The Governour Don Francis Tello, to attend other Neighbouring D. Francis Tello neglects the Moluccos. Provinces, where greater Commotions were threatned, turn’d his Arms that Way; sending some inconsiderable Part, at several Times to the Moluccos; for he never went seriously about recovering those Islands, either because he apprehended, or had Intelligence of Dangers threatned by the haughty Japoneses, Mindanaos, and Chineses, or that he would not tread in the Track of those who ruin’d themselves in the Expeditions against Ternate. Yet our Men fought that Nation in other Parts; for being the most Warlike, and averse to the very Name of Spaniards, it never let pass any Opportunity of doing them Harm.

We have already mention’d the first coming of the English into those Seas, and the Care that was taken to obliterate the Example set by their Voyage, by fortifying the Streights of Magellan. It could not be effected, nor did our Fleet succeed in punishing, as was intended, those who had the Boldness to attempt that unthought-of Passage. Since then, the Hollanders Dutch at the Moluccos. and Zealanders, supported by Rebellion and Disobedience, have sail’d into India, possess’d themselves of strong Holds, and erected Factories, transporting the Drugs, Precious Stones and Silks of Asia; and what is worse, possessing themselves of several Places, and rending the Spanish Monarchy. They have made several Voyages. What Island have they not pry’d into? What Barbarous Nation have they not encourag’d to Rebellion and Tyranny; especially since Maurice of Nassau is possess’d of those Provinces, by the Title of Governour.

Philippines fill’d with Chineses. The Philippine Islands were now appointed for the Place of Arms, considering the great Delays Experience had shown there were towards Recovering of the Molucco Islands. In the mean while, notwithstanding that Don Francis Tello was warn’d, how pernicious Inhabitants he was like to have in the Sangleyes, or Chineses, by whom the Islands of his Province began to be much peopled and fill’d, yet he allow’d them greater Liberty than was convenient; and the Municipal Laws which provided against this Disorder being forgotten or contemn’d, in a very short Time there were additional Towns of Chineses, Chincheos, and other such like Monsters, who were no better than Pyrates, or Incendiaries in that Country, which ought to have taken sufficient Warning by, and been well provided on Account of past Accidents, to shut up all Passages against such Enemy Nations. Don Francisco excus’d their Resort, alledging, That they imported Abundance of Provisions and Merchandise, which is what usually enriches all Places; That no Men have such a consummate Mechanick Genius as they; That they are more assiduous and constant at the Works and Buildings than the Natives of the Philippines. He said, That all the Jealousy generally conceiv’d of them vanishes, if the Governour administers Justice impartially, and permits no private Cabals. All these are, or appear’d to be frivolous Reasons, without any Force; and the admitting of such an Inundation of those People, prov’d very dangerous, as may be seen in the Sequel of this Work, by what happen’d to the Governour Gomez Perez. It was a particular Providence of Heaven, that other Nations did not go about to League with this, or the Dutch, who have so strongly fix’d themselves in the Archipelago; for they might, without much Difficulty, have given us more Trouble than has been occasion’d by the Rebellion of the Kings of the Moluccos; to whose Country, and all others in India, great Fleets of Dutch resort, ever since the Year 1585, whereof Dutch Writers give an Account, and lay down in Cuts, even the smallest Plants they produce.

It does not belong to us to give an Account of the English, Dutch, or other Nations of India and Asia, or their Expeditions and Voyages; but only such as relate to the Conquest of Ternate and the Molucco Islands, or may have some Dependance on this Subject; but be it known, once for all, that every Year, some Northern Fleets appear’d, coming either thro’ New Streights, still unknown to our Discoverers, or those before frequented and laid down. But before we enter upon this Relation, it seems requisite to say something of Holland, the Head of the Neighbouring Islands, as that which is become most outrageous in India, and most covets the Account of Holland. Moluccos. The province of Holland is almost on all Sides encompass’d by the Sea, and the Ports of the Maese and Rhine, for about 60 Leagues in Compass. Within it are contain’d 29 wall’d Towns, whose Names and Situation does not belong to us to speak of, nor of those of Zealand, or the other Provinces subject to them. The Curious may read Lambert, Hortensius, and Montesortius. The Natives are descended from the Ancient Catti; and forasmuch as Erasmus of Rotterdam, which is in Holland, describes it in his Chiliades, we will abridge what he there delivers at large, out of Affection to his Country. The Learned, say he, agree, and it is a probable Conjecture, that the Island Tacitus mentions, lying from Tacitus l. 20. the Rhine to the Ocean, is that we call Holland; which I am oblig’d to Honour, as owing my first Breath to it; and would to God we could honour it as it deserves. Martial charges it with being rude, or unpolished; and Lucan with Cruelty. Either these Things do not belong to us, but to our Ancestors, or we may value our selves upon them both. What Nation is now known, whose first Fathers were not more uncouth than their Posterity? Or when was Rome more highly commended, than when its People knew no other Arts but Tillage and Warfare? Erasmus spends Time in proving, that it is the Nature of Holland, not to relish Martial’s Wit; and that this is not the Effect of Rudeness, but a Gravity worthy Imitation. Then he makes an Exclamation, saying, Would to God all Christians had Dutch Ears! And that if still any one shall contend, the Nation is in the Wrong, in having stopp’d theirs to all Poetical Delights and Allurements, and arm’d it self against them; the Dutch valu’d themselves upon being comprehended in that Reflection, which did not displease the Ancient Sabines, the Perfect Lacedemonians, and the Severe Catos. Lucan call’d the Batavi, that is the Dutch, Cruel, as Virgil did the Romans, Vehement. Erasmus adds, That the Customs of these Nations Erasmus of the Manners of Hollanders. are Familiar, inclining to Meekness and Benignity, and not to Fierceness; because Nature endow’d them with a sincere Disposition, free from Fraud and Double-Dealing, and did not make them subject to extraordinary Vices, except the Love of Pleasure, and Excess in Entertainments. This is caus’d by the Multitude of Beauties, which are Incentives, by the several Sea-Ports on the Ocean, the Mouths of the two Rivers, Rhine and Maese; the perpetual Felicity of the Soil, water’d by other Navigable Rivers; and the Fish and Foul in the Ponds and Woods. No Province of so small a Compass, contains so many Cities of a considerable Magnitude, and so Populous, excellently govern’d; so full of Commodities, Arts and Trade. It abounds in Men indifferently learn’d. Erasmus himself, in Conclusion, owns that none of them arrives to singular Erudition. This Account, which in all that is natural must be own’d not to exceed, affords Arguments to condemn and convince the Author of it, and the Nation it self. All that Part of the World where Religion and Politeness flourish, is acquainted with the Diversity of Opinions all those Nations espouse, of Protestants, Puritans, Calvinists, these the most Numerous; Huguenots, Lutherans, and all other Sorts, too long to enumerate, and not to our Purpose. Since Erasmus confesses that his Country does not produce any Persons of eminent Learning, why do they take upon them to decide Controversies in Religion? Why do they incroach upon Councils? If they are of such an excellent Disposition, and have such a modest Genius, The Authors Reflections on them. Why do they cast off that Piety, whereof there are such ancient Testimonies in our first Fathers, so much honour’d by the primitive Charity of the true Church? It is true, as Erasmus says, that they are of a kind Temper, but Tenacious of whatsoever they once espouse; the same moves us to pity them the more, for the Difficulty of dealing with Positiveness in Minds that are not given to change. Let no Man believe but that under that seeming Meekness in Behaviour, the highest Degree of Pride lies A Spanish Author cannot forbear these Reflections. couch’d. What greater Pride than to scoff at the most ancient Church? At its Apostolical Traditions? At her universal Agreement? At the Miracles God has wrought, to approve the Catholick Doctrine? And what Error can be more inexcusable, than to follow the New Opinions of unlearned and vicious Men, such as the Arch-Hereticks were; and to live under a Necessity of not laying down their seditious Arms only to defend Impiety grounded on Ignorance, and the Extravagancies of their Passions? What House is there in those Cities which Erasmus extols, wherein all the Inhabitants profess and follow the same Way of spiritual Salvation? When the Father is a Calvinist, the Mother is often a Huguenot, the Son a Lutheran, the Servant a Hussite, and the Daughter a Protestant. All the Family is divided, or rather every particular Person’s Soul is so, and at best doubts of all. Wherein does this differ from Atheism? It is positive Atheism. This Division, unworthy of wild Beasts, is the Occasion, and a Sort of Mathematical Necessity, that these People cannot be united among themselves in true Peace. For those Things are the same to one See the latter part of the Preface. another, that they are to a Third; so that almost all these having different Notions, as to God, they cannot of Necessity be united among themselves, as differing in the most essential Part, which is the having an uniform Notion of God in Religion. Let no Man believe, that because they are not at War among themselves, it is Love that is the Occasion of it. The Ground of their false Tranquility is to be call’d a Cessation, and not Peace. These are the People who have unhing’d Loyalty and the Christian Religion, before settled in the Islands, and remotest Parts of Asia, making Excursions from their own Country, as far as China, their raging Avarice being grounded on the Advice given them by the Queen of England, and on Malice, because King Philip the IId had shut up the other Ports of his Kingdoms against them; so to endeavour to reduce them to the Truth and Submission, by taking from them the Advantages of Trade.

