Your High Mightinesses. We submit to Your High Mightinesses' wisdom and discretion, whether or not you will furnish him with a free house. We shall merely observe thus much, that, if not done, it will again lay open the wound…

And herewith, commending ourselves, most respectfully, to your High Mightinesses' good graces, we shall continually pray Almighty God, High and Mighty Lords, that he may bless Your High Mightinesses' wise government more and more. Your High Mightinesses' Most humble and The lO"- April, 1632 ; Moat faithful servants, Stylo novo. In London. (Signed) Alb. Joachimi. Received 1 May, 163JJ. Govert Bra…

On the third instant, Pieter Minuit of Wesel, Director on behalf of your Company in New Netherland and Jan Lampo of Cantelbergh, Sheriff on the Island Manhattes, came to us here and informed us that, on arriving with your siiip, named the Eendrack, in the port of Plymouth, were there arrested for having traded in countries under the King of Great Britain's jurisdiction. We thereupon complained to …

Wherefore, we have deemed it to be our duty to inform your High Mightinesses that, subsequent to the first by your subjects in the year 1609, of the North River, discovery, (commonly called the Manhattos, also Rio de Montaigne and North river,) and after some of your inhabitants had resorted thither, in the year 1610 and following years, your High Mightinesses had finally, in the year 1615, grant…

The English themselves, according to their charter, place New England on the coast between the forty-first and forty-fifth degrees of latitude. But the English began in the year 1606, to resort to Virginia, which is South of our territory of New Netherland, and fix the boundaries, according to their charter, from the thirty-seventh to the thirty-ninth degree. So that our boundaries, according to t…

That his Majesty may likewise, in all justice, grant his subjects by charter the right to trade with any people, to the exclusion of all others, his subjects, as your High Mightinesses have a right to do by yours. But, that it is directly contrary to all right and reason, for one potentate to prevent the subjects of another to trade in countries whereof his people have not taken, nor obtained actu…

It is, after previous deliberation, resolved and concluded, that Ambassador Joachimi and Deputy Brasser shall be written to, that they use and exert all possible means to have the aforesaid ship released from arrest, and the West India Company in future saved from all similar annoyances, and that the Deduction communicated by the Deputies of the abovementioned Company in attendance on their High M…

And in justification of the trading of said Company to the aforesaid New Netherland, the said Directors have communicated to us the annexed Deduction, to which we have appended copy of a certain Charter, granted by us on the 14"" Octob. 1614, to some private inhabitants of this country, to resort to New Netherland.By all these we intend, that the right of the aforesaid Company to trade to New Neth…

First, to understand, on this occasion, from us, what secret negotiations were going on with France; for he began his conversation with an expostulation, saying that we had, in appearance, fully communicated to his Majesty the subject of the embassy to France, but that we had carefully withheld the most essential point thereof from his Majesty; that all the world was aware, that greater matters ha…

The second reason why he wished to speak to us on the delivery of the answer was, we think, to communicate to us, in addition, the internal meaning of the answer; namely, that the intent is, that like satisfaction shall be given by parties on both sides for everything; that is to say, satisfaction shall be given for what passed at Amboina; otherwise, we cannot expect that any regard will be paid t…

Apparently from considerations before mentioned, this affair was dragging along to the exceeding great inconvenience of your High Mightinesses' subjects who, meanwhile, dare not approach his Majesty's harbors with their prizes; whereby many, either through stress of weather, have perished, or through inability to wait for a convoy, have fallen into the enemy's hands; as has happened, even within f…

We, therefore, requested your High Mightinesses heretofore, in our dispatches of the 25"" March and 17"" April last, to advise us how we should act in case judgment was rendered against the said Captain; requesting, also, most respectfully, that the aforesaid order might be sent over to us by the earliest opportunity. We apprehend another difficulty in this matter; namely, that the Captain's owner…

The owners are also much importuned thereunto. Your aforesaid High Mightinesses, in your profound wisdom, will best understand what ought to be done in this matter. We shall most respectfully await your commands, and will most dutifully and faithfully obey them. Regarding the inquiry about the little ship taken near the Recolvers, we do not, and cannot think what is wanting. The long delay in sen…

The aforesaid High Treasurer's son goes by the first opportunity to Savoy, with a message of condolence on the death of the late Duke; as the Earl of Lycester goes to the King of Denmark to condole on the death of his Majesty's wife's mother. And herewith, commending ourselves, most humbly, to Your High Mightinesses' good graces, we will pray God Almighty, High and Mighty Lords, that He may bless …

That, in confirmation of the respect our said Lords cherish for Your Sacred Majesty, they had been pleased to communicate to Your Majesty the subject of the embassy they had sent to France, and that they had, on the earliest notice, ordered that the vessel be sent back which their Captains had captured near Roculvers ; they pray the aflfection they entertain for Your Sacred Majesty may be measured…

We complained also, Sire, of the publication of two certain books, the tendency whereof is only to excite the temper of one people against the other, a result altogether contrary to that desired by our Masters. Your Majesty was pleased to defer an answer to the foregoing, until you should have returned to the city of London. Wherefore, Sire, we most respectfully approach Your Sacred person, that y…

Thus it is, that the subjects of their Lordships, the States, have, for a long time, traded in the river Manathans, now called Maurice, in the West Indies, having purchased from the native inhabitants and paid for a certain island called also Manathans, where they remain surrounded on all sides by the Natives of the country, and have, from all time, in coming and going, freely enjoyed your Majesty…

Answer to Remonstrance presented to the King and the Lords, his the Commissioners, by their Lordships the Ambassador and Deputy of the Lords States General of the United Provinces, in April, 1G32. First: as regards the occasion of this Remonstrance, which is founded on the suspicion of some misunderstanding, it cannot but appear strange to his Majesty who could not imagine, by any indication, …

As regards the restoration which they have made of the vessel captured near Reculvers by one of their ships (mention whereof is made in the second Article) that also deserves praise, as the result of their justice, especially if the first delinquent had been punished and had made reparation for the losses and damages they have been always accustomed to demand and sue for in such case, which also s…

1": To cause their enemies to restore, with reparation of damages, their vessels which they captured in his Majesty's ports and rivers specified, to the number of five. To this we are enabled to answer, that his Majesty's Agent has earnesly prosecuted this affair in their behalf, and has now rendered an account of his proceedings in that regard, communication whereof will be given them, in order t…

And although the puissant Kings of France and Spain have prided tiiemselves on this practice, their individual laws, however, do not constitute the public law^. As regards ours, our civilians are in doubt on the matter, and do not furnish an instance of this case wherein there is not some difference. Moreover, other considerations present tiiemselves in this connection, of such consequence, that t…

This his Majesty has waited for a long time with great patience, and should a denial or a delay of this be persisted in, not only will the King and people, but the whole world, complain of such misdeeds, and demand redress at their hands. In the fourth and last place, they demand the release of a vessel seized at Plymouth, returning from a certain plantation usurped by tiiem in the north parts of …

But, moreover, the right his Majesty's subjects have in that country, is justified by first discovery, occupation and the possession which they have taken thereof, and by the concessions and letters patentsthey have had from our Sovereigns, who were, for the above reasons, the true and legitimate proprietors thereof in those parts, where their Lordships, the States, had not of themselves and did n…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : I. 59 of New Netherland, Texel, Vlieland, and such like, and sent ships of 30 and 40 lasts to look for furs in those parts; but that he was not aware that they had begun or designed to establish a plantation there; and, moreover, tiiat number of families, inhabiting the United a good Provinces, were then soliciting him to procure them a place in the said country where they…

By these answers to the said complaint, their Lordships, the States, may see what little cause they have of supposing, in his Majesty, any alienation towards his neighbours ; but we, on our side, make many complaints much more serious and more grave than those; the said Lords States having never offered suitable satisfaction, can well imagine that nothing but discontent can remain in his Majesty's…

They complain of damages received from their enemies, the reparation whereof they demand of us; and of some trifling detentions at our hands which, we say and consider, are well founded; but we complain of their injustice, committed as well against the goods as against the lives of his Majesty's subjects; of having wronged us in our trade; of having dispossessed us of divers countries in the East …

Tosbrreen, to extract the points ot handed to us on the day before by Secretary Kooke. We have since addressed •' ; ^jjg ^^\^ Secretary and complained -J ^ o of nothing of the contents thereof, consisting o ,„.„,. fn.mTnd'^to 'J^poH we also especially demanded that we should but retorts in place of satisfaction ; janM?;, 1682^ " receive an answer in the name of his Majesty, to whom we su…

Your High Mightinesses know how ill instructed we are on that subject; we therefore request again, most humbly, that, pursuant to our previous despatches, we receive by the first opportunity further order on this subject. We particularly complained to the said Lord High Treasurer of the unreasonable and unheard of proceeding adopted towards the ship the Ecndracht, which arrived from New Netherland…

Yesterday evening the news came of the arrival of an extraordinary Ambassador from France, who had been excepted. And herewith commending ourselves, most humbly, to the good graces of your High Mightinesses, we shall pray Almighty God, High and Mighty Lords, that he may continue to bless your High Mightinesses' wise government more and more. Your High Mightinesses' Most dutiful and faithful Serva…

Martin, it is to be considered whether the Commanders there, as well as those on the coast of Guinea, Africa and New Netherland, ought not be authorized by their High Mightinesses and the Prince of Orange, to adjudicate there, on said prizes; to declare them lawful, and to protect said prizes from seizure, in English or other harbors. ion of the States of Holland in regard to the Affairs of the W…

That the aforesaid Directors answered thereunto, that they had handed in their reasons in writing, to which they still adhered; and that the aforesaid Company could not exist, except by war. That the condition of the Company was such, that it improved from day to day, whereof they shortly expect intelligence; some of which they had communicated. The aforesaid Committee communicating their opinions…

We had truly wished that all the opinions of the respective Chambers in these United Netherlands, could be heard on this subject at the same time, and so considered by the High and Mighty Lords States General and his Highness the Prince of Orange, that both might thereby advance the interest of Fatherland and the prosperity of the Company; and that the Company might be maintained, as we heretofore…

For, howbeit, we trust that the enemy's persevering endeavors to be freed from the arms of this Company in the West Indies, is a clear and irrefragible argument of the service which it is daily conferring on this State, whilst the latter seems, nevertheless, not to greatly esteem or consider it ; yet the following Deduction will serve more strongly to confirm those who have duly comprehended the i…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : IL 63 Elephants' teeth, Tobacco, Brazil and other woods, Salt, Gums, etc., from the exportation of which to other countries the State had the benefit of large duties. Thirdly: By the increase of the Trade and Wealth of the Commonalty. The said Company brought into the country a very large amount of gold and silver, both coined and uncoined; exported a vast quantity of all sorts…

The Company maintains and employs a large number of seamen, who, otherwise, would not find any work, and fits them for divers situations, even the highest in the State. Fifthly: Regarding the aid afilbrded to the Country. Particularly, wlien the enemy invaded the Veluwe, the Company supplied the common people with ammunition and provisions, so that its fleet, destined for Brazil, was thereby detai…

Forced the said King to great expence of fleets, to be sent to Brazil, whence his sugars used heretofore to be brought home without any trouble, and whilst he lay asleep; and his revenue collected without any cost. Item. Prevented the Portuguese, by the continual cruizing of our ships on the coast of Brazil, from bringing over their sugars and other produce; twenty-three per cent of which, when im…

Obliged him to change his usual seasons, and to let his ships come over at unusual and unfavorable periods of the year, whereby a rich fleet from New Spain was, last year, almost entirely lost; and (as far as we can ascertain) his last year's fleet, which otherwise ought to have been in before the winter, hath not as yet arrived up to the present time; by all which his treasury is so exhausted, an…

And that with greater ease and much more effectually than heretofore, first, because it now possesses, in Brazil, the most important points in that country, and the most convenient that could be selected in all America ; as the entire world, and even the enemy best knows. Secondly, because it has ascertained by great outlay and long experience, where the King's power in America is weakest, and how…

We can herein prescribe in no wise to your Great Mightinesses, nor be of use any longer than is agreeable to this State. But this we must, in virtue of our office, lay in all submission, before your Great Mightinesses, that the Company, so far as the interest of its stockholders is concerned, can without great loss, be easily brought to this negotiation, by money or goods for its contracts, such a…

Also, that those who, in that operation, pretended to have been most clear sighted, were of the opinion that the countries of the West Indies were not so thickly settled and planted by our enemies, but that trade could be established with divers people and Nations ; colonies carried emoluments derived therefrom over, plantations of divers profitable products promoted, and similar to what our enem…

And in regard to trade, experience hath by degrees, made us wiser, and taught us, that it is very meager and indifferent with the people and nations who are still independent of the King of Spain ; also, that the countries still unoccupied, are for the most part unproductive and of little value, and those which have been found good and productive, being greatly encumbered by timber, &c., are very …

But in order that your Great Mightinesses may be thoroughly informed herein, and understand the condition of the countries yet unoccupied by our enemies, we shall, with this view, explain to you. High and Mighty, more minutely our limits in the West Indies, together with the extent and condition thereof. The limits granted to us by your High Mightinesses begin, on the North, at New France, the bou…

96 NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. settled by the English, and Florida, so far as it is adapted to trade, by the Spaniards. The large Islands are occupied by the Spaniards the small are difficult of access; their condition ; as yet but little known, and some of the best of all the roadsteads are in the possession of the French and English in addition to this, the English lay claim to all the Cari…

(inasmuch as they feel no desire for clothing, and require no necessaries for their subsistence) that all the trade which exists there, can easily be carried on with two or three ships a year, and be maintained with trifling Capital. The country is bounded by the great river of the Amazons, which also, is not free from Spanish settlements, as our people have experienced to their damage. Next follo…

Indies, open to the Company for trade or cultivation; wherefore, from the commencement of our administration, we preferred to proceed in a warlike manner against the common enemy; the rather, because we found that even the few nations (whether situate far or near) who are independent of the King of Spain, could be brought to trade with us in no other way than by declaring themselves in our favor, …

But this prosecution of war, instead of commerce, has not been undertaken by us, of our own mere motion, but principally by the advice of the High and Mighty Lords States General, and the concurrence of his Serene Grace, the Prince of Orange; for your Great Mightinesses will well remember, that from the very inception of the Company, we have all been solicited by their High Mightinesses' Commissio…

We, therefore, confidently, and of our certain knowledge, do assert, that the entering into a Truce, must be the ruin of this Company; and that your High Mightinesses will for ever lose the fortunate prop of this State, and the great decrease of your hereditary enemy's finances; for, let us by means of commerce be much greater than we can yet imagine, not a straw can the enemy be weakened thereby;…

The stockholders will be discouraged; the shares will fall in value; many will sell out; as some have already done, and daily continue to do; even of those who, up to this time, have conferred lustre on this Company. We earnestly trust that neither their High Mightinesses, nor iiis Serene Grace, will suffer this, nor unnecessarily surrender so great an advantage to the enemy; but, rather, that the…

Foreign princes, whose good successes were both to be desired and feared, were voted these past years heavier subsidies; these were not grudged to those from whom this State hath heretofore derived but little advantage, all for the purpose of creating a diversion, and weakening the enemy; with what excuse then will men be able to cover their neglect or disregard of a Company, which, out of its own…

Whichever b(! resolved upon, the Company must necessarily come into consideration. The enemy who intrudes herein, seems not disposed to come to any conclusion, before and until the Company be taken off his neck, and the captured places restored on certain conditions. We are not afraid that their High Mightinesses will concur with the foe in this ; but, indeed, that those who most affect the truce,…

And. meanwhile, your Great Mightinesses are humbly requested to take into consideration the Charter the High and Mighty Lords States General have granted us, which attracted stockholders not only in this country, but also among many of the confederates, and how it will be possible to answer the one or the other before the world ; also, to pay due attention to the placards lately promulgated in Bra…

Points of Reference on which all the Chambers of the West India Company are summoned to Amsterdam for the IS"" March, 1634, extracted as far as relates to New Netherland. e"- Point. Inasmuch as the differences with the proprietors of Colonies of New Netherland were postponed at the last meeting, the members shall be reminded to come with mature deliberation, in order to terminate this matter at …

Which being considered, it is hereby resolved and decided to request and appoint Mess" Arnhem, Herberts de Knuyt, Weede, Lecklama and Haersolte to hear and understand both sides, pro and con, respecting their differences; and afterwards to decide said differences as, by plurality of votes, shall be found most agreeable to justice; and in case of the absence of the one party or the other, their Hig…

And the 22'' instant having been fixed plurality of votes, shall find and appointed by our commissioners for that business; we have therefore resolved to notify you thereof, requesting that your delegates, together with the authorized principal stockholders, may be here at the Hague on the evening of the 21" instant, with full powers and instructions, in order to appear on the following day before…

And tlie 22'' instant having been fixed and appointed by the said Lords, our Deputies, as the day for the business; we have therefore resolved to notify you thereof, commanding you to attend here at the Hague, duly provided in all things, as the case requires, on the evening of the 21" instant, in order to appear on the next day, for the purposes aforesaid, before the above mentioned Lords, our de…

Read a letter from the Directors of the West India Company at Amsterdam, West India Com- gf i|-|e gQ"' instaut, requesting, for reasons therein set forth, that the appearance Planters. before their High Mightinesses' Deputies, whereunto they are summoned for the 22'* instant, may be postponed for eight days or more. Whereupon it is resolved, to hand the aforesaid letter to Messrs. Arnhem and other…

[ From the Minute In the Royal Archives at the Hague. File, West Indie. ] To the Patroons, planters in New Netherland. The 10"" June, 1634. The States. differences existing with those of the West India Company, respecting the Colonies and their rights in New Netherland. And whereas the day must be postponed at the request of those of the West India Company, we have accordingly adjourned it unti…

Joachimi to the States General. [ From the Original, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague ; File, Engelcmd. ] High and Mighty Lords. Mess" William Clobery, David Morehead and Johan de la Barre, merchants here in London, having fitted out a ship to trade on Hudson's river, as they call it, have been prevented to traffic there, and in that vicinity, by the Officers of the Dutch West India Company. …

Some months ago, disputes about boundaries broke out here, in presence of the King and his Majesty's Council, between those who have the King's Charter for Virginia and those who sail to and colonize New England. A noble Lord, who regrets to perceive that there is any misunderstanding between the English and Dutch nations, has informed me, that the aforesaid disputes did not arise because the pers…

The merchant, or factor, of the ship in this case, is the same person that was factor to the French ship of Caen ; respecting which the Directors of the East India Company several years ago, had trouble. Your High Mightinesses' letter of the xvii March, with the M. Oxensterne's proposal, and the pieces thereunto belonging, and another of the xxi of the aforesaid month, respecting the two Scots ski…

John Delabarr, in the monethes of November and December, Anno domini 1632 iaste paste, did freighte and victual! the interr'* Shippe, called the William of London (vyhereof William Trevore was Master) and did lade diverse goodes abord her, to be transported in the said Shippe to Hutsons baye, adioyninge unto Virginia. W'in his Mnjesties dominions there to be traded w"" and trucked awaye w"" the Na…

And there Jacob Jacobson Elkins, the merchants factor, and some others of the Companye wente on shoare and pitchte his tente and carryed divers goodes with them to trade with the natives of those places for beavers and other furrs. But the Dutch foUoweth them upp the said river, and would not suffer thsm to trads there; but went on shoare, and pulled downe ds said factors tent, and carried the goo…

And afterwards the Dutch goings abord the said shippe, they weighed her anchors and inforced her companye to depte with the said shippe out of the said river, and went downe the river with them to sea They should not trade there, and the said merchants factor (as he tould this exaidate and others of the said shipps' companye) desired a certificate from ths Dutch of their carriage towards the compa…

aforesaid, the voyage of the said shippe the William was quite overthrowen, and the merchants that sett her forth, have thereby susteyned losse and dammage (as this deponent beleeveth to the value of foure thousand poundes sterlinge att the least with they meighte there have gott in trade with the natives in those places, if they had bine suffered to trade, and had trucked awaye all theirs godes, …

To the second hee sayeth, that the said shippe the William arived and entred into Hutson's river in the moneth of Aprill last past, which is in the latitude of ffourtie degrees and twentye minutes or thereaboutes, and about three dayes after her arrivall there, the Dutch there inhabitinge send and commannded all her companye (excepte one boye) to come to their forte, where they stayed about twoe h…

The Indians were a greate deale more willinge to trade with them then with the Dutch, which the Dutch perceavinge they forbadd, and would not suffer the said Jacobson Elkins and the rest of the Companye of the said shippe the William to trade there any longer, but inforced her Companye to take theire goodes, which they had landed, to trucke awaye with the said Indians, and putt as manye of them as…

The Dutch commannded him to bee goone from thence with the saide shalloppe unto the tent, where the rest of his Companye were. Whereuppon this deponent desired a note under the hand of the Governor of the said forte, that hee was forced to depte from thence with the said shalloppe. Otherwise (he tould them) the merchants would not give him his wages. And then the said Governor sett his hand to suc…

And further he cannott depose, savinge he sayeth, that the Governors name of the upper forte, belonginge to the Dutch, was one Master Huntum.^ To the third he sayeth, that by reason of the wrongs and injuries, donne by the Dutch unto the conipanye of the said shippe the William, the voyage of the said shippe was quite overthrowne, and the merchants which sett her forth and freighted her, have the…

Tho the ffirst interrye : bee sayeth, that the shippe the William of London ( whereof William Trevore was master) was victualled and sett forth by master Cloberye, master Morehead and master Delabarr, of London merchants, and they laded diverse goods abord her for a voyage, to be made by her to Hutsons river in America, betweene Virginia and New England, within the dominions of the King of England…

But the said merchants factor, named Jacob Jacobson Elkins, tould the Governor of the said fforte, that that land was the King of Englands lande, and they (: meaning the companye of the said shippe) were subiects, and therefore would trade there. And after they had stayed three dayes by the said fforte by the commannde of the Governor, they weighed their anchors and wente further into the said riv…

But the said factor replyed, that they were the Kinge of Englands subiectes, and that that land was within the dominions of the Kinge of England. And therefore they would trade there. Whereuppon the Dutch pulled downe the said tent, and tooke all the goodes, which were in the said tent, and sente them, together with the factor and the rest of the Englishe, which were on shoare abord the said shipp…

had sustened them to trade freely there, and that they had trucked awaye all the goodes, which they carried thither, att the rate that they trucked awaye the rest they mighte have had in trucke for the said goodes, which they were inforced to bringe away from thence in beaver skinnes, furrs and other commodities, to the value of foure thousand poundes Sterlinge att the leaste and this hee sayeth i…

To the Second interroye hee sayeth, that the said shippe arrived att Munhaddons fort in : Hutsons river uppon or about the thirteenth day of Aprill last past, where all the said shippes Companye (excepte one boye) were commannded to come on shoare att the said fforte. And after the said shippe goinge further upp in the said river to trade with the natives of those places, for beaver and furrs. T…

And when they came upp to the said tent, they would not suffer the said Jacob Elkins (whoe was well knowne both to the Dutch and to the Indians) to trade there; but pulled downe a part of his tente, and inforced the said factor to send part of the goodes, which he had landed for trade, in the said shalloppe abord the said shippe the William, and the rest of the said goodes together with the said f…

To the third hee sayeth, that the voyage of the said shippe the William was quite overthrowne by reason that the Dutch would not suffer her Companye to trade as aforesaid And the merchants that sett her forth, are thereby dampnified to the some of foure thousand poundes sterlinge att the least, as hee verily beleeveth, for (hee sayeth) if they had traded for and trucked awaye all the goodes, which…

To the ffirste interreye : hee sayeth, that in the monethes arrived the shippe the William of London (whereof William Trevore was master) was victualled and sett forth att the charges of William Cloberye, David Morehead and John Delabarr, of London raerchantes. And there were diverse goodes, laden abord by them, to be transported in the said shippe to Hutsons river which is scituate between Virgin…

And he replyed, that they intended to goe upp further into the river, to trade with the natives of those places, as it was lawful! for them to doe, beinge the King of Englantes subiects. But the said Governor tould the saide factor, that hee could not suffer them to passe: for (as hee sayde) it was more then he could answere to his masters att home; and therefore he would take some time to advise …

And presently thereuppon parte of the goodes, which the merchant and other of the companye had landed for to trade, were broughte abord the said shippe againe by her owne shallopp, and the saide merchants factor and the rest of the companye, which were there on shoare, and the rest of the said goodes were broughte abord her by the Dutch, in theire owne boate; and then the Dutch weighed the anchors…

And hee also sayeth that there was a note sett upp againste the gate of the cheife forte there, the effecte of which note (: as a fHemminge that belonged to that fforte tould this deponent :) was, that the Governor did thereby straightlye chardge and commannde all his people, that uppon paine of loosinge theire head and all theire wages, none of them should give any certificate to the Englishe, ho…

And another nation, called the Mahiggins, would come downe thither with three hundred skinnes more, every merchantable beaver skinne, beinge worth twentye shillinges at the leaste. Dicto die. John Johson of the parishe of Saint Botolphes Algate, London cittizen, and cordwayner 6. of London, aged about 4-5 yeares, sworne before the wor"" William James, doctor of lawes, surrogate to the righte w…

And afterwards wente further upp into the river to trade, and there Jacob Jacobson Eikins, the factor of the said shippe (whoe was well knowne to the Dutch and also to the Indians) wente on shoare together with this deponente and some other of the said shippes companye, and landed diverse goodes to trucke with the Indians, and erected a tent for themselves to lodge in, and putt their goodes in, an…

And afterwards the Dutch weighed the said shippes anchors, and broughte them abord her, and commannded the companye of the said shippe to departe the said river; and further hee cannott depose. To the thirth hee sayeth, that by the injuries and wronges, done by the Dutch as aforesaid, the voyage of the said shippe the William was overthrowne ; and accordinge as the companye of the said shippe, aft…

To the first interreye. hee sayeth, that within the time interrogate William Clobery, David Morehead and John de la Barr, of London merchants, att their owne proper costs and chardges did freighte, victuall and sett forth the interrogate shippe, the William of London (whereof William Trevore was master) and did lade diverse goodes abord her, with intent, that she sould goe to Hutsons river in New …

To the second hee sayeth, that the said shippe, the William arrived att the forte, called Manhatton, als Amsterdam, in the said Hutsons river, uppon the twelvth daye of Aprill, last past ; and sayeth, that the entrance of the said river is in the latitude of fourtie degrees and a halfe or thereaboutes, and in longitude aboud one and fortie degrees and a halfe. And after theire arrival! neere that …

And then the said Governor asked hira for his Commission, whereunto this deponente answered, that he was not bound to shewe it, for that he was then within the King of Englands dominions, and for that he was a servante to the subiectes of the said Kinge; and desired of them to see what Commission they had, to plante there, within the King of Englands dominions. And the said Governor replyed, that …

Governor, if he would not give him his good will soe to doe, hee would goe upp the said river without it, although it cost him his life. Whereuppon the Governor commannded all the companye of the said shippe to come on shoare. And in the presence of them all, the said Governor commannded, that the Prince of Orange his flagge should bee putt upp in the forte, and three peeces of ordnance to bee sho…

Whereuppon this deponente wente a mile belowe that forte, and there sett upp a tent, and carryed all theire goodes on shoare, and was in trade with the Salvages. And the Dutch sett upp a tent by the said englishe tent, to hinder theire trade as .much as they could. But this deponente beinge well acquainted with the Salvages (havinge heretofore lived foure yeare with them) them all came to trade wi…

And then the Dutch pulled downe the tente of the Englishe, and sente theire goodes abord, some in a shalloppe, belonginge to the William, and some in a bonte, belonginge to the Dutch; and then the Dutch weighed the anchors of the William, and carryed them abord her. And afterwardes the said shippe goinge downe the said river againe, when she came to Manhatlon fort, this deponente beinge there …

Which certificate was denyed him ; and the Governor caused a writinge, to be sett uppon the gate of that forte, thereby forbiddinge all his people uppon payne of death, to give any certificate to him or any of the Englishe, howe and in what manner they were used by the Dutch. And he also sayeth, that the names of some of the Dutch, which were principal! actors in doinge of the wronges and iniur…

have had trucke for all the remainder of the said goodes, if the Dutch had suffered them to trade there; for that there are in the said river usually fifteene or sixteene thousand beaver skinnes yearly traded lor; and for that the Salvages would not trade with the Dutch, as longe as this deponente was there. But did all resorte unto him ; and for the reasons aforesaid, hee sayeth that the said mas…

Resolution of the States General referring tlie preceding Documents. [ From Ihe Eesister of Resolutions of the States General, in tlie Koyal Arcbives al llie Hague. ] Tuesday, 13 June, 1634. Folio 493. Received a letter from Mr. Joachimi, written at London on the 27"' May last, Messrs. Joachimi andBrasser. also a letter from the same and Mr. Brasser, written conjointly, as aforesaid, the 3'' ins…

Beaumont in place of Mr. de Knuyt, and Mr. Staackmans in place of Mr. Lecklama, in consequence of the absence of both of them ; and that, for the purpose of aiding in the despatch of business, the other, their High Mightinesses' deputies iu the matter in difference West iniiia Company between the Directors of the West India Company on the one part, and the 15* °' Patroons, planters of New Netherla…

Wf8t India Com- Wcst India Company of this country, whereby they maintain to have been '"'°^' injured ; claiming damages for their loss. Which being taken into consideration. HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : IL 83 it is resolved and concluded, that this matter shall, by extract hereof, be communicated to the present Directors, deputies o( the aforesaid Company, in order that they cause information to be tak…

Whereas, in pursuance of the resolution dated 27th March, 1634, adopted at the Assembly of the XIX., and the petition presented to your High Mightinesses and posliled {graixisiillecrt), the Patroons of New Netherland are, by their High Mightinesses' letters dated 13th May following, cited to appear at the Hague; the Patroons have deemed it expedient to submit to your High MiglUinesses: That your …

Maese Chamber, should successively be supplied by the principal stockholders of the respective ; 84 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Chambers, leaving them to protect whatever regarded lliem and their right, both in the Assembly of the XIX. and in tiie aforesaid Chambers. The Company, reduced to this firm order and government, took specially to heart your High Mightinesses' motives contained in t…

The accounts having been frequently reviewed at the Assembly of the XIX.; the supfilies requisite for the planting having been compared with the returns received from the Colonies, it was finally decreed and enacted, at the Assembly of the XiX., on the 10"" March, 162S, in the presence of your High Mightinesses' deputies, the Directors delegated by the respective Chambers, the Directors and assess…

Whereupon some Directors of the before named Company, in addition to the great interest they possessed with their next friends in the said Company, (who imported [to the value of] more than two tons of gold;) anim.ited with new zeal to carry out their High Mightinesses' intention, and hoping in consequence for God's blessing, preceded all the other stockholders by way of a good example, saving the…

So that on the 2S"' November, 1630, were read at the Assembly of the Directors, the deeds of conveyance of the lands and jurisdictions purchased from the Saccimaes, the Lords of the HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IL 85 Country, executed for the behoof of the Patroons, their successors; and the new proprietors were accordingly thereupon congratulated. On the 2'' December, in tlie year aforesaid, the patents s…

Confiding fully in the before related acts and solemnities, the Patroons would never have incurred any expense, had they ever imagined that the Freedoms and Exemptions, which were a mutual contract of profit and loss, agreed to by their High Mightinesses' Deputies, the Directors of the respective Chambers, the Directors and Assessors of the principal Stockholders, and accepted and entered on by th…

commanded to perform things which experience taught them were impracticable: Yea, all the Exemptions were drawn into dispute. 2S May, 1632. Some of the principal stockholders suggested to them to bring in gravamina against the amended freedoms. 1 June, 1632, is drawn up and enacted a certain placard, purporting, as it appears, to be in favor of the Patroons, against private individuals carrying …

The Director had no sooner arrived in New Netherland, than he proceeded against the Patroons pursuant to the orders given him. 86 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Whereupon the Patroons were under the necessity of submitting their grievances to the Assembly of the XIX., and it was mutually agreed to refer all differences arising therefrom, to their High Mightinesses' decision. The Patroons have a…

That in the Exemptions and Freedoms, mention only was made of the property of those lands of which the Company could, by virtue of its charter, dispose; and such extension is considered as referring alone to the fertile and uninhabited lands, or lands on which settlements were found of particular Indians, having no chief, whom the Patroons were bound to satisfy for the soil : In addition to these,…

understood such merchandise, without which the permitted trade along the coast of Florida and Newfoundland, cannot be carried on, nor the soil of the Patroonships paid for. Item, shoes and stockings and other necessaries of the people, not in use among the natives of the country, ought to be among the indispensable articles for agriculture, of use only to the tenants of the Patroons; every descrip…

XV., first absolutely, and afterwards by restriction, reserved the fur trade every where on the coast of New Netherland and tiie places circumjacent thereto, the Patroons say, that the inland trade, together with the territories of the patroonships, is not included therein; and, therefore, that the Patroons are not obligated to pay, within their limits, one guilder on each merchantable skin. Item,…

X. and XVL, is obliged here, and by its servants in New Netherland, to give seasonable notice to the Patroons and their commissaries, when requested, of the places which remain vacant in its ships, in order that they may regulate themselves in regard to their people, goods, cattle and implements; and having accommodation in their ships, it is not at liberty to refuse the Patroons the freighting th…

That the Freedoms and Exemptions, are permanent for all partners, without the Company having the power to infringe or restrict them, to the prejudice of the Patroons. 13. That the expenses of traveling, consultations, fees &c., incurred or to be incurred by the Patroons, for the maintenance and justification of the Freedoms and Exemptions, for the service of the Company and advantage of all part…

And on the Patroons' Superior Officers being arrested therefor, which we protest against, should ever be adjudged that their Patroons have lost the granted Freedoms, such it proceedings shall be declared null and void; the Company charged in future to abstain from such practices, and to make good the damage caused thereby. 16. Finally, in case the Company seek, by direct or indirect means, to …

The Directors of the West India Company say, that heretofore eachPatroon of the Colonies in New Netherland, hath given in his separate remonstrance to the Assembly of the Nineteen, with request that the aforesaid Assembly dispose thereof; it can therefrom be seen that the pretensions of the aforesaid Patroons ditfer, and are even erected on different foundations, so that they cannot be well, nor s…

Nevertheless, if the aforesaid Patroons declare that they have no particular claim against the aforesaid Company, and will not institute any action on account thereof, and desire and expect only a decision on the general points which concern the aforesaid Patroons conjointly ; the Directors will not make any opposition to the examining and deciding the claim regarding the said general points by th…

90 NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. the said Patroons, communicated in writing to your High Migiitinesses, they say in reply to it As the foundation of the suit which they may institute, in proper time, against the above named Directors, for indemnification of such damages and losses as they respectively shall happen to have suffered, because the aforesaid Directors have not allowed, nor suffered, t…

the Pretension and Claim of the Patroons is directed to that and to no other end; in order that such judgment being delivered, the act being one of wrong and affecting all the Patroons in common, then the Patroons will have to state their respective losses and damages, and adopt pertinent conclusion thereon; the rather as, after the rendition of the aforesaid judgment, they shall have conjointly t…

And for these reasons, rejecting the dilatory notice of the aforesaid Directors, the abovenamed Patroons respectfully request your High Mightinesses to be pleased to order the aforesaid Directors to answer, peremptorily, their aforesaid declaration; and in default thereof, that your High Mightinesses would be pleased to render your judgment on the articles contained in the aforesaid petition, in s…

It is after previous deliberation, resolved and concluded, to postpone this mattter for tveelve days; and parties shall, in the meanwhile, endeavor to settle their differences by agreement and mutual accord and if not, their High Mightinesses will, at the end of the aforesaid time, have the said difference decided by their Deputies agreeably to the aforesaid resolution of authority thereunto grant…

To the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands. High and Mighty Lords. The year 1634 approaches now to a close, and the West India Company hath not, up to the present time, received the vote of the subsidy demanded by the Council of State, many months since, for its support for that year. Notwithstanding the Deputies from the XIX. have, with such great persistence, applied t…

Of this we must, with all submission, warn your High Mightinesses; unless your High Mightinesses procure a vote of the required subsidies, and move the respective provinces, so that they will be received more promptly than heretofore, we see no prospect of meeting any longer the heavy expenses of the war. The great work in Brazil, which is now so far advanced, that an end to it is, in a manner, pe…

May be pleased so to influence the respective Provinces that, finally, the required vote of subsidies may be obtained, if not more, at least in the same form as was demanded by the Council, and the effect thereof be realized as promptly as necessity requires. So that we may prosecute with renewed courage, and complete, with God's blessing, successfully our begun work, for the benefit of this State…

WMt India Com- ^j. ^^^ West India Company, lately hoiden at Amsterdam, requesting, for the reasons therein set forth, that their High Mightinesses would be pleased so to influence the respective provinces, that the West India Company may finally obtain the desired votes of Subsidy. subsidy for this current year. 1634, as prayed for by the general petition of the Council of State, for the behoof o…

Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded, on the first point, that the respective Deputies going to the provinces, with their High Mightinesses' credentials, shall also be instructed, as they are hereby directed, to encourage not only the vote and furnishing of the subsidy for the West India Company'for the current year, to the amount expressed in the general petition of the …

William Klobery and his assistants, with the ship, the William, whereof William Trevor was master, did in the past year 1633, In the month of April, come to the North River, in New Netherland, [opposite the island] of the Manhattes, in order to exchange his [merchandise] up that river for peltries and other [products.] And that under the feigned pretense that said river and adjacent country were…

Likewise, that one or more little forts were built, also under your High Mightinesses' chief jurisdiction, even before the year 1614, and supplied with people for the security of the said trade Further, that after these countries had passed into the hands of the incorporated West India Company, not only were the above named forts renewed and enlarged, but said Company purchased from the Indians, …

so: who] lately by false [representations] sought to persuade his Majesty of Great Britain, that those countries of New Netherland were a part of his domains in that quarter of North America. And although our Governor and officers there advised the aforesaid Jacob Elkens, in a friendly manner, to refrain from trading within their jurisdiction, yet he went, notwithstanding, higher up the river, and…

Whether it would not be best to communicate this matter to the Mr. William Boswel, the King of Great Britain's agent. In order to discover means whereby, first, this question, which is reasonable, may, by the intervention of his Honor on the one side, and Ambassador Joachimi on the other, be settled in a friendly manner; inasmuch as no suit has, so far as we know, been entered, up to the present t…

Mess" Arnhem and the other, their High Mightinesses' Deputies have reported that, pursuant to yesterday's resolution, they have heard and considered the state of the Difflcnity in New ^uestion and difference which arose in New Netherland between the English Netherland. ^^^^^ ^^^ ^^^^^ ^f ^^^ ^^^^ y^j^j^ Company of these United Netherlands, and have submitted herewith to their High Mightinesses ce…

New Project of Freedoms and Exemptions. [ From the MS., wiihout date, in the Eoyal Arcliives at the Hague ; File, entitled We»t Indit, 1680--1635. ] Freedoms, Privileges and Exemptions, granted by the High and Mighty Lords States General, ex plenitudine potes/alis, to all persons of condition, inhabitants of these countries, to be qualified thereunto by their High Mightinesses, as Lords and P…

And in case of offensive or defensive operations, they must lend assistance the same as others; and if any of the enemy's ships be captured, they shall also receive their share, pro rata, according to each person's quality; to wit, those not eating in the cabin the same as seamen, and those who board in the cabin, a share equal to that of the superior officers, calculated one with another. 3. He…

And from the very moment that the Lords and Patroons of New Netherland have designated the places where they wish to plant their Colonies, and have obtained admission thereto from their High Mightinesses, they shall be preferred before all others, for such lands as they have selected. But if they are not afterwards pleased with the places, or be deceived in the selection of the land, they shall h…

And in propriety forever and always possess all the land situate within the Patroons' limits, together with all the fruits, superficies, minerals, rivers and fountains thereof, for them, their heirs or assigns, with high, middle and low jurisdiction, tenths, fishing, fowling, wind and [water] mills and all other privileges, preeminences and rights, to be holden as free, allodial and patrimonial pr…

And they are empowered to send in the Company's ships, all their people and property bound thither, on paying for board as is hereinbefore stated in Article 1"; for freight of the merchandise, 5 per 100 cash on what the said goods have cost in this country; not including herein, however, cattle and agricultural implements, which the Company shall convey over for nothing; wherefore they shall reser…

The Patroons shall, at all times, be privileged to send their own ships to New Netherland; and in going and returning, to attack, and conquer, offensively and defensively, the enemies of this state, and to secure thereby the same right as the Incorporated West India Company enjoys. 17. The Patroons of New Netherland shall have the privilege of sailing and trading along the whole coast, from Flor…

On the arrival of such wares here in the ships of the West India Company, there shall be paid for the freight of each merchantable skin, whether otter or beaver, one guilder; and on all bulky articles, such as pitch, tar, ashes, timber, grain, fish, salt, rosin or such like, tea guilders per last (estimated at 4000 lbs.), on condition that the Company's seamen shall be obliged to wheel and bring t…

No person shall be at liberty to take from the service of the Patroons any of their Colonists, whether man, woman, son, daughter, maid-servant, or man-servant, even though solicited by the Colonists themselves to receive them (except by written consent of their Patroons), during the term of years for which they are bound to their Patroons; after the expiration of which time, the Patroons shall be …

They shall be privileged, also, to send their ships every v?here to fish, and so to go, with what has been caught, to all neutrals and friends of this State. 25. And if any Colonist belonging to a Patroon happen to discover minerals, precious stones, crystals, marble, pearl fishery or such like, they shall remain the Patroon's property, provided he allow such discoverer, as a premium therefor, s…

