Brodhead, John Romeyn. History of the State of New York, Vol. I (1609-1691). New York: Harper & Brothers, 1853.

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 accorCommissioners shall, each …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

[ 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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

[ 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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

* 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 …

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 …

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 …

" 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 …

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,^ …

' 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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

' 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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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) …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 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 …

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 …