Dutch first sail to the Moluccos. The first Dutch Fleet that came to the Molucco Islands, after the English, in the Year 1598, shall be here spoken of. Some prime Men, for the Sake of their Country, as they said, and to gain Reputation, met in Holland and Zealand, and fitted out six Ships and two Brigantines, to sail into India. The first Ship they call’d the Maurice, the Admiral in her being Jacob Cornelius Neck, born at Roterdam, and the Master Gonaert Jansk; the second was the Amsterdam, and in her the Vice-Admiral Vibrant Darkik; the other Ships were the Holland, the Zealand, the Guelder, and the Utrecht; The bigger Brigantine the Friezland, and the smaller the Overissel. They carry’d 160 Soldiers, besides Mariners, and saild from Roterdam on the 13th of March. Off from Sluys, on the 4th of April, they had such a dreadful Storm, as might have discourag’d them from Proceeding, and the Ship the Holland was almost disabled; but still they were drove on by the Weather to the Texel, and thence to Debenter, and in Conclusion they got into the Ocean. They met another Ship returning to the Low Countries, which presented them with 10000 Oranges, and having distributed them among the Men, they made a general Rejoycing, for the baptizing of 25 Men, aboard the Ship the Guelder, on the 10th of May. Barrels must be a Mistake. On the 11th they anchor’d at Barrels, and on the 15th at the Island Madera, and again on the 17th at the Canaries, Gomera, and Palma, passing by those of Sal and Santiago, which are those of Cabo Verde, they furl’d all their Sails, and drove in a Storm, in 29 Degrees Latitude. On the first of June they took a Sea Tortoise which weigh’d 143 Pounds. On the 15th of the same Month, Gerrit Jans, either provok’d by Wine or a worse Spirit, cast himself into the Sea, from the highest Part of the greater Brigantine. The next Day, aboard the Ship Guelder, in which the new baptised Men were, they saw a large flying-Fish, which clapping too its Wings, Fell into the said Ship; but they saw the same Sort of Fishes fall upon their Vessels at other Times. On the Eighth they cross’d the Line, and began to distribute a Pot of Wine to every six Men; but on the 25th of the same Month, for Joy of having pass’d the Ridges of Rocks before Brazil, which run to the Southward in 18 Degrees of South Latitude, they allow’d three Pots to every seven Men. Such a thick Fog fell that they lost Sight of the smaller Brigantine; the Zealand soon found her again, and discover’d many Cranes standing on the Tops of the Reeds, or Canes, that grew out Tall and of an equal Height above the Water. On the 24th of July, they came to an Anchor at the Cape of Good Hope, whence they sail’d again on the 15th of August with Stormy Weather, all the eight Vessels together, the Sea there boiling up as a Pot does upon The Sea seems to boil up. the Fire. This Motion, like boiling, was seen for about a Musket Shot in Length, and the Breadth of a Ship, and all this Space was cover’d thick with Weeds, which they pass’d over by main Force, without any Danger.

Madagascar. On the 24th they reach’d the Island of Madagascar, or of S. Laurence, and saw abundance of Whales. Here the plentiful Distribution of Wine ceas’d, and it began to be given out more sparingly, to lament by this Abstinence, the Death of John Pomer, a skilful Sailor. On the 27th they pass’d Cape S. Sebastian, and on the 30th Cape S. Julian. On the 4th of September, it was debated whether they should make for the Island of Banda, or put into the Bay of Anton Gill. They came to no Resolution at that Time, tho’ they afterwards arriv’d separately at Banda, and at several Times. On the 17th they discover’d, at a great Distance, the Island of Cerne, by others call’d the Isle of Swans, which is high and mountainous, and for Joy of the Water they expected to take in there, they gave every Man three Cups of Wine. Before that, the Vice-Admiral went ashore with five Men, in another little Island, and taking a View of it, found a Noble Spacious Harbour, well land-lock’d, into which a Rivulet of fresh They land in a small Island. Water fell. They put in and refitted their shatter’d Vessels, finding 14 Fathom Water. They had not Landed in four Months, and therefore in Thanksgiving, and because it was then Fair Time in Holland, they made a Sort of Chappel; on the Bodies of Trees, and covering it with Leaves, preach’d there twice a Day, in Honour of the Fair. They eat Abundance of Fowl, which they could almost take with their Hands, and drank Wine more plentifully. A Native of Madagascar, who came along with them, and had been taken in a former Voyage, was, by the Instruction of those Sermons, made a Christian, and baptiz’d, taking the Name of Laurence. They found no Inhabitants in the Island though it was Delightful.

Clear Water in the Sea. On the 28th and 29th, they observ’d they were upon a very Christalline Water, without any other Tokens of their being near Land, and those same Days at Noon, they had the Sun in the Zenith, directly over their Heads, which had happen’d to them at other Times. Here a Storm separated the Ships; the Maurice, which was Admiral, by them in Latin call’d PrÆtoria, the Holland, and the Overissel, tho’ they endeavour’d to Cerne Island. make Java, were drove by Stress of Weather to Banda; and the other five to the Island Cerne, or of Swans, leaving six other smaller on the Right Hand. They enter’d the Port with ten Fathom Water, between two Mountains, which contract the Mouth of it. The Situation of it is in 21 Degrees of South Latitude, and is five Leagues in Compass. The Port is Spacious enough to contain 50 Ships, and shelter’d against all Winds. They were so well pleas’d with the Island, that they chang’d its ancient Name of Cerne, or of Swans, for that of Maurice, in Honour of Count Maurice of Nassau, Bastard Son to the Prince of Orange, so well known in our Days. Discoverers were sent about it, and return’d without finding any humane Track, nor Signs of any Habitation. They had a doubtful Tame Birds and Beasts. Proof hereof in the Birds and Beasts; for they ran into their Hands and alighted on their Heads, as they might have done on the Branches of Trees, or had they been bred Tame; which Boldness proceeded either from their having never seen Men, or being grown very familiar with them. Strange Bats. Among the rest, there are Bats, which have Heads as big, and like Apes, and these sleep considerable Numbers of them together, and hanging on the Trees, with their Legs and Wings extended. The Air and Soil are so healthy and fit to be inhabited, that as soon as the Sick were landed, they recovered. The Land is high and mountainous, full of Woods, and not being inhabited, there are no Tracts or Paths through them. There Ebony. is an infinite Quantity of Ebony Trees, as black as Pitch, and as smooth as Ivory; the Trunks being cover’d with a rough Bark, preserve the Body solid. There are other Plants, whose Trunks are Red, and others Pale as Wax; delicious Coco-Nuts, vast Numbers of Palm-Trees, and some of them of such Sort, that one of their Leaves covers all a Man’s Body, and defends it against the Rain. They spread their Nets, and among the other Monstrous Thornback. Multitude of Fishes, took a Thornback so large, that it afforded two Meals Tortoises. for all the Men in the Ships. They saw Land Tortoises, so big, that one of them walk’d with four Soldiers sitting on its Back; and ten of them din’d upon the Shell of another, as if it had been a round Table. In a very short Time they kill’d Abundance of Turtle-Doves, and another Sort of Penguins. white Birds, bigger than our Swans, but as round as a Ball, and have only two or three curl’d Feathers in the Tail. There were so many blew Parrots, that they might have loaded their Ships with them. Indian Crows, twice as big as the European, of three several colour’d Feathers.

They erected Forges, dress’d all their Tools, and built another Vessel, to supply the Place of the Utrecht, which with the other two, had directed her Course for Madagascar. They again took a View of their Maurice Island, and towards the Inland Part of it, tho’ there were no Signs of any Wax found with Greek Characters. humane Habitation, found about three hundred Pounds weight of Wax, on which there were plain Greek Letters and Characters. They also saw Oars, Nets, and Pieces of Timber, being the Wreck of Ships. The Vice-Admiral, providing a smooth square Board, carv’d on it the Arms of Holland, Zealand, and Amsterdam, and nail’d it on the Top of a Tree, as a Memorial of his being there, and giving the Name of MAURICE to the island, with this Inscription, which being in Spanish, denotes their Hatred to the Ancient Faith of our Nation, and being couch’d in one Line over their Arms, was, THE REFORM’D CHRISTIANS. Then they plow’d up a large Field, and sow’d it with Wheat, and other European Grain; turning lose some Hens, to see what Improvement they should find another Time. They again, for some Days, visited the Hills and Plains, and found no Track of Man.