The Patroons shall also particularly exert themselves to find speedy means to maintain a Clergyman and Schoolmaster, in order that Divine Service and zeal for religion may be planted in that country ; and send, at first, a Comforter of the sick thither. 29. The respective Patroons shall be privileged to keep an agent at the Island Manhattes, who shall attend as a member of Council there, and hav…

In like manner, the Incorporated West India Company shall allot to each Patroon twelve Black men and women out of the prizes in which Negroes shall be found, for the advancement of the Colonies in New Netherland. 300 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. The Incorporated West India Company undertakes to maintain the fort and stronghold on the Island of Manhatten, in good defence and garrison, and to a…

are summoned to Amsterdam on the 1" of June, 1636, extracted so far as relate to the affairs of New Netherland. Exhibited 24"" May, 1636. 7"" Point. They shall also come prepared to resume and, if necessary, amend the order for the Director of New Netherland, Curasao, Cape de Verde, Senegal, Gambia, Sierra Leone, the Wild Coast, Fernando Noroncho and the Colonies planted here and there, and for t…

Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded, that the aforesaid petition, with the papers annexed, be sent to the Directors in the aforesaid Chamber, in order to afford the petitioner satisfaction; or, in default thereof, to inform their High Mightinesses of the true circumstances and correct state of the petitioner's case, in order, on seeing it, that further proceedings be had…

Resolution of the States General on another Petition of Mr. Van Dindagen. [ From the Kegister of Resolutions of the States General, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague. ] Monday, 6th October, 1636. Folio 774. On the further petition of Lubbertus van Dinclagen, late advocate-fiscal Dindagen.' ' and sheriff in New Netherland, It is, after previous deliberation, resolved and concluded that this pe…

Monday, 20"' October, 1636. Foiio8i9. Received a letter from the Directors of the Amsterdam Chamber of the West West India Com- , ,_ pany- India Company, in answer to their High Mightmesses' letter, written in the case of Lubbertus Van Dinclagen, late fiscal and sheriff in New Netherland. Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded that the aforesaid letter shall be handed to pa…

Van Beveren to ihe States General. [ From the Original in the Royal Archives at the Hague ; File, West Indie. ] High and Mighty Lords. My last to your High Mightinesses is of the 27"" March. The letters &c. I fear the delay in terminating the Treaty with France has caused the granting of a certain patent to Captain Kercke and his associates : to wit, that his Majesty has given to the aforesaid …

Thursday, the 30"' April 1637. Folio 272. The further petition of LubbertVan Dincklagen, late fiscal of New Netherland Kecommendation.' being again read to the Assembly, It is, after previous deliberation resolved and concluded that the Assembly of the XIX. of the West India Company be seriously written to, to satisfy the Petitioner. And their High Mightinesses' deputies, going to the aforesaid A…

Secondly, that on demanding his earned monthly wages, the Commissioners of New Netherland, who had previously thoroughly informed themselves of, and examined all the documents, allowed him all such sums of money as were afterwards tendered to him, without making any computation of the amount. Thirdly, that he, the petitioner, complaining to you, several persons were appointed from your body wi…

Wherefore, we having further examined the petitioner's case, find the same to be just, and therefore cannot and ought not omit hereby officially and earnestly to request, desire, and to exhort you once more for the third time, to cause, and let satisfaction be made him, after such long unfounded delays and postponements; and shall confidently rely on you no longer remaining in default herein, so t…

Director Elias de Raet appeared in the Assembly, with credentials from the Directors of the West India [Company] Chamber at Amsterdam, of the first instant, and WiiiiimKiefi. prayed their High Mightinesses that Commission do issue, and the oath be New Netherland. entered of WiLLEM KiEFT, to go in the stead of Wouter Van Twyler, as Director of New Netherland. Which being granted by their High Might…

Resolution of the States General directing a Register of West India Affairs to be hept. [ From the Eeglet«r of the West India Affairs, 1633--1651, in the Royal Archives at the Hague. ] Friday, 16 April, 1638. Folio 1. After deliberation, it is resolved and concluded, that henceforth all resolutions, letters or other writings, relating to the East India Company and also to the West India Company,…

Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded, that the aforesaid Remonstrance and Project be placed in the hands of their High Mightinesses' Deputies to the present Assembly of the XIX., here at the Hague, to be by them communicated to that Assembly, and further to manage and direct the affair there, so that proper resolution maybe taken thereupon, one way or the other, before …

Therefore their High Mightinesses, after previous deliberation, have resolved and concluded on the first point, hereby to instruct and authorize their deputies to the Assembly of the XIX., that in conjunction with the present delegates from the respective Chambers to said Assembly, they assist in making and enacting such order, that Divine Worship in Brazil be duly attended to,church ordinance and…

Report on the Condition of the Colony of New Netherland, in 1638. [ From the Original in the Koj-al A rchives at the Hague Loketkas of the Stales General : ; Division, Vest Indische Oompagnie, No. 8. ] leV^he^Aw^mbiy Whcreas the Lords States General obtain unreliable information on the h^beenVevS? affairs of New Netherland; that it is retrograding more and more, to the injury afore Jfd'to'ihe D…

We occupy Mauritius or the North River; where there are two forts, Orange and Amsterdam and there is, moreover, one House ^ built by the Company, and that is the most of the population. 3. If not, what nations have seized them; and by what right and under what pretext? The right, is that of the strongest. The English extend from the northeast of New England unto the Fresh River. 4. Can the Comp…

Whether it would not, therefore, be expedient to place the district of New Netherland at the disposal of the States General? They have no intention so to do; unless they derived profit by it. But they hope, now that they have taken some order about Brazil, that it will prove a source of profit in time. They propose to surrender the trade with the Indians, or something else. Nothing comes from NeV…

Your High Mightinesses will see, by the accompanying papers, the resolution of the Lords of the King's Council on my application to his Majesty respecting letters of reprisal granted to George Henley and his associates, also to Polhil, and regarding that of the intercourse. I have added thereunto copy of the answer of the Committee of the council of the ix March 1635. (that is, of the xix March 16…

Fori had not seen the aforesaid resolution, though I knew its contents. And whereas your High Mightinesses' affairs would be incommoded by the execution thereof; friends scandalized, and the enemy be furnished with cause to rejoice. I prayed his majesty to order the letters to be annulled, and to consider whether the execution thereof would not be prejudicial to the affairs of the Elector Count Pa…

That in the year 1633, William Clobery, David Morehead and John de la Barre cohiplained, that they were injured by some Dutchmen resident in New Netherland, who had obstructed them in their trade in those parts, as they represented. The aforesaid persons have demeaned themselves to this time very discreetly, and would not have voluntarily brought their complaints into court. In the following year,…

In my last of the xii instant, I wrote that a certain Judge had distinctly advised that, under present circumstances, the ship money may not be levied off the inhabitants of England, without consent of Parliament. It is since rumored, that a Divine, who hath a good prebend and visits the house of one of the aristocracy, had intruded into a chamber at Westminster where the Judges sat; among the res…

Said Roo told me that he is well assured of the good intention of the King, his master, and that he hopes to make quick business if the other ambassadors are as willing and as fully authorized as he. There is not so much opposition here to the double toll or custom which the King of Denmark exacts in the Sound from those who frequent the Bailie, as to the toll on the Elbe at Glukstad. Of the first…

The Spanish ambassador took his leave of the King to day. The Envoy from Morocco left London on Thursday last. The Lord High Admiral of England is very sick the virtuous wish he may recover. ; Herewith will this end and, after my humble salutations to your High Mightinesses, I pray God High and Mighty Lords, that He may bless your High Mightinesses' deliberations and government. Your Migh Might…

He was beheaded on the 9th March, 1649, a few weeks after his Royal Master had suffered the same fate, and died with undaunted courage. -- Ed. 'Sir Thomas Roe. 110 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Suhject of lieference for the Assembly of the XIX. 1638. [ From the Original in Ihe Royal Archives at the Hague ; File, West Itidie. ] Points of Reference on which all the Chambers of the West India …

Articles and Conditions drawn up and Report 2 Septemb'' 163S. published by the Chamber of Amsterdam, with the approbation of their High Mightinesses, Referred to Mess" Arnhem Noortuyn, the States General of the United Netherlands, Noortwyck, Weede, Priussen, Vosbergen, in conformity to the authority of theXIX on ; Donkel and Coenders, to view, examine and which the respective Lands and Places i…

The Company hereby retains to itself, and to such officers to whom it shall commit the execution thereof, all high and low jurisdiction, together with the exercise of this and other appendages of public affairs ; in order that its Governors, officers and all others employed by it, may administer, regulate, manage and execute the same, under their High Mightinesses, according to the instructions to…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : IL 111 it being inferred from this, that any person shall be hereby in any wise constrained or aggrieved in his conscience, but every man shall be free to live up to his own in peace and decorum ; provided he avoid frequenting any forbidden assemblies or conventicles, much less collect or get up any such ; and further abstain from all public scandals and offences, which the ma…

And in order that greater attention be paid to the cultivation and settlement of those countries, and that no one be excluded, by private possession and occupation, from the use of the public waters, creeks, bays and rivers, and from appropriating any islands, sandspits and dry marshes therein situate; all these shall belong first to the Company, which promises to make such arrangements, through t…

Expressly charging every officer to contribute actively and firmly hereunto in his station, as far as needs may be and that without ; any regard of person or persons, even though the matter be such as to concern the Company itself particularly; in which case the judges shall be specially bound to declare on oath, that they will not follow any other order or law, than such as all private persons …

And if they happen to transgress herein, they shall immediately be deprived of such offices and qualities as they may be invested with, and forfeit, moreover, their earned monthly wages and any purchased lands and goods which may be discovered contrary to this article in their possession, or the value thereof, should they have traded or conveyed those away; and the respective officers and justices…

The inhabitants shall be at liberty to build there for themselves, or for such others as shall instruct or commission them thereunto, all descriptions of craft, either large or small, and with such vessels and no others, ascend and descend all rivers, and prosecute their their lawful trade and barter, as well as trade therewith along the entire coast, from Florida to Newfoundland. And in case they…

And should any wares or merchandises from any neighboring place there, or from any other kingdom or country, be landed from any foreign ships on the coast of New Netherland and places circumjacent thereto, within the limits of our Charter and the Company's possessions, the said goods shall not be opened nor unloaded until they are duly entered, and the duties thereon paid; which, in consequence of…

The Company will take under its protection and safeguard, all those who resort to, or inhabit, said countries under the obedience of their High Mightinesses, the Lords States General; defend them against all assaults or attacks, coming either from within or without, with such force as it may at present have, or hereafter send, there: provided that every one, be he trader or inhabitant, who happens…

metals, precious stones, crystals, marble, or such like, they shall, if discovered on the finder's own land, remain his property, on returning, after five years, one-fifth part of the proceeds, without deducting any of the expenses; and that, before such minerals or beforementioned specie shall profit him, or be removed from the place where they may be found; but for such as may be discovered on a…

Whereas the Directors of the Incorporated West India Company, Chamber at Amsterdam, are authorized by resolution of the XIX., to promote and improve the trade and population of New Netherland; they, therefore, with the approbation of their High Mightinesses, hereby make known to all and every the inhabitants of this state, or its allies and friends, who may be disposed to take up and cultivate any…

And if any one happen to commit an error, in the valuation of his goods, the Company shall be at liberty to take such goods, paying one-sixth more than they are entered at; but all concealed and smuggled goods, either in this country or that, which may be discovered to have been brought on board the Company's ships, by secret plans or other cunning contrivances, shall be immediately forfeited and …

Which land, thus conceded to any person in the name of the Company, shall remain the property of him, his heirs or assigns, provided he shall pay to the Company, after it has been pastured or cultivated four years, the lawful tenths of all fruits, grain, seed, tobacco, cotton and such like, as well as of the increase of all sorts of cattle; of which property a proper deed shall be given, on condit…

All those who will be inclined to go thither, to inhabit the country or to trade, shall severally declare under their signatures, that they will voluntarily submit to these regulations, and to the orders of the Company, and shall allow all questions and differences there arising to be decided by the ordinary courts of justice, which shall be established in that country, and freely suffer there the…

It is, after previous deliberation, resolved and concluded that the aforesaid Articles and Conditions be placed in the hands of Mess" Arnhem, Noortwyck, Vosbergen, Weede, Pruyssen, Donckel and Conders, to view and examine them and to report. The said Deputies of their High Mightinesses may proceed forthwith thereupon. HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: II. 115 Re-solution of the States General^ on the precedbig…

Articles and Conditions be again returned to Sieur Johan de Laet, Director of the West India Company, to which is to be adjoined the aforesaid New Project, to be communicated to the Chamber of the West India Company at Amsterdam, and to tell it, on the part of their High Mightinesses, to send some deputies hither by Monday next, the vi"" instant, in order that the entire case of New Netherland may…

Points of Reference, whereon all the Chamber of the West India Company are summoned to Middleburg for the S?"" September, 1638 ; extracted so far as relate to the affairs of New Netherland. Exhibited, g"" September, 1638. 17"> Point. They shall come prepared to attend to, resume, and if necessary amend, the management of New Netherland, Curasao, Cape de Verd, Senegal, Sierra Leone, the Wild Coa…

Your High Mightinesses' letter, dated 31" December, 1638, with the annexed memorial of the Hon^'''= M'^ Spieringh, Resident of the Crown of Sweden, was handed to us on the 13"" instant, but the previous one, dated 25"' October, has not been received. As soon as we had seen the tenor of your High Mightinesses' said letter, we were prepared to obey your High Mightinesses' order and command, and with…

The quality of our confrere being made known to hini; he persisted in his previous answer, adding, I am no skipper, and the ship is going home to Sweden, and had her Majesty's letters; which being demanded, were refused to be shown. Whereupon, the pilot having departed, he returned shortly after, saying, Our skipper has just arrived. Which skipper being sent for, he answered. Whoever wants to spea…

after this information, all cause of dissatisfaction will be removed from the Hon'''* Resident's mind ; which you, High and Mighty Lords, will please to promote to the best of your power. Herewith, High and Mighty Lords, we pray God, according to our humble supplication, to be pleased to grant your High Mightinesses, a prosperous government, for the welfare of our dear Fatherland. Your High Mighti…

previous deliberation, resolved and concluded, that this remonstrance be placed in the hands of their High Mightinesses' Deputies, who are to preside at the approaching Assembly of the XIX. of the above named Company, at Middelburg, in Zealand, to the end that the petitioner, by their means and intercession, may be aided in obtaining reasonable satisfaction from the above named Company, in regard …

It is, after previous deliberation, resolved and concluded that their High Mightinesses' Deputies to the Assembly of the XIX., shall assist in deliberating, advising and concluding on the aforesaid points, as they shall find for the advantage of the country in general, and the West India Company in particular. But said Deputies are most especially enjoined to attend to the fifth point of the afore…

Further, their High Mightinesses have decided, in pursuance of their resolution of the 20"" September 1639, and the renewal thereof, v^hich follovped on the T"" November last, that the provinces of Guilderland, Zealand, Utrecht, Vriesland, and Overyssel, shall be again requested to consent to the augmentation of the capital which the States General invested in the aforesaid Company, and to introdu…

Whereupon, after deliberation, it is resolved and concluded that their High Mightinesses' Deputies, who are to attend the present Assembly of the XIX, shall there propose and urge free access to New Netherland for the said Count of Solms and other inhabitants of these countries, and for that purpose, that they bring over the Conditions which they were heretofore ordered to enact, that they be appr…

[ From the Original, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague ; File, VTe^t Indie. ] Freedoms and Exemptions granted and accorded by the Directors of the General Incorporated West India Company at the Assembly of the XIX., with the approbation of the High and Mighty Lords States General of the free United Netherlands, to all Patroons, Masters, or Private persons who will plant any Colonies or intro…

All good inhabitants of the Netherlands and all others inclined to plant any Colonies in New Netherland shall be at liberty to send three or four persons in the Company's ships going thither, to examine the circumstances there, on condition that they swear to the articles, as well as the officers and seamen, as far as they relate to them, and pay for board and passage out and home, to wit, those w…

For Patroons and Feudatories of New Netherland, shall be acknowledged all such as shall ship hence, and plant there a Colonic of fifty souls, above fifteen years of age, within the space of three years after having made a declaration and given notice thereof, to some Chamber of the Company here or to the Governor or Council there; namely, one-third part within the year, and so forth, from year to …

IGOO Rhineland perches) along the coast, bay, or a navigable river, and two contiguous miles landward in; it being well understood, that no two Patroonships shall be selected on both sides of a river or bay, right opposite to each other; and that the Company retains to itself the property of the lands lying between the limits of the Colonies, to dispose thereof hereafter according to its pleasure;…

with a pair of iron gauntlets, redeemable by twenty guilders within a year and six weeks, at the Assembly of the XIX., here, or before the Governor there; with this understanding, that in case of division of said fief or jurisdiction, be it high, middle or low, the parts shall be and remain of the same nature as was originally conferred on the whole, and fealty and homage must be rendered for each…

And should it happen that the dwelling places of private Colonists become so numerous as to be accounted towns, villages or cities, the Company shall give orders respecting the subaltern government, magistrates and ministers of justice, who shall be nominated by the said towns and villages in a triple number of the best qualified, from which a choice and selection be made by the Governor and Coun…

The Patroons and Colonists shall have the privilege of sending their people and property there in the Company's ships, on condition of swearing allegiance, and paying to the Company for the conveyance of the people, as in the first article, and for freight of the goods requisite for their bouvvery, five per cent on the cost of the goods here, without, howevei-, including herein the cattle, on …

shall provisionally be the staple of all produce and wares accruing on the North river and the country thereabout, before they can be sent further, except those which by nature itself are useless there, or cannot be brought there except with great loss to the owners, in which case the latter shall be bound to give timely notice of such inconvenience to the Company here, or to the Governor and Coun…

what may be sent in the Company's ships; and bulk will not be allowed to be broken any where except at the Manhattes, or such place as the Company here may order, so as to be at liberty, after proper inspection of their loading and the entry thereof, to depart to whatever place they think proper. And on the other wares which will be sent thence hither, shall be paid here, over and above the convo…

And in case said private ships, in going or coming, or in ranging along the coast from Florida to Newfoundland, happen to capture any prizes, they shall, in like manner be obliged to bring the same, or to cause the same to be brought, to the Governor and Council in New Netherland, or to the Chamber whence they respectively sailed, to be rewarded by them, and the third part thereof shall be retaine…

In like manner they shall not be at liberty to depart thence with their goods obtained in barter, without first returning to the said place, to enter their goods there and to obtain proper clearance, signed by the Governor and Council, and they shall be bound to return to this country, with their ships and yachts, to the place they sailed from, in order to discharge all their freight into the Comp…

The Company shall not take from the service of the Patroons or Colonists, their man servants or maid servants, even though some person should solicit it; nor receive them, much less suffer them to go from their master's service to that of another, during the term of such years as they are bound for ; and if any man servant or maid servant run away, or take his freedom contrary to contract, the Com…

All Patroons, inhabitants or Colonists, are also allowed to send ships along the coast of New Netherland and the countries circumjacent thereunto, to fish for Cod, &c., and to proceed with the catch straight to Italy or other neutral countries, on condition of paying to the Company for duty, in such case, six guilders per last, and on coming here with their freight, it shall be allowable and suffi…

If any Patroons, inhabitants or Colonists happen by their industry, diligence or otherwise to discover any minerals, precious stones, crystals, marbles, pearlfisheries or such like within the limits of their lands, all such Patroons and Colonists shall give one-fifth part of the nett proceeds to the Company, which for this purpose shall have the power to appoint one or more inspectors, at the char…

The particular Colonies which happen to lie on the respective rivers, bays or islands shall have the privilege (to wit, each river or island for itself) of designating a deputy who shall give the Governor and Council of that country information respecting his Colonic, and promote its interests with the Council ; one of which deputies shall be changed every two years, and all the Colonies shall be …

The Company shall, accordingly, appoint and keep there a Governor, competent Councillors, Officers and other Ministers of Justice for the protection of the good and the punishment of the wicked ; which Governor and Councillors, who are now, or may be hereafter, appointed by the Company, shall take cognizance, in the first instance, of matters appertaining to the freedom, supremacy, domain, finance…

" name, and on the behalf of, Kiliaen Van Renselaer, Patroon of his Colonie called Rensselaerswyck, situate on the north river of New Netherland ; praying approval of a certain order entered by the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company on 14"" November 1639 on the margin of the Petitioner's request, to be allowed accordingto article 7, to dispose of his, the Petitioner's, manor pr feudal es…

We have given, granted, allowed and conceded, and do of Our Sovereign power, by this Our letter, give, grant, allow and concede unto him, the petitioner, authority to dispose of, bequeath, and give directions concerning the aforesaid his fief, named Rensselaers-wyck, either by form of testament and last will and codicil, before a notary and witnesses, superintendents and vassals of the manor where…

We now, for tiien, have confirmed and ratified, by tliis, Our letter, do confirm, ratify and will, that it be maintained and perfected, and be valid and of good effect forever, and that whomsoever the aforesaid petitioner hath given the said manor, or a portion thereof, or assigned any rents or usufruct thereon to, he shall use the same according to the laws, statutes and customs of the place wher…

Wherefore We do request and order the aforementioned General Incorporated West India Company, to instruct and command the Governors, or Commanders and Council, who now are, or shall hereafter be in New Netherland, and moreover, all others whom it may in any wise concern, conjointly and each in particular, as it may behoove him, to maintain and perfect the testament, order and last will of the abov…

Extract of a Report made to the States General, of the business transacted at the Assembly of the XIX. of the West India Company, at Amsterdam, in the year 1642. Monday, 3"* March, J 642. Is also opened a paket of letters received from Cura§ao, through New Netherland, wherein is one from Jan Claessen van Campen, Director at Curagao, without date or place, with some enclosures. One from Director…

The Committee nominated on the S"* instant to examine the papers from New Netherland and Curagao, report that they are of opinion still to preserve the said places at the smallest expense possible, conforming to the letter of the Director there, dated 4"" July, the resolution of the XIX., and letter of the 20"" September, 1641, sent to the aforesaid Director by the ship the Brandaris, which the As…

My Lords, No notice has been taken in the House of Commons of what I communicated to some Lords on the xxii. and xxiii., from your High Mightinesses' letter of the twelfth instant, as I have understood from a Knight, a member of the same house, who is also of opinion that the alliance with Spain and the trade are wholly opposed to our proposal. Since my last of the xxv., some more cavalry have…

Letters are received from the Commissioners, who went on the part of both houses of Parliament to the King, that they had presented, on Saturday evening, the petition with which they had been dispatched, to his Majesty, who had taken it for examination. I have not yet learned the answer. If the Parliamentarians will be reconciled to the King, private complaints of the people against the Dutch, and…

In the following year he was dismissed from his office of Lord Chamberlain, whereupon the I'arliament appointed him to the command of their forces. He was then declared a traitor by the King, against whom he fought with various success, until the year 1645, when he resigned his commission. He died in September, 1646. ' WiLLLOi Russell, 5th Earl, and 1st Duke of Bedford, K. G., was born in 1614 cr…

The Directors of the West India Company have cognizance of the aforesaid complaints. On the xxiii. instant, I communicated to my Lord Seie above mentioned, information relative to the aforesaid memorial, copy whereof goes herewith. He requested that letters be written to the Dutch who are in New Netherland, to the end that our people, who have been complained of, may comport themselves in a peacea…

Appendix received from Mij Lord Saye. Read 9th August, 1642. [ From the Original in the Eoyal Archives at llie Hague ; File, West Indie.] Many of the English (his Majesty's Subjects) having been incorporated by his Majesty's letters patent and having, in order to obviate all difficulties, purchased the land from the natives, the acknowledged and right owners thereof, established divers factorie…

The Dutch sometimes, 'tis true, aver that they purchased from the Pequot Indians, a piece of land lying on the aforesaid river, to which, in virtue of that purchase, they pretend a right. But if any such purchase has been effected, which has never been proved, it is very well known that the Pequots had no just, but an usurped, title. And herein is apparent the weakness of their claim the English, …

Folio 76. Received a letter from Mr. Joachimi, their High Mightinesses' Ambassador in Heer Joachimi. England, Written at London the last of July; with an appendix containing complaints of several of the English against the Dutch people in New Netherland. Which Engush against the ^^Ging Considered, it is resolved and concluded that copy of the aforesaid S'S^wNetheSli! complaints of the English be s…

Joachimi to the States General. [ From the Original in the Eoyal Archive! at the Hague ; File, Engeland. ] High and Mighty Lords! My Lords! Your High Mightinesses have been able to gather from my despatch of the last of July, the latest informationI possessed respecting the matter I had submitted to some Lords, in ' Mr. de Zwaan says, of the Dutch M3. -- This piece " ia evidently a translati…

But that I had received neither letter nor complaint respecting what precedes. On the following day, I acquainted another Lord of the Upper House of what the aforesaid Earl had communicated to, and requested of, me; and added thereto, that, with his Lordship's permission, 1 should come at noon, or send to inquire what had been done regarding this affair. He said, I should send and he would communi…

Since, a report has been rendered by the Commissioners, who had been to the King, at Beverly, from the Parliament, to propose terms of accommodation to His Majesty, whereby the danger of a civil war might be avoided; people have been continually occupied in enlisting and mustering troops, both foot and horse. The city of London will furnish, and maintain for some months, it is reported, five thous…

And he declared, moreover, that those of the Parliament will uphold the King in good faith, and sincerely in his prerogative, dignity and rank. On the other hand, his Majesty requires, first of all, that Hull and the magazine be restored. That those of the Parliament do first dismiss the force they have raised, and place the militia, as well as the fleet, at his disposal. Moreover, that the Parli…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: II. 131 be done with Parliament, for the good of the nation. Some of the Commissioners' suite had heard some Cavaliers of the court wish the said Commissioners much bad luck, should they wait on the King for the purpose of malting peace. A printed copy of the King's answer accompanies this, by which your High Mightinesses will perceive, more clearly, the nature of his Majesty's …

use of it as occasion demands, and state decidedly every where, when the subject is mentioned, that your High Mightinesses will not meddle with the domestic difficulties of this kingdom, and that the government of the United Netherlands keeps itself neutral in this regard. I avoid as much as possible having any thing to do with the Parliament, and holding any conversation with the members thereof,…

For such orders must proceed from his Majesty, who might take it ill that the Houses of Parliament were applied to for a remedy, whose orders probably would not be acknowledged in that far distant quarter. In considering the aforesaid point, it is ( with submission), to be borne in mind, that the winter will be soon at hand, and that opportunities to go, or to send letters to those parts, do not o…

Herewith ending, I commend myself respectfully to your High Mightinesses, and pray God, High and Mighty Lords, that He may bless your High Mightinesses' Government more and more. Your High Mightinesses' London, the eighth of August, 1642. most obedient servant. Received IG"" of August, 1642. (Signed) Alb. Joachimi. P. S. The letter was entirely written when 1 received the printed replies to the…

And in what way to devise an effectual and good plan for the places in New Netherland regarding the Freedoms and peopling thereof, and, generally, in what manner the aforesaid conquests shall be resorted to and traded with. Robert Sidney, 2d Earl of Leicester, and brother-in-law of the Earl of Northumberland, was a man of great parts, very conversant in books, and much addicted to the mathematics…

He was sent ambassador to France, and afterwards to the United Provinces, in 162.5, in which country he had already made two or three campaigns, and in 1639, on the first insurrection of the Scots, was constituted General of the Horse in the expedition into that country. On the breaking out of the Rebellion, he endeavored to accommodate matters, and with that view, accompanied the Earl of Bedford …

Among the rest, to that of the complaint which the English of New England make against some of the Dutch Company in New Netherland. Were these to be once dislodged, they could not return there except with great difficulty. On the xviii. of August I also requested your High Mightinesses to be pleased to consider, in case the war proceed, whether theAmbassadors are at liberty to remain here, where t…

Another Message from his Majesty, or a reply to the aforesaid answer and the declaration made on the fifth of September thereon by the Lords and Commons in Parliament accompanies this despatch. Adjoined to them are two Journals of what had been done in the House of Commons during the week last past. In two or three days, we shall know what resolution the Lords of the Upper house will have adopted …

In the following year, he became one of the Lords of Trade ; in 1627 he was appointed one of the Commissioners to conclude an alliance with the States General, and in 1633 one of the Lords of the Admiralty. On the breaking out of the civil war he adhered to the King; superceded the Earl of Essex as Lord Chamberlain ; in 1646, he, with others of the Council, signed the capitulation for the surrende…

It will probably follow from this, that this place will surrender to them. Herewith humbly commending myself to your High Mightinesses, I shall conclude and pray God, High and Mighty Lords, that he may preserve and protect Fatherland. Your High Mightiness' London, the 17"' September, 1642. most humble servant. Received 27"' September, 1642. (Signed) Alb. Joachimi. 1642. P. S. News arrived, afte…

Against this the Parliament hath published a declaration, which is attached to the aforesaid agreement, commencing "fourteen articles of peace." Private letters have also been received from Lancaster stating that six standards have been presented to the King which were taken, in the rencontre above mentioned, from the Parliamentarians and it is reported that some thousands of the latter have been …

On the Restoration, he succeeded in being acknowledged as Duke of Somerset, which title was forfeited by the attainder of his grandfather, in the reign of Edward VI., and died on the 24th October, 1660. His second wife was sister of the Earl of Essex. ( Supra, p. 127.) Collins. I., pt i., 188. " James Stanley, 7th Earl of Derby, was summoned to Parliament by the title of Lord Strange, 13th Februar…

Of the Marquess of Hertford it is stated that he has succeeded in getting into one of the Castles at Falmouth. I have not heard whether the petition, which the Parliament recommended to the Earl of Essex, is sent to the King. Something has been done here in Church matters. It is currently reported Queen has gone to France, and an ofldcer of the King that the hath informed me that his Majesty h…

attack being our people. Herewith, commending myself to your High attempted on Mightinesses, I pray God, High and Mighty Lords, to prosper the State and to bless your High Mightinesses' Government. Your High Mightinesses' London, the xvii. October, 1642. Most humble Servant, Received 25"^ October, 1642. ( Signed ) Alb Joachimi. : Resolution of the States General on the preceding Despatches. …

Points on which all the Chambers of the West India Company are summoned to Amsterdam for the 21 February, 1643 ; extracted so far as they relate to the affairs of New Netherland. Read 2 February, 1643. IS"" Point. It being found that New Netherland hath been hitherto of great expense and small profit to the Company, and that the plan of opening the trade to said place, produces no true effect …

In like manner, as a supply not only of all sorts of animals and cattle, but especially of salt, isnecessary for that country; and the islands of Curasao, Bonaire, Aruba particularly, furnish no other supplies, the settlement and cultivation of said islands by private individuals, under conditions to be thereunto agreed on, shall also have to be considered; permitting the trade between them, New N…

Points on which all the Chambers of the West India Company are summoned to Amsterdam for the 11 July, 1643 ; extracted so far as relates to the affairs of New Netherland. Received 19 June, 1643. g'l" Point. Proper enquiry shall, moreover, be made, and order also given as to the trade which some Chambers separately carry on to one quarter or the other, especially how, in accordance with the IS""…

read to the Assembly, complaining that he, the petitioner, hath not been able as yet to obtain from the West India Company, payment of his three years' services and other claims. After previous deliberation, it is resolved and concluded, to refer the petitioner hereby to the Courts of Justice. States General to the Assembly of the XIX. [ From the Minute In the Eoyal Archives at the Hague ; File,…

[From the Register of West India affairs, 1638-- 1651, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague.] Saturday, 7th November, 1643. Folio 106. The report being heard of Mess" van der Cappelle tho Ryssel and Hogendorp, sided'at'thl xix?" (Mr. Bickcr being absent) who by virtue of their High Mightinesses' Copimission, presided at the Assembly of the West India Company holden at Amsterdam, in September and Ee…

[ From the Register or West India affairs, 1638--1651, In the Royal Archires at the Hague. ] Tuesday, 24th November, 1643. FoiioioT. Deliberation being had, it is hereby resolved and concluded to delegate Mr. LabbertTanDinsia- ^^^^g^^ j^ the matter of Lubbertus vau Dinslaken, late fiscal of New Netherland, in the stead of Mr. Bommel, (in consequence of the latter's departure). Subject for the C…

Deputies, in virtue of their respective resolutions of the T^ and 24"" November last, and having viewed and examined the petitions and appendices heretofore presented to their High Lubbert van Dine Mightinesses by and on behalf of Lubbert van Dincklagen, late Advocate fiscal '*^^°' and Sheriff of New Netherland, instituting complaint of and against the West India Company of these parts, in order…

Lubbert van Dinef i-,g petition of Lubbert van Dinckxlaeen, further '^ ° late Fiscal and Sheriff in New lagen. Nethcrland, with the vouchers thereunto annexed, are, after previous deliberation, placed in the hands of their High Mightinesses' Deputies going to preside at the next Assembly of the XIX. of the West India Company, in order to urge and endeavor that the petitioner may be deprived of co…

fields have they cruelly murdered men and women; and with hatchets and tomahawks struck little children dead in their parents' arms or before their doors ; or carried them away into bondage ; the houses and grain-barracks are burnt with the produce; cattle, of all descriptions, are slain and destroyed, and such as remain must perish this approaching Winter for the want of fodder. Almost every plac…

140 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. from the English at the East (ere all had gone to ruin); and we wretched settlers, whilst we must abandon all our substance, are exceedingly poor. These heathens are strong in might; they have formed an alliance with seven other nations; are well provided with guns, powder and lead, which they purchased for beaver from the private traders who have had, for a lon…

And that an account of the superior convenience of sea coasts, bays, and large rivers, besides the great fertility of this place : yea, which alone could of itself provision and supply yearly 20, 25@^30 ships from Brazil or the West Indies with all necessaries. (Was underwritten :) Remaining, as we are, your High Mightinesses' faithful servants and subjects, lawfully chosen and authorized by the …

Mightiuesses iH the ,, _ i name and on behalf of the \ -it. t- \ • entire Commonalty oi New /~i ^ n t^j HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : II. 141 Netherland, containing divers complaints respecting tlie inconveniences to which they are there exposed. Whereupon, deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded, that copy of the aforesaid Remonstrance be sent to the Assembly of the XIX. of the West Ind…

We have resolved, to write to your High Mightinesses in answer to tiie one and the other, that jointly and individually, we sensibly feel in the inmost recesses of our hearts^the miserable and desolate condition of the poor people there, the rather as we find ourselves in such inability that we not only cannot supply the requisite means to bring this Colony, which is a source of so much expense fo…

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 alrea…

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…

And the aforesaid Directors also delivered, besides, to their High Mightinesses a certain letter from the Directors of the abovenamed West India Company, Chamber at Amsterdam, written there the 23^ instant, being an answer to their High Mightinesses' despatch of the S"" of the present month, Affairs of New respecting the affairs of New Netherland ; which being considered, the Provinces Neiheriand…

consequence, not provided with what those coasts required for support and trade for this State. Those from Zealand, etc HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IL 143 Mr. Spieringh to the States General. [ From the Original in the Eoyal Archives at tlie Hague: File, DuittcMand. ] High and Mighty Lords. Whereas her Royal Majesty's sliip, the Fame, coming from Nova Succia, her Royal Majesty's possession, freighted w…

Therefore I would hereby request your High Mightinesses to be pleased to give such orders and instruction to whomsoever has charge and authority over the customs and duties that they will no longer refuse to allow this her Royal Majesty's ship to be unloaded and discharged in due course of trade, but that such be done without hindrance, lest the perishable goods remain on board to their damage ; e…

Spieringh being now aware of the object of this reference, which can no otherwise be interpreted than as tending to the disrespect and disparagement of her Royal Majesty, cannot therefore accept such resolution nor send it itto her Royal Majesty (unless on refusal of any other) as it will surprise her to learn that a remonstrance from one Sovereign to another should be referred to private individu…

Which being considered, it is resolved and concluded, that the cargo of the said ship the Fame shall be regulated as regards the duties, in the same way as those of tlie PVench, English, Danish and other foreign nations that bring and discharge such or similar cargoes here ; to wit, the ordinary import duties, and in addition eight per cent, both made over among other things to the West India Comp…

The letter of Cornelis Melyn, styling himself Patroon at Staten Island, without Staten Island. (Jato or place, addressed to Mr. van Nederhorst ; also, a certain petition of the same, dated Manahattas, 6"" August last, regarding the distressed condition of affairs there, is, after previous consideration, placed in the hands of Messrs. van der Capellen, and other their High Mightinesses' Deputies to…

considered, their High Mightinesses wished the said Lords a favorable journey; recommended to them the interests of the Country in general and of the aforesaid West India Company in particular; and requested them to use all due diligence, to the end that the business mentioned in the report be accomplished, which the aforesaid, their High Mightinesses' Deputies, had made verbally on the first of t…

Peter Spiring Silvercroon, hereditary proprietor of North Holm, Councillor of Finance to her Royal Majesty of Sweden, and her Resident near your High Mightinesses, being, at his request, in conference on the 26"" October with some of your High Mightinesses' Deputies, proposed that he, the Resident, be furnished with a copy of your High Mightinesses' resolution of the IS"" October, in answer to the…

were, they should not be obligations on her Royal Majesty, or even otherwise be drawn into precedent; that, on examination of their nature and circumstances, it might be found that such French, English and Danes were mere private persons, and then, still, mere inhabitants of these countries, who, in comparison with her Royal Majesty's ship, her Royal Majesty's property, could not come into any con…

Moreover, the aforesaid proposition was altogether different in character, inasmuch as its object was to impose subsidies and contributions on her Royal Majesty and thereby tax her for the benefit of some private inhabitants of this State; inasmuch as these duties were not contributed to the State, but to private persons who were simply authorized thereunto, and who were furnished by the State wit…

Regarding the S per cent in addition to the Import duty although he, tiie Resident, did not : agree to it, he nevertheless proposed this question whether it had reference to the principal, ; the risk, the profit, the entire, or what else; also, if the valuation of the goods was to apply to the place where they were procured, here where they were bought, or there, where they would be consumed y…

according to the entry of the merchant and the place where they were loaded and purchased for if the goods were rated too high, her Royal Majesty must be obliged to take them at that appraisal, and add as much more thereto for the protection of the merchant; it will now, on the contrary, be claimed with indeed, less justice, that the West India Company is at liberty to value the goods as high as i…

wherefore nothing similar could now be levied by virtue, and in regard of said purchase: And still so much the less so, inasmuch as this, her Royal Majesty's ship had traded to, and came from, a country wliich her Royal Majesty had rightfully imrchuscd, and obtained possession of, from the right owners; where, previously, her Royal Majesty had found neither ships, commerce, nor trade, but had …

Further, he the Resident had seen by a sealed Acte of the IS"* October ( being your High Mightinesses' abovementioned resolution of the 15"") which was published by the West India Company, that the latter had, in quality of sovereign, presumed to place two of its people as keepers on board the Royal ship, and he therefore desires to know from your High Mightinesses, whether or not that was done by…

that her Royal Majesty never expected different treatment from your High Mightinesses; that the ships which had heretofore conveyed your High Mightinesses' Ambassadors to Prussia were not once inspected, nor detained, nor any people placed on board of them, although they were laden with merchandise; that even the ships, which went to fetch, or bring, the Ambassadors back, were not examined such sh…

But should your High Mightiness entertain no such regard, he, the Resident nevertheless requests, that those two persons may be again removed from the vessel, so that no further inconvenience or mischief may accrue to her Majesty's dignity from such prejudicial acts and hostilities of which, by this remonstrance, he, the Resident, will then be blameless; and as a further security that no fraud sha…

Wishing you from God Almighty a long and prosperous government. (Signed) Peter Spieringh Silvercroon, Done at the Hague on the above day A°, 1644. hereditary Proprietor of North Holm. Exhibited 29 October, 1614. Repwt of their Deputies of the States General on New Netherland. [ From the Original in the Eoyal Archires, at the Hague ; File, West IndUche Compagnie. ] Extract of the Report of Hen…

It was moreover resolved, to recall the Director in order that he defend himself, and to send back in his stead with a temporary commission, Lubbert van Dinslaken who has been formerly there as fiscal, and who is a favorite with the Indians. Minerals of copper, iron and lead have been discovered in those countries, particulars of which are given to this Director, to inform himself thereof, and to …

Mess" van der Capellen toe Ryssel and van Santen, informed the Assembly that they had repeatedly requested that the business respecting New Netherland may be dispatched, which not being done, they had spoken this morning to the Commissioners thereunto named on the 10"' December last, and were of opinion that the papers and documents having reference to New Netherland, should be placed in the ha…

the Company, with authority ; that in the meanwhile this Assembly, on its part, shall represent to the Amsterdam Chamber, what persons, in addition to the Director, ought to be recalled ; and that Lubbertus van Dincklagen, may be provisionally sent thither in the said Director's place, with such order and instruction as they shall judge to be provisionally for the best advantage of affairs there. …

Report and Advice on the Condition of New Netherland, drawn up from documents and papers placed by commission of the Assembly of the XIX., dated IS"" Dec' 164:4, in the hands of the General Board of Accounts, to examine the same, to make a digest thereof, and to advise the Assembly how the decay there can be prevented, population increased, agriculture advanced, and that country wholly improv…