Whilst these refresh’d themselves at the Island Cerne, or of Swans, being fourteen Days, the other three Ships arriv’d at S. Mary’s, a barren Island, S. Mary Island. tho’ some Orange and Lemon Trees grow in it, as also Sugar Canes, and there are Hens. About it, and in Sight of Land, there are monstrous Whales. They landed, but not without Opposition from the Natives, with whom they fought, and took their King; but he was easily ransom’d, a Strange Ransom for a King. Cow and a Calf being given them in Exchange for him. They saw the Manner of the Whale Fishery, which is very easy there. The Indians make up close to them in their Canoes, and stick them with a Harping-Iron they dart, being ty’d to Ropes made of the Barks of Trees. They stor’d their Ship with their Flesh and Oil, and some Oranges, and went over to the Bay of Anton Gil, where the Madagascar Indian, would not stay, as he had desired before, being now well affected to the Habit and Drunkenness of his Companions. They were toss’d backwards and forwards for five Days, between certain Islands, destitute of Provisions, and unsafe, by Reason they were in War among themselves.

They set forward with a fair Gale towards Java, and on the 26th of December, 1598, arriv’d at Banda, which is eight Leagues from Amboina. Banda Island. This Island is shap’d like a Horse-shooe, and lies in four Degrees of South Latitude. It is most fruitful, with little or no Improvement, in Nutmegs, and their precious Mace; as also Provisions and Medicines for Men, beyond all other Parts of the known World. It is divided into three Parts, each of them three Leagues in Compass. The Capital City is called Nera. As soon as they arriv’d, they contracted Friendship with the Islanders; tho’ a foreign Ship, to secure the Trade to herself, gave them to understand, that the Dutch were certain Pirates who fled the Year before, and had lain conceal’d at Sea, to come again and rob the Island, and therefore they did not fully credit them. This Notion was back’d by Trading Portugueses, and others settled there; but the Dutch sending their Abdol, that is the Indian Interpreter, with some Soldiers, and Gifts to present the King, according to the Custom of Merchants that come into his Country, they before him clear’d that Imputation, and defended their Innocence. The King was an Infant, and govern’d by his Cephates, that The Dutch settle Trade there. is his Vice-Roy, Tutor, or Protector, who set all right. They gave the King the Present before him, which he receiv’d very graciously. It consisted of certain valuable gilt Vessels, admirably ingrav’d, Christal Glasses, Looking-Glasses in gilt Frames, and Pieces of Velvet and Taffety. They deliver’d him Letters and Commissions of the States of Holland, Zealand, and Count Maurice, with their Seals hanging to them in Form. All was accepted, and they lay down flat on the Ground to receive and read the Letters, with profound Reverence. The King promis’d to answer them, as he did, and immediately gave leave to Trade; whereupon the Dutch built Factories in the Island. They then expos’d in publick Shops great Store of Arms, Silks, Linnen and Cloth; as did the Natives their Spice, China Ware, and Pearls, and other Commodities the Neighbouring Islanders and Chineses bring hither to barter, and sell to one another. Five All their Ships meet again. Weeks after, the other three Ships arriv’d, and the people of the City hearing the Discharges of the Cannon, and seeing the Auncients spread abroad, for Joy of the Ships meeting again, came down to the Port, and encompass’d the Ships in Boats, offering them Plenty of Fowl, Eggs, Coco Nuts, Bananas, Sugar-Canes, and Cakes made of Rice-Flower. This dainty Feeding continu’d every Day, and they gave them a Weeks Provision for a Dutch Man for one Pewter Spoon. However they rais’d the Price of Pepper; but they pay’d for all with Pins and Needles, Knives, Spoons, Looking-Glasses, and little Tabors; and with those same Commodities, they purchas’d more valuable Goods at Sumatra, as also Provisions; when four of these eight Ships return’d Homewards, the others sailing for Ternate and the Moluccos.

The greatest Quantity, and best Commodity they took in here, was of The Nutmeg Tree. are few and weak; but in Banda there is a plentiful Crop, and they have much more Virtue. Nature has cloath’d its Mountains and Plains, with Woods and Groves of these Plants. They are like the European Pear-Trees, and their Fruit resembles Pairs, or rather in Roundness the Melocotones. When the Nutmegs blosom, they spread a cordial Fragrancy; by degrees they lose their Native Green, which is original in all Vegetables; and then succeeds a Blew, intermix’d with Grey, Cherry-Colour, and a pale Gold Colour, as we see in the Rainbow, tho’ not in that regular Division, but in Spots like the Jaspar Stone. Infinite Numbers of Parrots, and other birds of various Plumage, most delightful to behold, come to sit upon the Branches, attracted by the sweet Odour. The Nuts, when dry, cast off the Shell it grows cover’d with, and is the Mace, within which is a white Kernel, not so sharp in Taste as the Nut, and when dry is converted into its Substance. Of this Mace, which is hot and dry in the second Degree, and within the third, the Bandeses make a most Oil of Nutmeg. precious Oil to cure all Distempers in the Nerves, and Aches caus’d by cold. Of these Nuts they choose the freshest, weightiest, fattest, juiciest, Virtues of Nutmeg. and without any Hole. With them they cure, or correct stinking Breath, clear the Eyes, comfort the Stomach, Liver, and Spleen, and digest Meat. They are a Remedy against many other Distempers, and serve to add outward Lustre to the Face. The Bandeses call the Mace of their Aromatick Nuts, Buna Pala. It was not known to the Greeks nor to Pliny, according to Averrois; tho’ Serapion, whether the true, or the suppositious, when he describes it, alledges Gallen’s Authority. It is true, the Chrisabolans he treated of, agree well enough with the Nutmegs in Colour and Shape.

The Javaneses, Chineses, and Natives of the Moluccos resort to the City Mora, to barter for this precious Fruit, and load their Ships with it; and Merchants way of living at Banda. this is the Trade of that People, as is that of Clove to Ternate, Tydore, and the other Moluccos. The Merchants arriving in this Island, many of them contribute to make up a Sum, wherewith they purchase a Woman, to dress their Meat, and attend them. The Dutch did so from this first Time. When they go away she is left Free, till they return the next Year; so that her Slavery commences with the Return of her Masters, and their Absence gives it an Intermission. Some of the Natives are Idolaters; but the greater Part Mahometans, and so superstitious, that the very Soldiers do not mount the Guard, till they have pray’d in the Mosques, so loud, that all Religion of Banda. the Neighbourhood can hear them. Nor must any Man go into them without washing his Feet, in great Vessels of Water, provided at the Door, by the publick. Their Prayers consist in these Words, Estagfer Ai’lah Estagfer Al’lah, Asgiv’d Ai’lahe, Asgiv’d Al’lahe, La Il’lahe Inla Ai’lah, Mu.amed resul At’lahi. When they utter these last Words, they stroke their Faces with their Hands, a Ceremony denoting much Devotion. The Words in English are; Pardon O God, Pardon O God. I prostrate my self to God. I prostrate my self to God. There is no other God but God, and Mahomet his Messenger: By these Words, There is no other God but God, they deny the eneffable Mystery of the most blessed Trinity. Then they proceed to several Blasphemies. They say other Prayers, at which they scarce move their lips; when they do this they stand three and three upon a Mat, lifting up their Eyes to Heaven three Times, and bowing down their Heads to the Ground. The Dutch Author, who gives this Account, does not mention any other Religion in this Island, nor in any of the others their Fleets touch’d at; tho’ it is so well known, that the Catholick Faith of our Lord Jesus Christ has been preach’d many Years before, throughout them all, with the Glory of Martyrdom; but those People conceal it, to what Intent is well known.

The Banaeses assemble in the Streets, and publick Places, where they feast Feasting in Banda. themselves. It is frequent among them to eat in the Temples and Woods, an hundred in a Parcel; especially when they consult together about the publick Weal, or any Danger. There are seven Cities in the Island, which are Enemies to one another. Nera is averse to the Lambethans, Combers and Veierans, and maintains Friendship with the Inhabitants of Lontoor, which is on the other Side of the Island, and those of two other little Cities call’d Poleruija and Poelvay. When they are to fight, they always repair Enmity among their Cities. first to Nera, to concert Affairs. Banda provides their Entertainments on the Ground, in the Streets. The Dishes are made of the Trunks and Leaves of Bananas, and other Plants. Every one has a Piece of Sagu brought him on them, and a Plate of Rice boil’d in the Broth of Flesh. This they devour, carrying it to their Mouths with both Hands, and eat it with such a Relish, as if they had Jove’s Brains dress’d set before them; so the Dutch Relation of Paludanus and Hugo expresses it. Whilst the Meat lasts, till the Multitude are satisfy’d, the Nobles by two and two, take up their Cymiters and Shields, and fight to the sound of Bells, and the Clattering of their Basons. When weary of this Exercise, they deliver the Weapons to others, which continue it. The Cause of their Wars, is for that the Inhabitants of Labetaca, many Years since, set some Plants in the Territory of Nera. The People of this City affronted at this Presumption, made the first War upon them; which is as bloodily prosecuted as if their Religion, or Honour, depended on it. They attack one another by Day and Night in their Territories, and by Sea in their Carcoas.

Banda Tar. In these they do not, like us, fill up the Seams of the Boards with Pitch and Tar, but with Shells of Indian Nuts, which they call Clappos. They pound those Shells and Rhinds, till they became like a Bitumen, or Mass, wherein there remain certain Threads, which resemble Hemp, with this they knit their Seams, and fill up the Crannyes and cover them in such Sort that it resists the Force of the Water. They carry two, and sometimes four Pieces of Cannon. The Men use small Fire-locks, Bucklers, and Their Weapons. large Cymiters, which they call Padang, and Lances of a more solid Wood than our Box. They exercise all these Weapons from their Child-hood, as they do in casting a sort of Hooks with sharp Points and Edges, which they dart at the Enemies Bodies, and then draw back the Lines they are made fast to. Their Heads they arm with Helmets; and on their Crests wear Birds of Paradise, both for Ornament, and a superstitious Defence. They have Breast and Back Pieces, and call’d them as we did Corselets. When they are to fight at Sea, as soon as the War-like Instruments begin to sound, the Soldiers fall a leaping, and skipping on the Benches, which run round the Oars like Shovels. Carcoas from Stem to Stern. The Slaves ply the Oars, which are like wooden Shovels, make the Vessel fly by main Force, and serve to lade out the Water, when there is Occasion. They are so revengeful, that having Cruelty of Bandeses. been in those Days vanquish’d on Land by the Labetans, many of them being kill’d and wounded, those of Nera assembled the next Day in five Carcoas, and attacking the little Island Bayjer, the Natives whereof had assisted the Labetans they slew all they found, without sparing any but a few Women, whom they carry’d Captives to Nera, with the Heads of their Enemies before them on Spears; and for four Days, to the Amazement of Foreigners, and particularly the Dutch, they show’d their Cymiters embrew’d in Gore, about the Streets. Nay, a Soldier among them, in the Sight of Abundance, took a Fancy to try his Cymiter, he carry’d naked, and with it clove down one of the Captive Women, from the Shoulder to the Breast.

Burial of Enemies. They shew’d themselves Merciful in burying those Heads, assembling together in the House of the Shabander, that is the Governor, in the Presence of all the People, which uses to meet to see such Spectacles, every Heads.Soldier, as a Testimony of his Valour, laid all the Heads he had cut off on Their Funerals. a very large Stone, under a Tree: They wrapp’d them up in Cotton Cloths, and carrying them in Dishes bury’d them in a Grove, with much Smoke of Frankincense, whereof they have great Plenty. Had those dead Persons been Natives, their Kindred and Friends would have come immediately to lament with loud Cries, as they use to do, over their Graves, which they dig like us, wrap up the Bodies in Shrouds of white Cotton, and carry them to be bury’d on their Shoulders. They are great Observers, that the Funerals of Men should go before those of Women; place Lamps over the Graves of all, and by their Light pray for them. They cry out furiously, calling the Dead, as if they hop’d they should come to Life at their Call; and perceiving they do not rise again, the Kindred and Friends meet about the most splendid Entertainment they are able to provide. Being ask’d by the Dutch, what it was they ask’d of God in the Prayers they mutter’d over the Graves, they answer’d. We pray that the Dead may not rise again. So that the Want of the true Light of Faith, does not hinder them from seeing, how much Mankind suffers from the first Moment of his Life, till the last; but it is rather to be concluded, that they look upon it as a Misfortune to have been born. They were much amaz’d to hear, that the Dutch did not use the same Ceremony towards their dead.

They play at Foot-Ball, which is made of Spanish Reeds. They that Foot-Ball. Play make a Ring one standing in the Center, who tosses the Ball to those about him, and they with a Kick throw it so high that it is almost out of Sight. If any one misses it, they hiss, and hoot, to shame him for his Unskilfulness. Men live in this Island longer than in any other Parts of Life long in Banda. the World. The Dutch saw several, who exceed 130 Years of Age. They live upon the Product of their Country; and tho’ there is continual War, yet the greater Number lives Idle; and it is very remarkable that those People, who are so much addicted to Sloath, should be such Enemies to Quietness. A useless Life does not deserve much Age; and that which is dedicated to Idleness seldom attains to it. The Women Plow and Till Women Till the Land. the Land, and follow other manly Professions. They seldom go abroad with Men; they have all the Charge of Houshold Affairs, and their greatest Employment within Doors, is usually uncasing and drying of Nutmegs.

The Dutch having loaded with Spice, Purcelane, and some Rubies, and Dutch depart from Banda. settled Factories, and Amity, sail’d from Banda, on the 14th of July, with great firing of Cannon. They stood towards the Island Noeselau, the Natives whereof are Anthropophagi, so the Greeks call Man-Eaters. They proceeded towards that of Amboyna, whose Western Point they discover’d, yet did not touch at it then, but went on to the greater Java, notwithstanding Come to Java. their Admiral was at Amboyna. They arriv’d at Java and the City Tuban, sent two Boats thither to Discover, and know whither they might be allow’d to take in Provisions. Those who return’d with the Answer, brought along with them a Portuguese, who, at the Perswasion of the Natives, had renounc’d Portuguese Renegado. the Faith of Jesus Christ, as was known, and call’d among them by the name of the Renegado, as a proper Appellative, and not dishonourable. This Man inform’d the Admiral, That if he would stay there three or four Months, he might enrich his Ships to his Hearts Content. They sent by him to ask the King’s Leave, with some Presents of Copper, Glass and Silk. Presents to and from the King. The next day Merchants came down to the Harbour, with Abundance of Commodities; and from the King, in Return for their insignificant Present, they brought the Dutch 19 great Sacks of Rice. The Trade being settled, they went up to the City, where they saw several Horsemen, well Arm’d, Horses well Accouter’d, on which they value themselves very much, Shops well stor’d, and a free Trade for all Nations. The Vice-Admiral went to kiss the King’s Hand, who receiv’d him Graciously; promis’d to go Aboard the Ships in Person, and perform’d it, having first order’d them to be show’d all his Royal Apartments, even to his Womens private Lodgings; his Elephants; an infinite number of Birds in Cages, and his Stables full of excellent Horses, and many of them. Then the Prince came Aboare the Ships, and after him the King. The Cannon saluted them both, and they admir’d, and were pleas’d with the Noise.

Tuban Capital of Java. Tuban is the King of Java’s Court, the strongest of all the Cities in that Island, encompass’d with a high Wall, divided by several Gates with Towers on them, contains stately Structures, and Squares appointed for the publick Resort of Traders, the King is extraordinary rich, and in a few Hours can gather a great Number of Horse and Foot. His Palace is truly Royal, his Family consists of the Prime Nobility, and he is very powerful at Sea. They call their Ships Juncks; which being loaded with Pepper, and other Product of the Country, as Silks and Cloths, the Manufactures Trade of that City. of his People, are sent to Balim; where bartering them for Cloaths, they transport those to other Kingdoms, as those of Banda, the Moluccos, and Philippines. Whence, and from other Islands, having improv’d their Commodities, they bring Mastick, Nutmegs, Cloves, and other Spice. All the Habit. Country abounds in Cattle, which graze all Day in the Woods, and are hous’d at Night. Their Habit is the same as at Banda, and covers their Bodies from the Waste downwards, the rest upwards remaining naked. They all wear Daggers, call’d Crises, and the Nobles stately long Vests, the Fullness whereof waves in the Air magnificently. None of them goes abroad attended by less than ten or twelve Servants, one of which always carries for his Master a little Basket full of the Leaves of a certain Plant they call Betele, which they chew with green Nuts, and a little Lime. This Composition they call Ledon; in chewing, it yields a Juice, which they swallow, and then spit out the green Substance, after the Virtue has been extracted in their Mouths.

They were so overjoy’d at the coming of the Dutch, that the next Day The Kings Dress. they invited them to see their Diversions. The King was present a Horse-Back, clad in several Sorts of rich Silks, but all Girt about him. To his Belt hung a Cymiter, in a Scabard adorn’d with precious Stones; the Hilt of beaten Gold, with a Devils Head form’d on it. On his Turbant he had abundance of Feathers. All the Nobility follow’d him, Dress’d much after the same manner, mounted on stately prancing Horses, but smaller than ours, with rich Furnitures of Spanish Leather, studded, and plated with Gold, and Figures of Serpents; and in some of the Bridles they had Stones, so white that they look’d like Alabaster. Sometimes they ran streight forwards, and sometimes in a Ring, casting their Darts. When the Sport was over, they attended the King, by whose Orders they carry’d aboard the Ships, Commerce settled between the Dutch and Javaneses. and to the Dutch Men’s Lodgings, a great quantity of Rice, Sheep, Goats, Hens, Eggs, Fish, and Fruit, as Coco-Nuts, Mangos, Lemons, and delicious Bananas. Then they fell to treating of Trade, and Amity, and thought every Thing cheap except the Pepper, for they not liking the Commodities the Dutch offer’d in Exchange for it, lifting up their Hands cry’d, Lima, which, in their Tongue, signifies five Pieces of Eight. So much they demanded for a Measure of theirs. They were well receiv’d in all Respects, except in Relation to admitting of their Sect.