Witsen, antient burgomaster of the city of Amsterdam, Jonas Witsz, Symon Morrisen, Lambert van Tweenhuyzen, Wessel Schenck and associates, all inhabitants of these parts, to trade exclusively to the newly discovered countries, situate in America, between New France and Virginia, and now called New Netherland, to resort thither exclusively for the term of three years, without any other persons bein…

For further security, Fort Good Hope was also erected in 1633, on the Fresh river. But said population did not experience any special impulse until the year when the Fur trade with the Indians, which had been previously reserved to 1639, the Company, was thrown free and open to every body; at which time not only the inhabitants there residing spread themselves far and wide, but even new Colonists…

Secondly: in consequence of the proximity to the Indians, whose lands lay un fenced, the cattle belonging to our people, straying without herdsmen, seriously damaged their corn or maize. This occasioned much complaint, and no redress following, they revenged themselves, killing both the cattle and horses. Thirdly: not only the Colonists, but also the free traders proceeding from this country, sold…

Whereupon the Director dispatched eighty soldiers thither to avenge the act, who burnt their corn and killed three or four of their people. Both sides then desisted from further proceedings. Next it happened that a Wechquaeskeck Indian' murdered, about the year 1640, an old man in his own house with an axe, for which no satisfaction having been afforded by the tribe, 12 men, chosen from the Common…

Shortly after this, seized with another panic, they fled with the Hackingsacx, fully a thousand strong, to the vicinity of the fort, and over the river of Povonia. Some of the 12 men perceiving this, the Director, on the petition of three of them, namely, Jan Janse Damen, Abraham Plangh and Maryn Adriaense who signed in the name of the entire body, authorized an attack on the abovementioned Indian…

Whatever remained of these, had to be kept in a very small enclosure, except in Rensselaers Colonic, lying on the North river, in the neighborhood of Fort Orange, which experienced no trouble and enjoyed peace, because they continued to sell fire arms and powder to the Indians even during the war against our people. The Company thus experienced the greatest destruction and damage, as well by the c…

The Commonalty, maintaining that they were some thousands strong, considered the accomplishment of such a proposal impossible; they were of opinion that it would be better to secure public tranquillity by a general peace. They have little hope of this, so long as the present rulers remain there; because the Indians are in no way to be pacified (as they themselves declare to our's) until the Direct…

Fovrihly, the settlement of the boundaries between the English and our people by the Crown of England and this State, ought to be urged in every way, in order to prevent all difficulties with that nation, inasmuch as they have begun, since the year 1633, to usurp the Fresh River, notwithstanding the Company had previously taken entire possession of it; and, on the S"" June, Anno 1633 (before any E…

Which land they have parcelled among themselves, endeavoring to prescribe unto us laws because, having built a house or two at the mouth of the river, they pretend thereby to have the key thereof. Fifthly, it would be advisable, for the benefit of that country, first of all, to facilitate emigration to New Netherland, as had been done a long time since ; or at least to credit the passengers for a …

But if private individuals are allowed to continue trading, a fixed price ought to be placed on their imported wares. The system of giving credit ought also be abolished, as the Company suffers great loss therefrom, and their servants ought to be promptly paid their board money and monthly wages. Finally, 'tis proposed that the Council consist of four or five persons for the maintenance of justice…

But inasmuch as the Company has, by its conceded Freedoms, promised to take all Colonists, as well freemen as servants, under its protection, and to aid in defending them against all foreign and domestic wars; and as the improvement of affairs by good orders from here, and better government there, is not altogether hopeless ; so that this place may be preserved, in the first instance, with small p…

And, therefore, they should not deem it impolitic to adopt the advice of the Commonalty, and to endeavor, by all possible means, to conciliate and to satisfy the Indians by recalling tlie Director and Council, who are responsible for that bloody proceeding of the 2S"' February, 1643, that they may justify and vindicate their government before the Hon*"'* Assembly of the XIX., in whose stead a pers…

And we are of opinion that this will be effected in a proper and in the cheapest manner, with good clay and firm sods. The soldiers, by some presents, could be encouraged thereunto and obliged to keep it, for the future, in good repair. The Director ought to be particularly commanded to pay strict attention thereto. Esiabiuhment. Fifthly: we are of opinion, under correction, that for the security …

With this understanding, however, that in criminal cases the Commander shall take the place of the Fiscal, with the addition, also, of two capable members of the Commonalty. Further, as the respective Colonies are allowed by the 28"" article of the Freedoms to delegate one or two persons to report their state and condition to the Director and Council, at least once a year, so are we of opinion tha…

them as much land as they will be able to cultivate, whether in raising tobacco, whereunto that Island, on account of its great fertility, is considered well adapted ; or grain and other crops from which they will expect to derive the greatest profit. And for the advancement of the cultivation of the land there, it would not be unwise to allow, at the request of the Patroons, Colonists and other f…

But it should be absolutely forbidden that either freemen should sell to the Indians, or commission merchants to freemen, any arms or munitions of war, on a certain heavy penalty to be thereunto enacted, lest the Indians, deriving strength from such a trade, may, in course of time, be encouraged to do us more harm than they can now, in their impotency, inflict. But it will suffice that each of th…

And on arriving in Brazil, they shall be bound to deliver every thing into the Company's store, and on payment of the proper duty and toll, whether in money or kind, to dispose of the same; without exporting any money thence, but taking, as a return cargo, staves, sugar, confectionary, ginger, tobacco, cotton and other produce of the country, with proper entries thereof, both as to quality and qua…

But in order to meet the expenses which the Company has to incur, for the support of the garrison and the other servants, it will be necessary to keep a sharp eye on the receipt of the duties, tolls and other dues, already imposed and yet to be imposed on the exported and imported goods. From which, we are of opinion, that the expenses to be incurred by the Company can be fully defrayed, with the …

1 Director, whose monthly salary should be fl. 250, to board himself, is yearly fl. 3,000 1 Second, and factor and receiver, at fl. 120 per month, as above, 1,440 1 Fiscal, (IL fl. 60 per month, as above 720 1 Secretary, who is also to keep the book of monthly wages, per month fl.60, 720 1 Commissary of the merchandise and store goods @. fl. 60 per month, 720 1 Assistant of the merchandise an…

ISO 1 Commander, (a. fl. 60 per month, 720 1 Ensign, (a. fl. 4-5 -540 2 Serjeants, (3. fl. 2-5 each, 600 2 Corporals, (a. fl. IS each 432 1 Drummer, (S. fl. 13, 156 4 Cadets, (a. fl- 15 each, 720 40 Soldiers, (a^ fl. 13 each, 6,240 1 Surgeon for the soldiers, (a, fl. 25 300 1 .Skipper on tlie sloop, (1. fl. 25, 300 4 Matrosses, (a. fl. 13 per month each, 624 1 Boy, d- fl. 9 per month, lO…

Spieringh's memorial and of the pieces thereunto appended, this day presented to us, which we have hereby resolved to send to you, desiring and requesting that the said laden goods and merchandise of the aforesaid two ships, may be discharged without making any further difficulty therein; our previously repeated resolution and order remaining in force and effect, respecting the eight per cent in q…

Every thing is, by God's blessing, in a good condition; and in consequence of the employment of the negroes, which were from time to time introduced from Angola into Brazil, in planting grain, flour is produced in such quantity that what used to always cost S to 10 guilders, still contintes to be sold at the low rate of six stivers, wherefore the Supreme Council now have written to send from here …

The receipts herefrom still keep the Company alive, and furnish means for the equipments and cargoes for these and other coasts. 4. At the request of your High Mightinesses' delegates, something has been proposed by the General Board of Accounts for the support of the Company; namely, 10'= 63 M. guilders yearly ; out of which, they say, the six per cent per annum can be paid. The Chambers have ta…

Four Councillors have been nominated to the supreme government of Brazil; but they have given in some considerations whereon they demand explanation. The nomination and proposing of the President also remain unsettled; all these, as well as the establishment of the Board of accounts in Brazil, and the departure of the delegates to the supreme government, will be arranged at the first meeting of th…

High Mightinesses favor, by reporting at Amsterdam that your High Mightinesses will not contribute any more to the support of the West India Company that such was evident from ; the fact that your High Mightinesses had extended both Charters, notwithstanding the Directors of the West India Company had been so long at the Hague, soliciting the means of subsistence from your High Mightinesses. 8.…

Netherland ; and the Chambers have promised to complete the appointed rotations [tourbeurten), to the respective possessions, when your High Mightinesses assist them with a liberal portion of the promised subsidies. Vessels are expected from Brazil and the other coasts; namely, seven from Brazil, one from Guinea. The Hague, the Y July, 1G45. Extract of Appendix. Exhibited 12''' of July, 1645. Con…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : IIL 159 each of which, as above mentioned, will cost the Company 1200 guilders per month less than those they now fit out, and thus it will derive a profit, in the year, of fl. 432,000. With which, in our opinion, the six per cent might be yearly divided, or employed in the purchase of shares, in order to reduce the immense capital or to pay off some of the Company's liabilitie…

On the 27"" instant I represented to your High Mightinesses that my factor at Harlingea was called on by the Board of Admiralty at that place to pay the import duties (convoij) on the freights of the royal ships the Cahncrslcutcl and Fama, which I have already once paid to the West India Company at Amsterdam, as appears by the annexed authenticated copy, the original whereof remains with me; and a…

Sieur Lucas Arentsz, Agent of Resident Spierinck, received here the following parcels of Tobacco and Beavers which were brought in the subjoined two Swedish ships from the limits of the Incorporated West India Company in those countries, to wit: In the Ship the Fame. 10 cases containing 2137 piecesof Beavers, which valued at 7 guilders, amount to, fl. 14,959 Whereof the import duty is 2 stivers …

The four thousand six hundred and fifty guilders twelve stivers, contained in the present account, are received by us undersigned in our aforementioned quality for the said West India Company from the hands of Sieur Lucas Arentsz, aforesaid, in the name as above; promising to guarantee and release him herein from all demands under bond of the property and effects of the aforesaid Company. In witn…

matters appertaining to the police, justice, militia, dignity and rights of the Company, shall be treated and decided, each, nevertheless, being bound to vindicate his own commission. With this understanding, however, that in all cases wherein the Advocate fiscal shall be bound to prosecute, whether civilly or criminally, for the preservation of the right of the supreme government or the Company, …

Meanwhile, they are to try if the settlement of the limits cannot be arranged yonder with the aforesaid English, and if these are found so inclined, advice thereof shall be sent here by the first opportunity, together with pertinent information what extent of the Company's lands the English possess, in order to be instructed thereupon, when seen; all, with this understanding however, that the afor…

They shall endeavor as much as possible, that the colonists settle themselves with a certain number of families on some of the most suitable places, in the manner of villages, towns and hamlets, as the English are in the habit of doing, who thereby live more securely; this was also the Company's intention when it granted the heretofore printed Freedoms, and the amplification thereof. The aforesaid…

allowance as shall be most advantageous to the Company, and for greater security, the Colonists and their servants shall be bound under certain penalty, to provide themselves with good guns and other arms for their defence, in order to be, with the garrison in time of need, a watch against any general attack, without the Director, colonists or any other person whatsoever, having the power of enlis…

And for the promotion of agriculture there, it is deemed proper to permit, at the request of the Patroons, colonists and other farmers, the conveyance thither of as many Negroes as they are willing to purchase at a fair price ; and the Director and Council shall notify the Assembly hereof every year, when further order shall be taken regarding the transport of Negroes thither. And although it is p…

Chambers of the Company to give permission to all private inhabitants of these countries to sail with their own ships to New Netherland, the Virginias, the Swedish, English and French colonies, the Bermudas or any other places situate thereabouts, according to the drafted regulation, they shall, therefore, strictly observe and cause to be obsered, that the contents thereof shall be attended to, as…

All which Points and Articles the Director and Council shall be bound to observe and to follow, as closely as possible, regulating themselves further according to the Instructions heretofore given for the government of those countries, so far as they are not by these presents altered, or may not be hereafter changed, which power this Assembly reserves unto itself. Thus done and resolved in the Ass…

The Chambers will be pleased to instruct their deputies regarding the affairs of New Netherland, in order to resume the business of the 6"" and 7"" of July, and to resolve afterwards as shall be most serviceable and most advantageous for the Company. 14'\ What shall be done respecting the island of Cura9ao ; for it is certainly to be presumed that to maintain it as has been previously done,the C…

The opinion of the before mentioned deputies being heard, it is, after divers discourses between the members from Amsterdam and other Chambers, concluded and resolved, inasmuch as some Clergymen are about to return home from Brazil, that they be permitted to return, and that the number of those who shall remain there be limited to nine persons, to wit: one for each ninth part, to be distributed by…

But inasmuch as the Amsterdam Ciiamber maintains, at its charge, seven of the aforesaid clergymen, besides one in Curagao, one in New Netherland and one in Loando, making 10 in all; on the other hand, Zealand and the Maese have only one; Zealand and North Holland is to send one, and Stadt en Landen^ hath sent one by the last ship; it is resolved that the ' In 1594, Prince Maurice reduced the city…

Read a remonstrance from Director Petrus Stuyvesandt, containing divers considerations relative to the island of Curacao and New Netherland ; also, read the 13"" and 14"' points of reference, both regarding the aforesaid countries; question having been put, it is resolved to refer the received remonstrance to the Commissioners who shall examine it, and advise the Assembly on the points of referenc…

The Commissioners being again assembled on the 13"" and 14"" points of reference, pursuant to the resolution of the 11"" instant, report, that before they can determine to express their opinion, the Chambers ought categorically to declare whether they will obey and execute the resolutions adopted on the 5"" and 7"" of July last respecting New Netherland; whereupon, question being put, the deputies…

interference with New Netherland, and leave the management, on such plan as they may : HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IIL 165 determine to enact, to those who shall carry out the resolutions, without meddling with that country again in case the condition of affairs there may hereafter improve. The deputies from Zealand, being requested, have undertaken to communicate further with their principals hereupon,…

It being stated that one Laurents Cornelisen, being banished from New Netherland, requests permission to be at liberty to go thither whenever the new Director proceeds there, and to pursue in peace, without being troubled by justice, some other business than that which he followed when he was banished ; on hearing further explanation of the circumstances of the case, it is resolved to leave the co…

The aforesaid place might be henceforth garrisoned with 116 men, whose pay for a year would amount to 1 Commandant with a lieutenant, per month, fl- 60 1 Ensign, 36 1 Comforter of the sick, 30 1 Superintendent of the store with an auditor, 22 1 Clerk, 14 2 Serjeants at fl. 18, 36 1 Smith and 1 corporal of the armory, 20 2 Mason and carpenter @. fl. 22, 44 1 Barber (surgeon), 24 1 Barber'…

A first class ship and flyboat will have to be sent from Fatherland with 70 soldiers and 20 seamen, for the purpose of conveying the people, provisions, etc., to Curagao, and relieving the old garrison, on the calculation that 26 men can be selected from the old hands, which would then make up the 116 persons, as hereinbefore stated. Which aforesaid ship and flyboat will have to carry out from Fat…

In the aforesaid first class ship and two yachts, ought to be laden the 2700 first quality hides, lying there; and thus return home after cruising together through the West Indies, as long as their provisions permit. The flyboat and the ship Swol, ought to take on board all the old iron, unnecessary ordinance and other useless stores, along with as many horses, and as much salt and dried codfish, …

Were Cura9ao also placed under the government of New Netherland, the garrison could be maintained at little expense, and the poor people preserved from the dreadful famine to which they have sometimes been subject. It had been much more advantageous for the Company to abandon the island of Curasao; but this cannot be effected without the coi'iperation of their High Mightinesses and his Highness; a…

List of the provisions, stores and merchandise required for the Island Cura9ao, including the bark Paroquit, the sloop and large boat, in all 116 persons, as well marines as train bands, for one year. 25 barrels of beef @, fl. 90 the bbl., fl. 2,250 19 barrels of pork @, fl. 62^ the bbl., 1,187 10 10 cans of oil (a, fl. 80, 800 12 hogsheads of vinegar @^ fl. 20, 240 3G barrels of groats, , …

2 bales of canvas (a fl. 150 ea., fl. 300 100 lbs. of best bolt rope come to 16 30 lbs. of sail yarn @^ 9 stiv. per lb., 12 12 bundles of assorted thread, 13 12 45 bundles of marline @^ 4 stiv. ea., 9 40 bundles of huisingh (ax 6 stiv., 12 43 bundles of twine @^ 5 stiv., 5 15 600 lbs. light running line, 96 8 tons of tar (a. fl. 12 the ton, 96 2 barrels of pitch @, fl. 12, 24 3 barrels o…

1200 lbs. new powder, fl. 405 50 fivelb.balls, ..' 15 600 lbs. of musket balls, 90 600 lbs. pig lead, 60 4 reams cartridge paper, 60 HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : III. 169 20 lbs. cartridge thread, 20 10 kegs of black, 1 keg of red, 1 keg of white, \ paint, 80 1 keg of red, 1 ditto of yellow,; 1 small barrel of linseed oil, 36 Materials for the use of the Salt manufacture and agriculture. 30 b…

For the office. 5 reams of paper, fl. 25 6 blank books, 42 6 penknives, 3 20 bundles of quilis; 9 Ink powder, 4 One medicine chest, well supplied with good and fresh medicines. Invoice of merchandise necessary to be distributed to the garrisons in part payment of their monthly wages. 3 ps. of colored everlasting, fl- 96 3 ps. of muslin, 60 3 ps. of colored coarse camlet, 102 3 ps. of c…

16 barrels of Beef@,fl. 90 the bbl., fl. 1,440 15 ditto of Pork @, fl. 62J " " 937 10 5J awms of Oil @. fl.80 " awm, 440 5 hogsheads Vinegar @^ fl. 25 ea., 125 18 barrels white peas (S, fl. 19 the bbl., 342 10 barrels grey peas " " 190 6 ditto beans @, fl. 13 14 stiv., " 79 4 18 ditto groats @, fl. 24, " " 432 5000 lbs, dried codfish @, fl. 9 per 100, 450 15000 " bread @, fl. 9 " 100, 1,35…

6 bbls. grey peas @, fl. 19 4 st. per bbl., 96 4 ditto beans (a, fl. 12 14 St., •' 54 16 8 ditto groats @, fl. 24 " " 192 2,000 lbs. dried codfisii @, fl. 9 per 100, 180 6,000 lbs. biscuit @,fl. 9 per 100 540 130 Cheeses, being 1,300 lbs., @, fl. 17 per 100, 221 3 casks Spanish wine, 270 1 ditto Brandy, 100 i awm Train oil, 27 1 cask i wax i tallow candles, 50 Total of the provisions, fl. …

1 bale of canvas, 170 100 lbs. of bolt rope, 16 20 lbs. sail yarn @. 10 stiv. per lb, 10 li ton of Tar @, fl. 12 the ton, 18 1 ton of pitch, 12 1 bbl. of rosin 30 40 clew lines @. 6 stiv., 12 400 lbs. running line, fl. 16 the 100, 64 10 ps. linen @. fl. 1 J the pc, 15 20 bundles marline @^ 4 stiv. the bundle, 4 20 bundles huysingh @^ 6 stiv. the bundle, 6 20 bundles hording (S. 5 stiv. …

The provisions, 3,150 8 Total of the required necessaries, 3,909 4 And as much for the Yacht the Cat, manned with 60 hands. The Ship the Swol requires one month's provisions in order, with 60 hands, to convey some horses, salt and other effects from Cura9ao to New Netherland : 1 barrel of beef, fl. 90 1 ditto pork, 02 10 3 ditto vegetables, 60 300 lbs. dried codfish, 27 900 lbs. bread, 82 6…

The Commissioners appointed on 21" of September on the 13"" point of reference, relating to the resolution of the XIX., adopted the G"" and 7"" of July last, have, after consultation, and after having deliberated on the aforesaid resolution, resolved to submit to the Assembly their considerations on said resolutions, and first, on that of the G"" of July, contained in 5 distinct articles. On the …

To consider only whether the Assembly should not resolve that one or two cargoes be sent alternately by the respective Chambers, in the manner as used heretofore to be done. Leaving the third point untouched, as it stands, we should only enlarge it with this addition: That all the goods sent to iVew Netheriand, or parts thereabout, must first and foremost come to Fort New Amsterdam, before being e…

liberty to touch at any trading places, on pain of forfeiture of ship and goods, should they act otherwise. Finally, leaving the remaining points as they are, also the instruction to be amplified by new additions of what this Assembly may determine further to resolve on the suggestion of Director Stuyvesant. Monday, IG"" of October, 1645. The presiding Chamber of Zealand, with General Board of Ac…

Peter, from this city, Amsterdam, to New Netherland, situate within the limits of our Charter; on condition that he, before loading his goods, should be bound to bring the same into the Company's warehouses, in order to be conveyed on board, when inspected and stamped with the Company's mark; and to cause to be paid thereon the duty of sixteen per cent, in addition to the permits and convoys; also…

India hides, and a good many pieces of eight. Thirdly: on arriving afterwards in New Netherland, it was discovered that he had brought with him divers contraband and prohibited goods; though it was impossible to make so thorough an examination, because the said Simon Janssen had sailed from the Texel without taking with him any invoice from the Company. All which, coming to the knowledge of Cornel…

High and Mighty, to be pleased to dismiss the request contained in the petition of the aforesaid Simon Janssen, and to order him not to trouble us any more touching the matter aforesaid. Wherewith ending We shall pray God for the continued success of your High Mightinesses' prosperous government and remain High and Mighty Lords, Your High Mightinesses' humble servants. The Directors of the West…

Read in the Assembly a certain memorial presented to their High Mightinesses in the name and on behalf of the Directors of the Incorporated West India Company of this country, requesting that their High Mightinesses would he pleased to cause to be dispatched BtuyvesanL » commission for Petrus Stuyvesant, Director of New Netherland, according to New Netherland. ^j^g formula exhibited and submitted …

Stuyvesant, for New Netherland, according to tlie annexed draft, whereunto, pursuant to your High Mightinesses' then order, Secretary Mus liath looked up the commissions issued iieretofore by your High Mightinesses. Therefore the above named Directors supplicate your High Mightinesses with all due reverence, to be pleased to cause to be issued the commission aforesaid, inasmuch as two ships lie in…

May it please your Honor to know, in regard to the application of the Directors of the West India Company for a commission for the Director of New Netherland, the retro acta have been lying, for the last 10 or 12 days, in the office of Your High Mightinesses' Secretary, pursuant to your High Mightinesses' order. We pray your High Mightinesses to cause the patent to be dispatched, inasmuch as 2 shi…

Director going to ^ certain memorial, presented to their High a Mightinesses o by j and on behalf of , .^. ^ t /-, n New Netheriaud. the West India Company for a patent of Commission for the Director going to New Netherland, being read to the Assembly ; it is, after previous deliberation, resolved and concluded, before proceeding thereupon, that the above named West India Company shall exhibi…

Petrus Stuivesant appeared before the Assembly as Director of New Netherland Stuivesant. and Directorof Cura9ao, and some other islands mentioned in his commission, and New Netherland. took, according to a Certain formulary, the proper oath, and amongst other things, swore specially that he would conform to his Instruction given him by the Assembly of the West India Company, which Instruction is…

have deemed it advisable for the advancement of the aifairs of the General Incorporated West India Company not only to maintaia the trade and population on the Coast of New Netherland and the places situate thereabout; also, the Islands Curasao, Buenaire, Aruba and their dependencies, which have hitherto been encouraged thither from this country, but also to make new treaties and alliances with fo…

necessary to appoint a person Director; We, therefore, confiding in the probity and experience of Petrus Stuyvesant, formerly entrusted with Our affairs in, and the government of, the aforesaid Island of Curasao and the places thereon depending, We, being well pleased with his services there, have commissioned and appointed, and by these presents do commission and appoint the said Petrus Stuyvesan…

July, 1646. ; HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IH. 179 Resolution of the States General. [ From the EegiBt«r of West India affairs, 1638 -- 16B1, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague. ] Saturday, 28"' July, 1646. Folio soa £)r Lubbertus van Dinclaeen u appeared i i in the Assembly j as Second, and first Dr. Lobbertus van Dinciagen. Councillor of the Director of New Netherland, and hath sworn that he will …

New Netherland, so called because it was first frequented and peopled by the free Netherlanders, is a province in the most northerly part of America, situate between N. England (which bounds it on the N. E. side) and Virginia, lying to the S. W. Its entire length is washed by the ocean and has a clean sandy beach resembling very much that of Flanders or Holland, having, except the rivers, few bays…

The aspect of the country is very like that of France; the land is reasonably high and level, to wit, along the coast, broken by small hills which are rocky and unfit for cultivation ; further in the interior are pretty high mountains, exhibiting generally strong indications of minerals ; between those mountains flow a great number of small streams; there are even in places, some, but not many, lo…

The animals also are of the same species as ours, except lions and some other strange beasts many bears, abundance of wolves, which harm ; nothing but small cattle. Elks and deer in vast numbers, foxes, beavers, otters, minx, and such like. The fowls which are natural to the country, are turkeys, like ours, swans, geese of three sorts, ducks, teals, cranes, herons, bitterns; two sorts of partrid…

They seem to despise all the torments that can be inflicted on them, and do not utter a single moan, they go almost naked, except a flap which hangs before their nakedness, and on their shoulders a deer skin, or a mantle, a fathom square, of woven turkey feathers, or of peltries sewed together ; they make use now generally of blue or red (duflfels), in consequence of the frequent visits of the Chr…

and but little distinction, unless in their dances and other ceremonies. They have hardly any knowledge of God; no Divine Worship, no law, no justice; the strongest does what he pleases, and the young men are masters. Their weapons are the bow and arrow, in the use of which they are wonderful adepts. Hunting and fishing, in addition to the maize which the women plant, furnish them food. HOLLAND D…

But as soon as the trade was opened, many servants who had prospered under the Company applied for their discharge, built houses and formed plantations, spread themselves far and wide, each seeking the best land, and to be nearest to the Indians, in order thus to trade with them advantageously ; others bought sloops with which to sell goods at the north and at the south, and as the Directors gave …

Amsterdam around the fort, one hundred families, so that there was appearance of producing supplies in a year for fourteen thousand souls, without straightening the country, and had there not been a want of laborers or farm servants, twice as much could be raised, considering that fifty lasts of rye and fifty lasts of peas were still remaining around the fort, after a large quantity had been burnt…

fellow, as if deeming him suspected and the enemy of his desire, sought communication with the Indians from whom it appeared his profit was to be derived, all contrary to their High Mightinesses' motto.' That created first, a division of power of dangerous consequence; then produced altogether too much familiarity with the Indians, which in a short time brought forth contempt, usually the Father o…

This Liberty caused still greater mischief: for the inhabitants of Renselaerswyck, who were as many traders as persons, perceiving that the Mohawks were craving for guns, which some of them had already received from the English, paying for each as many as Twenty Beavers and for a pound of powder as many as Ten to Twelve guilders, came down in greater numbers than usual where guns were plenty, purc…

On this account the Indians endeavored no less to procure Guns, and through the familiarity which existed between them and our people, began to solicit the latter for Guns and powder, but as such was forbidden on pain of Death, and could not remain secret in consequence of the general conversation, they could not be obtained. This, added to the previous contempt, greatly augmented the hatred which…

This outrage obliged the Director to demand satisfaction from the Sachem who refused That he it, saying. * Note A. was sorry twenty Christians had not been murdered * and that this Indian had 2i'Aug!"/6«.'°"°'^' only avenged the death of his Uncle who had been slain over one and twenty years previously by the Dutch. Whereupon, the Commonalty were called together by the Director to consider this …

The journey, however, was not without effect, for the Indians, who remarked by the trail made by our people in marching, that they had narrowly escaped discovery, sued for peace, which was granted them on condition that they should either deliver up the murderer or inflict justice themselves. This they promised, but did not keep their word. Some weeks after this, Miantenimo, principal Sachem of Sl…

Those of Hackingsack, otherwise called Achter Col, had, with their as neighbors, killed an Englishman, a servant of one David Pietersz., and a few days after shot dead, in an equally treacherous manner, a Dutchman who sat roofing a house in the Colonic [Note E. of Myndert Meyndertz,|| having settled there agaiiist the advice of the Director and the "^^^^ "f ^^'^ I'ldiaus, and had caused, by the…

Meanwhile God wreaked vengeance on those of Witquescheck without our knowledge through the Mahicanders dwelling below Fort Orange, who slew seventeen of them and made prisoners of many women and children ; the remainder fled through a deep snow to the houses of the Christians on and around the Island Manhatens. They were most humanely received, being half dead of cold and hunger, and supported for…

Next morning, before the return of the troops, a man and woman were shot at Pavonia, who had come either through curiosity to look at, or to plunder the dead; the soldiers rescued a young child, which the woman had in her arms. Thei/peuiiOT' and The Christians residing on Long Island also requested by petitiont to be Febr Jrry"2f, lewf** allowcd to attack and slay the Indians thereabout, which was…

This induced one of the proprietors of the burnt houses to upbraid, therewith, one Maryn Adriaenzen, who, at his own request, had led the freemen in the attack on the Indians, and who, being reinforced by an English troop, had afterwards undertaken two bootless expeditions in the open field. Imagining that the Director had accused him, being one of the signers of the petition, he determined to rev…

Marine's man and another entered the fort, each carrying a loaded gun and pistol -- the first fired at the Director, who having had notice, withdrew to his house, the bullets passed into the walls along side the door behind him ; the sentinel firing immediately at the fellow who had discharged his gun, brought him down. Shortly afterwards, some of the Commonalty collected before the Director, rio…

The Indians kept still after this peace, associating daily with our people; yea, even the greatest chiefs came to visit the Director. Meanwhile Pacham, a crafty man, ran through all the villages urging the Indians to a general massacre. Thereupon it happened that certain Indians called Wappingers, dwelling sixteeM leagues up the river, with whom we never had the least trouble, seized a boat coming…

Two ships of war and a privateer, were here at the time, and saved considerable cattle and grain. Probably it was not possible to prevent the destruction of four bouweries on Pavonia, which were burnt; not by open violence, but by stealthily creeping through the bush with fire in hand, and in this way igniting the roofs, which are all either of reed or straw ; one covered with plank, was preserved…

Netherland should be mortgaged to the English as security for the payment thereof, (one of Dated gih" Mkrch, the uiost iofl ucutial amoug the Eight men had, by letter, <^ enforced by precedents, ^^^' previously endeavored to persuade the Director to this course; as they had In thir'^R^so^ve of Tcsolved to do a few days before ||) that the provisions destined for Curiigao :643. ^^P"^""""^' sho…

empty and abandoned by the Indians; they got 5 or 6 hundred skepels of corn and burnt the remainder without accomplishing anything else. Mayane, a Sachem, residing eight miles N. E. of us, between Greenwich (that lies within our jurisdiction) and Stamford, which is English, a fierce Indian who, alone, dared to attack with bow and arrows, three Christians armed with guns, one of whom he shot dead ;…

Retreat was made to the yachts in order to depart as secretly as possible; passing through Stantford some Englishmen were encountered who offered to lead ours to the place where some Indians were ; thereupon four scouts were sent in divers directions to make a discovery, who, on returning, reported that the Indians had some notice of our people from the salute the Englishmen fired, but without any…

Meanwhile, we were advised that Pennewitz, one of the oldest and most experienced Indians in the country, and who, in the first conspiracy, had given the most dangerous counsel, to wit: that they should wait and not attack the Dutch until all suspicion had been lulled, and then divide themselves equally through the houses of the Christians and slaughter all of them in one night; was secretly wagin…

Our forces being returned from this expedition, Captain van der Hil was dispatched to Stantfort to get some information there of the Indians. He reported that the guide who had formerly served us and had gone astray in the night, was now in great danger of his life from the Indians, of whom there were about five hundred together, and offered to lead us there to prove that the former mischance was …

In the evening, about eight o'clock, they came within a league of the Indians, and inasmuch as they should have arrived too early and had to cross two Rivers, one of two hundred feet wide and three deep, and that the men could not afterwards rest in consequence of the cold, it was determined to remain there until about ten o'clock.Orders having been given as to the mode to be observed in attacking…

Tiie General seeing that nothing else was to be done, resolved, with Serjeant Major Van der Hil, to set fire to the huts; whereupon the Indians tried every way to escape, not succeeding in which they returned back to the flames, preferring to perish by fire than to die by our hands. What was most wonderful is, that among this vast collection of Men, Women and Children, not one was heard to cry or …

On the next day, the party set out much refreshed in good order, so as to arrive at Stantfort in the evening. They marched with great courage over that wearisome mountain, God affording extraordinary strength to the wounded some of whom were badly hurt ; and came in the afternoon to Stantfort after a march of two days and one night, with little rest. The English received our people in a very frien…

Which being considered, it is resolved and concluded hereby to request the Mess" van der Capellen tho Ryssel and the other their High Mightinesses' Deputies in the matter of the reform of the direction and management of the affairs relating to the West India Company, with what appertains to, and depends on, them, to inspect and examine the same and report thereupon. Resolution of the States Gener…

PAPERS RELATING TO THE CONDITION OF NEW NETHERLAND, And, the -proceedings against Cornelius MJyn and his adherents; marked from letter A. to letter R., 1643--1647. [ From .the anlhenticatcd Copy in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague ; Loketkas of the States General ; Division Wea IndUche Compagnie, No. 25. ] Excise Law of 1644. A. Whereas, the General war which we have been forced to wage against …

We have, therefore, enacted and ordained, and do hereby enact and ordain, that there shall be paid on each half barrel of beer tapt by the tavern keepers, two guilders, one-half payable by the brewer and one half by the tapster ; the burgher who does not retail it, to pay half as much ; on each quart of Spanish wine and brandy, four stivers; French wine, two stivers, to be paid by the tapsters. On…

From each merchantable beaver purchased within our limits and brought here to the fort, which shall be immediately marked, and those that will fifteen stivers, the small in proportion, be found unmarked, shall be forthwith confiscated; and all who have beavers in their possession, are hereby notified to come to the Receiver of the Company's customs, thereunto appointed, and to have them marked, …

Honorable Gentlemen Rightly hath one of the ancients said, that there is no misery on earth however great that does not manifest itself in time of war.We, poor inhabitants of New Netherland, now complain that having enjoyed for a long time an indifferent peace with the heathen, Almighty God finally, through his righteous judgment, hath in this current year kindled around us the fire of an Indian …

These are threatened by the Indians every night with fire, and by day with the slaughter of both people and cattle. Achter Col where the Honb'' Mr. Van der Horst founded a Colonic, is altogether ruined, so that we have no other place of shelter remaining for ourselves, our wives and children, than around and adjoining Fort Amsterdam at the Manahactas. The enemy experiences no resistance, through w…

Your Honors can easily conceive how wretchedly it fares with us, distressed people, and the whole country, for the growth and prosperity thereof consists chiefly in men, cattle and houses, in which we, jointly and severally, have exhausted all the means we have been able to realize. The population is composed mainly of women and children; the freemen (exclusive of the English) are about 200 strong…

It is likewise to be apprehended that this will be but the beginning of our troubles, for, as these Indians with their weapons kill our people, one after another [it is to be feared] that they will next with guns destroy us, our wives and children, while the men are ruined, the grain and other produce burnt, very little saved, not even a plough can be put in the ground this fall, so that not 100 s…

We speak not now of other necessaries, such as clothing, shirts, shoes and stockings, In fine, it is like to happen, that it will be with us, according to the words of the Prophet, Whoso draweth the sword, shall perish of hunger and cold. We turn, then, to your Honors; we humbly pray and beseech you to be pleased to help us with the first opportunity to assist us with such aid as your Honors in t…

We, the undersigned, having appeared at the Fort at the request of the Hon'''' Director and Council, to express our opinions on their proposition, they have required us to elect five or six persons from among ourselves to weigh maturely the articles laid before us ; wherefore have we considered it wise on so doing to leave to the Director and Council the execution thereof; namely, the selection o…

This is the mark ^^ of Isack de Forest, Albert Jansen, Peter Colet, This is the mark T of Tevnis Cray, This is the mark O" --r f,of Jacob Stoffelsen, CoRNELis Willemsen, Pieter Linde, This is the mark (S« of Claes Carstersen, John Pathaway, Ritchert Gebbers, This is the mark ^ of Piccis, This is the mark ^ of Abraham Jacobsen, Jacob Couwenhoven, Reiner Jansen, Jan Verbrugh, This is the …

The whole of the freemen respectfully represent, that though heretofore much innocent blood was spilled by the Savages without having had any reason or cause therefor, yet your Honors made peace on condition that the chiefs should deliver the murderer into our hands, (either dead or alive,) wherein they have failed, up to the present time; the reputation which our nation hath in other countries, h…

Whereas the good inhabitants here are obliged to reside on their properties up to the present time in great alarm, and cultivate with caution the soil through dread of the Indians who now and again have in a cowardly manner murdered some of our nation (without having any reason therefor), and we cannot obtain any satisfaction for the blood by peaceable means; therefore arms must be had recourse to…

Before me Cornelis van Tienhoven, Secretary of New Netherland, appeared Jan Evertsen Bout, aged about forty years, who at the request of Cornelis Leendertsen, deposes, testifies and declares, as he doth hereby testify and declare in the place, and with the promise, of a solemn oath if necessary and so required; that it is true, that on Wednesday, being the first day, he, the deponent, heard the Di…

Before me Cornelis Van Tienhoven, Secretary of New Netherland, appeared Jacob Stoffelsen, aged about 42 years, who at the request of Cornelis Leendersen, deposes and declares as he hereby doth, that it is true that he, the deponent, coming in the forenoon of the day after the attack on the Indians, in company with Gerrit Dircksen and Cornelis Arensen, across the bastion of the fort, this deponent …

Before me Cornelia van Tienhoven, Secretary of New Netherland, appeared Cornells Arissen, aged about 36 years, who, at the request of Cornells Leendersen, deposes, testifies and declares, in the place, and with the promise of solemn oath, if necessary, that it is true that he accompanied Jacob Stoffelsen and Gerrit Dyrcksen into the fort on the day after the attack on the Indians, and there heard …

occurred ?" The Director answered " It was petitioned for in the name of the Commonalty, : by three persons, (without naming any one) being three of the Twelve elected men." To which this deponent replied --"Your Honor had forbidden them to meet on pain of corporal punishment; how came it, then?" The Director rejoined -- "It is probably so." Which the deponent declares to be true. Done, the 28"…

Interrogalo7'ies to be proposed to Fiscal Heindrick van Dijck. Article 1. IM. Is he not well aware that the late Director General Kieft, did, on the night between the 24"" and 25"" February, in the year 1643, send a party of Soldiers over to Pavonia by the bouwery of Jan Evertzoon, and behind Curler's plantation on the Island of Manhatans and cause them to kill a party of Indians, with women and…

Is it not also true, that all those Indians had fled to the above described place some days before, through dread of the Maicanders ; in the hope of being protected by our people from their enemies? 5. Did not we, the Dutch, in this country, live in peace with these Indians before and until this cruel deed had been wrought on them over at Pavonia and on the Island Manhatans? Interrogatories to …

Kieft on the night of the 24th February, 1643, cause a party of Indians, our friends, to be massacred with women and children in their sleep, over at Pavonia and behind Corker's plantation ? 5. Did Mr. Kieft previously propose this expedition to the Council, and was it approved by witness, as fiscal at that time, and by the other members of the Council ? 6. Is it not true that the Indians were…

Did he vote for, and approve of, the maize tax in the year 1639 ? 2. Was it ever before proposed in their Council, and now when Mr. Kieft had imposed contributions on those natives, did he (La M.) not say in the presence of several persons : --that by those proceedings, a Bridge had been built, over which War would soon stalk through the country ? 3. Does he know from what cause originated th…

Also, that the peculiarity of places should be considered ; whether we could extricate our people who had settled at a far distance ; also, the question of force and munitions of war ; whether we could indeed defend ourselves and continue the war ? Is it true that Director Kieft made answer to this in his room, in the presence of Jan Claesen Daem, Abraham Planck, and Maryn Adriaensen, who had alr…

Did we not, up to this time, before this deed was committed, live in peace with all those Americans, the Haccinsack murderer excepted ? 13. Is it not true, that all those Indians had Had to the two places abovementioned, through fear of the Mahicanders, in the hope of being protected by our people from their enemies? Interrogatories to be proposed to Secretary Cornells van Tienhoven. Article 1…

Kieft entrusted to him ? 7. In what terms did he endeavor to persuade the Indians to consent to the contribution? In what year was he, deponent, sent by Mr. Kieft to the Raritanus ; and did he not go there with a party of armed soldiers and sailors under the command of Heindrich, captain of the Neptunus? 9. What order did the Director give him, the Secretary, particularly in this case; and ho…

Was not that difficulty sometime after entirely settled with the Raritans; so that they have remained quiet, on their side, to the present time ? 14. In what year did he, the Secretary, make the peace with the Wicquaesgeckers, at the house of the late Jonas Bronck? 15. After the difficulty with the Raritans and with the Wicquaesgeckers had been arranged and peace concluded, did not our people …

For what reason, and by whose authority did he, the Secretary, insert the words -- "the whole of the Commonalty or free people and by their order" -- in the petition, when he, indeed, well knew that no person either without, or on, the Manhatans had any knowledge of it except Director Kieft, he, the Secretary, and those three petitioners also, that he should ; have considered that an affair o…

Did not these Indians fly thither through dread of the Maykanders, who were at that time their enemies, in the hope of being protected by our people? 23. Is not true, that a troop of armed soldiers were sent by order of Mr. Kieft, on the next it night to the aforesaid place, and a party of freemen behind Corlear's plantation on the Manhatans, who slew a large number of these Indian refugees, a…

Was not your Reverence in the room with the late Director General Kieft when the three men, namely, Maryn, Adriaensen, Jan Claessen Daem, and Abram Planck, presented their petition respecting the demand for the war against the Natives ? 2. Is the conversation between Mr. Kieft and the three men on that occasion still fresh in your Reverence's memory ? 3. Can he, the witness, conscientiously an…

By whom was the petition drawn, or did they request the writer to doit; or was he authorized by any person to that effect ? 5. Do they, the witnesses, likewise know that the aforesaid petition was copied by another, or did the writer draw it up of himself? 6. Did they, the witnesses, get an answer from Mr. Kieft on the same day, or was it when Councillor Johan de la Montaigne came from his bou…

respectfully represent that it is highly necessary J pound of powder to each man can be ill that your Honors do order a general Muster to afforded, as provision must be made for the take place once every year, under arms, on day of need, for which we must, above all condition that at the muster half a pound of things, prepare. Each Fatroon's establishment powder shall be given each man on the part…

Also, that the Council of New Netherland Letters have been sent to Holland, so that we shall from this time be rendered complete in expect to receive some persons of rank by the members, especially as tiie council of a small first ships, and thus have a complete Council. village in Fatherland consists of five @^ seven That the Commonalty should comment Schepens ; also, that from now henceforth the…

Also if your Honors please to choose four We are fully satisfied to choose 4 persons, persons who shall have access to the Council to assist in maintaining the Commonalty in their here, as your Honors formerly proposed, we right, and whom we will invite to our Council, should be much gratified, so that taxes may when necessity requires ; also to fix upon not be imposed on the country in the absenc…

places as he shall derive most advantage from, on condition of first receiving a regular pass and clearance from your Honors and paying therefor all such duties as to the Hon*"'" Company shall appertain. In case your Honors choose four of the fittest We are fully content that two of the four to appear in your Council, as stated, it remains be annually changed. to be noted that two of the four ret…

Also, that the value of money be raised in We shall raise the currency ; the placards order that it be retained here and not exported are prepared for that purpose, hence by foreign nations. All which we the petitioners pray may be duly considered by your Honors, and trust that herein shall be done what will be most beneficial for the Inhabitants. Done the 21 January, 1642. Was subscribed by diver…

We therefore, hereby forbid them calling any manner of assemblage or meeting, except by our express order, on pain of being punished as disobedient subjects. Done in fort Amsterdam, this eighth of February, 1642, in New Netherland. By order of the Hon*"'* Director and Council of New Netherland, (Signed) Cornelis van Tienhoven, Secretary. Ex-Director Kieft to Director Stuyvesant. To Myn Heer Gen…

That princely power was usurped. 5. That the Eight men received foul taunts and reproaches when assembled, and that they scarcely dare open their mouths. 6. That they conceded our proposal of the excise. 7. That the little Book treating of the war, contained as many lies as lines. That the Indians were previously like lambs, and that men were seized with a rash hankering for war, and by an …

Jacob Stoffelse and Jsack Allerton principally implored the people to sign --yea, even after the letter was off to Holland, they suborned, according to Melyn's own acknowledgment, the Secretary's clerk, and caused him also to sign, thus abusing our Lords Patroons, making them believe that the original letter was subscribed by the Eight men, cheating the good people, and endeavoring with false and…

P, To the Hon'''^ Peter Stuyvesant, Director General of New Netherland, Cura9ao and the Islands thereabout, and to the Hon"* Council. Hon"' Gentlemen The written demand of the late Director General Kieft was sent to us by the Court messenger about 9 o'clock 5n the 19"" June of this year, 1644, with express orders to answer thereunto within twice 24 hours. Coming then to the point -- Mr. Kieft …

They admit first, that 130 soldiers had come in the Blue Cock, commanded by the aforesaid Captain. 2°. There were yet also at that time between 40 and 50 old soldiers, exclusive of the English who, according to our best judgment, were full 50 strong. There were, likewise, at this time, between 50 and 60 sailors or seafaring people, who were willing to, as they sometime afterwards did, serve the co…

Company's servants, and thus, whenever a calculation in gross is made from what we have enumerated, it will, without making a very strict examination, be found that probably between 3 and 400 men could be brought before many days into the field against the enemy, as stated in the letter; and yet they could miss the few opportunities which they still possessed to restore, through God's mercy, a des…

Your Honors will please to observe in the two remonstrances or protests of Thomas Hall and the late Barent Dircksen, what defence or assistance was furnished to any of ours at that time. 3. The piles of ashes from the burnt houses, barns, barracks and other buildings, and the bones of the cattle, more than sufficiently demonstrate the ordinary care that was bestowed We respectfully request your…

Arent van Curler verbally communicated that information to us as worthy of belief; and that the aforesaid Curler declared, at the house of the Minister, Everhardus Bogardus, in the presence of Captain de Vries, that he had heard Mons"' de la Montaigne complain in the tavern to Martin Krygier, that Mr. Kieft's power in this country was greater and more extensive, as regards his commission, than was…

Kieft sent for us on the subject of the demanded toll, and left us sitting in the room from eight o'clock until noon, without asking us a question notwithstanding we frequently notified him by the messenger of our arrival and of our being there in waiting to hear what his Honor would please to submit to us, but not a word in explanation did his Honor send us, and leaving the business unfinished we…

Kieft, that we had committed an error on this point in our communication; but 'tis to be feared that, when compared with other declarations, something strange will be found in it. But we leave this on one side, and refer to our Minister and Cornells van Tienhoven, the Secretary, both of whom read it for the purpose of punctuating it, and who flung it from the table on account of the nonsense they …

Would to God we may be found to be liars on this point. But the truth thereof shall be more than sufficiently established hereafter before their High Mightinesses. 9. That there was at the time a supply of 2,500 pounds of powder. We shall not assert precisely if there were 2 or 300 pounds more or less, but merely say, that there ought to have been a good portion according tola Montaigne's own ack…

We do not corroborate the whole of this matter in our letters; we merely say, that we believe it. 2. As this point has no relation to the general affairs of the country, but merely regards the difficulty between Mr. Kieft and the above named skipper, we shall therefore refrain from it and pass to the conclusion. His Honor says, first, that all these points of our letter are false libels and lies a…

They, especially Jacob Stoffelsen and Isack Allerton, cheated the good people whose names they dishonestly made use of, and whom they imploringly besought to sign, thus deceiving the Lords Patroons, inducing them to believe that the original letter was signed by the Eight men. This appears, indeed, clear, be it remarked, that when the letter was exhibited to them they acknowledged here before your…

We willingly confess that we have not experienced what the philosopher here represents, for not an unkind word was exchanged between us and Mr. Kieft in our intercourse with that gentleman. His Honor must prove that the Eight chosen men, who were elected by the Commonalty and approved and authorized by his Honor and his Council, acted unlawfully in communicating to their High Mightinesses and Lord…

shall remain in shame and disgrace ; if the contrary be established, to wit, that it was urged forward through his own fancy, let us then once see what the law of nations thinks of it; for in the exacting of punishment, this law must first of alt be observed, so that no war be ever again undertaken, unless men are stronger than the opposite party. For not only doth prudence, or the love of one's o…

For this reason Linius says -- " That is a just war, which is a necessary one." James, King of Great Britain, in his lifetime admitted this; and Propertius says " A soldier -- must bear arms in order thereby to control arms." Moreover, even just cause, does not oblige rulers to undertake war for their subjects, except it can be done without damage to all, or the majority of them. For the office …

a war for a great cause." From all that has been here stated on the subject of war, it can readily be concluded how prudently we must proceed in the matter; and how hazardous it is to engage in it, especially with so rude and barbarous a people as these Indians are. This being now laid aside, let us conclude. As regards the letter to the XIX. by the Blue Cock, we cannot produce it, inasmuch as we …

It is remarked, that Mr. Kieft demands in his declaration, which was read to us in your Honor's court on the 1S"» instant, that we be sent to Holland as pests and seditious persons. We, therefore, respectfully request of your Honors that it be granted to us, not to go as pestilent and seditious persons, as his Honor represents, but as good patriots and proprietors of New Netherland this, it is man…

Finally and lastly, we respectfully pray the General and Council to be pleased to legally call together, before the departure of the Princess, all the freemen and Company's servants, who have survived the war, and ask them conjointly the following question, to wit: If we did not live in peace with these surrounding Indians before they were slaughtered, in February, 1643, on Jan de Lacher's hook, …

We were greatly rejoiced at the miraculous arrival of the Blue Cock here with so many of the Company's people, and therefore hoped that the field would be taken with between three and four hundred men, (not including the sailors and settlers,) divided into three companies of one hundred and thirty men each, and by this force, the neighboring savages for 15 (al 20 miles around, would have had the…

In the meanwhile the Indians secreted without molestation their fish caught this last summer on the river, of which they had uninterrupted use at their pleasure. Our fields lie fallow and waste; our dwellings and other buildings are burnt; not a handful can be planted or sown this fall on all the abandoned places. The crop, which God the Lord permitted to come forth during the past summer, remains…

There are amongst us, who by the sweat and labor of their hands, have been endeavoring at great expense, to improve their lands and gardens; others with their own capital, have equipped with every necessary their own ships, which have been captured by the enemy in coming hither, though they have continued the voyage with equal zeal, and at considerable cost. Some, again, independent of tiie Compan…

All these are now laid in ashes through a foolish hankering after war ; for it is known to all right thinking men here, that these Indians have lived as lambs among us until a few years ago, injuring no one, affording every assistance to our nation, and had in Director van Twiller's time (when supplies had not been sent for several months), furnished provisions to several of the Company's servants…

against the other; but to establish harmony again, is in the power of God alone." A semblance of peace was attempted to be patched up last spring with one or two tribes of Savages towards the North by a foreigner ' whom we, for cause, shall not now name, without one of the Company's servants having been present, whilst our principal enemies are left unmolested. This place hath borne little fruit …

The cause of this is, that they have not experienced any opposition from us this summer, nor lost any of their crops. And, thus, have they circumvented us by a strategem under pretense of peace. Had diligence which is most necessary in time of war, been used, as we requested, with the force of the Blue Cock, during this season, the Indians would, beyond a peradventure, have made advances themselve…

Two guides have recently been called from the North with whom Captain De Vries was sent, on the 22'' instant, with a party on an expedition in that direction. They killed eight* but as the saying is -- " Whenever we lay one enemy low. On the morrow another returns the blow." With those raw and naked soldiers who have resided for so many years in warm climates, we shall have to wade in frost and s…

For the sake of appearances, Twelve men were called together here, in November, 1642^ pn the subject of the murder of Claes, the wheelwright; the Director submitted to them whether the blood of the aforesaid wheelwright should not be avenged? Whereupon divers debates arose on the one side and the other, as the document will show; for at this time a hankering after war had wholly seized on the Dire…

It was, indeed, sufficiently manifest how little were these Eight men respected, for no sooner did they open their mouths to propose anything tending in their judgment to the public good, than the Director met them with sundry biting and scoffing taunts ; and sometimes had them summoned, without asking them a question, thus obliging them to return amidst jeers and sneers, as wise as they went. We …

there was a more suitable means devisable, by which the poor Commonalty could be spared (to wit), that the private traders, who had drawn excessive profits from the country, by their injurious usury, should contribute something to the public service. And what further followed is seen in two different Remonstrances; but the Director was pleased to disregard this; rejected it, as utterly unworthy, a…

On that subject it contains as many lies as lines as we are informed by the ; Minister and others who have read it; and from our time to his, as few facts as leaves. It is to be embellished with an oil painting. We shall not question what sort of birds are in the woods, nor what species offish resort the rivers here; nor the length and breadth of the land. All tins is more copy, and has been l…

But with your permission we shall postpone it to a more appropriate time. Honored Lords ! This is what we have, in the sorrow of our hearts, to complain of; that one man, who has been sent out, sworn and instructed by his Lords and masters, to whom he is responsible, should dispose here of our lives and properties at his will and pleasure, in a manner so arbitrary that a King dare not legally do t…

For it is impossible ever to settle this country until a different system be introduced here, and a new Governor sent out with more people, who will settle in suitable places, one near the other, in the form of villages or hamlets, and elect from among themselves a Bailiff or Schout and Schepens, who will be empowered to send their deputies and give their votes on public affairs with the Director …

IsACK Allerton, Jacob Stoffelsen, This is the mark ~~j y of Thomas Hall, Gerrit Wolffersen, Jan Evertsen Bout, made by himself. The mark p of CoRNELis Melyn, Barent Dikcksen, made by himself. Judgment pronounced hy Director Stmjvesant on Jochem Pietersen Kmjter. It. 1647. The 10 August this was sent to my house by the clerk, Jacob Kieft. Whereas, Jochim Pietersen Kuyter, aged 50 years, a n…

We and Our Council having inquired and taken testimony as to the truth thereof, at the request of said Director Kieft, it is, accordingly, found that such libelous letter is in many parts, false, lying and defamatory, as appears and is proved by experience and by the evidence of others heard to the number of fifteen ; also, by the confession and answers of the co-signers ; Therefore, the Fiscal in…

Therefore the Hon''''' Director General Petrus Sluyvesant, with the advice of his Hon"' Council, administering justice in the name of their High Mightinesses, the Lords Slates General, his Serene Highness, the Hon'''' Directors of the Incorporated West India Company, hath condemned, as he hereby doth condemn, the abovenamed Jochem Pietersen, to a banishment of three consecutive years, and to depar…

Resolutions of the States General on the opening of Trade in New Netherland. [ From the Ecgiater of West India Affairs, 1638--1651, in the Eoyal ArcliiTea al the Hague. ] Saturday, IS"" January, 1648. Foiio324. rphe am last section of the Management of the Company which treats The seventh and New Netherland how to frequent it. ; Difference belw Qf ]\jg^ Netherlaud, is taken up, and resolved t…

export their country produce under suitable duty, in their .,,,.,. own , i.. or chartered ships, to Brazil and Angola, on these following conditions: first, that the aforesaid ships, when in Brazil, shall not be at liberty to return back, with sugars to New Netherland aforesaid, but shall let themselves be chartered directly hither. Secondly, that the permit to proceed to Angola above mentioned,…

proved by Zealand. January last. Resolution of the States General on Complaints against Directors Kieft and St'uyvesant. [ From the Eegister of West India Affairs, 1638--1651, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague.] Friday, ?" February, 1648. Priva^°"c°orpiaint8 ^^^^ two petitions of Jochem "Pieters' C. Melyn, and Michiel Bucquet, ofNewNet^Miand! Complaining of the Directors Kieft and Stuyvesan…

Brazil, in their own ships, fish, flour and country produce, the growth of that country and no other, in the manner and form granted in the next preceding article, as stipulated of wines and oil, on such duty as is paid in the country to the Company on the exportation thereof, on condition that the ships from Brazil must not return to New Netheriand with any cargo, but come directly hither with th…

Kegniation reapect- ^^w Netheriand Can never be a source of profit for the Company, until the '" ^"'^ Kfiheriand' population from our country be encouraged more than it has hitherto been, which can be effected by allowing them, in addition to their present privilege, to export their fish, flourand produce, the growth of that couutry and no other, to Brazil, in private or the Company's ships, unde…

Coui missiouers on the Redress of the declining affairs of the West India Company, have reported in virtue of, and pursuant to your High Mightinesses' resolution of the SS* March 1647, adopted before granting the Charter of the West India Company, and made on your High Mightinesses' letters to the respective Chambers dated W December 1647, to send their respective deputies to the Hague by the 7"" …

And whereas the present statement was made up at the time of the Portuguese rebellion in Brazil, in the lowest condition of that conquest, your High Mightinesses' Commissioners also requested of the Accountants the statement of the Company's receipts and expenditure in Brazil, previous to the rebellion, in order to ascertain whether, in case of the re-establishment of Brazil, means are to be found…

And, hereupon, were divers good opinions brought in, as is to be seen from the report (No. 3) of the business transacted thereupon, from the 9 January to the ll"" February; the opinions of the five Chambers of Amsterdam, Zealand, Maaze, North Quarter and Groningen No. 4 :with, likewise, the general report ( No. 5 ) drawn up from the aforesaid opinions of the five Chambers, and of the delegates fro…

And your High Mightinesses' Commissioners hereunto would propose, as prompt means: -- 1° A reduction of expenses both at home and abroad, and with this view, the stoppage and cessation of the yearly allowance of Eighty-eight Directors and their attendants (suppoosteii), which amounts to about one hundred and fifty thousand guilders, according to the return of the Accountants General, No. 8. And i…

The Amsterdam Chamber ought to have the Advocate with two clerks, one porter and two messengers. Each of the other Chambers might have one clerk, acting also as Book-keeper, one porter and one messenger, the expense of which would amount yearly, according to the rate of pay now given, as by the specification. No. 8, is to be seen. Tiiese six Accountants and nineteen Directors should have the manag…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: III. 219 And when deliberating on future important affiiirs, the aforesaid nineteen Directors could be Bummoned to the Hague, in order provisionally for one, two or three years to do the business which the Assembly of the Nineteen is wont to transact. The reduction of the Company's foreign expenses in Brazil and other countries, could be effected according as your High Might…

The best and greatest oeconomy consists in rendering the Company's servants, high and low, accountable for their respective offices, so that they shall be bound to vindicate the same, and to send over to the Chamber of Accounts their written return within one month after the expiration of the year, to be examined, balanced and corrected, according to their respective commissions, for the settlemen…

convey hither the advices respecting, and from, Brazil during the employment of the Military for the recovery of that place. 3. The third means is, that an effort be made to promote trade to the Caribbean islands, according to the regulation concluded thereupon, and as it is hoped three or four tons of gold will be yearly realized from such trade, that the proceeds be applied to the interest of t…

The trade and commerce to Angola is with the special permission of the Chambers, laid open pursuant to a certain regulation, for two years. From this source a good return may also be expected for the support of the Company. The trade to New Netherland is in like manner opened, in order that the grain and produce of that country may be exported to other places ; the regulation whereof, as well as o…

And the aforesaid subsidies would tend to the recovery and preservation of a mighty Kingdom, to the security of this state against all hostile machinations, and to the enlarging of a wished for trade in sugars, Brazil wood and other costly wares. Which Military could afterwards, when Brazil, through the blessing of God the Lord, shall be reduced, be paid out of the tenths and the proceeds from the…

The Accountants can inquire into, and make pertinent report hereupon, according to the evidence of those who are acquainted therewith, so that such collection may be made from time to time, when Brazil is restored, and further abuses therein be prevented at the right time. The required indemnity for damages committed in Brazil by the Portuguese and Rebel inhabitants in sugars, houses, mills, gold,…

The seventh means is: The prosecution of the Salt trade at Punto del Rey, which might by inductive means, be facilitated by the Spanish plenipotentiaries before the ratification, by our plenipotentiaries, of the Treaty of Peace at Munster ; the rather, as the inhabitants of Spain do not draw any salt from Punto del Rey. It is necessary that the cultivation of wheat and other produce be promoted fo…

The Commissioners, with this report, deliver the papers therein mentioned, with the commissions from the respective Chambers, to the deputed Directors with whom they have acted, as is to be seen by the annexed register. Eesoiutiod of states General on Ihe pre- Whlch being° taken into consideration, their High o Mightinesses o have thanked ceding Keporu the above mentioned, their Commissioners,…

N" 4.* Opinion of five Chambers, to wit, Amsterdam, N° 1 ; Zealand, 2 ; the Maaze, 3 ; North Quarter, 4; Groningen, 5. N° 5. General Report drawn up from the aforesaid opinions of the five Chambers. N" 6. Advice of the Lords of Holland, with remarks of the respective Chambers in the margin. N" 7. Advice of the Company's Chamber of Accounts, N" 8.* Statement of the Chamber of Accounts, respecting …

N° 14.* Extract of Pieter van der Hagen's account of debts due the Company, to the amount of seventy-nine tons of gold. N° 15.* Commissions of the respective Chambers for the business respecting the redress of the West India Company. (No. 5.) Memoir to serve for a general Report of the Directors deputed by the respective Chambers of the West India Company, in the matter of Superintendence, Retr…

It was heretofore considered, that it had reference particularly and exclusively to the the trade and commerce prosecuted by the Company, or by individuals with the Company's permission, within the limits and districts of the charter, whence have arisen a great many disputes up to this time among the Chambers but such ; order has at present been provisionally made therein, as can be deduced from …

Order and Regulation of the General Incorporated West India Company, made at the Assembly of the XIX., with the approbation of the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands, by and pursuant to which each and every of the inhabitants of the United Provinces shall be at liberty to trade to certain parts hereinafter mentioned, within the limits of the above named Company's c…

decree and ordain anew, that the ships of the aforesaid inhabitants shall be at liberty henceforth to sail in the West Indies, to wit, from the River Oronoco, westward along the coast of Paria, Cumana, Venezuela, Carthagena, Porto Bello, Honduras, Campeachy, the Gulf of Mexico and the coast of Florida also, between and around all the Islands situate within the ; said district, even to Curasao, B…

The ships which will repair to the before mentioned permitted parts within the charter, must be provided with clearance and authority from the General Incorporated West India Company, at the Assembly of the XIX, which shall be issued to the skippers, owners or charter-party, in the Chamber from which they shall conclude to send out their respective ships, under the penalty that those who let their…

tobacco or cotton, and all other wares and merchandises, the growth of the aforesaid limits, but it is, also, designed to commit offensively and defensively, every hostility and damage on the King of Castile's subjects, they shall be also obliged to take with them a commission from his Highness the Lord Prince of Orange, as Captain Admiral General together with the permit of the General Incorporat…

And the aforesaid ships shall be bound to take on board one Supercargo to whom, pursuant XIX. adopted the 4 October 1643, to the resolution of the shall be given instruction and commission at the Chamber where the aforesaid ships who shall have his berth and table in the cabin, at the expense of the ship and her owners, his monthly wages being 224 NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. paid by the Compa…

The skippers being desirous to take with them, in the outward voyage, any goods, wares or merchandise in the aforesaid ships, whether as their own freight, or on commission, shall make true entry thereof to the Company by notice under their hand, and afterwards break bulk in their stores, that such goods may be inspected and marked with the Company's mark, and pay therefor the amount of the public…

prizes which may be captured in their presence, unless they be, by the Admiral General or Commander of the said Company's ships, expressly requested to assist, in which case the prizes which shall have been captured by the Company's ships and them conjointly, shall be equally divided according to the ship's equipment, guns and force, and from their portion shall moreover be paid the Company's shar…

Item ; the aforesaid ships will be at liberty to sell and dispose, within the before described limits of the charter, the goods,wares and merchandise they take with them, and in return to buy, obtain and take in others such as Timber, Salt, Tobacco, Cotton, Hides etc., the produce of those parts, either on their own account, or as freight or on commission, and bring them over here in their ships. …

South or North of the Tropic of Cancer, either in their voyage out or home, which shall be declared good prizes by the Court of Admiralty, and that as well in ships, cannon, as in goods, without any exception, they shall pay, as a recognition, to the Company, in addition to his Highness' right, twenty per cent, besides all rights to which the same shall be bound and rated as Company's prizes, and …

Dried Codfish, Campeachy wood, ten per centum. Brazil wood, seven and a half per cent. Lignum vitas, yellow wood, five per cent. On Sugars, one-third part shall be paid in kind. Imported tobacco shall not pay for convoy and recognition any more than sixty stivers per hundred pounds, from which one-fourth shall be deducted as allowance for stems, rottenness, dampness or other damage but the foreign…

And in order that the Inhabitants of these United Countries may be at liberty to trade and sail with strange and foreign ships, so shall, likewise, all strange and foreign vessels bringing into these countries Timber, Salt, Tobacco, and all other the aforesaid wares, fruits and merchandises from the West Indies or the Limits of the Charter granted to the Company, whether on their own account, on f…

All skippers, owners and freighters of ships belonging to these countries trading to the aforesaid permitted Limits of the Charter, shall be bound to return with their ships and all their cargo, and captured prizes or prize goods, to this country to the Chamber whence they sailed, under the penalty of the ship and goods, or the value thereof, to be recovered as in Articles one and two, without bei…

Which aforesaid deputies shall have power to search any ship or ships entering any of the ports in this country, to place on board at least two trust-worthy persons as watchmen, so that the Company may not be defrauded on the way between the aforesaid ports and the destined places of unloading, and the skippers, officers or crew shall not embarrass the aforesaid watchmen either by word or deed, no…

On the return of the ships from the voyage, the skipper, owner or freighter shall be hound to surrender the permit or authority obtained from the said Incorporated West India Company, together with the commission of his Highness, the Prince of Orange, if any he has had, back to the Chamber whence it was received within the space of six days, on pain, in case of failing herein, of paying a sum of t…

Moreover, in order that this Regulation be observed and enforced by those of the West India Company, and that no license or authority to trade within the limits of the Charter be granted except by those of the General Incorporated West India Company at the Assembly of the XIX., it is expressly declared, that all those who shall sail with their authority to the permitted Limits of the Charter, shal…

Thus provisionally enacted and resolved by the General Incorporated West India Company at the Assembly of the XIX., with the approbation of the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands, at Middelburgh, in Zealand, the 14"" October, 1645. Free Trade, 7. The scvcnth and last place is New Netherland, which the majority consider will be best benefited by granting individuals the…

In order, however, to afford some opportunity for such action, these following points were, by one and the other Chamber, submitted for consideration 1. Whether the Company's own large ships ought not to be sold, or only a certain number of them retained ? 2.Ought not the Company disembarrass itself of the large quantity of cannon, &c., which here and there among the Chambers ? is still 3. Oug…

In Order to allow the Company to recuperate, and to subsist for the future, the respective Chambers consider these two means necessary. 1. First, that the Brazilian conquests be purged at the public charge and by the public force; the petition for six thousand men is to that effect. 2. Secondly, that it ought to receive the East India Company's duties to the amount of fifteen hundred thousand gu…

West Friesland and the North Quarter are of opinion, if aflfairs be redressed and brought in train according to their advice, that the Company will be sufficiently able to exist of itself. 8. Stadt en Land' requires only payment of the subsidies in arrear, in addition to the general means hereinbefore mentioned. These are, in fact, three points whereupon run the opinions of the respective Chamber…

1" July, 1647, to attend to the establishment Company, having pursuant to the order of the of good and proper order in the government of deputies of the High and Mighty Lords States the Incorporated West India Company, and General, examined the annexed advice, have the redress of all such matters and abuses as adjoined thereunto, as their opinions, vphat might have been found to exist to the preju…

First, the Management in regard to Navigation and Trade. 2. Secondly, Retrenchment and redress; and Thirdly, Means of support; and that upon all these points very good suggestions have been made in the vs^ritten Memoir of the aforesaid joint or general advice of the deputed Directors of the respective Companies whereunto they refer, except that certain articles relating to hostility or enmity sh…

Which Commissaries shall pay the Military in Brazil on the footing, and according to the down in the aforesaid advice regulation, laid of the Chamber of Westfriesland and North Quarter, out of the duties, freightsand convoys; also, out of about three hundred thousand guilders to be sent them from Fatherland, in and other dry goods flour out of the recognitions and convoys of the country produce …

Also, that no wet wares shall be sent on the Company's account, but only flour, beef, pork, oil, butter, dried codfish and cheese, leaving the aforesaid wet goods exclusively to individuals who will be at liberty, on permission, or on excusable reasons and immediate notice, to export from the Islands aforesaid, Spanish wines and oils in their own or private ships, on paying the duty and convoy in …

That the north coast of Africa can be The coast of Guinea ought, according to the resorted to by the joint vessels bringing the enacted regulation, be frequented in turns by proceeds of their trade to tbe Castle Del Mina, the respective Chambers, but what regards the in order that it may come pro rata to the remainder of the north coast, the management respective Chambers. thereof shall remain pro…

That the Directors of the respective Cham- As well as what is here enacted, bers shall not, either directly nor indirectly, endeavor to overreach one another with the crew, nor seek to draw trade away from one city to the other. 12. That their High Mightinesses' approval And the approval of the regulation respecting ought to be requested for the regulation more the Caribbean traders, which is r…

That, inmanner, the factors vphom like In like manner no more factors shall be the outer Chambers have introduced into employed at Amsterdam by the Chambers, Amsterdam, contrary to the 26"" Article of the except by Zealand and Siadt en Lande, on Charter, ought to be dispensed with, because account of the distance of their places. they draw wages from said Chambers, and pay separate store rent; an…

Moreover, said Assembly of the XIX., at its The Commissioners ought indeed be appointadjournment, shall appoint certain Commis- ed by the Assembly of the XIX., but in regard sioners from among the Directors, each in the to,and in correspondence with, the general city where his Chamber is established, which Board of accounts, to which alone, and accor- Commissioners shall, each in his place, take d…

That the Military or soldiers in the Com- The annexed article is found very useful, pany's service shall be paid in money in this but is as yet impracticable in consequence of manner, to wit: of each year on foreign the unfavorable condition of the Company, service, six months shall be retained ; two for the wives and children, and the remaining four months shall remain until the return of the afo…

amount as the members of the Board shall agree upon among themselves. 23. And that each of said Directors shall As well as the order which ought to be henceforth serve nine years instead of six. enacted respecting these two points. 24. And be obliged continually to reside within the cities where their Chambers are established. 25. And as regards the premised Chief point respecting the afores…

And moreover, a pertinent statement ought The votes of subsidies ought to be taken to be prepared and exhibited by their High according to the estimate of the increase and Mightinesses' Secretary and by the aforesaid the petitions of the Council of State consequent General Board of accounts; also by all the Cham- thereupon, that is up to the close and last of bers of the West India Company, respec…

That in the foregoing required statement The first part of the annexed article has been ought to be noted, what provinces have not complied with, and what regards the remainder thus far voted subsidies for the Company, nor the Board will act as it deems most proper. paid these when voted as Holland has done; and the provinces in arrears ought then to be admonished, to clear up their deficiency so …

That finally, the stockholders of the West The Directors trust that on the adoption of India Company ought to be required and a resolution to the effect aforesaid by the Board, obliged to increase their stock in said Company for the advantage of the Company, the worthy twelveper cent ; one-third part of said increase Stockholders will be disposed to add a new payable six weeks after having rec…

Considerations of the Board of Audit of the West India Company regarding the reform of said Company, drawn up pursuant to the order of the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands and delivered to their High Mightinesses' Commissioners at the Hague, the 27 May, 1647. chkmbetofAocounto ^he decHue of the Company's affairs and the difficulty in which they are at Eedresa. pr…

already dispatched, (which was not found sufficient against such a united body of Portuguese rebels,) a competent and combined military force be voted anew by the State, and conveyed to Brazil with ships, ammunition and other necessaries, not only to recover and clear our frontiers, but also to prosecute further designs either against Bahia, as the chief seat of the war and of the piratical practi…

Respecting Angola: it must be borne in mind that our people do no not fare much better there than in Brazil, inasmuch as we are advised by the latest letters, dated last May, that the Portuguese in the interiorhaving received a great accession of force, had, after a victory obtained over the Queen Donna Anna Ciuga, united with some tribes of Blacks, to drive our people wholly from that country. Ou…

Moreover, they have cost the Company and individuals so many millions, and can contribute so essentially to the damage of the general enemy and the security of this State, that your High Mightinesses will be induced in your wisdom and generosity to contribute further aid, and to vote for a short period, the oft requested succor, which indeed ought to be done early, if possible, considering that th…

Amsterdam,.... 27 Ilercupon it is to be duly considered, that the number of Directors, which with .....". mmz",.'. 17 the Supernumeraries, consists at present of 89 persons, could be diminished at Korth Quarter, .14 Groeningen 14 least one-third, and reduced to two-thirds without prejudice to the business to be ^ transacted by the Company, provided that the Supernumeraries be obliged to remove t…

In order to encourage the Directors the more in their duties in this regard, and that the Company may not experience any inconvenience from the too rapid change thereof, the term of their office ought to be extended somewhat longer than by the old charter; or the retiring Directors ought to be at least reeligible after the expiration of their term, the same as if they were nominated anew by the ch…

Again, the Maaze Chamber is divided, after the three cities,^ into three Boards; those of the North Quarter into two;^ each of which, as well as each Chamber, of 4, 2, and -J-, has its separate government, with little direct communication with the others; each in particular hath, also, its own Bookkeepers, Cashiers, storekeepers, houses, yards, stores and whatever ' Rotterdam, DorJreetit, Delft. …

the Directors of the cities in which the Chamber was not, at the then present time established, or at least some of them, must also remove their residence thither, on condition that such Directors receive a larger stipend than their associates who do not change residence; and the others must attend as often as summoned by the Chambers. The ships should also be equipped and fitted out during the af…

The details of each Chamber may be distributed within itself, among different Commissaries, to wit: to take charge of accounts and the office, the cash; the merchandise; the stores; the wet and dry provisions. In regard to their administration, they ought to keep a register and books, in order to render an account at the Assembly, and to furnish at all times a statement without hiring bookkeepers …

The trouble and commission imposed on each by his Chamber, especially such as being deputed by the general vote of the Board to repair to the XIX., or beyond the city, ought to be undertaken and attended to by every one, without exception, so that each work may be performed by those who are considered best adapted for it; should such be declined, without sufficient cause, the person so declining o…

The Assembly of the XIX., wherein all matters appertaining to the Company must be treated and concluded, has not for a considerable time, had such speedy despatch and expedition as the Company's service indeed required ; for, first, the points of reference being drawn up according to the resolution of a Chamber, which temporarily presides, and frequently not including all the important points, the…

In order to remedy and prevent these disorders in part, there was established by the XIX., in the year 1643, at the instance of their High Mightinesses' deputies, a Board of Accounts, composed of six persons ; Amsterdam Chamber, and one from each of to wit, two from the the other Cliambers, who were to prepare and report all the matters to be transacted by the XIX. against the meeting of that bod…

it from the respective Chambers, tiie essential knowledge of their administration could not be obtained. Nevertheless, we cannot yet see any fitter means of keeping in order the entire body of the Company and each Chamber in particular, than the establishment of such a general and permanent body, on a plan similar to that of said Board of Accounts, but furnished with greater authority for the exe…

and cause their accounts here, or in Brazil, or other places, to be charged with such fine, and allow them to receive so much the less returns; or, on the commission of grave faults and negligences, to speak personally to the Directors, who are guilty thereof; which Board, as possessing constant knowledge of the affiiirs, must also summon the Assembly of the XIX., on points to be drawn up by it, g…

By this means frequent and lengthy sessions of the XIX., at vast expense to the Company, might be dispensed with, and these need not be held more than once, or at most, twice a year, for which time all business should be prepared by the aforesaid permanent Board, and full information and explanation given of the circumstances of the foreign conquests, as well as of the state of the receipts and ex…

In which case, this Board, being general and impartial, would study the common interest of the Company and hold such balance between the Chambers as that the one would not be wronged or oppressed by the other. snperintendence in Thus much of the Superintendence in this country. ihu country. rp|^g government of Brazil being after mature deliberation, recently composed of one president and four su…

It has been heretofore proposed that, by reducing the number of the Directors to two-thirds, one-third of their salaries could be saved and the allowances to those still employed, or in lieu thereof the existing pay, be so modified, according to the present condition of the Company that, they being satisfied with a tantum to be fixed by your High Mightinesses until the Company's revenues should …

Assemblies of the XIX., especially, could be dispensed with, in case a general and permanent Board (whereof mention has been already made) were established, whose expenses would be sufficiently and abundantly economized, were it only in the matter of multitudinous deputations and fruitless meetings. The Company will be principally obliged to get rid of a portion of its ships, which, including cann…

and Directors to induce the one to attend to the business of the other, as is customary with the East India Company. More precise recommendations on the point of Retrenchment in the several Chambers could be submitted, had they condescended to send us, pursuant to the order of the XIX. and to our letters, the ordinary and extraordinary expenses each has to bear in its own department but having nev…

There are a number of commissaries, assistants and other followers, hired and employed in disbursing the weekly rations and pay in divers garrisons, who by their frauds, estimates of leakage, and other sinister practices, swindle the Company of a considerable amount. The greater part of this could be saved, were the soldiers there paid in money, as we have more fully submitted to the XIX., and …

Comiug HOW to the third point of trade and commerce ; the Company ought either to carry it on itself or allow private persons to prosecute it, since serious and lengthy disputes have arisen on the subject among the Chambers to the sensible deterioration of the Company. 'Twere well an end were at once put to these disputes, yet with such circumspection that, the trade being regulated for the presen…

the remaining places within the Charter where the Company maintains government, forts or quarters, ought to be considered under two divisions, some being of a nature not to demand any cultivation or population, affording simply trade others again, where the lands must ; necessarily be first improved by agriculture and population if they are to render any return of moment. The first division incl…

That coast is, in consequence, much resorted to by foreign nations, so that if other arrangements be not, in a short time, adopted in the premises, it runs great risk of being wholly filched, or at least rendered unproductive for the Company. There is no other way to prevent this than to appropriate a certain cash capital and fund which ought to remain specially applied thereunto in the hands suf…

Free access and unrestricted trade are considered suitable means to that end, although our people will not easily settle there on account of the insalubrity of the climate, and because the best and most productive spots are already sufficiently peopled and cultivated by Portuguese; so that nothing more remains than to take the sugars and other produce of these people and to supply them, in return,…

This is, in our opinion, as yet, premature, and cannot be absolutely decided at present, partly because it is not yet known, with certainty, what is the condition of things there at this moment, and whether the inland trade through the Portuguese is not altogether closed to private persons as well as to the Company. Secondly because Brazil is not yet recovered and reduced to order; according to th…

Experience teaches that slaves, in consequence of the scarcity of money in Brazil, do not fetch as much cash as the Company expends in goods, outfit and freight inclusive; so that the maintenance of the garrisons in Angola is mostly become a charge to the Company, and in consequence of giving credit for the slaves, without getting prompt payment in sugars or other returns from Brazil, the Chambers…

And were this means deemed useful not alone to relieve the Company henceforth from this disbursement and risk, but also to induce private individuals anew to hazard some more capital for the advancement of agriculture, and by the benefiting of one country through means of the other, furnisii the inhabitants and Traders with greater hope of profit; it is apparent that a greater number of slaves wil…

The slave trade to Brazil being opened with the approbation of the Chambers, it is to be further considered, as slaves during the revolt in Brazil cannot command any especial sale there, whether it would not be better to permit their exportation directly from Angola or at least from Brazil, to other places on double duty.But besides other difficulties which manifest themselves in this point, itmus…

In order to contrive a middle course herein, it is submitted, whether the business could not be so regulated that the slave staple be provisionally established at Brazil, so that all private traders from Angola must first touch there, without being able to go directly elsewhere ; expose the slaves to sale at the Recifl^, or barter them with the Seigniors of the Plantations (Ingenios) and not be at…

But whenever Brazil is supplied with slaves, or otherwise has no need of them, the remainder might be allowed, with the permission of the supreme government there, and on paying a reasonable toll, to be exported farther. By this means the slave trade which hath so long lain dormant, to the great damage of the Company, might by degrees be again revived ; Angola, independent of the Company's suppl…

Nevertheless, if slaves are to be properly treated, they must have their particular owners, each of whom undertakes colonies, plantations and farms according to his circumstances and means, and endeavors by slave labor to derive therefrom, either for immediate support or for exportation, whatever can be a source of profit. Population in Brazil can be promoted not only by pointing out for its suppo…

which do not sail before they are full, (a thing that sometimes takes a long while) merchants cannot make any calculation respecting the arrival of their goods at Brazil ; moreover, the Chambers whose turn it is to fit out ships, have frequently rejected goods of the greatest bulk and lowest duty, or left them lying a long time in store to the injury of the merchants, and sometimes the goods are n…

Otherwise, and if no better order be introduced among the alternating ships than has prevailed hitherto, private traders ought be allowed to prosecute the trade in their vessels, on a regulated plan, as proposed by the principal stockholders of Amsterdam and Zealand ; if, indeed, it is desirable that any merchant continue longer to trade to Brazil, when it is notorious, that the Company is not in …

Respecting New Netherland That country is considered to be the most fruitful of all within : your High Mightinesses' jurisdiction, and the best adapted to raise all sorts of this country produce, such as rye, wheat, barley, peas, beans, etc., and cattle; and that in more abundance than can be done here, were it suitably peopled and cultivated. The granting of Freedoms and Privileges, hath indeed…

By this means not only would Brazil be supplied with provisions at a cheaper rate, but New Netherland would by slave labor, be more extensively cultivated than it has hitherto been, because the agricultural laborers, who are conveyed thither at great expense to the Colonists, sooner or later apply themselves to trade, and neglect agriculture altogether. Slaves, on the other hand, being brought and…

Thomas and Angola, were not, sometimes since, properly supplied; yea more, they have been rather a burthen than a profit to the Company. The decline in the Company's finances is caused, among other things, by the heavy military force in Brazil ; especially during the war with the Portuguese. For this reason, the government of this country promised the Company, at the last augmentation of its ca…

The stockholders, to all appearance, will not be induced to subscribe any thing additional before Brazil be recovered, and, as already stated, placed in its previous condition ; because it is the principal pledge on which their money has been invested ; and even though restored, no assurance can be given them, that the ancient difficulty would not hereafter return, so long as the burthen of the mi…

Should the inhabitants of Brazil, considered as the subjects of this State, receive in this way that protection and benefit from your High Mightinesses which they might enjoy in this country, freemen would be encouraged to settle down there quietly under your High Mightinesses' guardianship, and Brazil being riveted to this country, might not only afford trade and support for many thousand people …