They had deliver’d Letters to the King from Count Maurice, which he answer’d in the Persian Tongue, and the Dutch having receiv’d them, left Tuban, on the 24th of the same Month, with fair Weather, and well furnish’d with valuable Commodities and Provisions. Passing by the Island Madura Island. Sidago, they anchor’d between Java and Madura; sounded the Depth, and notwithstanding the Current, and that the Ground was a stiff Muddy Hill, they visited Madura, landing on the East-side; but remov’d presently to the City Arosbay, on the West, and afterwards thence to Jorta, to get Guides, or Pilots to conduct them to the rest of the Moluccos. They sent to Compliment the King of Madura, who presently after the Audience, sent the Vice-Admiral a Sheep, with which went the Renegado, who had brought him a Dagger, they call Criz, from the King of Tuban, richly adorn’d with Gold and precious Stones, and the King’s Head engrav’d on the Pommel. They found a German settled in the Country, rich in Spice, and understood Madura Described. by him, that at Arosbay they had seiz’d 40 of their Companions. The Island of Madura, next to Java, inclines to the Northward. They wear the same Habit as in the other; but are sharper Witted. It is most fruitful in Rice, but both in Reaping and Plowing, the Peasants and Buffalos are mir’d up to the Knees, the continual Inundations keeping the Ground so wet. Few Ships come to it, by reason of its inaccessible Shoales. They have the same common use of Weapons, Elephants, Horses, Spears, Campilanes, or Cymiters, and Shields. The Crizes, or Daggers, worn by the King’s Guards are Arosbay City. of Silver. The City Arosbay is Populous, and well Wall’d. The Hollanders main Design in coming to it, was, as has been said, to take in Pilots, and other Necessaries to proceed to the Molucco Islands; to which Purpose, and to avoid the Shoals lying betwixt Java and Madura, they divided their Ships. The Vice-Admiral, with the Guelder and Zealand, pass’d the Chanels of Madura, in order to joyn, at Jorta, the Junks that sail for Ternate, and thence to the other Molucco Islands.

The Admiral Sticht Utrecht, running along the length of Madura, came to an Anchor before Arosbay. He sent out a Number of his Men in the Dutch taken by the King of Madura. Boat, to bring Rice, and other Provisions from Shore. No sooner were they landed, then seiz’d, disarm’d, stripp’d, and carry’d before the King. Those staying long, another Boat was sent with only three Men, and the same befell them. The Prisoners intreated the King to give leave, that those three, or any others, might go to give the Admiral an Account. He granted it, but upon Condition, that as soon as they had deliver’d the Message, they should return to Prison. They gave Notice of their Misfortune, and the Admiral sent away a Boat to carry immediate Advice to his Countrymen at the City Jorta, writing several Letters to procure the Prisoners Liberty. The Vice-Admiral came with his Ships, and joyn’d those at Arosbay. The His Demands for their Ransom. King demanded the two biggest Brass Guns aboard the Admiral, many Pieces of Silk, and one thousand Pieces of Eight for the Ransom of the Prisoners. The Admiral answer’d, That the Cannon was not his own, but belong’d to all his Nation, and therefore he desir’d him to moderate the Ransom, and turn it into Money, or take it out in such Commodities as he brought. Six Days were spent in Treating, and the Delay made the Conclusion more Difficult; and therefore the Admiral believing, that his Men were kept Prisoners in their own Boats, or near the Sea, without any considerable Guard, he order’d all his Men to land at once, and to Rescue them Attempt to Rescue them by Force. by Force. An hundred and fifty Dutchmen attempted it, but saw a great Number of People gathering on the Shore, led by the Portugueses, who carry’d white Colours, in token of Peace, giving out that they came to treat of an Accommodation, which, as Hugo affirms, was a Stratagem to gain Time for the Citizens to Arm. The Dutch either suspected, or had Notice of it, and forming a small body with about 20 Musquetiers, contriv’d to have their other Boats draw nearer, that so the Seamen and Officers might come to Fight, according to the appointed Order. More Men came out of the City, at another Gate, to enclose them unawares in the Port. The Dutch saw into the Policy, and were sensible of the Danger, and therefore sent two other boats to guard the Port. This Precaution was the saving of their Lives; but they could not escape a Shower of Arrows, wherewith the Arosbayans thought to subdue them, not so much by their Force, and the Harm receiv’d, as by keeping the Enemy in Play, that so they might spend their Powder, and be oblig’d to retire to their Ships. Nor would they have been safe there, for now the Wind and Sea threatned them, and Dutch Defeated. thirty six Men belonging to the Admiral, and thirteen to the Zealand were Drown’d, and the Boats cast away. Some few escap’d, whom they did not kill, at the Request of the Renegado of Tuban, but they were made Prisoners. These kneeling down, to move Compassion, with their dismal Looks, and Tears, the Conquerors laid a Handful of Earth on their Heads, a Ceremony Ceremony in giving Quarter. they use towards the vanquish’d, whose Lives they grant. Perhaps they themselves know not the Reason, and Original of the Custom. Five and Twenty were lost in this Encounter, fifteen of the Admirals, one of John Marts, and nine of the Zealand. The Prisoners were carry’d to a Country Cottage; three Men dangerously wounded, one Trumpeter, and a Herald put into Chains, the others only their Hands bound. The rest were carry’d far from these, and put into a deep Cellar. The Herald being brought into the King’s Presence, he ask’d him, whether he would stay in his Country, promising, among other Favours, that he would marry him to two of his own Wives. The Dutchman answer’d, returning Thanks, but with Freedom in his Looks, That with his good leave he had rather return to his Companions. He was therefore carry’d, with the Trumpeter, about the City, and at his going out at the Gate saw all the Prisoners, being fifty one, who were conducting, under a Guard, to another Island.

Prisoners Ransom’d. In fine, the Agreement was concluded, and the King discharg’d them for 2000 Florines. So they return’d to their Ships, except two, who hid themselves, taking a liking to that barbarous Way of living. The Governour Jacob Marts Dy’d, his Body was cast into the Sea, and the rest sailing to the Dutch Depart. Northward, directed their Course for the Island of Celebes. They pass’d by Combay, six Leagues from it, and beyond that of Routon, and escap’d the Ridges of Rocks of Cebessa, which are not mark’d down, nor taken Notice of in Maps. Their fell mighty Rains, and they steer’d North East for the Island of Amboyna, and in sight of Boora. A Boy dy’d aboard the Zealand; another falling off a Yard, into the Sea, held a Rope’s End in his Mouth, that his arms might be at Liberty to swim, and quitted it not, till he had Help, and was sav’d. The next Day they lay by, and their Preacher made a long Spiritual Discourse upon the Sacraments, to celebrate the solemnity of Baptizing two Boys, whom he had already Catechis’d. On the first of March, not far from Blau, to the Eastward of Boora, they saw three other smaller Islands, call’d Atypoti, Maniba, and Gita, which are not far from Come to Amboyna. Amboyna. They pass’d by them, and arriv’d at Amboyna on the third of the same Month.

The Port is small, and at the Mouth of it, they were receiv’d by three Boats, belonging to the Town of Matel, seated on the Mountains. Thence they went on to that of Ito. Amboyna is about eight Leagues from Banda, to the Northward, in the Way to Ternate. The compass of it is fifteen Leagues, most fruitful in Cloves, Oranges, Lemmons, Citrons, Coco-Nuts, Bananas, Sugar-Canes, and other such like Product. The Natives are more open Hearted, and sincere, than those of the Moluccos or Banda; wear the same Habit; live Upon the Trade of Spice; are temperate and abstemious, Their Weapons. and great Sufferers of Hardship. Their Weapons, are Spears with Sharp twisted Ends; these they dart so dexterously, that they will hit the smallest Mark at a great Distance. They also use Cymiters and Shields, and now Muskets. They make great Masses of Sugar, Rice, and Almonds, like our Carcoas. Sugar-Loaves, and value themselves upon being able Seamen. Their Carcoas are like great Dragons, did these swim with their Bodies extended on the Water, and lifting up their two Ends of Head and Tail, which are gilt, and well Carv’d, and serve for Prow and Poop. At both of them hang Standards of several Sorts of Silk, and Colours, which are born up by the Wind, when they do not reach to the Water. The Admiral of Amboyna came with three of these Vessels full of arm’d Men, to see the Dutch, with a Musick. Noise of Kittle-Drums, and Brass Basons hanging on the Musitian’s Left-Shoulder, and striking them with the Right-Hand, as they do the Tabors in Spain. They sang their set Airs, understood by none but the Native Amboyneses, tho’ attentively listen’d to by the Dutch, for their Strangeness. The Slaves also sang to the Noise of their Oars. They fir’d the three Guns every Carcoa carry’d, being a Salute, in Honour of their Guests; who relying on that Reception, dropt their Anchors, posting many Sentinels, because they observ’d the Natives had done the same in all Parts, and there were constant Fires in many Places.