For the payment of the salaries of the superior officers in Brazil, which amount, as before stated, to over ten thousand guilders per month, and of other additional officers in the respective Colonies, who might be placed to the account of the General Company, the Commissioners recently at the Hague voted and applied on the tenth of December, the revenue and duty from privateers and private jmerch…

issue orders for the prompt execution of the resolutions adopted by the Chambers, so that the General Company may experience the benefit thereof, in the lessening of their common burthens. As regards the remaining charges, such as the current debts of the respective Chambers, the yearly interest of money in deposit, the accounts payable to those returning home from all quarters, and other expenses…

Whatever may remain from the aforesaid new subscription, ought to be applied to the liquidation of the most urgent debts and incumbrances, which cannot be "deferred. In case the Company be further aided by a subsidy, and somewhat relieved by your High Mightinesses, at least until its returns produce sufficient for the payment of the interest of the moneys on deposit, which, as above stated, were t…

jochu^''" ^iMeters "^'^^ additional petition presented, with divers papers annexed, to their High cuyte^r and Cornelia Mightinesses, in the name and on behalf of Jochum Pieters' Cuyter and Cornells Melyn is, after previous consideration, placed in the hands of the Mess" van der Capelle the Ryssel, and others their High Mightinesses' Deputies for the affairs concerning the Redress of the Decline …

West Indies, with the advice of his Council ; and the petitioners are further allowed and granted liberty to return to New Netherland aforesaid, and free and unmolested to use and enjoy their property there, the same as other Colonists and inhabitants, pending the case in appeal; and letters shall be addressed to the present commander and mutatis mutandis, to the government there, that they leave …

We have this day heard and considered the report of Mess" our Deputies, who, pursuant to our previous resolutions of the xi January last, and of the 9"" instant, have investigated and examined the several petitions presented unto us, in the name and on the behalf of Jochum Pieters Cuyter and Cornelis Melyn Cuyter and Melyn. also the papers thereunto ; annexed; and after previous deliberation hav…

you, and to you, that you shall allow the aforesaid petitioners to act order and charge unmolested and peaceably to enjoy the full effect of these, Our good designs and intentions, without failing in any way therein. Done 28"" April, 1648. Mandamus in Case of the Appeal of Messrs. Ciiyter and Alelyn. [From the AcU-boek of the States General, In the Eoyal Archirea at the Hague. ] Mandamus in ca…

Know Ye, that We have received the humble petition presented unto Us, by and on behalf of Jochim Pietersz Cuyter and Cornells Melyn, setting forth that they, the petitioners, had, by permission and leave of the Assembly of the Nineteen, of the General West India Company, transported themselves in the year One thousand six hundred and thirty-nine, with wives and children, and the means of private c…

The mischiefs which followed this deed of murder, massacre and other additional abominations, that Director Kieft, of his own motion, permitted at the time to be perpetrated on the innocent and guiltless Indians, which must startle the Christian heart that hears of them, may be fully seen in the original letter to the Nineteen.' The Eight chosen men were not aware that they had, in thus acting, co…

Petitioners have given offence by any improper papers, tending to injure New Netheriand or tiie pulilic vpeal (wiiich they in no way desired), they submit themselves here to such punishment as We shall find appropriate; but it will appear, on the contrary, that the Petitioners had no other aim in their writings than the promotion of the public good and the wished for peace in New Netheriand, and t…

The Petitioners, then, earnestly imploring that this, their humble petition, may by Us be taken into consideration, and they be granted their reasonable and fair request, which, also, the Assembly of the Nineteen itself promisedin their charter of 1630, to all Patroons and free inhabitants: seeing which, We, therefore, request and command you, who are hereby deputed hereunto, to summon, in Our nam…

Moreover, right stricly forbidding and commanding in Our behalf, on certain heavy penalties, the aforesaid defendants, and all others whom it may concern, that pending the matter in appeal, they neither do attempt, nor innovate any thing against the aforesaid Appellants, but, on the contrary, if any thing be done, attempted or innovated, that they immediately and without hesitation repair it, and …

Setting forth, that their High Mightinesses were pleased on the 28"" April last, to grant them, the petitioners, a Mandamus in case of appeal, with the clause suspending the sentence which Peter Stuyvesant, Director of New Netherland under the West India Company, with the advice of his Council, pronounced against them on the 25"" July, 1647, and that their High Mightinesses, in addition, have gran…

Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded, that agreeably to the Petitioners' request the aforesaid concession shall be notified to the aforesaid Assembly of the Nineteen, or in their absence to the presiding Chamber of the said Company; and to them, the Petitioners, shall be forthwith issued, Acte ad omnes Populos, and particularly to all those who, directly or indirectly, ar…

To all those who shall see or hear these read, Health : Be it Known, Whereas, We, on the 28"" April last, did grant unto Joachim Pietersz Cuyter and Cornelis Melyn provision of appeal with the clause of inhibition (according to the Letters thereof issued) from the respective sentences which Peter Stuyvesant, Director of New Netherland, in the West Indies, with the advice of his Council, pronounced…

We further charge and command all admirals, lieutenants and vice-admirals, captains, lieutenants, commanders and common soldiers and sailors, being directly in Our service, and in that of the General Incorporated West India Company of this country to afford and lend to the afore-named Joachim Pietersz. Cuyter and Cornelis Melyn in the prosecution of their aforesaid voyage to New Netherland, all he…

In fulfillment of their High Mightinesses' resolution of the 14"" instant, and the letters of the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company consequent thereupon, 254 NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Copies of autheniio Directof de Laet delivered unto the Assembly authentic copies of such treaties, treaties, ponlracts, Princes^and Pmelf' contracts and capitulations as the said West India Company…

[ From the Register of West India affairs, 1633--1651, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hagae.] Thursday, 22 October, 1648. Folio 431. Having heard the report of Mr. van Reinswoude who, in virtue of their "High Mightinesses' order yesterday, inspected and examined the petition, with the papers thereunto annexed, presented on the same day to their High Mightinesses, in the name and on behalf of Ta"nEe…

matter, it is and determined that copy of the aforesaid petition, as well as of resolved the papers thereunto annexed, be transmitted to the Assembly of the XIX. of the West India Company, at present convened in Amsterdam, in order to understand from it, without delay, whether it have any valid objections against the aforesaid investiture, and to communicate the same to them in the speediest mann…

The Directors of the Incorporated West India Company at the Amsterdam Chamber having received your High Mightinesses' letter of the SO"" October last with the copy of the petition presented on the same day to your High Mightinesses, by or on behalf of Jacob Tafyn, they state for information thereupon, that they have received advices by letter from Director Petrus Stuvesant, written in Fort Amsterd…

Then having remarked by the aforesaid letter that your High Mightinesses had provisionally staid the aforesaid sale, we have deemed it expedient, in addition to the present information and in consideration thereof, humbly to solicit your High Mightinesses, that we be at liberty to proceed, on the day appointed by the notices and of which the merchants are now advised, with the aforesaid sale, and …

The petition of Samuel Blommaert, Johannes de Laet, Margriete Reinst, Samuel Blommart j- r widow of Adam Bessels and Toussaint Muyssart, on and against the guardians ot i cum sociia. Colonie in New « _^ ^_ c Netherland. . the miuor son of Kiliaen van , , Renselaer, relative to , . • r^ certain Colonie oi \ • New i^-r Netherland [being read] ; copy thereof is, after previous deliberati…

Whereupon, deliberation being had, it is, previous to proceeding further herein, resolved and concluded, that the aforesaid petition shall be sent to the presiding Chamber of the aforesaid Company resident at Amsterdam for information. Resolution of the States General. Monday, 26 April, 1649. Folio 457. Johan van Weely The answer of Johan van Weely' and Wouter van Twiller, guardians ^ of Joban…

On consideration, it is hereby resolved and decided, to enlarge their High Mightinesses' order of the 31" May last, placed in the margin of the answer presented on the Samuel^ B^ommert game day to their High Mightinesses by Samuel Blommert and Jan de Laet jaadeLaet. qualuatc quiL to the efFect that Mess" Huygens, Vett and van der Hoolck, their High Mightinesses' preceding Deputies, shall be empow…

Renselaer's- Wyck in New Netherland, setting forth in effect, that they having appeared some months ago before their High Mightinesses' Commissioners, the order was made: that parties on both sides should exchange their papers within the space of fourteen days, and then deliver said papers with the Advertisements into the hands of said Commissioners, in order to make further disposition therein, a…

Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded that the guardians and heirs of Kiliaen van Renselaer shall be held, as they are hereby expressly ordered again within the space of eight days after the service hereof, to fulfill and obey their High Mightinesses' preceding order, on pain of deprivation of their right. Resolution of the States General on a letter received from Directo…

TJie Nine Men of New Netherland to the States General. [ From the Original In'lhe Eoyal Archives at the Hague; Zoi-rftaj of the States General; Kubric West Indisehe C<mpngnie,'So. 30. Divition y Great, Powerful, High and Mighty Sovereigns. After our distressed circumstances had forced and obliged us to represent the poor condition of this country and to pray for redress therein, we considered it …

With humble reverence we pray your High Mightinesses to be pleased to grant them a favorable audience, and we are and remain your High Mightinesses' faithful subjects. We have, in addition, presumed to send your High Mightinesses a specimen of this country's products, crops and forage most humbly praying that, according to our straitened circumstances, itmay be graciously accepted, which we pray G…

[ From the Original in the Eoj-al Archives at the Hague; Loketkm of the States General Rubric Wat Indieelie Cmipagnie, No. 30; 3d division ; of the Bundle.] [l. S.] To the High and Mighty Lords tlie States General of the United Netherlands. The Delegates of the Commonalty in New Netherland most respectfully represent that they, the Petitioners, being obliged, agreeably to the annexed request,…

minute Remonstrance, the Petitioners presuming that your High Mightinesses cannot well have leisure as a body, being occupied by other public business, to examine the same, are therefore under the necessity of addressing themselves to your High Mightinesses, respectfully praying your High Mightinesses to be pleased to appoint some Members of your Assembly to examine the said Petition and Remonstan…

Whereas in process of time this Province of New Netherland has attained a very poor and most low condition, the cause whereof we presume to be First, Unsuitable government; 2° Scanty privileges and exemptions 3° Onerous imposts of duties, exactions and such like 4° ; ; Long Continued War 5° The loss of the Princess 6" A superabundance of Petty Traders ; ; and pedlars (Schotten en Chmczen) and …

260 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. proper and necessary, respectfully to petition your High Mightinesses for these following points as advantageous for this Province: First. We supplicate and beseech your High Mightinesses to supply New Netherland with sufficient population to enable it to support, sustain and defend itself against Indians and others who may disturb and invade it; for if this sh…

a few years to send some vessels hither in order that people, principally Farmers and Farm Servants, may with their poverty be removed and conveyed gratuitously hither, together with some necessary support until the poor people have something in esse, your High Mightinesses would not only relieve many embarrassed persons, but also may expect, through their intercession with God, success, a blessin…

Also, permission to export, sell, and barter grain, timber and all other wares and merchandise the produce of the Country, every way and every where your High Mightinesses have allies and have granted to the Netherlanders the privilege of trade and resort. V. That your High Mightinesses should please to grant Privileges and Freedoms to the Inhabitants for the encouragement of the Fisheries which m…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IV. 261 from your High Mightinesses, as well along the coast from Terra Nova to Cape Florida, as to the West Indies and to Europe, wherever the Lord our God shall be pleased to permit ; and, III. la order to make manifest your High Mightinesses' earnest support of this Province to those who may be incredulous on that point, we respectfully entreat your High Mightinesses to be pl…

Awaiting, therefore, a happy deliverance, we commend your High Mightinesses' persons and deliberations to the protection of the Almighty, and remain your High Hightinesses' humble and obedient servants. Written in the name, and on the behalf, of the Commonalty of New Netherland, the six and twentieth of July, in the year of our Lord Jesus Christ, One thousand six hundred and nine and forty, in…

The loss of the Princess;' ' It is called a Province because it was invested, by their High Mightinesses, with the Arms of an Earl. ° It will be seen, generally, in the Remonstrance, that New Netherland has arrived at the lowest ebb, so that if provision be not seasonably made in the premises, it will be wholly abandoned. ' Not that there is any doubt of it ; for it is as clear and notorious a…

For, besides the trouble and expense, the Company's servants, who inspect quasi correctly the goods, pay not the least regard, but rather throw them down than lift them up. For, in Amsterdam, they must first be placed in store and inspected before going on board then a poor cargo must ; be taken along, and in New Netherland soldiers are immediately placed on board, and a man is no longer master …

It is very true, that they did not fully attain, in this case, their object and aim, but blood was very near being shed before it could be prevented, and then it was: -- I'll remember and revenge it. As most of the people have lost thereby all they had and expected to get. This war was, also, unjust and " beirun contra jus gentium. Why The Americans gave us no pretext for it. Secondly, It was f…

We, therefore, unable to delay any longer, being reduced to the lowest ebb, have determined' to fly for refuge to your High Mightinesses, our gracious Sovereigns and the Fathers of this Province,^ most humbly craving and beseeching you to look with eyes of compassion on this your Province,^ and to be pleased so to order and redress matters that dangers may be removed, troubles put an end to"" …

There cannot, therefore, be any permanent peace with thera, until an increase shall he remarked in the number of our Dutch people in New Netherland. It has been so long proclaimed, in New Netherland, that more people were coming, that the Indians laugh at it, and say The : Dutch do nothing but lie. * Without, in any way, by words or deeds, if there be good order, directing any thing for the serv…

* Application for orders and redress was made to the Directors from time to time by petitions, remonstrances, letters, &c., but neither redress nor order followed, except for their own purse. ' The country has arrived to that state, that if it be not now assisted it will not need any aid hereafter, because the English will wholly absorb it. ' For the Company neither can nor will give any help, a…

First, we supplicate and beseecli your High Miglitinesses to furnish New Netherland with sufficient population' as to enable it to support, sustain, and defend itself against Indians and others who may disturb and invade it ;^ for in case this should faii,^ not only will the direst ruin follow^ but it will also easily become a prey to our neighbors,^ and those who already dwell there* will be forc…

Besides that, the name alone terrifies the inhabitants ; as they are scorned and despised by our neighbors on account of their evil tricks, even so is the country prejudiced against them. ^ ' Were there a thousand or fifteen hundred inhabitants in New Netherland, or even more, the Indians or the Swedes would never think or dream of daring to ofi'er us any insult. ' If your High Mightinesses do n…

" When, relieved from the Company's tyranny, it would be dependent on this State, and be favored with good government and firm, valid and inviolable privileges whereby every man could with honesty be secure of his life, honor and property in future, which now he is not. '* mostly in arrests, imprisonments, banishments, confiscations, harsh prosecutions, blows, Consisting scoldings, reckoning hal…

IL Consequently were your High Mightinesses pleased for a few years ' to send some vessels thither, in order that people, principally Farmers and Farm servants^ may, with their poverty,' be removed and conveyed hither gratuitously* with some necessaries' until the poor people have something in esse,^ your High Mightinesses would not only relieve many embarrassed persons,^ butalso may expect, t…

' At first, before it be fully under way, sending for two and three years successively, four and five ships each year. * For traders and others who have means, can go and come at their own expense, without any one's help. ' That is to say : the Httle they possess, and which is of small value. * Here arise divers considerations for the poor folk that must be sent over for nothing, may, if they …

For it is only in order to assist the people on their first starting, and should any bad debts accrue by death or otherwise, the fifty per cent advance can always richly meet the capital with the interest. ' Until they are over two, three and four years in a way of paying, as, with the help of God, no man will fail of success in New Netherland, who will take his hand out of his mouth and do his b…

well adapted on account of the convenience of the river, and because it is the centre of that Province. '^To the skippers or other overseers to be thereunto appointed by your High Mightinesses in order that everything be done with regularity, for otherwise those skippers who do not want that, will elude your High Mightinesses' good intention and orders. " That must not be left to them but to the …

V., N" 4, be advanced out of the public funds, and again made good in New Netherland and for that purpose it would be very well to cause all those people ; who become free of the country or descend from those who have become free, to pay double in favor of the finances, and in order to induce those to emigrate who are somewhat slow on account of their straitened circumstances. " Being allured by…

' Which are not to be altered ad proprium commodum et avarorum optnionibus, as has been already been done by the Directors. 'Were we, in New Netherland, on an equality in matter of privilege with our neighbors, and were such made manifest in this country, many would endeavor to repair to New Netherland, and it would not be lacking in population. ^ As we think, who have resided there a considera…

In case of appeal, the course is as follows : If any one in a town that is not the Capital, considers himself aggrieved by any judgment, he may appeal, if the sum exceeds the limit each court takes cognizance of. Otherwise, no appeal lies, and this law was passed with general consent ad utilitatem civium et paganorum, ad diriinendas lites. Then appeal lies to the court of the Colony, which we woul…

Few taxes are imposed, and these only by general consent. In their Capital they have a Governor, a Deputy (that is. Vice) Governor, a Constable, that is Judge, a Secretary and two Provincial Councillors. In the individual towns, they have a Constable, a Clerk and Selectmen. They call all these Magistrates, and, though they depend on the people, treat them with very great respect. Each town choose…

This is the mode of their election or choosing : Each town consults first by itself and sends then its deputies, and all these delegates choose the Governor, and he is so for that year, without any longer assurance. In the year following there is a new election, in form as stated, and HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IV. 267 IL In Exemption from duties,* tenths,' and taxes which at the first beginning are d…

At these Courts appear four Governors and the Deputy of the place, besides the entire Council, if they be not a party in any case ; together with as many Delegates from the towns throughout each Province as they deem necessary ; and no business is transacted except what exclusively interests the country at large. Here is commissioned an Agent for New England to the Parliament ; and this is what we…

difference which the Southern English have with the Dutch, in regard to occupation and settlement of boundaries and time may determine that one way or other. ' It is to be remarked, that our neighbors pay no duties nor any other charges; not even on the wares they purchase from us, which amount to considerable ; so that a great deal of fraud is committed in this way, because several ships go firs…

Though many have had their land the full number of years, yet they have not had the use of it, having been driven off by the war, so that a term of eight or ten years could be beneficially remitted to the great relief of the inhabitants. ' Sheep cannot well be shorn before the wool grows, and if the people are ever anticipated and retrenched in their means of prosperity, there can neither now nor…

268 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. great encouragement to the planters who convert the forest into farms.i and be better also for their laborers who could thus be supplied with all necessaries.^ IV. Also permission to export, sell, and barter grain, timber and all other wares and merchandise, the produce of this country,^ every way and every where your High Mightinesses have allies, and have gra…

Good and profitable trade would also accrue by fetching tobacco from Virginia and elsewhere, were privileges granted for so doing, to the great benefit of the inhabitants and the revenue. ' As there are already divers articles, and with population many could be produced there, several handsome things besides could also be accomplished for the advantage of the inhabitants and the revenue. * Witho…

Our neighbors in New England, on the contrary, trade where they list, without knowing either duty or inspection. '^ The fisheries first and mainly placed New England on its legs and, were our people privileged, would be a source of considerable profit to the country also. ^ That no others should be at liberty to fish there, or participate therein directly or indirectly, except those interested …

for they frankly say -- We have taken the land which was entirely, or for the most part, waste, and now occupy it ; ye say 'tis your's. Let us remain friends like our sovereigns, and refer this question to both your, and our superiors ; what they do or order in the premises, we must admit, and neither of us will gain any thing by talk. ' On this point the English say -- we should live with the D…

Province^ to those who may be incredulous on that point,' we respectfully entreat your High Mightinesses to quarter a company or two of soldiers here, for the defence of those dwelling at a distance,^ and of newly rising plantations until by our improvements' we shall dread neither Indians'" nor other enemies," and be even able to prevent their mischievous acts.'^ All this have we concluded, with…

West India Islands, &c., known to your High Mightinesses better than to us. " For the Company's regulations are so selfish, onerous and intolerable, yea, so devoid of good faith, that it is impossible to act with them. * For if our trade and commerce be more restricted than that of our neighbors, who are at liberty to trade with all the world that England traffics with, it will be very disadvanta…

For the country cannot sink in the beginning into helplessness, and New Netherland will come into condition, if some gentlemen privately, or what in our opinion would be better, if your High Mightinesses were to make some disbursements. ' Well understood, by population, good morals and prosperity. '" The Indians are of little consequence were there one thousand or two thousand men more than the…

Awaiting, therefore, a happy deliverance, we commend your High Mightinesses' persons and deliberations to the protection of the Almighty, and remain your High Mightinesses' humble and obedient servants. Written in the name and on the behalf of the Commonalty of New Netherland, the 26 July, of this year of our Lord Jesus Christ, XVI"= and forty-nine, in New Amsterdam, on the Island Manhattans, i…

Tbansceibed from the authenticated copy of the Remonstrance, containing 83 pages, remaining in the Royal Archives at the Hague, in the Lokttkas of the States GeneralRubric West Indische Compagnie, No. 30; 4th division of the Bundle. ; Note. --The figures in the body of the text, within parenthesis, refer to the commencement of the pages of the volume in the State Library, entitled : Vertoogh van…

OF THE SOUTH BAY AND SOUTH RIVER, 290 OP THE CONVENIENCE AND EXCELLENCE OF THE WATERS, 293 OF THE REASONS AND CAUSE OF THE GREAT DECAY OF NEW NETHERLAND, 295 THE ADMINISTRATION OF DIRECTOR KIEFT, IN PARTICULAR, 304 THE ADMINISTRATION OF DIRECTOR STUYVESANT, IN PARTICULAR, 307 IN WHAT MANNER NEW NETHERLAND SHOULD BE RELIEVED, 317 Vol. I. 35 HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IV, 275 (3) REPRESENTATION OF N…

people, and that very justly, for it was first discovered, and taken possession of, by resembles nd in mauy Netherlanders and at their expense, so that even at the present day, the natives of the country, (who are so old as to remember the event)' testify, •' J that on seeing o ^hcn the indh ' ^ fIrBt eaw tlie sh the Dutch ships on their first coming here, they knew not what to make of them, …

England, on the South West by Virginia ; the coast trends mostly South West and North East, and is washed by the Ocean ; on the North runs the river of Canada, a great way oft' in the interior; the North West side is partly still unknown. (4) The land of itself is fertile, and capable of being entirely cultivated by an abundance of people, were it judiciously divided according to circumstances. T…

o'l'%'rb!'oken''tato into Islands. To the east of the North River lies Long Island, about 40 leagues islands. j^ length, forming a fine wide river which opens into the Ocean at each extremity and affords a very convenient passage inside, along the shores, without much risk from the Sea, on account of the great abundance of safe bays and other The East river is a anchorage grounds; so that vess…

With the exception of the Maize lands, flats and valleys, which have few or no trees and could with little labor be converted into good tillage land, the soil is commonly covered with all sorts of timber standing, however, without order as in other wildernesses. The Seasons; The SeasoHS hsre are about the same as in Netherland, but the summer is also the Weather, Warmer and begins more suddenl…

be they large or small, consisting of various sorts of oak, to wit: ^ . Post-oak, ,. , -- ^ , smooth white bark, rough white bark, grey bark, black bark and still another sort, which, by reason of its softness, is called butter oak ; (5) but it is the poorest of all, and not very valuable. The others, if cultivated as in Netherland, would be as good as any Flemish or Brabant oaks ; various…

The fruits which the country naturally produces consist chiefly of acorns, some or ihe fruits indiof them very sweet, nuts of various sorts, chestnuts, beechnuts, but not many, ^^ymuiberrys, plums, medlars, wild cherries and black currants, gooseberries, abundance of hazel nuts, small apples, a great abundance of strawberries throughout the entire country with considerable other fruits and roots, …

even paler; the vines run far up the trees and are shaded by their leaves, so that the grapes are slow in ripening and a little sour, but were cultivation and knowledge applied here, doubtless as fine Wines would then be made as in any other wine growing countries. As for the rest, all fruits which will grow in Netherland will also thrive in New Netherland, without requiring as much care as must b…

Netherbe better suited to this country than those from Holland ; they require also less trouble, expense and attention, for it is not necessary to look so much after the inferior stock, such as swine, in winter; but if done in some sort, whenever there is deep snow, 'twill be so much the better. Milch cows, also are much less trouble than in Holland, for, most of the time, or when necessity demand…

NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. highly esteemed, beloved and honored, and that it is quite the contrary with regard to those that are black. There are, besides, divers other large animals in the interior, but they are unknown to Christians ; also, wolves, but dangerous only to small cattle; likewise beavers, otters, fishers, catamounts, foxes, racoons, minks, hares, muskrats about as large as…

Here is, also, a bird of a white color with a head like a cat's, and a body like a big owl. We know no name for it in Dutch. In France they call it Gra?id dux,^ and it is held in high estimation. The other land birds consist mostly of Turkeys, the same as in Netherland, but wild, and best and plentiest in winter; also various sorts of Partridges, some smaller, some larger, than in Netherland P…

Various Borts of The rivcr Fish here is almost the same as in Netherland, and consists of Salmon, Sturgeon, Striped-bass, Drum-fish, Shad, Carp, Perch, Pike, Trout, Roach, Bull-heads, Suckers, Sun-fish, Eels, Nine-eyes or lampreys, but much more abundant and larger than in Netherland; there are various other species of fish, of which we know not the names. Various sorts of sea In the Saltwater…

they do little or no harm; there are various sorts of snakes, but not dangerous; ""ey^o'isiif they possibly can, they retreat before people (else they are usually killed) except the rattle-snake, which has a rattle on the tail, wherewith it makes a very loud noise whenever it is angry, or intends to bite; it grows a joint longer every year. This snake is very malignant and not inclined to retreat …

Marie^ (Moccasin plant), Atriylex hortensis vol marina (garden or marine Orach) Chordum turriles (tower Mustard), Calamus aromaticus (Sweet flag), Sassafrax (Sassafras), Roeis virginiarum^ (Sumach), Ranunculus (Crowfoot), Plantago (Plantain), Bursa pasloris (Shepherd's Malva (Mallow), Origanum purse), (Marjoram), Geranium (Crane's bill), Althea (Marsh mallows), Cineroton pseudodaphne (Spice bush…

We have seen proof of this in the Colonie of Renscelaerswyck, but it was sown entirely too late and upon a barren rock where there was little earth; though it came well up, but in consequence of the drought turned all yellow, withered and was neglected. Notwithstanding, it is evident that, were it well managed, it would perfectly succeed. Planting of madder would also undoubtedly thrive well, even…

The mountains and mines, however, remain, and can easily be found again whenever there is any disposition to incur the trouble and expense. Ja'lTnon''^""'' *"" They have already progressed so far in New England that they east iron pots, cannon, shot and similar articles from the mineral they have there ; and we believe that here it only requires a commencement, for we have, and there are fou…

Here are also mountain crystal, glass like that in Muscovy, great abundance of green Of the Btonea and Serpentine, grey hearth-stone, slate, brown grindstone, flint, pebbles, paving their purposes. , r r , , r , r stones, large quantities of every sort ot quarry stone suitable lor the manufactory of millstones and for the construction of all sorts of buildings. Here also are plume-alum and di…

They resemble Brazilians in color, or are as tawny as those people who sometimes ramble through Netherland and are called Gipsies. Generally, the men have very little ^J;;,^"^'!,^"-^'^ or no beard, some even pluck it out; they use very few words, which they previously well consider. Naturally they are quite modest, without guile and inexperienced, but in their way haughty enough, ready and quick w…

Some have a bearskin of which they make doublets; others again, coats of the skins of racoons, wild cats, wolves, dogs, fishers, squirrels, beavers and the like; and they even have made themselves some of turkey's feathers; now they make use for the most part of duffels cloth which they obtain in trade from the Christians ; they make their stockings and shoes of deerskins or elk hides, some even h…

282 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. color, which hangs around the neck in braids, whereof they are very vain. They frequently smear their skin and hair with all sorts of grease. Almost all of them Wis th?m8dve8''of can swim ; they themselves construct the boats they use, which are of two sorts: ""' ''"'' oTtree".'' souie, of entire trees excavated with fire, axes and adzes ; the Christians call…

The men are generally lazy and will not work until they become old and of no consideration then they make spoons and wooden bowls, ; traps, nets, and various other such trifles; in other respects, they do nothing but Who do the work fish, hunt and go ° to war. The women must perform the remainder of the labor, among the Indians, and how. such as planting corn, cutting and . ,,,-,• i t i haul…

They do not remain long in one place, but remove several times a year and repair, according to the season, to wherever food appears to them, beforehand, best and easiest to be obtained. JreV'ea'ch °iribe"of They arc divided into various tribes and languages. Each tribe usually dwells '"'""" is one among them who is chief; but he does not possess together, and there indinns know of God, but ha…

with littleThey believe, also, in an Immortality of the soul; have^ ceremony. likewise, some knowledge of the Sun, Moon and Stars, many of which they even know how to name they are passable judges of the weather. There is scarcely ; Neither law nor auv law or iusticc among them, except sometimes in war matters, and then very '^ losliee among the "^ Indians. little. The next of kin is the av…

They know, also, how to preserve fish and meat for the winter in order then to cook them with Indian meal. They make their bread, but of very indifferent quality, of maize, which they also cook whole, or broken in wooden mortars. The women likewise perform this labor and make a pap or porridge, called by some, Sapsis, by others, Duundare,^ which is their daily food ; theymix this, also, thoroughl…

After their (12) High Mightinesses, the Lords States General, were pleased, in the year XVP and twenty-two, to include this Province within the Charter of the West India Company, the latter considered it necessary to take complete possession of this naturally beautiful and noble Province ; this, indeed, did follow in course of time, but according as circumstances permitted, as in all beginnings; f…

In these four forts there has always been some garrison from the beginning to the present time, though just now they are all T.^'^v '"'"ooV* and '" ^ '^^^y P°°'' condition, both as regards themselves and the garrison. useless. These forts, as well north and south, were located not only to close and command the said rivers, but as far as property by occupation extended, to possess as well all th…

o to the Eastward; for notwithstanding sufficient The Enffii^h pav no rre>ril lo fori ""?"• Good fesDected ^ bv the English e residing ••.rr-iiTT possession was already taken by the erection and garrisoning ot tort Good Hope, and no neglect to warn them occasionally has occurred, in order to make known our right, and to protest against them for usurpation, force and violence, yet have th…

Again, the English of New Haven have a Trading theXtih'rTvIr?'"^ post situatc to the East or South east of Magdalen island, at no greater distance than six leagues from the North river; for that island lies on the East side of the North river, 23J leagues above Fort Amsterdam ;2 and the Trading post is established with no other design than to attract or wholly to destroy the entire trade of th…

' Soo ons anders de waerlieyt bereclit is. These words are omitted in the printed Vertoogh. 'Magdalen island is opposite the town of Bed Hook, Dutchess county. The trading post was on the the present town of Springfield, Mass. site of = The trade on the Rhine and other European rivers, was subject to toll, which system the agents of the Patroon of Renselaerwyck attempted to establish also o…

The English themselves are well aware of this, but so long as they can manage it, and things get along to their liking, they will not admit the fact; for those of the Fresh river desired to enter Those of the Fresh river have offered a , 1 I I 1 mto an arrangement, and to pay a yearly acknowledgment, or to purchase the ycarij acknowiedgfee. This, indeed, is proof positive, that the right is w…

In short, 'tis thus far with the English, that they are very willing to recognize the Netherlanders, and make use of them as a cloak in time of need, but again when this is past, they regard them not and make fools of them. This proceeds entirely from having neglected to people the country, or to speak plainer and more correctly, from a desire, through motives of selfishness, to scrape all the fat…

But, now, since we have entered on the subject of Long Island, we shall (14) or Long island in ^"^""''"' treat of it somewhat more at length, because the English greatly hanker after it. The Ocean on the south, and the East river on the north side form this Island, which, as we have already remarked, is a crown of New Netherland, on account of its convenient position, its suitable harbors, and an…

Dependent from it was an old seal that could not be deciphered. His commission included the entire island, with five leagues around, both mainland and islands. He had also a power of attorney from Maria, Dowager of Stearling, and this was all nevertheless, the man was very consequential, and said, on his first arrival, that he came here to see Governor Stuyvesant's commission, and, if it was …

The English, with Sometime after the completion on the Fresh River of Fort Good Hope, which [he"Fr'e3h"'River! was bcgun lu the year 1623, an English schooner arrived there, but Jacob van contmry to protest. ^-,^^^.1^^.^ ^^^ Company's Commissary, protested against it by order of the Director Wouter van Twiller yet notwithstanding this protest, they came there about ; a year or two afterwards w…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IV. 287 horses.' The same thing occurred repeatedly afterwards, and they also took up the hogs and cows belonging to the Fort, and even frequently sold some of them, ^^« English seii our for damages as they say. Protests have been made against all these acts and each of them in particular, but they were mocked at; sundry very severe letters were written to their Governors in La…

Anno 1614, our traders O" v<^°p^e ant took possession of not only trafficked at the Fresh river, but had also ascended it before any English LoughuSerawi °'"" people had ever dreamed of coming there; the latter arrived there for the first time in the year 1636, after our Fort Good Hope had been a long time in existence, and almost all the land on both sides of the river had been bought by our pe…

affirmative opinion can be entertained ; this much has come to pass -- they have been informed of it in various letters, which never produced any result ; but they have in addition, contra jus gentium 'perfiis et ncfas, invaded the whole, because, as they say, the land lay unoccupied and waste, which was none of their business, and, besides, was not true ; for on the river a fort had been already …

Their High Mightinesses' arms were set up at Kievits Everything possible hooU, which is at the mouth of the river, so that everything possible was done introducing people, except that the country was not wholly occupied, and the English would have it so ; forsooth, as if these people, who now by means of their greater numbers do as they please, were at liberty to dictate the law to our nation w…

cows and horses, are computed at thirty thousand ; their goats and hogs cannot be stated ; it is impossible to ascertain precisely both the one and the other, for there are divers places which cannot well be put down as villages, and yet are New Haven a mem- beginnings of them. Among the whole of these, the Rodenbergh or New Haven land, which consists jg the rprincipal; it has a Governor, contai…

Director Kieft hath caused divers protests, both in Latin and other languages, to be served on these people, commanding them by virtue of his commissions, in the name of the Lords States General, his Serene Highness of Orange, and the Honorable Directors of the Incorporated West India Company, to desist from their proceedings and usurpations, and in case of refusal, warning them thereby that …

farthest that they have ever been willing to come is, to declare that the matter could never be arranged in this country, and that they were content and very desirous that their High Mightinesses should arrange it with their Sovereigns, and as this is very necessary, inasmuch as the English already occupy and have The Eogiish have ^"^ seized nearly the half of New Netherland, which hereafter can …

Netherof the North river unto Virginia, was his, by grant from King James of England, but he said he did not wish to create any difficulty with the Dutch, though he was very much piqued at John Prins, the Swedish Governor at the South on account of some affronts he had received from him, which are too river, long to relate; he added, that he, at a proper opportunity, should meet that gentleman, …

into consideration as being favorably situated, not only as regards the convenience of the country, but also as relates to the trade with the Indians on the South river,' to secure which the English ° and Swedes are making O great O efforts,' as we The English and _ Swedes make great shall presently show. Were the boundaries here settled, they would properly, and without any further trouble, d…

length and breadth in Johannes De Laet's Nieuwe Werelt. In the year 1623, at the same time that forts were erected on the North and Fresh rivers. Fort Nassou was erected upon this river, which, in common conversation, is called the South river; but it was the first of the four, and for the same purpose and object as the others, as (19) hereinbefore related. The fort stands on the East shore fi…

Fourteen streams flow into this river, the smallest of them navigable for two or three leagues, and every where, on both sides, are pretty good flats in great abundance.Two leagues from Cape Cornelius, on the West side of the entrance, lies a certain kill which might well be called an ordinary river, or stream, for it is wide, navigable far up, and has a fine roadstead for ships of all dimens…

ar'riyaiof th" Eng! arms Were also set up at this place in copper; but as they were thrown down by liBh or Swede.. ^^^^ insolcnt Indians, the Commissary there resented it very strongly and demanded the head of the offender. The Indians, knowing nothing better, brought a head, saying it was that of the transgressor, and herewith it was thought the affair was arranged but sometime afterwards, w…

Elsenburch.i erected at this place, and took great liberties with every one, even with the Company's yachts, or such as would go up the South river for before ; this fort must they all strike, none excepted, and two men are here sent on board in order to ascertain whence the yatchs or ships come. It is nothing less than searching ; it What right these people have The swede, hwe will probably ter…

There are, moreover, several beautiful and pleasant islands and other places, heretofore also in the occupation of the Netherlanders and still bearing the names they gave, and various other circumstances, which afford sufEcient and conclusive evidence that the river belongs to the Netherlanders and not to the Swedes. Their beginnings can of themselves convict them ; for one Minnewits, who had prev…

They offered divers reasons and ' The name of this fort is still preserved in that of Elsinborough, a township in Salem county, New Jersey. ' The creek has in consequence obtained the name of Christina creek. It is in the State of Delaware. 'Or the key of Kalmar. Calmar is an ancient town in Sweden, latitude 56° 40', longitude 16° 26'; its fortress was formerly considered the key of the kingdom…

For *""' insolence, have thrown them down, and so 'tis allowed to remain; and 'tis considered, especially by the Governor, a brilliant achievement. 'Tis true that several protests were made both against this and other matters that occurred, but they produced as little effect as the flight of a crow (21) overhead, and it is to be feared that if this Governor had an adequate force, there would …

It is The English again Currently hanker atler the •' reported ' here every day, J and ' we are informed, that the English o will sonth river. soon repair thither with several families. 'Tis to be borne in mind, that if these people come to settle there, they will so rapidly spread themselves over every Dutch nor Swedes will have much to say there; at place, that shortly neither least,…

build a village and trading house there and, in truth, if they begin, there is no ; one here on the part of the Company who can prevent them, or apparently offer them much opposition. And not longer ago than last year, divers freemen, among whom were even some of ourselves, and all of whom without exception had or The Netheriandera good employers could have n r J in Fatherland, requested libe…

and that it was as we represented, whereof in fact he was fully aware. Reason was on our side, but the instructions he had from his superiors were such that he could not justify it before them. Now we are blind in these matters, but one of (22) two things must be true either it must be the fault of the Director The Director wames ; the Company tor tho or of the Company, or of both. Whichsoever b…

It is not to be |;^''iong*''iiT8uE expected that 'twill fare any better, but much worse whilst it is under their J^^""'"* company, control, such is their greediness and misgovernment ; but the right time to treat of this matter is not yet arrived. OF THE CONVENIENCE AND EXCELLENCE OF THE WATERS. Having treated of the situation of the land and its boundaries, and having spoken, consequently, of t…

It is immediately south of another, which is also the principal and best as regards trade and population, and is called Rio Montanjes, on account of some mountains, or Mauritius' river, commonly the North river, because its course is mainly, and for a great distance, towards the north. The third is the East river, so named because it stretches East from the Manathans. This is The East river, > est…

In addition to all these, there are fountains and springs, innumerable, every where throughout the country, even at places where they would not be expected, as on cliffs and rocks, from which they burst forth A great many foun- like watcr spouts ; and some are of such a nature that they are worthy attention, New ^Netherland, not onlv bccausc thev are all, except r those in the thickets, very …

'""*^ '" uad"!" excels, this province not only lies very convenient and suitable for it, but were there only population, would be found to have exported more commodities by New Netherland aud of itself to Other countries than it need to import from elsewhere. These bi'e''h''e'reYner''io"''ihe being Considered, 'twill be very little labor for the intelligent to estimate and to eran nation, ^^^p^…

We are also beholden, in the highest degree, to the Indians, who not only surrendered this rich and fertile country, and for a trifle made it over to us, but did, over and above, also enrich us with their valuable and mutual trade, so that there is none in New Netherland, or trading to that country, but is under obligation therby. Great is our shame now, and fortunate should we be did we duly…

the population of this Country ought to be disregarded, and it ought to be borne eoLideredT™"" in mind that beginnings are difficult, and that sowing would be irksome were men not comforted by reaping. We trust and are confident that your High Mightinesses' very great experience will accomplish this better than we are able to suggest ; but it may probably appear strange to your High Mightinesses a…

reach, not to allow the truth to yield to falsehoods, previously trumped up and invented ; and not to admit any evidence against it, except of such impartial persons as have not either directly or indirectly been injuriously affected by, nor had a hand in, the ruin of New Netherland, nor are otherwise under obligation to it.And with this observation, we proceed to the reasons and sole cause of the…

'acta Company, and in this Country. We shall first briefly proceed to point out some of tbe Director. Q^ders and mistakes of Fatherland, and afterwards pass to the others, and see how they have here grown up and waxed strong. Sd ^th^lT"^ ""lana I" ^'^^ infancy of this country, the Directors adopted wrong plans and in our '"°"^- opinion looked more to their own profit than to the country's welfar…

Had the Hon'''^ West India Company attended in the beginning to population, instead of incurring great expense for things unnecessary, which might be attended to at more favorable times and then could also be better done, the New Netherland account would not be so large as it is now ; first, by the construction of the ship Nieuw Neerlant, at an excessive expense ; of three costly mills, by ma…

Had the first Exemptions been honestly carried out, according to their tenor and not with particular views, the friends of New Netherland would certainly have made greater exertions to bring out settlers, and to take up land. The other clauses which were introduced, have always discouraged individuals and kept them down, so that those of them who had any skill, on becoming aware of the facts,…