Dutch permitted to Trade at Amboyna. The Amboynese Admiral ask’d them, What they came for, and who they were, and having heard their Answer, gave them leave to go ashore, and expose their Commodities, allowing them free Commerce, contrary to his Majesty’s Prohibition, which us’d to be more punctually observ’d in this Island. The Dutch Vice-Admiral went ashore, where he was well received, and conducted to a Seat cover’d with Sails of Ships, supported by Trees, full of Fruit not known in Europe. He easily prevail’d with the Governors, to allow him full Liberty to Trade. Their Success was forwarded King of Ternate’s Brother assists the Dutch. by Cachil Azude, Brother to the King of Ternate, who happen’d to be there then, celebrating his Nuptials, being newly come with his Bride, who was the Daughter of a Sangiack of Batochina. He had long courted, and desir’d to be marry’d to her, but was oppos’d by the Father, who had promised her to the King of Bachian. We shall say no more of their Love, nor of what became of the Prince, because it is no essential Part of this History. He presently repair’d to the Dutch, and order’d them to be furnish’d with those Loaves made of Sugar, Almonds and Rice, with Coco-Nuts, Bananas, and Wine made of Rice, and this so lavishly, that the Dutch Plenty of Provisions. Relations own they had scarce Room to lay up such Plenty of Provisions. The same would have been, had they bought them, for they had so much for a Pewter Spoon, that they knew not what to do with it. The Amboynese Admiral went aboard the Ships again, was pleas’d to see the great Guns, and the Variety and Plenty of Merchandise. The Prince of Ternate did the same, and both of them at their coming and going were saluted by the Cannon. They had private Conferences with him, and other Noblemen of the Moluccos, who attended him. They erected Factories in several Parts of Amboyna, and agreed that the two Ships, Guelder and Zealand, should Sail for Banda, whilst the other two lay two Months to load and rest at Amboyna. We shall mention hereafter what befel these in Ternate, let us now return to the other two.

Two Dutch Ships sail for Banda. They sail’d with a fair Wind, but one of them stuck in the Flats of Ceru, so that she could scarce be got off. Below Jealau, they met a Portuguese Ship at Naesau, the Inhabitants of which Place eat Mans Flesh. They pass’d on merrily by Poelsetton, two Leagues short of Banda, on that Side. It is desert, and uninhabited, infamous, for stronger Reasons, than the Greeks alledge against the Acroceraunian Rocks. There are Cryes, Whistles, and Island of Devils. Roarings heard in it at all Times, and dreadful Apparitions are seen, with Fires ascending through the Air; and long Experience has shown, that it is inhabited by Devils. Therefore Sailors, when they pass in Sight of it, which seldom happens without Storms, make all the Sail they can to get far off, from the very Wind that blows on it. The Dutch chief Pilot knowing so much, furiously took such fast hold of the Helm, that all the rest could not put him from it; He drew it to him violently, thinking that Force drove on the Ship; his Face grew fiery, and his Breast not being able to contain his Wind, he breath’d fast, and groan’d, till being past the Dutch Pilot frighted by the Devil. Island, he grew merry, and whistling loud, scoff’d at the Devil, because he could not cast away the Ship; yet soon after he was in Disorder again, and dropt the Helm; they recover’d him, and made all sail to go forward. Trade at Banda. They arriv’d at Banda, near the River, on the fifteenth of the Month. Several Bandese Boats came out, offering their Spice. The Dutch landed, carrying with them sundry Commodities, which they expos’d in Shops. A rich Turk, who was in Esteem, entertain’d them. They built Houses on the Island, and a few Days after hear’d News of their Admiral, by some Chinese Ships, that came from Amboyna; and were inform’d, that the Portugueses were already at War with the Natives, for entertaining and allowing them Factories.

Return thence. On the fourth of July, having settled Trade at Banda, they sail’d thence towards Noeselau, along the Channels of Zeru, without regarding their Admiral, who was promoting, and fomenting the War at Amboyna. They sail’d in Sight of Bouton, which is in five Degrees of South Latitude, and of the Island Cobayna. On the twelfth they pass’d the Coast of Celebes, and on the seventeenth, by that of Madura, and again discover’d Arosbay, where the Misfortune we have spoken of befel them. They ran along the Coast of Java, and in the Evening came to Iacatra, where they cast Anchor, sent to visit the King, and their Compliment was return’d by him with a Present of Rice, Fowl, and Coco-Nuts, and a Buffalo for the Vice-Admiral. The Zealanders, who had been left at Banda in their Houses and Factories, in the Cities of Montelongo, and Soleparvo, by Letters of the first of August, acquainted them, how the new Friendship was establish’d. From this Time the Dutch began, without any Opposition, to possess themselves of the Provinces belonging to the Crown of Spain in Asia.

They took Leave of that King, and return’d to Banda, with the Natives of which Place they had now contracted such Familiarity, that some Ships belonging to Bandese Merchants, which they met by the Way, presented them with a considerable Quantity of Porcelane. At their Arrival the Governour came out to meet them, with 400 Men, inviting them to take some Refreshment ashore, which they refus’d, but made presents to each other, and drank out great Vessels of Wine made of Rice, which is a powerful and strong Liquor. Continuing their Voyage on the tenth of September, towards the South West, they thought they were under the Tropick of Capricorn. On the thirtieth, they were in 28 Degrees, with the Wind at West, somewhat Northerly, and ran thirty Leagues beyond Cape S. Roman, after they had been toss’d among many Islands, in thirty two Degrees and a half South. Next they discover’d Cape Ploemera, of the Southern Ethiopia, or Land of the Cafres. A Storm dispers’d the Ships, but they met again when it ceas’d, at Cape Anquillos. On the seventh of September they arriv’d at the Island S. Helena; the Master went ashore, kill’d many wild Beasts; and, S. Helena Island. furnish’d the Ships with Fruit, there being Plenty of both. The Sick recovered there: They went into the solitary Church, and on the first of January, 1600, they sail’d thence, and being come into five Degrees of North Latitude, on the Thirtieth of the same Month, observ’d an Eclypse. Then they began to discover the North Pole, which had been out of their Sight so long. On the thirteenth of February they had Sight of the Island Mayo, or May, one of those of Cabo Verde, and about the End of March discover’d the English Hills. In fine, they arriv’d at the Texel, and thence to Amsterdam, where they unladed that spicy Wealth, the like, for Quality and Newness, had never yet been brought to Lisbon; at least Hugo’s Relations tell us, there might have been as precious Oyl drawn from these, as when they were just gather’d.

Whilst these two Ships, Zealand and Guelder, were sailing Home, the The other Dutch Ships depart the Moluccos: other two, Amsterdam and Utretcht, being almost naturaliz’d at Amboyna, departed thence for Ternate, on the eigth of March, 1599, in the Company of three Junks, full of Javanese Soldiers, well arm’d, and hir’d to attack a Fort that was defended by Portugueses. Before their Departure, some of them went ashore, and among other Game, took Abundance of green Pigeons, Green Pigeons. as big as our Ducks. They loaded with Clove, because it is sold in that Island for thirty five Royals a Bar, which is there 150 Pounds. They were inform’d, that the Dutch, who had been left at Banda, would soon come to joyn them. The Portugueses attacking a Fort with ill Success, the Dutch, who were before agreed with the Prince of Ternate, arm’d, and mix’d with his Men. This was the first Time they ever Fought with the Subjects of Spain, in those Parts; and the Dutch Author, who gives an Account of this Action, says, the Islanders look’d upon it as a Prodigy.

Having settled Commerce at Amboyna, they sail’d away for the Islands of Ternate, taking for their Guide, a Captain, who pretended to them, Dutch at Ternate. that he was Brother to the King of an Island; and to magnify his Grand-Father, boasted he had kept seventy lawful Wives, besides Concubines; and that his Son, to vye with him, had forty Wives, besides Mistresses. So says the Journal of that Voyage, writ by them who perform’d it. They discover’d the Islands of Tydore and Ternate on the twenty sixth, and coming to an Anchor at the latter, in fifteen Fathom Water, put out their Colours, fired their Cannon, and spar’d for no real or vain Ostentation. The King of Ternate, whose deep known Sagacity is such, that he trusts no other but himself to observe what Dangers may threaten, went into his own Carcoa, attended by many others, on the 28th of May, and sail’d The King goes to view the Ships. to the Place, where the Dutch lay at Anchor. He drew near and inclos’d the Ships, call’d to the Admiral, and ask’d him, who he was, whence his Ships, and other Particulars. These Questions and Answers held some Hours, by Means of the Naguatato’s who interpreted the Discourse. The Admiral intreated the King that he would please to come aboard his Ship. He excus’d himself, first alledging, that he did not like those Ladders they show’d him to go up to them, tho’ they had purposely cover’d them with fine Cloth; and afterwards, that the Sun was setting, and it was Time for him to repair to his Devotions. Having made this godly Excuse, he sail’d towards the City, the Air resounding with the Noise of his Brass Basons, Flat Tabors, Guns, Shouts, and Persian Songs.

He returns. The 29th he drew near to the new Comers again, with 23 Carcoas; in which he had 100 Brass Guns for his Defence, and firing them all at once, to the clattering of Bells, made show of his Warlike Preparation. The Confusion of it being over, tho’ they sang Verses, as they do to denote Peace, in the Malay Tongue, so they call the Language of Malaca, whence it was convey’d to the Moluccos; yet the Dutch made ready their great Guns, Muskets, and half Pikes. They plac’d some arm’d Men out of Sight in every Ship, as also where they might be taken Notice of, showing, or at least not concealing their Jealousy, that so no sudden Surprize might find them unprovided. The King’s Carcoa drew near alone, and those who were in it spoke to the Dutch Admiral, by Means of the Naguatato, without showing themselves.

The King was satisfy’d with only talking to them, and withdrew; after Noon he return’d with only two Carcoas, one of which tow’d a Boat after Talks with the Dutch. her. Being come up to the Dutch, he began to talk to the Vice-Admiral; enquir’d after their Guns, and order’d the other Carcoa to stand further off, and the Captain going too far, the Boat, either accidentally, or by Design, broke loose from the Stern, and was over-set by the Waves; the King then desired the Admiral to fire at it with a Ball, that he might see whether they could hit or sink it. They fir’d immediately, the King being well pleas’d to see that the Shot had stav’d the Boat in Pieces. The Admiral laying hold of this Opportunity, took Care, whilst they were commending the Shot, which serv’d to disguise the Threat, to let him know that he could with as much Ease sink the Carcoas. This Tryal satisfy’d the Gives them leave to Trade. King, who soon after gave leave for that Nation to Trade in his Dominions, and barter Cloves, Spice, precious Stones, and Pearls, all which is there to be found, by reason of the Resort of the Japonese, Camboxa and Chinese Ships. Of these last they then saw some all made of Wood alone, even to their Anchors, and the Sails of Cane. They came to an Anchor at Ternate, where the first Thing they did, was burying of Reynart Reynarts, a Dutch Soldier, scarce worthy of that Buryal, Idolaters and Mahometans resorting to the Funeral. The King the next Day sent a Carcoa to acquaint the Dutch, that he would go aboard their Ships, and a Boat came to the Admiral’s Side, with only four Ternates in a private Habit, who, by their Questions, Curiosity, and Solicitude, seem’d to be Spyes, as they did by all their Discourse, which was on sundry Subjects, and very full of solid Reflection; which was held on, and listen’d to, with Attention and Dissimulation.

When the Dutch expected the King would come, they understood he The King visits the Dutch, in Disguise. was one of the four then talking to them from the Boat. They signify’d to him that they knew him, and he did not deny it. They pay’d him the Respect due to a King; but then he refus’d to return to the Ship. Notwithstanding these Jealousies, he approved of the Behaviour of that People. On the second of June Embassadors went ashore, who carry’d the King a Present, which he accepted of, and treated them courteously. They return’d, full of Admiration of the infinite Quantity of Cloves, and the wonderful Woods of them; and bringing the News, that the Ternates would soon come to view and buy the Dutch Commodities.

The next Day they came in great Numbers, Sangiacks, Cachiles, and Commons, Barbarian Ladies, and all Sorts of Women, with Variety of Concourse of People to the Dutch. Attendance. The Shores were cover’d with sundry Sorts of People; differing in Habit, Colour, and great Diversity of Feathers; among them many naked, and of various Countenances, for all flock’d out, as if it had been some publick Festival. Tho’ they admir’d the Wealth of the Ships, yet they rais’d the Price of the Bars of Clove so high, that they could not come to any Agreement, because that was to be their main Loading. They went ashore on the 10th and 11th, to see whether they abated any Thing of the Price, and to some other Purposes, which do not concern us, tho’ they might be some Ornament, but shall be left in the Originals where they were writ. They could not conclude any Thing with the King, or his Subjects, because they were celebrating a Festival, and the Dutch were present at the Shows.

A Sort of Combatants, like the Roman Pugiles, and Gladiators, tho’ Indian Gladiators. differing in some Respects, fought in a large spacious Square. These Ternates did not move from one Place to another, nor hurt one another, but stood continually upon one Foot, without changing or easing it, on any Account; but the Foot that was lifted up, mov’d about and stretch’d in the Air, without being put to the Ground. Their Mistresses, Wives, or Sisters attended in the Field, with Branches of Flowers, and China Dishes full of Aromatick Liquors, to refresh those that were tyr’d; but most of them attended the Conqueror. The Sport being ended, the next Day the King repair’d to the Ships, but went not aboard. Discoursing with the Admiral, he ask’d him for a gilt Musket, which he presented him, and The King asks a Musket, and pays for it. the King did not think fit to receive Gratis, because he had ask’d for it; he therefore order’d, that when the Dutch paid the Tithe of the Spice, which is the Duty he has from Merchants, they should have two Bars and a half discounted for the Price of the Musket, and that they should be furnish’d with every Thing they had Occasion for besides. He was well pleas’d one Day, that the Dutch should see how a Boy of eleven Years of Age, was led about the Streets, with his Hands bound, because he had stolen a Tubac, Severe Punishment of petty Larceny. that is, a Leaf of a Frail, with as many Cloves as it would carry; because this was an Instance of their Severity in punishing that Offence. The other Boys, shouted and sham’d him, proclaiming the Theft with loud Voices.

Triumph of Ternates. About this Time some Ternate Troops return’d Home victorious, having plunder’d and destroy’d a Town in the Island of Tydore. They march’d into the City on the 20th of July, the King being present, with their Campilanes, or Cymiters drawn, and bloody, with half Heads, Ears, and Hair of those they had conquer’d, or slain, sticking to them. They show’d the Shields and Weapons they had taken from them, their Cloaths and Feathers, and 43 Prisoners, who follow’d dragging Chains, some about their Necks, and some at their Heels. Among them was a brave Youth, 21 Years of Age, who was a Sangiack of Note, and Kinsman to the King of Tydore; as also a very beautiful Portuguese Lady, Wife to a Captain in that Fort. They walk’d about the City, with all this State and Plunder, till they came to Prisoners sacrific’d. the King’s Palace; there the Captives were sacrific’d, and the Portuguese Lady sold for a Slave, a rare Piece of Mercy, and purchas’d by her Tears. The King of Ternate honour’d the Chief of the Tydores, smiling and lovingly encouraging him, as Kinsman to a King. The Youth excusing himself, and pleading Innocence, to gain the Victor’s Favour, he return’d a favourable Answer, and bid him wash himself. Sweet Water was brought to wash their Hands, and it was poured over the King’s Hands and his, at the same Time, out of one Ewer. Then the Captive thus assur’d, letting fall his Hands with the Water, which, perhaps, is a Ceremony to denote Peace, and bowing his Head by way of civility, a Soldier struck him on Barbarous Perfidiousness. the Neck with a sharp Campilane, or Cymiter, so furiously, that the Head dropt at some Distance from the Body half alive; then they cut both the Head and Body into small Pieces, all which, to exercise their utmost Rage, they put into a Prau, which is a little Boat, and then sunk all together in the Sea.

Four Days after another Parcel of Ternates came with several Tydore More of their Cruelty. Prisoners, whose Heads they cut off in the Port, as they did that of a Stranger, who came peaceably to the Island with Merchandize. All these Spectacles the Dutch beheld. Such good Use do those Barbarians make of Victory. Friendship being now establish’d with the Dutch, and the King The King aboard the Dutch Ships. well assur’d of it, he resolv’d to go aboard their Ships. He went aboard the Admiral on the 25th of July, with all his Guard, where nothing escap’d being narrowly view’d and observ’d by him, with a seeming willingness to buy it. He desired the Admiral to leave some of his Men at Ternate, which was refus’d at that Time. He view’d the Ship over again, and going into the Cook-Room, very much admir’d a Pair of Bellows, wherewith they kindled the Fire in his Presence, and seeing the Use they were put to, took them into his own Hands, and was a considerable Time opening and shutting of them; then biting and pressing the Nozle with his Lips, Foolish Behaviour of his. he began to swallow the Wind it blow’d out, swelling himself up, not without much Laughter and Astonishment of the Dutch, who write, they Thought the King was either running Mad, or had no Sense before. He begg’d those Bellows, and being presented with them, was highly pleas’d. He return’d several Times after to the Ships, with a greater Design in his Head, which was to try whether he could by any Means contrive to seize them. He was pleas’d to see how affectionately his Subjects traded and trusted them with their Spice. At length they prevail’d upon the Admiral to leave some of his Men, with a good Sum of Money, to Dutch Factory at Ternate. buy up Cloves the next gathering. The first Dutch Factors left at Ternate, were Francis Verdoes, Father to William; Diricht Floris, Jacob Lamberts, John Jans, of Grol; Cornelius Adrians, and a Boy of Amsterdam, whose Name was Henry Jans. These laid the Ground for the second Enmity, with the first Rebells of that Nation, who conspir’d with the Ternates, and were afterwards the Occasion of other Fleets and Succours coming into those Parts, against their Natural Sovereign.