Nothing else could well be done, for the garrisons are not sent out complete agreeably to The rauu of New the Exemption, so that the fault of New Netherland's low condition lies as much ^onSrJ.'mlits iiso '"'"' ""''^°"P'"'yat the door of Fatherland, as of this place; yea, the seed of the war was, according to Director Kieft, first sown in Fatherland, for he said that he had express order to exact…

The duty is high; of inspection and seizures there is no lack, and thus lawful trade is turned aside, except some little which is carried on on]y pro formd, in order to push smuggling under this cloak. Meanwhile the Christians are treated almost like Indians in chrisUans are ttoated almost like lathe purchase of necessaries which they cannot do without; this causes great '^'""• complaint, distress…

But the people have, moreover, been driven away by harsh and unwarrantable proceedings; their Honors, however, authorized this, for they instructed Director Kieft to pick out faults The Directors order that a partial shoBid where none existed, and to consider a partial, ^ as a complete, r ' error and so forth. ' It ""^ c.nsidcred a» a eoraplele error, and has also been seen how the letters of …

NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. consequently not eye witnesses, and as it was long ago and has partially escaped recollection, and did not seem to us so bad as afterwards when land was granted free, and the freemen began to increase, we shall therefore pass over the beginning, and let Mr. Lubbert van Dioglagen, Vice-Governor of New Netherland, describe the administration of Director Wouter va…

" The Board of Managers," say The Director, play they, the abaolute maaler. j " are, indeed, masters in Fatherland, • • but we are masters in this land. As they decide, so 'twill go; there is no appeal." And it has not been difficult for them hitherto to put this in practice ; for the people were few, and the majority of these (28) very simple and uninformed; they, moreover, had business with…

These Directors, then, having the power in their own hands, could do, and did whatever they chose, according to their good will and pleasure, and whatever was, must be right, because it was agreeable to them. 'Tis well known that those who arrogate to themselves, and exercise power, for the purpose of issuing suchcommands as they please, frequently command and requiremore than they really oug…

Casting our eye, then, over Director Kieft's administration, we come first to "ci^asS'' pr'lfp"'*" the Church, and we shall speak, after that, of the public property, both But as this man is now dead, and some of his proceedings ecclesiastical and civil. and acts are freely discussed by Jochem Pieterss Cuyter and Cornells Moiyn, we shall dispose of this point as curtly as we possibly can. o…

The Director wished, and insisted that jE^*,„h';^"h'i'^,J^,t it should be located in truly, the location is small, the fort lies on a point, which would be of more importance in case of population ; the Church, which ought to be owned by the people who defrayed the expense of its construction, intercepts and turns aside the Southeast wind from the gristmill which stands in that vicinity ; and this…

It happened, about this time, that Everardus Bogardus, the clergyman, gave in marriage a daughter, by his first wife. The Director thought this a good time for his purpose, and set to work after the fourth or fifth drink ; and he himself setting a liberal example, let the wedding guests sign whatever they were disposed to give towards the Church. o Each, then, with a light o head, subscribed away…

There is no church jj- ^ow ouF time to spcak of the church property, and to do the truth no jg violence, we are not aware that there ever has been any, or that the church hath any revenue, except what is given to it. Neither the Company nor the Director ever took the least pains or trouble to obtain or provide any. The plate im» been passeil around lur The plate has been a longa time passed a…

They have long promised to pay interest, but notwithstanding all that is done in the matter, neither principal nor interest can be obtained from them. There is, occasionally, a flying report of an hospital and of asylums for orphans and for old men, &c., but as yet not a sign of an attempt, order or regulation has been made about them. From all these, then, it is sufficiently apparent, that s…

There was not indeed at first, in Director Kieft's administration, so favorable an opportunity as since, because the duties on the peltries were collected in Fatherland, and the freemen had not yet granted any excise, but after the public The duties on It"" calamity -- we mean, the rash war -- was brought on us, the duties on the peltries Neiheriand. began to collectcd in this country, and an e…

among the soldiers as a prize, and so it has continued ; but it has produced great strife and discontent; for from that time forward the Director endeavored to The Director begins divide the country and to establish a faction those who were on his side could ; try, and^s very j'eat- not do amiss, howevcr badly they behaved; those who were opposed to him areiisited. were always wrong, however …

advocate, were themselves under the necessity of remonstrating, but instead of J^'^^.f'^^P,''^ p"^""™ the relief they expected, they received a somewhat sharp reprimand from the Director, and subsequently obtained a written answer which, as was his custom, he had couched in so lengthy and so diffuse a style, that poor humble people, such as are here, must inevitably commit mistakes regarding it. A…

was promised and enacted, in all placards, that all the money was to be employed lZ%t """monry for commendable and necessary public works, let us now examine for a moment for'" the" %TO°.'ie'a what laudable public works there are in this country, and what fruits all the donations and contributions have hitherto borne. But in order not to commit any error in this matter, we must not be understood t…

If we are correctly informed, and have fully investigated and examined all these, we cannot ascertain or find that any thing -- we say any thing -- big or little, worth mentioning, was done, built or constructed, during Director Kieft's administration, in which the people were ^,e"i',«ipie''i'n"Kieiv8 concerned or had any interest, except the Church, of which we have already """' spoken. Yea,…

There are yet sundry other Negroes in this country, some of whom have been manumitted on account of their long service ; but their children continue slaves, contrary to all public law, that any one born of a free Christian mother should, notwithstanding, be a slave, and obliged so to remain. It is impossible for us to relate every thing that has occurred. Whoever did not assent and applaud wa…

Stuvvcsant has been, almost the whole of the time from his "^ first coming profitably busy in , c }h?^ C'mpanj'a afto our leaving, busy building, laying masonry, constructing, breaking up, renttmg and so forth ; but generally, on the Company's account and little to their expended than they are worth however advantage, for on some things more is ; he at first put the church in order, which h…

As a consequence, great discontent arose in a short time every where, not only among the burghers, who had very little to say, but also even among the Company's oflScers, so that divers protests passed between them on account of the expense and waste consequent on unnecessary councillors, officers, servants and so forth, entirely unknown to the Majores, and by reason of the appropriation and …

People have been here now so long, and would beat every bush ; yet not a thing No reeuiation has had been done concerning weights and measures or the like, previous to the dueed '"'respecTn'J 23^ July, of the year 1649, at which time the people were notified that an order " sures; q^ the subject would be issued the ensuing August, which the Fiscal would then (33) enforce -- this was as much as …

And when any thing was said to the Director on these and similar subjects, more than pleased him, a great deal of ill and spiteful Stuyvesant berates language was received ; even those who were officially brought to speak, with Ihe principal mcu among the people him of such things, if he were not in good humor, were berated as rascals, bear skinners, &c. The Fort under which people ^ ^ will ta…

He will, doubtless, contrive by various circumstances to throw the blame on the Commonalty, who are innocent, although the Director desired to have the money from them, and pretended to have an order to that effect from their High Mightinesses; for had he applied to that object one-fourth of the money which was collected in his time from the The monej coiiec- Commonalty, it would, certainly, not h…

Sufficient has been said relative to what Director Kieft hath done in civil and ecclesiastical matters; vphether buildings, resources or revenues. It remains for us to visit the Council chamber and bring out some specimens, according to our promise. Herein we shall also study conciseness. The Council consisted, then, of Director Kieft and Monsieur La Montangie the Director had two votes and Mr…

In other respects, they were of no consideration, and little regarded when they proposed anything in opposition to the views of the Director, who imagined himself, or would fain persuade others, The Direotora give that he was Sovereign and that it was absolutely in his power to do, or to "" that the safety of the People was the "'' so'verei'gna. permit, everything; and he heeded little supre…

was not believed, for there are some who heard La Montangie say, that had not The Secretary the Secretary brought a false report, the affair would have never happened. brings false reports. ^^^^.^ ^^^ ^^^^ ^^^^ othcrs who know it, and almost every one believes it, to be so, and indeed it seems very likely. No confidence was placed in Fiscal Van der Hooykens in consequence of his drinking, in w…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IV. 305 had the order of the Majores, and by his own imprudent expeditions, which manifested themselves ciiiefly in the mysterious toast ; but there are friends whom tiiis closely concerns and who have already undertaken it. We shall leave of"'« sovereignty. the matter to them, and give a few specimens of his aspirations after sovereignty, omitting several others for the sake o…

people, and the destruction of many cattle, of almost all their houses, and whatever they had ; they returned a while after that, and having consumed more than they knew how to obtain, they came to the Manathans, whither all the refugees at that time fled, and Master Douthy was minister there. After the fiame Francis Douthy was minister at the of war had died away, and peace had been concluded, i…

The Director answered, there was no appeal from his decision which must be final, and in consequence of his remark, sentenced the Minister to be imprisoned for the space of 24 hours, and then pay 25 guilders. We have always considered this act tyrannical, and regarded it as an instance of sovereignty. Arnoldus van Hardenbergh's case resembles this very much in its result, for after Seger Theunisse…

306 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. *'''^ game was repeated it was a high crime ; the Fiscal made great pretence and ; ^e»'i8™anT''a /''a fine of 25 guiidtre. a judgment was pronounced, the contents whereof were as follows: "Having -- Copy of ihe ten- «' seen the written demand of Fiscal Van der Hoeikens of and against Arnoldus tence. ° " van Hardenburch, and that in relation to the appeal f…

" authority of the magistracy of this country, condemn the aforesaid Arnoldus " van Hardenberch in the fine of 25 guilders, payable immediately, or to be " imprisoned until the fine be paid, as an example to others." If the lion be now known by his paw, it can be seen that these people make nothing of the name of your High Mightinesses, His Highness of Orange, the honor of the magistracy, and…

The patents were next called in, on pretence that something had been forgotten in them ; but it was not so, only 'twas imagined that something had been surrendered in the grant, and therefore a clause was added to the patents, which were signed anew ; this conflicts directly with the patent, so that without distorting its tenor in the least, there is now a There Is a contra- Contradiction in o…

We sincerely wish we were already through this administration, for it hath been fSonbear8*'h'Md heavy upon us, and we are conscious of our feeble power; we will, nevertheless, make a beginning, and as we have already treated of the public property, ecclesiastical and civil, we shall examine into the administration of justice and the rendering of judgment between man and man, and demonstrate, as wi…

In addition to the fact that he hath himself appointed and obliged so many Councillors, some of whom also are well disposed, so that he can constrain the others by plurality of votes, he likewise frequently submits his opinion in writing, and that so fully and so amply that it takes up some side, and then ||i';,^J't^^^°J,y'"^'J,'X! his word is: "Gentlemen, this is my opinion; if any one have augh…

But, we all say and affirm, that such has, from the commencement, been and still continues daily to be, the common practice, and that this is the conduct and bearing in the Council of the Director who is president and head thereof. Let us now, also, cursorily speak of each of the other Councillors. Lubbert van Dinklagen, the Vice- ly'S-esS^.*''''*'' Governor, hath for a long time exhibited great d…

dissembling; but it is sufficiently notorious, and has been heard from himself, was not pleased with, and disapproved of that administration. Brian that he Muyson [Nuton], lieutenant of the soldiers, comes next. This man dreads the Director, and honors him as his benefactor; besides being very ignorant and n«mSCnd''o'u? inexperienced in the law, he is totally unacquainted with our Dutch langua…

Every one can easily imagine the amount of knowledge these men, who have spent all their lives at sea and have been brought up to ship business, possess of matters of law and of husbandmen's disputes; besides which, the Director keeps them so dependent that they dare not speak, as will appear from this circumstance at Curasao, before the Director ever saw New -1 Netherland. As they were discou…

How this is done, is too deep The Director bear- for US ; for though the Dircctor is aware of these things, he nevertheless observes Paulus ^ Lraacrjae gjiencc whcu Paulus Lcuaertse begins to get excited, which he would not suffer from any other person and this gives rise to divers unfavorable surmises. To ; complete the bench of justice, there still remain the Secretary and the Fiscal Hend…

him to do so for he is a man wholly intolerable alike in words and deeds. ; What shall we say of one whose head is a trouble to him and whose screw is TheFisoaMs none joogg, especially when it is surrounded by a little sap in the wood, which is no rare occurrence, as he is master at home. Cornells Van Thienhoven, the Secretary, comes next. A great deal might be said of this man ; more even …

He is a great adept at dissimulation, and even when laughing, intends to bite, and professes the warmest friendship where he hates the deepest. To every one who has business with him -- and there is scarcely one but has -- he gives a favorable reply, promises assistance and assists scarcely any body, or leads them continually off on some course or the other, except the Minister's friends. In his w…

Director Stuyvesant was, at first and also afterwards, well informed of this who, nevertheless, retained him in office, ; and gave him so much latitude that everything follows his behest more than if he were President; yea, who even says, that he is well content to employ him ; but that stone is still rolling. We are convinced, and do believe, that he misleads the General in many respects, and c…

And in order to gloze over that matter altogether, Nine men were chosen as of the entire Commonalty, and it was in the fnTrepreseni'"'ihe representatives *"""* omaionai.v. commissions and instruction declared, that what these men did, should be the act of the whole people ; as it, indeed, was when it accorded with the Director's opinion and views, for they represent the entire people. But when i…

The proceedings against hi|^ircensurabi'e.° the Eight men, particularly against Jochura Pieters Cuytter and Cornelis Molyn occurred also in the beginning, and the Director manifested so much partiality therein, that he afforded many an opportunity of judging of his character and its nature, but little to his advantage ; for every one clearly saw and remarked that Director Kieft had more favor …

ibe''fermer's. ''"''^ hereafter endeavor to knock me over also, but I shall now manage it so that they will have their bellies full in all time to come." And how it was managed the result of the suit can testify, for they must pay fines and were cruelly banished, and in order that nothing should be wanting, when Cornelis Molyn pleaded for '''-^il ' grace until intelligence of the result of hi…

what is remarkable, it is so confirmed by similar cases as not to admit of a doubt for it once came to pass in the Minister's house, after their departure, when the Consistory had met there and was risen, that one Arnoldus van Herdenberch related the proceedings relative to Seger Theunisse, and how he had appealed as curator, from the judgment, whereupon the Director, who had sat there as an s…

Jochem Pietersse Cuyter and Cornelis Molyn went to Fatherland to prosecute their appeal, and letters were received here from them, and it was rumored that they were maintained or would be successful, the Director, speaking of Jochim Pieterss Cuyter and Cornelis Molyn, openly declared at various times and on stuyvesant con- many occaslous, both in presence of Inhabitants and strangers, that " Ev…

Finally, it came to pass that he may depart on ^J,lT"hJ^' the condition of promising under his hand that, wherever he should go, he would not u,af'ho ahww'not mention, nor complain of the manner he was treated here in New Netherland by \rLiKi7 Director Kieft or Stuyvesant. This the man himself declares. Mr. Dinklagen and Commander Looper, who were then members of the Council, also vouch for its tr…

And with this view, one Gerrit Vastrick, a trader, was authorized to bring with him a case of guns, as is ascertained, in order, as it atuyvespnt imports "<=''»= °'g""'- was reported, to supply the Indians with a sparing hand. (42) The transaction with this case was so public, that not a man at the Manhatans but knew of it, and people had plenty to do, to quiet the public every one made his own …

And greater credit was attached to this, as they proceeded to the right place and the returns they realized, though dumb, speak. This created inexpressible dissatisfaction among the common people, and even among the other officers, and had not the people been both persuaded and restrained, something serious might have been the consequence. It is also added: -- " The Director is in, and carries on,…

This have we witnessed the case, then away with such people to the gallows. jI^r'^'TeyKs in the case of Jacob Ryntgens and Jacob van Schermerhoren, who were capitally '*''''*"" me'rhooni'.'' prosecuted for this offence, and a great deal of difficulty was experienced before they could be got off, and even then they were banished as felons and their property was confiscated. By the repeated int…

For the man, being an honest Burgher here, of good repute, though •^ moderate means, was thrust into prison, and charges raked up against him from every hole and corner, on the information of one of the Company's servants, who, according to the statement of the General and Council, had richly merited the gallows three times, and for whom even a new one had been erected, which, however, he had …

These things cause great dissatisfaction, and excite thoughts of abandoning the country. Proceedings against Pieter Van der Linden fared no better, but he was not imprisoned, "^ though ° Pieter van der Lin- '^^°- many were, the most of whom are frightened, and would speak if they dare. Now as the Company itself carries on the forbidden trade, the people think that it is no sin for them too t…

Were the noise thereof confined exclusively to the country, it were well; but he has spread it himself, throughout the neighboring English, both north and south, even to the West Indies and Caribbee Islands; everywhere there is such evil report, that not a ship dare venture here from those parts. Worthy and reliable people who come thence here by way of Boston, and others trading hence to Boston, …

All permanent inhabitants, whether merchant, burgher, farmer, planter, working man or servant, sufTer great damage in consequence; for were there plenty of shipping here, piemj- of shipping °"' "^"" everything would be cheaper, and necessaries more easily obtained than now; whether goods or articles which the people themselves get through God's blessing, out of the earth, or otherwise raise, they…

" the debts were incurred in and by the war, and the people are ISuse "contracted In notwithstanding ' ' the war; and will unable to pay either principal or interest. Again, he will not pay the just debts °J^„f'°" ^"^ J"" which Director Kieft hath left behind on the Company's account, whether consisting of earned monthly wages, delivered grain, or any other lawfully proved liabilities; and when …

314 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. never inquired whether New Netherland sank or swam ; for when application was made to them in such emergency for aid and assistance, which they were bound by honor and by promise according to the Exemptions to furnish, unasked, tiie case at their own expense. they never attempted to do anything in We let They never caused any good order or regulation to be…

Yet they Trade is heariiy taieil and Ihis must know Well how to increasc the public burdens, » for in the instances in the be^paid byihepeo- Excmptlons, in which they promise not to exceed 5 per cent, they now exact 16. 'Tis an old saying, he scrapes a good deal who scrapes half, but it does not reach that far. The excuses and evasions they have recourse to, as regards merchandise, smugglin…

their "High MiphT "^"st petition their masters, the Company, or your High Mightinesses, which we nesses or the Com- ^j^^ ^^^^ Considered, in truth and in deed to be necessary. It is now more than a year since the select men concluded and considered it proper to send a deputation to your High Mightinesses. The Director approved it, and not only assented to The resolution as to it, but stronglv U…

After the election, then, and before the new incumbents were sworn, it was verbally, or orally resolved and concluded, that -- HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : IV. 315 the deputation should be proceeded with, whatever the consequences. Some time elapsed before the Nine men were sworn in anew, on account of some enlargement of the commission, which was at last issued, recorded and signed ; but we have never…

requested permission to speak to the Commonalty on the subject; but their proposition was not well received and a very long postil was annexed to their written petition r to the effect that they must act conjointly J . with, and follow the Tba B.ioct m™ niusl not coufcr order of, the Director with many other things which scarcely accorded with our "i"" ">« peopi«- design, and were, in our opi…

Besides, we had never promised nor agreed to do so, and were bound by oath to seek the prosperity of the country, as we have always been disposed to do, according to the best of our knowledge. (46) It is stated in the postil above mentioned, if we read it aright, that we p»stiiof the Direoshall inquire how far the people would cooperate with us in this business, and how the expense should be def…

And although these persons had always been his good and cherished friends, and he had even a short time before, esteemed them the honestest, most capable, most intelligent and most virtuous of the country,! ygj ^s soon as they did not follow his wishes, they were this and that, some of them rascals, liars, rebels, usurers; in a word, hanging was almost too good for them. Heretofore, the expediting…

816 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. were discovered, and when it was perceived that this labor would be vain, an attempt was made to create a diversion by instituting personal actions against some who were considered the bell-wethers. ^ Accusations were made against them and they were prosecuted by the Fiscal and the other subordinate officers, who made them out to be about the biggest villai…

One day when Van der Donck was abroad, the General arrested. seized this rough draft with his own hand, placed Van der Donck the day following under arrest, convened the Supreme Council, accused him of having committed Crimen lesae Majestatis, and took the matter so seriously that scarcely anything was to be done -- either the delegation must be a joint one, and then (17) it remained still to…

petition was defiignated a libel, unworthy of any answer, the writer of which would be punished as an example to others. In fine, we could not, in any way, Whatever was pro- manage to make it right. Vander Donck was forbad the Council and our Sessions mrelie.™ Cihe also, and we were notified officially of the circumstance ; yet, he could not get and in order to cut off the proper means of proof,…

Those who were officially obliged to take a part in public affairs and did so, were fortunate if they acted in accordance with the General's will and pleasure; if they did not, they were Those who speak prosecuted and sued, incarcerated, guarded by soldiers, so that no person might treated very badly, gpeak to them, angrily abused as all sorts of dangerous monsters, threatened to be taught t…

Your High Mightinesses, and such other friends as happen to see it, can easily infer, from the preceding Relation, what trouble and labor we have had on our shoulders, with which we would have most willingly dispensed, had it not been for the love of the country and of the truth, which, as far as we know, hath long lain in the grave. The trouble and difficulty, Thetmihreearding though wanting no a…

In our opinion this country will never flourish under the Hon"* Company's government on the contrary 'twill waste and decay in itself, unless the ; Company be, in consequence, reformed. It would, therefore, be better and more advantageous for the country and themselves were they rid of it and the remnant of their property transported hence. To speak specifically: care ought to be taken of the pu…

There ought to be, likewise, Asylums for aged men, for orphans, and similar institutions. The clergyman who now returns home, could give fuller information on the subject. The country must also be provided with moral, honorable and intelligent rules who are not very indigent nor yet very covetous. A covetous ruler makes poor subjects, and the mode in which the country is now governed, is a great a…

population, good (49) Privileges and Exemptions, which could encourage the inhabitants; attract navigation and profitable trade, and with the pleasantness, convenience, salubrity and productiveness of the country, allure everyone hither. If a Boundary were added in the protection, to what has been already done, then with God's help everything would, in human probability, go well, and New Nethe…

In conclusion, we commit your High Mightinesses' persons, deliberations and measures with your people both at home and abroad, together with all New Netherland, to the merciful guidance and protection friends of of the Most High, whom we supplicate to grant prosperity to your High Mightinesses in time and eternity. Amen. Done this XXVIII July, in New Netherland, 1649. (Signed) Adriaen van de…

These persons are thoroughly conversant with the situation of the country. I hope your High Mightinesses will be pleased thereby and extend to them a favorable audience, and give them despatch as soon as your High Mightinesses' more weighty affairs will permit, as the people will be very anxious. God preserve your High Mightinesses in continued health and prosperous government. Your High Mightines…

Lubbcrtus Van Dincklage, Vice-Director in New Netherland, written at the Manhatans the IS"- August, ultimo. Likewise, read a petition of the aforesaid three deputed persons, wherein they pray their High Mightinesses to be pleased to appoint some gentlemen from their midst in order that they may furnish some further information respecting the condition and state of the aforesaid affairs in the abov…

The petition of Johan van Wely and Wouter van Twiller, both guardians of TwuiI^.^Biommlen Johau Reuselaer, against Samuel Blommaert and Johannes de Laet, cum socns. and De LaeL being read in the Assembly, it is, after previous consideration, resolved and concluded, that the aforesaid petition be placed in the hands of the opposite party in order to answer thereunto as to the same may appertain. …

Resolution of the States General on a Petitiori of the Guardians of Johannes van Renselaer. [From the Register of West India Affairs, 1638 -- 1651, in the Royal Archives at the Hague. ] Saturday, 13 November, 1649. Folio 606. p^ certain further petition of thg Guardians of Johan van Renselaer, minor son va°n"Kenseia"°''*° of KiHacn Van Renselaer, regarding a certain Colonic on the North River …

I duly received your High Mightinesses' letter dated 2S"' April, by Cornells Melyn, who has been, on his humble petition, graciously relieved by your High Mightinesses of the sentence pronounced against him by us and our council on the Fiscal's complaint, prosecution and proof. But the appellant to your High Mightinesses, meeting no party nor defence, the papers and documents in support of the sen…

For, besides running through New England among the English people (who are not very friendly to us and our Nation here on account of old boundary requisitions and claims) proclaiming and parading your High Mightinesses' aforesaid writ of mandamus and public letters, and His Serene Highness' passports, even before they were communicated to us, to the scandal of both and to our disparagement, he gre…

The tendency of these and similar reports, with the exhibition of the writs of mandamus dragged through the mud amongst a people who, on the score of possession, are indifferently disposed towards us, we respectfully recommend to your High Mightinesses' prudence and wise consideration, assured that the falsehood of the exonerated individual, in all this matter, will be fully exposed. Should he, co…

reports, authenticated in our presence and that of the Council, that the Hon''''^ Company was bankrupt -- that your High Mightinesses had spoken very contemptuously of the Board of Directors, as being unworthy or unfit to govern your High Mightinesses' possessions that -- the supreme and secret Council of Brazil were imprisoned and had sent little bags with thousands of pistoles to this one and th…

In all humble reverence, it had been more advantageous and honorable for me never to have been favored with your High Mightinesses' Commission, or never to have sworn before your High Mightinesses to administer both criminal and civil law and justice, than pending your High Mightinesses' Commission and our recorded oath, to be, on a simple petition, so disparaged by neighbors and subjects, and so …

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : IV. 323 as far as our knowledge permits, have given our opinion thereupon conformably to Divine and human laws; if we have erred in the application or explication of them, we submit ourselves to your High Mightinesses' wiser judgment, and to Justinian's memorable saying Omnia sapo'e et in nulla 'penilus itcccare lAus dtitalis quam humanitatis est. Passing by the falsehoods intr…

Although no messenger is better than the person himself, it is necessary, for reasons aforesaid, and in consequence of the troubles and dissentions which have arisen and been fomented here from time to time, since the arrival of the aforesaid person, to send an attorney, and thereunto to request and empower our Secretary, Cornelis Van Tienhoven, with procuration and authority to substitute such ad…

We call God to witness our sincerity, that we have never, knowingly or willfully, intended injury or wrong to any man; but a peaceable and God-acceptable government to be vindicated before your High Mightinesses. In the meanwhile we apprehend, that this indecent service of summons will have the effect of withdrawing your High Mightinesses' attention from more important affairs, and of calling fort…

But, in order not to interrupt too much your High Mightinesses' important deliberations on higher and weightier matters, we will not enlarge farther in this affair, but leave the result commended to God and your far-seeing judgment; only observing to your High Mightinesses before concluding, that the sentence pronounced against the appellant Melyn, was, as appears by its tenor, not directed so muc…

For which purpose we have also furnished him, by way of reminder, with copy of our previously drafted opinions, and with an abstract hereof. Wherewith ending, we commend your High Mightinesses and the rest of your subjects to the merciful protection of the Most High. We pray the Triune God for your long and prosperous government, and are and remain, meanwhile, Your High Mightinesses' Manhattans t…

[From the Register of West India Affairs, 1633 -- 1651, in the Royal Archires at the Hague.] Thursday, 2d December, 1649. Folio 511. On petition presented to their High Mightinesses in the name and on the Cornells ran Tien- behalf of Comells vau Tieuboven, Secretary of New Netherland, as attorney of NewNeireMand.the Dlrector and Council over that country, it is, after previous deliberation, hereb…

Rensclaer, niinor son of Kiliaen van Renselaer, again praying their High Mightinesses to be pleased to dispose of their, the petitioners', previous petition respecting the solicited investiture of the Colonic Renselaer's Wyck, in New Netherland, and the violence which Director Stuyvesant is committing against them. Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded, to place the afores…

petition the aforesaid Melyn, after a very impertinent and particularly false narrative, simply requests of your High Mightinesses in substance, inasmuch as your High Mightinesses have been pleased to admit him in appeal from the judgment aforesaid and as the said Cornelis van Tienhoven had come over to this country and was residing at the Hague for the purpose of defending the same on behalf of t…

further respectively replied and rejoined to, according as the merits of the case shall be found to demand; or in default thereof, that parties shall on the day aforesaid, be mutually at liberty to demand such advantage as, according to custom and rule, the party in attendance usually obtains against the party in default. And that the proceedings herein may be in the ordinary style usually followe…

Director, pursuant to the tenor hath come hither by order of the abovenamed of the writ of mandamus in case of appeal, granted to Cornelis Melyn by their High Mightinesses on the 2Sth April 1G48, praying to be informed how and in what manner the proceedings therein will be commenced and completed. Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded that the aforesaid petition shall be …

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: IV. 327 him, the petitioner, to be subjected to torture, to which intent he had his, the petitioner's house, twice searched by the entire Council, himself also overhauling all the barrels, bales, cases, corners, stores, etc., the petitioner remaining meanwhile, for the space of thirteen long days, in the aforesaid close con6nement at the gate, and in the place where felons dese…

The petitioner consequently, presented a petition in his own name, which he would not once notice, wherefore the petitioner presented another request, copy whereof is hereunto annexed. To this it was answered on the margin that it must be communicated to the Fiscal, which having been done, the Fiscal replied that he must have 5 to 6 months time for the purpose, as he knew nothing of the matter; th…

It can be easily surmised, that the petitioner was obliged to depart for Patria, as he could not peaceably carry on his trade there, nor travel hither and thither through the country to purchase his wheat and grain, which his business required for bread for the use of the burghers, for, on twice applying to the Director for a pass, he was each time threatened by him with a caning, so that the peti…

business necessary thereunto. Wherefore the petitioner will respectfully await your High Mightinesses' favorable answer. Which doing, etc.. Signed Joost Teuniss. Baker. Read IS"- December, 1649. NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Appendix to the preadiiig Petition. To the Hon"'' Petrus Stuyvesant, Director of New Netherland, Curagao and dependencies thereof, and to the gentlemen of the Council. J…

Awaiting hereunto a favorable answer, Remains your Honors' humble and obedient. In the margin was: -- Copy of the answer given to Joost Teuniss, baker, on 26 July, 1649. These are to be communicated to the Fiscal, in order to prosecute the case. Ady 26"> July, 1649. New Amsterdam in N. Netherland. Lower stood: By order of the Hon*"' General and Council of New Netherland: Underneath was: Cornell…

Sibout Claessen, house carpenter, burgher, and inhabitant of New Netherland, most respectfully represents, that he, having married Susanna Janss, at the time widow of Aert Teunissen, her previous husband, who had entered into a contract with Director Kieft to lease a certain bouwerie named Hoboquin, situate in Pavonia on the west side of the North river, for the term of ten years commencing 1^' Ja…

The fort is dismantled and allowed to go to ruin ; and a military force hath never been maintained there competent for the defence and protection of the inhabitants, but sufficient for their ruin and destruction -- p. 303. 64. Kieft falsely laid at the door of the people the blame of the war which had been enkindled by him and his adherents, especially by Secretary Cornells van Tienhoven by means…

The Directors, in Holland, have not endeavored, nor used any means, nor given any orders, to discover the cause of, or to forbid the war, which creates strong suspicion that they themselves authorized it -- p. 314. 68. The St. Beninio, a ship belonging to Benjor, an Italian at Amsterdam, was forcibly cut out of New Haven, where it lay under the protection of the English, and brought as a prize to…

commence their introduction with calumnies against the Board, their Patroons, complaining of excesses and highly injurious neglect, which, if any existed, ought to have been represented in season to the said Patroons, by them in virtue of their commission dated 27 July, 1649, communicated for the first time, on the 9'" of December last, full eight or nine weeks subsequent to their arrival and that…

If the petitioners know of any Directors here, who have preferred their own private interests to the general advantage of the Company, contrary to their oath and honor, they ought to state it, or be bound yet to do so. Failing therein it is answered, that the petitioners do in no wise refer to the Company's government, inasmuch as they speak of matters which transpired before the major part of the…

The Directors do not select any agents but such as they consider qualified, and are approved by their High Mightinesses and by them provided with regular Commission and Instruction. And as regards the case of Jochim Pitersen and Cornelis Melyn, vfho have been punished for reasons more fully set forth in their sentence, the Board finds it particularly strange that these people dare complain that (t…

to Commission and Instruction, in the name of their High Mightinesses, his Highness and of the Company. 8. We cannot understand what the petitioners would express by the S"" Article. 9. We never heard before that the Director spoke harshly to those who treated him respectfully but are now informed that a certain person, who was unwilling to allow his goods to be inspected, behaved with great o…

But these men separated themselves from the well-disposed and secretly induced a few low inhabitants to sign their names, who, also, have contributed each a few pennies to the delegation, as more fully can appear by the particular signatures, or procuration affixed to the Remonstrance ; hence, 'tis probable that these persons abuse the name of the Commonalty, as the Remonstrance is signed by the m…

The Director hath not the administration of the money that was taken up on the plate but Jacob Couwenhoven, who is one of the petitioners, hath kept account of it in his quality of churchwarden. IG. 'Tis acknowledged that the Company is indebted to the Deaconry, nine or ten hnndred guilders, according to the tenor of the obligation thereof drawn up in New Netherland A" 1649. The first interest th…

The Charter accorded by their High Mightinesses to the Company shows that the judgments of the Director and Council are final. 21. Respecting this article, we refer to the sentence. 22. This article we refer, as above, to the sentence. 23. We are informed and therefore say, that the petitioners will not prove that the late Director, Willem Kieft, hath called in more than one patent and he su…

The Director had signed the patent on the report of Hudde, the Surveyor, without specifying therein the number of morgens. HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 341 And after information had been received from said Jan Eversen (one of the petitioners) and others, the Director allowed Tonis Nyssen agreeably to the Freedoms, as much of said valley as he should iiave need of in proportion to his plantation. 24. T…

The petitioners must show that Commissary Adriaen de Keyser, is unqualified for his office. 28 and 29. We are not aware "that the Director esteems Jelmer Tomassen and Paulus Leendersen to be thieves. Jelmer Tomassen is in this country ; if needs be, he will willingly answer the petitioners. 30. On proof of this article by the petitioners, the Fiscal will be recalled. 31. As regards the calumn…

why he was not allowed to depart, and it must be proved that the Director required from him any obligation under his hand. 342 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. 35. We are informed that the petitioners will in no wise be able to prove that Director Sruyvesant hath confiscated any person's arms; but 'tis very true, that in 1648, a few snaphaimce were found on board the Valckenier and rynnppel, on…

Joost Tonissen having been accused, with others, by the Company's Corporal, of having bought guns, locks and barrels from him ; and as the accusation was true, which said Corporal repeated against Jacob Reynsen, the Council, with the Fiscal, went to his (Tonisen's) house, and, making a search, .found one Company's musket, which the Fiscal took away with him. And as the Director and Council sought …

The latter, however, carry on a friendly trade with our Nation. 40. The ships confiscated in New Netherland are the St. Fitter, during the administration of William Kieft; the :st. Beninjo, and the ship the Prins van Denmarcken, by Director Stuyvesant and Council, because the first had not observed his contract, and had articles of contraband ; the other had come without license and without pay…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 343 who had signed the declarations as deponents, when heard thereon, frequently asserting that the declarations were drawn up quite contrary to their meaning, it was ordered that no declarations should be of any force in that country unlessdrawn up by tlie Secretary or some other public persou qualified thereunto, but by no means with any such view as the petitioners represe…

text -- five per cent -- is incorrectly applied, it having reference to freights and not to duties; according to Exemptions, article 10. 45. The merchants are treated agreeably to the regulations made therein. We know not what the petitioners mean by this article. 47. We think the Company has done enough, to wit: in conveying over, at the Company's expense, numbers of people, among whom were …

The burgher, or other inhabitants of New Netherland, do not pay any beer or wine-excise ; the inn, or tavern-keeper, alone is obliged to pay the excise, which impost is less than of right belongs to the Company, and there is no cause for the inhabitants to complain on that account. 53. We are of opinion that the petitioners are utterly ignorant of the Company's property, and very improperly mak…

We are not aware of any other but the Dutch ell, measure and weight, being in use; and an order was issued, last summer, that all tiie inhabitants should bring their weights into the Company's warehouse, to be stamped anew there. 57. No complaint has been heard against the Company's grain measure. 5S. The petitioners ought to prove that the Director trades on his own account, or allows trading…

Where the principal is refused, 'tis fair that interest be paid, the rather as the Company itself pays interest. 60. 'Tis strange that these petitioners should say the Company's debts are not paid, inasmuch as they think those indebted to the Company ought not to pay their own debts ; as shown in the preceding article. 61. Our intention is that no goods from New England, not in the regulation …

On the other hand, payment is refused of the lawful debts which the Company owes individuals, such as earned monthly wages, goods delivered, &c -- p. 313. 61. With a view to win those back whom he hath offended in the highest degree, Stuyvesant hath exempted the English, for a long time past, from the duty which the Dutch were obliged to pay; his caprice may be hence inferred. Great injury was th…

The war was caused solely by the exaction from and refusal by the Indians of contributions which they did not owe; the injudicious expeditions and violence against them, and the cruel slaughter which first manifested itself in a mysterious toast pp. 304, 305. -- 66. Jacob Ryntges and Jacob Schermerhorn were banished, and their goods confiscated, for smuggling: the ban is removed, but the restitut…

Company,) that the Remonstrants appeareth strange commence their introduction with calumnies against the Board, their Patroons, complaining of excesses and highly injurious neglect, which, if any existed, ought to have been represented in season to the said Patroons, by them in virtue of their commission dated 27 July, 1G49, communicated for the first time, on the 9'^ of December last, full eight…

If the petitioners know of any Directors here, who have preferred their own private interests to the general advantage of the Company, contrary to their oath and honor, they ought to state it, or be bound yet to do so. Failing therein it is answered, that the petitioners do in no wise refer to the Company's government, inasmuch as they speak of matters which transpired before the major part of the…

The Directors do not select any agents but such as they consider qualified, and are approved by their High Mightinesses and by them provided with regular Commission and Instruction. And as regards the case of Jochini Pitersen and Cornelis Melyn, who have been punished for reasons more fully set forth in their sentence, the Board finds it particularly strange that these people dare complain that (t…

N.) say; but this is true that the latter represent the Supreme government and the Company, administering justice conformably to Commission and Instruction, in the name of their High Mightinesses, his Highness and of the Company. 8. We cannot understand what the petitioners would express by the 8"" Article. We never heard before that the Director spoke harshly to those who treated him respectfu…

But these men separated themselves from the well-disposed and secretly induced a few low inhabitants to sign their names, who, also, have contributed each a few pennies to the delegation, as more fully can appear by the particular signatures, or procuration affixed to the Remonstrance; hence, 'tis probable that these persons abuse the name of the Commonalty, as the Remonstrance is signed by the mi…

The Director hath not the administration of the money that was taken up on the plate but Jacob Couwenhoven, who is one of the petitioners, hath kept account of it in his quality of churchwarden. 16. 'Tis acknowledged that the Company is indebted to the Deaconry, nine or ten hundred guilders, according to the tenor of the obligation thereof drawn up in New Netherland A" 1649. The first interest t…

The Charter accorded by their High Mightinesses to the Company shows that the judgments of the Director and Council are final. 21. Respecting this article, we refer to the sentence. 22. This article we refer, as above, to the sentence. 23. We are informed and therefore say, that the petitioners will not prove that the late Director, Willem Kieft, hath called in more than one patent and he su…

The Director had signed the patent on the report of Hudde, the Surveyor, without specifying therein the number of morgens. HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 341 And after information had been received from said Jan Eversen (one of the petitioners) and others, the Director allowed Tonis Nyssen agreeably to the Freedoms, as much of said valley as he should have need of in proportion to his plantation. 24. Th…

The petitioners must show that Commissary Adriaen de Keyser, is unqualified for his office. 28 and 29. We are not aware that the Director esteems Jelmer Tomassen and Paulus Leendersen to be thieves. Jelmer Tomassen is in this country ; if needs be, he will willingly answer the petitioners. 30. On proof of this article by the petitioners, the Fiscal will be recalled. 31. As regards the calumni…

Sruyvesant any person's arms; but 'tis very true, that in 1648, a few hath confiscated snaphaiince were found on board the Valckenier and Pynnppel, on arriving in New Netherland, in the hands of some freemen and sailors, who said they had brought them for their personal defence. And as they had not provided themselves with a certificate from the Chamber at Amsterdam, pursuant to general orders, t…

We are informed that the English in the colony of New Haven, in New England, had, contrary to ancient custom, protected the Company's servants and freemen who had run away, and, though requested, would not allow them to return to their Lords and Masters. A Proclamation was then issued, with the advice of the Council, that whosoever would come over to us from thence, should be protected in like man…

In consequence of housekeepers and other common people in New Netherland coming frequently before the court, with declarations drawn up by this or t'other sailor, and those HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 343 who had signed the declarations as deponents, when heard thereon, frequently asserting that the declarations were drawn up it was ordered that no quite contrary to their meaning, declarations should…

It is Company hath received five per cent, but in reality sixteen per cent, not true that the according to contracts made with merchants in the premises; they enjoy, in return, trade which the Company might otherwise retain to themselves agreeably to the charter and the ; text -- five per cent -- is incorrectly applied, it having reference to freights and not to duties; according to Exemptions, …

'Tis to be considered that, in New Netherland, only a beer and wine-excise is levied, which is paid by the Tapsters alone ; the rest of the inhabitants are untaxed and do not pay any excise- Si. The late Director Kieft, having great need of money, collected, in New [Netherland], in supplies for the people, the duties which the traders were bound to pay to the Directors at Amsterdam, as the accou…

56. Heretofore there has been no currency but Wampum among the common people, in New Netherland ; the Wampum which formerly passed at the rate of four for a stiver, was reduced to six. We are not aware of any other but the Dutch ell, measure and weight, being in use; and an order was issued, last summer, that all the inhabitants should bring their weights into the Company's warehouse, to be stamp…