These Men being left at Ternate, and having receiv’d Intelligence that Dutch depart Ternate. the Brigantines were returning from the Island of Banda, the Ships sail’d from Ternate, on the 19th of August, passing by the Island Maca, among the other Moluccos, and that of Oba, to the Northward. Then in two Degrees and a half Latitude, they discover’d so many Islands, that they could not count them; others they saw, not set down in the Maps, and learnt their Names from some Sailors. Among them was that of Banquore, and its Neighbour Sabobe, whose King resides in that of Mitara, and has 30 more within a very small Compass. He furnish’d them with Provisions, and gave Notice of Dangerous Ridges of Rocks; to avoid which, they return’d the same Way they came, in Sight of Amboyna and Celebes. On the 13th of November, they were inform’d at Jaquetra, that the Vice-Admiral was already gone from Banda; and had there a great Quantity of Rice, brought but just before by Chinese Vessels.

Come to Banda. On the 17th they came to Banda, where at Montelongo, and Soleparvo, they found the two Zealand Ships, which having traded about eight Months with little Profit, design’d to return. On the 15th of January 1600, the Admiral made the Governour of Banda some European Presents, and among them a small Boat, all cover’d with fine Scarlet. All the Merchants met and set sail for Holland, on the 21th of the same Month, and sail’d all February, with stormy Winds, and loss of some of their Men, till the Weather mended on the third of March. On the 13th of April, in the Latitude of 34 Degrees and a half, they found themselves somewhat At the Cape of Good Hope.above 20 Leagues from the Cape of Good Hope. On the 16th of May, they reach’d the Island of St. Helena, where, at some Distance, they discover’d other Ships. Some Men landed, and admir’d its strange Fertility among those Mountains. They saw another Island, whose bare Rocks, S. Helena. without Trees or Grass, look as if they were made of Coals; and among them are Abundance of monstrous wild Boars, yet nothing could be seen to grow, or any living Creatures they could feed upon; There were also Desart Island. large Tortoises, some of them weighing 400 Weight. On the last of May they made for the Texel, and thence to Amsterdam, where they were receiv’d with publick Rejoycing; and they again prepar’d to return to India, and continuing their Trade with those barbarous Kings, who are Masters of the Spice, Metals, precious Stones, Pearls, and other foreign Wealth, have at length converted the Friendship they kindly offer’d at first, into Slavery, and Subjection to the Tyranny of Holland and Zealand. And in the Year 1600, with more Expedition, they sail’d into Guinea, and to S. George de la Mina, with only two Ships, the first Time, and ran through the same Ports and Islands, throughout our Seas in Safety. They took particular Accounts of all Things, whether Natural, or Political, relating to that vast extended Country of Asia, which is almost opposite to Europe, and under other Stars, and another Pole. The same Year, being in search of the North-Passage, in 80 Degrees of Latitude, they discover’d Nova Zembla. Nova Zembla, where they found nothing but monstrous white and grey Bears, which did not run, but rather took little Notice of the Noise of Cannon, and devour’d Men; there were also white Crows, no less undaunted; and in short, most of that Part of the World was desart, and they found not the Passage they expected into the South-Sea. Yet they now sail’d all those Southern Parts, at all Seasons, making a Jest of the Monsons, the Portugueses so mightily observe, as if they had them shut up in Skins, like the Fable in Ulysses. Perhaps they buy fair and stormy Winds, as is said to be done in Lapland, at settled Rates, of Witches that deal in them.

Vanity of the King of Ternate. The King of Ternate was so puff’d up with the Friendship, and Support of the Northern Nations, that he durst boldly flatter himself with the Hope of becoming absolute Master of Tydore. Accordingly he streightned that King, and the Portuguese Garrison, without allowing them the least Respite. Other Dutch Ships had come since the former to that Island, on Account of Trade, by the Way of India, with Arms and several Commodities. The Ternate Embassadors were treating in England and Holland, for settling of perpetual Peace and Commerce. The King had already received Answers to these Embassies, and very speedily expected an English Fleet, and many Dutch Ships, with whose Assistance he promis’d himself to destroy Tydore, and thence to stretch out to the Philippines. In the mean while, some Dutch and English remain’d at his Court, like Hostages, with a Factor, whose Business was to attend the Bartering, or buying up of Spice; to purchase which they brought him Abundance of curious Arms. This being known to the King of Tydore, and Ruy Gonzalez de Sequeyra, Commander of the Fort, who every Year writ to the Embassy from Tydore to the Philippines. Governour of the Philippines about it; they now sent a particular Embassy to Don Francisco Tello, giving him an Account of the Condition of those Places; of the Fort; of the Succours, and how vain it was to expect them from India. That an Affair of such Consequence might sort the desired The King’s Brother Embassador. Event, they appointed Cachil Cota, the King of Tydore’s Brother, a notable Soldier, and most renowned Commander of the Moluccos, to go Embassador. He came to Manila, well attended, with Letters from the King, and the Commander in Chief. Those, and he, in a set Speech, (for the People of the Moluccos do not want Rhetorick to perswade) return’d the Governour Thanks for the Supplies he had at several Times sent them of Provisions, and Ammunition. But what we come to desire, said Cachil Cota, is that this Work be now effectually taken in Hand, before the English and Dutch with their Fleets strengthen Ternate, and render it impregnable. We cannot but admire, that whereas the Portuguese Arms obtain such signal Victories, as are those of Calicut; over the Turks, at Diu; over the Egyptians; over the People of Cananor, of Ceylon, the Javas, Sumatra, and other Nations on that Side; and the Spaniards on this, against those of Camboxa, Mindanao, Japan, Cochinchina, and China, yet only we of the Moluccos, who lie amidst the Dominions of one only Monarch, should be left expos’d to the utmost Fury of a Parcel of Rebellious Islands. If the King of Spain allows, or rather commands, we should be reliev’d by the Way of the Philippine Islands, Why is he not obey’d? What does it avail to carry on a cool War, against a hot and watchful Enemy? The Governour answer’d to every Point, and having entertain’d him, and given Hopes of greater Supplies, when he could be secure against the mighty Preparations then making at Japan, he dismiss’d him, with a considerable Recruit of Artillery and Ammunition, and some experienced Soldiers. However these Succours being so much inferior to the Power of the Enemy, and their own Fear, which made them expect much greater, they could not put them out of Care. This made them send Captain Marcos Dias de Febra, Another Embassy. their last Embassador to the Philippines, during the Government of Don Francis Tello. He carry’d Letters from the King and Ruy Gonzalez, to the Governour and Council, which being almost all of them much of the same Purport, we will here insert one of them, directed to Doctor Antony Morga, one of that Council, writ with the King’s own Hand, and in the Portuguese Language.

Embassador returns well satisfy’d. The Embassador return’d to Tydore with the first Monson, at the Beginning of the Year 1602, well pleas’d with the Answer he brought, the Supplies of Provisions and Ammunition he had demanded, and some Soldiers; but much better satisfy’d with the Hopes given him, that as soon as an Opportunity offer’d, that Expedition should be undertaken from Manila for Ternate, with the necessary Preparations, and Force to secure the Success.

K. James of England Writes to the King of Ternate.

At this Time King James of England, writ to Sultan Zayde, of Ternate, desiring him to continue his former Friendship, and that the English might build Colonies and Factories in the Molucco Islands. The Sultan would not grant it, and complain’d in harsh Terms, that England had never assisted him against Portugal; and that so little Account should be there made of the first Alliance concluded by Means of Sir Francis Drake, when King Babu sent the Queen of England a Ring in Token of Confederacy, His Answer. by the said Drake. He said, he could not admit the English, contrary to the solemn Engagement he had made to Prince Maurice and the Dutch Nation, to whom he had made a Promise, that none but they should buy up and lade the Product of his Country. All this appears by the Copy of a Letter in the Portuguese Tongue, found among the King of Ternate’s Papers, when our Men possess’d themselves of his Palace. Where we may observe the perfect Hatred he shows for the Portuguese Government, since he never Names those People without adding the Epithet of Mortal Enemies; and in speaking of the Dutch, My Friends and Deliverers; adding, That he expects their Fleets with great Satisfaction. This Answer he sent King James by Henry Middleton, then Admiral of the English Fleet, on the eighteenth of July, 1605. The Truth of the Fact is, that this King admitted, and invited to his Dominions, and the Product of them, all other Nations, to arm against the Spaniards, and oppose Christianity; and tho’ he then boasted of the Succours he receiv’d, and expected from the Dutch, had he seen the Power of their Fleets and Arms decline, he would have excluded them the Trade. All his Religion and Hopes were subservient to the present Circumstances of Times, and his Faith depended on the Advantages he could make.

The End of the Seventh Book.