And it can be proved by the books, that the debts were incurred previous to tlie war, and accrued from clothing, provisions and other necessary supplies advanced by the Directors to the people who went from Holland the most of whom now ; can pay. Where the principal is refused, 'tis fair that interest be paid, the rather as the Company itself pays interest. 60. 'Tis strange that these petitio…

Tt is not known, and proof is demanded, tiiat orders have been given by us to trade in articles of contraband. 63. Tine fort belonging to the Company has, for want of means, not been properly repaired ; the petitioners, though requested, would not aid in repairing it, although 'twas designed for their own defence; and the additional embarrassments of the Company prevented soldiers being sent th…

We never authorized nor countenanced the war; but on all occasions, ordered that every possible attempt be made to preserve peace. 66. Jacob Reyntjes and Schermerhoorn were not banished for smuggling; but because they purchased the Company's arms from its Corporal, and traded them away to the Indians; as can be proved by their letters, signed with their own hands. 67. That we have been the cau…

We cannot discover from the Remonstrance of the delegates from New Netherland, with what view these people have come hither, inasmuch as the entire of their complaints is filled with calumnies, not only against the Director, but especially against us, their Patroons, who, therefore, cannot presume otherwise but that these people intend, on the one hand, to rid themselves of all government, or on t…

We are respectfully of opinion that, if these people have anything to represent or to request, they, as has already been said in the beginning, ought to have applied to the Board of Directors, in conformity to their credentials, addressed to this Chamber. Done at the Hague, the 3P' January, 1650. (Signed) P. Marcus de Vogelar. Jacob Pergens. ISAACK VAN BeECK. Petition of the Delegates from New N…

Independent of the petitioners and their constituents being public, and for the country's interests, sworn individuals, who therefore in such case deserve full credit, their proofs are as palpable as the sun at clear noon, inasmuch as they have asserted, that disorder and an insufferable government, with their consequences, in conjunction with the covetousness of some individuals, are the sole cau…

commerce almost with the entire universe ; yea, is flourishing, whilst New Netherland, on the contrary, is a desert, usurped on the east side by the English, and on the southwest side by the Swedes, despite of first possession taken by this State; and is, moreover, impoverished, harassed and afflicted ; yea, reduced to utter ruin by the aforesaid bad government. Pending the war, remonstrances and …

now here at the Hague, also a chief cause of the ruin (as is to be seen by the copy of a petition hereunto annexed), be removed out of the country, and until population be encouraged, of which there is little appearance, unless your High Mightinesses will please to assume the supervision and protection of the country absolutely to yourselves, and to favor it with a good civil government, composed …

Wherefore we, the petitioners, in our quality aforesaid, have recourse to your High Mightinesses, humbly praying and urgently beseeching, as the Spring is at hand, and the season for preparation daily approaches, and the Delegates are here at heavy expense, that the affairs of New Netherland and its Redress be favorably considered, and that it be provisionally encouraged by the enactment, at an ea…

Which doing, etc. (In the margin.) The States General of the United Netherlands have, after previous deliberation, placed this Remonstrance in the hands of the Lords Aertsbergen and the others their High Mightinesses' Deputies for the West India Company's affairs, to investigate and examine it; to extract the important points therefrom, and report on the whole. Done in the Assembly of the most no…

Cornelis New Netherland, your High Mightinesses' Melyn, Patroon on Staten Island in humble servant, respectfully showeth: That he repaired to New Netherland with your High Mightinesses' Mandamus in case of appeal and favorable letter, obtained here in the year 1648, against the sentence pronounced by Director Petrus Stuyvesant and his Council, on your Petitioner,and caused due service of said Man…

And notwithstanding the Petitioner hath not been able to obtain, either before or after judgment, nor even after service was made of your High Mightinesses' Mandamus, nor after his indispensable protest, aught or any of the papers and documents against him whereby the judgment is claimed to be well sustained, nor sufficient copies thereof; notwithstanding the declaration of Vice- Director Lubbertu…

Therefore, in order to complain of the abovementioned frivolous, unfounded judgment, as well as to institute his further action which he hath against the abovenamed Secretary, the petitioner humbly applies to your High Mightinesses, respectfully requesting that you would be pleased to appoint time and place for the said Secretary to appear and to hear such demand and conclusion as your petitioner …

(Tn the margin was:) The States General of the United iNetherlands have, upon previous deliberation, placed this with the papers annexed, in the hands of Mess" van Aertsbergen and other their petition, High Mightinesses' Deputies for the West India Company's aff'airs, to inspect and to examine them, and to hear and understand the petitioner and Secretary van Tienhoven, who is at present here at …

Whereas Cornells Melyn, born at Antwerp, aged about five and forty years, inhabitant and burgher of the city of New Amsterdam, in New Netherland, hath dared, on the 2'^ May, 1645, and did (according to the sworn affidavit thereof being) set himself in opposition and contravention to justice, threatening the Honorable Director Kieft, at the time his lawful Governor and superior, with the gallows an…

and opposition against him, Melyn, according to divers other affidavits taken and sworn to at the time he, Melyn, was convicted of slandering justice and the law here, saying -- Here be no justice ; he was not a subject of the Hon'''' Director ; the may occupy Hon'''' Director himself with the Company's servants -- he is a headstrong fool {een duyvcls kop), with many other mutinous and seditious …

appears, however, by his own confession made in our presence, on the 16"" July of this year, without torture or iron bands, that he had a knowledge thereof; confessing that his servants with soldiers had so attempted, but contrary to order and command, whereof he, however, hath neither since nor before complained nor given any information, which is proof enough that he connived at, and silently as…

Which We and our Council having investigated and inquired into, at the request of said many points of false and Director Kieft, said calumnious letter has been found to consist in defamatory lies, as is apparent and proved by experience itself, by the testimony of others heard to the number of fifteen, also by the declaration and answers of the co-signers. Whereupon the Fiscal instituting crimina…

Wherefore, the Hon'''*' Petrus Stuyvesant, Director General, with the advice of h^s Council, name of the High and Mighty Lords States General, his Serene administering justice in the Highness the Lord Prince of Orange, and the Hon'''"' Directors of the General Incorporated West India Company, hath sentenced and condemned, as he doth hereby sentence and condemn, the aforesaid Cornells Melyn, to be…

That we, having looked into the further petition presented to us this day, in the name and on the behalf of Jochem Pietersen Cuyter and Cornells Melyn, our subjects and inhabitants in New Netherland, have enlarged, as we do hereby enlarge, the Mandamus on the other side hereof, to wit, that it may be served not only by a messenger, marshal, notary, but by such other person, either public or privat…

To Peter Stuyvesant, Director of New Netherland, the IQ"" May, 1648. The Prince of Orange. Honorable, prudent, and discreet, specially dear. You will receive by the bearers hereof, Joachim Pietersen Kuyter and Cornells Melyn, the commands which the High and Mighty Lords States General have resolved to communicate to you, to the end that you allow these people to enjoy their property free and un…

This day, 22"* May 1648, Cornells Melyn handed in to the Assembly of the Directors of the West India Company in Amsterdam, a sealed letter from their High Mightinesses the States General of the United Netherlands. Done the day as aforesaid. (Signed) Guysbert Rudolphy. This day, the 2'^ January A" 1649, Cornelis Melyn handed to the Director General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Council of New Netherl…

On the 8"" of March, 1649, when the People were assembled in the Church by order of the Hon'''^ Director General Petrus Stuyvesant, Cornelis Melyn requested that the Mandamus granted by their High Mightinesses may be read and served there by the Nine Men, and that it may be read particularly by Arnoldus van Hardenbergh. Whereupon, alter some discussion and obtained consent, it followed that Cornel…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 353 their Commission, read by me Arnold van Hnrdenbergh who summoned his Honor by virtue thereof, to appear, by the first opportunity, at the Hague before their High Mightinesses, there to hear such demand and conclusion as Cornells Melyn shall desire to institute or make against his Honor. Whereunto his Honor made answer, to the best of our recollection -- / honor the Slates…

Augustyn Heerman, Witness. Jacob van Couwenhoven, Witness. (Endorsed) Certificate of the service made on Monday the S"" March 1649 on Director Petrus Stuyvesant, of their High Mightinesses' Mandamus in case of appeal in the matter of the judgment delivered the SS"" July 1647, in New Netherland, against Cornells Melyn ; by which will be seen Stuyvesant's disrespect of their High Mightinesses' Man…

honor their High Mightinesses and their Commission (I demand) reintegration and such satisfaction as that brings with it; I have now borne long enough with postpone. nent and fruitless promises; time is short and the vessels are making ready; if your Honor designs to make restitution or reparation, let it be done quickly, according to the tenor of the Mandamus if not, I hereby protest against you.…

from their subjects, who must say what you please, are, in my opinion of no value and, as I, therefore, conclude, of no force in law. In case, then, all the documents proceedings and declarations, or one or any of them, which are to be used in law against me, are detained from me ; and in case they are refused me, and copies of the papers and documents are not furnished, as heretofore has been the…

and against all the members of the Court generally, do I protest for and on account of all damage and losses already suffered or yet to arise, from the omission and neglect of orders and instructions to do what is right and their High Mightinesses command and expressly ; order you, in case you do not repent, to wit, sincerely and indeed, and not in fine phrases, as has hitherto been your case. D…

Therein we have nothing to command ; neither does it quadrate with the tenor of the Mandamus. Who the delinquent is, God and the law have to decide. The protestor has never been refused copy of the judgment. The party must apply for the other papers in the suit and appear before the Judge who will have prudence and knowledge enough to decide what and which affidavits ought to be produced whether t…

Stuyvesant. (Endorsed) Protest on behalf of Cornells Melyn against Director Stuyvesant, and the Answer of Stuyvesant that he would send an Attorney; refuses the Protester's demand for copies of the papers to be used against him, as they must be applied for by the party. No. 10. We, the undersigned, at the request of Cornells Melyn, and in virtue of certain Mandamus granted him by their High Migh…

Done as above, on the Manhatans, in New Netherland, etc. (Signed) Arnoldus van Hardenbergh. Adriaen van der Donck. (Endorsed) Anno 1649, 16 March. Return of service made on Lubbert van Dincklage, Vice-Director of their High Mightinesses' Mandamus, in case of appeal from the sentence pronounced in New Netherland, on l?'"" July, 1647, against Jochem Pietersen Kuyter and Cornells Melyn. Whereunto h…

356 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. appear at the Hague before their High Mightinesses, by the first opportunity, there to hear and answer such demand and conclusion as Cornelis Melyn shall then make or institute against them, viz' -- 1" Monsieur -- La Monlagne: And his answer was that Cornelis Melyn should first give reasons for summoning him, and he should then communicate his answer. Done as …

Jacob van Kouwenhoven. (Endorsed) Return of service, made the 16"" March, 1649, on the undernamed persons, in virtue of their High Mightinesses Mandamus, in case of appeal on the judgment pronounced on the 25"^ July, 1047, against Cornelis Melyn who made answer as foUoweth ; : -- Jean La Montague, demands cause of summons, and he would then answer. Brian Nuton, Captain Lieutenant, does not und…

On the sixteenth of March, did I, the undersigned, accompanied by Adriaen van der Danck and Jacob van Couwenhoven, at the request of Cornelis Melyn, and in virtue of certain Mandamus granted him by their High Mightinesses, summon the Fiscal, Hendrick van Dyck, to appear, by the first opportunity, before High Mightinesses, at the Hague, and their there to hear such demand and conclusion as Corneli…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : V. 357 (Endorsed) Jleturn of service of their High Mightinesses Mandamus, in the case of appeal on llie judgment pronouced against Cornelis Melyn, made on Fiscal Hendrick van Dyck, who instituted tiie suit, A" 1647. Whose answer was: -- Anno 1649, March 16. He was not a party to the suit. No. 13. On the 23"^ March, 1649, did we, the undersigned, at the request of Cornelis Me…

So that we took no farther action, after that, in the matter. The 25th May, 1649, at the Manhattans, in New Netherland. (Signed) Arnoldus van Hardenbergh. Adriaen van der Donck. (Endorsed) Return of the service of their High Mightinesses' Mandamus in case of appeal from the sentence pronounced on Cornelis Melyn the 25"' July, 1647, in New Netherland, made on Cornelis van Tienhoven Secretary, the…

-- 358 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. (Endorsed) Return of the service and summons made on Jan Jansen Damen, on the 23'' March, 1649, in virtue of their High Mightinesses' Mandamus in case of appeal from the sentence pronounced in New Netheriand, on 25"' July, 1G49, against Cornells Melyn. 1649, 23 March. Answer: Is ready to come whenever he is served with their High Mightinesses' Mandamus, co…

We declare the above to be true and trustworthy on our manly troth in place of oath which, if necessary, we shall tender. This 10"" August, 1649. Manhatans, New Amsterdam, New Netheriand. (Signed) L. van Dincklage. La Montagne. (Endorsed) Declaration of Vice-director Lubbert van Dincklage and La Montagne, from which it appears That Director Stuyvesant said he had received express orders from h…

That he, witness, accordingly in the beginning of December of the aforesaid year 1640, did begin to distil Brandy at the requirant's house, but having continued therein six or seven months, he, the witness, must give up that work, as the aforesaid Kieft and the requirant found it expedient to let the Brandy be. He further declares that the aforesaid Commander Kieft himself paid and made good to hi…

All these aforesaid acts and declarations have I, the undersigned Notary, found, after comparison to agree with their originals; at the Hague the 5"" February A°. 1650. Me teste. (Signed) M. Beeckman, Notar Publ. Resolution of the States General, referring the preceding papers. [ From the Kegiater of Weal India Affairs, 1633--1651, in the Enyal Archives at the Hague. ] Tuesday, S"' February,…

The settlement of the boundary is highly necessary, in order to avoid, in future, all difficulties with those of New England and Virginia ; it will also promote the quiet of the Dutch Nation in New Netherland, as many would be thereby encouraged to undertake Colonies, Bouweries and Plantations, in that country. This settlement of the boundary was, in my opinion, not easy to be obtained before the …

Having been plainly tricked by the English out of the Fresh River, notwithstanding a block iiouse, called the Hope, had been erected 21 leagues up the river, in the year 1633, long before the English had been there, -- a sign of first and earliest possession -- nothing could, at first, be done in that quarter, except to repair said house, the Hope, and keep it as heretofore occupied by a suitable …

there ; this done, there need be no dread of the further progress of the English on that side, and the North river, whence most of the peltries are brought down, would also be protected. The North river is about eight leagues west of the East river at Greenwich. 4th. Long Island which extends in length from the heights opposite Staten Island, is washed on the south side by the Great Ocean ; on th…

The English of the Colony of New Haven settled two villages at the bight of the aforesaid inland sea, about three leagues from the East point of said Island ; one called Southampton, containing about 10 @^ 12 houses, [the other] Southold, about 30 houses. The undernamed towns are planted on said Island, and are all under the jurisdiction of their High Mightinesses the Lords States General of the U…

The west point of the aforesaid sea being taken possession of in like manner, the villages of Southampton and Southold would be shut in ; after this is accomplished, Siketeu Hacky, Oyster bay and Martin Gerritsen's bay must also be taken possession of. The whole of Long Island would be thereby secured to New Netherland, and the design of the English in regard to the domination of said convenient h…

No difference has arisen between the Dutch and the English of Virginia on the subject of boundary, because they have not owned what we, Netherlanders, possess. However, it would not be impolitic to determine the boundary between Virginia and New Netherland, so that all future misunderstandings and differences on this head may be prevented. The settlement of the boundary by possession can never be …

A clergyman; or, in his place provisionally, a Comforter of the sick, who could also act as schoolmaster. A surgeon, provided with medicines. A blacksmith, who is conversant with the treatment of horses and cattle. Three or four house-carpenters, who can lay brick. One cooper. , One wheelwright. Other tradesmen, such as tailors and shoemakers, follow with time. A necessary supply of munitions of …

The foregoing is what I, with all submission, briefly, and according to my imperfect knowledge, communicate on paper to your High Mightinesses on the subject of the settlement of the Boundaries by possession, such as peopling it with one or more Colonies in New Netherland. I pray the All-wise God, to preside over your High Mightinesses' Assembly, and to be pleased to permit your resolutions to red…

The Directors deputed by the West India Company do not deem it expedient to conjointly advise your High Mightinesses in the present instance on the affairs of New Netherland, and the places thereunto belonging, inasmuch as the superintendence thereof has hitherto been with the Chamber at Amsterdam, which, also specially declares its opinion thereupon, as to the manner that superintendence ought to…

Afterwards, however, in October following, at the meeting of the XIX., in Zealand, it happened that some Chambers found it difficult to share the expense, and thus this superintendence has remained exclusively to this date with the Chamber at Amsterdam. Again, the Committee of the Amsterdam Chamber considered 'twould be better that those countries should remain bound to all the Chambers in common,…

As the islands of Curasao, Bonaire and Aruba have been found for many years to be only a burden to the Company, not producing any profit, we have, therefore, considered whether it would not be well to request permission of the Supreme government to give up said Islands: but if such were not feasible, 'twould, in our opinion, be best, to permit every one to establish Colonies on said Islands, to di…

As for the last mentioned country, we consider little or no change necessary in regard to Colonists who have planted Colonies there already, but to permit them to enjoy the Freedoms granted on the in the year 1630. But as those Colonists formerly complained that they were not allowed to export the products of their' lands for their own benefit beyond the territory of New Netherland, they were perm…

We should above, all things consider it necessary to provide ways and means ; we are of opinion that permission should be obtained from the Magistrates of some Provinces and Cities, to take from the alms-houses or orphan asylums 300 (ai 400 boys and girls of 10, 12 to 15 years of age, with their consent, however, and that their passage and board could be procured for fl. 50 or 60 per head. With th…

Now, it will be in the highest degree necessary, to endeavor some settlement of Boundary with the English on any terms whatsoever; and as no opportunity might offer for the negotiation of any Boundary line either in the name of King or Parliament, or of existing Powers, in in the government of England, we should not deem it consequence of violent interruptions unwise to empower the Director to ag…

In New England all the property and means of the people, as well of the highest as the lowest, are appraised by the Magistrates, and taxed according to each one's ability ; for the Pay of the Governor, Deputy Governor, Magistrates, Secretaries, Marshals and Constables. Pay of Military Officers who exercise the inhabitants continually under arms. The military officers are Majors, Captains, Lieute…

In the event of war occurring, as was the case a few years ago against the Pequatoos and other Indians, all the towns are obliged to furnish as many soldiers at their expense, at the place of rendezvous, as the General Court indicates, on condition of the latter providing their pay, rations and ammunition. The foregoing are the burthens which New England has, to my own knowledge, to defray. Ady, 2…

In order, then first to describe those lands which are actually the most convenient and the best and ought to be occupied the earliest, where and how located, I shall enumerate the following places, and commend the remainder to the consideration of proprietors of this country. I begin then at the most easterly corner of Long Island, being a point situate on the Main Ocean, inclosing within, westwa…

Oijstcrbiiy, so called from the great abundance of fine and delicate oysters which are found there, is about a short league across, or in width at the mouth ; deep and navigable, without either rocks or sands, runs inland nearly west, and divides itself into two rivers, which are broad and clear, on which lie some fine maize lands, formerly cultivated by the Indians, some of which are still worked…

Schout^s bay, on the East river, is also very open and navigable, with one river running into it; on said river are also fine maize lands, level and not stony, with right beautiful valleys. Beyond said river is a very convenient hook of land, somewhat large, encircled Ly a large valley and river, where all descriptions of cattle can be reared and fed, such convenience being a great accommodation f…

and Armonck.i In the Bay of the North river, about two leagues from Sandy Hook, lies an inlet or small bay; on the south shore of said bay, called Neysivcsinck, there are also right good maize lands which have not been cultivated by the natives for a long time. This district is well adapted for raising and feeding all sorts of cattle, and is esteemed by many not ill adapted for fisheries; a good …

This district was abandoned by the natives for two reasons ; the first and principal is, that finding themselves unable to resist the Southern Indians, they migrated further inland ; the second, because this country was flooded every spring like Renselaer's colonic, frequently spoiling and destroying their supplies of maize which were stored in holes under ground. Through this valley pass large nu…

Boors and others who are obliged to work at first in Colonies ought to sail from this country in the fore or latter part of winter, in order to arrive with God's help in New Netherland early in the Spring, in March, or at latest in April, so as to be able to plant, during that summer, garden vegetables, maize and beans, and moreover employ the whole summer in clearing land and building cottages, a…

This being done in the winter, some plough right around the stumps, should time or circumstances not allow these to be removed ; others plant tobacco, maize and beans, at first.The soil even thus becomes very mellow, and they sow winter grain the next fall. From tobacco, can be realized some of the expenses incurred in clearing the land. The maize and beans help to support both men and cattle. Tli…

The farmer can get all sorts of cattle in the course of the second summer, when he will have more leisure to cut and bring home hay, also to build houses and barns for men and cattle. OF THE BUILDING OF HOUSES AT FIRST. Before beginning to build, '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. Th…

a ceiling, raise a roof of spars clear up and cover the spars with bark or green sods, so that they can live dry and warm in these houses with their entire families for two, three and four years, it being understood that partitions are run through those cellars which are adapted to the size of the family.The wealthy and principal men in New England, in the beginning of the Colonies, commenced thei…

The hogs, after having picked up their food for some months in the woods, are crammed with corn in the fall when fat they are killed and furnish a very hard and clean pork a good ; ; article for the husbandman who gradually and in time begins to purchase horses and cows with the produce of his grain and the Increase of his hogs, and instead of a cellar as aforesaid, builds good farm-houses and b…

A good mare sells for 100 (3x 120 A stallion, 100 A milch cow, 60 @^ 70 A yearling sow, 12 @; 14 Sheep are not sold there. Tt is to be observed that in a Colonie 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. If the above cattl…

The skepel costs ordinarily 10 @^ 15 stivers when bought from the Indians. Beef, Vinegar, Pork, Peas and Butter or oil instead; Beans. Salad oil and vinegar are not easy to be had in that country except at an excessively high price from the Dutch traders. All this being arranged it must be noted what description of people are best adapted for agriculture in New Netherland, and to perform the mos…

A clergyman, comforter of the sick, or precentor who could also act as schoolmaster. A wheelwright. All other tradesmen would follow in time ; the above mentioned mechanics are the most necessary at first. In order to promote population through such and other means, the people must be provided with Freedoms and Privileges so as to induce them to quit their Fatherland, and emigrate with their famil…

The English of New England put this in practice, as is to be seen, after the land had been first brought to proper condition; they sell their provisions at the Caribbean Islands, staves at Madeira and the Canaries, masts and fish in Spain and Portugal and bring in return all sorts of commodities; so much of these returns as they do not consume, are again distributed by them throughout all the isla…

The Company, at their own cost and in their own ships conveyed several boors to New Netherland, and gave these the following terms: The farmer, being conveyed with his family over sea to New Netherland, was granted by the Company for the term of six years a Bouwerie, which was partly cleared, and a good part of which was fit for the plough. The Company furnished Ihe farmer a house, barn, farming …

The risk of the cattle dying is shared in common, and after the expiration of the contract the Company receives, if the cattle live, the number the husbandman first received, and the increase which is over, is divided half and half; by these means many people have obtained stock and, even to this day, the Company have still considerable cattle among the Colonists, who make use on the above conditi…

Observations on the Duties levied on Goods sent to New JSfetherland. [ From the OrigiDal in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague Loketkas of the Slates General ; ; EnbriCj West IndiscTie Compagnie^ No. SO ; 10th Divieion of the Bundle. ] Considerations on the subject of the duty which the Hon*'' West India Companylevies on the goods exported to New Netherland, and whether it were better, in regard …

Now, in this way, the cost in New Netherland is, and must be, doubled if expenses are in any way to be realized. Again, 16 per cent, the same as on exportation from Netherland twice 16 make 32. This is a sum ; One hundred guu- Certain, which must be paid to the Company before a hundred guilders, ^" c-mfany before transmltt-cd from Netherland, can be reimbursed exclusive of the convoy, which rece…

Loss experienced And then all the goods are again removed to the public store, broken open, bv the depreciation ohhe goods. , iii -i examined, remeasured, unpacked, thrown aside and damaged in a way that 'tis i, ,• <.. painful to behold. Frequently they are also detained so long that the best season for selling or trading them off" is lost. When, then, they are sold and returns come to Fatherla…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : V. 373 2. 'Tis very true that the Company receives the money from the traders; yet it cannot be said to pay it out of its pocket. But here must be considered that the disbursements of How the mercharis duty, the Cartage to and from the public store, tlie abovementioned loss of time, cap'W- and other troubles, are computed by the merchants and skippers as capital, the same as t…

And, by this means, what cost one guilder in Netherland, they order sold for two, two and a half, and often and most frequently, for withont snuiKgiins three guildcrs; and if they do not smuggle, or help themselves by contraband, 6o°gr"a'i! °anli"'iht thcv caunot retain so much clear profit, as all will testify who have ever traded goods are ear. ^^ ^^^ Netherland, The inhabitant pays ^' ^^'® Co…

Therefore, to take off, or reduce the duty, would not be a relief exclusively for the merchants, but also for the poor Commonalty. What goods pay duty, and does the Company receive duly on all. Whatever gnes All goods which are entered and not smuggled oo pay duty, no matter whether i ./ openly t.> ST. Ni-lh- ./ eriaod pays dmy. the cargo is for Indians, or dry goods or liquors. If the cargoes…

Now this advantage by no means satisfies the public; for these petty traders spend freely which on the Again, they say: if we smuggle anything, that is our other hand small capital cannot justify. own gain; we run our risk, for if we be caught, we lose all; therefore if we gain anything, we wish to enjoy it alone. 4. As the greatest profit arises from powder, lead, guns and similar articles, the…

Thus considerable free of duty and nothing coming thence into English wares are consumed in New Netherland, and many goods from Holland by way of England and New England also come into New Netherland, which practice will probably so obtain in 2 or 3 years, that even if the duty remain, the Company will get nothing. Thus the Company receives the fourth part of the duties, but not of the goods which…

But on the contrary, this State will inevitably be subject to contempt and derision on tlie part of the English, (who in course of time will absorb the country) for suffering so very advantageous a position and so profitable a province as New Netherland to slip through its fingers, on account of some particular interests ; and for still lacking means, with a knowledge of the superiority of the cou…

New Netherland would do well, and the people might properly be encouraged to go thither ; population might then be advanced in an orderly manner and with little trouble, and this State would, with poor and Beyr-nd Netherland wllHug people, who are iu each other's way here and almost perish of want, another Nethr*":ir , -mr . i t i i i*,t • i i n* i i eriand. rear up another Netherland beyond Ne…

We suppose that the Directors will maintain that it will be best for the Company to continue the duties. We are, nevertheless of a contrary opinion and say, that it would be HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : V. 375 It would be better would be best for the Company in general to remove at once the New Netherlands tbatiiK-re w.'.ui.rbu dutv."^ But US this simple i position may r ^ not, perhaps, r r be adm…

The doty diverts the "^^ ''^''^ exacting of duties diverts trade from here, for were the imposts removed, "'*''°" a greater and a larger business would be transacted at New Netiierland ; and this renders the duty with good reason unsavory to, and hated by all maritime cities, adapted to commerce, such as principally Amsterdam and similar places, which in this conjuncture do not require them. 4. …

Now, were the duty abolished, the Company could, with a The Company could 8°°^ grace, put 3. stop to all its present expenditure there, leaving only one person to manage their revenue in that country, and to command the people. the'^'r^'enUs*'' of Whilst New N^tlierland. ° . r j you now give us nothing, you must detend , , yourselves; we cannot maintain any soldiers for you; if you will have …

New Netherland. nor populate New Netherland; and if this do not happen, it will bring you into great disrepute with the English and Swedes. Again, your High Mightinesses will be continually troubled and disturbed by public and private petitions, until the entire country will become exclusively English. 7. Now, should the Hon'^'^Company answer to this: Whence shall we be paid back our arrears? We …

Bclherland. , best . , . And this, in my opinion, is the , , ^ and only way to help the Company to what is its right, and lo retain the , ,...., country. For, if it be retained by the Company on a different plan, the latter will, from year 376 NEW-YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. to year, get into more intricate labyrinths, and finally the English and Swedes will make away with the Province. Whet…

We are now and always ready, when 'tis your High Mightinesses' pleasure, to exhibit and produce the papers and letters, mentioned on the fifth instant, in your High Mightinesses' Assembly, 7 March, 1G50. Received 12 March, 1650. Petition of the Delegates from New Netherland. [ From the Original in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague ; Lokelkas of the States General ; Eubric West Indlsche Compagnie, N…

The skipper and owners of said vessel further declare that, had they six times more accommodation or ships, they would all be filled; so that in the hope of better government, more passengers begin to set their faces towards New Netherland, according as passage and opportunity offer. As this tends greatly to the peopling and prosperity of that Province, we, therefore, are unwilling to neglect dire…

And that he, deponent, hath rejected fully as many as thirty persons, for the aforesaid reason, that he cannot accommodate any more people in his vessel ; further deponent saith not. Thus executed within the city of Haerlem aforesaid, on the fifteenth of March XVI" and fifty, in presence of Mathys Arentsen Zuyck and Govert van Liphorst, witnesses, invited for the verification hereof, and who, with…

Eedress and (Eoon- '^''^*' ^^^^^ ''^^ Provinces should pronouHcc on the following points: -- On the °™^' Redress and CEconomy drawn up for the West India Company and heretofore transmitted to the Provinces. Secondly, that extract of a Writing transmitted on the yV instant by the Chamber at Amsterdam to them, their High Mightinesses' Deputies, respecting the Tradeto New Netrade to be carried on …

InTiandl'^n B^- ''^^^ their High Mightinesses have sent a reinforcement thither of twelve ships, "'' . . provisions, money for the pay of the soldiers, and supplies of shoes and stockings oiher Buppiies. ^^ be delivered to the Military, at such price as they are purchased here; all amounting to one hundred and twenty thousand guilders cash, and thirty thousand guilders in the aforesaid necessar…

On the abovenamed third point, it is resolved and concluded, that agreeably to the plan therein proposed, the President and Supreme Council in Brazil, and, mutatis mutandis, Lieutenant General Schoppe shall be written to and be respectively encouraged to the defence and maintenance of the forts and countries of Brazil. States General to the Amsterdam Chamber of the West India Company. [ From the…

We have had an extract made, as annexed hereunto, of the information you sent on the ll"" instant to the Lords, our Committee, for the affairs of the West India Company of these parts, so far as mention was made, in the aforesaid information, Nevr Netherid. of frequenting New Netherland and of its trade, and transmitted said extract to the other Chambers of said Company respectively, with request…

Herewith is sent an extract from written information which Honorable, &c. the Directors of the West India Company, at Amsterdam, transmitted on the IJ"" instant to New Netheriand, our Committee in the matter of the West India Company of these parts. As mention is made in the aforesaid information of the resort to New Netherland and its trade, we, therefore, hereby request and require you to deput…

100 are to be farmers and farm servants, and the remaining 100 such as the Amsterdam Chamber is accustomed to send over, conversant with agriculture, and to furnish them with necessary supplies for the voyage on the condition that the aforesaid Committee of the Company shall allow the New Netherland contractors here to have, or to draw from the duties New Netherland the sum which, after this date…

Council in New IVetherland, permission to return earlier, and not allow them to depart without firstpaying double the amount of the passage, and in case it come to pass that the aforesaid two hundred persons be not put on ship-board within the aforesaid time, so as to be able to go to sea, the aforesaid Van der Donck, Couwenhoven and Boudt, shall forfeit to the Company, from their private property…

And the New Netherland contractors declare that they do not intend to derive any profit beyond the return of cost which must be disbursed to obtain the passengers; they also bind themselves, the costs being deducted, to leave any overplus there may be, to be applied next year to the like conveyance of farmers or farm servants; whereunto they each oblige themse\\es in sotiditm and under renunciatio…

Dele atesfromNew Assembly is advised that some Delegates from New Netherland having '^^^ Netherland. come here with power to convey from this country to that, a considerable number of farmers and other people, but that the aforesaid district being under the West India Company's jurisdiction, the Directors of said Company intend to draw some duties from the aforesaid country of New Netherland. W…

Further, we duly received your High Mightinesses' letter of the 12"" instant slilo loci, that we should confer at the Hague with your High Mightinesses' Committee on the 26"" March, on the subject of the resort to New Netherland and of its trade, upon certain information transmitted by the Amsterdam Directors to your High Mightinesses' Committee for the afiairs of the West India Company, we would …

Received a from the Directors of the West India Company at the letter Chamber at Gronin- Chamber of the city of Groningen and Ommelanden, written at Groningen, Provisions for Bra- the 14"" iustant stilo loci, regarding the sending provisions to Brazil, and also the New Netherland. of New Netherland. affair Whereupon, deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded that the aforesaid letter …

And whereas it is considered necessary that the population now under consideration be favored and encouraged in every way, their High Mightinesses charge him, the Director, and Council to take care that the country be not divested of Guns, horses, cows, horses and cows, also that provisions be retained to supply arriving Colonists, and the inhabitants generally furnished with arms necessary for th…

Further, that said guns shall be distributed among the inhabitants of the city of ^evf Amsterdam and those who are capable of bearing arms, and also to other families spread throughout the Country, who shall be expressly ordered and obliged to keep their guns in good condition and to supply themselves with necessary powder, causing pertinent record to be kept of the guns distributed as aforesaid, …

nor molest those who came from New Netherland, and are about to return thither, on account of any representations that may have been made here ; and whereas we deem it expedient, that the population, which is now needed, should be favored and encouraged in every way, we direct and order you to take care that the country be not divested of horses and cows; also that supplies of provisions be reserv…

You shall, moreover, distribute the aforesaid guns among the inhabitants of the city of New Amsterdam, and to all those who are capable of bearing arms, and to other families scattered throughout the country, with express command that they shall be obliged to keep their guns in good order, and to provide themselves witii requisite powder, keeping correct register of the guns distributed as aforesa…

The report being heard of Messrs. van Aertzbergen and other their High Mightinesses' Committee for the affairs of the West India Company, who pursuant to their High Mightinesses' resolutions looked into and examined certain petition of the guardians of johan Tan Rens- Johan Van Renssclacr, minor son of Kiliaen van Renselaer deceased, whereby they laer's guardians. requcst their High Mightinesses…

On the petition of Dirck van Schelluyne Notary here in the Hague, it is, after Kyneadmuied''Nl' previous deliberation, hereby resolved and concluded to admit the petitioner '*""" MiLd.^*" peaceably and quietly, in all loyalty, to exercise the office of Notary at the Manhatans, and further throughout the entire of NevF Netherland in all existing and future Colonies where the Petitioner elects his …

We, the aforesaid Dirck van Schelluyne have appointed and authorized, and do hereby appoint and authorize, to e.xercise the aforesaid profession of Notary at the abovenamed Manhatans and further throughout the whole of New Netherland, in all actual and future Colonies, where the petitioner keeps his domicile, or may on request or occasion, repair, giving him full power, to draw up all Declarations…

Assembly to get their Great Mightinesses there to cause to be introduced some Provincial motion on the petition of the delegates from New Netherland relative to the conveyance of two hundred or more farmers or other persons required in that country, and other matter appertaining thereunto. Whereupon deliberation being had, the members from Amsterdam are requested to communicate their opinions, as …

Also that he had purchased on credit at a high price payable in the Spring, all the provisions which were on hand and necessary there, as the rivers are closed by the ice, and prevent approach ; whereby the poor people are reduced And as these matters are of very bad consequence and produce to extremity and great scarcity. many inconveniencies for New Netherland, as we could specifically enumerat…

so thnt a sliip load of provisions amounts to a great Heal among so few people, more especially as mimy farms wliich were devastated by the war, are yet unsown by farmers and laborers and lie waste ; ail which cause want and scarcity. These being noted, as your Noble Mightinesses will furtiier see by the accompanying documents, the Delegates again most humbly turn to your Noble Mightinesses respec…

When he spoke in behalf of the interests of the Company and the Country, Sluyvesant said, he should not sit wiih him, that he is a fomenter of sedition, and a vagabond ; and other similar tilings too numerous to be detailed here. Therefore, assistance is very much desired, for things begin to come to a crisis; we wish, then, that God would be pleased to send the delegates back quickly with busines…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : V. 387 On the 13 December, Anno 1649, the Hon'''* Mr. Dincklagen protests in Council against the Hon''''= Director Stuyvesant and Arent van Corlaer, in the name of their High Mightinesses, the Lord Prince of Orange and the Hon'''* West India Company, for having exported horses by the ship, the Prins, to Barbadoes, as Corlaer exhibits no license from their High Mightinesses, or…

And to this end, having inquired into the system of government hitherto maintained in New Netherland, the heavy burtlieiis which the Company hath in con.sequence borne, and the small profii. derived therefrom, the destruction of the population, the neglect in applying remedies to errors and excesses; and, considering that your High Mightinesses cannot, and ought not any longer approve of the perve…

388 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. lieretofore for the government thereof, the increase and establishment of the population, raising and bearing of necessary taxes, the prevention of dangers and general ruin similar to what has been bitterly experienced for a few yearsand further, for the effectual removal of all sorts ; of evils and troubles, which have been elaborately submitted to your High …

Whereas their High Mightinesses have received the strange and unexpected in elligence that contributions have been demanded from the Aborigines of the country and, such having been refused, that the late Director Kieft, under pretense that the people so demanded by petition, signed, however, by merely three persons, had waged against those Aborigines an unnecessary, bloody and ruinous war, the ins…

Thirdly, that those who, contrary to express orders and prohibition, have undertaken to sell and barter articles of contraband, such as guns, pistols, powder and lead to the Aborigines, and thus exposed themselves, with all those who actually reside, or hereafter may come to New Netherland, to the imminent danger of being suddenly attacked, massacred and driven ofT, shall be punished for the exces…

Fourthly, whereas their High Mightinesses learn that the people of New Netherland either are not obliged, or have themselves forgotten to possess and make use of arms necessary for their own defence, therefore, the inhabitants generally, shall be bound each to provide himself with a good gun and the requisite powder and lead, and be enrolled and formed into companies, have the said guns stamped an…

Whereas it is found that greater pains have generally been taken to promote the fur trade than the agriculture and population of the country, the Supreme Council there, shall, in consequence, above all things, provide that cattle be not exported, but be as much as possible retained and reared there; also that a good quantity of grain be kept in store, to be furnished and sold at a reasonable price…

The propositions as they are drawn shall be amplified for the relief of the Directors of the Amsterdam Chamber and the increase of the public revenue, without embarrassing the Slate or West India Company, in such wise that instead of 20,000 guilders or thereabouts, which the Amsterdam Chamber now draws annually, it shall be able to derive fifty thousand guilders and by degrees increase further to …

For which purpose the Director and Council shall be bound to call a meeting of the Patroons of Colonies, or their agents, and of the deputies of the Commonalty, to be held within the city of New Amsterdam for the purpose of nominating four qualified persons from whom two shall be selected who shall be thereunto qualified by their High Mightinesses and those of the West India Company. These two ele…

And a suitable person conversant with Agricultural matters and the nature of soils, shall be forthwith dispatched and sent by the first opportunity to New Netherland to take charge of the lands situated on both sides of the Great North river, extending southerly to the South river, and northerly to the Fresh river, with instruction based on the Considerations exhibited conjointly by the Directors …

Finally, the sum of fifteen thousand guilders at least shall hereafter be annually appropriated from funds pointed out by the Delegates from New Netherland, for the conveyance of families, or those who will apply themselves to agriculture, and are not able to pay their passage and expenses. And for this purpose, two ships shall, agreeably to concluded arrangements, be chartered and provisioned, wi…

The Directors of the Incorporated West India Company of the Chamber at Amsterdam, having communication of the annexed writing, and being ordered to submit their opinion thereon, state, under correction, as their conclusion on the first, That they most respectfully -- request to know how, and by what means it appears to their High Mightinesses that the war against the Indians was undertaken solely …

New Amsterdam is provided, and none is yet required in the out-lying places. 8. This point is fully treated in the Freedoms. The purport of this article ought to be made clearer in order to render it intelligible. In all cases we cannot understand how the inhabitants can be brought to bear the expenses, inasmuch as it is already stated that they complain about a small impost on beer and wine, w…

The Directors consider this coming over to be entirely unnecessary, unless some reasons to the contrary be alleged. And in case some information be required on the affiiirs in New Netherland, in addition to what Secretary van Tienhoven can furnish, the Vice Director might come home. 15. They consider this to be co-dependent on the preceding. 18. The judicature ought to be left as established, …

(Endorsed) Remarks of the West India Chamber at Amsterdam on the Provisional Order on the government, preservation and peopling of New Netherland. 11 April, 1650. Provisional order respecting the govern- Remarks of the Amsterdam Chamber. ment, preservation and peopling of 11 April, 1650. New Netherland. Messrs. van Aertsbergen and the other your The Directors of the West India Company High M…

aforesaid Directors, that they would receive all deduction in presence of their High Mightijust and respectful representations. And to nesses' deputies. this end, having inquired into the system of government hitherto maintained in New Netherland, the heavy burdens which the Company hath in consequence borne, and the small profit derived therefrom, the impeding The Directors request proof wherein…

And whereas your High Mightinesses, as Sovereigns over your subjects, are well qualified, nay bound, to see that the property of the latter, still in a condition to be saved and improved, if no time be lost and if good care be taken, shall not be allowed to go to ruin or fall into the hands of others; Therefore, they, your High Mightinesses' Committee, are of opinion that the preservation of those…

-- HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 395 Netherland Delegates to return this season, to The Directors understand that these people encourage and animate all the inhabitants are not fit to contribute anything to the poputhere to sedulously attend to Ihe cultivation of lation and its advancement, inasmuch as tiiey the soil, the improvement, security and increase have set themselves up against the Company of …

Noble Mighty, some means which will be highly necessary, and, according to all' human calculation, advantageous and profitable to their High Mightinesses' design herein. The affairs of New Netherland assumed in the beginning a favorable appearance of good progress and especial advantage from individuals and particularly from the State ; but the hope which everyone there entertained of the proximat…

What damage New Netherland hath suffered in consequence of the aforesaid unlawful and unnecessary War, which brought it to the brink of ruin -- and how much innocent blood, as well of heathens as of christians and even of sucklings, hath been unnecessarily and barbarously shed, your noble Mightinesses will be able to ascertain from the annexed Points and Articles,' which I present to you, not fro…

Knowing that the abovenamed Tienhoven is not only one of the principal authors thereof, but that he actually hatii sojourned some time here in Fatherland, those people, if they see him arrive yonder from Fatherland without being either censured or corrected as the joint author of the aforesaid mischiefs, will not only wholly despair and probably in desperation depart thence, perceiving that no bla…

If, on the contrary, he should obstinately and shamelessly deny the truth thereof, or otherwise render it obscure by amphibological, double-meaning or indirect answers, I, through the humble duty I owe their High Mightinesses and the love I feel for the preservation and prosperity of the present people of New Netherland, am always ready to furnish your Mightinesses, or whomsoever their High Mighti…

Monday, U"" April, 1G50. Folio 551. Messrs. van Aertsbergen and other, their High Mightinesses' deputies, for the affairs of the West India Company, have submitted and laid before the Assembly, a certain ProTisionai Order Written Provisional Order respecting the government, preservation and peopling '"'''"'**'""""'"'• of New N'etherland. Whereupon, deliberation being had, it is resolved and …

Requesting hereby that Jacob van Kouwenhoven, Captain of the Burghery in Netherland, be authorized to distribute the aforesaid guns there at a reasonable price, with the knowledge of the Director, Council and Select men, according as the government shall think proper. Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded hereby to permit and allow the aforesaid Jacob van Couwenhoven to di…

The said deposition states and mentions besides, that Petrus Stuyvesant, the present Director does, and disposes of, every thing according to his will and pleasure, without acknowledging, or paying any respect to Lubbert van Dincklagen, the Vice Director who is Doctor ulrivsque iiiris, or to the Nine Select men ; yea, has dared to act and actually does proceed in direct opposition to their will, a…

In like manner, that your High Mightinesses may resolve that the Board of the Nine elected Select men, whose commission, order and instruction have been exhibited to your High Mightinesses, shall, until your High Mightinesses' further commands, remain in full force as it was, or ought to have been at the time of our departure from New Netherland, in order thus by peaceful means at once, to be able…

On this day the 12"" April, of this year Sixteen hundred and fifty, before me Martin Beeckman admitted Public Notary by the Court of Holland and resident here, and the undernamed witnesses, appeared the worthy VVilhelm Noble, of Alckmaer, aged eight and twenty years, late Surgeon of Captain Blaeuwvelt, sailing the yacht La Gurse belonging to New Netherland, who declared and certified, as he hereby…

Coming subsequently, on the 21"' September, 1649, New Netherland with our aforesaid bark, having in a storm lost the after divers rencounters to prize which was driven by wind and weather into New England, we applied to Director Stuyvesant, who took our declaration under oath, as already stated, promising to write to Wilhelm Nobel hath further declared it to be true their High Mightinesses on th…

Presented to the Assembly, a petition from the Delegates of New Netherland, in ^^^ they received a certain Ne'Sand."' substance purporting that on this day, 12"" April, deposition of William Nobel, late surgeon on board Captain Blaeuw's yacht La Garse, Spaniards in the representing r O that the Spaniards r in the West Indies were ignorant o of the peace r 7 West Indies ignorant which of the …

Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded on the first point, that the Director and Government in New Netherland, shall be jointly written to by a despatch in triplicate, to publish the peace in every part of that district under the jurisdiction of this State, and for this purpose some proclamations with divers copies of the treaty of peace, in both languages, shall be sent th…

Whereas we are informed that the peace has not yet been published Honorable. , publish the '" ^6^ Netherland, and that, therefore, some prizes are still detained there, "^^ notwithstanding we sent you already, on the 19"" May, 1648, some copies of the 400 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. Treaty. We, therefore, have resolved hereby again to direct and command you, that you cause on sigiit he…

Mr. van Aertzbergen hath again exhibited and laid before the Assembly, the Order for the rot. Provlsioual Order respecting the government, preservation and peopling of New '" NTiherland". Netherland. Whereupon, deliberation being had, it is resolved, that the aforesaid order shall be placed in the hands of the abovementioned Mr. van Aertzbergen, and the other their High Mightinesses' previous dep…

That the Freedoms and Exemptions for the people going to New Netherland, be approved. HOLLAND DOCUMENTS : V. 401 Draft of Freedoms and Exemptions for New NetJierland. [ From the Draft on a half sheet in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague Loketkas of Ihe Slates General ; ; Division, West Indisdie Compagnie, No. 30. Freedoms and Exemptions granted and allowed by the Incorporated West India Company…

The aforesaid freemen shall be accepted according to the order of their application, so that whoever comes first shall be accommodated first, without any difference; and should it occur that more persons present themselves than can be conveyed in the ship or ships lying ready to sail, those remaining shall be preferred in the next succeeding vessel with this understanding, ; however, that it shal…

Said persons shall enjoy Exemption from Tenths of all the aforesaid fruits and crops for the term of years, and thenceforth one additional year's Exemption for every legitimate child they shall convey thither or get there. And should any among the aforesaid persons have an inclination to pasture animals, horses or cattle, and to support themselves in that way, they shall be shown clean and good p…

Whoever will desire to erect, as Patroon, a Colonic in New Netherland, sliall be also at liberty to do so, and for that purpose to look out, either himself or by others, according to circumstances ; on condition that he declare that he will undertake to plant therein within the space of four years, after giving notice to any of the Company's Chambers here, or to the Commander or Council there, a C…

And Patroons shall be at liberty, through their agents, at the place where they intend to plant their Colonies, to extend their limits four leagues along the coast, or on one side of a navigable river, or two leagues along both sides of one river, and as far inland as the circumstances of the occupants will permit; which circumstances shall be considered by, and be at the discretion of, the Direct…

All the land situate within the limits aforesaid, together with all the fruits, superficies minerals, rivers and fountains thereof, shall the Patroons possess for ever in propriety, with high, middle and low jurisdiction, hunting, fishing, fowling and milling, the lands remaining allodial ; but the jurisdiction be held as a perpetual hereditary fief, fealty and homage for which, when it devolves,…

The Patroons shall also be at liberty to make use of all adjacent lands, rivers and woods of any use to them, until! the same be alloted by this Company to other Patroons or individuals. HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 403 Whoever shall send colonists over shall furnish them with proper instructions in order that they may be ruled and governed both in police and justice, conformably to the manner of gover…

But in case it be not convenient, or suitable for the Company to send any ships, or if there be no room in the sailing vessels, then the Patroons, and also all other private persons, shall be at liberty, after having previously communicated their intention to the Company, and obtained its written consent, to send thither their own ships or yachts, provided that in going or returning, they do not d…

And whereas it is the Company's intention to colonize the island of the Manhattes first, the staple of all produce and wares accruing on the North river and the country thereabout, shall be provisionally there, before they can be sent further, with the exception of those which are naturally useless there, or cannot be brought thither without serious damage to the owners; in which case, the owners …

Said Patroons, colonists and inhabitants, shall be also at liberty to trade their goods obtained there, everywhere on the coast of New Netherland and parts circumjacent thereunto, for all sorts of merchandise to be met with there, conditioned that such traders shall be obliged to bring to the island of the Manhattes, if it be anywise possible, all the goods that they will be able to procure, in or…

' Om 600 het mogelyck is, van daer naer beboorlycke inventarisatie tbd alle ingelaJen goederen, na de voorsehreven landen gcsonden te werden. 404 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. the same, that it will not receive, mucli less permit them to leave the service of their Patroon for that of another, except by previously written consent of their Patroon ; and this during such term of years as they are …

And the Patroons of Colonists are allowed to send ships along the Coast of New Netherland for the fishing of cod, and to proceed with their catch directly to Italy or other neutral countries, on condition of paying the Company in such case six guilders per last duty; and should they touch here with their cargo, they shall be free [to continue their voyage] but they shall not, under pretext of this…

But they shall be bound to pay the same duties as the inhabitants of this country on the returns which they will obtain for them in trade and import into New Netherland or here ; but on Negroes they shall not pay more than 20 guilders per head. And in case it happen that the ships of the aforesaid Colonists and Freemen should in going or returning overpower any Portuguese prizes, they shall be ob…

The Company will request the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands to take all Patroons, colonists and inhabitants, whether free or bond, under their protection in like manner as the Company, as far as it lies in its power, is doing; and accordingly promises to assist in defending as far as it will be able, with the force it hath there, the aforesaid Patroons, colonists an…

The Company reserves unto itself all great and small tithes, all waifs and estrays, the right of establishing mints, highways and forts, declaring war and making peace, all wildernesses, planting cities, towns and churches, and all according to the Charter and under the supreme sovereign rule of the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands and ; that, saving unchanged and un…

wicked; which governor and council, now, or hereafter to be, appointed by the Company, shall take cognizance, in the first instance, of affairs appertaining to the freedom, dignity, domain, finance and rights of the General West India Company ; of the complaints which any one, as well strangers, neighbors of the aforesaid countries as inhabitants thereof, may make in cases of privilege, innovation…

Thus done by the Committee of the General Incorporated West India Company in the Hague the The States General of the United Netherlands having seen and considered the preceding Freedoms and Exemptions, have approved and ratified, as their High Mightinesses do hereby approve and ratify the same. Requiring and ordering the Director and Council of New Netherland to regulate and conduct themselves ag…

LrrchiiJr"en.*'"°'' Tcsolvcd and concluded that the aforesaid letter and bag shall remain sealed and deposited in the office of their High Mightinesses' Secretary, until the costs and charges which have accrued in the aforesaid case shall have been paid and defrayed. Resolution of the States General confirming the Judgment in the case of Blommaert et al. against Van Rensselaer. [ From the Kegis…

In the suits pending before the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands between Samuel Blommaert, Mr. Johannes de Laet, for himself as well as in the name and on the behalf of and as attorney for his sisters and brothers, and Jacomo Wessels for himself as well as attorney for his mother, brothers and sisters, and Toussaint Moussart, plaintiffs on the one side, and Wouter Va…

aforesaid, and its appurtenances possessed by the above named Kiliaen van Renselaer, deceased, in his lifetime, and by the defendants, qiiuUtate qud, after his death, as weW as of ail its fruits, avails, profits and emoluments by them respectively had and enjoyed and to tender and pay ; to each of the four plaintiffs one just tenth part of whatever the defendants shall be found, by balance, to be…

his equals and partners in the aforesaid Colonie, except simply the title of Patroon, provided always, that the management of the aforesaid Colonie shall consist, according to the aforesaid agreement, of four persons or votes, to wit, the defendants presenting two votes, and the aforesaid Blommaert or Moussart one vote, and the heirs of Johannes de Laet, deceased, or the widow and heirs of Adam We…

I, the undersigned, have removed from the office of their High Mightinesses' Secretary, the bag of papers of the Guardians of the minor son of Kiliaen van Rensselaer, defendants against Samuel Blommert cum sociis, plaintiffs. Done the 7"" October, 1650. Henrice Bernantz. Resolution of the States General granting Letters of Protection to Cornells Melyn. [ From the Eegiater of West India Affairs, …

And the letters of protection aforesaid shall remain in force and be valid so long as the suit which the abovenamed Petitioner hath instituted against the abovenamed Director Stuivesant shall remain pending and undetermined before their High Mightinesses here. Letter of Protection in favor of Cornells Melyn. [ From the Acte-Boek of the Stales General, in the Eojal Archives at the Hague. ] Lette…

And whereas the aforesaid suit is not yet terminated and the actual circumstances of the petitioner do not by any means admit of his longer sojourn in this country, Therefore, We, after previous deliberation, have granted and accorded, as We do hereby grant and accord unto him, safe conduct and passport to repair freely from this country back again to New Netherland aforesaid, the abovementioned s…

Wherefore We order and command all and every person being in our service and under our obedience, whom this may in any wise concern, either in this country, on the passage, or in New Netherland, and especially the abovenamed Stuyvesant and his Council that they shall cause and allow the abovenamed petitioner to enjoy the full effect hereof, and accordingly, not to molest him in his person nor …

After previous deliberation, it is hereby resolved and concluded, to request and authorize Mess" van Aertsbergen and the other, their High Mightinesses' deputies for the affairs of the West India Company, to take the trouble to cause Secretary Cornelis van Tienhoven, at present here, to be heard and examined by M"^ Hariiian van Zuylen van Nyevelt, in their presence and that of some of the Director…

Points and articles to which the High and Mighty Lords States General, or their deputies should instruct, and consequently order and command Secretary Cornelis van Tienhoven to render categorical answers. Exhibited 21 July, 1650. 1. Can he, Cornelis van Tienhoven, understand and speak the Indian language? 2. Was he not usually employed in Director Kieft's time, as the medium through whom c…

Did he not go thither with a party of armed soldiers and sailors, under the command of Hendrick Gerritsen, skipper of the Neptunus? By whose order, and with what result was he there ; and was not the supercargo of the Neptunus, named Ross, killed by the Indians in that expedition ? 10. Did not the Raritans, in the course of the following year, avenge themselves at Staten Island, by killing four…

Was any proposal made to the 12 men by, or in the name of Director Kieft, to commence, on account of that murder, a war against those Indians? 16. Did not the Twelve men advise not to commence a war on account of the murder committed on the aforesaid wheelwright? 17. Did not Director Kieft subsequently forbid the Twelve men to hold any more meetings, saying they were of dangerous tendency, inj…

If not, why did he use the name of all the people ? 22. Was not the petition signed by all those who requested him to draw it up ? If not, why did he not permit all to sign it? 23. Let him state the names of those who requested him to draw up said petition ; especially, if they were not Maryn Adriaensen, Jan Claessen Damen and Abraham Planck? 24. What relationship exists between him, Tienhov…

How many tribes were there at that time and what report did he make of them to the Director"? 29. Had not the Indians at that time fled there from the Maykanders, their enemies, in the hope of being protected by our people? 30. Was not a mysterious toast drank at an entertainment at the house of Jan Damen, by some few, though not by all then present, without the major part having been aware wh…

Did not both these expeditions attack, shoot and slay in their sleep a large number of these Indians with their wives and children, including even innocent sucklings, and set fire to their huts? 34. Had the Dutch residing at the Flat land any warning to be on their guard? 35. Did the people, especially those dwelling at the Flat land, not immediately express dissatisfaction at this sudden and …

Did not the soldiers, in cold blood, and before all the world, cut and stab with knives, one of the two Indian prisoners at the guard-house who had been brought from Heemstede, and were not living slices cut from the other's body, and whilst he was still alive, were not his privy parts cut off in the Beaver's path where they afterwards cut off his head? 41, Were not Kieft and La Montagne also pr…

How many Indians and how many Christians lost their lives in this war? 4S. Did not Director Kieft endeavor to throw the responsibility of this war on the people, especially on the petitioners ? 49. Did not Maryn Adriaenssen, an old freebooter and one of the abovementioned petitioners, endeavor to shoot Kieft with a pistol, which he presented at his breast, for the very reason that he, Kieft, a…

Did not Jan Damen also tell Kieft to his face and in the presence of the Eight men and of him, the Secretary, that he was not a cause of the war, and that he had signed the petition through Kieft's misrepresentation, which declaration was made when the other seven Select men refused to sit with him ? 54. Did not Jan Damen at the time state in public, that Kieft had suggested to him under a myste…

Proposals of the Honorable Director and Council to the Commonalty. First. Is it not right and proper to punish the scandalous murder lately perpetrated by a savage on Claes Swits ; and in case the Indians do not surrender the murderer to our demand is it not right to destroy the whole village to which he belongs? Secondly. In what manner and at what time should it be done? Thirdly. By whom shall …

And that a friendly traffic be carried, in the meantime, yea, until the maize trade be over, and until an opportunity and God's will be made manifest; also, that no one, be his rank what it may, commit any hostility on land or water, against the Indians, the murderer excepted meanwhile, let every one be on his guard; that when the Indians are out hunting ; we shall divide ourselves into two part…

Finally, for the purpose of lulling the suspicions of the Indians without using any threats, we consider it prudent that the Director send a sloop again 1. 2. (jL 3 times, peaceably to demand the murderer, in order then to put him to death. The Commonalty have, moreover, chosen the undernamed twelve persons, and empowered them to resolve on everything with the Director and Council they also took t…

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 understandin…

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. A…

Wherefore, we hereby authorize and empower Maryn Adriaensen, on his petition, to attack with his company a party of Indians lying behind Curler's Hook or plantation, and to act with them as they shall find expedient, as time and circumstances will permit. Done 25'" February, 1643. Petition of the Inhabitants of Long Island. We, the undersigned, inhabitants and subjects residing on Long Island, u…

Request with all humble submission -- whereas, a short time ago the scum' of this place, which is justly called our fatherland, hath revolted against the righteous side, our common friends; and whereas, we see their preparation for hostilities tending to the ruin and destruction of the inhabitants there who are under the necessity of earning, by steady labor, in fields and woods, food and support…

We cannot at present resolve to attack the Indians at Mareckkawich, as they have not given us hitherto any provocation, and as it would draw down an unrigliteous war on our heads, especially as we are assured that they would be on their guard and hard to beat, and apparently excite more enemies, and be productive of much injury to us, whilst we trust that it will, through God's mercy, now result i…

Your High Mightinesses' deputies for the affairs of the West India Company, having examined the petition and papers thereunto annexed, delivered in by Cornells Melyn, and being instructed to extract therefrom the matter for consideration, have reported that the points therein set forth are of two sorts : private and public. The private points consist in the suing and prosecuting of a Mandamus on a…

The inquiry as to the cause, the authors and management of the aforesaid bloody and ruinous war is considered by your High Mightinesses' Deputies and the associate Directors, to be necessary and essential, and with this view, that the aforesaid Cornelis van Tienhoven be ordered not to depart for New Netherland until he shall be heard in the matter aforesaid on certain interrogatories committed for…

^1? d° ^"'^ ^'"'" ^'^^ articles respecting the war in New Netherland, submitted and exhibited to their High Mightinesses on the day aforesaid it is, after previous deliberation, ; resolved and concluded that copy of aforesaid points and articles be furnished, at his own expense, to the aforenamed Secretary Cornelis van Tienhoven, who shall be obliged to answer and file his reply thereunto with…

Respect for that and for your High Mightinesses' sovereign authority obliges and induces us to observe your High Mightinesses' orders in regard of the other, Rendering unto your ,High Mightinesses' letters full credit and obedience; meanwhile the returned Remonstrants bring with them, as they report and also exhibit to strangers, an authentic copy of the signed resolution of your High Mightinesses…

We can therefore object nothing against the accusation presented by our inveterate opponents, who, we understand, are many and powerful, but a reply in the negative, together with an humble prayer that our secret accusers may appear personally before your High Mightinesses with their suborned witnesses, in order to convict us, in the usual course of law to our shame, disgrace and confusion, or in …

Nevertheless your High Mightinesses' good intention shall serve us, in these and other commands, as a rule to govern ourselves under them with patience and obedience until the Almighty grant another result. Your High Mightinesses' commands regarding the exportation of cattle shall be observed as far as possible, but time will determine whether it will not create disgust among the English people re…

Herewith, Right Honorable, High and Mighty Lords, we commend you to the grace and favor of the Most High, and shall be and remain. Your High Mightinesses' obedient and faithful servant. Dated Manhatans, In Fort Amsterdam, (Signed) P. Stuyvesant. in New iNetherland, this l?"- August, 1G50. Addressed as follows Noble, High and Mighty Lords, the Noble Lords States General of the United Netherlan…

Our associates, Jacob van Couwenhoven and Jan Everts Bout, who were delegated last year, 1649, to your High Mightinesses, by our Assembly, in consequence of the extremely urgent necessity of tiie poor distressed people of this country, returned here, through God's mercy, on the 28"" June, bringing with them an authentic copy of the Report, or Provisional Order, drawn up and submitted to your High …

And perceiving that the Redress has not yet arrived, and that your High Mightinesses' letters have been handed, on said 28"" June, by our aforesaid associates to Director General Stuyvesant and Council, who are pleased, as yet, not to obey your High Mightinesses' said order, except only in proclaiming Peace with the King of Spain, which iiath been done here at the Manhatans but nowhere else, to ou…

Hoping, therefore, that it will soon arrive to comfort and console us, we, in conclusion, shall commend you, High and Mighty, generally and individually, and your prosperous and good government to God's protection, remaining your High Mightinesses' most humble and most faithful subjects, (Signed) Augustin Hermans. Magchiel Jans. Jacob van Kouwenhoven. Thomas Holl. Elbert Elbertsen. Oloff Stevens.…

Herewith were, likewise, exhibited two sealed private letters addressed from said country to M' van Aertsbergen, at present absent, and to other their High Mightinesses' deputies. Whereupon deliberation being had, it is resolved and concluded that the aforesaid remonstrance, with said public and private letters be placed, altogether, in the hands of Mess" Huygens, and other their High Mightinesses…

In order to present the Answer succinctly he. Van Tienhoven, will allege not only how illy it becomes the said Van der Donck and other private inhabitants to challenge and abuse, in such harsh and general terms, the administration both of the Directors in this country and of their officers yonder; and that they would have performed their duty much better, had they first submitted to their Lords an…

Tlie Company's order to act on the defensive was better and more prudent than to have recourse to hostilities, inasmuch as it had not the force to resist its hypocritical friends, and coujd^prolect its rights only by protest. Trade has long since been opened to every one and is as profitable as ever; no property has been confiscated except of those who violated their contract or the order whereunt…

and more advance over and above first cost, assurance, duty, laborers' wages, freight &c., all which are added to the first cost. 'Tis evident these people accuse the Board of Directors audits officers of the very fault they themselves commit, and never will they prove that the Company had sold goods, during the time, it kept its store and magazines stocked there, at an advance of more than fifty…

But in regard to the refusal of appeal to Fatherland, it arose from the circumstance that the Island of the Manhatans was reserved, in the Exemptions, as the Capital of New Netherland, and that allthe Colonies round about should bring their appeal to it, as the Supreme Court of that quarter. 'Tis to be, moreover, borne in mind that the Patroon of the Colonie Renselaerwyck causes all his tenants t…

If the people require institutions as above stated, they must contribute towards them as is the custom in this country; and were there Asylums for orphans and the aged there, revenues would be necessary, not only to keep the houses in repair, but to support the orphans and the aged people. The Remonstrants will, if any one can, be likely to prove that money, or real or personal property has been b…

424 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. funds. The Director busy providing materials. Meanwhile a place has been selected for is a School, of which Jan Cornelissen has charge. The other teachers keep school in hired houses, so that the youth are not in want of schools to the extent of the circumstances of the country. 'Tis true there is no Latin school nor academy; if the Commonalty require such, th…

Director Kieft, being at a loss for money, had a box suspended in his house ; of that box the deacons had one key, and all the small fines and penalties which were levied on court days, were deposited in it. He opened it with the knowledge of the deacons, and took on interest the money, which amounted to a handsome sum. 'Tis admitted that the Excise on beer was imposed by Willem Kieft, and that o…

In New England there is no impost or duty on imports or exports, but every one is assessed by the local government according to his means, and must pay to the extent of his property and as the magistrates tax him, for Building and repairing of Churches ; Support of Ministers Erection of Schools and Salary of Teachers ; All city and town improvements; Construction and repair of all highways an…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 425 that the Commonalty have to pay so much, but that of the traders, who charge 1. 2 and 3 hundred advance ; and the people must submit, because there are few merchants. It can, neither now nor hereafter, be shown that 30,000 guilders a year have been collected from the Commonalty in Stuy vesant's time ; for nothing was received but the beer and wine excise, which, at the Ma…

In regard to the letters of manumission which the Director was so good as to grant to the Negroes who had been the Company's slaves : They were set free in return for their long service, on condition that the children remain slaves ; these are treated the same as Christians; at present there are no more than three of these children in service ; one at the House of the Hope one at the Company's bou…

The reason for not prohibiting unstringed wampum was, because no money was in circulation, and mechanics, farmers and the rest of the Commonalty, having no other currency, would suffer serious loss ; and had it been cried down, doubtless the Remonstrants would have booked the circumstance among the rest of their grievances. No one will prove that Directoror Stuyvesant hath berated as rascals, or m…

from the Indians without double as much being given in return; for these people being very covetous, throw a herring in order to catch a cod; as every one acquainted with the Indians can testify. Francis Douthay, Adriaen van der Donck's father-in-law and an English Minister, was granted a colonic at Mespacht, not for himself alone as Patroon, but for him and his associates whose Agent he was, and …

And as the English did not afford him a sufficient support, two collections were taken up among the Dutch and English, on which he lived at the Manhatans. The Mespacht Colonie was never confiscated ; that is proved by the actual residence on it of the owners, who had an Interest in it as well as Douthey ; bat as the latter wished to obstruct its settlement and to permit no one to build in the colo…

I have treated already of the appeal. No clauses conflicting with the Exemptions are inserted in the patents; but the phrase '• 7ioch teheramen" [hereafter to be imposed] -- can be omitted from them, if found objectionable. Stuyvesant hath never pleaded any causes in court, but spoke and proposed questions to parties, as president, and, with advice of the Council, administered justice whereof the…

on the Exemptions where that Island is established as the Supreme Court of all the circumjacent Colonies, and on the fact that no precedent existed of their High Mightinesses' having ever received those in appeal who, coming from New Netherland, had applied for that purpose here -- viz'. Hendrick Jansen the tailor, Laurens Cornelissen and several others, who were banished many years ago from N…

Francis Douthey, the English minister, hath never been employed by the Company, wherefore it owes him nothing; but his English congregation is bound to pay him, as can be proved in New Netherland. The Company has advanced to the said minister from time to time, in goods and necessaries, to the amount of about fl.UOO., as the colonial account books might show ; this he has not yet paid, and he comp…

This was provisionally only, and until further order. 'Tis to be observed in this place, that the Director dreading one of two evils, permitted some arms to be bartered in the Fort in order to preserve the Colonie from danger. Neither will any one prove that the Director hath sold, or allowed the sale of, any articles of contraband on his own private account. The seizure of some guns by leave of t…

These guns were transferred to Commissary Keyser with instructions to sell them to the Dutch who were unprovided with arms, so that they might, in the hour of need, 428 NEW- YORK COLONIAL MANUSCRIPTS. have wherewith to defend themselves. If there v^ere any more guns in the ship, 'twas without the Director's knowledge. The Fiscal whose business it was, should have seen to it, and inspect the vess…

contained in letters written to his partner long ere this transaction came to light, and by the information of the corporal. Seduced by Jacob Reynties' solicitation, the corporal sold him arms as often as he applied for them, though the former was well aware that the guns and barrels were the property of the Company and not of the corporal. A parcel of peltries was therefore confiscated, as may be…

Commissioners endeavored to induce the English to restore the fugitives according to a previous agreement entered into with Governors Eton' and Hopkins.^ But as the former declined to surrender the runaways to us, although earnestly solicited so to do, the Director and Council, pursuant to a previous resolution, issued a proclamation, by way of retaliation, to the effect that all persons who shoul…

He was one of the founders of New Haven in 16X8, and was annually elected Governor till his death, Jan. 7, 1657, aged 66. AUtn. ' Edward Hopkins, Governor of Connecticut, and a benefactor of Harvard College, was an eminent merchant in London, and arrived at Boston in the summer of 1637 and soon removed to Connecticut. He was chosen a magistrate in 1639, and Governor of Connecticut every other ye…

All those who were indebted to the Company were notified to pay up the debts left uncollected by the late Willem Kieft, and as some could, and others could not pay, no one was constrained to liquidate their account but this debt, amounting to about fl.30,000, ; rendered many who were disinclined to pay, insolent and illdisposed, especially as the Company had, now, nothing to sell in that country…

A duty of eight per cent on exported beavers, which falls, not on the colonist, but on the merchant, who is bound to pay it, according to contract. The Director always manifested a desire, and was pleased to see a delegation, from the Commonalty, which should seek in Fatherland from the Company, as Patroons, and the Lords States, as Sovereigns, the following, viz': Population ; settlement of boun…

This statement is untrue, as appears by the propositions submitted to them. 'Tis worthy of remark here, however, that the English residing under the protection of the Dutch, have taken an oath of fidelity, and are domiciliated and settled in New Netherland ; they are therefore to be accounted fellow citizens of the country, which these persons have always opposed, because the English would, as wel…

Verdonck and his colleagues say, that the Director had instituted personal actions against some. The Director arriving at the house of one Michiel Jansen, a co-signer of the Remonstrance, was notified by said Michiel and by Thomas Hall, saying: -- " A scandalous Journal of Adriaen van der Donck is within there." The Director took this Journal away with him, and on account of the calumnies and asp…

The publication and posting of a notice in Kieft's and Stuyvesant's administrations, to the effect that no declaration or other public writing should have any legal force in New Netherland, except written by the Secretary, did not proceed from any design to prevent the preparation of evidence, but from this consideration: -- Those living in New Netherland are, for the most part, country people an…

The Company conveyed thither, at its own expense, cattle and a number of people built ; many persons who, on arriving from Holland, were poor and in distress, a fortress, succored and furnished them with clothing and provisions, and now that some of them possess a little more than they can consume in a day, they would fain be released from the authority of their benefactors; and, if possible, eve…

Divine service will not be interrupted, by the absence of D^ Johannes Backerus, who, however, has been there only 27 months. The place is again supplied with a learned and godly clergyman, who requires no interpreter when defending the Reformed Religion against any minister of our neighbors, the English Brownists. The preceding are, in fact, the points requiring any answer. We shall add thereunto …

Jacob van Couwenhoven having, when a lad, accompanied his father to that country, was taken by Wouter van Twiller into the Company's service as an assistant, and becoming afterwards a tobacco planter, the Company helped him, as is to be seen by the books, with necessaries; but they have been paid for. Olof Stevensen, brother-in-law of Govert Loockermans, went out in the year 1637, in the ship the …

He was to have come hither, but accounts not being settledbetween him and the Colonie, as he has a claim which the partners do not admit, Jan Evertsen came over in his stead. Thomas Hall came to the South river in 1635, in the service of an Englishman named Mr. Homs, who intended at the time to rob us of the South river of New Netherland, including fort Nassouw, and ran away from his master there;…

Martyn; was taken by Wouter van Twiller into the Company's service having realized some profit in it, he became a freeman, and finally took ; charge of the trade of Giliis Verbruggen and company, in New Netherland. This Loockmans ought to show his gratitude to the Company, under God, for his prosperity, and not plot to deprive it of the country. Hendrick Kip is a tailor, and has never suffered a…

In fine, these people, glozing over their acts, say they are bound by oath and obliged by conscience had this any force, they would not thus assail the Company and others, their ; but, benefactors, nor seek to strip them of this noble country by advising a conveyance of it, now that it begins to assume some shape; promises to make the Company some return, and when many of the colonists find thems…

As regards New Netherland, they are of opinion that the trade ought to be encouraged with the same freedoms, and the charges thereon ought to be on the same footing, as in New HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 438 England and that all possible means ought to be taken to place the fisheries on the Coast on ; an equality with those of Newfoundland, with liberty to transport the fish either to Brazil or else…

Resolution of the States General on the Reco7'ds of the India Companies. [From the Ecgister of West India Affairs, 1638 -- 1651, in the Eoyal Archives at the Hague.] Saturday, 14"" January, 1651. Foiio62T. On motion of Secretary Ruysch, it is, on deliberation, resolved and concluded Motion ot Secretary that their High Mightlncsses' Resolutious respecting the East and West India Eesoiution of the…

their High Mightinesses' resolution of the 9"" August, of said year, to answer and enter his reply thereunto, within the space of eight days after the receipt and service hereof; and meanwhile to remain here at the Hague, without leaving. Done at the Hague aforesaid, 7 February, 1651. By order of the aforesaid Lords, their High Mightinesses' Deputies. Resulutlon of the States General summoning Se…

And said Tienoven, on coming here, shall be summoned and notified promptly to answer before the said Deputies the interrogatories heretofore communicated to him. And this their High Miglninesses' resolution, as well as the letters consequent thereon, shall be dispatched and sent off witliout reconsideration. States General to the Chamber of the West India Company at Amsterdam. [From the Register…

[ From (he Register of West India Affairs, 168S -- 1651, in (he Royal Archives ot the Uaguo. ] Tuesday, 21 March 1651. Folio 660. Received a letter from the Directors of the Incorporated West India Company Chamber at Amster- ^^ ^^^ Chamber at Amsterdam dated 2S"" instant, being an answer to their High Damenand letter of the ll"" of this month, to the effect that Jan Jans' Damen Mightinesscs' …

Harman '*"' hoven"'' van Zuylen van Nyevelt, setting forth in substance that Secretary Cornelis van Tienhoven did intend to leave for New Netherland, and praying that the same may be prevented, New Netherland. being read to the Assembly; it is, upon deliberation resolved and concluded that the Chamber of the West India Company shall be again requested to detain the abovenamed Tienhoven and not al…

Thienhoven is intending to proceed on an early day to New Netherland, we have resolved to request and require you hereby again to detain said Thienhoven and not to allow him to depart, and for that purpose you will write to the skipper of the Ship the Waler/ionl not to receive the abovenamed Thienhoven before and until he hath received and exhibited our consent to his departure. Done 21^' Apri…

This trade was formerly prosecuted by all nations freely and unincumbered, and notwithstanding the inhabitants of the aforesaid places and islands, have, by means of our supplies and liberal credits, had the opportunity to improve and advance their Colonies to their incalculable advantage, and to such a flourishing state, yet an attempt is now being made, regardless of what we have contributed to …

High and Mighty, with due reverence, humbly praying your High Mightinesses to be pleased to take into serious consideration, this matter, which is of such importance and advantage to this state, so that they may not only be freed from the rigor of the aforesaid proclamation, but be also maintained and continued in the privilege of trading to the abovementioned islands and places; and to be pleased…

HOLLAND DOCUMENTS: V. 437 sorts of eastern commodities, as from Virginia, beavers and otiier eastern furs, considerable tobacco, and from tiie Caribbean islands a large quantity of sugars, tobacco, indigo, ginger, cotton, and divers sorts of valuable wood, affording extensive trade by the exportation of said wares to countries and places far and near; contributing to the support of several thousan…

M' Veth, president of the Assembly, hath suggested to their High Mightinesses England. whether Mess" the Ambassadors Extraordinary, proceeding hence to England, ought not to be recommended by further and express resolution, to endeavor, by all possible Trade to the carib- meaus and appHanccs, that the inhabitants of this country may resort to, and trade J J b.>an Islands and with the Caribbean i…

Memorial of Adriaen van der Donck. [ From ihe MS. In the Boyal Archives at the Hague ; Loketkas of the Slates General ; Division, West IndtMcIie Oompaffiti^ No. 86. ] To the High and Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherland Provinces. The SLUM General Adriaen Van der DoHck, agentof ° the Commonalty of New Netherland, represents •' "^ of the United Nelh- "po" respectfully, to your H…

But with grief, regret and sorrowful eyes must they witness and behold that, to the country's ruin and their own exceeding great damage and derangement, Stuyvesant, Director in New Netherland, and a few French and English Councillors, appointed neither by your High Mightinesses nor by the Hon"" West India Company, but by him, the Director, according to his own pleasure, in opposition to the protes…

The guns which were sent over, are not stamped and distributed according to order, but the Director first took possession of all of them, sold some of them to the Indians or Natives of the country, and refused to leave the remainder at the disposal of Jacob van Couwenhoven thereunto qualified by your High Mightinesses' resolution dated ll"" April, 1650, so that the whole affair has got into confu…

Vice Director Lubbert van Dlncklage has in the presence and before the eyes of Director Stuyvesant been forcibly removed by soldiers from the Court vphere he sat as joint Judge, and was for several days confined in the military guard-house, after which he was not suffered to go unmolested, but finally deposed without your High Mightinesses' knowledge, though appointed and qualified by your High Mi…

And Secretary Tienhoven, who was accused and proved before your High Mightinesses, to have been the chief cause of the cruel, injurious, unnecessary and even provoked \^geoffecleerde'] war with the natives of New Netherland who was sent hither by Director Stuyvesant to defend his causes pending before your High Mightinesses, with which, however, he gave himself little or no trouble, having, in the…

Your High Mightinesses will clearly see from all this and from the annexed petition of the people to you, High and Mighty, and from the protest of the Vice Director and Fiscal who, with the Select men constituted in that country the Magistracy on behalf of your High Mightinesses and the Hon'''* West India Company up to the present time, that everything in that quarter goes on contrary to your High…

Since the Select men and the Magistracy are dismissed contrary to your High Mightir commands, and contrary to all right and reason, we again humbly pray and request that they be, in conformity with your High Mightinesses' granted order, again commissioned and that they continue until further directions from your High Mightinesses ; also, that your High Mightinesses would be pleased to confirm by r…

And as no demand was made by the aforesaid on your High Mightinesses for money, as in the case of the redress of Brazil, but merely an order of government and maintenance against violent infraction of privileges granted to the people and Colonists of New Netherland; so the said delegate of the Commonalty of New Netherland again humbly prays and requests your High Mightinesses to be pleased to disp…

The sorrowful and utterly prostrate condition of this country and its poor inhabitants, have we been obliged to make known, in their name, to your illustrious High Mightinesses, last year, 1C49, by our committee and delegates, truly and plainly, according to our ability. Your High Mightinesses' condescension in listening to our sad and truthful complaints was a source of exceeding great joy to us …

We shall expect with great confidence to receive next year from your High Mightinesses, the effect of our tendered duties, as our service for the Commonalty expires according to our commission and instruction on next New year's day, and the Director, not obeying your High Mightinesses' order, gives out that he will not act on our nomination of other Select men to be elected in place of the six who…

The Hon'''* Mess" Lubbertus van Dincklage, Vice-Director, and Henricus van Dyck, Advocate-Fiscal of New Netherland, declaring, in form of complaint, that Director Petrus Stuyvesant said, in substance, on the fourth of July last, in full court, that the Directors of the General Incorporated West India Company had notified him not to communicate to us any general letter either of their Honors, of th…

the ship's stores independent of us ; that his Honor, likewise without us, appointed and commissioned, as Lieutenant of a company of soldiers consisting of 23 men, an Englishman named Brian Nuton, who does not understand the Dutch language, and pronounces judgment, with his Honor, on political and all other matters. Item, he retains, as councillor, a Frenchman named La Montague, on like footing, w…

under the necessity of ignoring all those occurrences and the mischiefs which are impending over the country, and expressly to protest before their High Mightinesses, his Highness, the Hon*"'' West India Company and the entire world, holding ourselves pure, clear and innocent consenting that record hereof be made by me. Notary, and delivered in due form, in order to be used as shall be deemed advi…

Folio Mess" Capelle tho Ryssel and 4, The States General of the United Netherother, your High Mightinesses' deputies, have lands having looked through, examined and reported, that pursuant to resolution of the weighed annexed points, have, after the 10"" of this current month, they examined the previous deliberation, by resolution declared remonstrance and papers submitted by Adriaen as is affix…

Hands in, also, a pro- the complaints. test of the Deputy or Vice-Director Lubbert van Dincklage and Hendrick van Dyck, Advocate-fiscal of New Netherland, dated lO"" December, 1650, against these excesses of Director Stuyvesant. States that Director Stuyvesant hath agreed The Petitioner shall have to make a draft on a boundary with the English, subject to of the old boundary line of New Netherlan…

the Directors, may be converted into a resolu- further resolved to send a copy of it to the tion. respective Chambers of the West India Company, with order to communicate their considerations thereon, at the earliest moment. The delegate requests that he may be When final disposition shall be made of the discharged, in order to his return to New 5"" article, due regard shall be taken for the N…

You will learn from our letter to the Noble Mighty Lords their High Mightinesses' deputies on the affairs of New Netherland, the time of our arrival here and in what condition we found the Board and the Commonalty. The people are greatly imposed on ; men will fain hang and burn the Select men, and moreover, whilst duly observing our honor and oath, &c. The affliction in which the poor Commonalty h…

The Director hath seized three ships, because he will have from each one hundred pounds of powder, harbor duty; though neither Mr. Dincklagen nor the Fiscal knows anything of it, nor was it determined on in Council, yet he will have it by force ; but Vastrick and Bloemert are gone free, or are paid for it. It appears that the Company backs him up strongly. I had, indeed, brought a flag with me for…

For the rest, we and others who mean well, are aware and will yet find (God help us) that we have done harm ; shall be eventually ruined and run aground, if the Redress do not arrive speedily. Extract from an authentic copy of a letter from Vice Director Dincklage to the Hon*"'^ Directors of the Amsterdam Chamber, dated the S"" Septemb'' 1650. I have already addressed two letters to your Honors…